The night was draped in darkness as Shaheera paced back and forth in her living room, phone pressed to her ear. On the other end of the line was Jasra, who had managed to forget her keys once again. 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH0MY0heOez
"Jasra, seriously? Again? How many times will I have to do this?" Shaheera sighed, trying to suppress her annoyance.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgYQN8ipWv6
"Yeah, I know, I'm hopeless! No need to say it again, I need you to come or you can just wait until I finish my shift and open the door." Jasra replied with a sheepish laugh. "But hey, you're my savior, remember? My knight in shining armor!"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiUeKzjnGci
"Jasra, you end your shift at 5 Am.” 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Euam7q0cI
“One more reason to come.”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUmsV3oqox2
“Ugh, fine. I'll come and get your keys, but you owe me one, okay?"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTlDlrw7Aw
"Deal! You're the best, Shaheera!"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhgCbuTg5Cf
As she hung up the phone, she couldn't help but chuckle. Despite the playful bickering, she knew that she would always be there for Jasra, just as Jasra would be there for her. Shaheera grabbed her car keys and made her way outside. The hospital where Jasra worked was a short drive away, but as she attempted to park her car in the dimly lit parking lot, she found herself struggling with the task.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBOvZw91Mj5
"Come on, Shaheera, you've parked a car a million times before," she mumbled to herself, frustration evident in her voice.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgRf5XUPTQU
After a few unsuccessful attempts, Shaheera abandoned the parking spot in exasperation. It was a good thing the lot was mostly empty at this late hour, sparing her from embarrassment. As she stepped out of her car, grumbling under her breath, a figure emerged from the shadows, causing her heart to leap in surprise. It was Hasan.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIehCbLnv3
“Dear God, you scared the shit out of me,” she said a hand on her heart. 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Fecj64QMj
"Shaheera, is that you? Are you alright?" Hasan asked, his voice tinged with concern. But he rapidly smiled, seeing how scared she had been. Her heart skipped a bit. His face looked like he wasn’t used to smiling much. 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3VtRdjHcis
Shaheera's heart rate slowed as she recognized the familiar voice. “Yeah, I'm fine. Just having some trouble with my parking skills tonight, it seems."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUIRKxobFu1
Hasan chuckled again softly. "It happens to the best of us. You should have seen me during my first few driving lessons."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwGKz2kpkNl
Shaheera smiled, feeling more at ease in his presence. "Thanks for the reassurance, but I’ve been driving for over five years now. I was starting to think my car had a personal vendetta against me. But let’s be honest I’m just a horrible driver."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlITfOyXNNR
"You know, I was about to offer my parking services, but it seems you've got it all figured out," Hasan teased, playfully raising an eyebrow.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4tGBkpow9
"Ha, very funny," Shaheera retorted with a grin. "Well, since you're here, would you mind doing me a favor?"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpIWwslZiTx
Hasan tilted his head, curious. "Of course, what can I do for you?"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmUQa7ck0TD
"My dear friend Jasra managed to forget her keys at home again. I was on my way to get them when the parking lot decided to challenge me. Could you please give it to her me?" she asked, hoping he wouldn't mind the small errand.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuSeBoyMQmY
Hasan nodded with a warm smile. "Sure, I can do that. Consider it done."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvXBgLPY38M
"Thank you, Hasan. You're a lifesaver!" Shaheera said gratefully.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Idi5h2MnC
As they stood there, a comfortable silence enveloped them. Shaheera couldn't help but feel a sense of ease around Hasan as if she could be herself without any pretense. Shaheera wanted to ask him why he suddenly stopped messaging her. Did she do something? Had she said something? 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgwbkYFtaW6
"So, how are you finding the preparations for the conference?" Hasan asked, breaking the silence. So he’s the one starting the subject, she thought.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiBZCZYXtjs
"Oh, it's been a whirlwind, but I'm excited. I can't wait to meet everyone and see how everything comes together," she replied, her excitement evident in her voice.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw1Dog68nD7
Hasan nodded. "I'm looking forward to it too. It's been a while since I attended a conference, and this one seems particularly promising."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVWpmksvrQ
Shaheera smiled, feeling a sense of camaraderie with Hasan. "It'll be a great event, I'm sure. And... well, I'm looking forward to meeting you too, in person."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffPwu5A9Ig
Their eyes locked for a moment, and Shaheera could feel the connection between them deepen. But as quickly as the moment came, she felt a tinge of self-consciousness. They had just met, and she didn't want to let things get too comfortable or familiar.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XvvS28X4T
With a hint of shyness, she spoke up. "I should probably get going. Thanks again for helping me with the keys, Hasan."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2zaGdNI71V
"It was my pleasure," Hasan replied warmly. "I'll make sure Jasra gets them safe and sound. See you at the conference."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgAPMyGCPSq
"See you then," Shaheera replied, offering him a small wave before turning to leave.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgkhxWXXQq
As she walked away, her heart felt both light and heavy. She was drawn to Hasan's warmth and kindness, and yet, she knew that she had to be cautious. This wasn’t the type of love she needed. The one to give you goosebumps and chills. She needed love like what she shared with Mark. Something peaceful. Like a … Friendship?598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiD43BlnCLp
***598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ayI2JjzLA
The hospital was abuzz with activity as Hasan continued his shift, attending to patients and carrying out his responsibilities as a radiologist. Despite the busy environment, his mind kept drifting back to the encounter with Shaheera earlier that evening.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4z4nvvbzWE
He couldn't help but replay their conversations in his mind, the way they had laughed together and the ease with which they had connected. He found himself captivated by her warm, expressive eyes and the way her smile seemed to light up the room. She had worn a simple blue abaya, proof she didn’t plan to leave the house. the color looked exquisite on her light skin tone. 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxu8bWN04w
But alongside the excitement, a nagging feeling of guilt crept into his heart. Hasan was a devout Muslim, and he knew that he should be cautious with his emotions, especially when it came to interactions with women. While he had never been one to engage in casual flirtations or meaningless relationships, there was something different about Shaheera that stirred feelings he had not experienced before.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmcozRPlpn0
As he continued with his duties, Hasan tried to focus on the tasks at hand, pushing the thoughts of Shaheera to the back of his mind. He attended to his patients with professionalism and dedication that had earned him respect among his colleagues. He was known for being serious and composed, and he didn't want anyone to suspect the turmoil he was feeling within.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmMo1cfjbt7
But as the night wore on, he found it increasingly difficult to push Shaheera from his thoughts. He recalled their email exchange, the way they had exchanged pleasantries and succeeded to keep a casual tone. Despite the professional nature of their communication, he couldn't ignore the underlying current of connection and camaraderie.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmKnCAdyo0z
Hasan couldn't deny the longing he felt to speak to her again, to hear her voice and share their thoughts and experiences. But he also knew that he had to be careful, maintain a respectful distance, and uphold the boundaries prescribed by his faith.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrgKnzelEFz
As he made his rounds through the hospital, he spotted Jasra in the hallway, deep in conversation with a colleague. He hesitated for a moment but the sight of Jasra reminded him of the favor he had done for Shaheera—to return her keys.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYe2sed6spQ
Summoning up the courage, Hasan walked over to Jasra, who looked up and raised an eyebrow in surprise. "What do you want now, Hasan?"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnm12sfVedn
"I found your friend in the parking lot earlier. She asked me to give you this." Hasan replied, holding up the keychain.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCZrnRVtcDa
Jasra snatched the keys from his hand, her expression still skeptical. "And why would you bother returning them? Are you trying to score some points with her or something?"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAz2MkArOaj
Hasan chuckled, feeling a tinge of annoyance at Jasra's accusation. "No, it's simply the right thing to do."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMkf3CzttSi
Jasra rolled her eyes, not bothering to argue further. "Whatever. Thanks for returning them, I guess."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcrEvH7lVPK
"You're welcome," Hasan replied, trying to keep the conversation civil.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfiqkQuzP7r
But as they continued talking, Jasra couldn't resist taking a playful jab at him. "You know, Hasan, Shaheera is quite the catch. Wedding is ready to be announced. Her husband is going to be a lucky man."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvNtVPyTYQE
Hasan's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Shaheera finding a husband. For a moment, he let himself believe Jasra's teasing remark, imagining what it would be like to be the one by Shaheera's side. But he quickly brushed aside the thought, knowing that it was just a joke and that he couldn't let himself entertain such fantasies.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1va43o2YP5
He managed a small nod, hiding the emotions that threatened to surface. "Well, she certainly deserves someone who appreciates her for who she is."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSyBFULCPoq
Jasra nodded, her expression softening. "You're right about that."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOcGCI9Ktm9
Hasan agreed, “Hmm,"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8zFHxxGQt
As they parted ways, Hasan couldn't help but feel a sense of turmoil inside him. He knew that he had to be careful, to guard his heart and keep his feelings in check. Shaheera deserved someone who would cherish and respect her, and he wanted to be that person. But it looked like she was already taken and preparing for her wedding. 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGuoY4jA2mh
He would keep his emotions to himself, content with the connection they had found. He knew that he had to let fate take its course and trust that the journey they were on would lead to the right destination. 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzQrkZw2Sp3
And so, with a heart filled with both uncertainty and hope, Hasan continued with his shift, carrying with him the memory of Shaheera's smile and the feeling of warmth that had blossomed in his heart.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuWGykAPDYz
Later that night, near Fajr hour, as Hasan arrived home, he sat in his quiet apartment, contemplating the feelings that had been awakened within him. He remembered the feeling of excitement when he saw her name in his email inbox, the warmth in his heart when he read her messages, and the desire to know more about her.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqSOfm9gmPw
But amid these emotions, a sense of guilt washed over him. He questioned himself, wondering if his feelings were appropriate or if he was crossing a line as a Muslim man. Now more than ever that he knew she was promised to another.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhV6A3Do8pa
"Ya Allah, guide me on this path," he whispered in earnest prayer, seeking clarity and guidance.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ45cbbuNI9X
He reminded himself of the principles of his faith—to be modest, to guard his heart, and to treat women with respect and dignity. He knew that he couldn't let his emotions cloud his judgment or lead him astray.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRN2JFgxBV1
As he reflected on Shaheera, he couldn't help but wonder about the significance of their encounter. Maybe they were brought together for a reason, he thought. Perhaps they were meant to learn from each other, to grow, and to discover new dimensions of themselves.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcyeH6GPEsa
Hasan decided to focus on the present, cherish the moments they had shared so far, and trust that fate would guide him in the right direction. He knew that he had to keep their interactions respectful and appropriate, just as he had been taught.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj4gxO26h4x
As he settled into bed that night, Hasan prayed once again, seeking strength and wisdom. The day after Hasan's encounter with Jasra and the news about Shaheera being engaged, he decided it was best to forget about her. Out of respect for her and her future husband, he couldn't let himself dwell on the feelings that had been stirred within him. He needed to move forward, focusing on his own life and the possibilities that lay ahead.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSdsMlrbuhT
Determined to take the first step in this new direction, Hasan went to his mother a few days after, who had arranged a Rishta with a woman she found interesting for him. His mother was hopeful, and her excitement was palpable as she introduced Hasan to the woman, Miriam.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjmhnIUJBHW
Miriam was a kind and pleasant woman, and Hasan did his best to engage in the conversation. However, as they continued to talk, he couldn't help but find his thoughts drifting back to Shaheera. He compared Miriam to her in his mind, unintentionally setting an unfair standard. As much as he tried to be present, his heart wasn't fully in it. Which didn’t make any sense. He barely knew Shaheera if he was totally honest.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBK8mvxIgm
Samira, Hasan's sister, joined the gathering, her bright eyes reflecting amusement as she noticed her brother's subtle lack of interest. After their mother had excused herself to retire for the night, Samira playfully raised an eyebrow at Hasan.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3GKlmz9qI
"Well, brother, how was your date?" Samira asked, unable to contain her curiosity.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf6BWeXukmC
Hasan chuckled, realizing that he couldn't hide his true feelings from his sister. "It was fine, Samira. Miriam seems like a nice person."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxRqs8qOo9W
Samira smiled mischievously, sensing her brother's conflicted emotions. "Nice? Just nice? I thought you were going to tell us you found your soulmate!"598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQIjUKdShA
Hasan’s stoic face relaxed a little, appreciating his sister's lighthearted approach to the situation. "It's just that... well, I thought I was ready to … But looks like I’m still not prepared."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkMMAkb0kBw
"It’s fine, you’ll find someone sooner or later," Samira said, her eyes sparkling with intrigue.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoU6sHQAlhy
Hasan nodded, feeling a mixture of fondness and resignation. "If you say so."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvR1PWPFQuf
Samira leaned back, crossing her arms with a knowing smile. "To be honest, I have some spies working for me, and … I know something."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Z0F8PIlKl
“You know something? Could you please be more precise?”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQppMfbiywq
“Someone I know, and YOU know, I’ve been sharing some information with me. About a girl. I heard she was kind and passionate about her work. Also that-”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDNHDIxEr5o
“Wait! Did Yaasib say something?” 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN62oySk4R5
Samira kept silent, her smile growing as Hasan stood up. “I’m going to kill him.”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAId84J8QFM
Samira took him by the arm and made him sit again. “It’s fine, I’m happy he told me about her, or I would have never known.”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv4CEt99F4g
“Yes because I would never tell you.”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9XW6aF8Kf
Silent fell on them. Hasan hesitated for a moment, unsure if he should share his feelings with his sister. But he knew that Samira was someone he could trust and confide in. "She's … hmm … beautiful. We had easy and casual conversations. But I felt a connection with her. Well, a start of something."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbIxksRW6A
Samira nodded thoughtfully. "It sounds like she left quite an impression on you."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDeeFxunvn
"She did," Hasan admitted, his voice tinged with sadness. "But I know I must let her go. I learned she was promised to someone. I can't hold onto this hope when she's not meant for me."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSp8U0VjYL
Samira placed a comforting hand on her brother's shoulder. "You're right, Hasan. Sometimes, we meet people who leave a lasting impact on us, but that doesn't always mean they are meant to stay in our lives. Trust in Allah's plan, and He will guide you to the right person."598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb9IG1De5Y1
Hasan looked at her from the side. “When did you start saying deep stuff?” 598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0crRWGwwo
“What can I say? I grow up more day after day.”598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJyvAwA7k5M
“You’re already thirty-five,” Hasan said with frowned eyebrows. "Thank you, Samira. Your support means a lot to me." he finally declared.598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqHp3fQd0ak
The following days were filled with a renewed sense of purpose for Hasan. He threw himself into his work, focusing on his patients and dedicating extra time to research and professional development. He immersed himself in his duties, using his career as a means to distract his mind from the lingering thoughts of Shaheera.
598Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVNAEn8UEg
