Chapter 4A

Upon waking up and knowing that Billy and his mom were coming over, I dressed up properly to make them feel welcome. I prepared some pancakes and a cup of coffee, aiming to create a homey atmosphere. I then woke up my husband with a gentle kiss on the forehead.

Afaf - Wake up, sweetheart. It’s a bit late.

Ghanzi - I’ll be right up, love.

As my husband got ready, I found my daughter downstairs.

Afaf - Good morning, princess. How was your sleep?

Fateen - It was alright. Did you make pancakes? Is there a special occasion today?

Afaf - Well, actually yes. Billy and his mother are coming to have breakfast with us this morning.

Fateen - Are they? Sweet!

She seemed excited at the news. I think she has developed a liking for Billy’s mom, but I worry about her relationship with her father.

Afaf - Listen, sweetie, about your dad, you know he means well and loves you, right?

Fateen - Ugh, mom, can we not talk about him? I’ve heard it all before, but I’m starting to not like him that much...

At that moment, the doorbell rang, and before I could open the door, my husband was already there, greeting our guests.

Ghanzi - Morning, can I help you?

Afaf - Morning, Anna! Nice to meet you. Come in, come in! Just head straight to the kitchen, you’ll find my daughter there.

Anna - Thank you!

Billy - Morning, sir! Morning, Afaf!

After they went to the kitchen, I explained to my husband what was happening.

Afaf - Billy’s mom wanted to meet her son’s tutor, and I told them they could have breakfast with us today. I forgot to tell you last night after ... well, you know, the fight you had with Fateen.

I’m sorry, love. Was I wrong to invite them?

Ghanzi - I ... No ... It’s okay. I just wish I had known earlier. I’ve been a little stressed lately ... Sorry for last night ... I’ll apologize to Fateen soon too.

Afaf - Don’t worry, love. You did nothing wrong. I just want you to understand how she feels. It’s hard for her. Now, do you want some pancakes?

Ghanzi - Of course I do!

In the kitchen, we all talked and got to know each other. My daughter was right, Anna is a sweetheart. It’s so pleasant to be around her. I couldn’t believe what Billy had asked me to do. How could he even think to do such a thing to a woman whose soul radiates light like an angel, matched by her angelic appearance?

Anna - You have such a lovely family, Afaf. Thank God you’re my son’s tutor. He’s in good hands!

Billy - Trust me, Mom, I really am.

As he said that, he looked at me and smirked.

Anna - Your daughter is also very nice! She’s respectful and cute. Maybe she and Billy could start something.

Ghanzi - I’m not sure about that. My daughter has to marry a Muslim. It’s our tradition.

Anna - Ah, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to offend.

Ghanzi - It’s not that...

Ghanzi gave Anna a closer look, almost freezing in his tracks. The way he looked at her, almost with his mouth open, made me feel a mixture of discomfort and jealousy. It had been a long time since my husband looked at me like that.

Ghanzi - Ah, don’t worry about it. You didn’t offend anyone. Sorry if it came out wrong.

Anna - Your family is so wonderful overall. Well, can I offer you a day of shopping? I usually go alone to buy clothes, but it’s a bit boring on my own.

I would love to bring all of you, my treat, of course!

Ghanzi - No need, we...

Billy - Please, take my mom’s offer. It would be a great experience for her.

Anna - Billy! You’re making me look bad! It’s not like I don’t have other friends or...

Billy - But she doesn’t ... Mom doesn’t like a lot of people around here. They’re all fake and jerks.

Fateen - I would love to, but ... my dad...

Ghanzi was looking at Anna, who was now embarrassed and looking down. Then he looked at me, and I gave him an approving nod. Of course, I was doing it more for Billy’s sake than for myself.

Ghanzi - Well, I can’t say no to such a sweet woman like yourself, can I?

Anna - Then is a deal!

After a little more conversation, my son woke up and joined us downstairs.

Anna - Look who decided to join the land of the living, the sleeping prince.

Faud - Good morning, everyone. What’s going on?

Ghanzi - Your mom invited Anna and Billy over for breakfast this morning. It took me by surprise too.

Anna - I hope it’s a pleasant surprise.

Ghanzi - Well, of course.

My husband glanced at Anna again, and Billy noticed the interaction. He then winked at me, as if signaling that he had noticed my husband’s interest.

Ghanzi - They also managed to convince me to let you guys go shopping with them. Anyway, I have to head to work now. You three enjoy yourselves, and it was a pleasure meeting you, Anna.

You have a wonderful son here.

Anna - Hopefully, we’ll see each other again soon.

Ghanzi left the house without giving so much as a hug, but there was a noticeable smile on his face. His interaction with Anna seemed to have brightened his day.

Anna - So shall we? Come on Faud go get changed.

Billy - You know what, I think Faud might not enjoy going shopping with you girls. So I’ll stay back with him for a while and then head home. You girls can have some quality girl time.

This must be his plan, I wonder what he has in mind to do.

Anna - Hmm, just us girls? That sounds like a fantastic idea! What do you both think?

Afaf - I’m not entirely sure...

Fateen - I actually think it’s a great idea!

Anna - Come on, Afaf! We’re going to have an absolute blast!