How could we?

Chapter 56

Fatima POV:

We landed in my hometown 2 hours later, the familiarity of the place tugging at my heart as soon as the jet touched down. The airport is quiet with just us and the engineers, and in the distance, I see a familiar car. I feel a bit of excitement as I see the sight of my parents standing there, waiting for us. As soon as Mani spots them, he lights up with excitement and bolts toward my mom, practically leaping into her arms.

Mani: Grandma!

His joy is contagious. Mom's face brightens, laughing as she catches him in a warm embrace, showering him with affection.

Tasha: Oh my goodness, you have gotten so tall since the last time I saw you. What are they feeding you?

Mani: I'm a big boy grandma, I make my own food now!

Tasha: You do! Oh you're big boy indeed!

As mom and Mani were having their own moment, dad is more reserved, as usual, but his eyes soften when he sees me. He reaches out to shake Zac's hand, the two men exchanging a respectful nod before turning to me.

James: Welcome home, sweetheart.

Pulling me into a strong hug that makes me feel like a kid again. I hug him back, feeling the familiar comfort of being home.

Fatima: Thanks, Dad. It feels good to be back.

As soon as Mani loosens his grip on Mom, she moves in for her hug with Zac.

Tasha: How are you son?

Zac: I'm good Miss Tasha, how are you?

Tasha: Ah can't complain. (turns to look at Fatima) And look at you! You're filling up nicely! (pulling Fatima into a hug)

Mom is squeezing me tightly in the warmest hug and kissing my cheeks. This has always been our thing ever since I moved for University.

Tasha: My baby girl. How are you sweety?

Fatima: I'm good, no complaints. How are you?

Tasha: Better now that you're here.

James: (mock offense) Ouch!

Tasha: Hush James! I'm talking to my baby!

I laughed at my dad's theatrics.

Our driver helped Zac and dad to pack our luggage into the car and we headed home. On the drive home, Mom and I fall into an easy conversation, catching up like we haven't had the chance to in months. The car moves smoothly along the familiar roads, and I settle into the seat, glancing out the window as the scenery of my hometown flashes by.

Tasha: So, tell me how you've been feeling, honey, how was the doctor's appointment?

Fatima: I feel good for the most part, thank God, but this week has been crazy with fatigue. I swear I could sleep for an entire year given the opportunity.

Tasha: That's to be expected, you're growing twins so you need as much rest as possible.

Fatima: It will be worth it in the end, I can't wait until they're here!

Tasha: I'm so proud of you baby, and you look good!

Fatima: Thanks mom, and the doctor's appointment went great. Everything is good and Zac has been so great. I'm really in a good space!

Tasha: I can tell.

She says, looking toward Zac who is in the passenger seat with dad.

Tasha: And how's Mani been with it all?