Chapter 35 Lock him out
Amrah
I grabbed my phone and opened my messages. Chris's name was still at the top of my recent conversations, our last exchange from days ago still unanswered.
Without another thought, I blocked his number. Then I went through every social media app, every platform where we were connected, and blocked him there too.
Each time I tapped the blocked button, I felt a little lighter, a little freer.
When I was done, I called Edison.
"Miss Amrah," he answered on the second ring, his voice professional as always.
"Is everything alright?"
"I need you to arrange for a new door to my apartment," I said.
There was a brief pause. "A new door, miss? Is there something wrong with the current one?"
"Just get me a new door, Edison. With a durable smart lock. I want it changed today."
"Of course, miss. I'll arrange it immediately."
"Thank you."
I hung up and tossed the phone onto my side. A new door was a necessity because my keys were still with Chris. So ironic and stupid that I trusted him so much and I don't even know the password to his apartment.
No more Chris or some stupid hidden relationship.
And no more Zayd either.
The thought of Zayd made my chest tighten in a way I didn't want to think about. I know had started developing feelings for him, it might have started as curiosity after the game, and then the more we got closer the more I couldn't stop thinking about him.
I could still remember the horror I felt when he got into an accident, and then the date. My first ever real date— I stopped lying to myself that it was just a lunch.
And after the date... Stop it Amrah!
I couldn't afford that right now, not after everything I just found out.
I needed to focus on myself. On my studies and the upcoming architecture contest that I have finally agreed to participate in.
That evening after fixing the new door, I plopped down to eat a bowl of homemade pho from my favorite place. It was such a long day of getting materials and running three classes in the span of three hours. I couldn't wait to be under my covers sleeping.
My phone rang just as I finished taking a shower and my father's name displayed on the screen. I answered with a smile despite my exhaustion.
"Noorie," Dad's warm voice filled my ear. I realized we haven't spoken in a while.
"Edison tells me you have requested a new door?"
"Yes, Dad. I just felt like it." I expected Eddie would tell him.
"You just felt like it," he repeated, and I could hear the amusement in his tone.
"As I should " I said in my brattiest voice. "You should be used to it by now."
He chuckled. "Fair point. Well, if you want a new door, you shall have a new door. Though I am curious what brought this on."
"I just wanted a change," I said, which wasn't entirely a lie. "Something fresh."
"Mmm," he hummed, clearly not entirely convinced but willing to let it go. "Well, as long as you are safe and happy."
"I am, Dad. I promise."
We talked for a few more minutes, and I found myself telling him about the architecture contest. His reaction was exactly what I expected and hoped for—pure, genuine pride.
"Amrah, that's wonderful!" he exclaimed.
"I'm so happy you have finally agreed to participate in something public. You have such talent, and it's about time the world got to see it."
"It's just a contest between the two Minarets, Dad," I said, but I couldn't help smiling at his enthusiasm.
"Yeah, but who knows what it could lead to tomorrow? I'm proud of you, my amazing daughter"
As we were talking, I heard a commotion in the background on his end—voices and what sounded like someone knocking on a door.
"Dad? What's going on?"
He sighed, but I could hear the smile in his voice. "Should be Kamal. Seems Zara has locked him out of their wing again."
I couldn't help but laugh. "Again? What did he do this time?"
"What he always does—stayed too late at the office and forgot to call. Hold on."
I heard muffled voices, and then Kamal's voice came on the line, sounding sheepish. "Don't laugh, Amy. It's not funny."
"It's a little funny," I said, grinning. "Zara doesn't play around, does she?"
"No, she does not," Kamal muttered.
"I'm just here to borrow some of Dad's clothes since apparently all of mine are currently inaccessible."
"You know, I would be annoyed too," I pointed out. "Zara actually takes action. I respect that about her."
"Of course you do," Kamal grumbled. "You two are cut from the same cloth."
"Is that why you married her?" I teased. "Wanted someone who could keep you in line like I do?" I missed watching my sister in law putting my brother on timeout.
I should really go home.
"I married her because I love her," he said, but I could hear the warmth in his voice. "Even when she's being unreasonable."
"Unreasonable?" I repeated incredulously. "Kamal, you always promised you would be home for dinner. You know how much she hates it when you break promises."
"I got caught up with a meeting," he defended himself. "It ran late."
"And you couldn't call?"
"My phone died."
"Kamal."
"I know, I know," he sighed. "I messed up. I will make it up to her."
"You'd better," I said. "Or she'll do more than just lock you out next time."
"Ah yes. Have you started preparing for the contest?" Dad asked after taking the phone.
"Yeah," I admitted. "I will send my progress so far"
"That's my girl," he said warmly.
"Just remember, whatever happens—whether you win or not—I'm proud of you for trying. For putting yourself out there."
"Thanks, Dad," I said softly, feeling emotion tighten my throat.
We talked a bit more about the contest details and my classes, carefully avoiding any mention of Chris or relationships in general.
I felt so light after talking to my Dad even though I couldn't rant out about the mess to him.
As we were wrapping up the conversation, my doorbell rang, my new door.
"Someone's at the door," I said.
"I should go."
"Alright, Noorie. Call me if you need anything, yes?"
"I will. Love you, Dad."
"Love you too, Amrah. And come home soon, your Mom miss you"
I laughed. "Will do. Night, Dad."
"Goodnight, Noorie."
I hung up and headed to the door, thinking it was Daphy.
As I reached for the doorknob, I paused, my hand hovering over it.
Part of me wondered if it might be Zayd on the other side. I haven't heard from him all day after last night.
I couldn't think about Zayd right now. I had made my decision. I was going to focus on myself, on my work, on building something meaningful that was just mine.
I took a breath and opened the door, ready to face whoever was waiting on the other side.