I wrung my scarf in my hands as I sat on an armchair in my bedroom, the colourful plush cushion wedged behind my sweaty back. I had finally managed the courage to announce to my husband, Fawad, that I would start working as a biomedical lab technician again. I had gotten an interview offer. Twelve years of marriage and two children later, I was tired of the same routine. I wanted my career back.

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