Echoes of Agony

Chapter Thirty - Epilogue

FIVE YEARS LATER

AbdulJalal had a long and tiring day the day before, as he went to Jalingo for a business meeting and returned the same day. After coming back home, he was exhausted and quickly fell asleep. He was enjoying a peaceful slumber when he felt something lightly tapping on his cheek. At first, he ignored it and changed his position, hoping to continue his sleep. However, the tapping persisted, and he gradually opened his eyes. As he did, he saw the smiling face of the most precious person he had ever seen. The person chuckled at his groggy expression, and he furrowed his eyebrows, not understanding what was so amusing. Despite his confusion, he couldn't help but smile at the sound of their laughter, which was so full of joy and happiness. Feeling a sudden urge to embrace the person, he reached out and hugged them tightly, causing them to complain playfully.

"Daddy, daddy, I can't breathe!" the little boy giggled uncontrollably as his father tickled him on the bed.

"Okay, okay, I promise I won't tickle you anymore," AbdulJalal chuckled, giving his son a loving kiss on the cheek. "Did my little hero sleep well?" he asked, with a big smile.

"Yassss, and guess what? Mama's making pancakes for breakfast today. But she did say that if you don't get down here in a minute, you might miss out on them," the little boy exclaimed before jumping out of the king-sized bed and running out of the room.

"Be careful, little one!" AbdulJalal smiled warmly at his son before getting up himself, feeling grateful for his loving family. As he looked around, he saw that it was already 10 in the morning.

He stretched his arms and then sat up. He decided to take a quick shower first and reached for his wife's body wash because he loved the scent so much. The warm water felt soothing on his skin, and he took his time, enjoying the peaceful moment.

After finishing his shower, he grabbed a shirt and a pair of trousers and got dressed. He then made his way down the stairs, heading straight to the kitchen. Along the way, he noticed some of his son's toys scattered around the house, which made him smile. Despite having a huge room filled with toys, Isam AbdulJalal Sani, his 3-year-old lovely son, loved to bring them down to play around the house, resulting in AbdulJalal having to pick them up every time. But he didn't mind. He spoiled his son so much that he never scolded him, unlike his mother.

"Isam, you should always pick up your toys after you're done playing. I've told you more than once that you should never leave your toys in the kitchen, but you never seem to listen," his wife's voice was gentle, trying to teach her son the importance of being responsible.

"Mama, you always say the same thing, though," the little boy replied, still standing.

"Oh yes. Your daddy really spoiled you to this point. Wait and see how I'm going to punish both of you," AbdulJalal's wife said with a playful attitude. That made his smile even wider.

"You can't punish daddy. Daddy is bigger than you," Isam replied.

"Wait and see."

As AbdulJalal let out a hearty laugh, his eyes lit up with joy. He finally made himself noticed and felt a sense of accomplishment. Moving closer to his wife, he wrapped his arms around her from behind and held her close. Nestling his nose in his wife's neck, he took a deep breath and inhaled the sweet scent that he loved so much. The fragrance was a mix of his wife's body wash, scented humra, body spray, and her natural chocolatey scent. The warmth of their embrace was comforting, and it was clear that they shared a deep connection. It was a beautiful moment to witness their love for each other, and it brought a smile to AbdulJalal’s face.

"Good morning, my love," he greeted his wife with a deep, husky voice that sent shivers down her spine. Turning around, she pulled him in for a warm embrace and a series of tender looks, savoring their moments together.