The Power Of Calmness

Chapter 59

Soon-to-be Bukar's.

There are a hundred and one reasons, as to why a house would be filled with people, running up and about, to and fro, to put things together and in order. In this case, we know there's a wedding about to happen, the bells are jingling. In a week's time, two lovebirds are going to be united forever and, everyone is putting in so much effort to to make sure that everything runs smoothly without any hassles.

It has also been a week since the children's visit to Mahmoud. They returned home looking happy and joyful, which was quite an indication and relief that all went well. Hanan couldn't stop talking about her little tea party and also, Mahmoud's promise of wanting to open a tea shop for her, when she grew up. Aaliyah being Aaliyah, was, well content that after all that has ensued, they were still going to have a connection and relationship with Mahmoud. For the very first time, she was open and actually spoke to Habeebah about her feelings and expectations of their visit, not forgetting to opt out the stunt her brother pulled, while they were away. Habeebah was pleased to see and hear that, they actually liked it over there. Even though they didn't say, their comportment gave "There might be a next time." She was glad Mahmoud didn't tamper with the little trust she put in him and made their stay worthwhile. All Adnan uttered when he was asked about his stay was, "good ." He didn't bother to buttress and Habeebah didn't fret much over him because, his eyes that always held this certain form of resentment whenever Mahmoud was being spoken of, had some sort of colour to it. She decided not to prod, for she knew he'd come around eventually.

Adnan's conversation with Mahmoud played out nicely, although it was a bit awkward and stiff because both were uncomfortable at first or rather, let's say, Adnan made Mahmoud uneasy. Mahmoud was in the kitchen trying to put dinner together, when Adnan came in. He threw a small smile as he acknowledged his presence, leaning on the door. To Mahmoud's astonishment, the boy gave a curt nod as well. That was a first. He resumed chopping some onions, when the next question that followed, had him in a short faze.

"Is there anything I can help you with?" Adnan asked, nervously tapping his feet. This, was hard for him. He had to conjure up alot of willpower to do this and, if Mahmoud was to decline, that'd be his last attempt.

"Yeah sure, you could help keep an eye on the rice and maybe make a smoothie for your siblings?" Mahmoud's reply was more like a question. He also didn't know how it'd sit with the boy being that, he was not expecting a question like that from him. Adnan nodded, muttering an okay.

Mahmoud had to be sure so he asked, "Are you sure?"

"Yeah, it's all good." Adnan replied, moving to do what he was asked to. 'Alright so, the first step was clear but how do I begin to converse with him? What do I say?' He thought. Before he could think it through, he found himself blurting out. "I see you got a new place."

Mahmoud wearily looked at him, wondering, 'Is he really trying to make conversations? With me?' He was surprised, what changed? Adnan would never spare him a glance yet, here he was trying to talk. "Yeah, I saw no reason to stay at the old house and besides, I couldn't receive you guys there." He responded, guaging his stance.

"That's reasonable." Adnan muttered, enough to his hearing, his eyes glued to what he was doing. "But, why stay alone? It is a big house and, you don't see need for anyone? Even a housekeeper?"

Mahmoud smiled, chuckling a bit. "I don't need them Adnan. After years of being alone, I think I am now accustomed to the loner lifestyle and, cleaning after myself is my outlet to avoiding worries."

"I see." Adnan replied, his tone giving understanding. "Any woman yet?" He asked, picking his eyes from the table counter, to stare at his father.

Mahmoud laughed heartily, tears at the brim. Where was this question coming from? "No, there hasn't been anyone. There is no one."