I Chose You💕

XIV.

XIV.
The flight home seemed the longest I've ever had. I badly wanted to see my mother fine and doing well despite my father's assurance. I wanted to hug her and be by her side.

If only I had not been stubborn about settling down.
If only I had stayed in our house, I would have taken care of her.
If only I did not get married, then I would have done something...

No, silly. This is the qadr of Allah. You could have done nothing about it!

Ya Allah, forgive me.

Marriage is a sunnah.
Marriage is a form of worship.
Marriage completes one's deen.
Marriage is beautiful.

And if I haven't gotten married, I wouldn't have fallen in love with Mikhail Ibrahim.

I know that what we have as of the moment is not a garden of flowers. I know that it's not something as colorful as the rainbow. So, why would I fall in love with him? Was it just the idea of loving him that made me love him?

No. Because Allah answered my prayers. I asked him to put love in our marriage. And He did on my part. I only have to be patient with Mikhail's part.

Sabr, Kenzie. For Allah rewards those who are patient.

Maybe Allah SWT is just preparing me and Mikhail for that time when he's fallen in love with me.

So much optimism, I almost chuckled to myself.

As soon as I landed, my phone got a text from him.

Have a safe flight. And let me know if you've gotten there safe.

How many times do I have to tell myself that he's not a hopeless case?

Even though you hurt me, you still care for me even if it's in the slightest bit. Even though you hurt me, I still fall for you.

I smiled as I started to type my reply. Before I could even finish, my phone died. Subhanallah.

I put my phone in my bag. I'd just text him when I get to the hospital. I quickly took a cab anxious to see my family. And I know they're waiting for me too.

I wasted no time as I got off the cab and looked for the room number. As soon as I knocked and said my salaam, I pushed the door open to find my family gathered inside, waiting for me.

We cried as we hugged each other, missing and worried for everyone. Mama was alright, Alhamdulillah, sitting on her bed.

"I'm fine, dear," she said as I hugged her so tight.

"The doctor said she just needs to rest and could be discharged tomorrow or the next day after that," said Papa from behind, squeezing my shoulder.

"Alhamdulillah," I said and hugged her more. The warmth of her hug and the presence of my family were something I really missed. "Alhamdulillah," my voice broke down as I cried in my mother's embrace.

"Kenzie, what's wrong?" Asked Mama, as she let go of me to take a look at me. My cries have only gotten louder.

"Mama, forgive me," I said in between sobs. "Forgive me for leaving you."