No, I'm Not Muslim

C H A P T E R 3 - PAIR

*I just want to say that I'm really grateful for all the support and comments, I'm truthfully surprised how positive the feedback has been.

When I started working on this book I wanted to try to write something about someone who isn't perfect and who is trying to find the right path in life. This book is not about being muslim or not being one, (I'm hoping for non-muslims and muslims to learn something though, people are different and live their lives in all of kinds of ways.) I know that the book title is quite misleading.

Thank you and enjoy chapter 3!*

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C H A P T E R   T H R E E 
pair

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I never seen my parents so excited for anything in my life before.

We went shopping because my parents thought I need more appropriate clothes. I didn't really pay attention and let them buy whatever. I'm mostly weirded out. My father who usually never goes out with us shopping, avoids talking etc. Suddenly wants to follow us everywhere.

Isn't it funny? I always try to please them but as soon as I chose to do something that's mainly for me they never been more pleased.

I guess I have to live my life for me and that's when my parents are the happiest.

I smile at the scenario in front of me. My parents are packing down a bunch of gifts in a suitcase. They seem so happy and contented.

My mother caught me looking, she returns my smile but her smile slowly fades, her eyes are out of focus and she starts sweating.

"Mom are you ok?" I ran up to her and my dad immediately stands up.

"Sara go to your room" He calmly demands.

"What no!" I lightly shake my mother because she isn't responding.

"Listen Sara, just go to you room" he almost shouts at me, I gasp. My father never used that kind of tone on me. I take a few steps back. Too scared and confused to understand what's going on.

I somehow made it to my room.

Is mom sick? Is she dying?

I collapse on the floor. I just stare at the wall in front of me for what feels for hours.

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We didn't talk about last night, we all just pretend it never happened. If my parents want to tell me they would. I don't want to be a burden.

Today we will be flying to ____ (insert middle eastern country). I'm wearing ripped jeans and an oversized sweater when I walk into the kitchen.

"I think I packed everything, I'm done!" I declare enthusiastic.

My father gives my outfit a horrified look.

"Are you thinking of going like this?" he questions.

"Yes?"

"Change" 

"What no, why?" I exclaim frustrated.

"This is too... casual and a bit too revealing" He was struggling to find the right words.

I laugh "Are you serious?" I ask, he can't be serious.

"Yes, you need to change ripped jeans"

I gape at my dad, he never told me to change my outfit ever before.