Chapter 39 My Father Disown Me

‘That’s not an answer either, but yes, I have.’ He spoke evenly, but she still felt the ocean of pain underneath. ‘My father hurt me when he chose to disown and banish me.’

‘Oh, Abdullah.’ She bit her lip, remorse rushing through her. ‘I’m sorry. That was a thoughtless question for me to ask.’

‘Not at all. But I want you to answer my question. What were you talking about when you said friendship wasn’t worth the risk?’

‘I had a friend once,’ Amira said slowly. ‘And he let me down rather badly. He—betrayed me.’ She shook her head. ‘That sounds melodramatic, but that’s what happened.’

‘He,’ Abdullah said neutrally, and with a dart of surprise she wondered if he was actually jealous.

‘Yes, he. But it wasn’t romantic, not remotely.’ She sighed. ‘It was stupid, really. I was stupid to trust him.’

‘So this man is why you don’t trust people?’

‘I’ve learned my lesson. But I trust you, Abdullah.’

She heard his breath come out in a rush. ‘Maybe you shouldn’t.’

‘Why do you say that?’

‘Do I need