Shattered illusions

13: Serenity

Manchester, England.

Muhammad Arif woke up in his lavish hotel suite, surrounded by opulent furnishings and cutting-edge technology. The spacious room was adorned with rich, velvety drapes, and the plush carpet felt like silk beneath his feet. A stunning cityscape unfolded outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm glow over the room.

As he emerged from the sumptuous bedroom, Arif made his way to the marble-clad bathroom, where he indulged in a refreshing bath, complete with scented oils, His movements were deliberate and calculated, reflecting his disciplined and focused personality.

Following his bath, Arif wrapped himself in a plush robe and made his way to the living area, where a delectable breakfast spread awaited him. The hotel's impeccable service had arranged for a mouth-watering feast, complete with freshly brewed coffee, succulent pastries, and an assortment of exotic fruits.

As he savored his breakfast, Arif dressed in a tailored black two-piece slacks, perfectly accentuating his lean physique. With thirty minutes to spare before his departure, he settled into the plush sofa and dialed his mother's number.

"Good morning ummi," he said, his deep voice warm and respectful.

"How was your night and baba's"?

"Good morning Arif ," Hajiya Fatima replied, her voice filled with affection.

"Good, Alhamdulillah."

"When do you leave?"

"My flight departs soon," Arif replied. "Please inform Baba, and give him my greetings."

"Okay, in sha Allah," his mother responded. "I'll let him know. Have a safe flight, and keep me updated when you land."

As they chatted, Arif learned about his mother's plans for the day – a girls' day out with Hooriya, Hajiya Amina, and Hanan. "You all have fun," he said, smiling to himself as he imagined the lively gathering.

With a final "in sha Allah," Arif ended the call, feeling grateful for the loving relationship he shared with his family. He took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the journey ahead, and began making his way to the airport.

As Arif ended the call with his mother, he glanced at his watch, realizing he had a few minutes to spare before his flight departed. With a swift motion, he gathered his belongings and checked out of the hotel. His chauffeur, waiting patiently outside, greeted him with a nod.

Arif slid into the luxurious car, his thoughts momentarily drifting elsewhere. The conversation with his mother had stirred something within him, but he quickly suppressed the emotions. As a master of his feelings, he never allowed them to surface.

The drive to the airport was brief, and soon Arif was checking in and navigating security with ease. As he boarded the plane, he was greeted by the attentive flight attendants and escorted to the VIP lounge.

Once settled, Arif allowed himself a brief respite from his disciplined demeanor. He pulled out his iPad and began designing, losing himself in the creative process. The VIP lounge's luxurious ambiance and cutting-edge technology made it easy for him to focus......

As the plane soared into the skies, Arif felt a sense of routine wash over him. returning to his structured life in Abuja. Yet.—a single thought lingered in his mind, refusing to be dismissed.....

                           ———-

Hanan and Hooriya slowly emerged from their slumber, nestled in the cozy confines of Hanan's apartment. The room was bathed in a chilled, serene ambiance, the curtains drawn, filtering the morning light. The air was crisp, and the silence was a welcome respite from the chaos of the previous days.