BEYOND THE ABAYA

22. The Path Ahead

As we drove to Ya Bilal's cabin, the city's bustling streets gave way to quieter outskirts. We left behind the neon lights and billboards, replacing them with lush greenery and open spaces.

The road wound through rolling hills, verdant pastures, and clusters of tall trees. Flowers stretched towards the sky, their bright faces beaming warmth.

We crossed a small bridge spanning a gentle stream, its gentle gurgling accompanying us for a brief moment. The air filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.

As we continued, the landscape shifted to dense foliage, with vines crawling up electricity poles. Birds flitted between branches, their melodic songs filling the air.

The cabin emerged from the verdant surroundings, a serene haven. Bisola parked, and we stepped out into the peaceful atmosphere.

Ya Bilal's cabin was on the hill. Overlooking a tranquil garden. The door opened to reveal a cozy living room with large windows, framing the green views.

"Welcome, Islaha, Bisola," Ya Bilal said warmly, his eyes smiling behind his dark shade. I wasn't surprised by him calling Bisola's name as if they knew each other before, but then we're talking about Ya Bilal, aren't we? 

The house reminded me of his simplicity and nature. Plants and books filled the shelves, creating a calming ambiance.

We settle into the single couch, surrounded by the soothing sounds of birds chirping outside.

Ya Bilal offered refreshing tea, "I used the herbs from my garden to make the tea."

"Oh wow! I'd love to try it." Bisola said excitedly

I sniffed it. "It smells nice."

He smiled before going to the chest of drawer opposite us, grabbing a packet of cube sugar. "Bisola this is my cabin." The smile not leaving his face. "Here we can discuss anything without distraction."

"It's a nice place Ya Bilal. Nice to meet you." Bisola replied him with a similar smile.

He grabbed a stool and placed it opposite our couch to have a better view of us. "I know, right."

"Do you mind taking us to tour the vicinity?" I suggested thinking it was the only thing that can help me calm myself.

Ya Bilal nodded. "Yeah, sure. Finish your tea first."

Bisola turned to look at me "But it's already dark Islaha."

"I've installed SolarFlare path lights along the walkway." Ya Bilal said and we all nodded as we continued sipping our tea.

As we stepped outside the cabin's back door, the darkness enveloped us. The soft glow of the pathway solar lights, just as Ya Bilal had mentioned, guided our steps.

Bisola's eyes widened as she spotted the patio. "Wow!" she exclaimed. "The string lights around the patio are so cozy."

Ya Bilal smiled, pleased with her reaction. "Follow me," he said, his voice low and mysterious. "I want to show you something."

Curiosity piqued, we followed the pathway lights, winding through the lush garden. The soft crunch of gravel beneath our feet accompanied the gentle chirping of crickets.

As we turned a corner, the pathway opened up to reveal a serene river, its gentle waters reflecting the starry sky above. The sound of softly lapping water against the shore created a soothing melody and the AquaGlow Floating Lights made it more inviting.

Bisola gasped. "This is breathtaking!"

My eyes sparkled. "I didn't know this was here."

Ya Bilal smiled, satisfied. "I wanted to save the best for last. This river is one of my favorite spots."