02/03/2025

Whilst preparing the meal at Ambridge Hall for breaking their fast, Azra disapproves of Zainab applying to work at The Bull, a pub. Lynda admits how tricky she’s found the fasting, but Azra appreciates the effort Lynda is making to share their experience. Azra then queries Zainab taking part in the Tearoom’s pancake eating competition on Tuesday. An eating competition is not really in the spirit of Ramadan, even if it doesn’t start until after sunset. Zainab talks Azra round, claiming she’s doing it to help their neighbours, who have put themselves out to accommodate her . Besides, Azra is over-catering with this meal, so what’s the difference?

On a walk with Monty, after nipping into The Bull, Lynda tells Khalil how sorely tempted she was by Fallon’s brownies. Khalil extols mind over matter, before they compare and contrast Lent with Ramadan, coming to the conclusion that they are both testing in their different ways.

Later, as they prepare to break their fast, the Maliks explain the meaning of the Arabic prayers they recite, when the doorbell rings. It’s Akram, Azra’s husband, who has finally come home. Zainab and Khalil are thrilled at the lovely surprise, while Azra admits she kept his return secret so as not to spoil it for them. Akram gives Lynda some traditional presents from Adil for her and Robert. Azra then takes Akram to see the house on Beechwood, but they can’t stay long because of the smell. It will take ages before they can move back in, but at least they do have another option.