HUSNA

Chapter50

. "If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things."– Albert Einstein

************

She sat on the bed with one leg stretched out, a book resting on her lap. Exams started Monday, and it was already Saturday  she would be leaving Lagos for Kaduna tomorrow morning. Living with his family still felt overwhelming sometimes; they all seemed to genuinely like her. He, on the other hand, would be resuming work on Monday, Insha Allah.

Engrossed in her reading, she didn't hear him enter until he spoke.

"Miss bookworm," he murmured, lowering his head onto her lap.

She jumped slightly, startled. "You told me you weren't coming back yet," she said softly, placing the book on the nightstand.

He exhaled. "I'm tired. My head's hurting, so I decided to come home."

"Ya salam, sorry," she whispered, massaging his head gently. "Did you take anything?"

"No." His eyes stayed closed, enjoying her touch. "I was hoping you'd take care of me."

She clicked her tongue. "Captain, why don't you like medicine?"

He only shrugged, turning to face her and wrapping his arms loosely around her waist. "Did you talk to Aunty? How is Abba?"

Two days ago, a call had come...her father had collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. Hypertension and diabetes, the doctors said.

She had spoken to him today; he sounded better, at least on the phone. Still, her heart was heavy.

"Adda said he's fine, but..." She stopped mid-sentence, eyes shifting away.

"But what?" he raised a brow.

"Nothing," she muttered. She glanced at the wall clock....12:30pm. "I haven't greeted Mom yet. And I haven't seen the twins today."

"They went out," he replied. "What were you saying about your father?"

"Nothing, really." Her voice lowered. "I just pray he gets well soon, Insha Allah."

She couldn't tell him ...not now...not after everything he had already done for her family: renovating their house, finding her father a job. How could she ask for more?

He sat up slowly. "Get ready. Mom said I should take you to her sister's house." He chewed his lip. "But if you're tired, it's fine ...I'll tell her we'll go another day."

She nudged him. "Who said I'm tired? I didn't even do anything today. I think you're the one who doesn't want to go."

He sprang to his feet. "For some reason, I really don't."

She squinted. "What reason?"

He only shrugged. "Just get ready. Greet Mom first I'll be right back."

She stood up from the bed and walked to the closet. Pulling out a peach fitted dress, she slipped into it and then dusted a bit of powder across her face. She lined her eyes with kohl  something she wasn't used to  and they began to water almost immediately.