Over and Over

Raven

KANO,
NIGERIA.

NARRATORS POV

The hospital room buzzed with excitement as family members poured in, their voices mixing in a joyful chaos.

And then

"Where are my great-grandbabies?!"

Everyone turned as Ummu, Hakeem's grandmother, stormed into the room, her cane tapping against the floor with authority.

She was small in stature but had the presence of a queen, her sharp eyes scanning the room.

Hakeem grinned, standing up. "Ummu, you made it."

"Of course I made it! I've been waiting for these babies before you two even married!" She shot Layla a pointed look. "Finally you listened to me, Layla."

Layla, exhausted but amused, chuckled. "I'm glad we could make you happy, Ummu."

"Happy?" Ummu scoffed, but her eyes were warm as she approached the newborns. "Happy doesn't begin to describe it."

She looked down at them, her expression softening. "Mashallah," she whispered, touching their tiny hands. "Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful."

"You've given our family a blessing, my daughter."

Layla smiled softly. "Thank you, Ammi."

Hakeem, standing by the window, looked at the people who had shaped his life his grandmother, his parents, his in-laws before his gaze finally landed on Layla.

She had given him everything.

And now, their family was complete.

JORDAN

The sun set beautifully over Amman as their family gathered in a grand, lantern-lit courtyard for the Aqeeqah ceremony.

Layla, now rested and glowing, sat beside Hakeem on a large cushion, dressed in an elegant embroidered jalabiya.

The King and Layla's father sat together, engaged in deep conversation, while Ummu took command of the gathering, making sure everything was done properly.

Finally, the names were announced.

Zayd Hakeem El-Baaz and Ziyad Hakeem El-Baaz

A name from them A perfect blend of their love.

The crowd erupted in cheers, and Hakeem pulled Layla close. "Zayd and Ziyad," he murmured, as if testing the names on his tongue.

Layla smiled. "Strong names."

"Just like their parents," he whispered, pressing a kiss to her temple.

The night continued with laughter, music, and tradition, family members taking turns holding the babies, offering prayers, and showering them with love.

At one point, Layla sat back, watching the people she loved, feeling an overwhelming sense of peace.

Their journey had been filled with storms, heartbreak, and unexpected twists.

But in the end

They had found their way to happiness.

To love.

And as Hakeem took her hand in his, whispering something only she could hear

Layla smiled.

Because no matter what the future held

They would always be together .

Over and Over.