Adam's Eye : Chapter Twelve

Zaharah wakes up and only to find herself sleeping by Aden's side. Zaharah look closer towards Aden and suddenly she felt disgusted towards Adam. But she makes up her mind not to cry anymore cause what is done can't be undone. Mistakes has been made and now she's part of these. The clock shows it was only six in morning but she felt she had slept long enough and decides to get ready to get back to their shop. Staying at home looking at all these will just makes things worst. She could not accept whatever explanation which Adam had try to clarify. Not at this moment. Then she saw Adam was still asleep on the floor near their bed. She stare at him for a while and then she stood up and head towards the bathroom to have a quick shower. As she walks out from the room she saw the luggage which Sarah must have left for Adam to bring back. She bend over it and decides to take a look inside. As she sat on the floor, she began unzipping the luggage bag. There were some of Aden's clothes, milk formula and few baby bottles.

"Oh! God that woman must have plan all this very well." utter Zaharah too herself.

Then something caught her attention. It was an A4 size envelope. Zaharah opens the envelope and find some documents inside it. These documents must be very important or else why was it seal neatly inside the envelope. What she saw next was the thing which she knew her future with Adam depends on it. Aden birth certificate was well kept and was nicely laminated. She was looking for Aden's surname but nothing was written about the father's particular and these seems strange and makes Zaharah wonder, what if Adam was telling the truth.

After taking her shower, she gets herself busy in the kitchen preparing breakfast and lunch. Then she boils some water and pour it in the flask so that she can use it to prepare Aden's milk. As she was sterilising the feeding bottle, she saw Adam had walk into the kitchen with Aden in his arms.

"He just woke up. I think he had wet himself." said Adam looking lost as he was not used handling kids especially three years old babies. Without looking at Adam, Zaharah took Aden from his arms. It seems that Aden feel more at ease with Zaharah and he begins to stare hard towards her.

"At least the mother got some sense to leave some of her son's belongings before she left." said Zaharah and Adam knew from the tone of her voice she's still upset about the whole incident the night before. Zaharah brings Aden to the bathroom and begin cleaning and showering him up. Aden give some baby talk and began playing with her hair. "You seems to have your daddy's charm aren't you." exclaimed Zaharah and then she continues." If you are truly his son." Aden wonders again of the words which Zaharah had spoken to him and giggle showing some of his two baby teeth on his lower gums. Zaharah was amuse by Aden's reaction and smile. Then she dress him up with the clothes which Sarah had pack. Aden must be famised as he drinks his milk until his bottle dries up. Soon Zaharah pat him until he falls asleep again.

"I ve make breakfast and prepare some lunch for you. If Aden wakes up just heat up the milk which I've prepared and feeds him with that. Change his diapers when neccesary because I will be back home late today. There's so many unfinish task which was left yesterday." said Zaharah not even looking at Adam as she speaks. Adam felt hurt by Zaharah's coldness towards him but he only got himself to blame. Before Zaharah steps out from the house Adam makes another attempt to hold her back by helding on to her hands. Zaharah still feel so sore about everything and she tug her hand away from his roughly and left.

Zaharah enter's the shop and put up the close signage up again because she felt she was not ready for any customers on that day. After turning on the dim light, Zaharah sat on the stool by the counter. Her mind was full of unanswered questions and she was unsure who can she speaks too right now. With Adam what can he explain. "Aden is not my son."High! Zaharah gave a huge sigh just the thought of it. If she were to mention these things to Ana, it would be an additional burden to her. Zaki. He seems to know alot about Adam's past. A lot more it seems. Zaharah looks at the clock and saw it was still early for Zaki to leave the office. Zaharah looks through Adam's pocket book and began dialing. But Zaharah had prepared herself as she knew some things which Zaki will say to her might not be all the truth. All she needs is some details about Adam's past life. Zaharah waited with full of anticipation for someone to answer the phone.


"Hello." it was the maid which answered the call to Zaharah's dismay.

"Hello, can I speak with Zaki please. This is kind of important," said Zaharah hoping that Zaki will still be around.



"Yeh." it was Zaki as his usual monotone cold voice. Suddenly Zaharah felt petrified as she was unsure where to begins.

"What do you know about Sarah?" Zaharah sucks in her fears and begins her quests.


"Zaharah! What a surprised? And why the sudden interest of calling me? Oh! Don't tell me you both had already met?" exclaimed Zaki with sacarsm in his tone.
"So you had it all planned don't you. Or how the hell did you know that we have both met?" Zaharah was furious after hearing those word from Zaki.

"That is so clever of you to figure that out." replied Zaki ."By the way, have you met Aden? Adam's unwed child."

"Zaki for your reminder, I'm not that swallow head like what you think. I have plans too. You want to play games with me. By all means. I shall bring Aden to a private clinic and do some DNA test to find out the truth." said Zaharah. "If Aden turns out to be Adam's son, well I shall love him and nurture him like my true blood. He will definately going to get the best in everything. But if Aden's turns out to be someone elses or even if he belongs to you well not to worry Zaki. Because I will still love him and nurtured him and give him all the best things in this world that you can ever imagined. But once he becomes a man, I will set him to destroy you. What fun can it be? Seeing his own son killing his daddy." continued Zaharah with a smirk on her face. She was not going to let Zaki penalised her and Adam anymore because what Zaki did had almost jeorpadised their marrige.


"You are took cocky Zaharah. I will make sure one day you shall come to me begging for mercy" exclaimed Zaki as he could not accept that Zaharah still stood by Adam's side despite what had happen.

"Oh! No Zaki. I won't be coming to you begging for mercy, but I shall be offering yours." replied Zaharah coyly. Then she heard the receiver was slam down. Zaharah smile to herself cause she knew she had hit Zaki's note pretty hard. "Serve him right for whatever he did." thought Zaharah to herself.

Aden was still asleep after Zaharah left much to Adam's relieve as he would'nt know how to handle the child once he wakes up. Adam pray hard for the kid to sleep through until Zaharah came back. He had his breakfast all by himself for the first time. As he was sipping his coffee which Zaharah had prepared for him in his mug he begins to think hard about the whole matter.

"Why does all these matters only happen now ? Even if Aden was my son but why only now Sarah brings him over to me? And how does she know the location of my shop? Was it Zaki or was it just pure co-incidence? Nothing I'm going to say will be able to appeased Zaharah's anger. I can't blame her for that but I must sort this out fast."

Adam walks back into the bedroom and saw Aden was sitting on the bed staring back towards him. He put up his arm asking Adam to carry him. Adam had no other choice but to comply incase he starts to wail again. Adam picks him up and put him on the living room floor as he was wondering what to do next. Then he saw Aden stood up and try to balance himself. Something had caught Aden's eye and he begins walking cautiosly towards the plastic lavender plant which Zaharah had arrange nicely in a vase. Adam just look at the child's behaviour and still wondering what is he going to do next. Being the youngest in the family therefore Adam was not doing well handling children. He felt nervous actually. Adam almost freak out when Aden had place a mouthful of the plastic lavender plant in his mouth.

"Aden. No.!" cried Adam and carries him back in his arms pulling out the plastic plant from his mouth. Aden begins to whimper and to Adam's dismay he starts his wailing siren.

"You will get choke by eating that you little monkey. Are you hungry or what? Zaharah please come back! We both need you." cried Adam rocking Aden to and fro hoping he might calm down and stop crying. Still holding Aden in his arms Adam walks towards the kitchen and see what can he gave him to eat. Then he saw a small pot which contain some porridge which Zaharah had prepared earlier that morning. He touch the pot and it is still warm. Adam place a small bowl and a plastic spoon and begin scopping the porridge into it. It smells good. Zaharah had add in some patatoes and mince carrot with some mince chicken meat. Adam took a bite and it taste good too. Aden stops wailing as he stares with full of interest on every Adam's movement. Adam place him on the kitchen stool and begin feeding him and it seems that he must be very hungry as he managed to finish the whole bowl in just few minutes. Then Adam place him back in the living room as he walks back towards the kitchen to have his lunch now. He look into some of the pots but there were all empty. All was left was the porridge which Zaharah had cook earlier for Aden.

"She's still punishing me." exclaimed Adam to himself. In the end it seems Adam was left with no other choice but to eat the porridge. After lunch Adam begins cleaning up the kitchen and he does it with extra effort including sweeping and moping hoping to please Zaharah when she comes back. He grab his clean t-shirt which he had place earlier on the stool and went into the bathroom to have his shower.

As he walks towards the living area, Aden was not in his sight. A sense of panic came upon Adam and he begins calling out his name while searching under the table and behind the chair.

"Aden. Don't do this to me. Come out here you little chimp." cried Adam scratching his head and fear ran through his mind on how he's going to explain to Zaharah about Aden's missing. "No he can't go far as the house door was close anyway." thought Adam to himself with relief.

Then he heard a chuckle and it came from his working room. Adam dash and what he saw was what he's never going to expect.

"What have you done?" cried Adam as he saw most of his oil paints has spill on the wooden floor covering almost part of it and Aden was enjoying himself palm printing on one of his paintings. He shows he's full painted palm towards Adam with a grin on his face. Adam was unsure about what he's got to do next. He can't get angry and punish Aden as he was still a two years old kid.

"God is punishing me now. And thanks to you." exclaimed Adam and he carries Aden bringing in some of his tint to clean him up. Adam soon figure out that cleaning a two years old child was not easy. For one thing Aden can never keep still and he thought Adam was playing games with him. It took him almost an hour until Aden was spick and span again. Next Adam fills in the milk bottle which Zaharah had sterilised and begins feeding Aden until he was fast asleep again. Next Adam begin cleaning up the mess in his working room which Aden had cause.He took the painting which Aden had partial destroy. Nice mixture of colors actually. Thought Adam smiling to himself. There were bright yellow,some lime green and a tinge of orange palm printed pattern covering his daisy potrait. Adam decides not to throw away that painting but to improvised it. Then he place the rest of his other paintings outside the room and he was glad Zaharah's potraits which he had painted earlier was untouched. He knew that he must be extra careful now with Aden around this stuff can be quite hazardous to that child. Adam took off his shirt and threw it on the stool nearby and then he get himself busy. Pouring out the tint on the floor and scrubbing the paint blotches here and there. It took him almost half a day to clear the mess cause the paint had really absorb and seep through the wooden floor. Although it has been clean but the stained can still be seeing. Then Adam re-arrange back his paintings and decides to lock the door to prevent these from happening again. He took the room key from the rattan cabinet and locks the door from outside. As Aden was still asleep , Adam decides to clean himself and prepare dinner incase Zaharah came back home later that night.
Adam was definately not a handyman in the kitchen. Preparing tuna sandwiches is a tedious job for him. After pouring out the tuna into the mixing bowl, he gets the mayonase from the new fridge which they had recently bought and add it into the tuna. Next he put in some salt and pepper praying that it was the right portion. Next he mix in some olive oil and then he begins slicing the bread. After the sandwiches was done he place them in the fridge as cold sandwiches taste better and more refreshing. Then he heats up the porridge to feed Aden who had already awakes. Adam discover that feeding Aden needs alot of technique and patience too. Since there are no toys available in their home Adam let Aden plays the big plastic red bowl and a wooden ladle so that Aden will stay focus on them and this is easier as Adam can easily feeds him. Adam looks at the clock on the wall and it was almost half past eight. This is rare because Zaharah usual came home before eight. He begins to feel worry. What if Zaharah had truly decides to leave him and never came back? However he knew Zaharah is not a reasonable person cause all she needs is time to take all this happenings. Adam cleansed Aden after his dinner and decides to place him at Ameenah's home their neighbour whom they had become close too. Ameenah was surprised to see Aden as she knew that Adam and Zaharah has no children of their own. Adam smile and told her recently they had decides to adopt Aden as their own child from some local ophanage. "Oh dear another lie. I hate myself." thought Adam to himself after handing Aden over to Ameenah.
The night sky has sets in without Zaharah noticing as she was too engrossed balancing the previous account. The paintings which their clients ordered earlier has been arrange neatly agaisnt the wall for the despatch man to come over to collect the next morning. Zaharah place her pen on the table and began to stretch her back. As she look at her watch she was surprised as she did not realised that it was almost half past nine. She close her log book and place it in the drawer and lock it. Just as she was about to grab her coat suddenly two mask men came into her shop with parang in their arms. Zaharah was alarmed and she dashed towards the back to escape from the back door however she was not quick enough as one of the man violently grab her and place the parang across her neck. Panic and chill run through her spine. And to her horror the other man begans pouring kerosene on to Adam's paintings and also around the shop. Zaharah struggle as hard as she could pleading them to stop and offer them money if that what they wanted. But to her dismay it was not about the money but they were sent to destroy the shop and who knows to kill her too. Her mind begins to run while as she begins to think about Adam. Is this how it's going to end?
"You smell nice lady." exclaimed the man who was holding her and Zaharah knew she had to defend herself even if she was to be killed. With all her might she kick his shin and then his groin area and dash out towards the front door. As she was about to run out Adam came in. And what a shocked he had as what ever he sees right now is not what he could ever imagined. He grab Zaharah and told her to run and get help. Zaharah was relunctant but Adam insists.
"Go! Run!" Even before she could make it to the door, one of the villian charged towards Adam with his parang. To Zaharah relieve Adam simply knew some basic defensive skill and he managed to avoid the attack. Zaharah quickly ran towards the door however she was grab by the other thug and was violent push against the wall. She felt her head was slammed hard against the concrete wall and her head begin to feel dizzy. She heard Adam was calling her name and then she blacks out. Adam panics and rushed towards Zaharah then he felt a heavy knock on his head and he fell on the floor. Fears sets in as one of the man had lighted his lighter and threw it onto his painting which has been soaked with the kerosene liquid. Adam was feeling faint by now and the fire begans to engulf towards the store room spreading fast towards them. Adam knew he had to act fast or else they will be dead and his main concern is Zaharah. He struggle to stand but the heavy smoke begans to choke and suffocate his lungs. He crawls and drag himself towards Zaharah who was still unconcious. Adam looks around and the fire has definately begins to reach almost towards the ceiling by now. His head felt heavy and he seems to be drowning in the smoke as he begins to cough frantically. He held Zaharah close to his chest and then his vision turns blurrish and he fell unconcious.

Adam's Eye : Chapter Eleven

Ana walk them towards the door. And with heavy heart she had to let them leave. Adam look at his mother and kiss her forehead wiping her tears as he did so. Zaharah's heart felt sudder too and she gave Ana a hug. "We will be back soon ma, I promised." said Zaharah with a smile on her face.

"There is so many things which I wanted to tell you." said Ana.

"Yes. And I am ready to hear all that once I'm back here." replied Zaharah and she was wondering what kind of things which Ana had wanted to tell her.

Ana stand by the gate until their car was out from her sight.

It was pretty late afternoon when they start their journey and they bound to reach their destination somewhere past midnight. Adam was quiet throughout the journey it seems like he had his mind elsewhere. Zaharah looks out of the window to look at the views which was mostly barren grassland. Suddenly the words which Zaki had put in her thoughts began to rewind back in her mind. "Adam's hidden past. No I must not have any doubt about Adam.""Whatever the outcome is I swear I will always be on his side." thought Zaharah to herself. And while doing so she begins to fiddle on the flower patten on her skirt. She had her hair untie and it sway gently agaisnt the wind.

Adam turn to look at her and smile. "Are you hungry?" he asked. Zaharah turn towards him and smile.

"No. No I'm not." replied Zaharah. " I love you."

Adam look please with those words and gave his 'darlie' smile which has been his trademark.

"I love you too."

As they had estimated the reach their destination almost past midnight. After they had quick shower and some supper they both soon had fallen asleep due to the tiredness of the long journey.

The next day they both decide to tidy up their home and later that evening Zaharah had plan
to go back to their shop as she needs to settle some matters. Whereas Adam wanted to sent their rented car back to the shop. Adam as always the jovial species had often makes Zaharah laugh until she rolls on her stomach. Therefore cleaning the house together is not so tedious afterall.

Zaharah went back to their shop that evening. She dust off the shelves and the counter and also some of Adam's paintings. She decides not to take in anymore orders but to clear what they have now as she knew they need to extend their closer further ahead. She run through the invoices and mades several phonecalls. As she was busy listing down some checklist suddenly someone had enters the shop despite the close signage has been put up.

"May I help you ?" asked Zaharah towards the young lady and Zaharah guess that she must be somewhere around her age. And she was not alone. She was carrying a toddler in her arms and she had a huge backpack on her back. Then she put the child down on the floor. He must be feeling kind of scare and he quickly walks behind that lady and tug her skirt as he did so.

"Does Adam lives somewhere around this area?" she ask while scanning around the shop as though she was looking for something or someone to be more exact.

"I'm Zaharah his wife.""May I know why you need to see him?" asked Zaharah and she began to feel something was not right about this meeting.

"Oh! He's married." she replied and by the way she looked, Zaharah could tell that she was shocked and dissapointed.

Just then Adam enters the shop bringging in some of the balance of his paintings which he had prepare earlier for the new order. " Look Zaharah what else I have bought."

"Aden I want you to meet your father." said that lady without even considering Zaharah feelings and thoughts.

Zaharah felt like a knife has been stab in her heart. She turn to look at Adam with full of anger written all over her face. Adam was still in shocked and confused with all that happening right now. So this is the hidden past which Adam had been keeping away so well from her. Zaki was right all along. Adam had betrayed her trust. Tears begins to well in her eyes but she refuse to let them fall. Not in front of them.

She was about to step out from the shop but Adam hold on to her hand and pleads. "Zaharah please listen to me. This is just a misunderstanding."

"You have just drove a knife into my heart." cried Zaharah coldly. Adam looks remoseful after hearing those words which was spoken by Zaharah.

"This is your mistake. You fix it." replied Zahara and she walks out from the shop with a huge lump in her heart.

"How much does he pay you for all this Sarah?" asked Adam furiously as he dashed towards her and roughly grab her shoulder. Aden begins to feel intimidated by this commotion and decides to hide under the table.

"Let go of me. You are hurting me." said Sarah as she begins to struggle from Adam's hand.

"I'm asking you. How much?" Adam was not going to let her off that easily after what she had done.

"Come on Adam. We did have fun together." replied Sarah undeter with Adam's threat.

"Until you decide to sleep with him. It was you who decides to walk out on me." shouted Adam as he could not contain his anger any longer. Aden begans to wail under the table and seeing this is just too much for him to take.

"Zaki came onto me. It was you whom I had on my mind." replied Sarah smiling coyly at Adam.

"You're a lier. Every words that came out from you are all lies." cried Adam and he let go of his grip and had his back turn againts her.

"If that's what you want to think of me, well I don't care. I have been taking care of Aden for almost three years now so I guess now is the time to do your part. And he's a burden to my future.""I'm leaving this country and please tell your wife how sorry I am for everything."

"You can't do this Sarah." cried Adam but it was too late. Sarah seems had planned all this pretty well because soon enough a cab was seen park nearby the shop. She walks out of the shop without looking back leaving Aden under the table crying out for her.

"Oh! God!" said Adam covering his face with both of his hands. He knew he had no other choice.

Zaharah had already packed her clothes into one of the luggage and was determined to leave but on the second thought where can she head to. Going back to her aunt Siti is definately out of question. She sat on the floor and cries. Holding her legs close to her chest she begins to sob. Her heart was broken."How could Adam do this to me?" Despite all the anger and betrayal which she had felt, she still can't deny that she still loves him.

Just then the door swung open. Adam stood at the doorway and he had Aden sleeping soundly in his arms. Adam has been crying and he seems to be lost with his words when he saw Zaharah had already pack her luggage and ready to leave.

"Zaharah please. Let's talk things out. " cried Adam meekly.

However Zaharah was still determine to leave and she don't care where she's heading too. But she knew once she step out from that house, she will never comes back again.

"Zaharah. Don't go." pleads Adam. And then suddenly Aden wakes up and begins to whimper calling out for his mother. Adam try his best to put him back to sleep and he began rocking him gently only to set the child crying out louder.

"Give him to me." cried Zaharah as she grab Aden from his arms. To their surprised Aden soon falls asleep again so soundly in her arms. She took him into their room and place him on their bed. Adam follow her from behind.

"Where's the mother?" asked Zaharah coldly towards Adam without giving him any eye contact.

"She left. And she left Aden too. This is not.." replied Adam.

"Punishing this child for the sin which both of you had committed is simply unacceptable." replied Zaharah with cold tone in her voice. Adam decide not to say anything or else he might just upset Zaharah even further.

Soon Zaharah had fallen asleep beside Aden as she was feeling too exhausted after all the crying.
Adam watched them sleep. He was confused with all this but for one thing he is glad that
Zaharah had decide to stay. Adam walks closer towards where Zaharah was sleeping and caress her hair and cheeks.

"Please forgive me Zaharah." whispered Adam.

Adam's Eye : Chapter Ten

They both walk back towards Zayeed’s room and saw that Zayeed was still asleep. Zaharah stood up and smile. Ana walk closer to Zayeed’s bedside and touch his forehead. “Thanks Zaharah for bringing our son back to us. Adam had told me everything on how you had coax him to make the first move.” Zaharah was speechless and stood there. “I’m just thinking the best for all of us.” said Zaharah and look at the pastel blue bed sheet. Ana realized that tears began to well up in Zaharah’s eyes. Adam walk closer towards Zaharah and stood by her side.


“I guess I’m the lucky one around here. Adam has definitely turn my life around. And I never regret being part of his life now and being part of your family..” said Zaharah . Ana secretly knew about Zaharah’s background and how she and her brother had been mistreated by her foster family. But she felt that maybe those secret were not to be reveal at this point of time. “And I’m bless to have you as my daughter in law” said Ana smiling sweetly towards Zaharah.

The rain had start to fall and pattering of the raindrops could be heard splashing softly on the ground. Adam took Zaharah back to their room leaving Ana and Zayeed to rest. Zaharah stood by the window gazing towards the garden which had been blured by the raindrops. She could see the trees were swaying gently against the wind and suddenly she felt cold. As though she was part of the tree being hit hard against the raindrops followed by the wind. Adam was unpacking his luggage while suddenly he realized Zaharah seems to be upset about something. Adam walks towards her however Zaharah is still in her daze and did not realized that Adam had already stood beside her.

“Zaharah. What’s the matter?” asked Adam with full of concern in his voice. Zaharah startle and she turn towards Adam and smile faintly.
　
“Adam, you had already fulfilled part of your dream. How about now you fulfill part of your father’s?” asked Zaharah still looking solemnly at Adam. Adam looks out towards the window and the rain had began to fall more heavily by now splashing hard on the ground. “I know I have no right to interfere in these but certain sacrifices need to be done. I guess it’s about time we need to do something to make his last days more meaningful. I’m sure he had a lot of unfinished plan and those plans involved you.’ exclaimed Zaharah and she knew she had to make Adam realized that it is about time to give something more to his father. His father’s hopes and dreams. “Do you think I can do it?” asked Adam meekly looking at Zaharah for an answer. “We can always try? I’m here with you so is your ma.” replied Zaharah and these time she was full of high spirit. Adam nodded and smile.

The raindrops has come towards the window pane by now making soft pattering sound. Adam looks at Zaharah and came closer towards her. He pull Zaharah towards him and gave her a hug. Zaharah felt good being in his arm and she put her head against his chest and she could feel his heartbeat just like the sound of the gentle raindrop. They look at each other lovingly and then they began to kiss. Adam caress Zaharah’s bundle hair and unbundled it making her hair fall nicely on her shoulder. Zaharah put her arms around his neck and admiring his eyes. She remember the first time when she had met him and she can’t deny that it was Adam’s eye which had eventually caught her attention.
　
Adam wakes up and realized that it was already half past two in the afternoon. The morning rain had stop and was replace by nice warm sunny afternoon.
“Adam, we have lot’s of things to say to your ma and pa. Come on get up it’s already late in the afternoon.” exclaimed Zaharah puling Adam out from the bed and playfully push him into the bathroom.

They both decide to check on Adam’s parent and found that Ana and Zayeed were having their afternoon nap. Zaki was not around and Adam felt relief about this cause he does not want to cause anymore unwanted commotion. They had lunch together in the garden courtyard chatting and giggling away.
　
However Adam did not realized that Zaki was at the attic looking scornfully towards them. He clenched his fist tightly and he had full of evil thoughts playing around in his mind. His heart was blackened with hatred and jealousy. He felt that he was been ill-treated by his father and Adam had definitely beginning to cross his line. The attic was left barren after Adam step his foot out from their home. Few drops of old oil paint blotch still could be seen around the floor. Several rolls of uncut canvas which has been untouched for several years had beginning to show yellow and black spot are standing against the wall. Still looking intensely towards Adam and Zaharah, his mind began crafting on something which will totally change Adam’s future. He squint his big hazel brown eyes as the sunny rays began to set through the attic window.
　
Adam has been thinking about going back home for a while as he and Zaharah needs to do lots of things regarding their shop and home. In his heart he was determine to help out his father business.
　
Dinner time was amazing, a moment which Zaharah wish that the time might just stop there and never move forward again. It is not about the food but the family unity which really amazed her. And seeing Ana and Zayeed being together for almost thirty five years is simply beautiful. Despite all the things which happen between them but yet Ana still remains loving and faithful towards Zayeed. Zaharah knew from Adam that his parents were once a very simple folk. His father does a lot of odd jobs from a window washer, a waiter and mechanical services. Until eventually he had enough savings to open up his very own mechanical company. He was diligent and was full of commitment until his company flourished which lead him to expand further ahead.
　
“Pa there’s some matter which I need to bring out and please forgive me if the things which I’m going to say just might upset you.” Said Adam looking innocently towards his father frowning his eyebrows worriedly as he did so. From under the dining table Zaharah had held Adam’s hand to boost up his courage.

Zayeed looked calm upon Adam’s request and nodded his head still awaiting from his son’s next conversation. Ana still sipping her cup of tea as she was trying to hide her fear of another fall out between Adam and her husband. It has been that way ever since Adam decides to go against his father’s wishes. Although Adam is not a type of person who will argue back to defend his needs but she knew how hurt Adam might have felt.
　
“I’ve decided to help out in your company. I know I’ve got along way to go but I’m willing to learn if you will give me the chance.” explained Adam. Zayeed was caught in surprised and he seems unsure how to react to his son’s proposal.

“Wheel me back to my room please.” replied Zayeed towards Ana. Ana comply towards Zayeed request and wheel him back to his room leaving Adam,Zaharah and Zaki.
　
Zaki was extremely furious and came directly towards Adam. “Now just look what you have done. You have just complicated more matters. Why don’t you just pack your stuffs and leave.”
　
Adam stood up and stare coldly towards Zaki while clenching his right fist. Zaharah walk slowly towards Adam cause she fears that another fight will might broke out. “He’s not worth it.” Zaharah whispered into Adam’s ear and pulling him further away from Zaki. Adam took a deep breath. He thought to himself Zaharah is right, Zaki’s sickening behavior is not worth to get upset about cause his main attention is his parents.
　
The night sky was cloudless but was fill with lots of brilliant shining stars. The ground was not too wet after the heavy downpour that early morning. Cool soft breeze began to sets in. The garden lights was dimly lit but it was beautiful. Adam sat quietly on the garden porch deep in his thoughts. He was upset and confused with his father’s reaction to his request. He was only trying to help that’s all. Zaharah seems to know what was in Adam’s mind. He hung his head low as he was staring at the wet ground. His stubborn fringe falls nicely almost touching both side of his face.

“You’ve got to do something with that hair of yours.” cried Zaharah teasingly hoping this might cheer him up. Adam looks at Zaharah and smille. Zaharah felt sorry towards Adam and she was thinking hard to make him feel better. She sat beside him as she gaze towards the sky. “ I guess its my fault. If only I did not mention anything about these just now, none of this will had happen.” said Zaharah. Adam turns towards her and hold her hand. “No. None of this is your fault. Please don’t feel bad about it alright.” replied Adam making sure that Zaharah did not feel guilty.
　
The next morning Adam had decided to go back home for couple of days. They began to pack up their clothes when there’s a knock on the door. Zaharah went to open the door and it was Ana. Zaharah could see that Ana was having sleepless night and she has been crying. Zaharah bring Ana into their room. Ana saw the luggage bag which has been fully packed and these really had took her by surprised. “You’re both leaving so soon.” exclaimed Ana and she felt that this was too much for her.

“We will be back here in couple of days. We need to attend some task in our shop and also we need to check on our home.” explained Adam.

“I hope you leaving us got nothing to do with your father’s foolish reaction.” said Ana sadly. Adam smile and shake his head. “No ma. Nothing at all. We love both of you so much.” replied Adam as he took her hand.

“We will definitely come back ma.” said Zaharah and just like Adam she stood beside Ana and gave her a hug. “I love you ma.” said Zaharah softly. “Well I guess I better leave you both together cause I believe you’ve got lots of things to say. I will check out on pa.” said Zaharah leaving Ana and Adam together in the room.

Zaharah walks cautiously towards Zayeed’s room hoping that her present won’t upset him further. Just as she was about to climb down the stairways the person whom she loath the most stand in her way.

“I’m glad that silly husband of yours decide to leave us for good.” cried Zaki coyly as he walks closer next to her looking straight into her eyes and the present of him really sets Zaharah’s anger. But she knew she must not react stupid just like him because this might just makes him feel more confident of pinning her and Adam down. Zaharah ignored his remarks and continue to walk down the stairs. Zaki was not going to let her off just like that. He grabbed her arm bringing her closer to him “Adam is a coward. I just don’t understand what you see in him anyway. And there’s some things which I’m sure Adam has been keeping away from your knowledge. His dark hidden secrets which I knew.”

“And I don’t care.” Said Zaharah as she struggle to get her arm free from his grip.
　
“You’re here to please my parents so that you can have part of our wealth. I know what type of village girl like you are. Pretend to be so innocent and chaste.” continue Zaki triggering Zaharah’s nerve. Zaharah look intensely direct into his eyes. Her eyes show so much coldness and disgust towards him.
　
　
“Oh! Zaki. This is just the beginning. Sooner or later you will know what I’m capable off.” said Zaharah and the tone of her voice was very cold and it seems like a warning sign for Zaki to back off. “One more thing leaved Adam alone.” Zaki was shocked towards Zaharah respond and released her arm. He knew Zaharah is not easy to fool because she’s not just an ordinary dim-wit village girl. She continue her way towards Zayeed's room however her mind began to recur the words which Zaki had told her. Something to do about Adam's past. Dark hidden secret. What could it possibly be that Adam has not being telling her. She began to have some doubts on Adam but then she realised that propably Zaki was just trying to play games with her by installing negatives thoughts in her mind. Zaharah took a deep breath and she was determined to stand firm and always be by Adam's side no matter what happens. Deep in her thoughts staying under the same roof with Zaki around it won't be easy but she's not going to let that fear intervene her and Adam.

Back in his room as Zaki lay down and look up at his ceiling wall a wicked smile broke on his face. He felt so sure that somehow or rather he had managed to put in some doubts on Zaharah thoughts towards Adam. It seems that Zaharah is Adam's new found strength and he's determined to break it. He decide to go to his office that day to settle some task. As he was beginning to unbutton his shirt suddenly something had caught his attention. He walks towards the bookshelve and took a pocket book which was used to be his journal during his younger days. It was dark marron in color and it has been ages he has not written anything in it. He sat on his armchair and began to flip few pages of it which had began to turn yellow. As he was flipping through suddenly a photograph slips from one of the pages. He bend over and pick it up. It was a photograph of him and Adam during one of the camping trip which their father had enrolled them. He remember clearly that photo was taken when they both were still in high school. A sense of sadness began to linger in his mind. They were very close once and he always make sure nothing mishap came upon Adam. He was very protective indeed. There are so much resemblence in their looks. Zaki has lighter skin tone and he has beautiful hazel brown eyes whereas Adam is more darker and his eyes is dark brown in color. Everywhere they go people often assume them as twins. During his younger days he even kept his hair just like Adam. However things are different now and he refuse to have any resemblence just like Adam anymore.

"This is all your fault. How could you let your brother astray. Where is your responsiblity as a big brother? You're a failure." those words which was said to him by his father were written clearly in his journal and he recalls the day when Adam decide to rebel and he had to take in all the blame from his father. "It's unfair!"

"I had to do it to let him notice me again." another note written and this was the day when he betrays Adam about his secret attic. He had to do it to get his father's attention.

Zaki slammed his pocket book against the wall as he could not contain his anger anymore. He turn towards the mirror and look into his own reflection. "Am I a bad person? Was it all my fault? Fine, if they it think that way."
　
　
Zaharah went into Zayeed’s room and she saw that he was reading his morning paper. ‘I’m sorry pa. I should have knocked.” said Zaharah. Zayeed look up at Zaharah and put down his newspaper by his bedside. After taking off his glasses he began to stare at Zaharah and then he smile. He gesture towards Zaharah to sit beside him by the bedside. Zaharah walks slowly towards the chair and sat.
　
“I know you’re a very special girl because somehow or rather you have managed to make him understand what my hopes and dreams all about.” said Zayeed still looking at her. “I don’t know how many more months I’ve left and to be honest I’m afraid.” Zaharah remains silence and let Zayeed continue with his words. “All this time I had always wanted Adam to work with me. But look at me now. I don’t think I am able to assists him in anything. I want to be there with him once he reached his peak of success in my company. Ana was right. I’ve drove my son away. It is all due to my wrong moves."　
　

“Constantly blaming yourself won’t lead you to anywhere pa. Please don’t misunderstood me. Coming into your family eventually had really open up my eyes. I’ve seen a lot of love and joy in these family but things turns bitter due to certain material worldly things and that’s upsetting. I love Adam for what he is and for what he has becomes. What sadden me the most, brothers could not meet eye to eye because of mere worldly things. I had an older brother whom I love so dearly but he was taken so sudden away from me and it’s killing me just the thought of it. If having Adam to be part of your company is your only true hope and desire, please forgive me for my rudeness, I think your dream not only had upset Adam but also the other son of yours. Don’t you want them to be brothers like what true blood brothers are? “ She knew she had to bring out this thought sooner or later and she don’t mind taking the risk of being reprimanded by Zayeed for her comments.
　
Zayeed listen to Zaharah’s speech with full of interest and it seems that Zaharah’s had hit a hard note through his mind. Zayeed remains silence and began to think deep and realized that it is his own doing which had eventually drove both his sons away from him. He never listend to their needs and always think for himself. After Adam left , Zayeed had decided to disown him from his rights. And Zaki came to know about this. Zayeed had promises and give high hopes towards Zaki unknowingly that Zaki was not capable enough. Zayeed trading business began to plunge into heavy debts and he was in deep shocked when he received some remarks from his close clients that Zaki was also involved in some kind of shady business. When he confronted Zaki, Zaki becomes furious and denied all those accusation but Zayeed knew everything that fall through his ears were the truth. Zayeed was utterly disappointed caused all this while he had put in so much trust in Zaki. Actually at the beginning of it all he had Adam in his mind to be his successor but that was not meant to be therefore he decided to put Zaki incharge.
　
“I should not have given Zaki too much hope and promises when I knew deep in my heart he can never make it. You were right Zaharah. I had turn them against each other.” said Zayeed looking sadly towards Zaharah.

"But it's never to late pa. To put things right again." said Zaharah and she held Zayeed's hand. She was determined to make things better for the family. Zayeed felt relieve and his spirit lift up just the thought of it.


Zaki was about to step out from the house when suddenly he heard his name being call. It was Adam. He pretend to ignored and turn the door knob.

"Zaki please. What happen to us? Why can't you look at me anymore? You're my only elder brother and I have always respect you as one." said Adam trying to coax his brother to stay as he has a lot of things to say. Adam was trying his best to savage these sibling relationship.


"Zaki. Adam. Your father wanted to speak to both of you now in his room." it was Ana.


As Zayeed was sitting on his bed he looks out of the window. The sky was full of clouds by now and it has been ages he has not step out from his home. Suddenly he was a tiny yellow bird standing and began perching on the tree trunk which stood nearby his window sill. Zayeed knew his days were numbered now cause he begans to feel weaker in each passing day and at times his mind is not thinking straight. Therefore before it is too late he had to bring this matter out to both of his sons.

Zaki and Adam enters the room and Zayeed gesture both of them to sit by his side. Without hesitation Adam walk towards his father bedside and sat on the chair which was place near the bed. Zaki was still reluntant and prefer to stand avoiding any eye contact with his father and Adam.

"I'm sorry if I have taken your time Zaki. Please I need to talk to you. Both of you." exclaimed Zayeed as he looks sadly towards Zaki. Without saying anything he walk nearer to the bed and sat beside his father. Zayeed look at both of his sons and smile. How much they have grown and how much they have change. It seems like only yesterday they were just his little boys. By looking at Adam, he felt sure that Adam is happy cause calmness were written all over his face. But as for Zaki, what was found anguish, anger and tinge of sadness and Zayeed felt that he was to blame for all these.


"You're right Zaki. As a father I have failed." said Zayeed. Adam was about to protest to that statement however Zayeed look at him and smile faintly. Adam remains quiet and decides not to interfere on what his father going to say next.

"If only I'm more open to your dreams and passion Adam. And if only I will stop blaming you Zaki. Both of you won't have to face this kind of situation. If both of you feel like voicing out any dissatisfaction on these,please do it now. Don't bottle it all up in your hearts." said Zayeed hoping that his sons will be more open and willing to share how they had felt towards each other.

"What is done can't be undone. It getting late I need to go back to the office." exclaimed Zaki and he stood up and was about to leave. However Zayeed told him to sit cause there are more things which he need to convey.

"I know that death is aprroaching me soon. And I'm tired of fighting this. However what I'm hoping now is for both of you to be close again. Just like before. Therefore I have decided to put both of you in charge of my company but under different scope. Zaki I want you to be in charge of administration because I know you're excellent in that matter whereas for Adam I want you to be in charge of finance. That meants you need to go through our company accounts and some other money matters."

"I'm willing to take that offer pa, and I'm willing to learn. But I still need Zaki to guide me." replied Adam and hoping that all the misunderstanding which he and Zaki had will resolve once they both work together as a term.

"You will regret this." snapped Zaki looking intensely towards Adam. He stood up and left without saying anything else.

Adam was not surprised with his brother reaction but he was upset and Zayeed knew exactly how Adam feels.

"Too bad he got that attitude from me." said Zayeed and smile towards Adam. Adam look at his father. " Don't worry pa. I shall furfill your wish."



　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　
　

Adam's Eye : Chapter Nine

Adam rented a small car for their journey. Zaharah packed up some sandwiches and drinks because the trip will take them more then ten hours. After packing few clothes with them, they both headed towards the car. The ride was simply breathtaking. They pass through the hilly area and some greenery plantation. Zaharah looks out of the window and a strange feeling came upon her. It’s like a flashback , recalling the days when she had that long ride with Adam when they first came into that village. Everything looks the same however the feeling is different now. She turns to look at Adam and thought to herself. “Does he feels the same way too?”
After traveling for almost two hour, Adam decides to take a break and park his vehicle at one side of the road. Zaharah begins unpacking the sandwiches and handed them over to Adam. While taking their lunch they talk and giggle reminiscing back the days when they first met. Zaharah knew Adam was feeling excited and nervous about going back home it is just he pretends to act like he was okay.
“Adam, I’m with you alright.” Said Zaharah reassuring Adam. Adam looks back at Zaharah and smile. Their journey pass through Zaharah’s hometown. She crank her neck to look at the familiar views and was quite surprised cause there were so many changes. Most of the wooden houses has been torn down and replaced by stone houses. The old field which she and Izzaldeen used to play around while looking for firewoods also has been fence and it seems that land has been bought by some landlord cause it had a huge signboard that stated ‘Property Land’. Deep in her mind she was wondering to herself who was that person who could have bought that land. Adam notice Zaharah was lost in her thought. He smile “ So this is your home town. Yup I remember it very well when the first time I came to this place on our wedding day.” Zaharah turns towards Adam and smile then she look at her wedding ring.” If only Izzaldeen was there at that time..then I won’t feel so lonely.” Adam reaches out his hand and held on to Zaharah’s.
　
It was already almost dark when they reach the front poach of Adam’s old home. They both steps out of the car and Zaharah was amazed with the surroundings. The garden was huge and there were lots of exotic plants and flowers in it. The house was just like a mansion. She never seen these kind of living area throughout her life before.
“Are you ready?” ask Adam as he look at his old home while squinting his eyes again. He was taking deep breathing now and Zaharah could tell that Adam was very nervous indeed. Zaharah nodded and they both enter the front premises. Adam opens the gate to let Zaharah in then they both walk hand in hand to the front door. From outside they could see that the dim light in the hall and several other rooms was on. Adam straightened his back and rings the bell. Zaharah was feeling nervous too. She held her palms together as she waits for someone to open the door.
　
Suddenly they heard the click of the doorknob. There stood in front of them is Zaki. Adam and Zaharah were not expecting he’s the one to be welcoming them at all.
　
“What are you doing here?” asked Zaki. He looks so annoyed and it seems that the sight of Adam is like a disgusting vermin to him.
“I’ve come to see our parents.” Replied Adam calmly.
“Didn’t I warn you…you will only brings trouble.?” Said Zaki scornfully and refused to let them in.
“I have no time for all these. We are both very tired, we have traveled for almost half a day so please don’t stand in my way” Adam was getting piss off by now and he pushes Zaki to one side bringing Zaharah along with him.
Adam looks around and then he saw his mum Ana was standing by the stairways. Adam went over to her and hugged her. They both looks at each other for a moment and they both are in tears.
“Ma this is Zaharah, my wife.” Zaharah walks closer towards them. Ana reaches out her hand and touch Zaharah’s face. Zaharah could not contained her feelings anymore and gave her a hug. It felt good. Just like a motherly love which she has always dreamt of.
“You look tired ma. How are you coping up with this?” asked Adam as Ana bring them into their guest room. Ana gesture them to sit and call in the maid to serve some hot tea for them.
“I’m fine Adam. I just miss you that’s all.” Said Ana as she caress Adam’s hair and face. “You look so different now…more matured I guess.” Exclaimed his mum. Adam smile to his mum remarks.
“ Does my son gives you any trouble?” asked Ana smiling as she did so. Zaharah notice that Adam had gotten that gentle, comforting smile from his mother and this makes her feel more at ease.
Zaharah giggles “All the time…ma” replied Zaharah and it is such a delightful moment at last she can call someone ‘Ma’. “Thank you Zaharah for everything.”
Zaharah shakes her head and replies, “Please Ma. Don’t said that.” And reaches out her hand to hold on to Ana’s.
“I need to see him.” Requested Adam and he seems to be ready for all these.
Ana bring them into Zayeed’s room and they found that he was sleeping. The room was huge and strong medicine smell lingers throughout the area. Adam look at his father and his tears starts to well up in his eyes. Adam notice that his father’s face has sunken so much and he looks frails and tired.
“Zayeed….his here Adam.” Called Ana softly as she wakes him up. Zayeed stirs and look lost and then he saw Adam. Without hesitation he held out his arms,
gave a faint smile and said .” Adam you have come back. Is it true Ana or was I being hallucinating again.?”
Adam quickly went over to his father and gave him a hug. It was such an emotionally scene for them. Zaharah stood beside Ana and soft sob could be heard between them. Zaki stood at the door folding his arms across his chest. He was still feeling so sore about Adam returning back home. He roll his eyes and decide to leave the room.
“I’m back pa.” cried Adam as he held his father’s hand.
“You are not angry anymore. So am I. Please forgive me for what I have done to you ….” Before his father could finished his sentences Adam shake his head and replies.
“Everything okay now pa…don’t worry so much about the past.”
Zayeed looks at Adam and his pride and spirit begins to lift up. “ You’re indeed my son…my beloved son. You know how proud I am when I realized you had set up your very own business at such a very young age ….you’re just twenty-eight right?” “ I open up my small trading company when I was around your age too. I guess we are both the same…we had same dreams but different type of ventures.” Explained Zayeed as he sat on his bed with Adam by his side. Then he turn to look at Zaharah and began to stare giving that slitting eyes expression. And Zaharah realized that Adam got that trademark from his father and she smile. “She must be Zaharah. What a pretty girl..heeheehee.” exclaimed Zayeed. Zaharah went closer to Zayeed and give him hug. She felt so blessed now that she had someone to call ‘Pa’.
They talk until right pass midnight. Zaharah look at each and everyone of them. Ana she was such a sweet lady. She has a slender figure and she always had a smile on her face. She’s beautiful just like an angel thought Zaharah to herself. An exact replica of Adam’s family portrait which Adam has painted himself. Zayeed , he still do carry that stern face despite his illness. Tears of joy fells gently on her face and she looks at Adam. His spirit was so high just like a little kid telling to his father about his achievement after discovering the technique of tying the shoe lace. They both were laughing and giggling. It was such a beautiful sight and Zaharah was amazed by all these.
“Pa you need to rest now alright.” Said Adam as he stood up bringing the blanket to his father’s chest.
“You won’t leave again right?” asked Zayeed with a worried look on his face. Adam smile and shake his head. “No pa.” He kisses his father’s forehead and walks out of the room together with Zaharah and Ana.
Ana brings them to the other guest room for them to spend the night in. Adam gets their clothes from the car bonnet and goes back to the guest room. Then Ana look at both of them and smile. “Have a good rest both of you alright.” She kisses them and leave the room. Adam closed the door after his mother had left and went to Zaharah and hold her close to his chest. “Thank you Zaharah…you know how bless I am to have you as my wife.”
“And I’m blessed to have someone to call ma and pa.” replied Zaharah.
　
After such a long time they have not sat together as a family having breakfast. Adam helped to push his father who was on the wheelchair now towards the dining area. The room was very well ventilated as the huge windows allowing the rays of sunlight entering the room. The feeling was so cosy and serene. Zaharah feel kind of awkward because she never lived in a huge home before. But Ana who has a warm personality in nature makes Zaharah feel more at ease.They began to enjoy their breakfast, chatting and laughing and Zaharah knew Adam very well now because he seems to bring in laughter wherever he goes or whatever situation they were facing. Suddenly everything stood stills as Zaki came fumbling in. Apparently he was drunk and was trying to stay balance on the ground as he walks. He sat at the other end of the table and look directly towards his father. “Change of heart now father…huh…? Why did you have to ruin everything” shouted Zaki as he turn his attention towards Adam. Adam looks back and he was not looking very pleased about Zaki’s comment.
“Zaki, please go back to your room.” Said Ana gently hoping that Zaki will listen to her.
“Shut up old lady.” Shouted Zaki pointing his finger towards her.
Adam rose from his seat. He walks towards Zaki and grab his collar shirt. Zaharah was in totally stunned by all this commotion and grab Adam by his arm to calm him down. “Not in front of father please.” Whispered Zaharah. Adam turns to look at Zaharah and let go of Zaki. Zaharah notice that Zaki was looking at her in a lewd manner. Adam notice that and in a few seconds he threw a punch on Zaki’s face. Zaki fell stumbling over his chair and it took him quite a while to regain back his balance to stand up. Zaharah had to hold Adam to prevent him from attacking Zaki any further.
“He deserves that ever since long time ago. After you left Adam, all he does is spending my wealth on booze and woman. He’s the one who has been digging the grave for me..huh.” cried Zayeed trembling as he speaks.
After hearing this comment Zaki laughed heartily. “ Cause you fail as a father. You did nothing right. I ‘ve worked very hard pa…extremely hard for this business empire but what did I get…huh…mere twenty percent from your wealth and the rest you gave them to him..your ungrateful son who has walk out on you…! Wailed Zaki pointing his finger to wards Adam. Adam remained silence and for a while and then he replies,” You think I came back for all this? I came back because I want my family.” Zaki stumble and walks slowly towards Adam. He patted Adam on his cheek and then he walks out of the room.
　
Adam wheeled his father back to his room and put him to bed to rest. Zaharah holds on Ana’s hand and they both walk together in the room joining Adam and Zayeed. He was feeling exhausted and drowsy due to the medication which he needs to take. Zayeed fell asleep after a while Adam pull the blanket over his father and look solemnly at him. Turning to face his mum “Please forgive me ma for reacting that way just now. I really do not meant to hit him but he’s too much.” “It’s okay Adam. He deserves that long time ago. Blame it on your father for spoiling him and putting too much trust on him. After you left for just couple of months Zaki began to show his true colors. He came into your father’s business to almost ruin it due to his frequent drinking and he was not committed on making a deal with potential client. It was not only that but he became more deceitful and only cares for his only needs without reconsidering his father’s feeling. I strongly believe your father fell ill due to Zaki’s misdeeds. He was upset and very disappointed.” said Ana as she wipe the falling tears from her cheeks.
“I’m sure you and your ma needs a lot to talk about. I shall stay by father’s side.” said Zaharah as she drew her chair closer to the bed. Adam nodded and smile taking his mother’s hand and they both walk out of the room.
They sat at the garden porch and it seems that it has been ages they had not been sitting together having conversation like these. Even back during his childhood days it seems that his mother is the only person whom he can talks to. Adam had shared his dreams and hopes with his mother ever since they both discover that he had an artistic talent. To his surprised the garden still remains the same just like before he left. The orchids plant which was part of his favourite sketch material was still there and it seems that the garden was very well kept and he knew that his mother who was such an enthusiastic ’gardener’. On that very moment he realized that he had his mother artistic talent but in a different way and a smile broke on his face. Ana noticed and was wondering what was in Adam’s thinking right now.
“What could be possibly be so funny that you had that grin on your face?” asked Ana looking at Adam with a wondering look.
Adam looked at his mother and noticed that his mother looks tired and frail. No doubt that she is still beautiful despite her age.
　
“On the day we supposed to meet, I was already on my way towards the car when suddenly the maid called me and told me that your father had collapsed.” said Ana while looking at her favorite orchid plant solemnly . “ I rush to your father’s reading room cause that’s where I left him after we had a heated argument.” Sigh Ana and this time she turns her attention towards her slim slender fingers. “It was a terrible sight. Your father had a fit and this is the first time that such thing that ever happen to him. His whole body was shaking vigorously and his mouth started foaming.” Continue Ana and she began to tear up. Adam came closer and gave her a hug. He was speechless not knowing how to response to that. A tinge of gulit and remose began to set in his mind. If only he came back to his family earlier things might not be like what it is at this moment. He look up towards the sky. There were few clouds hanging floating above them. Rain will began to fall sooner or later. Suddenly the beautiful memories which he had with his father during one of the fishing trip which he was force to come along. He could recall that clearly even though he was only seven at that time. It was a short trip from their home but his father make him wakes up very early in the morning about six. He drag himself to the shower room and how he sulk when his mother makes him put on a shirt with a jumpsuit over it.
“With that face you’ve got, you’re bound to scare the fishes away.” cried Zayeed as he fasten Adam’s seat belt. Hearing upon that remarks Adam sulk even more folding his arms across his chest. He was wondering too why Zaki did not follow but he keep that curiosity to himself. After they reach the fishing pond, Zayeed choose a location which had some trees and rocks where they can have their breakfast and do his fishing there. Zayeed began to lay out the plastic canvas on the ground and then unpacking the breakfast as well. They both had some tuna sandwiches.For Zayeed he had a cup of coffe which Ana had pour for him in the flask while Adam had a packet of milk. Zayeed look at Adam and toss his hair playfully. Adam felt annoyed with this gesture and shake his head still sulking away while staring at his packet milk.


After breakfast, Zayeed began his task fixing his fishing gadget stuff. Adam look at how his father work on it with full of anticipation. He took some fresh prawn as the bait and place it on the hook. Then just like a pro Zayeed began his fishing quest. Something caught Adam’s attention and he walks towards his father’s fishing equiment without his father realizing it. He was impressed in the way his father had fix the bait to the hook and also the way his father had fix the string onto the fishing rod. Adam took out the string thinking that he will help his father fix the string to the rail first then he will continue with the bait. However he began to tangle up the strings into many knots and the more he tried to untangle them it becomes more difficult to untangle them. So he had almost part of his body with the string busying himself with that. Zayeed suddenly realized that Adam was not by his side so he place his fishing rod in between the rocks and call out to Adam. Then he saw Adam who was still struggling with the fishing string.
“What have you done?” cried Zayeed and he laugh upon seen his son’s being working very hard to free himself from the tangle strings. Adam look at Zayeed and give an innocent smile.”I love fishing pa! I love fishing.” Zayeed laugh heartily after Adam response to that.
　
“Adam.” Adam was caught in surprised cause suddenly he realized he was in the daze back to his past. “Sorry ma. I really miss al the wonderful time we had together as a family. If only I could be more responsible and be want he wanted me to be things might not turn out this way.”
Ana look towards Adam and reach out her hand to touch his face.”Adam we never blame you for all this. I mean there’s a blessing for all these happening if you realized it. Your father illness eventually had brought you closer to him and at last I’ve got to see and know Zaharah even more. Zaharah she is a very nice girl I can tell. She respect the elderly and I can see how much she loves you. So you must take good care of her. Be responsible and don’t ever break her heart.” Adam took his mother’s hand and nodded.