The Truest Soldier-Islamic Life Story

Chapter Four

"Um, excuse me," Asima forced herself to say. The guy she addressed didn't hear her, and Asima was starting to feel a few stares her way. She leaned over to tap his shoulder. He instantly opened his eyes, confused. "Sorry to bother," she said, watching him pull off his ear buds, "do you mind if I sit here?" she asked, indicating the empty seat next to him. He shook his head. "Thanks."

Asima smiled. Finally. She had been searching for an empty seat on the plane and not a single person had given her the OK to sit by them. She'd mentally slapped herself for waking up so late and letting her parents try to get her to miss the flight.

But her relief was short lived when her gaze fell on her suitcase and she realized then had no idea where to put it.

Stashing away his phone, the guy offered to help. Nodding, she stepped back, allowing him to place her suitcase above their seats and next to his. As he did so, she couldn't help but notice how muscular he was.

When they both settled in, Asima gave him a sheepish smile.

"Sorry for the trouble." The guy smiled, one side higher than the other. And look at that, he had dimples.

"No problem," he said, taking his phone back out. Asima turned her gaze away, staring at her folded hands. A sigh of relief escaped her lips. Things would be okay.

****

The flight was just a couple hours, and Zaen was relieved to get off. He helped the girl who'd sat next to him take her suitcase down. The crowd jostled him as Zaen made his way out of the plane, occasionally bumping into her. He mumbled an apology, but she seemed too tense to acknowledge it.

When Zaen had reached the cold ground of the airport, he reached for his directions to Fort Drum when he noticed the girl had taken out the very same paper. Impressed, Zaen made a cautious move towards her.

"I see you got accepted, too," he said, glancing down at her paper to read her name. Asima Khadhija. "Asima."

She shrugged, giving him a sidelong glance. "Suprised much?"

Zaen smiled.

"The name's Zaen," he said, "and I'm not surprised, Asima. I'm impressed." He watched her expression; he could tell she was forcing back a smile. "I'm saying your name correctly, right? As-ee-ma?"

"Yeah." She paused. "Ready for boot camp?" Zaen grinned, and glanced around at the grey-green scenery around them.

"Ready as you are."