Chapter Six The Jealous Wives (Continuation)

 Chapter Six 

The Jealous Wives (Continuation)

As time passed, Ameera went through more hardship than she ever imagined. She had no one to lean on. Her husband was often away from home because of work, leaving early in the morning and returning late at night. Inside the house, Ameera was left alone with all the responsibilities. She worked endlessly—cleaning, cooking, washing, caring for the children—while the other wives went out for their jobs and returned tired but free from household burdens.

Many days, Ameera felt like a servant in her own home. Her body ached, her hands were always rough, and her heart was heavy. Yet she never complained. She reminded herself that Allah sees even the smallest effort done in silence. She chose strength over bitterness and patience over anger.

Time moved on, and then Allah tested the household again in a different way.

Sakina, who had once lost her child, became pregnant again.

This time, fear filled her heart. Memories of her loss haunted her. She became weak, both physically and emotionally. And when the time came, she gave birth to a child once more.

Surprisingly, it was Ameera who stood beside her.

Maryam, whom Sakina called a friend, did not stay long. She visited briefly and left. She made excuses—work, tiredness, responsibilities. But Ameera remained. She cooked for Sakina, cleaned her room, washed the baby’s clothes, and stayed awake at night when the child cried.

One night, as Ameera gently rocked the baby, Sakina watched her silently. Guilt began to creep into her heart.

Later, when the house was quiet, Sakina spoke.

“Why are you doing all this?” she asked coldly, though her voice lacked strength.

Ameera looked at her calmly. “Because you are my sister in faith, and you just gave birth.”

Sakina frowned. “After everything I have said about you? After all the insults?”

Ameera nodded. “Yes.”

Sakina’s voice rose. “Do you think this will erase what happened to my first child?”

Ameera’s eyes filled with tears. “I have never harmed you, Sakina. Allah knows.”

Sakina turned away, angry and confused. “You pretend too much.”

Ameera replied softly, “I am not pretending. I only fear Allah.”

Sakina suddenly burst out, “You made my life miserable! I accused you, insulted you, and still you stand here like nothing happened!”

Ameera’s voice shook. “Do you know how many nights I cried? Do you know how many times you called me a witch?”

Sakina was silent.

“I worked like a slave in this house,” Ameera continued. “I stood by you when everyone else left you. Even now, when you needed help, I was the one here.”

Sakina’s eyes filled with tears. “Why didn’t you fight back?”

Ameera whispered, “Because patience is my weapon.”

Sakina covered her face and cried. “I treated you badly.”

Ameera stepped closer. “I forgive you.”

Sakina looked up, shocked. “Just like that?”

“Yes,” Ameera replied. “For the sake of Allah.”

Sakina sobbed. “I was blind. Hatred destroyed my heart.”

Ameera placed the baby gently on the bed. “May Allah heal all our hearts.”

For the first time in a long while, Sakina felt ashamed. She realized that while hatred had consumed her, Ameera had been standing firm—alone, patient, and sincere.

But though Sakina’s heart softened that night, the wounds of the past were still deep, and the house was still fragile. Ameera returned quietly to her duties, knowing that forgiveness does not erase pain overnight, and that patience often walks a long road before relief finally arrives.

To Be Continue Inshallah..... 

©AHMAD ZAHIR ENAGI ABU KHALIF