The Blind Beggar: Part XII

The door to the elevator opened. Amal’s children exited and started walking but Amal was planted where she stood.  After a couple steps the kids realized their mother wasn’t behind them.  When they turned to see where she was, they instantly recognized fear in her eyes.  The two oldest boys laughed.  “Mom, don’t be afraid.  He’s not going to hurt you.”  Amal could only shake her head slowly. 


Adeline said as she reached for her mother’s hand, “Mama, don’t be afraid.  Mr. Daiwik is there.  The blind man isn’t bad, you’ll see.” 


Slowly Amal stepped forward.  Her daughter’s gentleness soothed her soul and she felt strength returning.  Still, she knew she could not reveal she knew Ali when she was a child.  Due to their young ages, the children might like the idea.  Her husband would not be pleased. 


When they reached the door, it was expected for Amal to ring the doorbell.  Her arms wouldn’t move.  She prompted Adeline to do it and she cheerfully reached up and pressed the button. 


Madhura answered the door and, upon seeing Amal and the children, greeted them with a warm smile.  Amal was mute.  The oldest son spoke up saying respectfully, “If it is possible, we would like to meet the blind man, please.”


“Oh, I am so sorry but he and Daiwik left about 30 minutes ago.  Daiwik wanted to ensure he safely reached the place he will stay tonight.”


Dejected, Adeline asked, “So he isn’t here?”


“No, my sweet little one but don’t worry, you will meet him soon enough.”


Relief washed over Amal and caused her eyes to flood with tears.  Madhura saw this and quickly sent the children to their apartment before they saw their mother crying.  Madhura led Amal by the hand to a chair and had her sit and then went to the kitchen to make some tea.  As the water heated, she returned and sat next to Amal.  They sat in silence for a few moments. Finally, Madhura asked, “What is it with Boulos that stirs you so?  Do you know him?”


Amal nodded absentmindedly.  Then, haltingly, Amal explained she knew an orphan boy.  She mentioned how she brought him food and the two became close friends.  She briefly described the fire accident that left him with the burns on his face and seemed to be the catalyst for his blindness.  She was certain this blind man was her childhood friend. 


Madhura considered this information for a moment.  Then she asked. “Did you love him?”


Amal was shocked by the question and abruptly turned to Madhura but said nothing.  Her mind raced for the best answer.  She didn’t want to give away this information but didn’t think a complete lie would suffice with the manner in which she acted.  Finally, she said, “I suppose.  As much as any child can love another.” 


“Why are you are afraid to see him?”


“What if my family finds out I once knew him?  What if he doesn’t remember me?”


“How could he ever forget a lovely flower such as you?  I will ensure you will meet Boulos in privacy.  You leave that to me.  It will be our secret.”