hospital

definitely becoming more familiar with it

running between the maternity ward and the

countless

cancer therapy sessions.

The contractions

-in Adrianna's case-

were painful

but they would result in something beautiful.

A baby.

That was soon due.

And her mother?

she would have to rest in peace

and pray to Allah on her last days on earth.

"Salam?"

A questioning voice.

A familiar one

Aiden.

She turned

keeping her gaze low

but even then

her eyes caught sight of the 

Quran

-translated-

in his hands.

"Wa alaikum as salam"

she replied to him then turned away

a secret smile on her face.

A smile meant only for her.

A smile that thanked Allah.