So close, yet so far

06

ABUJA, NIGERIA

"OMG! Is that a freaking Leica 0-series?!" Hauwa asked with wide eyes as she stared at the camera like it was her ticket to paradise.

Hauwa's eyes remained fixed on the camera, her gaze intensifying as if willing it to materialise in front of her. Her fascination was palpable, even through the screen. Sa'eed chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he leaned back in his chair, clearly delighted by her enthusiasm.

"Wow, you really know your cameras!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with admiration. "The Leica 0-series is a legend among photographers. Only a few hundred were produced, and each one is a masterpiece. I'm impressed you recognized it so quickly."

Hauwa's face lit up, her cheeks flushing with excitement. "I may not be a professional photographer, but I've always been passionate about photography. I've spent hours poring over books and online forums, learning about different cameras and techniques. The Leica 0-series is like the holy grail of cameras – I never thought I'd see one in person, let alone owned by someone I know!"

Sa'eed smiled, his eyes sparkling with pleasure. "Well, I'm glad I could surprise you. I inherited it from my grandfather, who was an avid photographer. He used to take me on photo walks around the city, teaching me about composition, lighting, and the art of storytelling through images."

As they continued to chat, Hauwa's gaze never wavered from the camera, her eyes drinking in every detail. Sa'eed laughed, his voice warm and gentle. "You're making me feel like a proud parent, showing off my baby to the world. Would you like to see more of it?"

Without waiting for a response, he carefully lifted the camera from its perch and began to rotate it, showcasing its sleek design and intricate mechanics. Hauwa's eyes followed every movement, her mouth agape in wonder. The soft glow of the video call illuminated her face, casting a warm light on her features as she marvelled at the camera's beauty.

As Sa'eed continued to share stories about his grandfather and their photography adventures, Hauwa listened intently, her imagination running wild with visions of vintage cameras, dusty darkrooms, and the art of capturing life's precious moments. The camera became a symbol of their shared passion, a bridge connecting their hearts and minds across the digital divide.

The video call stretched on, the hours slipping away like grains of sand in an hourglass. Yet, neither Hauwa nor Sa'eed noticed the passing time, lost in their conversation, their words flowing like a gentle stream meandering through a sun-drenched meadow. As they delved deeper into their shared love of photography, their connection grew stronger, their bond forged in the fires of creativity and mutual admiration.

Bbu The trance was broken when Hauwa heard shouts downstairs, the sudden noise jolting her back to reality. She immediately bid Sa'eed a hasty goodbye, her eyes apologetic for the abrupt departure. "I'm so sorry, Sa'eed, I have to go. Something's happening downstairs." Without waiting for a response, she ended the call and rushed out of her room, her heart racing with concern.

As she descended the stairs, the shouts grew louder, the words becoming clearer. Hauwa's stomach twisted into a knot, her senses on high alert. She entered the living room to find her elder sister Aisha standing in front of an elderly woman, whose face was red with anger. The elderly woman's voice boomed through the room, her words piercing the air. Aisha's eyes brimmed with tears, her face contorted in pain, as she begged the elderly woman to stop.

Hauwa's eyes widened in shock, her mind struggling to comprehend the scene unfolding before her. She felt a surge of adrenaline, her instincts urging her to intervene. But she hesitated, unsure of what was happening or how to diffuse the situation. Her gaze locked onto the scene before her, her heart racing with anticipation.