From Pain to Paradise

CHAPTER 28

The house was abuzz with mourners, their somber faces a testament to the profound loss that had befallen the family. Faris's mother sat, her body racked with sobs.

Hannah stood by her side, attempting to offer what little comfort she could, but her own eyes betrayed her, streaming with tears. Faris sat outside, surrounded by his father's friends and relatives, his gaze vacant, his thoughts a thousand miles away. Sarim sat beside him, his cries piercing the air.

As the funeral drew to a close, the guests began their final farewells. Hannah's eyes scanned the room, her gaze weary from the endless stream of mourners. Her face was pale, her body language screaming exhaustion.

Sarah approached her, concern etched on her face. "Hannah, you look like you're about to collapse. You need to rest."

Hannah shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. "How can I, Sarah api? Not now."

Sarah's expression softened. "I understand, but think of the baby, Hannah. You must take care of yourself. Don't worry about the arrangements; Mama and I will handle everything."

Hannah's eyes sunken, her heart heavy with worry for Faris, she hadn't seen him the whole day. The pungent scent incense sticks wafted through the air, overwhelming her senses.

As she stood there, the room began to blur around her. The faces of the guests became indistinct, their murmurs a distant hum. Sarah's voice cut through the haze.

"Hannah, are you okay?"

But it was too late. The darkness closed in, and Hannah's legs gave way beneath her.

Her mother rushed to her side, along with other women, who swiftly caught her, supporting her limp body.

"Mama, she's fainted!" Sarah cried, concern etched on her face.

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Hannah's eyelids fluttered open, and she met Faris's anxious gaze. His hand grasped hers, warm and reassuring.

"Faris," Hannah whispered, her voice barely audible.

Faris's face relaxed with relief, his eyes brimming with tears. "Thank God you're awake, Hannah. I was so scared," he confessed, his voice trembling.

With his support, Hannah sat up, her body still fragile. Faris helped her settle into the bed, his eyes scanning her face.

"I was so worried about you, Faris," Hannah admitted, her voice laced with concern. "Where were you? I didn't see you all day."

Faris's gaze dropped, his shoulders sagging. "I had to see the guests, take care of the arrangements. I'm sorry for worrying you. How are you feeling?"

Hannah's hands cradled his face, her touch gentle. "You don't have to apologize, Faris. But please, don't hold back. I know you're hurting. Let it out."

Faris's resolve crumbled. He looked down, and tears streamed down his face. His body shook with sobs, the weight of his grief finally unleashed.

"I miss him so much, Hannah," he sobbed. "My father...my guiding light. How can he be gone?"

Hannah enveloped him in a tight hug, her words soft and comforting. "He'll always be with us, Faris. In our hearts, our memories. We'll get through this together."

As Faris cried, he clung to her, seeking solace in her warmth. Hannah held him close, her own tears falling silently.

Eventually, his sobs subsided, and exhaustion took over. His head slipped onto her lap, and he fell asleep.