In the Heart of Darkness

Chapter 38: Guilt

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The morning sun filtered through the windows as Zara and Ibrahim sat together at breakfast. It was a peaceful moment, but Zara's mind was far from calm. Ever since her encounter with Isabella, she had been on high alert.

She watched Ibrahim more closely now, noting every movement, every conversation, every gesture. But despite her vigilance, she hadn't given Isabella any information yet. The mere thought of betraying Ibrahim weighed heavily on her heart.

After finishing his coffee, Ibrahim stood and leaned over to kiss her gently on the forehead. "I'll be at the office. Don't worry about anything, okay?"

Zara smiled, though the smile didn't reach her eyes. "I'll see you later. Take care."

As Ibrahim left, Zara remained seated, staring at the door long after it closed behind him. She had no energy to go to the university today; her mind was too cluttered with conflicting emotions. The hours stretched out before her, and for the first time in days, she felt utterly lost.

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Later that afternoon, Zara's phone rang. It was an unexpected but welcome call from Sophia. Her heart lifted slightly at the sight of her name on the screen.

"Assalam Alikum, Zara!" Sophia's cheerful voice burst through the speaker. "How are you? I heard from Baba that you weren't feeling well yesterday, so I wanted to check on you."

Zara's chest warmed at Sophia's concern. She smiled softly, leaning back against the couch. "Walikum Assalam, I'm fine now, Sophia. It was just a little tiredness, nothing to worry about."

"You better not overwork yourself," Sophia teased. "I can't have my amazing mom getting sick on me!"

Zara chuckled at her playful tone, the weight in her chest lifting ever so slightly. "I promise I'll take care of myself."

Sophia's laughter rang through the phone, and they fell into an easy conversation. They talked about everything-Sophia's classes, her life in Barcelona, her funny stories and her stupid pranks that she pulled on her teachers made Zara smile. Sophia's energy was infectious, her love for life pouring through every word. It reminded Zara of the innocence she once had, before everything became so complicated.

As they continued talking, another voice chimed in from the background. "Zara, darling, is that you?"

It was Meherbano, Ibrahim's mother, who lived with Sophia in Barcelona. Zara's heart warmed even more. "Assalam Alikum! Yes, Ammi, it's me. How are you?"

"Walikum Assalam, I'm good, my dear. I've been meaning to call you, but you know how forgetful I can be. I hope Ibrahim's taking care of you properly."

Zara laughed lightly, feeling a sense of belonging as she spoke with both Meherbano and Sophia. "He's doing his best, but sometimes I have to remind him to rest too."

The conversation with the two of them stretched on, their laughter and lightheartedness filling the empty spaces inside Zara's heart. For a few hours, she forgot about Isabella, the looming threats, and the fear gnawing at her. Being part of this family, hearing their voices, made her feel a peace she hadn't felt in days.

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Later that evening, Ibrahim returned home, his face worn from the day. Zara could tell he was exhausted and worried. She approached him as he dropped his bag by the door, her hand resting gently on his arm.