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I continue drinking trying to figure out how to handle my dad. Rilwan walks in while I am in deep thought.

“You asked for me.”

“Sit down,” I say to him. I wanted us, face to face. I can watch him better.

I took the phone out and played the recording. We both listened when the record stopped playing. I leaned in, watching him closely.

“Did you know about my children?”

“Yes,” he says. I’m shocked but I control my surprise.

“How long have you known about them?”

“Last week, when she was heading to the salon, was when she told me after I questioned her.” Still upset but also comforting to know he hasn’t been hiding information for years like Mani.

“Did you know where Jade was all this time?”

“No.” I watch him closely, though well trained, I’m sure I can still catch him.

“Did you know my father paid her?”

“No, but I guessed. He was in the US around the time of her leaving.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“It was a guess, not concrete information.”

“Did you try to find out more?”

“No, because I wasn’t sure if trying to find out would not jeopardize her safety.” Much as I dislike his answer. He’s right, my dad could have paid people to alert him if anyone was digging.

“I understand why you did it but don’t ever withhold any information concerning Jade from me again. Is that clear?” I sternly commanded and he nodded. “Now, I need full protection for her, and don’t act like you know. I need everyone to act like nothing has changed. I’m going to poke my dad tonight. So, I need you to make sure she’s protected.”

“Consider it done.”

“Find out where my children are and set up their protection.” He nods. “Mani told me they just moved, and Jade would be spooked if she asks, so fly below the radar and make sure it gets done swiftly without exposing them.”

“Noted,” he says getting up.

“You may go. Radek will take me to my parents tonight.”

I arrived at my parents’ home. A big welcome and kisses from my mom. I give my father a handshake, which is not unusual. We sit at dinner and discuss a few issues. Once dinner is over we are in the sitting room. My dad was on the chair, a coffee table with his drink next to him, and my mom and I sat on the loveseat. My mom started to talk about my nephew. She shows us the video Taimani sent to her. She’s so happy. I wish I could tell her she has two more grandchildren. We laugh at the video.

Then my mom asks, “Nas, when are you going to give me a grandchild, you are not getting any younger.”

“Soon, I hope, but I should find a compatible woman first.”

“What’s wrong with Nadra?” my dad asks.

“Let’s just say we are not compatible, and I doubt we’ll ever be compatible.”

“Which is important,” my mom says.

“What about Jurea?” my dad asks; he knows she is not an option too.

“Even less compatible than Nadra. I hear Jurea is getting married soon.” I respond, “To be honest, I’m still looking for Mariam.” I see the shock on both their faces.

“Didn’t she dump you?” my dad says perplexed. He assumed her dumping me would mean I’d move on. Is it possible to move on from the love of my life?