And we’re back, sorry for the inconvenience, enjoy.😉




   *Nuriya*

My heart is broken, I feel so alone, well maybe because I am actually alone. I sighed as I walked down the beautiful city of Kano State, it was more beautiful than what I heard growing up, I just hope that there's a new and better life waiting for me here.
It was midday, and I wore a blue old Abaya of mine, a black veil on my head, and I had a bag pack, and yeah, I lost my luggages on my way here and it wasn't much of an option for me to go back.
I left my village cause there was nothing there for me, I have no friends or family, a tear rolled down my cheeks as I thought about it. Moments later, a car from nowhere hit me really hard, I fell down and everything went black, all I could hear was a man's soft and shaky voice.

                        *Jafar*

I was on the phone with my crazy, nagging wife Maria, she has been bugging me for some stupid sports car when she has so many to choose from at home, she's really annoying. We were best friends before we finally tied the knot, everything was going well until she started being insecure, it almost ruined our relationship over the years but we're still together, and don't think that it's because of the kids cause we have none, maybe because deep down we still love each other... I think.
I just ran over someone with my car, my heart is pounding nonstop, something like this has never happened to me before, I rushed to the person only to see a really beautiful woman on the floor (Masha Allah) , I checked her pulse and she was still alive, Immediately I rushed her to the hospital before the popular Kano State crowd gathered.

At the hospital...

It has been two days and she hasn't regained consciousness yet, I wasn't worried at all cause the doctor assured me that she'll be fine, it is one of the best hospital in town. I didn't let Maria know about what happened cause we all know how that will turn out, i sighed and shook my head thinking about it. I was sitting beside the patient on a chair, and I brought some food and fruits for her, (I really hope she likes them), she had a bruise on her hand and a little bandage placed on her forehead. I was on my phone chatting when I heard a beautiful voice " who are you?" I turned to her and our eyes met, she was really beautiful( may God forgive me for staring too much), I abruptly stood up in my Kaftan attire, and replied "Hi! " trying to be as polite as ever

Nuriya: "hello" ( looking shy) in her hospital gown

Jafar: "I'm so sorry about what happened, I wasn't looking, it was all my fault" I said, hoping my face was remorseful enough, she replied with a light smile while shaking her head

Nuriya: it's OK, I actually thought that it was a hit and run case, because I woke up last night and didn't meet anyone apart from the doctor and nurses"

Jafar: "I must have left by then that's why. But the doctor didn't tell me that you were awake" (that man! ) I thought to myself, I'm going to give him a beating for not telling me and he did it intentionally as he is my friend. Just then he walked in smiling, he is in his early thirties, and so am I.

                    *Nuriya*

Masha Allah! This man is really handsome, I said to myself, I actually thought that he ran away after the accident, but it's nice to know that he stayed.
The thought about the fact that i have nowhere to go crossed my mind and I became sad again, just then the doctor arrived, he was quite handsome too.

Dr. Nasir: "Asalam, And how is our beautiful patient doing today?" with a smile on his face, I faked a smile and replied "I'm good" I turned to see the other man glaring at the doctor

Jafar: "why didn't you tell me she was awake?" by now the doctor was smirking at him

Dr. Nasir: "sorry I thought i told you " still smirking "anyways, she can be discharged tomorrow, she is recovering pretty fast" At first I was happy about the news, and then it dawned on me that I have nowhere to go.

Jafar: "that's good to know doctor, please let's talk in your office" he said walking pass him to the door, and the doctor followed him immediately "I'll be right back, and please eat something " he said to me with a smile on his face before he left. I opened the basket and saw varieties of fruits and my eyes drifted to the jollof rice which is my favorite, I dugged in immediately and it tasted so good " when last have I eaten something this good?" I thought to myself and sighed.

                   *Nasir *

Dr. Nasir's office...

Jafar: "Alright Nasir, what game are you trying to play here?" my old friend said raising an eyebrow, i rolled my eyes and replied

Nasir: " can we at least sit dow.." he cut me off

Jafar : "I don't want to sit!" he said angrily "I don't know what your plan towards her is but I want you to stop it right now! Com'n man you don't even know her! "

Nasir: "wait, the last time I checked you are married, so why are you getting all worked up? You don't know her either, and I don't understand why I can't make a move"

Jafar: "she's barely recovering, so can you please let her be for now?"

Nasir: "Alright fine! I can do that, but why do you care so much?" I asked folding my arms, he was lost of words for a moment...

Jafar: "why wouldn't I? I mean, she's here because of me, so she's my responsibility!" he said it with so much confidence, I know my friend, he rarely gets attached to ladies and I know he loves his wife dearly, but I don't quite understand him right now, what's going on?

                      *Maria*

I was sitting on the sofa in the living room, It was passed 11 o'clock, I was on my phone when the door opens and my dear husband walked in, he looked as handsome as ever but there was something quite different today, he had this smile on his face which was unusual, he walked towards me and he could tell that I already suspected him, I stood up

Jafar: "Salamu alaikum dear" he was smiling too much which annoyed me that I didn't answer his greetings. He placed his hands on my lower back and pulled me close to him, he wanted to kiss me and just then I pushed him so hard, he fell on the sofa looking surprised but I didn't care

Maria: "And where the hell are you coming from? Do you know how worried I was?" I said with my hands on my waist, I knew I shouldn't have done that but I was too proud to apologise, he stood up

Jafar: "you are the most crazy woman I've ever met! I don't even know what to tell you right now" he walked pass me and went upstairs, but I wasn't far behind him demanding to know where he was coming from.

After an hour of quarrelling, we both laid down on the bed, our backs facing each other, I was used to the constant fights that I don't let it get to me anymore. I love my husband so much, cause he is the best, he gives me everything I ever wanted. We were best friends back in the university, I love the fact that even with all the girls back then, he still chose me.
Because of that I got used to not losing to anyone especially ladies, so much that even now I have so much confidence that no matter what happens, he will never leave me... That is how much I know my husband.

                    **********

2                  


*Nuriya*

I am feeling really anxious at the moment, I'm currently sitting on the passenger's sit in Jafar's car, I didn't have time to admire the interior of the luxurious car cause I had lied to him that I lived just around the corner, I just hope that I'm able to pull this one off.
He has done enough for me that I didn't want to be a burden to him anymore, I really love the orange dress he got me, it suits my skin tone so well 'his wife is really lucky' I thought to myself, I wonder if he's married? Anyways I couldn't bring myself to ask him that.

Nuriya: "you can drop me off here Sir" he looked at me for a sec, and then he stopped in front of the children's park

Jafar: "Here? Why?" looking confused

Nuriya: "I don't want to go home right now, so I'll just hang out here for a while" I said reassuring him with a smile, he sighed and agreed 'that was easy' .
He dropped me off and soon he was on his way, I sat on a bench and thought about how my life would turn out from now on. At the park, some children were playing, with their mothers keeping a close eye on them, there were also some girls laughing at something, spending quality time with each other, some were with their spouses, while I was just here thinking of a roof over my head.
I placed my head in my hands on my laps and cried, I cried so hard that I started to feel sick. And just then a really good cologne that I'm getting used to hit me, and at that moment I realised who it was, I stood up abruptly to a familiar handsome face.

Jafar: "Now that you are done lying, can you be honest with me now?" I felt shame "just so you know, you're a really bad liar" he said that while sitting down, I joined him slowly

Jafar: "you don't have anywhere to go right?" he was looking at me intensely, I knew I couldn't lie to him because it's obvious he's smart and won't fall for anything I say that easily
"I knew you were lying because no one called or even came to visit you in the hospital, which was really weird and your phone has no single contact which is also weird, so explain to me"

Nuriya : "I'm sorry about that, I just don't want to be a burden t..." he cut me off

Jafar: "Just tell me what happened and no more lies, please"

Nuriya: "Okey, the truth is I'm not from here, I just arrived the day the accident happened." I said without looking at him "I have no one, no friends or family, I'm just here to start a new life" I faked a smile, looking at him

Jafar: "I'm sorry to hear about that, but where are your parents?"

Nuriya: "I grew up without knowing who they were, my guardian told me that my mother left with another man to this very city, trust me I'm not here to look for her, I hardly think about her to be honest." I said with all honesty, she had no right to abandon me but she did, I just pray she's doing okay wherever she is, right now I'm only worried about myself. I heard him sighed, I could tell he pittied me but I didn't want that, I don't want anyone's pity

Jafar: "but what happened to your guardian?"

Nuriya: "she brought lots of men home, which made it uncomfortable, especially when they started throwing glances at me. She got tired of it, so she threw me out" I said shrugging like I didn't care, while deep down my heart was about to split.
She took care of me ever since I could remember, why did she have to do that, I turned to look at him to see him lost in his thoughts.

Jafar: " I feel so lost of words, I'm sorry you had to go through all of that" he said while getting up "let's go" I raised an eyebrow at him, standing up, I replied

Nuriya : "where are we goi.."

Jafar: "let's just go" he said walking towards his car to open the door for me, I sighed and entered the car, it's not like I have anywhere else to go.

                 **********
       
I would be lying if I wasn't in awe right now, we arrived at an estate to this really beautiful flat, it has four rooms, a big beautiful living room, the interior was amazing. The house also has a garage with a brand new car parked there, with flowers beautifully decorated close to the fences. It made me wonder how rich he is, because he told me that this place belongs to me alone from now on, meaning he has his own house. It was a relief knowing that we won't be living together, I looked at him with uncertainty.

Jafar: "What?" he asked, "you are staying here and that's final! " is he always this commanding? I looked away and smiled,

Nuriya: "I don't think I can ever repay you for this, thank you so much for everything" I said sincerely "You are a blessing in my life so much that I'm happy that accident happened"

Jafar: "shh! Hey! It's nothing, I'm just glad I can help" he said with a genuine smile, "I sent some money to your account, try to explore the city, and get some clothes, can you drive?"
I simply nodded my head innocently, why is he so kind to me?

Nuriya: "thanks a lot, but how did you know my account number? " I asked, somewhat confused

Jafar: "I have my ways" he winked at me, "anyways, I'm happy you can drive... "
He was cut off by the ringing of his phone, he went close to the dining area to receive the call, I could tell he wasn't happy

Jafar :" okay fine, I'm on my way home" he hung up and came back to me a little disappointed "I have to go Nuriya, it's urgent"

Nuriya: "No it's okay, I'll just use the opportunity to settle in" reassuring him with a smile, he smiled back

Jafar: "alright then, I'll call you"

Nuriya: " Okey" still smiling, I escorted him outside, the gate man opened the gate and then he left in his really cool spots car. I checked my phone to see that he sent a million Naira to my account, my eyes widen.
I feel so lucky and blessed, I don't know what I have done to deserve everything I have now but, I'm so grateful, thank you so much ya Allah.
                  
                   **********

                      *Maria*

I'm so pissed at this creature kneeling in front of me, she really have guts to come back here after stealing from us and ran away, what nerve! She was wearing a short hijab I gave her and a nice Ankara gown underneath. She looks a lot younger than her age and beautiful too, as much as I hate to admit it

Yusrah: " I'm so sorry ma'am, I promise this won't happen again, I don't have anywhere else to go" the 49 year old  sobbed even harder, she has no idea that it has no effect on me.

Maria: "Inna Yusra, you should know that you are only wasting your time. I don't care what your excuse is, just get out of my house!" I yelled, making her flinch

Jafar: "Enough Maria!" Jafar walked in and helped her up, what is his problem now? "Are you OK Inna?" I rolled my eyes at his kindness

Maria: "Jafar jokes aside, she can't stay!"

Jafar: "Says who? This is also my house sweetie" he stated clearly

Maria : "Sure it's also your house but I'm the lady of this house, you are barely at home anyways, so why should I have to put up with this old..."

Jafar: "Maria!"

Maria: "What? Jafar! What?" I yelled back and sat on the couch folding my hands

Yusra: "Sir, I promise you that I didn't steal from you, I was set up, I couldn't ever do that to you, I'm sorry" she said joining her hands together, what a liar

Jafar: "You don't need to apologise Inna, just go to your room and have some rest. I know you couldn't do such a thing"
She thanked us both and went to her old room, at this point I was glaring at my husband but he didn't seem to care, he just walked pass me and went upstairs (I hate that man!).

                   **********

3              



  *Maria*

We all laughed at Hafsat's clueless, old husband, you can guess why she married him. I'm in a restaurant with my friends Sharifa and Hafsat, we all wore very expensive Abayas but as always, mine was more expensive, I felt like a princess in my peach gown.

Sharifa: "and what did he say the next morning?"

Maria: " yeah, tell us" I said while sipping my glass of juice, she shrugged

Hafsat: "I told him that our daughter's school fees has been doubled, so he had no choice but to let it slide" with a smirk on her face

Maria: "bad girl!"

Hafsat: "I know, right? "

Sharifa: " and what if he finds out it was a lie?"

Hafsat: "And how will he? He's too busy with work, and  always travelling to notice anything happening around him" she sipped from her glass "hey where's the food anyways?"

Maria: "That's true! What's taking so long?" I said while scrolling through my iPhone "And what will your co-wives think about you spending too much money on your children's fees?"

Hafsat: "Everyone is currently minding their own business, ever since the last fight. I'm so happy that I have my own place now" she smiled at the thought

Sharifa: " So what are you going to do about that Inna or whatever you call her?" I sighed

Maria: " Jafar is driving me crazy to be honest, he does what he wants without thinking of the outcome "

Hafsat: " And when do you plan on settling down madam?" her question pointing to Sharifa, who only rolled her eyes

Maria: " that's true, you will be turning thirty soon" the food arrived at that moment and the male waiter looked at her in  shock that she wasn't married yet

Sharifa: "Amebo, can you go back to your work?" she barked making Hafsat and I to laugh hard, she glared at us

Hafsat: "seriously you should settle down, just look at me I have two girls already" then she turned to me "and you, start making babies already , it has been 5 years!"

Maria: "we'll do that when the time comes, besides I'm not ready to lose my shape as it is" I told them while admiring my perfect figure 8.

Hafsat: " And what's with those extra take aways?"

Maria: " For my hubby of course! I don't want to stress myself when I go back home" I can be quite lazy.

                   *Sharifa*

There they go with that marriage talk again, I mean it's not my fault I haven't gotten married yet. I love the idea of a family, but I can't do anything than to wait for the right time. I hate them for making me feel bad every time we hang out.

Shariafa: "you guys didn't have to make it so obvious that I'm not married, why do you always do that?"

Maria: "Hey! We were just joking ok, don't take it so serio...

Sharifa: " at least you're married! If it's that easy why don't you let me marry your husband so that we can become co-wiv...

Maria: "Over my dead body Sharifa! And besides my baby like his women fair and sexy too!" she said winking at me. There's no denying that Maria is beautiful, and that's why Jafar is still with her all these years even with that attitude of her's. "we'll see about tha..."

Maria: "Sure!" she said with so much confidence (that pompous bitch)

Sharifa: "I think I'll take my leave now" I stood up and left, not minding Hafsat begging me to come back, because later on I heard them both giggle.

I had once tried to get Jafar's attention but it didn't work, not even because of the love he has for his wife, but because he doesn't get attracted to ladies that easily, and also because he follows our religion wholeheartedly, with Maria it was natural.

I sat in the taxi and thought about how she had wronged her husband without him even knowing. If only he knew how she faked having miscarriages three times when she haven't gotten pregnant once in her life, yes, she is that cruel.
Anyways I think I know someone that do get attracted to ladies easily, hmmm... I'll try my luck somewhere else now, I thought, with a smirk on my face.

                 *Nuriya*

It's almost a week that I have been living in this house, I love everything about this place. Jafar visited me lots of time during the week and we had some good talk, I found out that he was really fun to talk to that I didn't want the conversations to end.

He sells cars, and he also own a large supermarket here in Kano State and other states as well. The Gate man and I even went to his supermarket yesterday to get some groceries and some clothes. Right now, I'm in the kitchen cooking for my guests, and by guests I mean, Jafar and Dr. Nasir, they're busy watching a match in the living room, so I decided to make something for them. Jafar has done so well for himself, I'm so proud of him.

"Goal!" they shouted like teenagers, they were both putting on casual clothes today looking handsome. I laughed as I came to the dining area and set the table for the three of us.

Nasir: "hey! What smells so good?" he asked popping his head to the direction of the dining area which was located beside the living room. He stood up and so did Jafar who had a blank expression on his face.

Nuriya: "um, I made lunch, I'm sure you guys are hungry" I said while fiddling with my fingers

Nasir: "lunch sounds nice" he made his way and sat down on a chair, I stood beside him "Wow! Vegetable soup and semolina! Why are you just standing there? Let's eat!" He told Jafar, who took slow steps to the table like he's not sure of something. What is the matter with him?

Nasir: "this looks and smells good but taste even better !" he said after his first bite of the chicken on his plate

Nuriya: "thank you"

Nasir: "I didn't know that you can cook"

Nuriya: "well,  I try my best" I said while smiling, Jafar sat down and dished out his, and started eating

Jafar: "This is good Nuriya" that made me blush, I like the way he says my name but mostly I'm happy he likes the food. I smiled as I gulped down my juice and continued eating, the doctor was almost done with his as of now.

                      *********

They were about to leave, Jafar already got into his car, but not before thanking me for the food and promised to send me more money for the food and stress I had to go through, although I had insisted that I still have money and that he didn't have to worry but we all know how stubborn that man can be. I just don't know where he got the idea that what I did was stressful, well I guess everyone has their own perspectives on things.

Nasir: "Nurie, you just have to help me with this, I'm so tired of restaurants food"

Nuriya: "it's cool, I can handle it, no worries"

Nasir: "That's great! I'll send some money to your account, I want both soups and stews that will last for a week or two at least"

Nuriya: "Alright, I got it! But no need to pay me I'll do it for free!" I promised him

Nasir: " Awesome! You are the bes..."

Jafar: "No, you can't do that mister! If you want food, you have to pay, so pay up!" The Dr. rolled his eyes, making me to laugh so hard. I turned to look at Jafar only for him to divert his gaze from me to somewhere else, he cleared his throat "let's go, so she can have some rest"

Nasir: "here you go" he took my hand and put a bundle of cash on it "that's 100k! Please make it tasty, I'll come get it by Friday that's two days from..."

Jafar: "Don't worry, I'll bring it to your house, you don't need to come all the way here" he grabbed his friend's hand that was holding mine and dragged him to the car

Nasir: "come on man! take it easy will you! " I laughed at these two friends, in no time they were gone. The gate man came to where I was standing

Gate man: "Ma'am! did you tell him about the scene at his Supermarket?

Nuriya: " No! and neither should you! " he nodded "please? I don't want to bother him about little matters"

Gate man: "I understand ma'am" he went to his duty post, Jafar has done a lot for me, I cannot be selfish and make him worry about me unnecessarily. I received a message from my phone to see an alert of another two million, I sighed.

                    ***********

4


                      *Maria*

Maria: "Imagine the nerve of that woman!" I told Hafsat, I came to visit her and all she could serve me was snacks she ordered a while ago, what a lazy ass

Hafsat: "didn't she know that your husband owns the place?" she sipped from her glass

Maria: "No, I didn't feel the need to let her know " I said crossing my hands, we were in her sitting room. The place looked spotlessly clean, and the interior was done nicely, but her home was no match for mine, I own a mansion!

Hafsat: "Anyways you were at fault" she said and shrugged "you shouldn't have slapped her, she didn't see you coming for God's sake"

Maria: "And so what? Everyone knows they ought to make way for me when I'm coming through, it's not my fault she was clueless"

Hafsat: "Hmm. I know you so well my friend, this only mean that, that lady was pretty, for you to have reacted that way" I rolled my eyes at what she said, she was pretty, and she looked somehow familiar like I've seen that face somewhere before. If there was one thing it is the fact that the face had made me angry and that's why I slapped her.

Maria: "So why did you want to see me?"

Hafsat: "because I miss you of course"

Maria: "oh give me a break! I know you have something to say, so tell me" she cleared her throat

Hafsat: "Okey, why didn't you tell me you guys have a guest in town? Or did you finally sell that guest house at the estate?" at this moment I dropped my glass that I was about to drink from, I cleared my throat

Maria: "What did you just say?" I asked because I couldn't believe my ears.

Hafsat: "you know how badly I liked that flat, why didn't you tell me it was up for sale? I would've bought it no matter the cos..

Maria: " Can you tell me you're joking right now? "I was pissed already

Hafsat: " Wait, you didn't know? A young lady has been in that place for about a week now, how could you not know?" I stood up and picked my designer's bag, Hafsat covered her lips with her hand " oh my! I shouldn't have said anything, I didn't know you were unaware about it"

Maria: "good day!" I walked pass her to the door, and heard her saying 'wait for me' at the back, I rushed to my car and soon we were on our way to the flat.

                    *********

Soon we were outside the flat, and I horned like hell, the familiar Gate man opened the gate as soon as he saw me the colour on his face changed. Ya Allah! He is soo fired, I left the car outside and went inside Hafsat not far behind me, I met Nasir's car inside (that double crossing jerk!)

Hafsat: "isn't this Nasir's car? Your husband's friend? Oh my gosh! Could it be that Jafar got a second wife?" I didn't want to say anything because I knew she was enjoying all of this, I always acted like my home was perfect around my friends , it's so heartbreaking that this is happening before her eyes, I was about to knock on the door when Nasir came out

Nasir: "Hasbuna- Allah..." he wanted to go inside but stopped and turned to me again

Maria: "Seriously? Nasir!" I roared, what could I expect? He is my husband's best friend.
Just then a lady came out, she wore a simple dark blue gown and a white veil on her head (I also have the kind at home)
"wait! It's you?" she looked so surprised and scared but I could care less how she feels, I slapped her, she fell on the ground.

Nasir: "That's enough Maria!" he pulled me away from her, she held her face and continued crying

Maria: "How dare you? How dare you come close to my husband, you LovePeddler!" her eyes widened in surprise, "So you didn't know that Jafar is married?" I scoffed "you must be so stupid to think that a successful and handsome man like my husband would be single" I glared at her, I wanted to throw things at her "let me go you jerk!"

Nasir: "Alright I will lioness, please just calm down" he let me go, and she got on her feet

Maria: "how can you tell me to calm down? Why are men so wicked?" he scratched his head to my question, I let a tear out

                    *Nuriya*

Dumbfounded, that was what I felt at the moment, he is married? Why didn't he tell me? It's not like he owes me an explanation but still, how could he leave that important part out. She is the same woman that hit me at the supermarket the other day, and now she turned out to be Jafar's wife. Wow! It felt weird to say that, I don't know why I felt so bad, what was I expecting? She was right! He couldn't be single being that he is a successful business man and as our culture and religion demanded, he ought to be married.

Just then the gate opened and Jafar came inside, he looked so worried maybe because he knew how crazy his wife can be. Soon he was standing beside his wife, who was standing opposite me and Doctor, her friend was by her left and the gate man stood in front of his room, our eyes met, but I immediately looked away

Maria: "get away from me!" she yelled at her husband, hitting him on his chest "how could you, how could you do this to me? You are such a liar" he finally grab her hands

Jafar : "Enough Maria! Try to listen to me at least, please!" she calmed down a bit "its not what you think okay? I can never do such a thing to you, I'm only helping out a friend"

Maria : "Friend? " she scoffed "friend! Are you being serious right now? Do you expect me to believe that?" she asked, not buying his explanation

Jafar : "It's the truth, I swear!" he said honestly. I just watched them go on and on at eachother, I got tired of it and went inside the house, shutting the door behind me, I heard her yelliing behind me but I didn't care. I went in my room, on the bed and sobbed really hard, why? I had no idea...

                       * Jafar *

I was starting to have a headache trying to talk to my wife, why does she have to be so difficult? I got tired of trying to explain myself when Nuriya went inside, I could tell she was so upset that I wondered what Maria said to her?

Maria: "And where is she going? Tell your mistress to get the hell out of my house!" Hafsat giggled, that was when I noticed her presence, she tried composing herself

Hafsat: "uhm! I'll take my leave now, later babe!" she left like her life depends on it.

Maria: "Just look! Look at the shame you've caused me, you have ruined all that I have worked so hard to maintain!" she yelled putting a hand on her face.

Nasir : "Enough Maria, don't forget that Jafar is still your husband" my friend finally decided to help me

Maria: "How dare you talk to me Nasir, you have some nerve getting involved in all of this, I thought you were my friend" she said, Nasir was taken aback

Nasir: "I am both your friends, and there is no way that I will ever support him to do something bad"

Maria: " Is it?" she said like in surprise, "being that getting married to two wives is allowed in our religion right?" she said, not moving her eyes from him "What do you take me for? A fool?"

Jafar: "you know that I wouldn't do that to you..."

Maria: "don't think that I will ever let you take my husband away from me, it will never happen Nasir, and you know me, you know what I am capable of"
It felt nice to hear her refer to me as her husband today, it never seemed like she cared about me.

Jafar: " let's go home please, so that we can talk about this" she glared at me, and walked pass me towards the gate, " take care of things here Nas" he nodded

I followed her, Soon she was in her sports car and then she drove off, with me not far behind her. I spent the rest of the day at home begging and persuading her until she finally gave a listening ear. She knows me, she knows that I don't do things like that, so I don't quite understand why she reacted that way...

                   
                    **********

5



*Maria*

I woke up to a delicious aroma of omelets and hot chocolate (my favourite!), I saw Jafar holding a tray with a smile on his face. He wore blue sweat pants and black t-shirt, looking so casual, he dropped it on the bed, there was bread, omelets, hot chocolate and a glass of water.

Jafar : "good morning babe!" he kissed my cheek, what is up with him this morning? I just raised an eyebrow at him "what?" he chuckled

Maria: "Ok why are you being so weird this morning?" I sipped my hot chocolate and he drank my water and sat on the bed, this man! He shrugged,

Jafar: "I haven't felt this happy in a long time Maria, and I mean it" I could tell the sincerity in his voice, I felt bad a little knowing that I have somehow been neglecting my husband. Yes, we made love last night after almost a month which reminded me of something

Maria: "I'll be right back baby" I rushed to the bathroom and locked the door.
I walked towards the toilet seat and stretched my hand at the back of it to pick up my pill, I took one from it and swallowed it, I rested my head on the wall and let a sigh of relief.

* Nuriya *

Nasir: "Salamu alaikum!" with a smile on his face "I brought food, your favorite" I tried to smile, to be honest I was expecting someone else, today makes it a week that I've been here and he hasn't come to see me since yesterday's incident.

Nuriya: "thanks Doctor" I opened the door wider and he came inside, I wore a big grey shirt and a white trouser with a black veil on my head. He dressed casual today and looked very handsome

Nasir: "you're welcome" he walked towards the dining table and started setting the table "let's eat, I'm hungry"

Nuriya: "I'm not that hungry now doctor" I was full for some reason

Nasir: "I let you off the hook yesterday but not today, now sit down!" he playfully commanded while pointing at a chair, I chuckled and sat

Nuriya: "Someone's being bossy"

Nasir: "that's what you get for being stubborn" he served me fried rice and chicken, one of my favourite "so how are you doing?" I looked at him, his face showed so much love and care that it made me hope its not what I'm thinking, I just shrugged

Nuriya: "I... I... I just wish he told me, you know?" I felt out of words, "I mean, why didn't he say anything? It's not like he owes me anything but still..."

Nasir: "he does owe you an explanation, he shouldn't have kept it away from you. And I didn't know that you weren't aware of it, she's just someone I don't like to talk about"

Nuriya: "hmm" I sighed, "and why is tha..."

Nasir: "She's bad news! annoying, proud, aggressive and very intimidating!" he shook his head at the thought of it

Nuriya: "but she's very pretty though"

Nasir: "no doubt about that" he ate from his plate "all I want to say is that I know he didn't mean to upset you, and I'm sure he has a valid reason for not telling you about his wife"

Nuriya: "Sure he does" I started eating, it was delicious and I ate even more, I didn't know that I was this hungry.

* Maria *

Sharifa: " Maria, " I was busy typing away on my phone, sitting at the VIP area in my favourite restaurant, having a coffee milkshake. I heard my name and raised my head up to see a happy Sharifa

Maria: " Hii" I stood up and we hugged each other, she then sat opposite me "you don't look bad!" She was wearing quite expensive Atamfa (hausa native clothes) which wasn't very common

Sharifa: "Oh thank you dear" she replied like it was no big deal to her, 'where in the world did she get the money from? She works in a bank, she doesn't own the bank' , I rolled my eyes at the thought

Maria: "didn't you see my missed calls?" I have been trying to reach her for days now

Sharifa: " sorry babe, I have been very busy with my fiance at the time but i sent you a text, didn't you get it?"

Maria: "No!" I drank my milkshake, it's obvious she was lying. 'Wait fiance?' " what do you mean by fiance? You don't even have a boyfriend!" I stated clearly, I know I can be very mean, but I'm just stating the facts, SHE HAS NO BOYFRIEND.

Sharifa: "well, newsflash! Now, I do! And we are getting married pretty soon." She picked up her phone, is that an IPhone 13? I was shocked but I tried to hide it, "babe I'm in the place, you're outside right?... Ok I'll be there soon" She stood up " we'll talk later darling"
She had a satisfactory smile on her face, and soon she left, I abruptly picked up my phone

Maria: "guess who I saw today, Hafsat"

* Nasir *

If there is one thing, it is the reality that I haven't seen any lady as pretty as Nuriya. She is calm, very nice, intelligent, she can cook, she smells nice, she's everything... Everything I want in a woman, I knew that deep down I was in love with her but I didn't want to believe that at all.

Nuriya: "Cheater! Oh my God you cheated again, or is something wrong with my control device?" she asked looking at her device weirdly, making her look kinda cute! She caught me staring at her and I quickly removed my gaze, I cleared my throat, it was afternoon already...

Nasir: "uhmm, wanna go again? I promise to go easy on you" I smiled, I could notice that she was a bit uncomfortable

Nuriya: "Nope, let's just watch a movie instead, I'm tired"
We started watching a comedy movie, and we laughed really hard, We both sat on the same Sofa. Few minutes later, the door opened and Jafar came in, he looked really good in his brown kaftan I must admit, he looked kind of surprised at first, then he tried to hide it.

Jafar: "Sorry, the door was open"

Nuriya: "Come in" she stood up abruptly and he went in front of her, I stood up as well

Jafar: "Hey!" he said not taking his eyes off her, I could tell it made her quite uncomfortable, she just stared at the floor

Nuriya: "Hi" she faked a smile

Jafar: "Can we talk? "

Nuriya: "If it's about yesterday, it's cool, I don't want to talk about it "

Jafar: "I'm really sorry about everything, I should have told you about h.."

Nuriya: "then why didn't you?" he was out of words

Jafar : "I'm sorry, I truly am" he was sincere, I decided to give them some space

Nasir: "guys I'll be on my way now" I said, pointing at the door

Jafar: "he finally took a hint" he whispered to himself, I chuckled

Nasir: "you guys iron things out alright?" she looked at me "take care of yourself" I said to her, and then I walked towards the door and shut it behind me

*Jafar *

My friend finally decided to give us some space, he can be so annoying. I felt really bad about what happened, I didn't tell her about Maria because the topic never came up, and somehow when I'm with Nuriya, I forget about my wife, I forget about my problems at home. I know it's ridiculous to say that but that is the truth, but I couldn't tell Nuriya that though, I didn't want to push her away.

Nuriya: "can you still remember when you told me no more secrets? I didn't expect you to keep a huge one from me" her voice shaky, It broke my heart...

Jafar: "Can you find a place in your heart to forgive me? Please?"

Nuriya: "I have no right to hold a grudge against you, because I don't know where I would be now without you. You don't owe me an explanation for sure, but I don't understand why you left that part out" a tear rolled down her perfect cheek, I hated myself for being the cause of those tears

Nuriya: " However, I do know that I don't want to stay here again. I was just waiting for you to come so that I can hand the keys back to you"

Jafar: "What? No way, you can't go anywhere, this is your home, it belongs to yo..."

Nuriya: "No it belongs to your wife, and I don't want to be the cause of your issues, I can't be that selfish.. and I also understand how she must have felt, I'm a woman too"

Jafar: "that is just how she is, she likes drama everyone knows that. And she knows that I can't do such a thing,"

Nuriya: "then why did she react that way?"

Jafar: "because you are pretty, she sees you as a competition" I said without thinking, she looked away blushing, when I said she was pretty 'why did I say that out loud?' (but she is beautiful, no doubt about it) " Sorry I shouldn't have said that"

Nuriya: "No it's OK, I understand. But there's no need for her to feel that way, I'm no match for her"

Jafar: "Trust me you are" I said firmly

Nuriya: " but she is so perfect and I'm.. "

Jafar: " you are perfect too, don't ever think that you are not enough, cause you are more, Nuriya "

Nuriya:" this is the first time someone has ever said something like that to me, thank you" she smiled genuinely, making me smile too

Jafar: "Are we cool?" she nodded "let's go out for some ice-cream" I dragged her out before she declines.

***********

6



                      *Maria*

Maria: "Aisha!" I have been calling the maid for a while now but she is nowhere to be found, I am currently sitting on my comfy couch. I wore a simple black top and blue jeans 'Where is she for God's sake?' I'm just trying to put up with her because Jafar said "no more maids" if I fire her.  I can't remember the number of maids that have worked for me after Inna left six months ago, I guess he is tired of having them come and go, and now I have two of them in my house. Speaking of the devil, she is now standing in front of me

Yusrah: "Good afternoon Hajiya" she greeted me politely, I glared at her

Maria: "What is it? Where is Aisha?"

Yusrah: "She isn't feeling well Hajiya"

Maria: "What happened to her?" I asked bluntly

Yusrah: "Fever"

Maria: "Alright, just give her what she needs"

Yusrah: "OK I will, what can I help you with Hajiya?"

Maria: " Are you deaf? I just asked you to take care of Aisha"

Yusrah: "I'm Sorry" she bowed,

Maria: "Get lost!"

Yusrah: "Yes! Sorry!" She was about to leave then she came back again, ya Allah, this woman!

Maria: "Why do you want to annoy me this afternoon?" she stood in front of me

Yusrah: "I know why you are overreacting this way"

Maria: " What are you saying?"

Yusrah: "It is because of the lady your husband helped" I was so surprised at the moment "I might know a way out Ma'am" I folded my arms and had this serious look on my face

Maria: "So how did you know about her?" she smiled lightly

Yusrah: "You were both loud last night Ma'am"

Maria: "So what is this idea you have?" Still folding my arms, she sat on the same Couch I was sitting

Yusrah: "You shouldn't have let her live in that house up till now"

Maria: "I already promised my husband that I would let her live there as long as she likes"

Yusrah: "What I mean is, you don't know what happens now that she is over there" I unfolded my arms and sit up straight

Maria: "Meaning?"

Yusrah: "It would be better if she stayed here so that you can put an eye on her" I saw some sense in what she said, and I'm kind of impressed at this woman

Maria: "And don't you think letting another woman into my home would mean me making a wrong move?"

Yusrah: " Hajiya, you should always keep your friends close but your enemies closer. How can you know what is happening over there if you are here?"

Maria: "I will give it a thought, Inna"

Yusrah: "You shouldn't waste time on matters like this, just do the needful before it is too late"

Maria: "But my husband cares so much about you, how can you not trust him?" She smiled again

Yusrah: "Even the best dancer on the stage must retire sometime Ma'am" I sighed.

                     * Nuriya *

The gate to my flat opened and Jafar rode into the compound, he stopped the car and we started discussing how today went. I had so much fun like never before, he only said we were going out for some ice-cream, but we ended up going everywhere, to different malls, we bought so many clothes and other stuffs, he got me a new phone as well. We also went to the cinemas, we ate out and had ice-creams as well, it was 6 pm when we arrived home.

Jafar: "Today was fun" I totally agreed with him

Nuriya: "Yeah, I will just go straight to bed" he laughed,

Jafar: "What? How can you go to bed so early?"

Nuriya: "Because I'm so full, and it's all your fault "  he raised his hands up in surrender

Jafar: "Sorry for spoiling you to much"

Nuriya: "Thank you" I said looking at him, our eyes met "For everything"

Jafar: "No need to thank me, we're friends!"

Nuriya: "That's good to hear, my first friend in Kano! " I declared

Jafar: "And Nasir?" why is he asking me about him

Nuriya: "he's also my good friend"

Jafar: "I have to go, it's getting late"

Nuriya: "Ok, take care of yourself" I smiled

Jafar: "Thanks, and you too" he smiled back, I came down from the car and he drove out of the compund, and soon he was on his way.
I went into the house and I almost had a heart attack, someone was sitting on the sofa watching TV. He turned to me standing at the door and he smiled

Nasir: "Hi!" how did he get in here? "I've been waiting for you"

Nuriya: "I went out!"

Nasir: "Yeah I know, with Jafar right?" 

Nuriya: "Yes" I said, quite unsure

Nasir: " let's eat, I bought some food!"

Nuriya: " Uhm, I'm kinda full, sorry?"  he made this face of disbelief

Nasir: "You can't be serious"

Nuriya: "I am, I'm so full right now... Wait where is your car?"

Nasir: "A friend of mine dropped me off here. So what will happen to all these food?"

Nuriya: "I'll keep them in the fridge, and heat it up in the morning"

Nasir: "Alright it's cool, So what do you want to do for the rest of the evening?"

Nuriya: "I just want to sleep to be honest"

Nasir: "okay, I guess I didn't come at the best of time"

Nuriya: "I'm really sorry about this, you could have give me a call first"

Nasir: "I did but your phone was switched off at the time"

Nuriya: "oh, maybe I was changing my phone then" he looked at the new phone in my hand

Nasir: "Is that an iPhone 13 pro?" he quickly walked towards me and grabbed the phone from me, I chuckled

Nuriya: "Yeah"

Nasir: "It's nice!" his smile disappeared

Nuriya: "thanks"

Nasir: "Do you know that his wife has the exact same type?"

Nuriya: "No, should I be worried?" he faked a smile

Nasir: "No! It's cool... I'll take my leave now" he slowly walked towards the door "goodbye!"

Nuriya: "bye" I smiled, and then he left. 'Why in the world did Jafar get me the same phone as his wife?'

                      *Jafar *




It was 8 pm and I just finished praying, I sat at the balcony that lead to my room, I was busy with work in my laptop when  my phone rang, it was my old friend Aminu that has been out of town for some time now.

Jafar: "Bad guy! What's up?" I sipped my glass of orange juice that was served to me a while ago,

Aminu: "I'm cool, how is it going?"

Jafar: "Men I'm just busy with work Wallahi"

Aminu: "When will you change man? for you it is always work! work! work! Where are you taking all these money to?" I laughed

Jafar: "And how will I give my wife the lifestyle she wants if I don't keep on making money?"

Aminu: "True Sha, and how is she doing? Hope she has calmed down a little? "

Jafar: "Calm fire! She is still the way she is oh, we're just praying she changes " he laughed so hard  "hey that's enough!"

Aminu: "Alright, I'm in town right now, when are we..."

Jafar: "And you are just telling me"

Aminu: "I just arrived this afternoon, I even met Nasir today... We hung out and not long ago I dropped him off at your flat" I stood up

Jafar: "What?"

Aminu: "Yeah, he told me you both had a guest that is staying over there so..."

Jafar: "Oh yeah, that's true.. Uhmm can I call you back?" with that, I hung up. I don't know why but for some reason I wasn't happy that Nasir is alone with her at her place. Few seconds later, my wife stood in front of me

Maria: "There you are" she wore a red night dress staring at me weirdly, "what were you doing?"

Jafar: "Working?"

Maria: " I want to talk to you"

Jafar: "Shoot!" she rolled her eyes

Maria: "How is your guest doing?"

Jafar: "Who? Nuriya?"

Maria: "No my mother" She was being sarcastic, I rolled my eyes at her.

Jafar: "She's doing great"

Maria: "So that means you went to see her today?" 'What does this woman want from me now?'

                     * Maria *

I felt a pang of jealousy in chest knowing that he always visits her, his silence says it all.

Jafar: "What do you want Maria?" he kept a straight face

Maria: "And why are you being so defensive? Did I say something wrong?"

Jafar: "No, but I know you are getting at something, so just tell me already"

Maria: "Alright! If you say so! I want Nuriya to leave that house!" he looked surprised

Jafar: "But you promised to let her stay, you promised to help"

Maria: "I know what I said!" I sighed, "I want her to move in with us"

Jafar: "Why?" I shrugged like it didn't bother me

Maria: " I don't think it would be nice to leave a lady in that big house all by herself, it's not safe out there!"

Jafar: "Wow! Maria, since when did you start caring about people?" he folded his arms

Maria: "I'm not a devil okay? And besides there's always a first time." he still doesn't look convinced "At least lemme get to know her" he scratched the back of his head

Jafar: " Alright, I'll talk to her about it"

Maria: "Great! Goodnight!" I kissed his cheek and went back inside. I hope it doesn't turn out to be a disaster.

                     **********



We just spent a week!!! 😍 I wonder how it turns out later on? Will Nuriya💝 agree to live with them? Did Maria made the right decision? Is Jafar falling in love? 🤔 Wait! Who is Sharifa's new boyfriend?? 😎
Well don't ask me, cause I don't know 🤐Stay tuned and find out what happens next💕💕....

7.



                    * Nuriya *

Nuriya: "Are you being serious?"

Jafar: "Yes! For the third time, so get your things and let's go! "

Nuriya: "But why can't I just stay here? I mean, I like it here" I am already getting used to this house as it is. Why would she suddenly want me to stay with them?

Jafar: "We both felt that it would be much  better and safer for you, at least you don't have to worry about house choirs anymore" he said, smiling

Nuriya: "I don't like this idea..."

Jafar: "Everything will be fine, I'll be right there don't worry" He reassured me, I knew I would agree in the end because I didn't want to be rude and decline his wife's offer, she might suspect something then. And besides what could possibly go wrong? right?

Jafar: "We will make it extra comfortable for you"

Nuriya: "Thanks" I faked a smile, and he laughed. I am comfortable here, I don't know why I have to go over there, I just pray that it all turns out well.

                  *Maria *

Maria: "Who owns this house Sharifa?"

Hafsat: "Yeah you have to tell us!" we were in her living room, apparently she moved in here two days ago, the house was pretty huge and very elegant. I was wearing a black abaya(gown) and a golden yellow veil. Hafsat wore purple Atamfa while sharifa wore a knee-length gown.

Sharifa: "Well, you are looking at the owner" She replied flaunting her diamond ring

Hafsat: "No way! Is that?" I was in shock right now

Sharifa: "Yes it is" She stood up and started dancing

Maria: "Congratulations! At least you are out of the market" I said casually

Sharifa: "Yes oh! thank you darling"

Maria: "Can you close your mouth Hafsat? Or you still can't believe your eyes" I rolled my eyes at her stupid behaviour

Hafsat: "Congratulations dear, but who is the person? " she stood up and hugged Sharifa.
Sharifa is Yoruba while Hafsat and myself are Hausa, whichever way, we all have come along way. So I stood up and joined the hug

Maria: "let's celebrate!"

Sharifa: "yeah!"

Hafsat: "Wait oh, but who is this guy? I'm curious!"

Sharifa: "Abeg(please) you will know later"

                   **********

The little party we had got me exhausted, I reached home and all I wanted to do was rest and have a long shower. I entered my home to a beautiful aroma of Egusi Soup, 'Aisha can't cook Egusi and Inna is out of town so what is happening? Or did she not go anymore?
I went to the kitchen and saw Nuriya cooking, she was wearing a yellow top, a black pants and a black veil on her head, while Aisha stood beside her taking lessons.

Aisha: "Welcome Hajiya" she started trembling, And Nuriya turned to look at me "we were just..."

Maria: "I didn't ask you what you were doing" I shut her up, with my head held up high "Nuriya right?" she nodded,

Nuriya: "it's really nice to meet you"

Maria: "I don't know whether it's the same on my part or not" I could tell she was nervous 'this girl is no match for me'

Nuriya: "Why is that?"

Maria: "What are you doing in my kitchen? You just arrived today, I decide who comes and go in here!"

Nuriya: "I understand, and I'm really sorry about that"

Maria: "it's good we understand each other" She was about to leave then she stopped in front of me

Nuriya:"Sorry, I'm really sorry I didn't mean to break any of your rules, I was just trying to help" I laughed

Maria: "Help? You might as well apply here as a new maid!" I walked pass her and went to my room.

                     **********

Maria: "She is in my house Inna" I was pacing in my room, while on the phone with Inna

Yusrah: "And so? You should not let her have any effect on you, just be yourself and act normal" Inna and I have become really close ever since that day

Maria: "Alright, you are right!"

Yusrah: "That's good to hear Hajiya"

Maria: "But she is quite beautiful Inna Yusrah, I'm a little worried about that" I must confess that it is the first time that I felt a little intimidated by another lady

Yusrah: "you shouldn't be.. anyways my advice is you should try to be nice to her"

Maria: "What? Why?"

Yusrah: "Because that is the only way that she won't gain your husband's sympathy, if you are mean towards her, your husband will always try to protect her and see you as a bad person. "

Maria: "I will do my best Inna"

                **************


                    * Nuriya *

I have never been so humiliated in my life, but why does she hate me though? She don't even know me, I was sitting in the living room. I don't think she will ever give me a chance, maybe I should just leave.

Jafar: "Hey!" he said snapping his fingers in front of me, making me jump out of my thoughts. He returned home apparently, I stood up  "I've been talking to you for a while now, Are you OK?"

Nuriya: "Yes, I'm fine.. Welcome home!" I smiled

Maria: "It is my job to welcome my husband home! " Maria said while descending the stairs, she came and hug him "Welcome baby" She has changed into a simple maroon gown.

Jafar: "Ok this is weird, did you hit your head or something? "

Maria: "How is it weird? I'm just being a wife to you" She rolled her eyes at him "Anyways your food is ready, so go freshen up and join us"

Jafar: "Great! I'll be right back" he went right upstairs, then she turned to me

Maria: "OK let's start this again, Hi my name is Maria and welcome to my home" she smiled at me, this woman is definitely unstable.

Nuriya: "thanks and I'm Nuriya" I was kinda unsure about everything

Maria: "you are welcome dear, let's go to the dining room, after you "I simply nodded, I went to the direction of the dining room, and she immediately followed behind me.

At the dining table, it was utterly quiet...too quiet, it was just me and her, we sat across from each other. She was on her phone, I noticed that it's all she does. Few minutes later Aisha started bringing in the food, I heard Maria sighed,

Maria: " I'm sorry about earlier, I shouldn't have said those things to you"

Nuriya: "it's okay, I understand"

Maria: "No, you don't.. It was my decision for you to stay here, I should have been a better host"

Nuriya: " Trust me I bare no grudge" She smiled

Maria: "Nice! I'm sure you and I will get along pretty well!" I smiled too, I really do hope we get along "So how old are you?"

Nuriya: " 26"

Maria: "Wow! I'm like 4-5 years older than you" I laughed

Maria: "And what is your qualification?"

Nuriya: "I am currently in 400 level now, I'm studying Civil engineering"

Maria: " Masha Allah!" I was happy that she was impressed

Nuriya: "I didn't have any funds so I dropped out, last month"

Jafar: "And you will continue next tomorrow!" we both looked at his direction as he made his way to sit beside his wife

Maria: "You made preparations?"

Jafar: " Yeah!" he looked at me smiling

Nuriya: "thank you so much! this means a lot" I can't believe I will be going back to school

Maria: "that is nice of you babe!" She turned to me "and congratulations to you"

Nuriya: "Thank you!"

Maria: " let's eat!" We started eating and the food turned out to be very good, just then we heard Jafar say

Jafar: "Nuriya cooked this!" everywhere was so silent that you could hear a pin drop. Ya Allah! doesn't this man want peace for me? Maria cleared her throat,

Maria: "How did you know?" she asked firmly

Jafar: "Come on babe, I just know" he shrugged

Nuriya: "I only helped Aisha out in the kitchen"

Jafar: " I still know you had a hand in it, you are a really good cook... So keep it up! "

Nuriya: "Thanks?" I was just concerned about how his wife would feel, but she continued eating like everything was ok.

Maria: "I have some friends coming in tomorrow, hope you don't mind making different dishes for us?

Nuriya: " Of course not, I'm happy to help " I am hoping she didn't take it personal, I pray Jafar let's us get along in peace.

                     **********

8.



                       * Maria *

Hafsat: "It has been long that I ate something this good, who cooked this?"

Maria: "Nuriya did"

Sharifa: "Everything?"

Maria: "Yeah, Aisha helped a little anyways" We were currently having lunch at my backyard, for some reason I decided to host my friends.

Hafsat: "And you are not bothered that she is this good with cooking?" I shrugged

Maria: "And why should I? So far she is OK, I guess I shouldn't have judged her so quickly " They looked at me like I've grown two horns

Sharifa: "I seriously can't believe my ears. Can you listen to what you are saying? Don't come and start crying later oh" I laughed

Maria: "Everything will be fine ladies, she's no match for me and I trust my husband" I stated firmly, Hafsat shook her head in disapproval

Sharifa: "What is my own? The food sha sweet"

Maria: "I dey tell you, anyways we should round up by 3pm, Nuriya and I are going to get some school supplies for her"

Hafsat: " Maria wetin she give you chop?"

Maria: "Enough about this guys, she might hear you" Hafsat raised her hands up in surrender, I just hope that she doesn't disappoint me.
Sharifa's phone rang and she quickly picked it up before Hafsat who was sitting beside her could see the caller, she stood up and went a little bit far to answer the phone.

Hafsat: "I seriously want to know who this mystery man is, why is she hiding him from us?" I shrugged, I couldn't care less about who she is engaged to

Maria: "But why do you let it bother you this much? Just let her be, All these hiding will end soon"

Hafsat: "Ok oh"

Sharifa: "Sorry about that, so what did I miss?" Hafsat was looking at her suspiciously, while I just stared at the two of them and sipped from my glass.

                   ***********

                  * Nuriya *

Maria: " And here we are!" she stopped in front of my new school, She has been really good to me truth be told. On our way here she told me stories of she and her husband in this same university, and how crazy he was about her. It made me feel like falling in love as well, I wondered if I would meet someone here at school... I guess time will tell

Nuriya: "thanks for the ride"

Maria: "Don't mention, I'm not busy anyways" she's right about that, it turns out that she is a full housewife. She chose to be that because she didn't see the need to earn money 'no company or industry can pay me what I get from my husband anytime I want' those were her words.

Nuriya: " Alright, later then"

Maria: "Take care" I came down and went inside, with the rest of the students.

                   ***********

                  *Yusrah*

Aisha: "Welcome back Inna"

Yusrah: "thank you Aisha" I greeted the brown skin Maid, 'as if I'm not one myself' She is quite chubby and very nice

Aisha: "We've missed you a lot!"

Yusrah: "I'm sure you did! Where is everyone? " I asked while sitting on the Sofa

Maria: "You are back! Welcome!" she greeted, she sat on the next Sofa and crossed her legs

Yusrah: "Thank you Hajiya, how have you been all this while?" by now, Aisha had already took my things to my room

Maria: "I've been well, Alhamdulillah!"

Yusrah: "And the lady?"

Maria: "She's around, somewhere" She said casually, and I looked somehow confused, she immediately read my mind "no need to worry Inna, everything is under control I assure you! "

Yusrah: "Alright Hajiya, if you say so. Hope your husband still gives you his full attention?"

Maria: " Yes he does" She smiled, I have missed a lot these few days "Why don't you go and freshen up, come down and have lunch"

Yusrah: "Alright Ma'am" I stood up and was about to go to my room

Maria: "Inna" I turned to her

Yusrah: "Yes ma'am?"

Maria: "No, forget it... You reminded me of someone that's all, but don't mind me"

Yusrah: "Ok Hajiya"

                     **********

                    * Yusrah *

Maria: "Aisha tell Nuriya it's time for lunch"

Aisha: "Yes Hajiya" she left the dining room, finally I get to see our guest

Yusrah: " This looks delicious Hajiya, thank you for letting me sit with you for lunch"

Maria: "it's nothing, really"

Yusrah: "You have really changed a lot Hajiya" She laughed, she didn't even take what I said personal "But why?"

Maria: "I'm just following your advice Inna, I'm being nice and so far it has brought peace in my home, so I might just continue doing that"

Nuriya: "Hello! Sorry I kept everyone waiting, welcome Inna"
If there's another word bigger than speechless, that is what I felt now. I was in total shock staring at my lost child standing before me, and then she sat down across from me

Maria: "Inna?" I jumped out of my thoughts

Yusrah: "yes? Thank you Nuriya" She smiled "How are you doing?"

Nuriya: "I'm good, how was your trip?"

Yusrah: "Alhamdulillah!"

Maria: "let's eat!"
While we were eating, I couldn't stop thinking about all the wrong I have done to my daughter. I had left her with an old friend of mine and I always go back to our village to see her every year, even at that she never got to know me.

I abandoned my child for a married man  because her father left us both, I didn't know what to do... I guess I panicked, either way there's no justification for my actions. I always sent some money to my friend for her upkeep, few years ago he divorced me and I started working here, I didn't have enough money to send to my friend which later made me steal from them a while back.

I tried to invest the money I stole but I got duped, so I had no choice but to return back here, and that's why she dropped out of school few months ago.
It breaks my heart that I can't even hug her right now, I would love to apologise... and also to tell her how much I love her and what she means to me.

Maria: "No lectures today?"

Nuriya: " it's our lecture free day,  so we'll continue tomorrow"

Maria: "Alright"

My daughter has grown up so well and she looks just like me, Masha Allah! I don't even know if I have the right to call her my child. Her phone rings

                     * Nuriya *

Nuriya: "Hi doctor! Excuse me " I stood up and went to the living room

Nasir: "Hi, how are you doing? "

Nuriya: "I'm good"

Nasir: "I heard you moved in with them"

Nuriya: "Yes that's true, sorry I couldn't call you. A lot has been happening these days that's why"

Nasir: "I also heard you continued school"

Nuriya: "Yeah I resumed yesterday"

Nasir: "Can we meet up tomorrow?"

Nuriya: "Sure"

Nasir: "I'll come pick you up"

Nuriya: "That's fine"

Nasir: "Take care!"

Nuriya: "OK... Bye!" I turned to see Inna staring at me, she came closer

Yusrah: "Was that Dr. Nasir?"

Nuriya: "Yes Inna" she seems kinda weird to me,  I wonder what's up with her?

Yusrah: "that's a nice phone you have!" She smiled staring at my phone in my hand.

Nuriya: "Thank you Inna"

Yusrah: "is it that the doctor is interested in you?" I quickly checked if anyone heard her

Nuriya: "uhm.. I don't know about that Inna " she laughed

Yusrah: "There's nothing wrong if he likes you, so no need to worry, at least he is single " She turned to leave then she stopped and turned to me again

Yusrah: "But mind you, there's nothing wrong with getting the bigger fish!" what did she mean by that?

                  * Maria *

Yusrah: "What can I help you with Hajiya?" I came into her room and sat on her bed

Maria: " Nothing much! Just tell me why you were acting all wierd at lunch?"

Yusrah: "I was just trying to assess your guest, and to be honest she's great... I like her"

Maria: "And isn't it too soon for you to conclude that already?" I was starting to suspect her

Yusrah: "But why do you ask? Remember earlier you told me not to worry about her, so I'm not anymore"

Maria: "On the contrary, I want you to keep an eye on her. We can never tell"

Yusrah: "That won't be a problem Ma'am"

Yusrah: "Good" with that being said, I left the room. I do trust Nuriya, but something is just off somewhere, I just can't place my finger on it, I will have to find out what it is.

                   * Jafar *

Jafar: "It was a decision we both made, and I said I'm sorry... Why are you so upset anyways?" I raised an eyebrow at him, we were in his office at the hospital.

Nasir: "I'm not angry, I'm just surprised that you didn't tell me sooner"

Jafar: "What for?" I asked casually,

Nasir: "You know I like her, so why are you like this?"

Jafar: "The more reason why we shouldn't let you be in the same room with her" I stated clearly, knowing how my friend is

Nasir: "How can you say this? You know I wouldn't try such with her, she's my kind of lady"

Jafar: "Really? I thought you liked chubby ladies" I reminded him

Nasir: "That was before I met Nuriya, she's just a complete wife material"

Jafar: "Indeed!" he knew i wasn't buying anything he says

Nasir: "Why are you acting this way? You are making me feel like you want her for yourself" I scoffed like I didn't care

Jafar: "I have a wife man!"

Nasir : "Then let me have a wife too!" I shook my head at this guy

Jafar: "OK let's do this...just wait until she's done with school, then make your move. If she decides to give you a chance or not, it is totally up to her"

Nasir: "There's no use talking to you" he said and threw a book at me, I dodged it "I should wait so that all those engineering students get to her before I do right?" He glared at me and I laughed at him, I checked my phone and saw an anonymous text.

                    **********

And the story goes on💕, I decided to make this chapter extra lengthy for you. Please what is wrong with that Inna sef🙄... I'm so happy my queen👑 is changing for the better 😘Can someone tell me Jafar's real intentions with Nuriya? Do you guys think Nasir😎 has a chance with Nurie? 😍We'll find out!