Amina
I don't know how long I sat there numbly. Nabil was still by my side exhaling breath every now and then. I know he only kept quite because he wants me to calm down alone and that gesture is sure enough for me. Without much strength in my body, I finally muster up the courage to stand up. Nabil helped me up. “I’m fine okay?” the words came out as a question.
“No you're not. I can see it in your eyes. You're just holding it in” okay I might say I'm okay yet, I know I'm not. The revelation still shook me to the core. I didn't answer only tried to find my way to the door but he was quick to stop me by holding my arm.
“You’re not okay Amina” he ushered spinning me around that I was facing me.
“I’m fine you have nothing to worry about. I will get through this” I hoarsely let out but he wasn't ready to let me go instead he tighten his hold on my arm.
“I have to worry. It's necessary for me to worry about you. About everything” We stared at each other's eyes. I found myself completely off the zone. I stare deeply into them as if my life depended on it. The beating of my heart that was once calm picked up it pace. Nothing matters at that moment. Only our warm breathing cascading throughout the room.
I was the first to break the eye contact. “You don't have to Nabil. This is about me. My life. I don't want you to get involve in this. I can take care of it myself” Since all that has happened has to do with me, I think it's better if I sort it out myself. I don't want him to get entangle with my trouble when he has a handful already.
“Okay that's it then. It's about your life. Then what about me? Do you really think I'm okay with what happened. Had I not ask you to bring the file, nothing of such would have happened. At least he wouldn't have mistaken our conversation as a proof. And now you want to take the blame. Amina look-” he leaped forward and my foot were quick to retreat back. I have almost forgotten it's inappropriate for him or me to touch him.
“I know. But originally I wouldn't have seen the file even if you didn't ask for it. I can't fail to understand what is going on. Why is this happening to me? I'm not the only one in the office but why is he pointing fingers at me. I don't.... I” a sob escaped my mouth.
“This is complicated that is why I want to solve it on my own. Your identity is still hidden so getting you involve might make matters worse and I don't want to be the reason why your mission failed. I just can't” I turned to leave and just as I place my hand on the handle, his words strike me to a halt.
“Who are you?” he said. His voice in all seriousness. “Who are you to tell me what to do. I don't care about what will happen. This issue is about you. About me. About us. I know Ahmad won't take this lightly by the look on his face. I have a feeling something big is coming. But we can solve everything. Together”
“We’ll overcome this together. Please just don't put the burden on yourself only” his voice was closer to my ear. I inhale a sharp breath. I slowly turned to him letting out a small smile. “I don't know what's in store for us later or tomorrow but we'll try”
“Insha Allah. Shall we? I know you must be tired” I only nodded feeling some kind of nervousness crept into me. I know my co-workers will probably look at me differently.
And it did happen. The moment the door was pulled open, we were met with Fareeda and Nonso right in front of the room. “Um..Hi” Cindy was the first to talk followed by Fareeda who nodded her head with a smile.
“Hi” I answered back.
“Look Amina, I know what happened has shaken you as much as it did to us. I will speak to Mr.Ahmad I know this isn't the truth. I trust your hard work. It must've been a misunderstanding. I don't -” I was quick to cut her off.
“Its okay. Thank you for having your trust in me. I believe that the truthful one will never be destroyed. Thank you. I will now take my leave see you tomorrow” I offered out a smile and I could swear I saw a hint of sadness in her face.
We were about to walk past her when Fareeda's voice revamped to my ear. “Wait!” She almost pushed on Nabil due to her fast strides. “Your bag”
“Thank you” I almost forgot my bag. Grabbing it from her outstretched hands, I slid it on my shoulder. “Good night” I said.
“Night Amina. Please don't let that get to you. We have our trust in you. I know Mr.Ahmad will sort things out” only if she knew. I nodded in answer then turned around and made our way down. I could feel their gaze on us. I won't say I was expecting them to believe me yet, their words kind of gave me strength. At least, they have their trust in me.
As we got in the elevator, I released out a breath I didn't know I was holding. I must say today is indeed one of the bad and unfortunate day in my life. I only want one thing and that is to see my mama. To cry in her shoulder. And hear her tell me everything will be fine. To tell me everything will soon pass but I know that will not come anytime soon. I have to clear my name from the misunderstanding first.
“Remember we're in this together” I heard Nabil's voice. The only answer I could give is a smile.