Fragments of forever

chapter 1 : In the calm of love.

📍Skyline University Kano

Fatima hurriedly exited the school, exhaustion and nervous energy evident in her steps. She pushed past the main gate, her gaze scanning the line of parked cars as though searching for something—or someone. Dressed in a flowing black Hanayen abaya, her CrisBella school bag hanging on one shoulder, she clutched her phone tightly, looking restless.

Her eyes locked onto a sleek black tinted BMW parked nearby. Without hesitation, she rushed over, opening the passenger door and sliding into the seat with a soft thud.

“Assalamu alaikum,” she breathed out, turning her head to look at the driver. He was a strikingly handsome man, his sharp features softened by the warmth in his eyes as he looked at her.

Before he could say anything, Fatima, in her usual soft-spoken yet playful way, cut him off.

“Before you say anything, I know I'm late,” she began quickly, her words tumbling over each other. “I kept you waiting. You missed Jumma’a prayer, and I'm really, really sorry. Wallahi, I didn’t mean to.”

Farouk raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering across his face as he glanced at her. After a long pause, he shook his head, a teasing smile spreading across his lips.

“You’re short,” he finally said, leaning back against his seat.

Fatima’s eyes widened, feigning indignation. “Kaima haka (you too),” she shot back, giving him a playful glare.

He laughed, the sound rich and full, filling the small space between them. After a few moments, he started the car, the engine purring to life. “How are you, my cupcake?” he asked, his tone light, but the affection unmistakable.

She smiled, leaning her head back against the seat. “I’m fine, but wallahi, I hate school.”

Farouk chuckled, casting a side glance at her. “That’s easy to fix. Let’s just elope and get married.”

Fatima raised an eyebrow, a mischievous grin tugging at her lips. “Hmm, not a bad idea. I think we should go to...”—she paused dramatically, tapping her finger on her temple—“Paris.”

His laugh was deep this time, genuine. “Yes, yes, Paris,” he echoed, playing along. “We’ll run away, live under the Eiffel Tower, and never look back.”

They shared a moment of laughter, the ease between them palpable. But as they merged onto the main road toward her home, the mood shifted. Farouk's expression turned more serious, his voice lowering slightly.

“Fatooshii, I think it’s time we start talking about something important,” he began, glancing over at her.

Fatima’s smile faltered slightly, sensing the shift. “What’s that?” she asked, her voice curious but calm.

“I think we should settle down,” he said, his words deliberate. “We’ve been together for two years now. We understand each other, and our families are on good terms. You’ll finish school next year. It just... feels right.”

He paused, taking a deep breath before continuing. “I was thinking of talking to Baba... asking him to come with the kudin aure (engagement money). You know, to make everything official. The proper way.”

Fatima was silent for a moment, her face thoughtful. She looked straight ahead, processing his words before finally turning to him with a smile, her tone teasing.

“Then do it, Babu. Tell them. I want to settle with you too. I think we’re ready. And please, don’t act like you had to convince me!” She laughed lightly, adding, “The way you were so serious, like I’d say no!”