ABUJA, NIGERIA

Hauwa crouched beside Muhammad's chair, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she gazed at her six-year-old nephew, who was notorious for his picky eating habits. She began to sing the familiar tune, her voice rising and falling in a playful cadence:
"'Open, open, open wide, let the food come inside!" She gestured dramatically with her hands, coaxing Muhammad to join in, her fingers wiggling like a puppeteer's. Muhammad's small face scrunched up in resistance, but Hauwa's infectious enthusiasm eventually won him over. He hesitantly opened his mouth to sing along, his tiny voice squeaking out the words. Seizing the opportunity, Hauwa quickly popped a spoonful of food inside, trying to catch him off guard. Muhammad's eyes widened in surprise, and his face scrunched up in distaste. He pouted, his lower lip jutting out in a comical expression of displeasure, but Hauwa just laughed and encouraged him to chew, hoping her trick would work its magic once again.

His elder sister, Hanan, who is eight-years-old, sat beside him and Hauwa on the dining table as she silently ate her food. Unlike her brother she wasn't a picky eater and she ate whatever was given to her.
"Mamman quickly finish eating, otherwise we will be late for school." Hanan said just as she finished eating her food. When Hauwa checked the time, she realised they were indeed going to be late because it was already 7:47. She quickly finished feeding Muhammad and the driver took them to school.

Hauwa hastily made her way to the bathroom to take a refreshing bath. The warm water cascaded down her skin, washing away any lingering fatigue from the morning's chaos. She emerged feeling revitalised, her skin glowing with a soft radiance.

Wrapping herself in a plush towel, Hauwa made her way to her bedroom to dress for the day. She slipped into her NYSC uniform, the crisp fabric rustling softly as she moved. She paired it with a white Jersey veil, the delicate fabric draping elegantly around her face like a gentle caress. The simplicity of the outfit belied the complexity of her emotions, a mix of excitement and nerves as she prepared to embark on the journey to camp with Rahma.

Downstairs, Hauwa settled into a chair at the dining table, her eyes fixed on the clock as she waited for Rahma to arrive. The silence was broken only by the soft ticking of the clock and the occasional chirp of a bird outside. Just as she was starting to feel restless, Aisha and Mubarak emerged from their room, both dressed in their finest attire.

"Good morning, Mai-Jidda," Mubarak said, his voice warm and friendly.

Hauwa greeted him with a smile, deliberately ignoring Aisha. The tension between them was palpable, a lingering residue from their earlier conversation.

Aisha, sensing the chill, approached Hauwa hesitantly. "Mai-Jidda, I'm so sorry again for what I said about Sa'eed. I promise to never say anything bad about him again."

Hauwa's expression softened slightly, her voice measured. "See that you don't, ya  Aisha. I trust him, and I won't have anyone speaking ill of him."

Just then, Rahma arrived, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Hey, guys! Sorry I'm late."

Hauwa's gaze turned to her, a hint of annoyance creeping into her voice. "Rahma, what was that message you sent? Please you guys should just trust Sa'eed."

Rahma's expression turned confused and hurt but still said. "I know, I know. I just got worried, that's all."

Aisha's eyes widened in concern, but she kept quiet, not wanting to offend Hauwa again.

Mubarak, sensing an opportunity, cleared his throat. "You know, I can help you guys escape staying in the camp. I have some connections..."

Hauwa's smile was gracious, but firm. "Thank you, Ya Mubarak, but Sa'eed has already taken care of that. His family is...well-connected."

Rahma's eyes sparkled with understanding. "The Mato's are incredibly influential, aren't they?"

Hauwa nodded, her expression serene. "Yes, they are."

With their goodbyes said, Rahma and Hauwa bid Aisha and Mubarak farewell and made their way outside, where Sa'eed was leaning against his sleek ash Audi, looking handsome as always.

"Good morning, ladies," he said, his smile charming.

Hauwa's heart skipped a beat as she greeted him, her voice barely above a whisper. "Good morning, Sa'eed."

"Morning future bro-in-law." Rahma said and Sa'eed chuckled while Hauwa blushed red.

As Rahma settled into the back seat of the ash Audi, Sa'eed opened the passenger door for Hauwa with a gallant flourish, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. Rahma couldn't help but let out a delighted "Awwn" as she snapped a quick photo, capturing the tender moment. Hauwa, however, felt a flush rise to her cheeks as she glared at Rahma, her eyes flashing a warning to behave.

The car's interior enveloped them in a heady aroma, the scent of bakhoor and Tom Ford perfumes mingling together in a rich, intoxicating blend. As they pulled away from the house, the soft strains of "Blue" by Ruger filled the air, the music weaving a soothing spell around them. The silence between them was comfortable, each lost in their own thoughts as the cityscape unfolded outside.

Before long, they arrived at the camp gate, the imposing structure looming before them. Rahma hopped out, stretching her arms overhead as she took in the sights and sounds. Hauwa followed suit, her hand reaching for the door handle, but Sa'eed's fingers closed around her wrist, holding her back. She flinched, her heart skipping a beat, as their eyes met.

Sa'eed's face fell, his expression contrite. "I'm so sorry, Mi Reina. I didn't mean to startle you." He released her hand, his fingers brushing against hers in a fleeting touch.

Hauwa's thoughts whirled back to the conversations she'd had with Aisha and Rahma, their words echoing in her mind. She took a deep breath, her voice steady. "Sa'eed, you aren't my Mahram. I love you, I really do, but please stop touching me. It's haram."

Sa'eed's eyes clouded, his jaw working as he nodded. "But we will get married soon."

Hauwa's voice remained firm. "But we aren't married yet."

Sa'eed's face cleared, his expression resigned. "I promise to stop touching you, Mi Reina. Your wish is my command."

Hauwa's cheeks flushed a deep crimson as she met his gaze, her heart racing. "Are you upset?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Sa'eed's smile was gentle, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I can never be upset with you, Mi Reina. Your wish is my command."

With their conversation concluded, Hauwa and Sa'eed shared a tender goodbye, their eyes locking in a moment of understanding. Hauwa slid out of the car, joining Rahma on the sidewalk as they made their way to the registration desk. Sa'eed, ever the gentleman, waited patiently behind the wheel, his eyes fixed on the entrance as the hours ticked by.

Four hours passed, the sun beating down relentlessly as Hauwa and Rahma finally emerged, looking tired and hungry. They flashed Sa'eed weary smiles as they approached the car, their movements slow and laboured.

Sa'eed's face lit up with concern as he took in their exhausted state. "You both look like you could use a break," he said, his voice warm with empathy. "Let me take you to Bleu Cafe. You can eat and rest for a bit."

Hauwa and Rahma exchanged grateful glances, their fatigue momentarily forgotten in the face of Sa'eed's kindness. They slid into the car, the cool interior enveloping them like a balm.

Over steaming plates of food, they revived their spirits, Sa'eed regaling them with stories of his own camp experiences. Laughter and conversation flowed easily, their weariness melting away in the face of good company and warm hospitality.

Finally, with their energy replenished, Sa'eed drove them to Rahma's cousin's house in Gwarinpa, the evening sun casting a golden glow over the city. As Rahma bid them farewell, Hauwa felt a pang of gratitude towards Sa'eed, his thoughtfulness and care touching her heart in ways she couldn't express.

As Rahma disappeared into the house, Hauwa relaxed back into the car, her eyes drifting shut in exhaustion. But as the minutes ticked by, she began to feel a growing sense of unease. This wasn't the road to Lokogoma, where her sister's house was. She sat up with a start, her heart racing as she turned to Sa'eed.

"Where are we going?" she asked, her voice laced with panic.

Sa'eed's eyes crinkled at the corners as he laughed, his gaze fixed on her scared expression. "You look like you've seen a ghost, mi Reina," he teased.

Hauwa's anxiety spiked, her mind racing with worst-case scenarios. "Sa'eed, I thought we were going to my sister's house," she said, her voice trembling.

Sa'eed's smile softened, his expression turning gentle. "I'm taking you to meet my mother," he said, his voice low and soothing.

Hauwa's eyes widened in surprise, her panic giving way to curiosity. "Your mother?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

Sa'eed nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "Yes, my mother. I want you to meet her. She's been asking to see you."

"Ok."

Hauwa's mind raced as she tried to process the sudden turn of events. Meeting Sa'eed's mother was a big deal, and she couldn't help but feel a wave of nervousness wash over her. What if she didn't make a good impression? What if his mother didn't like her?

As they drove up to the house, Hauwa's anxiety spiked. The mansion loomed before them, its grandeur and opulence taking her breath away. The sleek black gates swung open, revealing a driveway that wound its way through meticulously manicured gardens. The house itself was a masterpiece of modern architecture, its sleek lines and gleaming surfaces radiating wealth and sophistication.

Sa'eed's family was clearly very rich, and Hauwa felt a twinge of intimidation as she gazed up at the imposing structure. She had never been one for lavish displays of wealth, and the sheer scale of the house made her feel a little uncomfortable.

As they stepped out of the car, Hauwa's eyes widened in awe. The entrance hall was a marvel of marble and crystal, the chandelier above them refracting light into a kaleidoscope of colours.

"Welcome to my home," he said, his voice low and proud.

Hauwa's nervousness returned, her heart pounding in her chest as she wondered what lay ahead. Meeting Sa'eed's mother was one thing, but navigating the complexities of his wealthy family was another thing entirely.

Sa'eed gestured for her to sit down while he went away to go get his mother as the maids brought refreshments for her.

As Hauwa sat nervously, sipping the refreshments offered by the maids, Sa'eed returned with his mother. She was a vision of elegance and poise, a tall and beautiful fair lady from Maiduguri. Her purple lace outfit, sewn into a stylish boubou, shimmered in the light, accentuating her statuesque figure. A warm smile spread across her face as she approached Hauwa, her eyes shining with kindness.

"Ah, Hauwa, my dear, it's so lovely to finally meet you," she said, her voice like honey, sweet and soothing.

Hauwa rose to her feet, feeling a little awestruck by Sa'eed's mother's beauty and grace. But as she was enveloped in a warm and comforting hug, she relaxed, feeling a sense of acceptance and belonging. The hug was like a gentle embrace, enveloping her in a sense of warmth and security.

"I'm so glad you could come, Hauwa," Sa'eed's mother said, holding her at arm's length to gaze at her face. "You're even more beautiful than Sa'eed described. I can see why he's so smitten with you."

Hauwa blushed, feeling a little shy but also happy to be accepted by Sa'eed's mother. She couldn't help but notice the way Sa'eed smiled at her, his eyes shining with love and adoration. She felt a sense of belonging, like she had found a new family, and it filled her heart with joy.

"Yakike? Ya karatu?(how are you and studies) Ko da yake you're done.
"Lfy kalau aunty; fine"
"Ah, I'm also your mother, so call me Mami." Hajiya Maymuna said with a beautiful smile and Hauwa nodded.
"I hope my coconut headed son is treating you well?" Mami asked and then knocked Sa'eed's head and he winced dramatically. Hauwa was unable to say anything and she only ducked her head shyly and smiled.
"Oh so she's a shy one? Wonderful." Mami said gleefully.
Mami reached towards the intercom besides her and called someone.
"Hello? Safina? Call your siblings and come downstairs." Mami said into the phone and hung up.
"So they are at home?" Sa'eed asked and Mami nodded.

Not less than 10 minutes later 3 girls and a little boy of about 5 years came downstairs. Immediately one of the girls saw Hauwa, she rushed to her and hugged her.
"Ah you must be Mai-Jidda? My name is Safina, Ya Sa'eed's favourite sister." Safina who looked around 17 said Sa'eed rolled his eyes and knocked her head.
"Don't break my wife." Sa'eed said and Safina pouted before another girl who also looked 17 said,
"Su Yaya masu wife." She said before turning to Hauwa and saying.
"Ya Mai-Jidda my name is Safira, Safina's twin sister and also the coolest and most beautiful sister." She introduced and Hauwa smiled at her. The other lady who was 3 years younger than Sa'eed scoffed and said,
"I'm your dream."

"Oh hello Adda Safar. I didn't know you were listening to us since you seemed uninterested and was busy with your phone." Safira being the sarcastic one said and the said Safar rolled her eyes before she said,
"Yes, what I'm doing on my phone is more interesting than getting to know this useless woman who is just after my brother's money." Safar said as she eyes Hauwa. Sa'eed didn't let her close her mouth as he yelled and said,
"Safar you will respect my wife or else I will deal with you." Sa'eed said. Though she was scared, she still managed to scoff and say,
"She isn't your wife."
"Yet." Sa'eed together with Safina and Safira, making them look at each other and giggle.
"Leave if you don't have anything good to say Safar and I will deal with you later." Mami said for the first, her tone filled with authority and Safar stomped her feet as she stood up and left angrily.

"I'm really sorry about her behaviour my dear, please don't mind her." Mami said and Hauwa smiled before she said,
"It's okay Mami." Her eyes met with Sa'eed and she saw the apologetic look he was flashing at her and she smiled at him. Mami then picked up the five years old cute boy that was shyly hiding behind her and placed him on her lap.
"And this is my last born, Mai-Jidda. His name is Ajmal, baby say hi." Mami said and the little boy shyly waved.
"And also Mami's favourite." Safina said.
"And you're big for nothing, you're jealous also I don't have a favourite, I love you all equally." Mami said and everyone laughed.

"Hello Ajmal, how are you?" Hauwa said softly as she made to carry him but he shyly hugged his mother and Hauwa smiled,
"And now he's trying to become Ya Mai-Jidda's favourite. You little pest." Safira said with a pout and everyone laughed.
"Why do you guys call me Mai-Jidda? It sounds so old, I prefer Hauwa or Jidda."
"Ya Sa'eed said you prefer being called Mai-Jidda." Safira said, making Hauwa glare at him and he raised his hand in surrender.
"You traitor!" Hauwa said.
"Ya Sa'eed is very very annoying I tell you. I wonder how you'll cope." Safina said and Sa'eed threw a pillow at her.

Hauwa had so much fun in the Mato Mansion though she couldn't meet his father because he was away on a business trip. Later in the evening Sa'eed took her back home. 

What do you guys think of Safar? I already dislike her.
Safina and Safira and definitely going to be my favourite twins and my shy Ajmal 🤭🤍.

I was so happy yesterday when you guys commented, I like it when you share your thoughts with me, hence the reason for the update today.

Pleashhhh🥹
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