𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆

Chapter 8

In the afternoon, Zahra and Hisham met at a quiet café.

Zahra sipped her tea.

"You know, Hisham.. I've been thinking a lot about what it means to truly trust someone. I mean, we've built a strong foundation, but marriage is a lifetime commitment."

Hisham, who was stirring his coffee, nodded in agreement.

"I've been thinking about that too.."

"Hisham, I feel like we're still learning how to be fully open with each other. I don't want to just share the goods part of myself—I want you to see the parts I'm not so proud of, the parts I'm still working on.."

"Zahra, I feel the same way... I've made mistakes in the past, and I've had moments of doubt and weakness. But I think what's important is that we're willing to grow together.. We'll both make mistakes along the way, but as long as we keep communicating and supporting each other.. I believe we'll be okay.."

As their conversation deepened, Hisham leaned back in his chair.

"There's something I've been meaning to talk to you about, Zahra. It's something from my past that I haven't shared with you yet. I should be honest with you.."

"You can tell me anything, Hisham.. I want to know everything about you—the good and the bad."

Hisham took a deep breath before speaking.

"Before I became more serious about my faith, I wasn't always the person I am now. I made some poor choices in my early twenties, especially when it came to my relationships. I wasn't as responsible or considerate as I should've been. I let people down, and for a while.. I lost sight of who I wanted to be.. I prayed and I tried to be a better person. But I want you to know this because I don't want to hide anything from you. I want you to trust that I'm not afraid to be honest, even if it makes me vulnerable.."

Zahra took a moment to process his words.

"Hisham, thank you for telling me. I know it wasn't easy, but I'm glad you shared it with me. We have all things in our past that we're not proud of, but what matters is who you are now and the effort you've made to grow. I trust you because you've shown me that you're willing to be open and honest. And that means everything.."

"I appreciate that, Zahra.. I want us to build or marriage on transparency, even when it's difficult. I don't want there to be any secrets between us.."

"I agree.. and I promise to do the same. I want you to know that I'm here for you, no matter what.."