The Admiral's Daughter

Chapter 7

QOD "Love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired." _Robert Frost.

"Who would have thought you'll make it here? I thought you don't do crowds?"

"Is that how you welcome your guests?"

We both laughed as we shook our hands vigorously like old times.

"How was your trip?" Afeeyah asked.

"Same old."

"okay, you're still with this your bad character you know I hate single word replies."

"Atleast I gave two words, see? I'm coming up."

She let out a laugh and said "how about food. What would you like?"

"Something light."

"My henna isn't dried yet I would have made some chicken kapaya for you."

"Ahh ahn Afee fee, you and this your recipes, your husband will eat until he can eat no more."

"What can I say, I guess I was born to cook."

"Well that's a good thing, you'll save yourself some money, you should start an eatery, stop wasting talent."

"Yeah, he said so too, I've just been reluctant about it."

"You see he's already planning a beautiful future for you two."

Our conversations stretched out, weaving through topics ranging from the intricacies of our upcoming wedding to the broader canvas of a lifelong commitment. She approached it all with contagious enthusiasm, firmly believing that if it's meant to be according to Allah's will, everything will unfold seamlessly.

I couldn't help but admire her unwavering positivity – a fearless, optimistic approach to the wedding and marriage that seemed to elude any trace of anxiety. Her courage fascinated me, creating a stark contrast to my own more reserved perspective.

Amidst her infectious zeal, I found myself caught in the undertow of lingering doubts. It wasn't a lack of faith but a nuanced dance with uncertainty that colored my thoughts. While she stood on the precipice of excitement, I lingered in the shadows of contemplation. It led me to ponder the profound link between our thoughts and the essence of who we are as individuals.

Despite my reservations, my opinion remained steadfast. A subtle hope lingered, perhaps for an intervention akin to an "angel from heaven" that might provide clarity or guidance. If not, envisioning someone else capable of assuming such a pivotal role in my life seemed like a distant possibility, adding a layer of complexity to my reflections.

As these musings danced in my mind, a pleasant interruption arrived in the form of a dispatch rider from Albaik chicken. A mundane yet comforting occurrence, it signaled a break in the contemplative atmosphere. Deciding to indulge, I placed an order for a burger and fries. Looking ahead, I set my sights on the following day, anticipating a sweet exploration of local delicacies. It struck me as a small yet meaningful act, finding solace in the familiar flavors that anchored me amidst the emotional whirlwind.

In reflecting on this culinary divergence, This is the only place I get to feast on this cultural delicacies, unlike Abuja. The term "Tush" echoed in my mind, describing an environment where sophistication and continental vibes prevailed. This sharply contrasted with my desire to embrace the authenticity of local delicacies. Looking for these cultural foods wasn't just about eating; it became a way for me to stick to who I really am, especially when everything around is so modern.

In these moments, every little thing played a part in diving into my feelings and figuring out how old and new stuff fit together. It was like my thoughts and what happened outside were weaving this unique story, making life kinda like my own dramatic movie.

I ate my burger to crumbs and left some chips for Afee fee who went to wash off her henna.

On returning, she said, "So Asseem will be coming to see me later, and he's been dying to meet this sweet cousin of mine."

"Don't tell me you've been gossiping about me."

"Well yes, why not, atleast I'm one of those you talk to, and Aunty Falamta said I should introduce you to people, I should bring you out of your cocoon, so feel at home and leave your mind open."

We were still talking when her phone rang—it was him, the guy who had captured my cousin's heart.

"They're outside." She said after minutes of exchanging pleasantries with the other person.

"They?" I asked curiously.

"Yes he came with his friend, the youngest Prince of katsina, he's so handsome, you'll see."

I got curious when they brought someone else into our talk, but it also made me kinda mad. I started thinking, "Are they trying to set us up?" The situation felt tense and added some drama to the moment, leaving me unsure about what was really going on.

Sorry for the late update.
Lt. Naz has been busy!
Thank you for reading ! 🤍✨