UNDER 168 HOURS [BOOK 1, 168 HOURS SERIES]

Chapter 69: It's Been A Long Journey!

Zainab open to Module 5 of the Comprehensive English textbook, where she's been staring for a while now.

"Should we read together? Why do you look so surprised?"

"I just don't know why you're here habeebah. And what are you doing on my desk?"
Habeebah's smile dropped almost immediately.
"Umm... I noticed that you were lost in thought and.. I wanted you to share your problems with me."

"I don't have problems!"

"Okay, fine. So what were you thinking about?"

It's none of your business! And why do you think I'll tell you anything?! Zainab asked with so much anger and fraustration.

Habeebah suddenly placed her hand on Zainab's arm and she flinched in pain.

"What's it? Are you bruised?" Habeebah asked in concern.

Zainab held her hand that was still paining and her head was aching. She rubbed her forehead simultaneously as if she was suddenly feeling dizzy.

"Are you alright? Habeebah asked. You look weak."

"Don't worry, I'll be fine." 

"Wait here! I'll get you some drugs from the school clinic." Habeebah muttered and went to the school clinic.

She's the only child of there wealthy parents and they've supported the school one way or the other but out of all the standard schools in Abuja, Habeebah choose to study in a public school.  She always told her father that she would learn better this way as everyone is equal.

She came back with a sachet of paracetamol and blood tonic and bought a bottle water for Zainab to use the drugs. Zainab used it and felt relieved almost immediately.

"I used to hear you lead the whole class before you wrote the entrance exam. I also heard that you scored the overall best in the entrance exam. So, what happened to you, Zainab?"

"I'm fine Habeebah, I prefer being alone."

"Just tell me and I promise never to tell anyone. You don't seem happy at all? I also heard Mr. Abdullahi Bala is your foster dad? Is it true?"

"Yes, Habeebah. It's true."

"Okay, that's great!" She smiled. I was thinking you should be happy at least, he's very kind and understanding."

"Yes, he surely is but for some reasons. I really miss my real parents."

"Why? What did they do to you?" Habeebah moved closer. Her eyes wondering Zainab's eyes for answers. She was just so concerned and wouldn't rest till she hear the full gist, like you.

"I got infected with a virus and I'm being maltreated for that." Tears lingered down Zainab's face.

"What? But why?"

"I don't know. Sometimes, I wish I understand why but right now, living seems difficult for me. I'm just pushing through for Allah's sake and for my sister, Humaira. I don't want to cause more pain to her."

"Look here, Zainab. Don't let anyone's insecurities, emotions, or opinions bother you because you're far beyond getting affected. I remember two years ago when you went for the 'Youngstars Science Awards.' I saw you on television and I was like Wow! I want to be like that girl. I wasn't a serious type, Zainab. But you inspired me."

"Really?..." Zainab looked so mesmerized

"Yes. Despite the fact that I schooled in Greater Heights Academy (one of the best private school in Abuja), I thought, why wasting so much on education when I can actually learn better in a place like this. So, I discussed it with my dad and he accepted. You have no idea how happy I was to get an admission here but look at you now?"