Affairs Of The Hearts |✅

54| His Precious Gem...

Abuja, Nigeria.

In the quiet solitude of his room, Jalal embraced her tightly, as if his life depended on it, whispering a single word, "Alhamdulillah."

When he felt it was enough, he gently pulled back, cupping her face and gazing into her deep, brown eyes. "I missed you," he murmured, placing a soft kiss on her lips.

"I missed you too, Ya Jalal... the days without you felt like hell."

"Trust me, it wasn't any easier for me, Jalilah." He led her to the couch, but before she could sit, he pulled her onto his lap, her head resting against his chest. With him, she felt a wave of peace wash over her. Oh, how she loved her man!

"Tell me how it all happened," he asked softly.

"I never saw it coming... I was so surprised neither you nor our family ever mentioned Ya Janaan."

"Janaan's disappearance was tragic for everyone. No one wanted to bring it up." He sighed, brushing her brow with his thumb.

"She told me everything... even about the incident between you two." She wrinkled her nose, pouting, which made Jalal chuckle.

"What incident, sweetheart?" he feigned innocence.

"You know what I'm talking about! The... the making out stuff. Gross!" She scrunched up her face as Jalal stared at her, amused.

"For God's sake, we were teenagers, Jalilah! Don't tell me you're jealous of this!" He laughed.

"Of course, I am! My elder sister and my husband once kissed!" she replied dramatically.

"You're so theatrical, Jalilah! Your sister is married now with kids, and your husband is married to the most gorgeous woman on earth." He smirked, flashing his charming smile that always made her heart flutter.

"Stop with the flirting; it won't work!" She glared at him.

"Oh, sweetheart, we both know it always works." He smirked, earning a playful punch on his chest.

"I'm going to follow Ya Janaan back to Coventry if this is how you treat me."

"I would never leave your side, let alone allow anyone to take you from me, Jalilah. I'll do whatever it takes to protect you; you're mine to protect. Anyone who dares to come between us will face the consequences. Even if it costs me my life, I'll protect you... my precious gem." With that, he pressed his lips to hers, conveying the words his heart couldn't speak.

---

They held a small, intimate dinner in Janaan's honor. The entire Marshall family, including those from Kano, flew to Abuja for her celebration.

Everyone expressed their gratitude to Allah through abundant sadaqah for the less fortunate. Alhaji Abdurrahman donated five million naira and food supplies to an orphanage, giving thanks for Allah's blessings on their family.

Hammad and the children were introduced to the family, filling their hearts with joy.

A week later, Janaan and her family returned to Coventry, promising to return to Nigeria permanently in three months. Jalal and Jalilah also went back to their home.