Cursed With Beauty (54)

Previously:

Amal: I thought of Mai, and I wondered if she was going to do the same to me.

Joojoo: Be my secret, just for a while..
------------------
Amal:

After english class I walked out, but Salma wasn't beside me, so I waited by the door.

7amad came up to me just asking how I was doing when she suddenly came out from the class.

Salma: WHAT IS THIS STUPID TEACHER, DOES SHE KNOW HOW HARD IT WAS TO WRITE THIS ESSAY!?

I was surprised to hear her talk this loud, I looked back at 7amad and his eyes wear glistening, his eyebrows were up in surprise and his smile went from ear to ear.

When she stormed off, I hit his arm.

7amad: Whaat!?

Me: What was that!? It's the first time I saw that face you just made!

7amad: That was the cutest thing I've ever seen! She was about to cry!

He laughed tears out of his eyes, and walked away as well.

S3eed:

I headed to my locker and when I unlocked it, a note fell in my palms..

"I love you.."

It said. I thought Joojoo was going to keep it a secret!

I threw my books in, & took my notebooks out. I leaned on my locker staring at the note again.

Before I knew it, the bell rang. My class was at the other end of the school, I just had to make a run for it.

I'd learned that the best short cut was through the library, suddenly I was pulled into one of the aisles.

Joojoo held my face close as she stared at my lips, I knew what she was going for.

I dropped my notebooks and gave in..

Khalid:

I got out of work early to take Mai to the hospital. We were going through the 5th month's check up.

Me: Mai, when do they tell you if it's a girl or boy?

Mai: I don't know.

Me: If it's a boy, when does it play football?

Mai: Do you have any idea how small they are?

Me: Well, I remember 3osha, but I was busy then..

Mai: What're we going to name it?

Me: I don't know. What if we traveled? How are we going to carry it?

Mai: I don't know.

We were young, with absolutely no idea of what was coming next. We found bliss in ignorance, when somethings we just didn't even want to know.

Amal:

Joojoo had missed out on Algebra, Reem and I really got worried.

We headed to the nurse in case we'd find her there, but she wasn't.

We grouped up with Dalal and Salma, we got really close during that time, and sat down at our usual lunch table. Assuming she would come when she wasn't busy.

As we chatted, Kovu, 7amad, and some guys sat down on the table in front of us.

Salma, Reem, and I were facing both 7amad & Kovu, while their friends faced them.

Reem: See that guy with 7amad?

Me: Yeah, what's up with him?

Reem: He's a player. He broke the poor hearts of every single girl in our school.

She whispered his name to me and said that he was such a disgrace to his family.

I made eye contact with him, wishing I could ask him of what I was hearing. Was I the next victim in his game?

Me: It couldn't possibly be! He has such a good reputation here.

Reem: Because he doesn't dare mess around with the girls from this school. So what do you know about him?

Me: No, you don't know him, that's surely not the case.

I looked at Salma, since she already knew about my admiration, but she was rewriting that essay she was mad about.

Reem: I'm sorry, I'm just trying to tell you, just to be cautious.

Me: Cautious? Of what?

Reem: I hear he's dating a girl from this school, but no one knows who..

She kneeled back and subtly pointed at Salma..

Was that the case? Was that why Salma's been quiet all along? But she knew how I felt! I trusted her!

Cursed With Beauty (53)

Note to the readers:

Feel free to share your twitter usernames, I'll be more than happy to interact.
-----------------------
Previously:

7amad: Keep your head up, and seriously now, cheer up. You're free now.
---------------------
Amal:

I went back home to all the family sitting in the living room. Their laughs were heart warming, the mood they were in was comforting and relaxing.

Yadoh was sitting on her arm chair with 3osha on her lap, father was on the floor leaning on a pillow, and then there was Mai & Khalid sitting beside each other.

Me: What's going on?

Father: Come join us, when was the last time we all sat together!?

I put my school bag beside the door and sat down.

Yadoh: Khalid, tell Amal the great news!

Khalid: That's right! Amal I want you to know that Mai's pregnant!

I last time this happened a life was lost, and I was left a baby to raise on my own.

I faked a smile, when in fact I was actually terrified. I loved 3osha, & I'd never want to change history even if I could, but I really was afraid.

Me: That's great news..

The only words I was able to say before I broke down. I ran out of the room and into mine quickly, before they saw my tears.

I know mother's intentions weren't to leave me lost with a child at hand, the choice to death was not in her hands.
I thought of Mai, and I wondered if she was going to do the same to me.
I was scared.

S3eed:

The papers were a done deal, Joojoo was officially mine.

I sat beside Joojoo after our families left us alone, that's when the smile she had on got wiped away.

Joojoo: In school, the more you know the more dangerous you are. I think I hold this power that I'd like to have intact.

I had no idea what she was talking about, so she held my hands.

Joojoo: I don't want anyone to know about us. I think Amal & Salma are enough, no one else has to know.

Honestly, I was offended.

Me: Are you ashamed of me?

Joojoo: I hope you understand, I'm only afraid of what the people have to say about us.

Me: I don't know about that..

Joojoo: Be my secret, just for a while..

Cursed With Beauty (52)

Previously:

Amal: The world paused, just for us..
------------

Amal:

As I sat down to have lunch with Salma, Joojoo joined us with Reem and Dalal.

Reem: Amal, did you see 7amad today?

Me: Umm, no.. Why?

Reem: I hear he hangs out with a weirdo! You should tell him not to..

Me: Weirdo? What does he have to do with me anyways?

Reem: Aren't you two..

Before she continued, I had to speak up.

Me: No! Nooo, no.. He's just a pain, you know how boys are.. Eww.

Reem: Well, yeah, but 7amad isn't just any guy! You know he's the most charming..

Me: Ewww! Why'd you say that!?

Reem: I was just.. Saying..

She stared down at her food, and stopped talking.

Me: Umm, I think we're too alike to ever think of him the way you do. I mean, yeah he's good looking.. But still, ew..

She laughed, and the tension was gone. I got to know Reem a lot better over the weeks, she's sweet and funny, but there was something about Dalal that threw me off.

Dalal was thin, and tall. She was smart in class, although I never saw her study.
When she walked, every step she took conveyed confidence.
Her table manners as she sat with us were just as lady-like as what Salama and I were taught by grandmother.
Even though we were somehow the same, I always wondered what she was up to..

When I noticed each girl was busy with a chat of her own, I whispered to Salma: Hey, I need to tell you something..

Salma: Hmm?

Me: I hope you don't mind.. S3eed and I are..

Suddenly the buzz stopped.. Joojoo, Dalal, and Reem were ready to listen.

Me: S3eed.. S3eed and I have the same.. Umm, Math teacher.

Salma: And..?

Me: Nothing, I was just surprised Mr. M taught seniors.

Salma: Oh.

Joojoo later pulled me to the side..

Joojoo: Did you hear?

Me: Hear..?

Joojoo: S3eed proposed to me!

Me: What!?

Joojoo: I know, I know we're young! His parents and mine agreed that it'll be a secret for now.

Me: Until when?

Joojoo: We'll wait until we graduate and figure the rest out later!

I wondered if I should be honest or not, I couldn't even fake a smile, I simply left..

I called him to the library..

Me: What have I done?

S3eed held my hands, and kissed me on my forehead..
I looked away.

Me: You really are getting married..

S3eed: Not anymore.

Me: And Joojoo doesn't know you've canceled the entire thing?

S3eed: Not yet..

I looked into his eyes that for the first time got to me. I thought I was ready to know S3eed like I never did before.

Me: You're not canceling..

S3eed: I am! I really am, and I'll tell my parents today.

Me: This was a huge mistake..

S3eed: Why am I the mistake?

Me: This is your mistake not mine. You've already claimed someone yours, how could you not tell me?

S3eed: I'll fix it!

Me: You chose Joojoo.. You can't hurt her!

S3eed: I don't want Joojoo!

Me: I can't want you..

He was frustrated, and so was I.. I wrapped my arms around him, and I cried. Silent tears that he never noticed. He just held me tight, tight enough that our souls almost touched.

Me: You have to let go of me, I have to let go of you..

S3eed: I'll stay with Joojoo, but know that I can never love her the way I love you..

It hurt, the fact that I'm the cause of misery to S3eed, and the misery that Joojoo didn't know about.

When he let go, I spotted 7amad standing by the library doors, with his hands crossed.
S3eed didn't pay attention, he just left.

7amad: Unbelievable, what was that?

Me: A game over.

7amad: I thought he'd hurt you.

Me: No, I hurt him..

7amad: Why are there tears in your eyes?

We sat down for a talk..

7amad: Woah, married?

Me: Joojoo's been there for him, I don't think there'd be anyone better for him.

7amad: And you're sad because?

Me: I thought I was ready to give him a chance..

7amad: This proves you're not ready, doesn't it? Now that he's off your back, and your head can be cleared, can you tell me who you want?

Me: What do you mean?

7amad: I know that even if it worked out between you and S3eed, you wouldn't forget about..

Me: That's true.

7amad: Nothing complicated, right? Everything just fell into place.

Me: What about "I'll never love her like I love you"..

7amad: Don't take it to heart, if she was the right one she'll make him forget about you..

Me: Uugh what a stupid mistake..

I rest my forehead on the table..

7amad: Don't think of giving in, and don't blame yourself for their feelings! You don't have to feel sorry for anyone.

Something in me felt released, and my guards fell down. He understood me.

Me: You've been here before, right?

7amad: Been where?

Me: This situation!

7amad: Well, not this exactly..

Me: Hah! Let me guess, a married woman fell for you! Hahaha!

7amad: Amal, what are you talking about?

Me: I don't even know.

I sighed and wiped the smile off my face.

7amad: Hahaha! You're crazy!

As we were walking away, he lifted my chin up.

7amad: Keep your head up. I know S3eed's not really the one who's on your mind, I know it's someone else.. Just wait.

Cursed With Beauty (51)

Previously:
Mai: I'm pregnant.
Salma: S3eed's getting married.
---------------------
Amal:
I woke up early on a Saturday, dressed up, then headed to school.
Thought it was a day off, the football club had a match that day.
Salma didn't know who S3eed wanted to propose to. In my head it seemed that he was too young to commit.
As a teenager, the child we have in ourselves collides with the adult we must be, we get confused.
I wasn't sure S3eed was sure of what he was doing.
I headed to the nursery building first to confirm 3osha's registration. After that, I went to the soccer stadium and watched S3eed practice.
It was awkward how his team didn't mind staring. Their passes were horrible, in fact they kept grouping up, staring at me, and talking.
I got up the bench and walked towards S3eed after they were done.
He was sweaty, perhaps the only one out of all the other players. The others were just messing around.
I took out a tissue and wiped his forehead gently, but he pulled it from me and continued on his own.
S3eed: What do you want?
Me: We need to talk.
He raised an eyebrow..
Me: Getting married? This soon?
S3eed: Listen, I.. I don't want to mess it up.
Me: Mess what up?
S3eed: I don't want to play any games anymore. Not that you care, but your existence is enough to depress me.
Me: Marrying someone to get over someone else sounds messed up enough.
S3eed: You never gave me a chance. You'd rather shut me out instead.
Every bit of sadness I've brought upon him turned into guilt and was kept in me.
I always wished I was in control of who my heart chose. If only it was that easy, I would voluntarily give myself up for him. Unfortunately, it wasn't so easy.
What was hard was remembering the names of every single person I rejected.
So many who had my good intentions became something of my enemies, all because of rejection.
As I was being blamed for all of his miseries, I gave up trying to fight it. Whatever would make him a sane person again, I'd do.
Me: Fine, I'm giving you a chance. Impress me.
That's when he held me close to him. My face close to his neck, my hands on his chest. For a second, I closed my eyes and felt peace inside of me. Peace I haven't felt before. It was as if the world paused, just for us..

Cursed With Beauty (50)

Previously:

"What's wrong?"

"None of your business"

-------------------

Khalid:

There were conflicts, lots of them. It seemed that every time we found a solution, a thousand problems came out of it.

Sometimes, right before we would give up, one of us would say just the right words that give us hope.

Even though she tried not to, Mai was slipping away from me. There was something I lacked that she was looking for, I didn't know how to please her.

I sat in front of her silently. The waiter placed our plates right before I was about to talk.

"Here are the menus." He said before he left.

Me: Mai, I..

Mai: Khalid, I..

I apologized, then gestured that she should go first.

Mai: Umm, no talk..

Me: Umm..

I pulled out a bouquet of red roses, and placed it in her arms.

Mai: They're beautiful!

She stared at them for a short while, sighed, then looked at me.

Mai: I have to tell you something..

Her smile faded away, she held her hands together as if she was gathering all her strength.

Me: Listen, I know I haven't been that perfect, I'm sorry..

Mai: No.. It's not that, I..

Me: But I'm trying, I hope you know that.

Mai: Khalid, I'm pregnant..


Amal:

It was no longer just in my head, I actually knew that I had some kind of chance with Kovu.

7amad: If I'll ever let him make a move, it's going to be legit.

Me: He can't possibly wait so long.

7amad: How would you know?

Me: I don't, I assume. I mean, we are talking about a boy..

7amad: We're graduating soon. Does that make a difference to you?

I thought about that for a while. When I thought of Kovu, he was a mystery a had gravitational force for. He has affected me somehow in my life, but only subtly.

Me: I feel like giving in.. My patience is running out.

7amad: Don't get me wrong but, you're a girl.. You can't afford to make a mistake such as giving in to what you want.

Me: Am I letting this chance slip away from me? What would it mean if I make a mistake for once?

7amad: You're letting go of this chance to save yourself for something better. Someone who is proud to announce you his wife, rather than someone who wants you to stoop low for him.

Me: He never did that..

7amad: And I won't let him. If he wants you, he'll get you, but in the right way.

As we sat in silence, My math teacher called out to me.

Mr. M: You spend a lot of time in the library?

Me: Err.. Yeah?

Good, let's sit down. He gave extra work, and when I struggled, he helped me out by explaining. I wasn't in the mood at first, but when I got a hold of my lessons it got somehow exciting.

The next day in class, he passed me 5 quizzes and timed 30 minutes in which I was to solve all of them, if I wanted to save myself from failing.

Me: Damn, Damn, Damn! I know this equation!

I looked at him hopelessly.

Mr. M: You studied this, try to remember.

I was staring at the last paper that was solved perfectly, with just one equation I vaguely remembered missing.

Me: How much time do I have left?

Mr. M: 5 minutes. Quickly.

In the middle of the war I was having in my head, the door opened.

Mr. M: You're late. Didn't I tell you to come earlier?

He came a sat next to me, given only one paper.

Me: One? Really? And I get 5? How's that fair?

Mr. M: You're looking at the highest graded boy in his class. It was just one mark he missed that he wants to get back.

"Nerd" I said as I realized the boy beside me was kovu.

Mr. M: Three minutes, I have to go to the printing room. Dare you cheat.

My heart raced, and the room started spinning. I tried to act calmed down.

He looked into my paper.

Kovu: Easy, they just want the opposite equation to the first one.

I stuttered..

Kovu: Give me the pen.

He wrote down the answer. I looked at him in surprise.

Mr. M: Ok Ok! Time up! Amal, show me.

I stood up and gave him the papers..

Mr. M: You're a genius! I didn't even know it was possible to do this!

I smiled while I looked at Kovu, who was grinning at his own paper.

Mr. M: What's wrong?

Me: Hmm? Nothing!

He paused, looked at us both, then let me go.

Salma was waiting outside for me.

Salma: How'd you do?

Me: Full marks!

Salma: So much great news today!!

Me: Why, what's going on?

Salma: S3eed's getting married!

Me: Woah.. What!?

Cursed With Beauty (49)

Previously:

Khalid: We're too strong to fall apart.

Amal: It wasn't me who knew you needed saving. I'm not "the one."
-----------------------

Amal:

Sometimes I wondered if there really was something between me and Kovu.. Coincidence, it was possible.
Why else would he wait so long, why didn't he make a move then?

As I stared down at my Math book blankly, Salma shook me back to reality.

Salma: Did you study? Come on, it's test time.

Easy. I went through the first page, second page, and third, and they were all so easy. I looked around, and none of the girls were done yet. I sat back, scanning the room for anything interesting.

"Amal" I heard Reem say, peeking her head from the door.

Reem: When you're done, the principle needs you.

I looked at the teacher, she let me go.

Me: What does he need from me?

Reem: Our teacher let us out early. I saw you were done, so I thought why waste time!

The next day, I saw my math teacher holding a bunch of papers. His face looked so serious when he looked at me.

Mr. M: Amal! What is this!?

He held out my test paper.

Me: Why what's wrong?

Mr. M: Ask me what's RIGHT. That reply would be easy, nothing is right in this paper!

I looked at him in surprise..

Mr.M: Fix this!

He stormed away as the bells rang, and everyone got out of their test halls. Minutes later, I saw Salma run to the restrooms..

I ran after her, but she pushed me away..

Salma: He was going to take his own life, and you didn't even think about telling me?

Me: I was scared!

Salma: I'm his sister!

Joojoo came along..

Salma: He loves you, but you don't even care.

Taken aback, I stood in silence. Joojoo seemed mad, and even as shocked as I was.. She left us alone.

Salma hugged me as she cried..

Salma: I don't know who to trust, I'm depending on you.. Don't make me regret it.

Too many things happened far too fast. At that time my heart was ripped out my chest, I was emotionless. I just held on to her insincerely..

Khalid:

I came back home, to my room to change so I can have lunch with my beautiful wife.. I took off my kandora, and threw it away. Before it touched the floor, she held it, and threw it in the basket..

Me: Wallah sorry! I'm not used to it yet..

Mai: Two steps ahead! It's perfectly fine.

At the table, I sat back waiting for whatever grandmother prepared that day.. She placed my plate in front of me, but it wasn't anything I was used to..

Mai: My secret mashed potato recipe, steak, and vegetables.

It looked like something you'd order off a menu, nothing a typical wife could make.

Mai: I cheated though, Mama 7amdah helped with the steak..

She really was trying her best to please me..

Me: Mai.. I don't know if I should say this, but..

Mai: Tell me!

Me: This is all great, it really is, but I'd be stupid to believe that I was able to make you this happy.. This level of satisfaction is something I'm yet to achieve..

Insulted, she locked herself in the room. I messed up again..

Amal:

Me: I really do wonder how he never gave in..

7amad: I never let him.

Me: What would happen if you did, it would be so much easier.

I sat by the window, looking down at Kovu playing a football match..

7amad: It's not yet time.

Me: Come on! It's not like you'd know!

7amad: I won't let you mess up..

Me: Sometimes I doubt it.. I don't know if whatever is between us is real, or if it's something from my imagination..

7amad: How are you with your friends now?

Me: I don't know..

7amad: Don't know? Ask.

Me: Not yet. I'm hurting everyone for existing.. I'll never be forgiven.

7amad: It's alright, it'll be okay.

I tried not to tear up, but his words were the only thing I had to believe in.

Seconds later, he threw his phone in my hands. Opened at a conversation with someone..

"How's she?"

"Not good.."

"Why not? What's wrong?"

"None of your business."

....

Cursed With Beauty (48)

Note:
To SAL, it's tomorrow, & this one's for you.
Love, C.B.

Previously:

Amal: Joojoo and I are no longer friends.

7amad: If you have no time for someone, you make it
------------------------------------------------------------------

Khalid:
 I came back from work, but Mai wasn't home. After I called her I knew she was shopping with her sister. I've always wanted the type of wife who would welcome me home and make me feel comfortable, but Mai had so many things to do that it never happened.

I had lunch, and as I put my head on the pillow, the door opened and she entered.

Me: When are you going to be home before I am?

Mai: How many times will I have to tell you to hang your kandoora?

Me: I don't even ask you to prepare lunch, all I ask is for you to serve it!

Mai: Why don't you listen to me?

Me: When are you going to obey me!?

When I saw the tears in her eyes about to roll, I felt like precious crystals where about to fall. I got up, held her face, wiped the tears that reached her cheeks with my thumb. Nose to nose, eye to eye, I said: I always failed to let you know, but I'll try.. You've grown closer to me than even this. We're too strong together to fall apart.

I sealed my promise with a kiss that explained more than I could ever say.

Amal:

At break time, I sat down with Salma to have lunch. Out of a sudden, I saw Joojoo run to me with great fear in her eyes.

Joojoo: I have to tell you something..

She noticed Salma then looked at me again.

Joojoo: Alone.

We walked away, then she began.

Joojoo: We have to find S3eed, I have a bad feeling.

Me: Why? What happened?

S3eed has been suicidal over the weeks. He sent Joojoo a goodbye message the day before. I ran back to Salma.

Me: Salma can your driver pick us up right now? Joojoo forgot her project back home.

Salma nodded and called immediately.

We couldn't find him at uncle's house. Once we got back in the car, we asked the driver where S3eed was.

"He went to the farm this morning. I took him there after we dropped Salma off at school."

It was one of those extremely sunny days that no one would think of going to a farm on. S3eed planned well. When we got there, we both ran to his room. It was locked, but we knocked uncontrollably.

S3eed: Who is it?

We didn't reply. I heard footsteps that lead farther, and another door getting locked. I knew he headed to the bathroom.

Joojoo: What about the windows?

The farmhouse was of only one floor, so we got out and headed to his room's window. Luckily, it was unlocked and we finally broke it.

I ran to the bathroom door and tried to open it. S3eed unlocked the door, with a pill box in his hand he shouted: What do you want more of me!? Just let me go! It'll be easier for the both of us. Not just us, but everybody else. My sister, my own father. I don't want to fight against the entire world anymore!

I shivered at how cold his words were. He seemed to alone, something I was feeling at the time.

Me: It wasn't me who knew you needed saving. I'm not "the one" for you S3eed, she is.

I left as Joojoo stepped forward.

Cursed With Beauty (47)

Previously:
Amal: Joojoo's having a gathering with the new girls.

S3eed:
"You should have protected her from yourself."

Mai: You're a part of me now, she has to realize that..
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amal:

We were to have brunch at Joojoo's, but as I waited for Salma to pick me up, yadoh began..

Yadoh: Where are you going?

Me: To Joojoo's, we're just going to have brunch.

Yadoh: No one gathers at such a time, you're not going anywhere!

Me: Salma is coming now to pick me up.. It's too late.

Yadoh: Tell her you're spending the day here, she's family anyways.

Me: What about Joojoo? I already confirmed!

Yadoh: How is it my problem? Just cancel.

I was very annoyed, although it wasn't worth talk back to. I just called Salma to update her, she was fine with spending the day at home. I also called Joojoo, apologizing for not making it.

The next day, at school, I met up with Joojoo and Salma before heading to class... Salma revising for some test she had, and Joojoo blabbering about the gathering we missed.

Joojoo: Well anyways, I'm off to see Dalool and Reem now, see you later!

Later, I never saw her. Joojoo got caught up with the new girls, and we spent days without speaking to each other. I got busy, and so did she, but slowly, we drifted so far apart we acted as if we never knew each other. One day I was walking down the hallways of school, looking at my class mate's familiar faces, then Joojoo with the new girls. It was as if their smiley faces withheld monsters, because every time I passed someone by, I'd feel a rush that would make my heart beat faster, and cause goosebumps all over my body. The people around were as if ghosts, staring at me, half there, half invisible..

I ran to the bathroom stalls and locked myself in one of them. For the first time ever, I was estranged from what used to be my "second home" or so they called school. I took deep breaths as I tears somehow blurred my vision. I wiped them off and got out the stall. In front of one of the sinks stood one of the new girls Joojoo hung out with. Her hair in a low pony tail, her shaila around her neck, and she wore thick eyeliner.

I looked at her as she smiled aimlessly..

"I'm reem, Amal, right?" she said..

Me: Yeah..

Reem: I heard a lot about you!

Me: Oh?

I walked out the bathroom as she followed me..

Reem: You know Dalal and I were so lucky to have met Joojoo! I don't really know how we would've survived without her.

Me: Joojoo is a lifesaver.

Reem: I know right!?

As we chatted, 7amad came and stood right in front of me. I looked up at him embarrassed, then lowered my gaze, smiling at the ground.

7amad: What is this? No good morning? What happened to the manners Amal?

he came closer to my face, but I took a step back. I saw Reem's face beamed up with curiosity.

Me: Come on, let's go.

7amad: Go where? You're coming with me!

Me: I have a class 7amad.

7amad: A class you're going to miss out on, to the library Amal, now.

I excused myself to Reem and followed him.

Me: I hate you! I haaate you! I'm dead now, Reem will think of it all wrong now!

7amad: Doesn't matter, I know who you're ending up with anyways.

Shocked by what he said, I gave him a look as my face reddened at the thought of it..

7amad: Why did you cry?

Me: Cry? When?

7amad: You know better, tell me.

Me: It's nothing.

7amad: So if I ask Joojoo, she'll know?

Me: No, I haven't told Joojoo.

7amad: I know, you don't even talk to Joojoo anymore.. What's wrong?

Me: Nothing! We're just busy.

7amad: Even when you have no time, if it's someone you care about, you'll make time for them..

Cursed With Beauty (46)

Previously:

Salma: Father knows it was S3eed!

Khalid: What did I do?

Amal: 7amaaad! Why do you have to ruin everything!
-------------------

Khalid:

Mai wouldn't let me near her, at lunch she only sat in front of me eating silently.
I never knew a woman could hold back from speaking, but I was just so confused with what it was I did wrong.

After lunch, she got up to take her plate to the kitchen, so I followed her..

Me: Mai? What's wrong?

She didn't look me in the eyes, she just pulled me back to our room and closed the door..

Mai: What happened last night?

Me: Umm.. Amal needed me to drive her, why?

Mai: What do you think I spent the night doing?

I realized that I left her all alone..

Mai: I sat in the living room with your grandmother, whom I never really got to know, just waiting for you.
Your grandmother offered to show me the way to our room, but I refused thinking you'll be back soon. How more embarrassing could it have been for me?

Me: She's my little sister, she needs me.

Mai: But you drop everything you have and go to rescue her.. Including me.

She seemed so worked up about it, I held her in my arms just to calm her down.. She held on to my shirt, crying as she continued..

Mai: You're a part of me now.. She has to realize that..

Amal:

Walking between classes with Salma, I spot two new girls walking with Joojoo.. Joojoo was showing them around & I was able to tell since the girls seemed lost.

New girl: So this is our class? Cool, thank you!

Joojoo smiled and came towards me..

Me: New girls, what're they doing here?

Joojoo: Dalal & Reem, they just transferred here..

Me: Which one's which?

Joojoo: Slightly taller, thinner too, is Dalal.. So they came from the same school.

Me: All you got?

Joojoo: So far, get to class now, we'll talk later.

Salma was a silent ghost, something of my shadows, which I didn't approve of.

Me: Salma, walk beside me.

She did so.. Somehow it seems that Salma almost lost her voice. She's been to school for almost 2 weeks, yet no one knew about her.

Typical Salma would've had a party that was going to make not only remembered, but also unforgettable. Ever since she came she's brought no attention upon herself, instead walking behind my shadow.

Later that day I called her up..

Me: Salma.. How about we have a party?

Salma: Why?

Me: To have fun! You'll get to know a lot of new people!

Salma: No need for that, I enjoy your company..

Me: Just me & Joojoo?

Salma: I understand I'm your cousin, if you don't want me around just tell me.

Me: That's not the case at all!

Salma: Then pay no attention to me, it's alright.

S3eed:

I was allowed no where near my own sister, even though she was the source to all the problems in our house. Father was brutal with his punishments, and I blamed Salma for everything ..
Every time I look at her, it's as if she doesn't get it. She's made my life miserable, she was the entire problem.

I was at the farm with father. Walking by the garages, I stared long and deep at my bikes. I was not allowed to ride any of them. The keys were with him, & fun was forbidden..

Father: Dream on.

I looked away, then lowered my head.

Father: Chin up, what are you doing?

There was no pleasing him..

Father: Those bikes won't make you a man, I will.

It felt like my father questioned me. I was furious, but I knew walking away was disrespectful & childish. I on the other hand, was not.

Me: It was not my fault.

Father: Men don't hit women.

Me: I am a man! I have authority over her! I'm supposed to protect her.

Father: You should've protected her from yourself.

He was called from work and shortly after, he left.
Through it all, Joojoo & I had been texting from time to time.
Sometimes it felt like talking to her was my only hope. It was relieving to have her around..
Remembering her, I took my phone out & called her..

Amal:

I was laying in bed with 3osha sleeping beside me when I got a text from Joojoo.. She said she was having a gathering with some classmates, and asked me to bring Salma with me.
Joojoo always had her ways to know people. She's always been popular with so many random people that it gets exhausting sometimes.

I asked Salma if she was going, then went to bed..

Cursed With Beauty: To the readers

Apologies to all my readers for taking this long, it's been a busy time, but post 46 is on it's way..

I'd like to be able to communicate with all of you, both my active & silent readers.
Leave your twitter accounts in the comments, & I shall follow.. It has certainly been a while since my last post, but share your feedback with me..

Should Amal end up with S3eed? Or are S3eed & Joojoo meant to be?

Love, C.B.

Cursed With Beauty (45)

Previously:

Amal: What happened?

Salma: S3eed happened.

Mai: I don't want anyone, I just really need you.
-----------------

S3eed:

I got back home from spending the night at the farm. While opening the door, I heard my father talking on the phone..

Dad: Listen, he knows where we are right now. We need to get out of here.

Very unusual, the curtains were closed, there was barely any light coming into the house..

He continued: I thought you said we were two steps ahead..

It seems that he got angry, he shouted: Why is my daughter in the hospital then!

I gasped hard enough that father noticed me..

Salma! Who took her to the hospital!? Who does father think could've layed his hands on her!?

Dad: S3eed! How long have you been here?

He put the phone behind him.

Me: No, I was just heading out.

I got out and told the driver to take me to the hospital..

Me: Morning, Salma Al x, where is she?

Receptionist: May I know your name sir?

Me: S3eed Al x, her brother!

She wrote stuff down on the computer and then looked at me.

Receptionist: Her files.. They got deleted?

I was surprised! How do patients' files get deleted like that! It's a HOSPITAL!

Suddenly, my phone started ringing.

Dad: S3eed: What have you done..?

Amal:

The doctor gave Salma some creams to rub on her back. Her arm was wrapped and had a shoulder sling on.

We only got to get out of the hospital at 4 AM, so I invited her to sleep over at our house.

I got up early & made her breakfast in bed. I only had to deal with S3eed during schools days, I was never able to imagine how it would've been like to live with such a monster..

Salma: Good morning..

She said as she opened one eye, smiling at the trey of food.

Me: Good morning!

I put the trey on her lap, but she cringed in pain.

Me: Oh! Sorry! Enjoy..

I said as I put it on her side. Her facial expressions changed as she stared long at the food.
It seemed that the memories were breaking her smile, and fading away every shade of happiness.

Salma: You can have it.. I'm not really hungry.

Me: You know.. I hate him too..

Salma: you.. Too? I don't hate my brother.

Me: Really? After all that's happened?

Salma: I read something once.. It said that family love is unconditional, and through thick & thin it must stand together..
I know that I don't know what that feels like, but maybe if I give it, I'd receive it.

Tears sparkled in her, but they never rolled down. Instead, she picked up her vibrating phone.

I looked away, thinking it was another.. Friend..

Salma: Father called.. He knows it was S3eed!

I stood in shock while she tried to get up.

Me: Here, let me help you.

Salma: I'm strong enough!

Me: This is me offering unconditional love, accept it.

There was surprising fear in her eyes. I read mistrust in her behavior, as if I was a stranger to her.
She held my hands only after deep thought..

Khalid:

I came back home to Mai sleeping in the living room.. I picked her up to our room..

I woke up only in the afternoon, and it was no shock that she wasn't laying beside me.
We were both early risers.

I walked around the room and found her sitting in front of the T.V. Sipping coffee.

Me: Good morning..

I whispered.

She seemed so distracted by the T.V.

Me: Mai? I said good morning?

She looked at me, put her cup on the table and walked away.

What did I do?

Amal:

I stood by the school gates with Joojoo, waiting for Salma.. Perhaps it was Salma, maybe it wasn't.

I prayed to God for at least a glimpse of Kovu, but he was no where to be found.

As soon as I spotted Salma's car, I opened her door and carried her bag for her. S3eed got down, slammed the door and walked away.

Me: Good morning!

Salma: Hey..

She was, for the very first time, in a sweater that was probably a couple sizes larger than her. She had the figure for anything tight, but she was in a sweater that hung off one of her shoulders, with long sleeves that only let her fingers peek out.

Me: We're going to the nursery section, I need some papers for 3osha's admission.

Joojoo: Cuuute next year will be so exciting with 3osha!!

Me: What about this year! It's finally JUNIOR YEAR!!

Giggly from excitement, I didn't notice anyone, ended up bumping into one face I'd missed so much.. Kovu.

Though my face but an inch away from his, I couldn't get my feet to take me a step back.

It was attraction that of magnets, & I had no heart to deny it.
I saw as his shirt got pulled back..

7amad: Good morning Amal! It's been a while!

He flashed a grin, pulling Kovu away from me..

7amaaaad!!!!! Why do you have to ruin everything!!!!??? Why do you love to make me hate you!

Cursed With Beauty (44)

Previously:
S3eed: She made me do things we both regretted..

Khalid: It bothered me more than I thought it would.
----------------------
Amal:

I stood in front of the mirror in an incomplete dress imayah had been making for me. Pink huge flowers were printed on a white background, it was the 1950s again.

Imayah: Stand still, I have to pin the sides..

Me: Imayah.. Can I continue working on it?

Imayah: It's all yours..

S3eed:

I carried Salma to her room as she was crying in pain.

Salma: I hate you! Get away!

When I let go, she dropped to the ground.

Me: Let me help you.

Salma: You've helped enough.

I disregarded the comment.. Whenever I tried to carry her, she'd scream in agony.. It was a struggle to get her to her bed..

Me: Well.. I don't think anything's broken.. At least?

Salma: Get away from me.

Me: Shut up, you're not staying here alone.

Salma: I can't wait 'til dad's back.

Me: You think dad will believe you? YOU? Haha!

I touched her neck gently, closer her throat, I held it tighter until she choked

Me: Dare you tell dad.

Salma: Get out!

She cried, it hurt, but I was in enough trouble.. I didn't know how else she'd ever learn her lesson. I'd grown tired trying to stop her.

Khalid:

I turned around only to find Mai surrounded by men.

"May I help you?" "Do you need anyone to carry the suitcase?" "Are you here alone?"

They all stood there like filthy dogs. She looked at them in surprise, it seemed like she was clueless of her beauty. She then looked at me as if to ask why they were all talking to her.

Mai: Sorry, but my husband's right there.

She said as I walked away even more angered than I was before, but she caught up with me whispering..

Mai: I don't know what their problem is. Couldn't they see I was with you!?

Actually.. From how far I walked ahead, I wouldn't blame the men for thinking she was alone..
It really was my fault, but I wasn't ready to admit that.. I was furious, but when she said that I did feel a bit better.

Mai: Did they really think they could be anything like you?

Me: Like.. Me?

Mai: I don't "want" anyone, I just really need you.

She held my hands, brought it closer to her heart, then her cheeks, then kissed it gently.

Amal:

I was in my finalized floral dress, custom made I guessed! I was looking all pretty for Khalid's arrival, & of course his stunning new lady!

Adding those final touches to the living room, I got a phone call from the last person I never thought would call me, Salma.

Me: Hello?

Salma was crying so hard, I got goosebumps when I heard her.

Me: Salma? What's wrong?

Salma: Can you come? Real quick? Please! I need you.

Terrified, I saw as Khalid & Mai enter the living room.

Me: Khalid! I need you to take me to 3amy Rashid's house!

I pulled out an abaya & shaila from my closet, & ran out to the car.

I called her again..

Me: Hey! I'm right outside..

Salma: The door's unlocked, come straight to my room.

She talked slowly while breathing heavily.
I opened the door to Salma laying on her stomach. Her hair was all over her face, she was in a white T shirt, her hands grabbing the sheets so tightly it felt like the sheets would fly away if she let go.

Me: Salma?

I attempted to stroke her back, but she let out a scream that made me shiver.
I pulled her shirt up, and got shocked by the patches of greens, yellows, and purples on her back. The bruises were too many..

Me: What happened?

Salma: S3eed.. S3eed happened.

Cursed With Beauty (43)

Previously:

Salma: Don't talk about protection when you're defending everybody against me.

Amal: 3asha reminded me of when Khalid used to take me on rides..

S3eed: Ahmad, tell me, what more do you know about him?
---------------

S3eed:

Ahmad said the boy had two older brothers. One had recently gotten married, the other was unemployed and hopeless.

When I went back home, a car was parked across the street, with a guy I've never seen before, trying to peek in what's inside the house..
I caught Salma running out the door.

Me: Woah, where do you think you're going?

Salma: Umm.. Mall?

Me: I don't think so!

Salma: Seriously! Let me go.

Me: Back to your room. NOW!

Salma: Go away!

I lost my temper too soon, she made me do things we both regretted..

Amal:

It didn't take long for me to get comfortable with 3asha. It felt like a girl version of Khalid with me. The laughs, the loving and caring personality.. I wondered if it really was Mai who was supposed to end up with him.. Perhaps 3asha really was the one.

It went around my head for days, but I knew I wouldn't be sure until Khalid and Mai would come back.

Sitting in the living room, Yado joined me.

Yado: Place the fruit basket on the coffee table. Where's the tea? What about the coffee? Your father couldn't possibly come back from work to nothing.

I got up instantly and started making tea and coffee.

Me: Yado, why is it so important for father to come back to coffee and tea everyday?

Yado: He works all day, the least you could do is bring him tea and coffee.

Me: But.. I go to school, watch 3osha when I'm back, who do you think cleans up?

Yado: Who pays for the school you go to? Who's 3osha's father? Who bought the house you clean?

Me: Oh..

Yado: There are small things you can give your father, don't think they're not important, for what he gives in return is much more.

Yadoh has shown me how appreciation goes and comes back around. Father gives so much, it's only fair I give back with whatever's in my ability

After the living room was set, she pulled out her sewing machine from behind the TV set..

Me: Yadoh.. What are you making?

Yadoh: Come, I'll teach you something.

Khalid:

Me: Mai, is the luggage ready?

Mai: One more bag. It just won't close!

On the bed was the last suitcase the concierge was waiting to take..

Me: Umm.. Fine, sit on it.

Mai jumped on it once, then twice, and eventually the zippers met, and the suitcase got locked.

Me: So.. Did you keep an abaya to wear?

Mai: What? No.. I'm wearing this to the airport..

Me: I don't want you wearing pants to the airport, is there an abaya in this suitcase?

Mai: Well.. Yeah, the one I wore on our way here, but I don't want to!

Me: I don't want people looking at you any differently.

Mai: Please Khalid, I don't want to wear an abaya!

Me: Fine. Whatever you say.

I walked away pulling the last suitcase.. I was just a little annoyed, I wished she'd acted upon my desires, but I didn't want to upset her.

Thing was, I had no answer to anything she talked about. "Hmm" & "yeah" were the only words coming out from me..
It bothered me more than I thought it would.

Mai: Are you ready to go back home?

I didn't answer..

Mai: I can't imagine how it'll be like moving out of my room..

I started walking faster, she wasn't able to catch up, but when I turned around..

Cursed With Beauty (42)

Previously:

Khalid: I'm sitting next to the right one..

Amal: Salma's coming to our school!
-------------

S3eed:

I had long forgotten about trying to change Salma. She was too much of a wild child for me to handle, but talking to her reminded me a lot of Saif, who I haven't heard from since the day he traveled.

I asked her to lunch, hoping I can have a good talk just to prep her up for the next school year.

Me: Listen, I know it's been rough, but it's my school your coming to. You're going by my rules, or else you go back to your old public school.

Salma: I don't want to even hear it. Let's go find a good place to eat.

When we finally sat down, ordered, and the food came, I thought it was a good time to begin, since she can't interrupt me when she's eating.

Me: Salma, let's make a deal..

Salma rolled her eyes as she was drinking her coke.

Me: Seriously Salma, just listen?

I think she felt bad, so she agreed.

Me: Date any guy you want, but NO ONE from MY school. Dare I say it, NONE of my friends.

Salma was turning her head left, then right, scanning every guy, every girl, studying everything going on around her.

Me: Salma, did you hear?

Salma: Yeah, whatever.

Me: I don't believe you..

Salma: I just don't understand why you can't trust me.

Me: Because trust is not given, it's earned!

Salma: I'm family! It's supposed to be THERE through thick and thin!! Ever since that witch told on me, I've been getting none! And what ever I say now is considered a lie either way.

Me: That was a respectful move off her trying to protect you, and NEVER call her that again.

Salma: Don't talk about protection when you're defending everybody against me. If you want to talk about respect then maybe you should have some.

She got up and left me all alone.

Khalid:

I woke up to a singing voice. I thought it might be the radio, but it echoed from the bathroom. It was a feminine voice, and the lines where interrupted by constant giggling. Right before I tried to move from the bed, I heard the bathroom door unlock..

Mai: Oh my! Did I wake you?

Amal:

Khalid and Mai were on their honeymoon, and I was all alone with no one to talk to in the house. There was 3osha running around, but that was it.

Yadoh was out, and father was at work. It was that type of day where I laid down on the couch watching T.V. while waiting, for what? I didn't even know.

Me: 3osha, I need help!

She stared at me blankly.

Me: Do you understand me?

She laughed, obviously she didn't.

Me: Want to go out?

She had already lost interest, and continued playing with her toys.

I changed and prepared 3osha's bag, then headed out the door.

I didn't know what to expect, it was my first time to take 3osha out, all alone. She was in her stroller, looking at the ceiling of the mall wide eyed, but I was afraid of what she might do next.

I took her to the toy store, & let her out of her stroller. She got exhausted with how big the place was, but her face lit up at the sight.

We left with two huge bags hanging on each handle of the stroller. I let her walk, holding on to the stroller's side, until she got tired.. It was definitely not the shopping I was used to. After just two stores she got bored and started crying whenever I tried to get into one.

I headed to the bathrooms, as according to schedules, I changed her diaper and made her a bottle. As she slept, I decided to have my dinner real quick, so that I could be home before she got up.

"Amal?" A somewhat tall lady called. Her face was covered, a young figure, with a belt over her abaya, I just stared. She took the shaila off her face only to find 3asha in front of me..

Me: 3ashaa! Esalam 3alaikmm!

3asha: Wa 3alaikm el salam.. May I join you?

Me: Sure! Have a seat!

3asha looked into the stroller and started whispering rather than talking.

3asha: I'm really impressed you were brave enough to go out all alone with her.

Me: Well yeah, it's been okay so far. I expected worse. What about you? Shopping alone?

3asha: No.. I'm dining with M7amad, he just noticed you, thought you looked a lot like Khalid!

Me: Oh..

That M7amad was the reason for so many things.. I've never met him, but I already hated him..

3asha's phone rang..

3asha: Aloo, ohh.. Ook.. Nshallah.

She turned it off and looked at me, 3asha: M7amad's got a meeting, & I have nothing to do.. Want to drive somewhere?

She reminded me of when Khalid used to take me on rides..

Me: Umm.. Sure.

S3eed:

I stayed at the farm a couple of days.. Salma refused to talk to me. Meanwhile, I drove the bike right to Ahmad's stables.

Me: Ahmaad! Ahmad where are you?

Two of the horses weren't in their stables, so I guessed he was accompanying Amal's boyfriend.

On my way back, I found them both on horses..

Ahmad: S3eed! They get scared!

I removed the keys, and hopped behind Ahmad.

Amal's boyfriend kicked his horse and went back to the stables.

Ahmad: What's going on?

Me: What? I just wanted to ride a horse with you both..

Ahmad: But you hate horses.

Me: Since when? I never said that!

Ahmad: Yes you did! Said they're the reason you're not allowed to drive your bikes?

Me: Oh right..

Ahmad: What do you want S3eed?

Me: I was wondering why he walks away whenever he sees me.

Ahmad: Well, he doesn't exactly talk for no reason.. He has no interest in small talk.

Me: The hell's wrong with him? How do you communicate with it then?

Ahmad: He's not mute you know? He talks.. Just not a lot?

Me: I think he's just stuck up.

Ahmad: That's unfair, do you know him?

Me: I already know he's a liar, probably a player too.. That's enough.

Ahmad started chuckling..

Me: What?!

Ahmad: The boy turns red when girls walk past him! A player? Hahaha!

Me: I already hate him.

Ahmad: S3eed, get off my horse, and stop accusing people of being like you.

Me: Umm, tell me, what more do you know about him? Is he dating anyone? Anything? Then I'll go, promise.

Cursed With Beauty (41)

Previously:

7amad: e7lfy enty bas you wake me up to remind me you hate me.


Mai whispered: He'll either roll his wheelchair down the aisle or walk it towards me.. Either way I'll be there, waiting..
--------
Amal:

It seemed like a black out, but a sudden spotlight hit the doors of the entrance to the ballroom. The woman stood up in impatiently, in hopes of spotting her.

To the solo of her song appeared an agile fox walking in crystalized shoes. The ballroom suddenly grew silent, everyone was starstruck by the stunning scene.

She struggled with every two steps & stopped to have a picture taken.

3asha: Help her up the stairs from the right side, I'll be on the left!

As elegantly as I could, I held the bride's right hand and lifted up the lower part of the gown for her to take a step. 3asha was on the left, smiling to me, translating a good job.

It was the time Mai stole spotlight. The second she lifted her head, the ladies held their gasps of astonishment and glee filled the room.

"Who knew such a wild child would ever decide to get settled. Poor thing the groom, he must've been living under rocks not to know about her troublesome life." said a woman as she stared at Mai in jealousy..

"Why hasn't he chosen your daughter?" asked a woman next to her.

"I've suggested that to his grandmother but, as you can tell, it wasn't agreed upon." the first woman replied.

In turns, I've asked the ladies to get on stage to have their pictures taken with the bride. 3asha was on the phone most of the times making sure everything goes smoothly.

One of the ladies pulled out a phone and started taking pictures without Mai's permission.

It wasn't anything to worry about if the bride wasn't Mai, but we weren't going to be gossiped about.

Me: 3asha! The lady!

3asha walked towards the woman and pulled the phone before she left.

3asha: Taking pictures is not allowed here.

"It's just to keep you know, or are you trying to steal my phone? Oh my! Help! Help!"

3asha: Hey! Stop. Let me erase the pictures, then do whatever you wish.

"I've been to too many weddings young lady, I know when I'm getting robbed!"

3asha: You know me too well to think that's the case, let's talk outside, NOW.

I got up on stage, smiling apologetically to Mai. Once I sat next to her, I had to know.

Me: Who is she?

"Madaam don't forget to smile!" the photographer interrupted. I smiled and got a "Magandaaa!" from her.

Mai: She's our neighbor, a gossip, and scandals are the only thing she's after.

Khalid:

I was groomed and all dressed up. I looked down at my shoes, moved my toes, and looked up to my father laughing. He helped me with my bsht and then we walked to the ballroom.

The doors opened and a light hit my face. The photographer had to use the flashlight, I was almost blinded.

Father had his hand on my back, guiding me to the stage. I looked up to see Mai look so angelic, I was blown away. Amal helped her stand, congratulated us too.

It was just a dark room of ladies dining, but sitting next to Mai, looking the way she did, made me stumble over my words.

Me: Umm.. Aaa..

Mai giggled, I thought she got it. I just sat quietly, starstruck maybe.

Mai: Usually the brides have a conversation with their grooms. Say something?

Me: Umm.. I don't know what to say..

Mai: Awkward..

She looked at the women all sitting on the tables in front of her.

Mai: Now we have to fake a conversation.. Look, we pay for all this and we don't even get to dine.

Me: Hahah!

There were two screens on both sides screening.. Well, us! Live. Then that screen changed into our childhood photos up to the engagement party.

Amal:

They were beautiful together. They didn't stop giggling and laughing.

3asha came from out the ballroom.

3asha: I cannot believe her!

Me: Oh! Yeah, what happened with her?

3asha: She's going home.

3asha had worn her shaila and abaya.

3asha: Let's go take pictures with them! They are adorable!

I was a bit hesitant, I stared right into Khalid's eyes.
He didn't get it, because 3asha covered her face with her shaila, but when she stood next to Mai, she pulled it off her face and Khalid turned his head towards me

Khalid: Don't worry. I'm sitting next to the right one.

I sighed. Yadoh came up with little 3osha, in a grey dress and a floral little tiara.

Me: 3osha, come here!

3asha: 3osha? Her name's 3asha?

Me: Umm.. Yeah! That's going to be confusing later on!

3asha: Allaaah, baby 3osha come to me!

She fell in love with 3osha. Even after taking pictures and off stage they were playing. 3osha seemed to enjoy her company as well. She had a wide smile whenever she spotted 3asha between the tables.

Once the bride and groom left, there were only the ones from our family around. 3asha was exhausted, having her dinner when it was midnight.

The rest of the night I got "Aren't you the groom's sister? I'm going to suggest you to my son!" & "You're beautiful! 38balch!"

It seemed that they all had intentions & that they believed that I had no point in life. They thought I was just waiting for a husband to "buy me."

It was a culture where ambitious women were never supported, but brought down and held back until they got married.
The myth "A woman belongs in the kitchen" was much supported, in fact, the ladies who did cook and seemed housewife-like were the first to get married.

I believed in a woman who was able to hold a house together, but also chase after her dreams. If I ever got married, I thought, I wanted someone who did not fear ambition, but would support mine instead. In the end, wasn't marriage about sharing lives? Why couldn't it be about sharing dreams and hopes as well?

Salma cut my thinking off.

Salma: Amal, guess what!?

She seemed excited.

Me: Yeah?

Salma: I'm transferring to your school!

WHAT!? Salma used to attend our school until she failed a year. 3amy Rashed got so frustrated with her, she was sent to public school, all girls, just so she could focus on her studies.

Salma: Are there any guys there for me!? I wonder!

She started daydreaming. She thought it was all a dating place?!
This couldn't be happening!

Cursed With Beauty (40)

Note:

40! I can't even believe it! Looking at previous posts and previous comments takes me down memory lane.. I need your comments and suggestions.. Thank you all.
Big love, C.B.
-----------------------
Previously:
Amal: I couldn't wait until I got on the plane. A thousand miles away from the devil himself..

Khalid: I think I just lost the best thing I ever had..

S3eed: I have to know the truth..
-----------

Amal:
One of the most depressing trips ever.
I looked up and saw the beauty of everything, but when I closed my eyes fear got the best of me. Everybody was tense and everybody had to be patient..

Khalid: Amal, are you okay?

Me: Hmm.. Yeah.

Khalid: Isn't this place great!?

Me: Aren't you scared? Aren't you mad?

The hospital back home wasn't the same. Sure it was depressing, but I enjoyed it there.. It was so gloomy here I couldn't handle it. Constant visits to the doctor, and when we were able to go out, it would already be too late.

Raindrops, cold, dark and foggy, I was only outside when the weather was horrible.

Khalid: It's okay, I'll be better soon. If not, I don't even care.

Father: Amal, you can go back to the hotel, your grandmother shouldn't be left alone..

Me: Sure..

I walked out and all that lit my way was the street lights.. Once I hopped out the bus, I heard thunder. I ran inside the hotel, inside I bumped into a tall guy..

Me: I'm sorry! I-

I looked up, and saw that wide, pearly white grin..

Me: 7amad!

7amad: Hahaha! Why are you all alone!?

Me: Umm.. Ahh long story! What, you're going out now? It's horrible outside!

My shoulders shrugged, I was rubbing my arms together in hopes of warming myself up again.

7amad: I know, I don't mind. I don't think you want to join me?

I shook my head no..

Me: Look!

I pointed at the lightening.

Me: Don't go! It's dangerous, and it's late.

7amad: Okay, okay.. I'll hang around in the lobby then.

Me: I'm all wet, I'll go change before I get sick.

It wasn't a big surprise to find him there. 3arab were everywhere in the hotel. Ladies with their dala walked around the halls frequently, who ever has the jdr would be serving dinner for the people who stayed in the entire hall.

Once I got to my room, I found, like, three old ladies sitting on the floor and yadoh was serving them coffee..
Out of nowhere, 3osha came running to me.

Me: Waaah!

I picked her up, but she pushed herself downwards, the she ran out to the hall..

Me: 3oshaaa!! Come baack!

I ran behind her. I freaked out when I lost her through the kids who also stayed in the same halls..

Me: 3osha.. 3osha.. Oh nonono!!

I found her playing with some plant placed at the end of the hall..

Me: 3oshaa! U need a bath now!

As I was scolding, I saw 7amad coming..

Me: Hehe.. Hey..

7amad: Hey.. Your floor?

Me: Yeah..

7amad: Noo! Seriously!?

Me: Yup! Our room..

I pointed at the last door in the hall..

7amad: Oh!

He pulled out a card and opened the door beside the plant placed.

Me: See you later then!

I had 3osha changed and sleeping, the hall slowly got calmer as mothers started calling their children to bed. I was in pjs as well, but I had a hard time sleeping thinking about Khalid's surgery..
Midnight cravings made it even beyond impossible to sleep. I picked up the phone on my bedside and called 7amad's room..

Someone picked up: Aloo?

A sleepy, deep voice replied.

Me: 7amad?

I whispered not to wake yado or 3osha up..

Person on the phone: Dgeega, 7amad goom, bnayh tbak 3al phone.

I wore a sarcastic smile.. Idiot. NOT IN A MILLION YEARS. Hah! I'd rather die and not even over my dead body will I ever be with 7amad that way.. Ye5! What was I even thinking!

Forgetting I was on the phone, 7amad interrupted my thoughts..

7amad: Yes Amal, what's wrong?

I heard a yawn.. At the time I'd forgotten he wasn't listening to my disgusting thoughts.. I got mad..

Me: Ye5! I hate you a9lan maba shay. Bye.

I Hung up and got into uggs and wore a hoodie over my pjs. Thinking about food I opened the door and scaring the hell out of me, 7amad was yawning, yet again, in front of me.

I gasped..

7amad: e7lfy enty bas you wake me up to remind me you hate me..

Me: Hehe.. I need food..

7amad: Call room service, why me?

He looked so tired, his eyes glistened from yawning..

7amad: Let's go to the lounge, they serve cheesecake now..

He was in a white under shirt, grey sweatpants and a black slipper..

Me: I never saw you this way..

7amad: Yeah I'm dressy even in my sleep. C'mon, I'm too tired to change..

Khalid:

Tests, checkups, more tests, and a lot of blabber about the surgery. Yeah, the doctor wanted to comfort me, but I didn't really care that much.

All I did was ping Mai a thousand times, but I never got a reply.
I was having the surgery done the next day, I needed anything from Mai, even if it was a hate message, anything.

Father: Go to bed Khalid.

Me: Enshallah..

He was laying down on the couch, he'd gotten sheets and a pillow to spend the night by my side.

I was woken up early to be changed and handled. My father had already gotten up, and most importantly, Mai was there..

She came forward and held my hand..

Mai: Whatever happens..

Me: The calls, I thought I lost you..

Mai: You didn't lose me, I lost my phone in the airport.. Our flight was delayed, but I promised to be by your side..

She kissed my hands, and let go as I was taken into the surgery room..

Amal:

Mai closed her eyes and turned around..

Me: Mai..?

She was playing with a golden bracelet around her wrists while shrugging.

Me: Father, what's going to happen?

Mai whispered: He'll either roll his wheelchair down the aisle or walk it towards me.. Either way I'll be there, waiting..

When she looked at me, she was already tearing up..

Cursed With Beauty (39)

Post note:
I'm surprised to reach this far, and sharing my story with you means the world to me.. Silent readers, I'd love to hear from you.
Love, C.B
-------------
Previously:

Amal: I pushed the brakes too fast.

Khalid: Mai won't answer me..

S3eed: I can't believe they drove to the stables!
----------------

S3eed:
Amal and Joojoo already left, I took my bike to the stables.. I started doubting Amal's story.

What if Amal and that jerk planned the entire thing and seeing him wasn't just a coincidence ?

I knew all the farms around ours, but I've never had a good look at the ones by the stables..

I stopped my bike halfway and pulled the keys with me. I walked to the stables..

I remembered they said they returned, driving on a rocky road.. I walked back trying to figure out exactly where they found him.
Wheel tracks on the rocks, broken glass steps away, I finally found where they fell off.

I looked around, it was a road that lead to endless farms.. How could Amal ever come across him coincidentally?

I stopped for a second and turned around to the sound of horses trotting.

Ahmad, the stable manager, and the jerk were both on horses..

Ahmad: S3eed, did you get your bike back?

Me: Yeah..

Ahmad: Who was she?

Me: .. Ahmad, you don't care.

Ahmad: I'm sorry.. She was just..

Amal's guy gave me an angry look and continued horse riding.

Me: Ahmad, why's he here?

Ahmad: Their farm's close. He's been a horse rider ever since he was a child.

Amal:
At Mr. Marwans Meelas I sat with Mai beside me..

Mai: This is going to haunt me forever..

Me: What will?

Mai: My past. It's not the happiest, nothing to be proud of, it's not easy.

Me: You do know Khalid already accepts that, right?

Mai: Poor thing.. It's not his fault, yet people aren't going to let him be easily..

Me: But you're willing to let the past behind!

Mai: The rest of the world won't! I don't want him to go through all that!

Me: Khalid is your fiancé, not your boyfriend. He's given so much to be with you, no one forced him.

Mai: I don't understand how the hell he even decided it was me!
Me: Well..

I told her what really happened.. I told her about his admiration towards 3asha, and how he loves her now. How Mr. Marwan planned it all. She was hurt, she cried too..

Mai: I knew it.. It's always 3ashah! They just settle for me when they can't get to her.

Me: but-

Mai: Amal.. Can you let us work the rest out?

Me: Sure..

I left late that night..
Back home Yado was sitting with baby 3oshah, how was crawling around the living room.

Me: 3oshaaaaa!!
I picked her up and she started blabbering to me.

Yado: Amal, where have you been? It's late! A very inappropriate time for a young lady to be out.

Me: I'm sorry, I was at Mai's.. They had some problems I had to fix..

As I walked with baby 3osha to my room, I over heard Khalid talking on the phone in his room..

Khalid: But.. Mai.. No! Mai.. Mai listen to me.. Mai! No!

As I stood he opened his door.

Khalid: What did you tell her!?

Me: The truth.

Khalid: No one wants the truth! You weren't meant to tell her that!

Me: Khalid! Calm down and talk to me once you're okay again!

Khalid: Calm down!? I think I just lost the best thing that ever happened to me!

Khalid:
Everything was wrong, and Amal just gave me more to worry about. How can I fix all of this!?
I needed Mai, and the flight being the next day, I had no time to get to her.

I pulled my clothes out the closet, when all I wished was to drown in bed and hate everyone.

Packing heartlessly, carelessly.. I didn't care about my legs, I wanted Mai to understand..
Amal came into my room..

Amal: Khalid..

I looked at her, and the guilt she expressed was too much for me.. I sighed and let her in.
Amal: Here, let me help.

She took the shirts from my hand and folded them into the suitcase..

Amal: How many shoes?

Me: Doesn't matter.
Amal: 5?

Me: I'm not walking anyways!

Amal: that's right.. So 5.
Me: Amaaal ..

Amal: I try to help, but I end up making everything worse.. It's not like I intend this.. At some point.. Mai had to know this..

Me: I was only hoping I got to tell her.. Amal.. Pack up and lock the luggage, tomorrow will be chaotic.

Amal: Nshalla.. I'm sorry.

She left..

S3eed:
Dad and I drove to Amal's house to drive them to the airport.. Only once we got there was I able to sit with her..

I knew she had something going on with that jerk, I knew they were dating! I just had to hear it from her.

Me: So.. Now I know why you like the farm so much..

Amal: Oh really! Tell me.

Me: That bastard's farm is two turns away.

Amal: What!? What are you talking about?!

Me: I know where his farm is.

Amal: I didn't know, I told you it was an accident!

How much denial do we have to go through..

Me: Just tell me the truth.

Amal: I lied to you not once! You're just too stupid to accept the truth.

Amal:

He pulled my arm, but I pushed it away. I was too exhausted of those interrogations. Nothing was going on, yet he insisted.
I ran to the ladies' room and started wiping away the tears that ran down my face when I got accused.

A little girl came up to me..

Girl: You're pretty!

I laughed once and started crying again.

Girl: Why are you crying?

Me: Because I'm pretty, I'm crying.

Girl: You want to be ugly?

Me: Ugliness is the most beautiful thing ever.

Girl: Is it okay if I was ugly too?

Me: Yes! Of course!

Girl: Thank you pretty lady!

She hugged me and ran out.

I got back to father and the rest..

S3eed: Don't leave them without telling them where you are again Amal, we thought we lost you.

Me: Yeah.. Sure.

I couldn't wait until I got on that plane.. A thousand miles away from the devil himself. I hated him, so much.

Cursed With Beauty (38)

Short note:
Thanks to everybody for your patience, every shred of support, your criticism, your comments. Enjoy!
Much love, CB..

Previously:

Khalid: She had it all, but she never had love.

Amal: We're staying over at 3amy Rashed's farm!

S3eed: She ended up wrapping her arms around my neck, hiding her face right under my chin..

Joojoo: I'm so sorry..
-----------

Khalid:

After trying to reach Mai, I couldn't.. She must've needed her space, so I gave her just that.. She was ashamed, regretful, but I didn't blame her for what happened last night..

Amal:

In leopard printed baggy pants, a black oversized sweater, red bottomed heels, and a plain black scarf, I walked to the back of the farmhouse where they all were chilling.

Me: Where's 3amy?

S3eed: He had to go to work, but I know how to BBq!

Salma had just met Joojoo and they seemed to hit it off great, so I sat on the chair next to S3eed.

S3eed: Should I get everything ready now?

Me: Get the bbq heated, I'll get the food.

S3eed: Oh, in the freezer.

I walked back inside to the kitchen, Joojoo followed me..

Joojoo: I think I love your cousin!

Me: S3eed!? Seriously!

Joojoo: Amal! I meant Salma!

Me: My God! Made my heart drop.

Joojoo: Idiot!

She helped me with the meat and we got back to S3eed.

I got out to Salma unveiling a huge stereo. Songs played so loud, S3eed rocked to the beat, Joojoo clapped and shouted while I simply laughed..

I woke up before the sun came out. I was in the living room with Joojoo beside me. I didn't remember how I got there, in fact I was in the same clothes of the night before.

I got up, picking up my heels from the floor I tip toed to the room I usually stayed in.

I freshened up, and from the window I saw the garage doors open. One of the farmers just left, but beside the cars parked a beautiful four wheeled motor bike.. I ran back to Joojoo cautiously..

Me: Joojoo get up!

Joojoo: What now?

Me: There's a bike outside!

Joojoo: Amal what time is it? Why are you up?

She had a hard time getting up..

Me: It's just 5 AM! C'mon get up!

Joojoo: Amaaal! Why?!

Me: Get up! Pray el fajr we're going on a ride!

Joojoo: Okay, okay bas chub shway.

She got up in her own pace, and I helped her to the bathroom.

I guessed it was S3eed's bike, so I snuck into his room to find it's keys. I was dark, curtains closed, so I couldn't find my way easily. I turned the flash light through my phone..

It wasn't in his dresser, nor the closet. I slowly got to his bed's side tables, but when I flashed the light on him, I realized he was in just shorts.

He had his arms crossed, shivering.. The air conditioner was blowing right at him.. Suddenly, Joojoo shocked me by hugging me from behind.

I gasped, and S3eed rolled over.. I exchanged facial expressions with her until she understood what I was looking for.

She didn't help, she just stood right in front of him. When I finally found the key I pinched her and ran out..

Me: Joo, to the garage.

I whispered from outside his bedroom door.

S3eed:

The girls slept on the couches outside last night.. I managed to pull them into the living room, I wasn't able to do more than that though.

I was sleeping but I felt soft hands pulling the sheets on my body. I was cold but I was too tired to move. Those same warm hands held my face gently and they slid off smoothly.

I barely heard thuds from my closets, but when I got up the closet doors were closed and the door was shut. I went back to sleep.

Amal:

I was already on the bike when Joojoo came with a helmet and a biker jacket. I took the helmet and she wore the jacket.

We got out the farm and I drove and drove and kept driving. The wind blew against my chest, I felt like my heart being liberated. Joojoo had one arm to the side, the other around my waist.

We stopped beside a horse stable. Joojoo got off and started petting one.

A man came out of no where going: S3eed! Haven't I told you not to come around here!? You know the horses are afraid.

He walked straight up to me shouting and cussing, so I took the helmet off.
He paused wearing a confused expression.

Man: The hell are you?

I was still in surprise of having a stranger shout that way to me, I just stared.

When I heard dog barks I got worried.

Man: Oh no, I let Lucy out..

Joojoo hopped on, and I drove so fast. Joojoo held on tight, I closed my eyes and screamed but the helmet held it in. Joojoo laughed so hard but it stopped being funny when Kovu stood far in front of us.

I pushed the breaks too fast.

S3eed:

They weren't anywhere near the farm, and my bike was gone. I drove around with the farmer in car looking for them. At lunch time we had to go back home. I gave up..

In the farmhouse, they were sitting on the couch looking almost guilty..

Me: Where have you been?

Amal: We took your bike..

Me: When was that?

Amal: Dawn.

Me: Why didn't you ask me?

Amal: Because we're not allowed to drive them.

Me: Because you could hurt yourself!

Amal: Umm..

Me: What?

Amal: Well..

Me: WHAT!?

Amal: We kind of flipped over..

Me: WHAT!? How? Did you hurt. Yourself?

Amal: My arms are bruised, Joojoo jumped off but her palms bled..

Me: Joojoo..?

Joojoo: I landed on broken glass..

Me: How did you even do that!?

Amal: Lucy was let go..

I couldn't believe they went to the stables! I was extremely mad, I didn't want any trouble so I just stormed to my room. After calming down I when to the kitchen to have lunch with them. Amal left the table to eat alone.

Me: Listen, I'm sorry..

Joojoo: Don't blame Amal, I don't even know why I let her do it..

Me: Could you tell me what happened?

She started talking about finding that boy I once beat up, standing in the middle of the rocky road. I didn't tell them about the bad breaks on my bike..

Me: Well.. Are you ok?

Joojoo: Yeah, be worried about Amal..

She finished her lunch and left.

Amal:

Joojoo picked up her phone, and she looked at me with the most freaked out expression ever. Once she hung up she screamed.

Joojoo: Amal! Mom wants to pick me up! Amaaal !!

Me: Call her back tell her we'll get you back home! Now!

I sat back thinking about Kovu.. He stood straight, I looked into his eyes and for the first time I saw a look that wasn't familiar..
How his face changed when I took the helmet off, on the ground I lay holding the pain in my arm..

Suddenly Khalid called me..

Me: Hey! What's up?

Khalid: Where are you?

Me: At the farm.

Khalid: I need your help..

Khalid was out with Mai when one of the men she dated came up to her.. "You're settling for this? A piece of trash?" Mai was enraged about it, though Khalid said he didn't even care about that comment. Mai held Khalid's hand tighter when he said that.. Khalid thinks she might be feeling guilty..

Cursed With Beauty (37)

Before I continue:

School & exams took a lot of my time, but that did not stop me from writing. I apologize for the delay.. Enjoy!
----------------
Previously:

Joojoo: He's leaving!

Saif: I guess I don't love her.

Khalid: Was she just practicing what she's always been doing?
---------
Amal:

I was at the library to return one more book I actually read voluntarily.. I noticed that there was only one window there..
Huge, old, scratched.. It was dusty, behind intact curtains.
With three fingers, I swiped to see what the view was of..
It was of a dark colored hair, wide wondrous smile, a face that lit up at my sight..

I was pulled back by shyness, I had a smile I couldn't get rid of, nor could I hide.
When I looked again, he still smiled, only to the ground.. He looked up again and stared deep into my eyes.

I crossed my arms to stop my stomach from fluttering, took a deep breath as I'd forgotten to do so.. My Kovu was there, I didn't need air.

Khalid:

Mai... I second guessed, tried with all my power to see if she really meant anything she said.
I didn't know whether I should trust her or not, I didn't want to be a fool. I simply couldn't fall for her.

Father: Does Amal know? Don't forget to tell her to start packing.

Me: Nshallah..

Father: And you know that Mr. Marwan will join us there?

Me: Yes.

Father: This determines so much of your future, I hope you understand.

Me: This makes me or breaks me..

Father: But you're strong. Whatever happens you remain my son, my pride and joy.

I really didn't know what there was to feel proud of. I wouldn't blame him if he thought of me as a failure. My immature behavior and irresponsibility lead to the loss of not just my ability to move, but also the ability to be all I can be.

I took my body for granted and I only knew what it's worth only after losing it.

S3eed:

Saif was all packed up, ready to leave. I just didn't want my summer to begin with the departure of a good friend.
I smiled to his face, sighed in disappointment only when he looked away. I also couldn't imagine how Joojoo felt.
She must've been confused and broken. I felt twice as bad when I thought of her.

Me: When are you coming back?

Saif: I might not.

Me: What about Christmas break?

Saif: I don't know.

Me: Won't you ever visit?

Saif: What about my girlfriend?

Me: Since when did you have one?

Saif: I don't, but until then I should have one.

Me: Joojoo will miss you..

Saif: She'll forget about me. Shut up. Why are we talking about her anyways..

In the middle of the airport we stood, his dad was checking the luggage in.
It was the final goodbyes, but it wasn't just us saying goodbye..

It was a wife saying goodbye to her husband, a girl waving with tears in her eyes as she saw her sister leave, and then there were us..
Standing still like statues, smiling but we're scared. We didn't know what would happen next, if we'd be meeting up again. So would we keep in touch? It seemed that Saif wasn't even going to try..

Amal:

In my room she cried, ice cream buckets and the TV on playing a chick flick.. All I managed to do was listen to her, & hug her when she fell apart.

When she finally calmed down, she began..

Joojoo: He hates me.. I hate myself..

I stayed quiet in hopes of her subconsciously explaining why she's saying that.

Joojoo: I don't know..

I hugged her silently..

Joojoo: You lost someone too, but I never see you cry.. You're so strong.. How?

Me: She's with God now, she's far from pain and hurt.. If I miss her, I try to remember everything I hated about her.. Sometimes when they leave, only then do you remember how much good they brought to you, but you'd also forget all the bad..

Joojoo: There's not a flaw in him.. What bad is he?

Me: Well.. Maybe you could've stayed with him until you got bored of him.. Problems would be created, you might hate him! You could've fought like married couples do.. A happy ending just the beginning of misery..

Joojoo: But with all that, at some point you might just move on knowing you need them.

Me: I needed her! I needed a female figure, especially at that time. If it wasn't tough enough she's gone, no one was there to help me.

Joojoo saw me tearing up, and so she joined me.. We slept that night like babies.

Khalid:

I visited Mr. Marwan's meelas at night as Mai invited me for dinner. When she talked, my thoughts shouted. When she smiled, my thoughts grinned. I wasn't sure at all about what she had in mind..

Mai: Khalid what's wrong?

Me: I don't.. I just can't think straight..

Mai: How about we go out somewhere?

Me: I can't.. Umm.

Mai: Oh! Don't worry, I can drive..

Me: What a husband I must be..

I sighed hopelessly..

Mai: You are the first to let me give instead of get..

Me: Give? What do you mean?

Mai: The other.. Guys.. The ones I've dated, they'd never let me drive because I was a girl.
They wouldn't let me pay for dinner because I was a girl, but with you Khalid I can prove I can do everything you can, and it's not even optional!

When she said that, a brand new point of view appeared in my head.. An independent woman who didn't need me, but wanted me. She had it all, but she never had love.

It felt weird knowing that if I wasn't there, she'd still manage. I could depend on her to manage a house one day..

So, we went..

Amal:

The next day, I got a call from 3amy Rashed..

3amy: Mabrooook Amaal! You're done!

Me: Allah ybark feek!

3amy: We'll sleep over at the farm tonight! We got junk food and we'll barbecue outside at night!

Me: Sounds good! When should I come!?

3amy: I'm coming to pick you up right now!

Me: Now!? But my friend's with me..

3amy: She sleepover if she wants! Your room at the farm has 2 beds anyways!

Me: Great, I'll tell her..

I hung up.. Joojoo was still sleeping.

Me: Joojoo, Joojoo? Can you get up?

Joojoo: Hmm?

She opened one eye..

Joojoo: What's wrong?

Me: Nothing, umm we're sleeping over at S3eed's farm..

Joojoo: WHAT!? My mother will never allow it!

Me: Umm, tell her you're sleeping over at our house again!

Joojoo: I don't know.. I-

Me: Oh! C'mon it's not summer everyday!

Joojoo: But-

Me: But nothing! Call her, now!

Joojoo did so, her mother didn't mind as usual..

Me: YES YES! Now pack up!

Joojoo: Wait I didn't get my entire closet you know!

Me: Take anything from mine.

We packed real quick, and the next thing we knew, we were in 3amy's vintage Range Rover ..

3amy: I updated it! Look there's a radio on it now!

I laughed and turned in up to let the music express our joy, I wore my Dior sunglasses, circular with the cat eye edges, taking that exact moment in.

S3eed:

They came, I went to open their doors. Amal jumped out, she knew how high the car was. Joojoo, who I was surprised to see, hesitated to get off.
I offered my hand, she took it, but her foot slipped. She ended up with her arms around my neck, hiding her head right under my chin, and the rest of her I carried.

Joojoo whispered: Omg! Omg I'm so sorry..

I put her down, but her eyes were still closed.

Me: Are you okay?

Joojoo tried to avoid looking at me: Yeah, I'm sorry..

She ran to Amal who was already by the farm house's door..

Cursed With Beauty (36)

Previously:

Khalid: Mai called me telling me she wanted to postpone the wedding..

Joojoo: No one can replace Saif's place in my heart!

Saif: You might as well be her boyfriend. You care more than I do.

Dr: Now the hospital has some news for you..
--------------------
Amal:

They were the last days of school that only included being given the report cards and making the best of it.
It was the time seniors pulled pranks on the teachers and made the juniors promise to do the same.

Many cried about leaving, but all I thought about was how stupid they were for crying about being freed from hell.
It was a hot day but my hands were freezing from being placed under the air conditioner.. I left class for lunch and as I walked, my hand suddenly got warmer..

It was Kovu sitting on one of the tables looking straight at me. I held my hands together showing him that if it was possible, I'd be holding his hands aswell..

Kovu is a very quiet & calm person, something I stopped being since this year.. I've had enough to deal with but I'm glad 7amad was here.
If it wasn't for his annoyance I'd be completely confused, and very misunderstood.

Suddenly, Joojoo came crying..

Joojoo: Amal! He's leaving!

Me: What? Who's leaving?

Joojoo: Saif, he's going away! He's transferring into a school in America!

Me: But.. Why?

Joojoo: I don't know, I really don't! I just don't want this to happen! Please, don't let it happen!

She cried harder, trying to gasp for air at times. She was broken, but I tried to hug her not to fall apart.

S3eed:

Me: Is that why you did it to Joojoo?

Saif: I already told you why.

Me: No, that doesn't make sense at all. What idiot would just break up with someone he loves and hurt himself for no reason?

Saif: Look S3eed, I'm a terrible person. This won't change because, unfortunately, I don't mind being the horrible person I am. I don't want to change, but I don't want Joojoo hurting from me.

Me: You can change for someone you love.

Saif: Well I guess I'm not in love with Joojoo.

No.. I didn't talk to Joojoo after that. Though she did need an explanation, I, myself, didn't understand what Saif meant by all this.

Khalid:

 Our flight's been booked, the day Amal's done with her school is the day we'll be heading to the airport.
We'll be going to Munich and stay at the hospital for a while.. I didn't know if it was going to be a positive act or not. I didn't know what the hospital had in plan for me.

Mai called,

Mai: Did you talk to your father?

Me: Yeah.. We'll be going very soon..

Mai: I talked to mine and we'll be going with you!

Me: But.. We'll spend most of the time at the hospital.. That would be depressing.

Mai: What are you saying!? I'm your fiancé, I have to support you through everything.

Me: Really? You can go shopping or something?

Mai: I'm not going all the way to Munich for nothing, my future husband's much more important to me.

Me: I'll be honest, maybe blunt, but I'm kind of surprised you'd waste some of your own summer for me.

Mai: Are you kidding? I'd be more than happy to do so!

We talked for a while and when she closed the line, it hit me..
Mai's talked to a thousand before me.
Was she just practicing what she's always been doing? What if it was only someone new there she wanted to meet.. Why would she ever stick to someone like me!?

Cursed With Beauty (35)

Previously:

Amal: I wondered if Kovu and I ever stood a chance.
Saif: It would suck to be your friend..
Khalid: I really think Mai's a good person!
----------------------
Khalid:

All of a sudden, Mai called me telling me she wanted to postpone the wedding..

Me: Is everything ok?

Mai: Yeah! No, it's not like that! Umm.. Can I just talk later?

Me: But-

Mai: bye!!

She hung up on me..

Amal:

Though I kept quiet, I saw what Joojoo meant. I really needed her in my life..

I listened to her, helped her, supported her. After a couple of weeks she finally opened up..

Joojoo: I know this is random.. I didn't want to tell you this at first, but, Amal you kind of changed!

Me: Umm.. Is that bad?

Joojoo: No! I was kind of upset before.. I was bothered that you were never there for me.
You always judged what I do, always making me feel like I'm just a huge mistake.

Me: All I know's that you're one of the most important people in my life. I don't believe I'm judging you as much as I'm trying to protect you.. You see I've grown a bit over protective.. I don't know if it's like that because I lost someone already or because of S3eed and how he is.

Joojoo: Oh no! S3eed is the most supportive, most caring and kind person ever!

Me: AYH! Ewww! Why are you saying that!? Is it not enough he tried to lock me up?

Joojoo: With you he's different. He listens to me, make me feel better when I need someone to do so!

Me: Joojoo that's my job! I'm the one you're supposed to call the second you stop being happy!

Joojoo: Yeah! I've been feeling guilty about not telling you, but he's a really nice person to talk to!

Me: This is not another relationship is it!?

Joojoo: No! We're just friends! There you go again trying to make me feel bad! It happened once but no one can replace Saif's place in my heart!

Me: I'm sorry! I just cannot let you hurt yourself again!

Joojoo: I'm really glad you care.. I didn't know you wanted me to be safe.. Thank you Amal, and I'm so sorry!

It was all better again..

S3eed:

Saif seemed torn up, and he whenever I was around he tried to act like nothing is going on..
He sleeps all day, and wherever we go at night it's as if he's lifeless.

Me: Why won't you just talk to her?

Saif: She'll be too close to me again.. It'll hurt her even more.

Me: You're crazy. You want her but you don't want her to like you.. WHY?

Saif: Did I not tell you? I'm a bad person. She needs someone better than me.

Me: Who could possibly better?

Saif: Stop asking! You might as well be her boyfriend. You care more than I do.

Me: I'd never. Saif you're my guy!! How could I possibly hurt you.

Saif: Haha! Well yeah. Can we stop talking about Joojoo?

Me: Alright alright..

Khalid:

Since summer was coming soon I had to ask father about the plan.. Mai postponed the wedding and we were staying in the country to have it..
When I told my father what Mai decided, but he wasn't bewildered at all.. It was as if women postponed their weddings everyday!

Father: Yes, well I was the one to decide this.. Khalid there's something more important right now..

Me: What is it?

Father: I'd received calls from the hospital.. There are more procedures that need to happen, but enshallah it's all positive. You have an appointment next week.

That week did not want to come.. It was the most tiring, restless, stressful week I'd ever gone through.. Mostly, what made it hard was the worry.. Recalling what the doctor said.. "You can no longer walk.. Your request to jog is simply impossible.. "

The day I had the accident ruined my entire life.

In the doctor's office. This was what he said..

Dr: We sent your files to a hospital outside the country.. This was something your father wanted. Now they've got some news for you..