chapter six 
The news came on a quiet Sunday evening. Ubeid and Asiya had been trying to conceive for over a year, and despite their best efforts, nothing seemed to work. After a series of tests, the doctors delivered a verdict that shook both families: Asiyawas infertile. When Abbah and Ummah heard the news, their disappointment was palpable. For months, they had anticipated the news of the arrival of a grandchild and the continuation of the family lineage.

“Ubeid, this is not easy for any of us,” Abbah said during a family meeting. “But it is Allah’s will, and we must accept it.”

“I understand, Abbah,” Ubeid replied, his voice heavy with emotion. “Asiya and I have talked about it, and we’re willing to do whatever it takes to find a solution.”

“Ubeid,” Ummah interjected, her tone firm but compassionate, “Asiya remains your wife, but you must take another as I feel it is the only way forward.”

Asiya, sitting quietly beside Ubeid, finally spoke up. “I have no objection to this, Ubeid. I only want your happiness and the family’s blessings.” Though the decision was made, finding a second wife proved challenging. Ubeid, ever the perfectionist, wanted someone who could fit seamlessly into the family.

Abbah called Ummah into their room one evening and said. “I’ve noticed something,” he began cautiously.

“What is it?” Ummah asked, narrowing her eyes.

“It’s about Amira,” he said. “I’ve seen how she looks at Ubeid. Her feelings are clear, even if she’s tried to hide them.”

Ummah’s face hardened. “You can’t be serious, Abbah. Amira is our daughter, and Ubeid... he’s practically her brother.”

“But he’s not her brother,” Abbah countered. “And if it makes her happy, why not consider it? She’s a good girl. She’ll make a fine wife and mother.”

Ummah remained silent, but her conflicted expression revealed her inner turmoil.

Months had passed by and there was still no progress on the wife search. Ummah entered my room with an unusual expression on her face. She sat on the edge of my bed and gestured for me to sit beside her.

“Amira,” she began, her voice soft but serious, “there’s something we need to discuss.”

“Yes, Ummah?” I asked, my heart racing with anticipation.

She hesitated for a moment before continuing. “How would you feel... if you were to marry Ubeid?” Her words hit me like a thunderclap. “What? Ummah, are you serious?”

“I am,” she said, taking my hand in hers. “I don’t like the idea, Amira. But I’ve seen the way you look at him, and I know how you feel. If this is what will make you happy, then so be it.”Tears welled up in my eyes. “Ummah, I’ve loved him for so long, but I never thought... I never imagined this could happen.”

“Abbah spoke to me about it,” she admitted. “He believes it’s the right thing to do, and I’m starting to agree with him. But this decision is yours to make.” I nodded, unable to speak through the lump in my throat.

Later that day, Abbah called Ubeid into his study.

“Ubeid, I’ve been thinking,” Abbah began. “You need a second wife, and I believe Amira might just be the best choice.”

Ubeid looked stunned. “Amira?” he repeated, as if trying to process the idea.

“Yes,” Abbah said firmly. “She’s of age, she’s intelligent, and she already knows and respects you.”

Ubeid lowered his gaze, deep in thought. “If this is what you and Ummah believe is best, then I’ll do it. But only if Amiraagrees.”

“She has,” Abbah confirmed. “Now it’s up to you to make it work.”