Mine To Heal

Chapter 34

The soft sunlight filtered through the curtains of the room, casting a warm glow on the heavy curtains that draped the walls of Munira's father's house. Munira lay on the large bed, her hand tightly clutching Hisham's, as he sat beside her. The house was filled with bustling activity—her mother and sisters were setting up the room with pillows and blankets, while her father and brothers made sure everything was in order downstairs.

The atmosphere was both exciting and anxious. Munira had been here for the past few days, as per tradition. It was customary for the pregnant woman to stay at her father's house before the birth. The house was alive with energy, but all Munira could focus on was the throbbing pain in her abdomen.

She took a deep breath, her grip tightening on Hisham's hand. "I can't believe it's happening today."

Hisham's voice was calm but filled with a layer of excitement. "We've waited so long, Munira. Soon, we'll be holding Amir and Laila in our arms. Just breathe, love. You're doing amazing."

Munira smiled weakly, but the wave of pain came again, and she couldn't help the small cry that escaped her lips. She clenched her jaw and tried to steady her breathing. "I know... I just wish they'd come already."

Hisham stroked her hand, his gaze never leaving her face. "It'll be soon. I'm right here, okay? You're not alone."

Just then, the door opened, and her father walked in, a smile on his face, though it quickly disappeared when he saw Munira's distressed expression.

"Munira, my dear," he said gently, sitting on the edge of the bed. "I'm proud of you. You're so strong. I know this is hard, but soon you'll be holding your babies. I'm so happy for you."

"Thanks, Baba," she whispered, squeezing his hand, before turning her attention to Hisham. "I'm scared. What if something goes wrong?"

Hisham kissed her forehead tenderly. "You don't need to be afraid. We've got everything under control. You've been through worse, Munira. This... this is just the beginning of something beautiful."

Her heart swelled at his words, but the moment was interrupted as another contraction came, this one stronger than the last. She gasped, her body tensing as she squeezed Hisham's hand with all her strength.

Her mother came rushing into the room, her face calm despite the tension in the air. "Don't worry, Munira. It's almost time. We'll take care of everything."

Hisham stood up immediately, a worried look in his eyes. "Should we get to the hospital now?" He was eager to get her to the safety of a proper delivery room, but they had to go through all the cultural rites and customs first.

"Let's wait a little longer," her father said, though his voice carried a note of concern as he observed Munira's face. "Soon, the pain will be too much for her to bear. She needs to stay strong for the babies."

Munira let out a shaky breath, her head falling back against the pillow as another contraction washed over her. She gripped Hisham's hand even tighter. "I don't know how much longer I can do this."

Hisham leaned down, his forehead pressing against hers. "You're doing great. Just one more step, love. We're almost there."

But the hours stretched on, pain and exhaustion building up in Munira's body. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the time came. It was time to head to the hospital.