The Power Of Calmness

Chapter 52

In Shock

She sat nervously on the couch, with a racing heart; fiddling with her fingers as sweat coated her brows. “Did something happen? Why are they here?” She asked herself. This was their first meeting and, she couldn’t be this way in front of them. She was already in worry and tensed from the call she got yesterday and now, this? A lot was happening lately and, wrapping her head around all of it seemed to be getting difficult as each day passes.

She watched on as Umma and Humairah exchanged pleasantries, putting on a smile whenever their forms wavered towards her. Habeebah was busy, with her thoughts as always when Aaliyah ran in to inform her that she had visitors. Sitting up from her laying position, she looked to her daughter in confusion. “Who are they?” She inquired, rubbing off the stress from her eyes.

“I don’t know Mami, I have never seen them before. Umma just asked me to come call you.” Aaliyah replied shrugging.

“Okay my dear, I’ll be down shortly.” Habeebah gritted, trying to swallow down her frustration.

“Mami? Are you okay?” She asked, staring intently at her. “You are not looking quite yourself today, yesterday, day before yesterday, in a nutshell; for a week or so now.” She stated her observations.

Habeebah smiled at her mirthfulness, chuckling. They always knew. Even with her strong guard, they saw through her. “I am fine sweetie, Mami is just feeling a little bit of the radar.” She replied, caressing her cheek.

“Hmmm,” She hummed, unconvinced. “I will try to believe you and not poke too much. But whatever it is Mami, try to wear a smile for us, please.” Aaliyah coalesced with a grin. Habeebah roared out a laugh, nodding her head vigorously in acknowledgement. “Your guests, remember?” She reminded her before leaving the room.

She felt calmness wash over her after her pep-talk with Aaliyah, for a second there she forgot she was bothered. Her worries went moderate for the time being not until she got downstairs, to find the people who came to see her.

Bashir’s mum and sister in-law, Nana and Sabreen.

Habeebah has never met Nana in person but, she could never miss out on Bukar’s face anywhere she saw it. It was like she was seeing a female version of him, more like a twin. She was so beautiful, her daughter in-law was too. They were engaged in a conversation with Umma and Humairah, she could even see that Humairah and Sabreen clicked already as they were seated together holding hands having a cheerful discussion. Her presence wasn’t quickly noticed not until she sat down. 

“There you are, we have been waiting for you.” Umma said, smiling.

“Good day Nana.” Habeebah greeted, falling on her knees. “You’re welcome to my home.”

“No get up my dear,” Nana stood up, moving to where she knelt. “I’d rather you hug me instead.” She added pulling her into an embrace. Habeebah shyly acknowledge the gesture, getting up on her feet.

“Bash sure has eyes for good things.” Sabreen commented grinning. The smile on Umma and Humairah’s face could lit up an alley.

“Indeed Sabreen, he does. She is so pretty.” Nana agreed, pulling her to sit by her side. “How are you doing love?”

“I am fine Nana, thank you.” She replied, meekly.

“Hi sister in-law!” Sabreen waved  from where she was seated, standing up to hug her. “I am Sabreen, Bash’s sister in-law.” She introduced.

Of course, she was the Sabreen. Habeebah beamed; she was lively and jovial, no wonder her sister befriended her. “It’s nice to meet you Sabreen, I trust you are fine as well?”