Scene 1: The Last Class
The sun cast a warm glow over the city as Maryam prepared for her final online class with her Grade 9 students. Her laptop was set up, notes organized, and a gentle smile played on her lips.
As the clock struck 5 PM, students began to log in, their faces lighting up the screen.
Student A: "Assalamualaikum, Miss Maryam!"
Maryam: "Wa Alaikum Salam, everyone. Today marks our last session before your final exams. Let's make it count."
The class proceeded with revisions, clarifications, and a few light-hearted moments. As the session drew to a close, a student unmuted their microphone.
Student B: "Miss, before we end, we all want to say something."
Maryam tilted her head, curious.
Student C: "We've been praying for your upcoming baby. May Allah bless you with a healthy daughter."
A chorus of "Ameen" echoed through the virtual classroom.
Maryam's eyes welled up with tears.
Maryam: "Thank you, my dear students. Your prayers mean the world to me."
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Scene 2: The Calendar Ritual
With the classes concluded, Maryam's days took on a new rhythm. Each morning, she would approach the calendar hanging in the kitchen, marking off the days leading up to her due date.
One evening, as she stood contemplating the calendar, Irfan approached.
Irfan: "Counting down again?"
Maryam: "Only seven days left. It's hard to believe."
Irfan: "Time flies. Are you nervous?"
Maryam: "A little. But mostly excited."
He wrapped his arms around her, resting his hands on her belly.
Irfan: "Our daughter will be here soon. I can't wait to meet her."
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Scene 3: Preparations and Anticipation
The couple spent the following days preparing for the baby's arrival. The nursery was set up, tiny clothes folded neatly, and a hospital bag packed and ready.
Maryam found herself daydreaming about holding her daughter, imagining her first smile, her first words.
One afternoon, as she sat knitting a small blanket, her phone buzzed with messages from her students, sharing their exam experiences and expressing gratitude.
Student D: "Miss, the exam went well. Thank you for all your help."
Student E: "Your classes made a big difference. We appreciate you."
Maryam replied with heartfelt messages, her heart swelling with pride and affection.
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Scene 4: A Quiet Evening
As the week progressed, Maryam and Irfan cherished their quiet evenings together. They would sit on the balcony, sipping tea, discussing names for their daughter, and sharing their hopes and dreams.
Maryam: "I want her to be strong, kind, and wise."
Irfan: "She will be. With you as her mother, how could she not?"
They laughed, the sound mingling with the gentle night breeze.
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Scene 5: The Final Countdown
With just a few days remaining, Maryam's anticipation grew. Each movement of the baby felt like a reminder of the life soon to enter their world.
She continued her calendar ritual, each marked day bringing a mix of excitement and serenity.
As the final day approached, Maryam and Irfan stood together, hand in hand, ready to welcome their daughter into their lives.
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End of Chapter 192: The Final Bell and the Countdown Begins