Part 18 - What goes around, comes around

A few weeks had passed and for some the time had been part of the healing process, a time to recover and restart. For others, these past few weeks had been the longest they'd experienced in quite a while. Abdullah decided to take the rest of the semester off and stay with his family. His dad was flown to the states to receive his heart surgery and was in the hospital waiting for the day to come he would finally go through with it.  The rest of the family came with him and Abdullah was back and forth between California and Cleveland where the hospital was.  Jawa flew out once with Abdullah to see his family and stay with them, she had helped to cheer up the family, new faces were always welcome. What had once seemed like an exciting love affair had begun to slow down, and her and Fawaz were beginning to drift apart.  Rania and Wassim ran into each other a few more times before heading their separate ways back to California and Wassim's architecture firm in New York. Aziz and Nawar's wedding was coming up very soon and everyone was more excited each day.

"I think I'm going to get this one! What do you think? I think I found it. I can't believe it. This is it!"

"Raniaaa can't you just wait a few weeks? They'll have brand new things and then you'll have all the options you want, instead of getting it just to get something."

"Ugh, Jawa I swear having sensible friends is so boring. But I guess you're right, I have time to get the right dress before the wedding. It's so weird, our best friend is getting married in 3 weeks. It feels like we just got back to the states and now we're going right back."

"I know! It feels like just yesterday we were joking about the day one of us gets married and what we'll wear and all of that. And Nawar is all grown up. Imagine her being a wife. The poor guy!"

"Ehemmm, guys I'm right here remember. I can still hear you! And I think I'm going to be the cutest wife ever. Aziz is the luckiest man alive."

"OMG it just hit me you're gonna move out soon. Nooo Nawar, you can't get married now. Okay okay, we all have to sleep in the same bed until you go so we can get sick of you and be ready to kick you out."

"Hahaha wow Jawa, perfect idea as always. What we would do without you."

"Sarcasm is going unappreciated!"

"So Rania, you know at the wedding Wassim is going to be there..maybe you want to talk to him before then?"

"Oh yeah, I forgot you're having a mixed wedding..."

"LIES! You are SO the last person to forget that, ahaha, we know you better than that!" said Jawa as she  was the first to leave the little boutique on the corner.

"Okay okay, maybe I remembered..but I am trying to forget. It's going to be weird seeing him.  I mean, we ran into each other a couple of times but that's it. Annnnnd we all heard he was supposed to get engaged to some girl he met in NY. She's probably snotty and rude and thinks she's so cool because she lives in NY...But really who cares."

"Yeah...totally sounds like you don't care."

"I agree with Jawa, totally don't care...ignore my eye rolling...Anyways, that's a total rumor and we've discussed that it's a total rumor a million and one times. I'd know, my family would know, and you would know if it was true. It is absolutely not."

"Pshh...if you say so."


Later that day...
"Aloo?"

"Hey, I want to talk."

"Fawaz, you called, I answered, we are talking, whatsup?"

"Haha no Jawa, like really talk..."

"Okay, shfeek? Is everything alright?"

"Yeah, well sort of...Can we meet?"

"I'm going out later, so I'm sort of busy. Come over and I'll meet you at the pool?"

"Sounds good. I'm on my way."

"Yalla bye."

As Fawaz pulled up Jawa's heart dropped. She remembered how just recently she was so mesmerized by him and how she'd hang on his every word.  Now they barely saw each other and he was becoming more and more distant.  She thought he was just getting over things and that she should try and do the same.  It was hard but it had begun working and slowly she was getting more and more over him.

"Hi...you look...really nice."

"Thank you? I'm in sweats and a tshirt...not the most attractive."

"La2, walla you're beautiful Jawa."

"Thanks...Fawaz what's wrong? Something obviously is.."

"Okay I need to explain something to you. Please promise me you'll listen to all of it and not hate me until I finish trying to explain everything, just give me a chance to help you understand the situation."

"Umm...okay...I'm listening"

They sat down at one of the tables by the pool and it had gotten cold so Fawaz gave Jawa his sweatshirt.  She was hesitant to take it but it was too cold not to.

"When I first came to the states, everyone knew me as a party boy and the type of guy that just screws around with girls. I know you knew me as that type of guy, and most of my friends did too. Only a few of my friends knew what I'm about to tell you. It all happened so fast and at first we didn't want anyone to know, then after what happened, I especially didn't want anyone to know. I was hurt and humiliated. I was married before.."

The shock was more than Jawa had expected at all. In her wildest dreams she hadn't expected to hear that...He was so young, when did he even have the time to be married and be unmarried by now? Was he even unmarried? How could he have lied to her? The questions were unending, all from those four words.

"Oh."

"We were really young, right out of high school.  But we were in love and sure that it was the right thing to do.  No one had known we were together because it was easier that way and we weren't the type that wanted a big wedding or anything like that, so we kept it very quiet.  We got married and went on our honeymoon and everything seemed fine. Everything was fine until...well...I found out that she was cheating on me.  She had fallen in love with one of her cousins and had been seeing him behind my back for quite a while.  I had been waiting on the divorce to be finalized and it was a while ago, but we were still dealing with small things here and there.  I haven't been with her for over 2 years now but last time we were all in Kuwait she had called my brother's law firm to deal with more paperwork that I didn't even know was even possible.  I'm completely over her and have been for some time.  But I just need you to know the truth.  I'm so, so sorry for not telling you this before.  I think I'm starting to fall in love with you and I know that I've had a horrible way of showing it these last few weeks.  We've been drifting apart and I was just so scared to tell you but I knew I had to, so I've been forcing myself to stay away and hopefully then I wouldn't hurt you. But I needed to tell you everything..."

"Wow...I don't even know where to begin....I'm..speechless.  I know we haven't known each other for a long time, but it's been a while now and...I can't believe you didn't tell me this.  But..I sort of understand..It's a big thing to put out there...I'm happy you trust me to tell me this..I just...I just can't see things the same knowing that you've kept this from me for so long. I'm going to need some space..."

"Jawa...please don't say this means we can't talk or see each other..I know we haven't much lately..but..I'll miss you.  I'll miss you a lot..."

Jawa's eyes were tearing up now..she couldn't believe that he could keep something so big from her..all this time he was getting her to fall in love with a lie..first there was Khalid and now this..

"Khalid lied to me, hurt me, humiliated me. I trusted you, I was hesitant but I did. I thought you were different...We need to take some time apart...."

Jawa started to get up and realized she was still wearing his sweater.  She noticed it was the sweater he was wearing the day they had shared their first kiss. She remembered him holding her close and her face nuzzled up against the sweater that smelled like him, how cozy it had been...More tears started to form.

"I'll see you at the wedding, Fawaz." she said, handed him his sweater, and walked out of the pool area without looking back.

Part 17 - Love Lost

We went and picked up Nawar to go see Abdullah's family.  When we pulled up we saw Aziz's car outside.  Apparently he was over, and so were here cousins.

Rania had been with her boyfriend Stefano for a while, but over the last few weeks she knew that it was coming to an end.  She knew it was over.  And she knew that he knew it too.  The spark was lost, conversations didn't last more than a few minutes, and they had talked about it a few days ago. They decided things had already ended a while ago and that this was the final moment of everything. She didn't really say anything to her friends because she didn't want to make a big deal out of it to anyone.  But now being back in Kuwait the last few days solidified that thought, and she had told her girls. Seeing the car's parked outside sent a feeling from her head to her stomach as if she was on a roller coaster.

"7abibti, did you..umm..did you see..?"

"Yep. He's here."

"We don't have to go inside, we can come back later!"

"No. Yalla let's go! It'll be fine. I'm good I promise."

"Haha, if you say so. But tell me the word and we'll leave."

They jumped out of the car and started to walk up the pathway to the house.

"This boy is crazy...look, it's still there. It's really not that hard to go get it removed. You know what? I'll do it now!"

"Omg you psycho! You can't take that off. He'll know it was you!"

"I don't care. Okay fine fine, maybe that's not the best way to see each other after a year."

"Wow I never would have guessed" Jawa said rolling her eyes.

They walked into the house and said hello to everyone.  Nawar's house wasn't the typical Kuwaiti type of house, it was 3ady for all the men and women to sit together. Rania kept looking around for him...his piercing look, his laugh that made you happy without even knowing why, the way he smelled, it was hard to miss.  Where was he?

Rania felt a tap on her shoulder and turned around.

"Wassim..." It came out as whisper. The roller coaster feeling was back.

"7imdillah Alsalama."

"Allah ya salmik"  ..still a whisper.  It was too hard to form proper words.

"How are you? I haven't seen you in..well..a while."

"It's been a long time. I'm good. How have you been? How is the firm going? Architecture and all..."

"It's really good 7imdillah.  I've been getting a lot of calls and people wanting to hire me for projects.  We actually got a really big one the other day and.." The huge smile that had grown on his face was quickly disappearing just as fast as it had come "You don't need to listen to me go on about this. It's good thank you."

Rania's heart was breaking all over again. Wassim and Rania had been together off and on since they were quite young.  Even when they weren't together, they were.  There were times when one or the other would begin to talk to someone else, but the love between them was too strong for them to ever move on from each other.  That was, until the day Rania left for Italy..and met Stefano.  Wassim had been busy in school studying architecture and had told Rania that they needed to take time apart.  His schooling was too important and talking to her was too much of a distraction.  Rania did everything she could to make it work with him. But at the end of the day, not knowing how long she'd have to wait for him to be over this, it was too hard.  When she met Stefano, she hadn't heard back from Wassim for weeks and had realized it was time to move on. As hard as it was. Stefano came to really love her and as much as she cared about him, her feelings towards him were never like her's for Wassim.

"It's nice to see that you're doing well.  I'm happy for you.  You got what you wanted."

"I am. Thank you."

They froze for a moment and looked around.  They had not expected to see almost everyone staring at them, waiting to see what happened.  Everyone had known about them and Wassim's family, which was Nawar's family as well, loved Rania.  The hope that one day they would get back together was one the entire family shared.  However, they were making it a little too obvious.

"Can we help you..?" asked Wassim giving them one of his fake upset looks.

"Wassiiiim leave them alone!" Rania half whispered to him giggling.  It was too easy to fall back to their old playful ways. They just looked at each other realizing that as easy it was to get back to that, they weren't.  It was like being torn apart all over again.  But they kept up the act and acted civil with each other, making sure they were on good terms.

Eventually Jawa got a call from Fawaz saying it was time to go to see Abdullah's family. She got up and said bye to everyone, telling Nawar, Aziz and Rania it was time to go.  Aziz said he was going to stay and hang out with her cousins, he had gone to see Abdullah's family quite a bit and would go back later. Nawar and Rania got their stuff and headed out.  On their way out Wassim's best friend Yousef pushed him to get up and talk to Rania.  Wassim got up and walked them out.

"How is Abdullahs dad doing?  We went to see him the other day and he didn't look very good.."

"Inshallah he gets better. That's all we can hope for," Rania said. She looked to her side to see what Nawar and Jawa had to say only to see that they had walked up ahead and were already at the car. Rania and Wassim had stopped by the back of Wassim's car. "Wassim, really?..You still have this..?" She tried to make a joke out of it, but she really wanted to know why it was still there.

"Shfeech? I like it. It's very me, you know."

Rania had one time jokingly threatened to put a pink glittery flower sticker on the back of his car if he didn't stop freaking out about school and take a break for himself.  Of course he didn't, he was too dedicated to his work.  So she went straight to the store and bought the pink glittery flower. The next time he came to her she didn't wait a second, she walked straight over to the car and stuck it on the bumper.  "There! Hah!" she had yelled at him, cracking up.  He stood there giving her his fake upset look and then started cracking up too. He told her that "as long as I love you, 7ayati, I'll leave it there. And I'll love you forever. It'll be a reminder of the fact I love a freak," he teased her.

"Yeah. Pink and glittery were always how I thought about you."

"Pink is manly."

"Never said it wasn't." She loved joking with him, he always made her smile. Even if they hadn't seen each other in almost a year.. "I should go.."

"You should. Yalla, it was nice to see you Rania."

"You too Wassim."

The car ride over to the hospital was full of jokes and gossipy news that Nawar had heard from her family.  They asked Rania how she felt after seeing Wassim and she said the same as always, like someone had punched her in the stomach, taken her favorite thing away from her and was dangling it in her face. It killed. But she knew thats how it had to be.  Jawa and Rania teased Nawar about how Aziz stays at her house now and she doesn't, how times had changed and how he was really going to be a part of the family soon.  The girls talked all about their boys giggling and telling stories.  The mood changed entirely when they pulled up to the hospital.  Silence fell over the girls and the weight of the situation hit them.  Their best friend's dad was maybe dying and there was nothing anyone could do to change it.  Jawa began to cry as she parked the car near Fawaz's.  Nawar and Rania got out and helped Jawa out of the car and into the hospital.

"You have to be strong for him! You are like a part of their family, you need to hold yourself together. No more crying okay? Pull it together Juju, it'll be okay."

They walked in and found the room where Abdullah's family was.  They heard laughter coming from the room, "must be a good sign" thought Jawa.  As she walked up they saw Fawaz outside with Abdullah, Abdullah looked like he had been crying but was trying to hide it.  Jawa ran to him and hugged him and began crying.  She was in so much pain over the pain of her friend.  Abdullah was more shocked than anything and began to laugh and try to calm down Jawa.

"He's going to be okay..for now at least.  He has to go to the states for heart surgery."

"7imdillah. 7imdillah." and the tears formed in Jawa's eyes all over again, except this time they were happy tears.  She looked up to see Abdullah tearing up to, trying to hide it. "Abdullah...7abibi.."

He smiled at her and said "Shhh..this will be our little secret" and let himself cry in front of the one person he trusted the most.  

Part 16 - Family Time

Sorry everyone! I've been so busy with classes these past few weeks. Heres the next post!
____________________________________________________________________________

"Ahlaaan! When did you get back, man?"

"Last night. 3aboods dad isn't doing to good, we came with him. How is everything with you?"

"Ohh, salamat. 7imdillah. Everythings good!  Work is going really well and the firm is still taking up every waking moment of my life.  I can't say Layan is too happy about that, but I'm just making sure I can get what I need to done."

"Haha congrats, man. I'm happy for you. It really sounds like you're happy. Tell Layan I will definitely be stopping by for one of her amazing home cooked meals!"

"Heeey! That's not funny! Do not encourage her cooking, I beg you.  Last time I had to eat chicken that was barely chewable and rice that was practically black from how burnt it was. I had the maids take it and hide it when she went to answer the phone. And you know who was calling the house? Me! I couldn't eat it, bro. I really tried."

"Hahahahaha. It is pretty bad. Well I will stop by and we can order! I have to see her, the future mother of my next niece or nephew, before I go!"

"Inshallah. I know she'd love that. Oh, by the way...I know right now might not be the best time..I need you to come finish signing the last of the papers at the office today. Fawaz man, I know this has been really hard on you. And, well, I don't think I could have been as strong as you have.  But..yeah...just stop by whenever you're free and we'll finish it up.  It'll be like it never happened."

"....But it did...Yeah man, 5alas. I'll come by soon. Uhh, yalla. I'll see you later" ..click.


In the meantime...
"Jawa have you talked to your brother lately?"

"Which one Baba?"

"The oldest one who seems to have a new life of his own. We haven't heard from him in over a week."

"Ee, dad. He's busy. He's an adult now and exploring life. He probably has 3 kids and a dog and the mother of his children is older than you, but it's okay! He's still young enough to learn."

"I'm so happy I send you to America to learn and this is what I get in return. Hahah, my daughter is so bright. Mashallah. If only you could put that imagine to use with your studies, then maybe we could get somewhere."

"Yes, that is true. But at least I don't have 3 kids and a dog yet!"

"Hahaha, oh god...Jawa, 7abibti, is everything okay? Everytime you look at your phone you get a weird look on your face."

"I what? Oh..sorry. Yep, I'm fine!  I guess I'm just worried since I haven't heard much about Abdullah's father yet. I think I'm gonna go over there soon and see what's going on."

"That's a good idea. Tell them we send our regards. I'll go by soon."

"Inshallah, Baba."  ..And with that I got up and started up the stairs to my room.  As much as I truly am worried about 3boods dad, Fawaz has been acting really strange all of the sudden.  I don't know if I did something, or I said the wrong thing.  Just a few hours ago everything was so perfect and now he seems so..distant?  Oh well. I guess I'll keep acting normal and maybe he'll come around.

"Of course this is where I find you."

"Shhh...sleeping and watching gossip girl. Blair and Chuck...shhh..."

"Ughh Rania, Move over."

We spent the next two hours in and out of sleep while watching Blair and Chuck fall back and forth in and out of love with each other.  It feels so stupid to say but I guess I kind of understand that confusion.

"Yalla. Time to go over to Abdullahs and see la familia."

"Isn't that my family?"

"Is it? Madry, my spanish is shit. My Arabic has never been great and you think I can top if off with Spanish?"

"Ahh, true true."

We got dressed and hopped in my mom's car.  She let me borrow it for the day.  Since we're only here for a few days theres no point in renting a car for us to use.  We blasted the radio and sat without talking listening to iiO sing "Is It Love" while driving along Gulf Road. It felt so good to be back.  So many memories came rushing back and I wanted to cry and smile and laugh all at the same time. I looked over at Rania and could tell she felt the same.  It was that feeling of being home that really did something to you.

Of course this cute little moment of ours was interrupted by some asshole who thought it would be cool to cut us off and try to flirt.  Wow, I didn't miss this.  ..Okay, well maybe a little. It can be a little entertaining, you have to admit.  Just from time to time. However, this was getting annoying.  He wouldn't quit.  So we finally slammed on the brakes and he almost hit us.  I couldn't tell who it was because his windows we're so tinted. Who is this guy? He's going to ruin to my lovely drive!  I called Fawaz and mentioned it to him and within no time Fawaz was in the car and ready.  I can't believe this guy! He's following me even into the parking lot of Palms.  No one ever sticks with it that long! Fawaz was waiting but this guy acted like he didn't even notice.  He seems so creepy.  The look on Fawaz's face was priceless. He could have killed the guy. I couldn't help but laugh.  There was my guy, ready to protect me and kick this guys ass, and looking pretty damn hot while doing it too. I was so happy.

It worked out well since we were all going to see Abdullah's family anyways.  Once the asshole left we followed behind Fawaz and went on to 3bdood's house.  Apparently everyone was at the hospital and it was family only time for the next few hours, his aunt told us.  She said if went in an hour or two that it would be fine then.  So we decided to go pick up Nawar and get coffee before hand.  And we'd meet Fawaz later. 

Part 15 - Home again

We were all finally back home.  I wish it had been for better reasons, but here we were all ready to support Abdullah and his family.  So many things have changed in such a short time: Fawaz was the new addition to our little group of friends, Nawar and Aziz were engaged, Abdullahs dad wasn't doing very well and it was time to see my family again.  Rania's parents were out of the country so she'd be staying at home alone with her nanny, of course she'll be spending a lot of time at my house.  As Fawaz's driver took us all back to our houses, I looked around to see Kuwait again and felt right at home.  The weather was still quite warm and the moon was giving everything such a nice glow.  The feeling that each emotion was just a little bit stronger, a bit more intense is undeniable when you're back in Kuwait.  Everything seems more exciting and special.

We dropped off Nawar, then Abood, then Aziz.  Rania was coming home with me for the day, I couldn't let her come home to an empty house for her first day back.  I was surprised at how awake Rania was, usually after long flights she goes straight to sleep but she finally had energy.  I'm usually really awake after long flights so thankfully she'd be up to keep me company.  It was the middle of the night and I wasn't expecting anyone to be up.

"Thank you again for dropping us off, it was really nice of you."

"Ishdaw3a Jawa, I'd prefer to make sure you get home safely.  And spending extra time with you, well, I'd never complain about that."  He looked over and saw Rania was there as well, he completely forgot. "...And you too Rania. Never complaining." He said with chuckle trying to make it less awkward for him.

I called Manila my nanny and had to wake her up to open the gate.  She was so surprised to see us.  "AYY Madam Jawa. You're back? Mama no tell me you come! When you come?"

"Today, we just got back.  Is everyone asleep?"

"Yess, everyone in bed. Me too, I woke up now."

"I know, sorry. Okay 5alas can you make tea please and we'll get our bags."

"Okay madam."

We brought our bags up to my room trying to make as little noise as possible.  My big pink room sat unchanged from the last time I was here.  I love my room so much.  It's cozy and the most "me" room I could imagine.  My artwork is placed around, Mama is much too proud of it.  There's lots and lots of books and magazines on my coffee table in front of the couch I have.  It's the perfect amount of space and color.

Manila brought in our tea and we sat down talking about everything that had been going on lately.  We both ended up passing out right away.

The next morning, I woke up to my phone ringing.  I didn't recognize the number but I was too sleepy to think about, so I answered anyways.

"Aloo, it's very early you know.."

"Do you always answer numbers you dont know?  And say that?"

"Ughhh who is this?" I thought it was Fawaz, just had to make sure you know.

"Your knight in shining armor."

"Sorry I already have a few, not looking for any new ones."

"Hilarious."

"Good morning" I was already smiling and I dont even know why.

"Good morning to you too. I thought I'd wake you up so you're not overly jet lagged.  It's the best way to ruin a trip."

"Thats very thoughtful of you.  And thank you for that, I hate being jet lagged on short trips."

"You're most welcome."

"You seem in a good mood today.."

"I woke up, saw my parents, had breakfast with them, played with my niece and nephew and am now talking to the most beautiful girl I know. Why wouldn't I be in a good mood?"

...And I thought I was smiling before, SO the best wake up call ever.  "You're cute."

"I know."

"Wai3"

"Shut up, you like it. Anyways, yalla get up shower and see your parents now.  And wake up Rania I'm sure she's still asleep as well."

"Inshallah. Will do.  So this is your number here?"

"Ohhh you're interested in what my number is here? I knew it," he said in the cockiest voice ever. I could imagine the grin on his face right now. He's adorable.

"Just wanted to know what numbers to avoid"

"Afaaa."

"Hahah bye loser."

"Talk to you later alligator."

I got up and looked around and realized that Rania wasn't here.  There is no way she'd be up before me. I guess I really did over sleep.  I got showered and changed and went downstairs to see her sitting with my mom.

"JAWA! Hellloooo and welcome home. What a lovely surprise!" my mom said as she ran over to hug me.  "I'm so happy you're here!"  She was almost in tears. "I walked downstairs today to find Rania in the kitchen.  It took me a minute to realize I was actually awake and not dreaming and she filled me in on what's going on."

"Yeah, sorry I didn't call ahead of time. Everything was just so last minute you know."

"No need to apologize! I completely understand." She hugged me again. I was so happy to be back. "Your brother and sister are at school and Dad is at work. They'll all be home later today.  For now, want some coffee?"

"I'd love some coffee."

We sat around catching up with my mom and filling her in on what's been going on lately.  We all laughed and told stories and heard what we'd missed while away.

I got a bbm so I checked to see who it was from.

*BBM - Khalid* Still up? Don't tell me my wake up call was for nothing

*BBM - Jawa*  Still up! No it did wonders actually, I should hire you and get rid of my alarm clock

*BBM - Khalid* Mehhh, I don't know if I could stand your voice that much

*BBM - Jawa* You wish you could hear my voice that much

*BBM - Khalid* You're right, I do, even more than that if I could

*BBM - Jawa* Uhh lame much?

*BBM - Khalid* You really know how to kill a cute moment huh

*BBM - Jawa* I just had to, too tempting :)

*BBM - Khalid* Hahah I can imagine the look on your face right now

"Who are you texting? You look so..giggely," said my mom.

"No one" I said trying to keep my face from turning 10 different shades of red...I couldn't help but grin though..What was I getting myself into

Part 14 - Really Short Post

Sorry everyone, I've been so busy lately I haven't had time to post. This is really short but I'll post again today or tomorrow inshallah.

________________________________________________________________________________

I couldn't believe Shaikha saw the messages Khalid had sent me! So many things were running through my head. I ran and got Rawan and told her what was going on, I could see Fawaz staring at us trying to figure out what was going on.

"WHAT!?"

"Yeah, Rawan it's SO bad. Like baaad."

"I can see that.  Have you talked to her? Have you talked to him? Omg"

"No we didn't even have time to talk before she saw it and the last I saw he went running after her."

"You didn't...you didn't say anything you wouldn't want anyone to see did you? Anything...about you guys..and being together?..."

"RAWAN! Do you really think I'd do that? I told him she deserves better than to be treated like that."

"Okay okay just making sure. You never know."

"Mhmm whatever. Anyways, what do I do now? I feel horrible."

"Babe there's nothing you can do.  At the end of the day it's good she sees the real side of him and she saw that you told him it's not right oo chithee so 5ala9 that's all there is."

"Yeah, I guess you're right.."

"Right about what?" Fawaz said as he popped up out of nowhere.

"Ouff you scared me!" Rawan squeaked.

"Didn't your mother teach you it's rude to eavesdrop? Especially on girls?" I asked, trying to sound pissed off.

"Didn't your mother teach you it's rude to keep secrets?"

"Touche, touche."

"So what's going on? And don't say nothing. I can see something's going on and our flight just got delayed another 45 minutes and I'm SO bored. So yalla let me in on what's going on."

"Ummmm..." "Well...."

We sat down and told him what's going on, from start to finish.

"But you can't mention anything to Abood. I really don't want to take away from what's going on with him with my stupid drama. Promise?"

"Ee, 7abeebty, Inshallah." Cuuuutie he called me 7abeebty. I kept replaying him saying that over and over in my head.

"Thank you" I could tell I was blushing.

A few hours later:

"Flight to Kuwait is boarding at gate D17.  Flight to Kuwait will now begin boarding."

On the flight, I looked back to see that Shaikha was able to convince one of the flight attendants to switch her seat and so Khalid was left alone to sit in the horrible seats the lady had planned for them.  I felt bad for her having to sit alone, but I wasn't about to go over there just yet. I do not think I'm the person she'd want to talk to right now. As all of these thoughts were running through my head I felt another head make it's way to my shoulder. Fawaz had already fallen asleep on my shoulder. Cuuuutie. Wow my feelings were really growing for him.

"You guys look comfy" Abood said with a wink as he was getting settled in his seat behind us.

"Shut up!"

"It seems like he really likes you, you know."

"Do you think so?"

"Yeah, I do."

"Wait seriously you guys havent talked about it? You're just guessing?"

"We are not you Nawar and Rania and discuss every little thing in our lives down to what plate we ate breakfast from.  We're men!"

"Hahah fine. But you really think he does?"

"I think so, yes."

"Me too" mumbled Fawaz in his sleep.

I sat there grinning for the rest of the flight until I fell asleep. We were all so exhausted so thankfully the flight home went by fast.

Once we arrived we all got our luggage and everything together and headed out.

"I completely forgot to tell my parents I was coming." I said, I'd been so busy before we left it didn't even cross my mind.

"Oh shit me too," said almost the entire rest of the group.

"3ady my drivers here, I'll drop all of you guys."

"Thank youuu."

Part 13- Off We Go

Nawar and Aziz were finally engaged!  All we've talked about the last 2 days was whats needed for the wedding, where would it be held, what would we wear, what kind of flowers. It was so exciting.  Nawar was constantly glowing. Me and Rania were practically as excited as Nawar was.  Our little baby is getting married! The date isn't set yet, when we go back for winter Nawar and Aziz are going to decide with their families.

Tonight we were having dinner with Aunty Mona at our apartment.  She was coming over to congratulate Nawar on her engagement and we haven't seen her in forever.  She's always been like my second mom, and when Rania and Nawar came into my life she became like a mom to them as well.

"What should we make for dinner?" Rania asked as she helped us clean up.

"Maby cooking, let's just order in."

"Okay good, I'm so not in the mood of cooking either." We liked cooking but some days you just can't be bothered.

We settled on ordering Chinese and watching Pride and Prejudice, Aunty Mona's favorite (one of ours as well).

A few hours later we were all set up and finishing last minute cleaning when we heard "Hellooooo girls!"coming from the door. Aunty Mona was here!  "CONGRATULATIONS!" she said as she ran over to Nawar.  "I spoke to your mom this morning she's so excited! We all are! This is so exciting.  And Aziz, Mashallah! You've got such a great guy. I'm so happy for you 7abeebty!"

After dinner we all sat around talking and watching the movie.  Aunty Mona decided to go home since it was getting late and leave us to sleep.

The next day I woke up to someone banging on the door.  It was 3 AM.

"WHO IS IT?! What could you possibly want this earlyyyy!" I had no idea who I was yelling at but I was already mad at them.  I opened the door to find Fawaz standing there half asleep, he looked so alarmed and was in sweatpants and a tshirt.

"Jawa, it's Abdullah's dad.  Abullah's packing his stuff to go home, he's leaving today.  His dad is in the hospital and really not doing well. Abdullahs really freaking out.  Me and Aziz are gonna go with him too. I just wanted to come say bye and tell you what's going on."

"La2. I'm coming too."

"Me too." We turned around to see half asleep Nawar standing behind us.  "Aziz just called me and told me what's going on, I'm coming with you guys.  We do everything together, we have to be there for him."

"You girls are amazing" Fawaz said with the cutest sincerity and kissed my forehead.  I could feel Nawar grinning behind me.

"When are we leaving?" I asked Fawaz.

"There's a flight at 5:30, get your stuff together quickly and we'll meet you guys at the airport okay.  Try to be there early.  See you guys in a bit."

As I shut the door it hit me, Abdullah's father was his role model, who he looked up to the most.  They may disagree on things but at the end of the day they had an amazing relationship...which could soon be over.  We woke up Rania and told her what was going on.  She decided to come with us.  Thankfully Thanksgiving break was coming up shortly so we wouldn't be missing too many days of school.

"Everyone here and ready?" asked Aziz.  "Passports, kila shay?"

"Yess." Everyone replied.

"Okay we've got your tickets here.  We're all sitting near each other.  Go check your bags, we already finished. And we'll meet you inside. Fawaz and Abdullah are sitting in starbucks."

"Inshallah."

As we were checking our bags I happened to look up and see.....Khalid. Of all days. You've got to be kidding me! 5ala9 I can't get mad, we're here for Abdullah not anyone else. It doesn't matter..Breathe, Jawa breathe.

"OMG!"  "OH SHIT"

"You guys saw him too?" I said, trying to be quiet about it.

"Yessss. Ewwwwww look at his fiance. She looks like a dinosaur."

"No ew she looks like a transvestite!"

"Ouff tell me about it. I can't believe I dated him."

They were walking in as we were finishing up.

"Can we move this along a little faster? That guy over there used to date this girl, cheated on her, psychotic, now hes engaged to that girl but still wants this girl. Please!" Rania told the lady.

"Oh no he didnt! Damn boys. Well how about we move them in between the lovely couple with the twin infants and the woman who's requested two seats to fit her?  Hows that for ya?"

"Omg I love you!" I told the lady as we took our tickets and met up with the guys. We made a deal not to tell them until we were on the plane so that they didn't make a scene with him. Or take attention away from Aboodys situation.

Nawar was asleep on Aziz's lap.  Rania and Fawaz were playing cards and Abdullah was in the smoking section.  I got bored so I decided to pick up some magazines and fun things for the flight.  I walked into the store and started to look at the magazines, of course I got the usual, fashion, clothes etc. I was nice and got a few guy magazines for the rest of them.  As I was looking around I could feel someone staring at me. Suddenly I got a tap on my shoulder.

"Uhh, hi.  Intay Jawa?"

I turned around and saw Khalid's fiance. I was shocked.

"Oh. Hello. Yes I am. Your Khalid's fiance right?"  I had to remind myself not to punch her, it's not like she had anything to do with what happened between us.

"I was wondering if maybe we could talk for a bit. Khalid's in the middle of a business call for his father and I saw you in here and..." 7aram she seemed so nervous.

"Ee, of course. Shall we sit?"

"Heh yes.  So..you and khalid..you used to..uhhh..?"

"We dated. Yes. But don't worry, we've been broken up for a while now and I dont have him in any part of my life."

"I believe you. I heard about you from some friends of mine. Oh gosh, the look on your face. Don't worry they all said good things.  But..."

"What is it?"

"They never said good things about Khalid.  They told me that he put you through hell."

"Well, look, uhh..?"

"Shaikha"

"Shaikha, Khalid was not a nice guy to me.  However, we were just dating and I don't think he took me seriously.  You guys are getting married.  I'm sure he realizes how serious this is and will be much different."

"I really want to believe that."

"Have you talked to him about this?"

"We barely know each other.  He barely even talks to me. I feel like he hates me."

I felt so bad for her.  She was opening up to a complete stranger.  She must be desperate to figure this out.  I couldn't imagine marrying someone I was this worried about.  I felt like I owed it to her to help her out, I know how he can be and she seems so sweet, she doesn't deserve to be treated bad.

"I'm sure he doesn't hate you. He wouldn't marry you if he did."

"Yeah. I guess. Do you think you could...Nevermind, it's stupid."

"La2, 3ady. Tell me, it's fine."

"Do you think you could talk to him?"

"Ummm...Are you sure you want me to do that?"

"You're the only person that I know that knows him well enough. And I know he'd listen to what you have to say."

"Okay, 7abeebty."

We walked over to where Khalid was. I couldn't believe I was about to do this. The look on his face made it obvious he had the same thought.

"Khalid, can I use your phone? Mine's dead and I want to send a message." Shaikha asked him.

"Uhh, yeah sure. Here." He seemed so confused.

Shaikha went and sat at a different area, still a bit close by to msg while we talked.  Right as I opened my mouth to start a conversation with Khalid I looked up to see Shaikha staring at us with tears in her eyes, and an expression with shock I've never seen before.  She must have seen the messages Khalid sent me.

Khalid jumped up and ran over to her.

"WA5IR 3ANY! GET AWAY FROM ME!" She said as she stormed off.  I sat there in disbelief.

...To be continued

So Far

How do you guys like the story so far? Tell me what you think! Or if you have any good ideas about what should happen next ;)