HE WASN’T THE MONSTER BUT CAME FROM ONE

"Hope In"

The bedroom was calm and softly lit. A gentle breeze came through the window, carrying the faint smell of flowers from outside. The city noises were far away, quiet.

Tia sat by the window, holding her phone. A message from Ismail appeared:

"If you can't sleep, I'll make it easy for you. If you can't talk, I'll still understand."

She smiled a little, but her eyes were still careful.

Kia was at her laptop across the room, typing quietly.

Tia spoke softly:

"Kia... do you think I can try again?"

Kia looked at her, surprised.

"Do you mean... Ismail?"

Tia nodded. Her hands were shaking a little.

"... I can't trust myself again," she said quietly.

Kia walked over and sat beside her.

"I've seen the way you talk to him. He makes you laugh... You haven't smiled like that with outsider in a long time."

"You need to move on, not for him, but for yourself. You deserve happiness again."

Tia shook her head, voice soft and tired.

"I wish I could... but | just can't, Kia. I've tried many times."

Kia held her hand gently.

"You will, Tia. Slowly. You don't have to rush. But don't give up on yourselt."

Tia held Kia's hand tightly.

"I will.. but only if you go back to Mustekim."

Kia was shocked.

"Wait... what? How do you know?"

Tia smiled softly.

"I'm your sister. I know your heart. You still love him. And he's waiting for you."

Kia felt her heart soften. She hugged Tia tightly.

"'Il try.. for me. And for you," she whispered.

Tia hugged back.

"And I'll try... for me. But mostly... for us."

They both smiled. Then they got up and went to the prayer mat together.

They performed ablution and prayed side by side. The water, the quiet room, the night breeze - it all felt peaceful.

Tia thought of Ismail's messages, his patience, his care. Maybe I can trust again... slowly.

Kia thought of Mustekim, the man she hurt but still loved. Maybe I can try... for him and for myselt.