I started crying.
I told her about the arguments, the threats, the phone checks, and the way Khalid used Lina to keep me obedient. I told her how he could be charming to guests and cruel to me in private. I told her how ashamed I felt that I had allowed it to continue.
Huda listened without interrupting.
When I finished, she said something I had never heard from anyone before.
“You did not cause his violence, Amal. And you do not have to prove that you are a good wife by enduring it.”
I looked at her.
“What if nobody believes me?”
“Some people may not believe you. Some may believe you and still tell you to remain silent. But their reaction does not change what happened.”
She explained that she could help me contact a local support service and a qualified adviser familiar with family matters in Saudi Arabia. She reminded me not to make a sudden move that might put me or Lina in greater danger.
