Haaniyah's POV
I smiled to myself, recalling the moment I saw them dance on the road. Did he know I was watching? My thoughts were interrupted when Mrs. Fahad called out to me.
"Finish playing; shall we move home?" she asked, her tone teasing, as if I were still a child.
"Yeah, sure, aunty," I replied, standing up and preparing to say my goodbyes, as if I’d never see them again.
"It was really fun with you all. I’ve never spent so much time with family. Thank you! Let's meet again, Al Hafeez," I said, watching as Mrs. Fahad and Zainab joined Sauda outside.
"When are you leaving?" Hafsa asked.
"Probably after a week; I have no idea," I answered.
"Oh! So you can join us until you leave! It’s going to be so much fun," she exclaimed, and Sulaiha chimed in.
"Yes, yes! We'll tell Asma aunty to bring you."
I greeted everyone with warmth. Mrs. Ziyard pulled me into a tight hug, her affection reminding me of Mom, and she gave me a peck on the cheek. Then we headed home.
Once inside, I felt a wave of energy from Sauda, who was charming everyone around her. I checked my uncle's messages, but there was no response. I felt a pang of sadness but tried to console myself. He must be busy. I called Dad; he asked if everyone was doing well, and that was it. He loved me, but I could sense that his wife wasn’t keen on having me around.
As I pondered these thoughts, I stepped out into the garden for some fresh air. The night was alive with chatter, especially from Mrs. Ziyard and her family. Hafsa spotted me and waved enthusiastically. I waved back, feeling a warmth in her affection. She called me over, but I gestured that I was tired, though shyness played a part too.
After dinner, I retreated to the room assigned to me. Through the window, I could see a stream running, its gentle sound captivating me. The landscape across was flat but obscured by darkness. I closed the window, slipped into my pajamas, and let myself unwind, savoring the peacefulness of the moment.
YOU ARE READING
HABIBI AND HABIBATI
Romansa"But a mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more." ― Hans Christian Andersen. You see? she laid her burdens down, And he just picked them up, Threw them over his shoulders, Reached for her hand, And boldly walked out, Into t...
