Two Brothers, One Heart

Part 2: Chapter 47

Abuja, December 2024

"Listen, Rabin rai na," Zaynab whispered, her warm breath caressing Islam's ear, as she lifted her chin, their eyes locking in a tender moment. The scent of Zaynab's perfume, a subtle blend of rose and jasmine, enveloped Islam, comforting her. "Just be a good girl and don't cause trouble. You know how your father's family isn't too fond of us." Islam's lips parted, but words failed her, surprised by the affectionate nickname, as the soft hum of the car's engine and the gentle rustle of the trees outside created a soothing background melody.

As the chauffeur opened the door, a warm chorus of greetings enveloped them, accompanied by the sweet fragrance of ripe mangoes and the earthy smell of damp soil. The family's mansion loomed before them, its grandeur undiminished, but the lush greenery seemed to have lost its vibrancy, a testament to the approaching harmattan season, which brought with it the acrid smell of dry leaves and the faint tang of wood smoke.

"Sannu ku, welcome back," Big Mommy exclaimed, her voice like a warm hug, as she embraced Firdausi warmly, her perfume, a heady mix of musk and sandalwood, filling the air. Yasin sprinted towards Khalid, who looked dashing in his crisp green kaftan and cap, and swept his son into the air, their father-son bond palpable, as the sound of their laughter and the rustle of their clothes filled the air.

The entire Hadeja family had gathered, except for Goggo and Uncle Hassan, who was tending to her as her condition worsened. Uncle Yusuf, the tallest and oldest son of Goggo, stood out with his striking features - a long, pointed nose and curly hair, typical of a Fulani man, yet unmistakably Hausa. He greeted Islam and Firdausi with a gentle pat, his towering height awe-inspiring, his deep voice rumbling like thunder on a summer day.

His wife, Aunty Juwairiyya, stunning in her burgundy laffaya, stood by his side, her height dwarfed by his, her golden jewelry glinting in the sunlight, casting a warm glow on her face. Their son, Ja'afar, a miniature version of his father, looked at Firdausi with a quizzical expression, his awkwardness mirroring hers, as the sound of birds chirping and the distant rumble of a generator created a soothing background hum.

As Big Mommy approached, her warm smile radiated like a sunbeam, accompanied by Amira, affectionately known as Ummita. Amira's arm encircled Firdausi's waist, who forced a smile, her eyes betraying a hint of discomfort. "Didn't you miss me?" Amira asked, her voice like a gentle breeze, as Firdausi's lips curled into a feigned smile.

Aunty Laraba stood elegantly, her Ankara skirt and peplum blouse adorned with intricate patterns, her scarf perfectly tied. Her eight children surrounded her, a testament to her nurturing spirit. Ummusalma and Hafsat, the identical twins, had returned from their nursing program at Bayero University, their faces aglow with excitement. Habibah, Maryam, Najwa, Farhan, Amir, and Adil, the mischievous boys, completed the lively gathering. Aunt Madina and Sagir's presence made the family whole, filling the air with laughter and warmth. A full house, indeed!

"We didn't know you're raising princesses Khalid" Uncle Yusuf began his playful banters , his deep voice rumbling like thunder, as Islam's cheeks flushed with a shy blush. She and Firdausi performed a traditional curtsey, their respect evident in the gentle dip of their heads.

"Beautiful girls, but you're hiding them from us!" Juwairiyya teased, adjusting her jersey veil, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "You're postponing Islam's wedding, and we won't let you!" Ja'afar, lean and tall like his father, smiled, revealing a one-sided dimple, his well-trimmed beard framing his face. Zaynab's gaze lingered on Firdausi, her eyes hinting at a secret plan, as Firdausi quickly looked away.

As they stepped onto the interlocked flooring, the sound of their footsteps echoed through the air, accompanied by the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the warmth of the sun on their skin. Islam felt complete bliss, surrounded by her loving family once more. Yasin, Farhan, Amir, and Adil ran around, their laughter and shouts filling the air, like horses prancing in a field.