BEYOND THE ABAYA

27. The Bookworms unite

Husnah and I stepped into the grand foyer of the government house, our eyes widening in awe. A friendly maid, dressed in a crisp uniform, greeted us, "Welcome, ladies! I'm Aisha.

"Hi Aisha. Nice meeting you. We're here to see Muyinah."

That was the time she seemed to notice Husnah. "Good morning Ma'am you're welcome. Please come in!"

Husnah and I followed Aisha, the friendly maid, through the grand corridors of the government house. As we approached Muyinah's room, my excitement grew.

Aisha knocked gently on the door, and Muyinah's voice called out, "Come in!"

Inside, Muyinah sat on a plush couch watching TV, her phone in hand, and a warm smile on her face.

Muyinah's room was a serene sanctuary, exuding warmth and simplicity. Soft cream-colored walls provided a calm backdrop for her treasured possessions. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves overflowed with books while a cozy reading nook beckoned with a plush armchair and floor lamp. Her sleek white desk held her MacBook , notes, and a framed photo of her parents, reflecting her dedication to her studies. A minimalist bedspread and elegant dresser added to the room's understated elegance. Personal touches, such as inspirational quotes and handmade decorations, revealed Muyinah's thoughtful and driven personality. The overall atmosphere was peaceful, inviting, and reflective of Muyinah's love for learning, simplicity, and personal growth.

Muyinah rose from her sitting position "Sister Husnah! Sister Islaha! Oh, I'm so glad you're here!"

She enveloped us in a warm hug, her eyes sparkling.

"Muyinah, your room is lovely." I said as my eyes wondered around the room.

Muyinah grinned, "Thanks! I spend most of my time here. Make yourself at home."

As we settled into a nearby couch, Muyinah asked, "Would you like some coffee? Aisha, please bring us some."

Aisha nodded and discreetly left the room.

Husnah started pressing her phone, while my eyes landed on the impressive bookshelf, "Wow, Muyinah, your bookshelf is amazing."

She smiled "Thanks! I love reading."

I stood up to scan the shelves, my fingers trailing over the spines
"The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson, The Constitution of Nigeria by Itse Sagay, International Law by Malcolm Shaw, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe, Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie, A Particular Kind of Black Man by Tope Folarin, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen."

My eyes widened in surprise. "You have an impressive collection of law and non-fiction books."

She laughed "I know, right? My dad's influence. He wants me to be well-rounded."

Aisha returned with a tray bearing steaming coffee cups and delicate pastries."Coffee, ladies?"

She served them and brought mine to me, "Thank you."

I sipped my coffee before I asked Muyinah, "I was hoping to meet the First Lady. Is she available?"

"She's in a meeting right now, but don't worry, she'll come by as soon as she's done. She's eager to meet you."

Husnah's raised her head for the first time to pick her cup that settled on the centre table "We're looking forward to it."

Just then, Muyinah's phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen and smiled. "Excuse me, I need to take this."

As Muyinah stepped away, I whispered to Husnah, "I'm surprised by Muyinah's book collection. She's more than just a governor's daughter."

Husnah smiled, "Muyinah's literally the best! She's super smart, kind-hearted, and always genuine. Her law skills are on point, and she actually cares about making a difference. I've seen her grow from this shy girl to a confident rockstar. Family means everything to her, and she'd do anything for them.