Umeed

Chapter 37

Outside the principal’s office, Noor pulled Ayaan and Hoor into a warm embrace. The two children held onto her tightly, their small arms wrapped around her, seeking comfort and reassurance. Shahzain, watching the tender scene, gestured for the driver to head back, as he would be taking them home himself.

Together, the four made their way to the car, and as they settled in, Noor gently recounted everything that had happened to Shahzain. Listening attentively, Shahzain's gaze kept shifting to Ayaan and Hoor, a look of both pride and concern on his face. “Are you two okay?” he asked, his tone filled with warmth.

Ayaan, sitting close to his mother, managed a small nod. Noor, sensing the pride swelling in her heart, smiled softly at him. “You were so brave, my little hero,” she murmured, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.

To ensure their spirits were lifted after such an emotional day, Shahzain suggested a small detour to the hospital first, to treat the children’s minor scratches. Once their injuries were tended to, he drove them to a cozy café nearby. Noor and Shahzain both wanted to ease Ayaan and Hoor’s minds and provide them with a change of scenery, hoping to distract them from the day’s events.

In the café, laughter slowly returned as they shared their favorite treats and played simple games to keep the mood light. Shahzain told a few funny stories from his own childhood, and Noor chimed in with playful exaggerations about her own antics as a little girl. The children giggled, momentarily forgetting their troubles, and Shahzain caught Noor’s eye, sharing a look of relief that they were able to help Ayaan and Hoor regain their smiles.

It was already late by the time they returned home, and they found Faris and Ayesha waiting anxiously in the living room, clearly worried. Noor and Shahzain quickly explained everything that had happened at the school. Faris and Ayesha listened with a mix of concern and admiration, their protective instincts flaring as they heard how bravely Ayaan had stood up for his sister.

By then, Ayaan and Hoor were exhausted, barely keeping their eyes open. Noor took them upstairs, helping them change into comfortable pajamas, and then tucked them into bed, sitting on the edge as they settled under the covers.

As she stroked their hair, Ayaan looked up at her, a shadow of doubt flickering in his eyes. “Mumma,” he asked hesitantly, “are we… bad kids? That aunty said we were… because we fought.”

Hoor’s small voice chimed in, barely above a whisper. “Did we do something wrong?”

Noor’s heart ached at their innocent questions, and she took both of their hands in hers, her voice gentle but resolute. “Oh, my loves, no. You are good children—kind, strong, and brave. That aunty was wrong to say those things. You stood up for each other, and I’m proud of you for that.”

The children’s expressions softened, a hint of relief replacing their worry. Noor continued, her tone patient but firm. “Next time, though, I want you to come to me if someone bothers you. Tell the teacher to call me immediately, all right? Fighting can be dangerous, and I would never want either of you to get hurt.”

Ayaan and Hoor nodded, both murmuring their agreement. Noor’s heart swelled with pride as she gazed down at them, their innocence and loyalty shining through. Leaning down, she kissed each of them on the forehead. “You two did wonderfully today, and I’m so proud to be your mumma.”

With that, Noor tucked them in snugly, watching as their eyelids fluttered closed, finally succumbing to the day’s fatigue. She lingered a moment longer, smoothing Hoor’s hair back and adjusting Ayaan’s blanket, before rising quietly to leave the room.