Mr. Al-Arab and I is a poignant exploration of love's unpredictable nature, the power of reconciliation, and the growth that arises from even the most difficult relationships. It reveals that sometimes, the most challenging bonds can evolve into the deepest connections, and that true love involves not only learning to love another person, but also learning to love oneself.
The novel centers on Manal and Bashir,despite a history of constant bickering and stark differences, are thrust together in an arranged marriage. Their relationship begins as a clash of personalities, with every interaction marked by tension and conflict.
Initially, their marriage is a compromise-a union forged out of necessity, rather than affection. Bashir, driven by his desire to protect and provide for his daughter whose mother has been taken by the cold hands of death claims deep love for Manal. What starts as a facade gradually evolves into something real. Over time, as they navigate the trials of marriage, Bashir's feelings for Manal grow, and the two begin to discover a deep, unexpected connection.
But love does not come easily. The path to happiness is fraught with challenges: cultural expectations, family pressures, differing customs and values, and the personal insecurities they each must confront. As the initial thrill of their union fades, they find themselves facing the complexities of everyday life, and their relationship once again feels like an emotional battleground.
In the end, Mr. Al-Arab and I is a journey of personal growth, forgiveness, and the profound realization that sometimes, love emerges where we least expect it-through conflict, vulnerability, and the willingness to evolve together.
"Listen to me Qurratul Ayn, before you go, I want to know; did I ever offend you? Is my love for you too little?" I can feel his hand hovering over mine. He wants to hold it, but he knows better than to do that.
"Please, I don't want to do this now. My flight is in thirty minutes." I can feel the tears wetting my Niqab.
"No! I want to know. Where did I go wrong? Was it money? I didn't feed you well? I didn't clothe you? My love wasn't enough for you? I need to know, all those years! You're seriously willing to throw them away like they were nothing?" A sob breaks out but I manage to hide it behind a cough. I take a silent deep breath and turn, my Niqab swaying and making a whip sound.
"It's not like, they really were nothing! Look, I don't have it in me to explain myself. You said you'd give me whatever I want? Then leave me be. I never loved you okay! I never did, it was all a sham, a facade!" His hand that was looming over mine falls limp beside him and he staggers back.
"You're lying." He laughs. It's as if he's trying to convince himself. I scoff.
"You think so? Well take a look at this." His eyes fill with tears and he takes one of his hands and place it on his mouth. He can't believe that it's actually true.
"Okay, Fa'iza." My heart breaks. He never calls me that, ever.
"I know something is wrong, and wallahi I'm going to find it out and bring you back to my house in six months. I promise." I feel my heart squeeze knowing his promise can never come to pass, ever. Death is nearing me so nothing can be done. Absolutely nothing.
*
Ten years of loving, doting over each other and marriage, Fa'iza upped and suddenly said she wanted out of the marriage. After months of persuasion and blackmail, Bello let her go, but before she left, he made a promise. Would he be able to fulfill this promise?
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