22 - The Story of Love [Completed]

23. Endings [Last]

'Hello. This is Daniel Edwards. Through this post, I want to share a very personal news to you all who have been waiting for me, which is that I converted to Islam earlier this year. I also feel very fortunate and happy to announce that I got married to Hoorain Ahmed a few months ago in Pakistan and we are very pleased to share that we are expecting our first child. So much changed for me in this past year or so but these recent changes have brought me so much happiness and joy in life that I wouldn't even ask for more. I hope you all continue to support me and my wife as we start our life and family together. Please respect us and our privacy while we settle back in Manchester. As for cricket, I will be back soon! Thank you!'

The statement was uploaded by Daniel himself on his personal twitter and Instagram accounts after consultation with English Cricket Board and his manager. Even though there was time left for his return to national cricket, revealing this news publicly still required some discussion with the Board so no issues arise later.

Placing his phone on the side, he turned to Hoorain who was eyeing him with a smile on her face. She got discharged from the hospital two weeks ago and was now recovering at home. Doctors were satisfied with her response to treatment but there were minor concerns about her pregnancy. A good healthy diet and various vitamins were prescribed to her, and she was to return for regular check-ups. She was also taking her medication regularly, not because she remembered to always keep up with it but more so because there was one person around her 24/7 making sure she took them on time.

'Can't believe, we finally told everyone!'

He exclaimed leaning against the sofa.

'I hope your fangirls don't come for me though.'

Daniel let out a laugh and shook his head.

'Hello, I am not a member of a boyband. Like who would even fangirl over cricketers?'

'I would.'

Her comment made him look at her almost instantly with a raised eyebrow. Always the dramatic Daniel.

'You would or you do?'

'I mean realistically, I did, and I was lucky because you know, the one I liked is sitting with me right now.'

Daniel's almost jealous concerned expression morphed into a shy smile.

'You never said you were my fan though.'

'Because I didn't have to be one. I can't say the same for your official fangirls though, tough luck that I found you before they could! Also, anyone who has watched you play cricket can't not be a fan of how you play. Like you are very good, husband.'

She patted his shoulder with an encouraging smile as she said it but before she could withdraw her hand, Daniel wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer.

'On your point about fangirls coming for you, well I will make sure they won't. No more discomfort or any sort of disturbance for you, anymore. You have seen enough.'

She didn't expect him to take her nonchalant comments so seriously. But it only made her realise even more that despite things getting better, Daniel was still very affected with all that happened. His pull to minimise the distance between them was his way of assuring her that he won't let her get hurt, in any way. Not that this matter was so serious. He would become her shield, any harm in her way would end him too. The agonising four weeks of her in coma were testament to that scarred belief.