Ayesha and Hafsa were talking in the room when Rida came running over. After greeting them, she said, “I’m going to the mart, anyone coming along?”

They both nodded, and the three neighbourhood friends started walking together. While they strolled, Hafsa asked, “By the way, why are you going to the mart?”

Rida smiled, “Don’t you remember? Father’s Day is next week. I wanted to get something for Dad and celebrate it in a special way.”

Ayesha and Hafsa looked at each other, surprised and a little awkward. They had completely forgotten. But soon, they were all talking about how they could make it a special day.

As they reached the mart, they noticed it was already decorated with Father’s Day stuff. The shopping began. Rida picked out a wallet for her dad, Hafsa chose a nice perfume, and Ayesha… well, she stood there quietly.

A thought tugging at her heart, “Will Baba come home this time?”

Her father worked abroad and only visited twice a year, once at the end, and once mid-year. And Father’s Day usually fell around that second visit. She wanted to be hopeful, but she had overheard her mother telling someone on the phone that he might not make it this time.

So, while the others were excitedly shopping, Ayesha smiled faintly, her heart was caught between hope and uncertainty. She seemed lost in thought. The girls paid the bill and started walking back home.

Later that night, Ayesha couldn’t hold back anymore. She went to her mother and quietly asked if her father was definitely coming home this year.

Her mother gave a gentle smile, but her words were uncertain. “Sweety, I’m not sure. He said there are some unexpected tasks at work, and he needs to supervise them himself. Only once those are done, will he be able to take leave.”

“But Mum… why does Dad work in another country? Why not here?” Ayesha’s voiced with sadness. “My friends spend time with their fathers. They tell me every day how their dads are always around. I feel really sad sometimes… and there are moments when you, little Ali and I really want him to be with us. Why don’t you ask him to come back and stay?”

Her mother’s heart sank hearing those words from her. But she stayed calm and gently said, “Ayesha, do you really think every child gets to celebrate Father’s Day the way we imagine? There are so many children who have lost their fathers, who grow up without them. You’re lucky to have your father, even if he’s far away. He’s working there for your better future, for a better life for all of us.”

She paused for a moment before adding, “You can celebrate Father’s Day when he returns, it doesn’t have to be on a specific date. No day defines the love you have for your father. My dear, I understand your feelings more than you know. But we, as parents, carry your responsibilities on our shoulders. Both your father and I are doing our best to give you everything you need.”

Her mother looked into her daughter’s eyes and added gently, “And just think about him for a second, how much he must miss you, your brother, and me… how much he misses being home, laughing with you all, enjoying the little family moments we share. You’re not the only one feeling this distance.”

Ayesha felt a bit guilty for saying all that, but as her mother hugged her tightly and assured her that everything would be just fine in a little while, she felt relieved.

The next day, she poured her heart into creating a handmade card and a pen holder for her father. She used all her creativity, making sure every detail reflected her love. Once finished, she wrapped it beautifully.

In her heart, she made a quiet promise that when her father comes home, she’ll make every single day special. She would cook his favourite meals, make him tea just the way he likes it, and give him all the rest he deserved after working so hard for them.

Time passed, and soon it was Father’s Day. Ayesha knew her father wasn’t coming, but still, with a hopeful heart, she kept everything ready for him — the card, pen holder, everything she had made with so much love. That night, she went to bed peacefully, sending him a “Happy Father’s Day” message along with a few heartfelt texts filled with love and emotions.

But she noticed on the phone that the messages hadn’t been delivered. She waited, staring at the screen for a while, but eventually, sleep took over.

The next morning, the moment she woke up, she reached for her phone and checked the messages. Her heart skipped a beat they had been read.

But… there was no reply.

A wave of sadness came over her. Slowly, she got out of bed and walked out of her room. The house felt unusually quiet. She called out to her brother, then her mother but there was no response. And then suddenly, someone appeared in front of her.

Ayesha froze. She let out a scream of pure joy — it was her father! Tears filled her eyes as she hugged him tightly, unable to speak through the flood of emotions. It was the happiest surprise she could have ever imagined.

Published in Dawn, Young World, June 14, 2025