Our Journey

7. One Step Closer

As the week rolled on, the anticipation of the Christmas break filled the air at school. Hidayah found herself buzzing with excitement, the children's energy infectious as they discussed their holiday plans. Aaron noticed her enthusiasm, feeling a warmth in his chest whenever he caught her eye, especially during their shared laughter over the students' antics.

The staff Christmas dinner earlier in the week had been a lively affair, filled with good food and even better company. Hidayah had taken charge of the samosas, determined to share her family's recipe. The kitchen had erupted in chaos as she tried to demonstrate her skills, flour flying everywhere and her sister teasing her for the mishaps. "Honestly, you'd think I was trying to start a food fight!" she had laughed, wiping her hands on her apron.

But amidst the laughter, Hidayah couldn't shake off the emotions that had been brewing inside her. The dinner had been a whirlwind of joy, but as she sat next to Aaron, the way he interacted with everyone, his laughter and kindness, made her heart race in a way that both thrilled and terrified her. She had never been in a relationship before, nor had she had any male friends outside of her family. It felt confusing to have these feelings for someone she respected so deeply.

"What if he just sees me as a friend?" she thought, the uncertainty gnawing at her. In her mind, she told herself to conceal her emotions, to keep things light and friendly. But her heart whispered otherwise, urging her to embrace what she felt. She wanted to know if he felt the same way, yet the fear of rejection held her back.

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Later that evening, after the final prayer, Aaron returned home, his heart still fluttering from the events. He settled into his room and picked up his phone, dialing his friend, Imran. As the line connected, he took a deep breath.

"Hey, man, I've got something to share," Aaron began, his nerves bubbling to the surface. "There's this girl at work, Hidayah. I really like her, but I want to do things the right way, you know? I want to ask her family for permission."

Imran's voice came through the phone, encouraging and supportive. "That's great! It's important to approach it with respect. You want to make sure you're ready to commit, and it sounds like you're serious."

Aaron nodded, even though Imran couldn't see him. "I am. I've been thinking about how the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) approached his relationship with Khadijah (ra). They built a life based on mutual respect and understanding. I want that too."

He paused, contemplating the qualities that drew him to Hidayah—her humility, righteousness, modesty, and infectious laughter. She spoke highly of her family, and he could tell she came from a good background. It made him admire her even more. "I just hope I'm deserving of her," he confessed, his heart racing. "I want to get to know her properly, to learn and grow together. But I need her family's blessing."

"Take your time," Imran advised. "Be sincere in your intentions, and when the moment feels right, just speak from your heart. Trust in Allah and remember that everything happens in His timing."

Aaron felt a surge of determination. He envisioned a future with Hidayah, one filled with joy and the lessons of faith. After their call, he spent some time in prayer, seeking guidance and clarity.

As the week drew to a close, the energy in the school felt charged with excitement for the holidays. On the last day before the break, Aaron found himself standing near Hidayah as they wrapped up their final lesson together.

"Hey, Hidayah, you think the kids will actually remember anything we taught them about Christmas?" Aaron asked, a teasing smile on his face.

Hidayah laughed, folding the end of her hijab to the side of her face.  "Only the parts that involved food! If we mention gingerbread cookies again, they'll be dreaming about them all holiday."

"True," Aaron grinned, leaning against the desk casually. "But hey, at least we've planted some seeds of knowledge. You never know, one of them might grow into a future chef or a baker!"

"Or they'll just become masters of procrastination and spend all their time scrolling through TikTok," she replied, rolling her eyes playfully. "You know how it is."

"Ah, but that's the art of balance! A little bit of fun with a side of learning," he countered, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Besides, I'd trust you to teach them the importance of balance more than anyone else."

Hidayah felt a warmth spread through her at his words. "You really think so?" she asked, her voice softer.

"Definitely! You bring the best energy to the classroom. They adore you." Aaron's tone was genuine, and for a moment, they held each other's gaze, the air thick with unspoken feelings.

"Thanks, Aaron. That means a lot coming from you," she said, her heart fluttering. "You know, the kids are always asking if you'll dress up as Santa again next year. I think you've set a high bar."

"I'll be ready to don the red suit whenever they need me," he laughed. "Just wait until they see my dance moves next time! I'll really be the star of the show."

Hidayah chuckled, the image of Aaron in a Santa suit attempting to dance bringing a bright smile to her face. "Please don't. I'd like to keep my job!"

As the laughter faded, a comfortable silence settled between them, and Aaron felt the moment weigh heavy with significance. He stepped closer, his expression serious. "Hidayah, I really appreciate working with you. You inspire me, and I want to take this connection we have seriously."

She blinked, her heart racing at his sincerity. "Really? I mean, I appreciate that, Aaron."

With a gentle smile, he added, "It's important to me that whatever we have moves in the right direction. I hope you know that."

Caught off guard by the depth of his words, Hidayah felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. Did he really see her as more than just a colleague? Before she could respond, he continued, "I'd love to get to know you better, the right way. Your family means everything, and I want to show them that I respect you."

The moment felt charged with possibilities, and Hidayah's heart soared. This was the connection she had been longing for, yet it felt overwhelming. She had spent so long hiding her feelings, and now they were laid bare in front of him.

As she opened her mouth to speak, she hesitated, unsure of how to articulate the whirlwind of emotions inside her. But Aaron's steady gaze made her feel safe, and in that instant, she realised she didn't want to hide anymore.