My Lover of God

part 31

AUTHOR POV

As they drove to apartment, the city of Seoul coming into view, Arifa and Arif settled into a comfortable silence. Arif glanced over at her and noticed the thoughtful expression on her face.

"Did something happen in Chicago that’s still bothering you?" Arif asked gently, breaking the silence.

Arifa looked up from her thoughts. "It’s not just Chicago. It’s everything—the races, the people, the pressure. It all felt overwhelming at times."

"I can imagine," Arif said sympathetically. "But you handled it with such grace. I’m really proud of how you managed everything."

"Thanks, Arif," Arifa replied, her voice soft. "It’s just... there were moments when I felt so lost. Like I was fighting against my own limits."

"That’s natural," Arif reassured her. "We all have our moments of doubt. But you’ve always been strong, and you have your faith to guide you."Arifa nodded. "Yes, I’ve been leaning on my prayers a lot. They’ve been a source of comfort for me."

"That’s good to hear," Arif said, offering a warm smile. "Faith can be a powerful source of strength. And don’t forget, you have your family and friends who are here for you too."

"I know," Arifa said, smiling back. "I appreciate your support. It means a lot to me."

As the car continued its journey through the bustling city, the siblings enjoyed the quiet companionship, each finding solace in their shared understanding and mutual support.

As they approached their apartment, the city lights casting a soft glow on the streets, Arif glanced over at Arifa again.

"Are you ready to settle back in?" he asked. "I know you’ve had a lot on your plate recently."

Arifa nodded. "Yes, I’m ready. There’s something comforting about being home."

"Well, we’re here for you," Arif said, turning into their driveway. "And we can catch up more once we’re inside. Maybe we can even have a nice family dinner together."

"That sounds perfect," Arifa replied with a hint of relief. "I could use some normalcy and good company."

They parked the car and got out, Arif reaching for Arifa’s suitcase. As they walked into the house, Arif noticed how Arifa seemed to carry herself with a renewed sense of calm, despite the trials she had faced.

Inside, they were greeted by the warm, familiar atmosphere of their home. Arifa took a deep breath, feeling the comfort of being back in her own space.

"Let’s get settled," Arif said, putting the suitcase in her room. "I’ll get started on dinner. Anything special you’d like?"

Arifa thought for a moment. "Maybe something simple and comforting. Just a nice, home-cooked meal."

"Got it," Arif said with a smile. "I’ll make sure it’s just what you need."

As Arif was preparing dinner, he turned to Arifa, who was settling into the living room.

"Hey, jaan," he said casually, "I was thinking—would you like to invite Mona noona over for dinner too? It’s been a while since we all got together, and it might be nice to catch up with her."

Arifa looked up, a thoughtful expression on her face. "That’s a good idea. Mona di would love to see everyone again. Let me give her a call."

She picked up her phone and dialed Mona’s number. After a brief conversation, she hung up with a smile.

"Mona’s excited to come over," Arifa said. "She’ll be here in about an hour."

"Great," Arif replied, nodding. "I’ll make sure everything’s ready by then. It’ll be good to have a full house again."