So close, yet so far

03

A month later....
KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Hauwa couldn't believe her luck. It had been a month since Sa'eed proposed, and she still felt like she was floating on air. She had never felt this way about anyone before. Sa'eed was the best thing that had ever happened to her - her soulmate, her everything.

Every time she looked at him, her heart skipped a beat. His dark skin radiated a warm and gentle glow, making his bright smile and piercing eyes shine even brighter. His kind and compassionate nature only added to his allure, making her feel safe and cherished.

Hauwa couldn't help but be swept off her feet by Sa'eed's charming and thoughtful ways. He was every girl's dream - kind, caring, and chivalrous. He always made sure she was comfortable and happy, offering his jacket when she was cold or bringing her favourite snacks.

As they spent more time together, Hauwa realised that Sa'eed was not only handsome but also intelligent, witty, and thoughtful. He made her laugh like no one else could, and his words were always filled with wisdom and kindness.

Hauwa felt like the luckiest person alive to have found Sa'eed. She couldn't wait to spend the rest of her life with him, creating memories and making more moments to cherish.

As Hauwa packed her clothes, the smile on her face was unmistakable. She couldn't contain her excitement, knowing that she was about to embark on a new adventure in Abuja, the city where her heartthrob Sa'eed and his family resided. The thought of being closer to him, surrounded by the people she loved, filled her with joy.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program was a mandatory one-year service for Nigerian graduates, and Hauwa had been posted to Abuja. She knew that this was more than just a coincidence; it was fate bringing her closer to Sa'eed. She envisioned the memories they would create, the laughter they would share, and the moments they would cherish together.

Although she would miss her family dearly, Hauwa knew that she wouldn't be alone in Abuja. She would be staying with her elder sister Aisha, who had been like a mother to her since childhood. Aisha's guidance and support would provide comfort in times of homesickness.

As she carefully folded her clothes and placed them in her suitcase, Hauwa's mind wandered to Sa'eed. She imagined the surprise on his face when she arrived, and the whispered promises of forever. She knew that their bond would only grow stronger, nurtured by the proximity and shared experiences.

The thought of exploring Abuja with Sa'eed by her side thrilled her. She envisioned strolls through the National Arboretum, visits to the National Mosque, and lazy Sundays spent watching the sunset together. Hauwa's heart skipped a beat as she imagined the adventures awaiting her.

With each item she packed, Hauwa felt a sense of anticipation building inside her. She knew that this was just the beginning of an extraordinary journey, one that would bring her closer to Sa'eed, to herself, and to the life she had always dreamed of.

The next morning, Hauwa finished packing the last of her belongings, her suitcase now bulging with clothes, memories, and dreams. She was excited to embark on this new adventure with her best friend Rahma, who was also posted to Abuja for their NYSC. As they prepared to leave, Hauwa's family gathered to bid them farewell.

Her mother and father, trying to appear calm, advised her as if she had never left home before. "Hauwa, always remember to pray on time, eat well, and be careful with the company you keep." Her father added, "And don't forget to save some money, you never know when you might need it." Hauwa smiled, knowing they were just trying to protect her, but she couldn't help thinking that they were behaving as if she had never left home before. Hadn't she already spent four years studying in Jigawa, away from their watchful eyes?