"Sometimes I wonder how much fear one person can possibly hold inside before they explode or implode. But I guess, either way, you end up splattered."

Secrets rip you apart. It is never a question of if, but when. Maria Sultan bides her time, hoping her love for another woman will not take her entire world down with it. But how long can she hide before she has to confront her truth? How long before she accepts that her feelings are valid? And will anything be left for her when she does?

Quotes from Holding Her Hand

“Strands of her dark hair fall across her forehead and she is so breathtaking I cannot believe someone like her is mine.”

— Arham Bhaiji Life Hope

“Whatever my mother may know on a subconscious level she will never choose to believe.”

— Arham Bhaiji Hope Truth

“My mother is laughing and shaking her head as Sam whispers something in her ear and my heart skips a beat at the picture that flashes through my mind.”

— Arham Bhaiji Love Wisdom

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Reviews (6)

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★★★★★ By Ahmed Moin 24 April, 2018

The story is pieced together from multiple perspectives which can be a daunting style to emulate. Fatema B seems to know her way around it well. Her voice holds true through out the narrative here. One can relate to how strong the confines of out societal pressures and religious assertions can be.

That being said, as a reader, I felt like there was a missed opportunity. A practical path could be laid out for people that face similar circumstances. Seeking asylum abroad for e.g. among some of the current possible avenues.

★★★★★ By Madeeha Qureshi 19 January, 2017

Absolutely loved it!!

★★★★★ By Buddhika Badalge 11 January, 2017

Loved how authentic the story of Sam and Maria felt as it takes a look at the real fear that resides inside the members of the LGBTQI community. Looking forward to reading more from you!

★★★★★ By Uzma Alimudeen 11 January, 2017

★★★★★ By Charvi Janathri 10 January, 2017

One of the most beautiful pieces I have ever read about love

★★★★★ By Aaisha Saeed 10 January, 2017

Amazing read! Had me hooked till the last page. Never stop writing, you have a beautiful gift!

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About the Author

Arham Bhaiji Author

Arham is a writer by passion and a programmer by profession. When they aren't playing with make believe people in their head, they are yelling at some code on their laptop or running their queer lit magazine; Outcast. Their work has been most recently published in Sanctuary: Short Fiction from Queer Asia and The World That Belongs To Us: An Anthology of Queer Poetry.

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