Chapter 397

• Ahsan turned away from the window and the uninspiring view of snow-covered moors and found Hazem staring up at him, his chocolate-brown eyes wide with curiosity. He knelt down slowly, so he was level with the toddler's gaze, and pain tugged at his chest.The little boy bore a marked resemblance to both his parents, and the sight of his small, lively face and impish grin made the tragedy of Farhan and Farrah’s untimely deaths seem even more poignant.
• The anger and bitterness that had eaten away at Ahsan for six long years released its grip on his heart and was replaced by a new emotion that was unexpectedly fierce. Love—pure and uncomplicated—flooded through him, and he reached out and stroked Hazem’s cheek with fingers that shook slightly.
• Farhan’s little son was an orphan, but he would never feel alone or unloved. He, Ahsan, would make sure of that. Because of his stubborn pride, he had left it too late to be reconciled with his brother, but he would love his nephew as if he were his own child. Hazem belonged in Qubbah, and nothing would prevent Ahsan from taking him home.