Fickle

Chapter 54

In the weeks following her conversation with Alia, Kulthum found herself caught between the demands of her career and the emotional needs of her children. The twins’ contrasting ways of processing Abdullah’s absence often pulled her in different directions.

Jenna’s optimism and attachment to her father blossomed more visibly each day. She wrote letters to Abdullah with scribbled pictures of their family, mailing them with a sense of excitement that warmed Kulthum’s heart.

“Mommy, do you think Daddy will like my drawing?” Jenna asked one evening, holding up a crayon rendition of their family standing in front of a grand palace.

Kulthum smiled. “I think he’ll love it, Jenna. It’s beautiful.”

Hudayfah, on the other hand, remained reserved. He often retreated to his books or his sketches, quietly observing the changes around him. Kulthum tried to engage him gently, ensuring he didn’t feel overshadowed by Jenna’s enthusiasm.

“Sweetheart,” she said one night as they worked on a puzzle together, “how are you feeling about everything? About your dad being in Daura?”

Hudayfah shrugged but didn’t meet her gaze. “I’m okay, Mommy. I just hope he’s careful. What if the bad people hurt him again?”

The vulnerability in his voice tugged at her heart. “Your dad is very brave, Hudayfah. And he’s doing everything he can to make sure we’re all safe too. It’s okay to miss him, but remember, he loves you so much.”

Hudayfah nodded slowly, his small hand resting on hers. “I just want him to come home soon.”

In these tender moments, Kulthum found a delicate balance—comforting her children while grappling with her own uncertainties. She knew the days ahead would be challenging, but her resolve strengthened with every conversation, every hug, and every step forward.

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In Daura, the winds of change swept through the palace. Abdullah’s relentless efforts to stabilize the kingdom had begun to bear fruit. Hanifah’s loyalists were being systematically rooted out, their influence waning with each decisive move.

Othman and Mustapha had worked tirelessly alongside Abdullah, ensuring the kingdom’s security while rebuilding the people’s trust.

The council chamber buzzed with anticipation as Abdullah prepared to deliver a critical address. The councilors, now visibly united under his leadership, awaited his vision for Daura’s future.

Abdullah stepped forward, his presence commanding yet humble. “Honored councilors, esteemed citizens of Daura, today marks a turning point for our kingdom. The shadows of division that threatened us have begun to dissipate. But our work is far from over.”

He paused, his gaze sweeping the room. “Together, we must lay the foundation for a united Daura—one where justice, equity, and prosperity guide us forward. The trials we’ve faced have tested our resolve, but they have also reminded us of our strength.”

The room erupted into applause as his words resonated with the council and beyond. Othman exchanged a glance with Mustapha, a silent acknowledgment of the hard-earned progress.

Later that evening, Abdullah met with Othman in the private chambers.

“Othman,” he began, “your loyalty and wisdom have been invaluable in these times. But I know the strain this has placed on you. You’ve borne the weight of accusations and doubt, yet you’ve stood firm. For that, I am grateful.”

Othman smiled faintly. “You’re my brother, Abdullah. My duty to you and to Daura is unwavering. But I’ll admit, it feels good to see the tide turning in our favor.”