Chapter 5: New Beginnings
After her traumatic experience with her first employer, Nancy had been given a second chance at a new life in Saudi Arabia, thanks to the support of the Philippine Embassy. Her resilience had carried her through the darkest days, and now she was ready for a fresh start.
Nancy's journey brought her to a modest yet welcoming apartment in Riyadh, where she was introduced to her new employer, Zabid. He was a single father in his mid-thirties, a local Arabian, who had a warm and compassionate demeanor. His son, Badi, a bright and lively 7-year-old, greeted Nancy with a curious smile.
Zabid extended a hand in greeting. "Salam, Nancy. I'm Zabid, and this is my son, Badi."
Nancy offered a polite smile. "Salam, Zabid. It's nice to meet you both."
Zabid's eyes held a glimmer of kindness, and he gestured for Nancy to sit. "Please, make yourself comfortable. We're excited to have you here."
As Nancy settled in, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. The atmosphere in this new home was a world apart from the hostile environment she had endured in her previous employment. Zabid's apartment was cozy, with a blend of Arabian and Filipino influences, making Nancy feel more at ease.
Badi, who had been observing Nancy with curiosity, finally spoke up. "Mama told me we'd have a new helper. Will you play with me?"
Nancy's heart melted at the innocence of the young boy. "Of course, Badi. I'd love to play with you."
The bond between Nancy and Badi began to form quickly. They spent time drawing pictures, playing games, and telling stories. Badi's youthful energy was infectious, and it was a stark contrast to the turmoil Nancy had endured in her previous job.
Zabid watched with a smile as his son and their new helper connected. He was grateful for the positive change in the atmosphere in their home.
As the days turned into weeks, Nancy settled into her role as a domestic helper in Zabid's household. Her duties were clearly defined, and her employer was considerate and fair in his expectations. She felt a sense of purpose as she went about her work, knowing that her efforts were appreciated.
One evening, as Nancy prepared a delicious Filipino meal for Zabid and Badi, the aromatic scents of the dishes filled the apartment. Zabid, who had a deep appreciation for different cuisines, watched with interest.
"Nancy, this smells wonderful," Zabid said. "I'm eager to taste your Filipino dishes."
Nancy beamed with pride. "I hope you enjoy it, Zabid. It's a taste of home for me."
The meal was a success, and it became a tradition for Nancy to prepare Filipino dishes for the family. The flavors of her homeland brought warmth and comfort to their home.
Nancy's free time was often spent with Badi, teaching him Tagalog words and sharing stories about the Philippines. Badi was a quick learner, and he loved to explore different languages and cultures.
Zabid appreciated the positive influence Nancy had on his son. He approached Nancy one evening with a proposal. "Nancy, would you be willing to teach Badi Tagalog as a regular part of his education? I believe it would be a valuable skill for him."
Nancy felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share her culture and language. "I'd be honored, Zabid. I think it's a wonderful idea."
As Nancy and Badi's language lessons became a regular part of their routine, they continued to bond over shared experiences and the richness of their diverse backgrounds.
Nancy's evenings were often filled with laughter as she read Filipino folktales to Badi before bedtime. Zabid, who had a deep appreciation for the importance of storytelling, would join them, creating a sense of unity in their shared narratives.
One evening, under the soft glow of the lamp, Nancy shared a Filipino legend about the stars. Badi listened with wide-eyed wonder as Nancy painted vivid images of constellations and their stories.
Zabid, too, was drawn into the enchanting tale. "Nancy, your storytelling is captivating. I've never heard such beautiful stories about the stars."
Nancy's heart swelled with pride and appreciation. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Zabid. Our stories often hold a piece of our heritage, and I'm happy to share them with you."
As time passed, Nancy's bond with Zabid deepened. He had become not just her employer but a friend and confidant. They would often have meaningful conversations about their respective cultures, dreams, and the challenges they had faced in life.
One evening, Zabid opened up to Nancy about his own struggles as a single father, trying to balance work and being a loving parent to Badi. Nancy, who had her own experiences of facing adversity, could relate to his challenges.
"You're doing a great job, Zabid," Nancy reassured him. "Badi is lucky to have a father who cares so deeply for him."
Zabid's gratitude was evident in his smile. "And Badi is lucky to have you as his helper and teacher."
Nancy had found a sense of belonging and purpose in this new chapter of her life. The environment in Zabid's home was one of respect, understanding, and genuine care
. It was a stark contrast to the abuse she had endured in her previous employment.
Nancy knew that she had been given a second chance, and she was determined to make the most of it. Her newfound connection with Zabid and Badi, coupled with the freedom to pursue her dreams, filled her with a renewed sense of hope for the future.
As she looked ahead, Nancy was ready to embrace the opportunities that her life in Saudi Arabia offered, with a heart full of gratitude for the new beginnings that had come her way.