Until Heaven Unites Us

Chapter Three

The next day, Malik and Faisal meet up at his house and play some video games before Faisal decides to open up about his feelings for Haya. Malik asks Faisal about his intentions and Faisal affirms his love for Haya. He reveals how he fell in love with her since the previous summer. Malik remembered how Faisal had been agitated about making more money and moving out of his parents'.

"No wonder you were acting all suspicious" Malik sighed.

"Yeah. I just didn't want to mess things up. And in the process, I kinda did. I'm sorry, really. I should've done what was right."

"It's alright bro. I thought about it. You are a good guy. And you're my brother. If there's anyone I can truly trust Haya with, it's you" Malik said.

Faisal's heart warmed up hearing that. He then told Malik about his plans to discuss the proposal to Haya with his father, Uthman, the coming Friday after prayer. Malik offered to speak to his own dad but Faisal wanted to man up and do it. He did agree to approach Mr Daud with Malik. They made reservations at a tea parlor and bade each other farewell.

Faisal, filled with joy and hope, made prayers for the success of his plan. He did have a green card with Haya's parents but it didn't guarantee their acceptance and Haya's too. He was even more nervous about Haya's thoughts. She was always nice so, if she wasn't expecting it, he felt like he might seem like a creep who thinks every girl who's nice to him likes him. Shaking away the negative thoughts, he put efforts into his dua and prepared for Friday.

As usual, Malik, Faisal, Mr Daud, Mr Uthman and Faisal's brother, Ali all met at the mosque for Jumma'ah prayers. There were exchanged pleasantries, duas made and greetings passed as they finished listening to the khutba. The women's section housed Haya, Mrs Samira and Faisal's mother and sister, Mrs Hauwa and Yusra. They went home ahead of the men as the men were informed of the meeting.

During the tea time, Mr Uthman and Mr Daud who had an idea of why they were both sought after, made knowing glances at each other. Malik and Faisal who knew they were aware suddenly became shy, emphasis on Faisal who tried his best to calm down and relay his proposal right. Ali was simply happy to be there as he had been wanting to check out the new tea shop.

Soon after their jug of Arabian Tea was served, Faisal got down to business. He thanked Mr Daud for his time and his father for accompanying him. He then tells Mr Daud about his feelings for Haya.

"Uncle, you always talk about how, fulfilling half of one's Deen is important not just for the sake of itself. You said it's loving, protecting and providing for the other half that covers everything. I have come to you with the intentions of fulfilling your words, Uncle as I would be pleased if you'd do me the honors of becoming your son-in-law" Faisal said carefully.

Mr Daud, quite impressed by his words gently accepted him and blessed him. He told Faisal he wasn't averse to the idea and would be happy if he does but that the sole decision was held by Haya.

"If she doesn't accept, I won't force her and you would have to fulfill your duties elsewhere, son," he said.

He told Faisal to give him time to ask her and that he'll get back to him.

That evening, Mr Daud called Haya to join him at the gazebo in their backyard. She brought him cupcakes which she had made.

"My dear, do you want me to get fat? Your mother might not take it lightly if she finds out you want me to go out of shape" he joked, picking one anyway as Haya laughed heartily.

"Well, you could easily say no but then you're digging into the plate like it's your last meal" she joked back making him laugh too.

"How could I resist my daughter's homemade cupcakes that tastes like happiness and love" he said extending his hand for her to hug him and he kissed her forehead when she did. He then gestured her to sit beside him which she did.