Against The Tide (Formerly Two Tribes)

54: Love And Acceptance

Najah sat alone in the living room; her eyes filled with anticipation. Jameel had just called to inform her that Afrah had been discharged and they were on their way back home.

Although Najah was happy to welcome the newest addition to the family, she couldn't help but be reminded of all the pregnancies she lost. Tears prickled her eyes, and her heart ached with a bittersweet mix of emotions. She felt a deep sense of loss, mourning the dreams she once held so dear. All hopes of having a successful pregnancy were now lost. But amidst the sorrow within, she felt a flicker of joy, knowing that Jameel's happiness was intertwined with the arrival of their new baby, and that was enough for her. His happiness mattered a lot to her, even though she was not the one giving it to him... although it would have been nice if she was able to give him that too. Not solely for his happiness but hers too. Building a family of her own had been a dream she harbored for many years. She had always dreamt of motherhood, of the sacred bond shared between a mother and her child. The prospect of extending her love and care to a tiny, innocent life filled her heart with warmth and tenderness. She actually couldn't wait to see and take Jameel's first child in her arms.

But despite it all, Najah did not like the fact that she was feeling a tad sad about the birth of Afrah's baby for it reminded her of the children she would have had but lost. She tried to shake it off, but the feeling lingered. Najah knew that she had to find a way to embrace both the sadness and the happiness. She had to do it for Jameel's sake and hers as well. It was kind of like a testament to the love she had for Jameel, for his happiness.

The sound of the car screeching to a halt in front of the house alerted Najah that the period she had been anticipating had arrived.

Quickly, she wiped the corners of her eyes and practiced a smile. The last thing she wanted was to show any signs of sadness. The day was probably Jameel's happiest. She didn't want to do or say anything that would ruin the moment for him. Najah was also certain that it was the happiest day of Afrah's life as well. Afrah had been so supportive and compassionate towards her. She at least owed her some peace of mind.

Nevertheless, she was very happy and more than ready to welcome the newest addition to their family.

Rushing to the door, Najah opened it and a huge smile curled her lips at the sight of Jameel opening the door for Afrah as she alighted from the car with her baby firmly lying in her arms in a rose-pink blanket.

As fast as her legs could carry her, she rushed to Afrah and hugged her. "Congratulations, Afrah. I'm so happy for you. May Allah grant him a very long life."

"Ameen." Jameel's mumble didn't go unheard by Najah. He had such a huge smile on his face and for some reason, that made Najah smile too. The past few months had been quite difficult for Jameel too for he had to put up with her tears every night. He had been so sad. Seeing him happy again was enough for Najah. It made her momentarily forget about her own pain.

Najah carefully put the blanket away from the baby's face. She knew it was too early to tell, but she could tell the baby would be a replica of his father. "He is so beautiful, Masha Allah."

Afrah smiled.

"How are you feeling?"

"She's tired," Jameel responded on Afrah's behalf. "Let's go inside so that she can sit."

Najah nodded in agreement. "Forgive my insensitiveness, I was so eager to see him. Let's go inside. Can I..." Najah's voice trailed as uncertainty engulfed her. "Can I hold him?"

Again, Afrah smiled and nodded.

Like an egg, Najah took Fawaaz from his mother and together, they all walked into the house.