Chapter 21

The Adhan being called on his phone woke him up. He turned the alarm off and sat down feeling extremely sleepy. He looked to the right. A smile reached his lips as he looked at her and thought of the amazing and best night they had together. He felt proud of her, the love he had for her doubled up. She gave him her pride, what she valued more than anything. She gave him that and he promised to love her unconditionally and take care of her.

He sauntered into the bathroom and took a warm bath. He wrapped and towel around his waist and came out. Slowly, he tapped her on the shoulder. "Ameenah wake up, it's almost time for subh prayer." She heard him say. She tiredly opened her eyes. He placed his hand on her forehead. He quickly removed it. His face expression changed. "What's wrong? Your body is really hot." She looked at his face expression, looked really worried. "I think it's fever," her voice cracking as she talked.

He didn't say anything further. He took her to the bathroom and bathed her. He helped her to perform ghusl before taking her back into the room. He carefully placed her on the sofa. She watched him as he changed the bedsheet. He helped her back on the bed before helping her with what to wear. He went to the mosque to pray while she prayed at home.

Everywhere in her body ached especially between her legs. As if something was there torturing her. Slowly she tried to get up but quickly realized how futile it was when she had to bite her lip to keep from crying out. Sharp pain lanced between her legs and she felt water between her legs. it felt like her whole body had been beaten and every movement caused some muscle or bone to ache. She raised her dress up to see blood rolling. "Innalillahi wainna ilaihir rajiun." She pushed back the wails. She felt light headed. She fight with her eyes to stay open but couldn't hold them. She felt her body giving in till she ran into the darkness.

After he prayed, he stayed and made Du'a for his wife and bless their marriage. After he was done, he stood to leave for his house. He entered and locked the door. He sauntered into the kitchen to make some tea for her before getting some drugs for her. He entered the room to see a lifeless Ameenah in pool of blood. He kept the mug on the side drawer and rushed to her. "Ameenah, Ameenah!" He placed her on his laps trying to wake her up but she wasn't moving an inch.

She rushed her to the hospital and she was taken into the emergency. He paced down the hallway thinking, what happened? What did he do wrong? Why was she bleeding?

After an hour, the doctor came out of the ER. He scrambled up and rushed to him. He placed a hand on Bashir's shoulder. "Don't worry she's fine. She wasn't lubricated enough which caused a tear and swelling. But she will be up in few hours," the doctor explained. He heaved a sigh. He was so impatient last night, too eager to feel his wife now he had caused her a lot of pain.

She was taken out of the theater and wheeled into a room. After they were done, the nurse informed him he could go in and see his wife. He slowly opened the door and entered. She was sleeping. Her face looked tired. He sat down on the bed beside her and took her cold hand. "I'm so sorry for hurting you," he muttered and kissed her hand. He kept staring at her face, she was so beautiful. Her plump pink lips. Full shaped brows, long lashes, her dark skin fitted her. He smiled staring at her.

He informed the nurse to stay with her while he went home to inform his mother because he didn't come along with his phone. He met her in the kitchen throwing orders here and there. "Bashir? What are you doing here? What's wrong? I wanted to send your breakfast in an hour or two."

"Mama lets go to the living room," he said when the maids attention went back to them. "What's wrong? Something happened to Ameenah?" She asked the moment the got into her living room. "Mama she's in the hospital." He blurted out. "But she's fine now. She's sleeping." He added. "SubahanAllah. What happened?" He couldn't hide anything from his mother. He removed the shyness and told her what happened.

"Let me finish up with the breakfast. Just go back and be with her. I'll tag along as soon as I'm done." She informede. He only nodded and stood up. He took his phone and hers and took some clothes she might need before going back to the hospital.

She was still sleeping even when he got back. Half an hour later Mama came to the hospital. He led her to the room. The moment they enter their eyes met. She looked at him like he had grown to heads. "Sannu Ameenah," mama interrupted their stare contest. She moved closer to her. Safwana came in with a basket. "How are you feeling now?" She asked. Ameenah smiled and nodded. He called the doctor to check up on her. After the check up, he assured them she'll be discharged in two hours.

"You have to eat something now. What would you like? I made bacon burgers, some cookie sandwich and Cheese and Bacon Potato Bake."

"Some cookie sandwich and potato bake will be okay," she said politely. Safwana served her what she asked for while mama served her some cold ice tea. After she was done eating, he mama helped her to take a warm bath. He wanted to but Ameenah wouldn't allow him too. The embarrassment she was feeling is more than enough.

She was discharged an hour later and they went back home right after the doctor gave him strict warnings to allow her to have a lot of rest.

Xx

"Aunty I'm sure. I'm okay now." She assured. "Ameenah even your voice tells you're not feeling well. How are you feeling now please?" She pulled a long face. "Maa I'm fine seriously..." she whined. "Okay, okay I believe you. Shifakallah my girl." After few minutes of talking they ended the call.

It had already been two days, they were enjoying each other's company. He hugged her tighter and kissed her head. "I love you so much Ameenah," he whispered and kissed her head again. She snuggled up more enjoying his warmth. "Hmm, when will I ever get a reply? I've said it like a hundred times now." He smirked. "I want to take a nap," she said instead. He chuckled, "you are good at changing subjects."

"Okay you can sleep. I'm going out to see mama and baba," he let go of her, getting off the bed. She stared at him as he shoved his phone and car keys in his pocket. "Why are you taking your car keys with you?" She questioned. He leaned in and and kissed her softly on the lips. "I might go out to somewhere." He whispered and pecked her again. She giggled, "don't stay long please. I don't know if I'll be able to sleep." She said.

He stood up, "don't worry baby I'll be back immediately I pray Asr, Insha Allah." He said and gave her another peck before leaving. The moment she closed her eyes to sleep, her phone shrilled. She groaned picking it up. "Boo, how are you feeling now?" She asked. "Aisha. I'm fine now Alhamdulillah. I'm really okay now. How's the baby, how are you?" She replied. "This baby is making me to become a glutton seriously." She sighed. Ameenah chuckled, "isn't that how pregnant women naturally are? Eating all the time, craving for the most insane stuff, midnight cravings, mood swings and all."

"Ameenah you'll understand all of that when you get pregnant. Carrying a life is not easy." She blabbered. "Speaking of that, have you scanned?" She asked. "Crazy girl we can't scan for the gender yet till after two months." She replied. "Don't blame me, I don't know anything about pregnancy." She defended. "You better learn madam cause In just a month or two you'll join the queue."

"Omg God Aisha you're really annoying. In fact, bye bye. I'm going to sleep." She ended the call. Aisha evilly laughed till she was satisfied. Ameenah hissed and turned to the other side. Few minutes, she was fast asleep.

*an hour later*

'I told you we were going to meet didn't I?" Malika held the knife tighter slowly moving towards Ameenah. "You refused to leave him for me. You went ahead and married him right? Well too bad you're going to die today!" She let out a loud, annoying laughter. "Please.... don't kill me please.... please I'm carrying a child in me. Don't kill an innocent baby...." she wailed kneeling down to beg her. "Perfect! More reason to kill you! You're pregnant for him!! I'm ending you today...." she screamed and stabbed the knife on her chest.'

"Innalillahi wa'inna ilaihir rajiun!" She woke up panting hard. "Ameenah, calm down it's just a bad dream." He held both her shoulders. "She... she stabbed me. She's going to kill me." She breathed hard. Tears gushing out. "Who? Who's that?" He asked panicking. "Malika." She lamented. "I'm scared. She's coming."

"Hey, hey babes. She's not coming. She can't ever lay a hand on you. I'm here for you. I promise you I'll protect you even if it means giving out my life. I won't allow her to hurt you, okay?" She slowly nodded. He wiped away her tears. "Now get up and pray. It's already past Asr."

He watched her as she entered the bathroom and came out after performing ablution. He was still there when she finished praying and came back to bed. He motioned her to come close so he'd hug her. She laid her head down on his chest while he wrapped his arm around her. "Nothing is going to happen Insha Allah," he assured.

TWENTY TWO

"Just find a way to kidnap her." She said through the phone. "You know you haven't paid me my balance for the work I did for you before." He reminded her. "Shut the fuck up and do what I ask you to! If you mess things up I'm not going to pay you anything. Foolish guy!"

"I have had enough of your bullshit. I have been helping you and been patient for as long as I can remember. You didn't pay me what we agreed on but you still have the guts to insult me. Keh kin sanni kuwa? You will regret insulting me..." he cut the call. She messed with the wrong thug.

Right then he gathered his gang and headed to Bashir's residence. He was just coming back from a bouquet shop. He bought flowers for his wife. He met them all standing at the gate having an argument with the securities. He alight from the car and walked to them. "What's causing all this commotion?" Arms in his kaftaan pocket as he talked. "Sir this men are trying to break into the house," one of the securities holding a gun explained. "That's not true. I came to tell you something, your wife is in danger and I can help you with that." Their boss talked.

"What do you mean by she's in danger?" He questioned. "Malika." He wasn't surprised when he mentioned her name. "What about her? What's she up to?"

"She was the one that sent us to kill your ex fiancée Yasmeen. I'm regretting all my acts. I've killed countless people and got away with it. Now I'm done. I'm turning myself in but I'm not allowing malika to run free. She is attempting to kill your wife now. It's better you get her arrested."

His heart shattered into pieces when he heard the name Yasmeen. Killed. How didn't he knew it was malika? "Innalillahi wa'inna ilaihir rajiun." He exclaimed. He hurriedly walked into the house to check on Ameenah. He met her in the living room watching TV. She scrambled up, "what's wrong? Are you okay?" She asked. He took her face in his arms. "Baby are you okay? How are you feeling? Hope no one intruded." He bombarded her with questions. "I'm fine. What's happening?" She asked holding his wrists while he was still holding her face.

He let go of her and shoved his hand in his pocket to get his phone. After few seconds he was already on a call with the DPO to get malika captured. "Baby I found out what malika did. She is trying to kill you but I'll take care of that. Baby you'll be fine. I'll be back as soon as I'm done." He said and hurriedly walked out to meet them at her house. Even when he was out the guys have already left.

As soon as he got to the house they were already waiting for him outside. He asked them to wait while he went in to get her. He rapidly knocked on the door. Her maid opened the door. "Go tell your boss she has a visitor. Tell her it's Bashir," he said. He knew the moment she hears his name she'll come out. Right on cue she came out almost running.

"Bashir? You came. Omg, come... come in please," she sounded surprised and excited. "No need..." he cut her short. "You have visitors outside," he informed, smiling as if nothing was wrong. "Who? Who are they?" She sounded nervous. She swallowed hard. "No need for questions. Let's go, you're wasting their time."

She hesitated before following him. The moment she stepped outside the gate, the female police grabbed her putting a handcuff on her, "you're under arrest for murder and attempted murder, you have the right to remain silent." She was shocked, couldn't say a word. "You.... you betrayed me!!" A tear slipped down her cheek. "No malika you betrayed yourself. Alhamdulillah now I don't have to deal with your problems anymore. Just know where your life is heading for murdering someone just to get me. Malika I hate you with all my life. You're so disgusting. I'll make sure you get punished for what you did."

The police took her away while he followed them suit. After everything was done and malika would be taken to court in two weeks, he left. He grabbed the bouquet at the back seat. He stepped out of the car and headed in. She wasn't in the living room. He met her in the kitchen, making some Oreo Stuffed Mint Chocolate Brownies. He hugged her from behind and kissed her neck. "Beautiful flowers for my beautiful wife." He handed the bouquet to her. "Aww, that's so sweet.”She cooed. He let go of her while she kept the flowers in a vase And put some water in to keep them alive. "I made some brownies for you," she said excitedly. "Really, come feed me." He grinned.

"You have hands that work perfectly," she smirked standing in front of him while he sat on the stool. He pulled her closer and wrapped his hand around her waist. "Yes I just want my wife to feed me," he murmured. Their faces inches away. She chuckled looking at the puppy face he's making. She took a brownie and fed him. "This is so amazing, who taught you this?" He asked taking another bite. "Aisha, when I was here with her." She replied. "This is really yummy. But I shouldn't take too much chocolate." He informed. "Why?" She asked wrapping her arms around his neck. "It will affect my performance in bed. And you don't want that right?" He whispered and planted a soft kiss on her lips.

She blushed, hiding her face in his neck. "I really miss you so much. I can't wait for you to heal." He whispered again. "Who told you I haven't healed?" She asked still hiding her face. "Babes," He said raising up her head. "The doctor warned me to allow you to rest for at least a week and it's been barely three days now. So I'll wait till you've healed completely." She smiled and nodded, feeling his love swimming through her veins. "I love you so much Ameenah. I'm so glad I met you."

She grinned. "Me too."

"About your school. You might transfer to Baze University, Uhmm after you finish this semester." He informed. "I'll get to join Aisha. The same course." She squealed making him to chuckle. "I feel so at ease when you're happy seriously."

"Tell you what? Adam and I are opening a new branch in five months at Toronto. So I don't think you transferring to Baze University will be necessary because we're all moving there." He gave her the big news.

Her mouth parted thinking words would come out but they ran away. She placed both her hands on her mouth. "Are you excited?" He asked grinning. She nodded. "I'm so happy for you..." she finally talked. "That's amazing," she added. "You're my success honey, my everything. With you by my side I know I'll be successful." He engulfed her in a hug.

“Babes, I don't know what would I do without you in my life. Your eyes, your smile and the way you look at me makes me feel like I am living a sweet dream. I don't want to even imagine living a single moment without you. I'm so much in love with you my dearest wife. May Allah bless you Habibty.” He cupped her face in his palms and planted soft kisses on her forehead. He kissed her softly on the lips. “I will never get tired of telling you how much I love you.” He whispered.

TWENTY THREE

Four months later, Ameenah was done with her first semester exams and was home already. She had visited her parents before finally coming back to Abuja. They had only a month before they move to Toronto. Bashir had travelled there to check up on the company.

It was a beautiful Saturday morning when Maama called to check up on her Daughter in law and two months old unborn child. “How are you feeling now my dear?” Maama asked. “I am feeling much better now Maama. It’s just that I still throw up and have morning sickness,” she answered. “May Allah grant you shifa. I’ve talked with your husband, he will be back in a week but before that, you’re coming back to my house and stay before he comes back.”

“Insha Allah I’ll send in Safwana to help you with your suitcase when you’re ready.” Maama added. After talking a little bit more, they bade each other goodbye. She kept the phone on the side drawer, hoping to get some sleep before noon. Her phone decided to interrupt her.

His handsome face popped up on the screen. “Hey babes,” he said smiling brightly at her. “Hey, Good Morning.” She smiled back, slowly blinking. “How are you? And how’s our baby?” He asked. She smiled sheepishly before saying, “all good Alhamdulillah. How’s everything there?”

“Yeah well just as planned Alhamdulillah. Everything good.” He replied. “You look pale. Did I wake you up?” He asked, eyes widened. “No, no I was about sleeping,” she replied. “It’s 5am in the morning here,” he said looking at the wall clock. “You should get enough rest before heading to maamas’.” She smiled and nodded. “And a quick reminder; I love you so much and I’ll never love you less even when the baby comes. You know, especially when it’s a girl, don’t get jealous of our relationship,” he smirked. “Ha-ha. We both know she’ll be much more closer to her Mamie.” She smirked too. “We shall see. Game on babes.” He laughed. “But seriously I love you and..... I miss you so badly. I was over the moon when I heard about the great news. I really can’t wait to see you again. Please take care of yourself for me, okay?”

She nodded smiling, “okay, I promise I will.”

Xx

“Well of course Ya Bashir has to name this girl after me, if it’s a girl. If it’s a boy I was thinking.... Amaan; the most lovable or Ma’bood; adored oh oh or maybe....”

“Safwana get out of this place!” Maama interrupted her. “But Maaa..... I was just suggesting some names for her....” she whined. “You’re making a hell lot of noise. Can’t you see you’re disturbing her? Don’t allow me to use my shoe on your head....” Maama threatened to remove her shoe and throw it to her.

“No need Ma, I’ll keep shut,” safwana gave up. “We’ll continue when she’s gone,” she whispered to Ameenah, making her to chuckle. Just few minutes later, the maid came in with a bowl of fruit salad for Ameenah. She haven’t been eating much ever since she got pregnant. Maama had to push her to eat. Even after eating, she threw up everything afterwards.

Maama took her to her room. “Ameenah, are you sure you take the drugs they prescribed for you?” Mama asked curiously. Ameenah was quiet for a while. She felt guilty. “Oh ni Amina. Oya, where are the drugs? Give them to me,” Maama said. Ameenah shyly headed it to her from her handbag. “Ameenah meyasa baki sha? Why don’t you like taking your drugs? How can you stop throwing up or having morning sickness when you don’t take your medication?” Maama ranted bringing out a bottle of water from her fridge. “No Maama I started taking them but couldn’t continue because of the smell, I don’t like it.” She made a face. Maama laughed a bit.

After she had taken the drugs, she had a nap for few hours before Asr prayers. She had another meal before they went out to the garden with safwana to get some fresh air.

“You know.... we are really lucky to have you as our In-law. You’re so nice, like I have never met someone that smiles this much. Even at your darkest days, you still mask it with a smile which scares the sadness away.” Ameenah couldn’t help but smile. “I am more lucky to have you wonderful people as my In-laws. I never thought I’d get into a family who would take me as one of them.” She swallowed hard remembering the past. Her past with Aamir. She had seen him once at Aishas’. She didn’t regret seeing him because she was over him. She was married and happy. She’s carrying his child, the child of the man she loved the most.

She exhaled touching her invisible baby bump. “Do you feel anything when you touch your tummy? Can you feel the baby already?” Safwana asked looking at her tummy and face. Ameenah chuckled, “no Saf, not yet. But the baby bump will start showing in just few months.”

“Well it’s not like you’ll be here. I’m still bumped about you guys leaving. And I know when you leave, you won’t come back till you give birth,” she let out a shaky breath. Ameenah gave her a side hug, “I’m so much going to miss you too. I’ll FaceTime you every chance I get. I promise you I’ll show you the baby bump when it starts showing, okay?” Safwana smiled and nodded.

They continued talking about the baby and everything till it was almost Maghrib prayer time.

Xx

“Oh yes I’m taking you out on a date. Your husband will be back tomorrow morning and I wouldn’t get to spend time with you so we are definitely going out today. We have to have some fun.” Safwana squealed for the forth time. “Okay okay, Saf. We will go out but before that. You’ll be the one to inform your brother,” Ameenah smirked. “Seriously? You know if I ask him he’s defs going to say no to me. Please call him. He listens to you more. Please please please please please....”

“Okay, okay madam. I’ll call him now.” She said picking up her phone to call him. After three rings, he picked up. “Hey habibty! How are you?” He asked. “All good. How’s work?”

“Work Alhamdulillah. Can’t wait to see you tomorrow.” He smiled. “Me too,” she smiled sheepishly. “Uhm... I was wondering if I could go out with.... Saf....”

“You’re not going anywhere...” He cuts her off. “Oh come on please don’t say that. You didn’t even let me finish.”

He laughed a bit. “Okay finish what you were saying.” She sighed feeling annoyed. “Can I please go get some ice cream with Safwana?” She asked. “No,” he replied. “Please! Just for today. Please. I promise I’ll take good care of the baby....”

“I care more about the mother...” he interrupted. “Okay I promise I’ll take care of myself In sha Allah I’ll be careful. Can I go please? We won’t stay long.” After much pleading and whining, he finally agreed.

She got dressed in an A shape iris blue gown with a Teal stoned chiffon. She applied some lipgloss and kohl. Safwana came into the room dressed up in a maroon high skirt and a white long sleeve shirt with a black scarf. “You look cute.” Safwana complimented. “You look like you’re going on a date with a guy.” Safwana laughed, “you know how to crack jokes. Now Mrs Bashir Yahya, shall we? I’ve already informed Maama. The driver is waiting for us.

He took them to Cold Stone. They entered and ordered their ice cream. They settled down to wait a bit. Ameenah sat opposite Safwana. “Why don’t you want to have a boyfriend?” Safwana wasn’t expecting such question. “Why don’t I want to have a..... boyfriend?” She chuckled nervously. Ameenah laughed a bit, “yes that’s what I said. What’s there? Tell me.”

“I’ve never dated before and I’m not interested. Just not... now. I mean I will but till I start with school.” She explained nervously. “Where are you planning on going?” She asked. “I wanted going to Harvard but ya Bashir being an overprotective brother, he said no and baba agreed with him. So I applied Baze University.” She slumped down her shoulders. “In sha Allah that’s the best,” Ameenah held her hand.

Soon they got their ice cream and munched in. Bashir called exactly every fifteen minutes asking when they would go back home. They couldn’t finish with their girls-day-out because of his calls. They gave up and went back home. Safwana wasn’t down at all when Ameenah promised they’ll go out another day before they leave the following month.

TWENTY FOUR

Toronto, Ontario.

DE GRASSI STREET.

February 5th, 2017.

1:34PM.

She unpacked the last piece of her kitchen. She gave herself a thumbs up. She turned to leave the kitchen when he sauntered in. "Precious Gem," He said wrapping his arms around her neck while she wrapped her arms around his waist. He kissed her on the lips, "you look really tired." He pecked her again. "I'm going to take a shower now and take a nap," she hugged his torso. He kissed her head, "Cmon let's go. You need all the rest you can get."

She had her shower and slipped into a soft baggy shirt and shorts. She hopped into their bed. "You'll start going for check up by tomorrow," He announced while doing some work with his laptop. "In sha Allah. Wake me up when it's time for Asr." She said lazily.

Xx

"Ameenah you have to eat something. You haven't eaten all day. Now what says the time," he looked at their room wall clock. "12:05Pm, please you have to eat something." She had been in bed all day. Having mood swings, feeling nausea, morning sickness, stomach ache.... "I really don't have any appetite. My tummy hurts, I just want sleep," she said crying her eyes out. "I'm sorry the baby is stressing you out. The doctor said you have to be eating regularly. Aisha is on her way now, okay?" He kissed her cheek. Just then he heard the door bell.

He rushed to the door and opened the door for her. "Good afternoon. Where's she?" Aisha came in, holding a basket. Her baby bump clearly visible. "She's upstairs. Let's go," he said and led the way. They entered the room. Ameenah was still whimpering.

Aisha sat at the edge of the bed. "Ameenah," she placed her hand on Ameenah's head. "I made some Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Bites and Oreo Truffle Cheesecake. What would you like to eat?"

She looked at her best friend then husband. He looked really gloomy and tired from all her wails last night. She never allowed him to sleep, they had to rush to the hospital early in the morning. "I'll have the chicken bites and some orange juice." She saw when he smiled. "I'll get it for you," he said and headed to the kitchen.

Aisha served her some chicken bites while Bashir came back with what she requested. She ate some of it and also the Oreo Truffle Cheesecake. She finally had some strength. She took her drugs and had another bath. She prayed before taking a nap with a heating pad on her tummy.

Bashir couldn't stop thanking Aisha for the help. He went back in and met her already fast asleep. He kissed her forehead and got ready for work. He quickly headed to their new company.

He rushed in and met Adam answering a call. "I know I'm really sorry for not coming early. Ameenah wasn't feeling good and...."

"Bashir it's okay. You shouldn't have came. You look really tired and Aisha called earlier today." He interrupted. "I'm really tired man. I even feel like I'm the one carrying the baby." He sighed. Adam laughed, "you should thank Allah your wife doesn't shout or throw things at you when she's in pain or in a bad mood."

"But I'm telling you I love Aisha so much. I'm so glad I met her. She's the best."

Xx

They held hands walking down the quiet streets of Toronto. She got bored that evening and he decided they go out on a walk so she'll feel freshened up. "If it's a girl what would be her name?" She asked swinging their hands together. "Uhmm well I don't know yet but if it's a boy we're naming him Abdulhadee." They looked at each other and smiled. "Thank you for standing up for me and supporting me, even when the whole world is against me. You gave me everything I wanted. You taught me everything I needed to know. You helped me with everything when I was down. What more can I ask for? You're the best, I love you so much." She hugged his arm. "I love you so much more Ameenah. More than you can imagine."

They stopped by an ice cream truck and bought some. They found a place to sit at a park. It was so peaceful. There weren't much people there. He watched her as she talked and enjoyed her ice cream. That's what he wanted; make her happy and lively. He smiled, his heart warming up with her love.

She smiled back at him. And then she thought; There are days when she lays awake in her bed and wonder how could she have gotten so lucky. He came into her life like those princes of tales yonder and made her life feel so complete. So now that she has him for herself, she knows for sure that she is his forever more. He is the reason why she can smile in the morning again. Feel happy, complete and safe. He is the reason for her existence and the reason that she has the courage to make it through the day. She loves him more than words can say.

"Let's get going now. It's getting dark," he interrupted her daydream. He helped her to get up and they walked back home.

"I would like to cook today," she said removing her abaya. "What? No!" He protested. "I promise you," she walked to him. "I'm fine. I promise. I just want to cook something for you." She hugged him. He wrapped his strong arms around her. "Okay, I'll be there to help. Now let's pray before we start cooking."

They offered their prayer before moving to the kitchen. "What will you be cooking for us tonight?" He asked sitting on the stool while she opened the pantry. "Well I've been learning something online. I want to make some Mozzarella Sticks Bacon Double Cheeseburger." She said excitedly. "That sounds yummy," he grinned. "Let's pray it tastes good when I do," she chuckled nervously.

"Come," he told her. He placed his hands on her waist. "I've tasted your food more than I care to count and they all tastes really good. I trust you especially when is comes to cooking. So definitely I know what you make will tastes amazing." She cooed and kissed him on the lips.

He was by her side throughout, helping here and there. They cleaned the kitchen together afterwards and ate their dinner. It tasted amazing.

Xx

"Aunty how does giving birth feels like?” Ameenah asked. Aunty smiled through the phone. “Why do you want to know that? You’re four months far now and you’re already asking about child’s birth.” Aunty said. “Aunty I just want to know please. Tell me.” She urged. “Well don’t blame me if you get scared. You asked for it. It’s like someone reaching inside you and pulling your guts out with their bare hands. It's like being ripped rather than cut. It's so intense that if you didn't know it would be over when the baby was born you'd be begging someone to just get the baby out. But you know what? Your mind protects you somewhat from it's memory, five hours of brutal agony will seem like five minutes when you recollect. And by then you'll have the memory of holding your newborn for the first time and all that medieval torture you went through will seem like a price worth paying.”

Ameenah was scared at first but everything washed away when Aunty said the last part. “Thank you Aunty. That’s just what I needed.” She said. “Well it’s night time now. I need to get some sleep,” and said. They said their goodbyes and ended the call.

Bashir was yet to come back from work. She decided to go outside the backyard and to get some fresh air before he comes back. The moment she settled down, Safwana’s call came through. “Now if I haven’t called you’d never look for me,” Safwana said feigning hurt. “No, no Saf. I haven’t been feeling good lately but I’m all good now Alhamdulillah. How are you and how’s mama and everyone?”

“I’m fine Alhamdulillah. They’re all fine. How are you feeling now? How’s the baby?”

“We’re all good here. When are coming to see us?” She asked. “Huh! Your husband won’t allow me to. Claiming you guys just moved there blah blah blah... but Insha Allah I’ll come very soon.” She assured. “I’ll even talk to him don’t worry. I really missed you. My talkative sister,” Ameenah chuckled. “Hmm! Talkative right? When next we meet I won’t say a word.” She smirked. “As if you can. I know my sister. You can’t keep shut and that’s what I love about you. So lively and jovial.”

“Aww I love you too sis. I have to go. Just wanted checking up on you. I’ll call soon again in sha Allah.”

“Thank you so much dear. Till we talk again.”

She made some ice tea and cookie. She went back to the backyard and enjoyed her little snack while she flipped through the magazine. “Precious Gem,” He said walking towards her. His tie losed. He looked tired. He plumped down beside her. She gave him a welcome kiss. He placed his hand on her tummy. “Welcome back,” she said. “Thank you. What are you doing out here?” He asked. “Just eating my cookies and some tea.”

Ameenah flicked through the pages of the magazine, and as her husband watched, his scowl grew ever more pronounced. "What's up?" said Bashir. Ameenah closed it and curled it up into a tight tube, tapping it on her knee.

"Oh, it's nothing. Nothing. Say, you wanna go get some Cinnamon Roll Kabaobs? We can hit the mall, get some new jackets, leather I think, shoes too." Bashir wasn't buying it, he knew Ameenah too well. But saying these things too directly rarely helped.

“Sure, Honey. Say, have you lost weight? You're looking good you know." Ameenah raised her eyes off the floor to meet Bashir’s. She stopped tapping the magazine. Her mouth twitched like he wanted to smile. "I can think of an awesome work out we can do together. Of course, if you'd rather go shopping?"

"A work out?" Bashir gave up hiding his smile and grinned in a way that melted Ameenah’s heart every time. "I want to hear more..."

“Yes, well Maama advised me to always exercise. It really helps. You know, stretching, strolling works too. Some yoga, oh I was thinking of joining a yoga class. What do you think?” She talked. He enjoyed it when she keeps talking nonstop. “Babes anything you say. Yoga will be great. You’ll sign up for a class tomorrow In sha Allah.”

“Now c’mon I wanna hear something sweet.” He said placing her on his laps. “I'd rather replace my words of love for you with kisses of love. It's a much better deal, isn't it?” She grinned. He pressed his lips on her soft lips. His head had gone hazy; his body became stagnant at the sensation of her lips against his. Her kisses; So sweet and silken it’s enough to melt even the hardest hearted man. Just as he was going to lose himself in that moment, she retreated, a look of discomfiture on her face.

“You are always there, when I need you. You have been a great husband, a guide, and a perfect man to me. Don't know how it all started, but since the time you entered my heart, everything changed for me. I only think about you now. Its only you I wish to see. I may not tell you every day, but I mean a lot if only I don't say. Bae! Can't stay without you in life. I love you so much.”