CHAPTER 18

9 2 0
                                    

Haaniyah's POV

I woke up to the gentle sound of a stream and birds chirping, a cool breeze dancing through the louvres. Happiness washed over me as I realized I didn’t have to wake up to my aunt’s face. Thoughts began to swirl in my mind: “Oh no, I need to cook!” But then I paused, a smile creeping onto my face. “Wait, I’m not at home. Let me savor this moment!” For the first time, I was embracing a slow morning.

After refreshing myself and performing wudhu, I prayed Fajr, feeling a deep gratitude for this beautiful day. I pulled my suitcase close, eager to find something special to wear.

Excitement bubbled within me as I rummaged through my clothes. I pulled out a pair of white pants and a long pink shirt, pairing it with a delicate white shawl. Dressed and feeling fresh, I applied moisturizer, sunscreen, and a hint of blush, styling my hijab with a charming pink clip. A spritz of subtle perfume completed my look—one that only a hug could unveil. I was ready to embrace the day.

As the sun began to rise, casting a golden glow, I walked downstairs and spotted my grandpa reciting the Quran, his voice a soothing melody. The maid was already bustling about, preparing breakfast.

Assalamualaikum, Grandpa! Assalamualaikum, Aunty,” I greeted, my voice cheerful.

Waalaikum assalam, Haaniyah,” Uncle responded warmly, his smile brightening the room.

“Waalaikum assalam, daughter. Your tea is ready,” the maid called, her tone inviting.

JazakAllah khair,” I thanked her, pulling out a chair to sit. I noticed she had already started cooking and offered to help, but she gently declined. So, I took my tea outside, sinking into a garden chair. The view was breathtaking, the air filled with the aroma of fresh tea, and I felt like a character from a storybook.

“Mashallah, Allah is so great,” I thought. Amidst the busyness of life, my heart needed this peace.

As I slowly sipped my tea, enjoying each moment, I saw Umair jogging down the road.

Assalamualaikum, Miss Haaniyah!” he called out teasingly, a smile on his face as he approached me.

Waalaikum assalam,” I replied, smiling back.

“Having your tea?” he asked.

Yes, why don’t you join?” I invited.

Maybe some other day,” he answered.

Just then, Grandpa walked out.

Assalamualaikum, Umair,” he greeted.

Waalaikum assalam, Uncle,” Umair replied as he entered the garden, pushing open the gate.

No, jazakAllah khair, Uncle. Maybe some other day. I was on a morning jog,” Umair said, looking at us both. “Why don’t you join me?”

“Oh wow, that’s a good idea! I can only walk, but while Aunt prepares breakfast, I can take you for a walk and show you around,” Grandpa said excitedly.

Me?” I asked, confirming whether he was calling me.

Yes, you too! Come, I have a nice place to show you,” he encouraged.

Okay, give me a second!” I rushed inside to grab my sandals and wash my tea cup.

When I returned, Uncle was already in his shoes, ready to go.

We followed him out. “So, are you both from the same school?” Grandpa asked.

“Yes, but in different sections,” Umair replied

I nodded in agreement.

Haaniyah, how did you do in your last grades?” Umair asked.

“I scored 3 A’s. How about you?” I inquired.

Wow, super extraordinary student! I scored 1 A and 2 B’s,” he replied. He was so tall that I had to lift my head to meet his gaze. i was sure to lower my eyes for the sake of Allah.

As we walked together, the morning air filled with laughter and the promise of new adventures, I knew this was a day I would cherish forever.

He mentioned that Farhan and Tiny were both fast asleep again after Fajr, exhausted from their travels.
Umair's eyes sparkled as he shared his love for adventure. "I absolutely love to travel," he said, enthusiasm in his voice.

He began to recount his experiences, detailing the many places he had visited and the breathtaking hikes he had embarked on.

As he spoke, he pulled out his phone and showed us a collection of photos. Each image was a window into his adventures—stunning mountain vistas, serene lakes, and vibrant sunsets. “This was from my hike in the Himalayas,” he said, pointing to a breathtaking shot of snow-capped peaks. “And here’s a sunset I caught in Bali. It was magical!”

Listening to him, I felt a sense of wanderlust stirring within me, imagining the beauty of those places and the thrill of exploring the world.

Just then, we arrived at a stunning stream, only a ten-minute walk from Grandpa’s home. Umair immediately began capturing photos, and I joined in, eager to preserve the beauty around us. The place was a paradise of greenery, with lush trees and vibrant flowers. A cow leisurely grazed on the grass nearby, and a squirrel scampered past me, adding to the lively scene. The air was filled with the cheerful chirping of birds, and the water in the stream was crystal clear. I dipped my hand into it, and the chill felt refreshing against my skin.

This is a perfect picnic spot! Grandpa, how about we plan a picnic tomorrow? We could bring everything here and spend some quality time together,” I suggested, excitement bubbling inside me.

That’s a great idea! We should invite Mr. Fahad’s family too,” Grandpa replied, nodding enthusiastically.

From where he sat on the grass, trying to capture a fluttering butterfly, Umair looked up and laughed, “So, aren’t we invited too?”

His playful tone made me smile.

just then Umairs phone started ringing

i heard him talk " hello yes am nearby,ill be soon there

Just then, Umair's phone began to ring, cutting through the serene atmosphere. He answered, his voice cheerful but tinged with a hint of nervousness. “Hello? Yes, I’m nearby. I’ll be there soon.”

You've reached the end of published parts.

⏰ Last updated: Oct 22 ⏰

Add this story to your Library to get notified about new parts!

HABIBI AND HABIBATIWhere stories live. Discover now