“Alina jaan,” he whispers. “Can you hear me?” I scrunch my eyes in pain. “Okay, sweetheart. Okay. I’m here. I’m right here.” With unwavering patience, Azeer waits by my side as I struggle to stop the seizure. I think he starts mumbling the exact words Mama does—a prayer. I don’t know. I can’t comprehend anything. Gently, he wraps his hand around my left ankle, his thumb caressing it tenderly. I suck in a deep breath.
☹️❤️🩹
