Once Upon A Lifetime

Chapter Forty-one ~ Fahim

Aleena's POV~

"And that concludes the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival!" Lauren spoke into the microphone in front of the many people watching and the cameras broadcasting everything live.

Today was the last day of TIFF. It was finally over. I was supposed to stay for a couple of more weeks- if Taalia and Daiyan's marriage was to happen then. But so far, Taalia hadn't even decided to wake up yet from the surgery. It had been almost two weeks. Everyone was worried, including me.

"Great work today, Aleena!" Lauren smiled as she stepped down from the stage while everyone else was leaving the giant conference room.

"Thanks, Lauren." I said.

"When you headin' back to Florida?" She asked.

"I'm not sure yet, but I don't think it'll be anytime soon. I want to stay here with my friends for a little longer." I replied.

"Hm, I see. Well, I'll be hosting a party for all of the staff and volunteers this year and I would love it if you came. It will be this Saturday." She explained.

"Thanks for the invite, I'll try to make it." I smiled and she grinned back.

"Awesome!" Someone called Lauren so after bidding goodbye, she went her way and I went mine.

I got into my rental car and drove back to my hotel. Tonight was going to be a long night. I had a lot of work to do with finishing up my articles and emailing everyone back at Florida. The hassle was real but I loved it. It also kept my mind off of Taalia for a little bit.

I opened the door to the hotel and stepped inside. I turned on the lights and set my bags and keys down on the counter. I looked at the time and saw that it was almost Asr time and I hadn't gotten the chance to pray Zuhr, so I quickly changed and did wudhu. I was in the middle of my duas when my phone suddenly started ringing. I wanted to ignore it but I was worried it would be someone from Florida so I cut my duas short and answered the call.

"Asalamu Alaikum?"

"Wa Alaikum Asalam." I froze when I heard the voice on the other end.

"Fahim?"

• ~ • ~ • ~ • ~ • ~ • ~ •

I sat in the uncomfortable chair in the waiting room as I waited for Misha and Saqib to show up. My thoughts kept wandering to the phone call I had received earlier today. I closed my eyes and sighed.

It's way too soon.

"Asalamu Alaikum, habibti." I looked up to see Taalia's mom come in. I sat up straighter and forced a smile.

"Wa Alaikum Asalam, Aunty." She took a seat beside me and took a deep breath.

"It seems that things are getting tougher these days, huh?" She said and I nodded. "But they could be worse which I am so grateful for." I nodded again and smiled.

"Alhamdulillah."

"Do you know if your mom will be coming down anytime soon to visit?" She asked and I shrugged my shoulders.

"I don't know Aunty. I have been asking but things have been busier than ever at home." I explained and she nodded.

"Of course. Your father is a busy man, right? Owning such a big business after all."

"Yes. It has extended quiet far over that last few years overseas and across the states. It had gotten farther than Texas, I know that." I said.

"It's a growing business, MashaAllah." She said.