Shattered illusions

20: Back to where it all began

Abuja, Nigeria.

Aamir sighed as the plane touched down at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. He disembarked and inhaled the fresh air, taking in the bittersweet atmosphere of the airport. Some travelers were ecstatic, either departing or returning to their homeland, while others were tearfully bidding farewell to loved ones. Aamir, however, felt neither joy nor sorrow; his expression was neutral. He wore a blue jean, black hoodie, face cap, and nose mask, just so he doesn't want to gain attention from people, and after a moment's pause, he grabbed his suitcase and headed to the waiting area.

He pulled out his phone and dialed one of the family's chauffeurs, who had been instructed to pick him up. The chauffeur answered, saying he was just a few minutes away. Aamir acknowledged and busied himself scrolling through his phone as he waited.

A few minutes later, the chauffeur spotted Aamir amidst the crowd and approached him with a warm welcome. Aamir smiled, grabbed his suitcase, and told the chauffeur they should leave, eager to shower and change. The chauffeur nodded and followed as they made their way to the car.

Once inside, Aamir shed his hoodie, revealing his jersey, as the Nigerian heat enveloped him. As they navigated the bustling streets of Abuja, en route to Guzape, Aamir's smile returned, nostalgic for the familiar roads and the vibrant energy of Nigeria. The chauffeur filled the car with lively chatter, updating Aamir on the changes that had taken place during his absence. Aamir responded with smiles and nods.

Before long, they pulled up to the grand gates of the Barkindo residence, and Aamir's smile turned bittersweet. They drove inside and came to a stop in the parking area.

Aamir stepped out of the car, and the chauffeur offered to take his suitcase inside, but Aamir declined. The chauffeur nodded and left. Aamir dragged his suitcase with one hand, holding his hoodie with the other, as he made his way to the entrance door. He pressed the bell, and within a minute, a maid opened the door, bowed, and welcomed him. Aamir nodded, declining her offer to take his suitcase, and smiled behind his mask before dismissing her.

He entered the house, walking down the long hallway and into the opulent main living room. The space was dimly lit, but as the lights flickered on, Aamir's eyes widened. The room was filled with expensive, designer furniture, including plush sofas, armchairs, and a stunning crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling. The walls were adorned with exquisite artwork, adding to the room's grandeur.
Knowing his mom and her extravagant lifestyle and taste she must have change the furnitures after every six months.

Aamir's gaze swept the room, taking in the warm, inviting atmosphere. Suddenly, his twin siblings emerged from nowhere, wrapping him in a tight hug. Aamir's eyes scanned the room, and as he made eye contact with the others, everyone shouted "Welcome back home!" in unison.

Aamir's gaze swept the room once again, and his eyes landed on a massive banner that read "Welcome Back Home" in bold letters. He chuckled, removing his mask, and hurried to his mother's side, embracing her warmly. She reciprocated with equal enthusiasm, welcoming him home in Fulani.

As they parted, Aamir's eyes scanned the room, and he spotted his elder brother, Umar, standing with his wife, Iman. Aamir made his way over, exchanging a hearty, masculine hug with Umar, followed by a firm handshake. Umar muttered a warm welcome, and Aamir responded with a grateful "Thank you, hamma." Iman also extended a warm welcome to her brother-in-law, and Aamir smiled warmly at her.

Just then, Arianna, ever the drama queen, exclaimed, "Okay, enough with the greetings and hugs – you're making me emotional!" The room erupted in laughter, and Aamir collapsed onto the nearest sofa, exhausted. As everyone settled in, Arianna snuggled up close to her elder brother, as was her habit – the two had always been incredibly close.