₦airaland Forum

Life and Everything in Between (Episode Ten)

Link- https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/06/life-and-everything-in-between-episode_12.html

Ann2012:
Thanks for the update ma’am

Thanks for reading!

Episode Nine

Mom silently stirred the pot of ogbono soup as the smell of beef stock whiffed the air. She tasted the soup and crushed another seasoning cube.

“What? Are you here to stare or assist me?” she asked with a frown, noting the way I had been studying her since I joined her in the kitchen.

It was a Saturday and two days after Dad decided to call off the wedding. Khalid’s parents had promised to return to Nigeria to explain why they had to postpone the wedding. The house had suddenly turned quiet. Mom no longer spends the day talking about hiring the best caterer for the wedding or ensuring that she sends the invitation to every family member. Instead, she would spend most of her time in the living room, looking deep in thought as she stares at the TV.

“Mom, you can’t continue like this. It’s obvious you’ve not been yourself since Dad called off the wedding,” I stared at her with pitiful eyes.

She swallowed hard and turned off the cooker, walking towards the shelf and grabbing the bag of semo. “What do you expect me to do? Dance around after learning that all my efforts have been wasted? Rafiah, I’ve spent months planning this wedding. Finally, I’ve told my family and friends. Everyone knows that my daughter will be getting married grandly. What will I tell them now?” Mom said with a shaky voice.

I could see her eyes swell with tears as she leaned on the wall. “They’ll laugh at me, Rafiah,” she said with a scrunched-up face.

I reached over to her and pulled her into a hug. “We’ll get through this, in sha ALlaah. Let’s wait for Khalid’s parents to visit. I believe what they say will determine the success of this wedding. Please, Mom, try not to think about this. I know it’s hard for all of us…but we have to try to remain calm. Troubling over what people say will solve no problem,” I said as she cried in my arms.

“Thank you, my daughter,” she pulled away and cleaned her eyes. “Will you help me prepare this semo? I want to rest in the room.”

“Of course,” I responded, turning on the tap and filling the pot with water. “Have some rest, Mom.”

Her steps faded away as I placed the pot on the fire. I was walking out of the kitchen when someone bumped into me.

“Oooh!” Rasheedah chuckled as she regained composure. She surreptitiously whipped up her head to check behind her and returned her gaze, grinning from ear to ear. “I didn’t want Mom to notice that I’m going out.”

I stared at her incredulously, wondering how the lady, who had bawled her eyes out when Dad broke the news, was smiling affectionately. Rasheedah was putting on a red pleated gown and black veil. She toyed with the hand of her new leather tiger-skin bag with her lower lips curved in a smile. “What?” she laughed.

“What is going on? Where are you headed?”

She moved closer to where I was standing and whispered. “I’m going to meet Khalid.”

“Khalid?” I glared at her. “Does Dad or Mom know about this?”

“Nope, they don’t. So, Rafiah, you think it’s easy to let go just like that? To accept that you’re not getting married to the love of your life?”

“Have Khalid explained the meaning of that matter-of-life-and-death statement? I hope you understand why Dad made that decision?”

Rasheedah tapped her legs impatiently. “Look, Rafiah, I’ll get married to Khalid. I know that for sure. His parents are coming next week. They will see Dad, and all issues will be resolved. Just like it used to be,” she adjusted her veil and gave me a warning look. “Please, don’t tell Mom I went to see Khalid. I believe you’ll keep this as a secret.”

“Yes, whatever. Just be safe,” I stated as I returned to the kitchen to open the pot of boiling water.
***
I had just gotten to the company’s premises when I caught sight of Asmau and Jamal seated in the car. I could see Jamal placing a kiss on Asmau’s forehead and saying words I could not hear from a distance. Asmau laughed in response, grabbed her bag and alighted from the car.

As she strode towards the company’s building, she spotted me standing by the gate and waved her hands with her smile. “See my bestie!” she exclaimed.

Before Jamal drove out of the building, I greeted him with a wave. Then, I walked towards where she was standing and pulled her into a hug. “My pregnant bestie, Asalamu ‘alaykum.”

“Wa’alaykumu salam. You look beautiful, Rafiah. I love your blue skirt,” she trailed my outfit with a smirk. “Munir’s doing.”

I rolled my eyes. “Oh, please. Munir is just a friend and nothing more. By the way, I saw you and your husband doing mushy-mushy in the car. Well done.”

“That’s one percent of our mushy-mushy. You haven’t seen us act romantic,” Asmau laughed as she resumed walking. “What’s up with you? You look unhappy.”

“Ah, nothing really,” I cleaned the beads of sweat that had formed around my forehead with my handkerchief. “Rasheedah is still seeing Khalid. You wouldn’t believe it.”

Asmau shrugged. “I’m not surprised. How are your parents doing?”

We stepped into the building and hurried towards the counter to fill in our names. “They are trying to be fine. Should I feel guilty for feeling somewhat relieved that the wedding plans have been halted? I’m not pleased that the wedding might not hold. I’m just glad that there is no pressure anymore. Mom doesn’t bug me about finding someone real quick, and relatives do not visit anymore to lecture me about making marriage my top goal. No one wants me to stop by Oregun to meet a caterer or pick flowers from Ojota.”

Asmau stared at me with furrowed brows. “You should feel guilty.”

“Oh, astaghfirLlaah!” I muttered as we entered the office.

Munir was standing by the window with a phone pressed to his left ear. My heart flipped in excitement as I caught sight of him. How could someone be so handsome, cute, kind, and intelligent at the same time? If there was a perfect man somewhere, Munir had to be the one.

I never imagined that I could look forward to resuming work every single day. The thought of seeing Munir dressed in one of his crisp shirts would make my heart race faster. Asmau settled on her seat, and I walked towards mine, placing my bag on the table and trying hard to keep my shivering hands steady. I knew Munir would spot me and walk up to me. As I turned on my computer and noticed a familiar figure approaching my desk, I knew that I was right.

“Asalamu ‘alaykum, Rafiah. How are you today?” Munir greeted with a bright smile.

He was dressed in a black shirt and a grey pair of trousers. I smiled in return, trying hard to ensure that it didn’t come out too wide. “Wa’alaykumu salam. I’m fine, AlhamduliLlaah. How are you, too?”

“AlhamduliLlaah. So, I spoke with my brother yesterday. He was shocked when he read those emails. But he didn’t send them. Farouk might be a snob sometimes, but he would never ridicule anyone.”

“Who sent it, then?” I asked.

Munir tried to hide a smile. “My younger brother, Adam.”

My face blanched in shock. “Your younger brother?”

“Yes. Farouk kept his phone on the table in the living room…and guess what? Adam decided to play a prank by replying to your emails. We’re so sorry. Adam has apologized. Farouk was so furious. I mean, what if it was a business client?”

“Wow. So, it wasn’t Farouk. Okay. Apologies accepted.”

“He wants to make it up to you. Would you be chanced this weekend? Farouk would like you guys to meet up and talk about writing.”

“That’s great. I can always adjust my weekend tasks. So it’s a yes.”

“Okay. See you during lunch, Rafiah,” he smiled and walked away.

I smiled in excitement as I prepared to start the day’s task.

Ann2012:
Thanks for the update ma’am

Thank you, sis!

Asalamu ‘alaykum, everyone! I hope you’ve been great.
Ramadan is over, and we are about to resume our weekly series. The previous episode will be published again to be certain that we’re all on the same page.

Links on the page automatically takes you to previous episodes…up to episode one.
Have a great Sunday!

Link: https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/04/life-and-everything-in-between-episode.html

For this year’s Ramadhan, Maryam Nitty Wall presents a list of 5 captivating Muslim fiction pieces. Check them out!


Link: https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/04/ramadhan-reading-list-here-are-5.html

Ann2012:
What is really happening
Why calling off the wedding

Thanks for the update ma’am

You're welcome, sis.

Life and Everything in Between (Episode Eight)

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Link- https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/04/life-and-everything-in-between-episode.html

Abosede512:
Very interesting story. more pls and thanks for the update

You're welcome!

Ann2012:
Thanks for the update ma’am

You're welcome!

Life and Everything in Between (Six & Seven)
As I hurried to the living room to know what was transpiring, I hit my right feet on the lower end of the rusty door. Streaks of blood dripped from the second finger as I walked in increased pace, withholding the pain and uncertainty that gripped me.

As I walked into the living room, I caught sight of Khalid sitting on the sofa with lowered eyes. Mom and Dad wore a solemn expression and it looked like Mom would cry any moment. Rasheedah sat on the floor as she cried loudly.

“What happened?” I asked in concern and confusion.

Dad whipped his head up and stared at me with sad eyes. “Khalid is postponing the wedding.”

I gasped in shock as I walked towards where he was sitting. “Why? Why would you…why now?” I prattled in shock and dismay.

“Look, I can’t explain this now, but it’s all for the good. Know that I love Rasheedah and I’m not calling off the wedding. We just have to move the date for urgent reasons.”

“Like what?” I asked in shock.

“I cannot explain this now. It’s just…it’s a matter of life and death,” Khalid said as we all squealed in shock.

“I have to go,” he muttered as he rose to his feet and stormed out of the house.

“Khalid has disgraced me,” Rasheedah bawled her eyes out.

“He talked about life and death. Who could be in danger? Are we safe?” Dad wondered as I took a seat to save my wobbly legs from pulling me down.

“I believe it’s for a reason. But I’m scared. Life and death?” I said in confusion.

“He said he loved me…”

“He does love you. I believe he’s protecting us for a reason. You should talk to him later and try and find out some truths,” I said to Rasheedah.

“You’re right, Rafiah. There is a reason to this,” Dad agreed.

“Reason wo? What will happen to the arrangements that have been made? Do you know how much we’ve spent?” Mom yelled in annoyance. “I’ll call his parents and ask them the meaning of all these. Do you know the sweat and effort I’ve put into the marriage?” Mom cried.

“I’m sorry, Mom. I understand. I trust Khalid has a good reason for this. The wedding will hold in sha ALlaah,” I said as I hugged my mother.

Hours later, Rasheedah and I sat at the balcony, staring at the stars up in the sky. Dad had managed to convince Mom to get a sleep and for the first time in hours, the house fell silent.

The cool breeze tickled my skin as I remembered how bubbly the house had been before Khalid visited and broke the news. Wedding preparations rented the air. Food here and cakes there.

Discussions about aso ebi ...and so much more. Now, everywhere had turned gloomy and we were uncertain if the wedding will hold.

“There is no right man, Rafiah. Only manageable ones,” Rasheedah muttered as tears glistened her face.

I patted her hand. “I believe Khalid made this decision for a cogent reason. You should give him time, then hear him out,” I advised.

Rasheedah shook her head. “What if it is just an excuse to end this? What if this wedding will never hold?” she said as her phone chimed on the table.

Rasheedah stared at her phone for minutes before passing it on to me. “Look at what he sent,” she said as she gave me her phone.

Rasheedah, you’re the love of my life. I cannot think of spending my life with anyone else asides you. I am also ready to walk you down the aisle. To start a future with you and watch as we raise beautiful children. Masha ALlaah.

I am not ending this marriage. I cannot bring myself to do that…I’ll not be the same if I make such a terrible decision. As I sat in your living room, watching as you all gazed at me with disappointed eyes, I wished that I had brought better news. I hate to see your parents looking sad and angry…I hate to bring sadness upon your family.

You see, life is so unpredictable. This minute, you’re excited you can’t think of any worries. You believe you have everything you could ever want. The next, you’re sad and confused. You don’t know how you would get of every trouble in your life. You’re confused as hell. And you make decisions; some costly ones to save your loved ones.

Rasheedah, you’re the love of my life and I cannot bear to watch anything bad happen to you. I prefer to postpone this wedding than watch you get into danger. Believe me, this was for our good. And I’m sure that years later, we would tell our children about this with loud laughter. This will be part of our story.

Please, forgive me for breaking your heart. I didn’t mean to. I’m only trying to protect you. I promise you, our glamorous wedding- that will surely be the talk of town- will be held soon. And we will become husband and wife. And we will spend the rest of our lives together.
- Khalid.

Continue reading https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/03/life-and-everything-in-between-six-seven.html

Life and Everything Between (Episode Five)

“Rafiah!” Someone yelled my name from behind as I was walking towards the cafeteria.

I cleaned my wet forehead with a handkerchief as I whipped my head up. The path to the cafeteria was usually busy and crowded. Passers-by filled the road at both sides as they scurried towards their place of businesses. Buses and cars blared their horns at those who were driving rather slowly.

As I tried to dodge the motorcycle speeding past the road, I trailed my eyes at the sea of people waking behind me.

“Kosi lo jare!” The rider cursed between his breaths as he sped away.

I couldn’t get a glimpse of the motorcycle as he whooshed past but I was in time to perceive the stench of liquor that reeked from his mouth. I was still scanning through the crowd when I spotted a familiar figure walking at a fast pace. My heart froze as Munir’s eyes met mine.

He muttered ‘wait’ and raised a hand as he hurried to meet up with me. Placing a hand over my chest, I took deep breaths and assured myself that everything would be fine. That I would remain composed and strike up a conversation with him…like my heart wasn’t beating faster than normal.

Like I hadn’t noticed the way he had smiled at me while I stepped into the company this morning.

‘Tolu broke your heart. Talhah broke your heart. It’s no time to dream of a relationship that would never happen, Rafiah. Focus, Rafiah! He doesn’t like you. It’s all in your head!!!’ I thought as Munir met up with me.

“Asalamu ‘alaykum, Rafiah.” He greeted as we walked side by side towards the cafeteria building.

“Wa’alaykumu salam. You’re going for lunch?”

“Yes, I’m famished. Haven’t had anything to eat since morning. I can practically see stars,” he laughed and I chuckled in response.

Munir glanced at me before facing the road again. “You look…I don’t know. You don’t look fine, Rafiah? Hope everything’s fine?”

“Everything is fine,” I responded as I cleared my throat. “Why would you think everything isn’t?”

He scratched his head. “I don’t know… something is definitely off. Probably because Asmau isn’t present at work today. By the way, how is her health? Hope she’s improving?”

“Yes, she is,” I said blankly as we stepped into the cafeteria’s building.

Gosh, Rafiah. I had the chance to talk to my crush- who might possibly be interested in me- but I’m ruining this moment by giving brusque and cold responses. Asmau would literally smack me if she hears of this.

I caught sight of Faith as we walked to the usual table Asmau and I usually sit. Faith is a colleague at work who had taken extra effort to advise me on ways to move on from heartbreak. After the news of Tolu and Najeebah’s engagement broke, Faith had met me with wet eyes as she revealed how her ex had ditched her few weeks to their wedding.

“It will take time…but eventually, you’ll move on and forget all about it,” she had said with tears in her eyes.

I had stared at her with sympathetic eyes, knowing full well that she hadn’t recovered from the heartbreak.

“Hi, Faith!” I waved at her with a smile.

“Hello,” she smiled with a wink.

“I’ll go get our lunch. The usual jollof rice and coleslaw?” he smiled at me.

“Yes, thank you,” I replied as he walked over to the counter.

I whipped my head up to notice Faith staring at me. “Girl!” she mouthed with a grin.

I grinned in return as I unlocked my phone and checked my new notifications. A message from Rasheedah popped up.

Don’t forget to stop by the florist shop. Thank you, big sister!
- Rasheedah.

“Here we go!” Munir said as he placed two plates of steaming jollof on the table.

“Thank you so much!” I smiled as I took a spoon and started to eat.

“You guys- You and Asmau- have made fall in love with jollof rice,” he chuckled as sipped from his bottle of water.

“Thanks,” I responded as I continued to eat. “What do you think of your new job? Do you like it here?”

“Well... yes, I do. It is, no doubt, challenging to get used to a new environment at first. But, eventually, we’ll get used to it.”

“Yeah,” I said as I cut a slice of chicken.

We continued to eat in silence as the loud voices of other customers filled the room. Munir cleared his throat and glanced at me. “How are you coping at work?”

I stared at him with furrowed brows. “I’m coping well. Why do you ask?”

“I heard about what happened. You and Tolu. I know it must be hard working in such environment.”

I wanted to protest for bringing up Tolu but the look on his face was that of sympathy. “To be honest, it hasn’t been easy. Especially now that Tolu got engaged with someone from our workplace. Apart from the heartbreak, it hasn’t been easy knowing that people are staring at you with a look of pity and giving you preferential treatment because ‘Rafiah must be so heartbroken. No wonder she looks so sad!’ I wished I had gotten in a relationship with someone outside of the workplace.” I said as I took three sips of Coke.

“I’m so sorry for what you’ve been going through. I don’t know what it feels like to go through something this traumatic and I wish I can help. If you want someone to defend you anytime, I’m always here.” He raised a shoulder up and smiled at me.

“Thank you, Munir. This means a lot to me.”

“You should not change your mind about getting into a relationship with a colleague because of your past relationship. Not all men are Tolu.”

My heart raced faster as his statement rang in my head over and over again. Butterflies fluttered their wings in my stomach as I imagined our wedding together. Munir and I holding hands as we promise to love each other forever.

‘Not all men are Tolu,’ I muttered as I stared at my cold plate of rice. Like you, Munir. For the first time together, I was grateful Asmau couldn’t make it to work today.

“So, I got to apply for this job through my brother. He sent a job vacancy to my mail and I thought, let me apply for this. And boom, I’m here!”

“You were working someone else?”

“Yes. I’d been there for three years. No increment of salary or promotion. I just knew that I urgently needed to change jobs. Work in a different environment, gain new knowledge, explore new opportunities, and meet wonderful colleagues like you.” He said with a smile.

My stomach flipped in excitement again. I stared at my food and wondered if I could eat any further. The feeling of excitement had filled my belly.

“Munir, I don’t like it here. No…this is different from the Tolu story. It’s about the job I’m doing. I don’t have passion for accounting.”

“Then why are you here?”

“My dad wants his first daughter to be an accountant. I’m here because of him.”

Munir furrowed his brows as he dropped his spoon the ceramic plate. “I can’t believe this is still happening. Have you tried talking to him…making him understand that this does not bring you fulfillment?”

“Yes, I have. Long before I enrolled into the higher institution. We are told to make our parents happy. If this is what brings him fulfillment, then I’m ready to endure.”

“But it doesn’t bring you fulfillment, Rafiah. I think you should have a heart-to-heart conversation with him. The truth is, we can’t fulfill all our parents wishes. There are times that you have choose yourself. In terms of career, you have to choose what you want. By the way, what do you want to do? What do you have passion for?”

“Writing. I want to be a published writer, authoring several bestsellers and mentoring other aspiring writers.” I chuckled. “How do you tell your father that you want to write for a living?”

“Exactly how you’re supposed to tell him. That you have passion for writing. That you want to become a professional writer.”

I played with the hem of my hijab as I gazed at the door. A pudgy woman and her daughters had stepped into the restaurant. “I don’t even know how to go about it. Where do I start from?”

“My brother is an internationally-acclaimed writer. Faruk Zubair.”

I laughed unbelievably. “That’s your brother? The popular writer?”

Munir smiled. “Yes. That man is more popular than I am,” he laughed. “You should send him a mail. Tell him you’re from his naughty brother. It might take a while for him to respond but he’ll eventually do so.”

“Wow! This is unbelievable. Faruk Zubair! Thank you so much, Munir.”

“Do not mention. However, note that he is strict…well he acts like he is, but it’s a big lie.”

“Noted!”

“I’ll need your number to send his email address,” A smile lingered on Munir’s lips as he passed his phone.

Wow! What a day! I get to meet someone who knows one of the most renowned authors in Nigeria…and I might have found my husband!

***
Asmau laughed loudly as I told her what had transpired during the day. I didn’t miss a part as I related what Munir and I had discussed and how he had given vibes of affection.

“Maybe this is it! The one you’ve always been searching for. I guess the search is over.” Asmau giggled over the phone.

“I can’t really say until he proposes. I don’t want to get my hopes high, Asmau,” I said as I opened my laptop and logged into my Gmail account.

“Munir is handsome, a good Muslim and one of those men who wants the best for women. He wants to see you fulfill your dreams, Rafiah.”

“You’re right. But I won’t raise my hopes until he proposes. How is your health? Is the baby kicking?”

Asmau laughed. “Pregnancy is a whole new experience. I’m super-excited and nervous at the same time...”

“Mom is calling you to the kitchen,” Rasheedah said as she entered the room.

“We’ll talk later, Asmau. My regards to your husband. Asalamu ‘alaykum.”

“Wa’alaykumu salam, Rafiah. Goodnight,” Asmau said as she hung up the call.

As I walked out of the room, I heard voices in the living room…and then a piercing scream.

Life and Everything in Between (Three & Four)


Rasheedah gulped down her cup of juice and glanced at Khalid. “Never have you ever?”

“Never have I ever lied to my fiancée,” Khalid smiled at her.

Munir laughed loudly as he clasped his hands. “I’m next!”

It was Saturday afternoon, and Rasheedah and Khalid had organised a fun hangout at Ikeja GRA. They literally dragged me to accompany them to the hangout, not knowing that Khalid had also invited his close friend, Munir.

“You’re both single. Something can come out of this meeting,” Khalid had whispered when we arrived at Sweet Sensation.

“I don’t like all these arrangements…” I was saying when Khalid cut me off.

“Just go with the flow,” he stated before walking up to meet Munir.

Munir was a tall and skinny man with beady eyes and fair skin. He had glanced at me once with quirked eyebrows. I wondered what he thought about me. Well, I perceived him as a proud person…I might be wrong. Time would tell.

We were playing several games, and none of them fascinated me. I wished that I could return home and curl up on the bed while I read an exciting novel.

“Senegal,” Munir said as he started a new game.

I winced and adjusted myself on the seat. We had been playing these games for over thirty minutes…and my neck had started to ache.

“Togo,” Khalid said hurriedly.

“Malawi,” Rasheedah continued.

“Keny…” I prattled as I realized that I would be next.

Munir glanced at me and lowered his eyes. “What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?”

I cleared my throat as I tried to recall scenarios in my head. The only cringe-worthy thing I’d done was stalk Tolu on social media. I still hadn’t stopped. Even though I convinced Asmau that I had unfollowed his accounts on social media, I still checked his recent post this morning.

The picture of Tolu grinning widely as Najeebah stood happily beside him. I couldn’t drift my thoughts off the image of their happy faces. They had visited Lufasi Park and took pictures around tall green grasses and large trees. Late last year, Tolu had promised me that we would visit there on his annual leave. Now, he had visited with his new lover, Najeebah.

“Rafiah!” Rasheedah yelled my name.

I stared around to notice their eyes peering at me. Munir glanced at me with a look of disgust and broke a piece of biscuit in his plate.

“We’ve been waiting for your response like ever!” she grimaced.

I smiled. “I think I’ll pass,” I sipped my drink and insisted that it was better to remain mute than disgrace myself in the front of them.

Tell them I was stalking my ex? No way!

Munir yawned. “This hangout is not going as I expected. Believe me, Khalid, I’m bored.”

“Well, we need to visit the drink store before heading off. We should probably leave now,” Rasheedah said as she smiled at Khalid.

“I’ll go settle the bill,” Khalid stated as he rose from his seat.

“I’ll join you!” A mischievous grin was plastered on Rasheedah’s face as she tailed Khalid.

So yes! I was left with the proud-looking person my sister and her fiancé was bent on matching me with. Munir!

Munir glanced at me again and cleared his throat. “Are you always this quiet?”

“Well, I’m selectively shy,” I stated as I pretended to be preoccupied with my phone.

“Okay,” Munir replied as he picked up his phone and started to type.

Rasheedah and Khalid arrived some minutes later, stealing furtive glances at us. “Are you guys bonding?”

Munir grimaced. “I need to go home and relax.”

Khalid laughed, “But you were really looking forward to this meeting,” he said, glancing at me.

Munir scrunched up his face in a frown as he sprung up from the chair. “It didn’t turn out as expected. Can we leave now?”

“Okay.” We packed our bags and prepared to leave.
***
“We’ll have over two thousand guests,” Rasheedah guffawed as Khalid was driving us home.

They were, as usual, talking about their plans for the wedding. I stared out of the window and sighed deeply as the warm breeze tickled my skin. I wondered how realistic their wedding plans were.

“Can we hold it in Dubai…or make it a destination wedding?” Khalid quipped.

“It’s just a one-day event,” I added with a scrunched-up face.

Rasheedah rolled her eyes as she glared at me. “It’s not just a one-day event. It’s my wedding,” she insisted.

“Oops. Sorry. You can have it the way you desire…” I was saying when my phone chimed with a new notification.

Hey. How’s your weekend going?
- Talhah

I grinned excitedly as I started to type.

Not too well. I guess I want to appear in my room now!
- Rafiah.

Not at home?
- Talhah

No. Remember I told you I’d be hanging out with my sister and her fiancé?
- Rafiah.

Oh, yes, you did. I’m sorry. I can’t wait to see you next week. I’m super excited!!!
- Talhah.

Same here.
- Rafiah.

Talk to you later. I need to catch up with a friend at the park. Asalamu ‘alaykum.
- Talhah.

Wa’alaykumu salam, Talhah.
- Rafiah.

I clicked on the ‘send’ button and threw my phone on the seat, imagining the moment I would finally meet Talhah, the imaginary man I might be in love with.
***
Mom spent breakfast talking about aso ebi colours to choose from. My head throbbed in pain as I watched her and Rasheedah argue over colours.

“I know you want the best for me…but it’s still my day. Please…” Rasheedah was saying with a frown when Mom interrupted.

“I know it’s your day. That’s why I think this colour will be perfect…or what do you think, Rafiah?” Mom gazed at me as she showed me a picture on her phone.

I scratched my hair in confusion. “It’s…a nice choice. Rasheedah, why don’t you go with mom’s colour?” I said teasingly as I watched as Rasheedah’s forehead creased with a frown.

I muffled laughter that filled my lungs as I stared at her frustrated look. “I need a nap. This whole wedding preparation is stressing me out.” Rasheedah said as she grabbed the empty plates and entered the kitchen.

I took my cup of water and strode to the living room, sitting next to my dad on the sofa and glancing at the programme he was watching- The world news on Al-Jazeera.

“Rafiah, how is work?” he reduced the volume of the TV and turned sideways, staring at me with eager eyes.

“AlhamduliLlaah. Work is fine. I think I’m getting used to the environment….and financial world…” I laughed nervously as I wondered if I had used the word right. Financial world?

It seemed Dad didn’t take notice because he was scrolling through his phone. “I want to show you a post…ah yes! There it is,” he gave me his phone.

On the screen was a post talking about the success journey of a young accountant. “You don’t have to read it all now. I’ll send the link to your WhatsApp. The post is very motivating. Rafiah, I want you to break grounds. I want you to claim top positions in the financial sector. I want my first daughter to become a reputable accountant,” Dad beamed in excitement as his eyes travelled far.

I could imagine him picturing his daughter working in a large corporation, giving orders, attending seminars and gracing business interviews. I could picture events that I would never wish to experience.

“You will do this for me, wouldn’t you?” he asked.

“In sha ALlaah,” I smiled as I watched the TV, wondering what matters the most- pleasing myself or Dad?

“I’ll be back,” I muttered as I walked to the room, recalling the words Dad had said.

‘You will do this for me, wouldn’t you?’

I wished Dad had ever asked if I derived fulfillment being an accountant…if I wanted to be someone else.

Rasheedah jumped up in fright as I entered the room. As she covered her face with her hands, I noticed that she was crying. “What is wrong?” I asked, sitting beside her.

Tears streamed down her face as I pulled her hands down, and she looked up at me. “Everything, Rafiah. Everything! This whole wedding process is overwhelming.”

“Is it the colour argument you had with Mom?”

“More than that. The preparation is very stressful. Now, I’m beginning to wonder if I really want to go ahead with this.”

“But you love Khalid, right?”

“He isn’t perfect, Rafiah. He can be childish and immature. Sometimes, I wonder if he would make a good husband. But I love him…and I guess that’s what matters. But…I don’t know if I’m making the right decision. I’m in my final year at the university. I don’t know if I’m ready to take this path and if I’m making a mistake…”

I held her hands. “Follow your heart, Rasheedah. Do what you think is right…and do not be discouraged.” I said, remembering that I had not implemented the advice I gave my younger sister.

I’d always wanted to become a professional writer, but I was…choosing the accounting profession to please Dad.

Continue reading https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/03/life-and-everything-in-between-three.html

Episode Two
I flashed my brightest smile as I walked into Fulaan’s building. Adjusting my black maxi skirt and confirming that my white blazer was well-fitted, I raised my shoulders high and walked graciously. That was the best way to appear after the news of a breakup. And the report of your ex getting engaged to someone else.

Nothing could spoil this week. Not the marriage talk Mom had engaged me with this morning or the dreadful I received last night (Tolu getting engaged to Najeebah!). The week would be great. I could feel it!

“Hey, Rose! I greeted the receptionist with a bright tone as I unlocked my phone and went through the new notifications. My eyes widened in surprise as my phone buzzed with a million messages. When did I become an overnight celebrity?

‘Why are my colleagues sending swarms of messages? Did I get promoted?’ I wondered as I wrote my name on the register.

“Sorry oo, Rafiah,” Rose responded with a croaky voice.

I whipped my head to see her staring at me with sympathetic eyes.

I chuckled with creased brows. “Sorry for what?”

“Tolu got engaged to Najeebah. We’ve all heard the news. And…I’m wondering how devastating that must be. How would you cope…seeing them every day at work?” she said in a mockery tone. I could tell that she was trying her best not to smile.

I glanced around and realized that everyone had received the news. They were all staring at me. Oh my gosh! Wasn’t this the best moment to call in sick? I could just bring up an excuse and head home…but face Mom?

“Have a nice day,” I muttered as I dropped the pen and crept to my office, trying hard to ignore the pairs of eyes that were fixed on me.

I wondered why I had to go through such a traumatic experience. Home was a disaster…and now, I wouldn’t be able to breathe at my workplace. When Tolu had called our relationship quits, I thought it was the worst thing that could happen to me. I never knew what was yet to come- that Tolu would start a new relationship with someone from our department!

Fulaan’s office space was such that each department was apportioned to a room. So, I had to work in the same space with all of my colleagues…including Tolu and Najeebah.

Settling on my seat and placing my bag on my desk, I lowered my head and glanced through my unread WhatsApp messages.

Hi Rafiah. I heard about Tolu and Najeebah’s engagement last night. What can I say? Please be strong. It happens, and the lady is always the one to blame. Don’t let anyone’s mockery get past you. Be strong.
- Nkechi.
Rafiah! I heard oo! Men are not worth it. Imagine what Tolu did. After breaking your heart, he went for someone else in your department. Ah, men are wicked. That’s why I’ve decided not to get married. One yeye guy also broke my heart. Let’s be friends. I owe you lunch.
- Eugenia.

‘Eugenia, the tomboy? No way! I’d pass.’ I muttered as I ignored other messages and started to arrange my desk. I sighed deeply as I caught sight of Faith walking towards where I sat. Wrong decision; I could have just called in sick.

“Hello, Rafiah!” she greeted.

Faith was dressed in a red-fitted shirt and black mini skirt. She also painted her lips with red-bold lipstick. Late last year, news had it that Faith was having an affair with the company’s co-founder. And she has been promoted twice since the rumour broke out.

“Hi,” I smiled in return as I continued arranging my desk.

“I heard about what happened last night. The news is everywhere…”

“Good morning, Faith. Please, can I have a word with Rafiah? Mr. Kolapo sent me.” Asmau said as she appeared in front of us.

Nkechi grinned, displaying her bold red lips. “Okay. I’ll see you during lunchtime. Take care, Rafiah.”

I heaved a sigh of relief as I stared at Asmau. “Thanks for bailing me out. These people have been bugging me since I entered this office. Tolu this…Tolu that. It is frustrating,” I sighed deeply as I stared at the ceiling.

“Asalamu ‘alaykum,” she greeted, staring at me with curious eyes.

“Wa’alaykumu salam. I’m just…” I was saying when she pulled me into a tight hug.

“It will be fine. Everything will be fine, in sha ALlaah. You’ll get through this.”

Tears stung my eyes as I noted that more colleagues were resuming at their desks. “How can I bear to see Tolu every single day? Abi, this is the period to resign from this job?”

Asmau pulled away from me and slapped my arm. “You can’t be serious. Because of a man? As I said, you’ll get through this. By the way, you look beautiful in this outfit!”

“Thank you, Asmau,” I smiled at her as I settled on my seat and turned on my computer.

As I opened the previous day’s document, I stared numbly at the screen and wondered if I was dumb. I mean, how did I even get this job, and why am I here? Why did I decide to become an accountant?

“Mrs. Lola is calling us for a meeting. We are to meet at the board room now!” Susie, the short and plump lady, said as she grabbed a jotter and pen and headed out of the office.

We all scrambled to our feet as we strolled towards the board room.
***
I could see Mrs. Lola talking earnestly and demonstrating with the movement of her arms. I could see that she was dressed in a white shirt and black palazzo. I could also spot that her wedding band was absent from her finger…again. However, I couldn’t pay attention to a word she was saying. My thoughts were transfixed to the news I received last night and what would become of me at the office.


I could spot Tolu from a distance, stealing a glance at Najeebah and sitting with pride and fulfillment. Najeebah was also staring repeatedly at the gold engagement ring resting on her middle finger. The smile on her face made it seem like she had achieved the most astounding feat in life.

My eyes were dizzy, and my legs felt wobbly as I tried to concentrate and take down notes like others. I tried to keep my eyes open, but they kept betraying me. It was no surprise because I spent last night bawling my eyes out.

I struggled to keep my eyes open again but soon…

“Rafiah!” Someone yelled at me.

I opened my eyes to see Mrs. Lola glaring at me. I glanced around and saw that everyone was glaring at me. “I’m sorry…I didn’t sleep well…” I muttered.

I heard giggles as I lowered my eyes and fought the tears from streaming down my face.

“Please, Rafiah, take this meeting seriously. Keep your eyes open and pay attention.” She bellowed as she continued her speech.

Stealing a glance at Tolu, I saw that he was staring at me. Asmau squeezed my arm as I opened my jotter and pretended to take down notes.

I spent the rest of the period pretending to be engrossed in Mrs. Lola’s talk. When we dispersed, I lowered my head and traced my way to my desk. It was then that I noticed someone standing on my path.

I froze in surprise and shock as I raised my eyes. It was Tolu, glancing at me with a quizzical look. I could also spot Najeebah stealing glances as she walked past us. “Asalamu ‘alaykum, Rafiah.”

Tolu was tall and fair-complexioned with charming eyes. His eyes were everything! They dazzled whenever he smiled. I tried to bring forth words from my mouth but what came out were breaths of air.

“Rafiah?”

“Yes…yes…” I stuttered. “How are you…how is work?”

“AlhamduliLlaah, Rafiah,” he cleared his throat. “Erm, I just wanted to let you know that I’m sorry…I know this might be difficult for you…”

I let out a chuckle. “Difficult? No. I’m fine…we’re cool. There’s no issue at all,” I gulped hard.

Tolu smiled. “Well, I’m glad to know we’re on the same page. I’ll send you the wedding invitation card soon. Would you mind attending?”

“Oh…of course. It would be an honour.”

“Great. Have a great day at work,” he said as he walked away.

Asmau appeared behind me. “Are you okay?”

I scrunched out up my face as I let out a shuddering sigh. “Do I look fine? AstaghfirLlaah. I don’t, Asmau. Can we just continue with today’s tasks?”

Asmau stared at me with sympathetic eyes. “Yes, we can,” she replied as she held my arm.

***
I could spot the movement of Asmau’s lips as she talked earnestly about a topic, swinging her hands and widening her eyes to emphasize her point. I wasn’t paying attention. All I think of was the way I had gotten disgraced at work this morning. Mrs. Lola had ridiculed me, and colleagues mocked me! My head couldn’t stop recalling the laughter that filled the air.

“Rafiah!” Asmau yelled my name.

“Yes?” I said as I put a spoon of rice in my mouth.

Asmau and I had gone for our lunch break. As we sat down and ate our meals, my thoughts were clogged with the incident that happened some hours ago.

She gave me an incredulous stare. “You’re saying you haven’t been listening to what I’ve been saying?”

I sipped from my bottle of water as I glanced at her with apologetic eyes. “I’m sorry. What have you been saying?”

“I was talking about how my husband bought a hideous gown for me…well, it’s pointless now. Tell me, what is bugging you? Tolu and Najeebah?”

I placed my hands over my head. “Everything, Asmau! Everything! What’s worse is that I have to see them every single day.” I blurted out as I took my phone from the table and logged into Instagram.

Colourful ad captivating pictures of people wearing happy faces filled my Instagram feed. I wondered if they were truly happy. As I double tapped on a post updated by a blogger dressed in an orange gown, my phone chimed with a new notification.

Hi Rafiah. How’s your day going?
- Talhah.

Talhah was a financial journalist I had met in a Telegram group. He had sent a private message, and we started a conversation. He seemed like a smart and friendly person. Only that he rarely came online. Maybe this was the time to give social media relationship a chance. He could be the one! I’d read several stories of couples who met their significant other on social media. This could be it!!!

My face flickered in delight as I imagined Talhah appearing at the office with a bouquet of roses! My colleagues would be stunned. They would finally realize that my life could go on perfectly without Tolu!

“Rafiah?” Asmau called again.

I grinned as I looked up from my phone. Just then did my phone buzz with a new notification.

I was wondering if you’ll be free next weekend. We could meet in a public space. Say, Ndubuisi Kanu Park?
- Talhah.

That would be awesome!!!
- Rafiah.

After clicking the ‘send’ button, I looked up to see Asmau glaring at me. “What? I am making sure I live my best life by forging ahead. I’ll be going on a blind date with someone I met on social media.”

Asmau spilled rice on her hijab as she heard what I just said. “A blind date?”

“Yes, Asmau. Life is about exploring. Who knows? He could be the one.”

“Well…I think you should take things slow…”

“It’s not like I’m getting married to him today. Asmau, if you lived with my mother, you’ll be desperate to get married. I’ll also go on a date with my mother’s friend’s son. I mean, let’s give everything a try.”

Asmau chuckled as she held her bottle of water. “Here’s to finding the one.”

I hit my bottle of water against hers. “Here’s to finding the one!”

“So, will you be attending my sister’s wedding? It will be fun!” she said with excitement.

“I don’t…know. I have no new dress to wear.”

“Speaking of new dress…remember that I told you my husband bought a hideous gown for me?” Asmau winced. “I was supposed to wear it to the wedding! He surprised me this morning by presenting a colourful box. I was like, ‘Oh, this might be the glamorous dress I had said that I wanted to wear to my sister’s wedding.’ Upon seeing the gown, I was shocked to see it was so ugly. Big, shapeless…and he didn’t buy it at a low price.”

I gave a burst of throaty laughter. “What did you do? How did you react?”

“I feigned a smile and acted like I was so excited. Then I placed a kiss on his lips,” she explained.

“Awwn…so pretentious. Why didn’t you just tell him the truth about the dress?”

“It will break his heart. Do you know what he must have gone through to choose the outfit? I don’t want to discourage him from surprising me with gifts.”

“Oh, I see,” I stated, wishing that I could be Asmau with a loving husband. “What will you do now?”

“I guess I’ll meet a good seamstress. We could make some adjustments. So…are you attending the wedding?”

“I don’t have a husband to surprise me with a dress,” I said as Asmau laughed loudly. “Seriously. I don’t have a dress to wear.”

“No problem. I’ll fix one for you before the day,” Asmau was saying when her phone started to ring.

A wide smile spread across her face as she answered the call. “My love…”

I turned away and faced my food, knowing it would be one of those long calls with her husband that wouldn’t end until the end of lunch break.
©Maryam AbdulWahab

Life and Everything in Between (Episode One)

A smile spread over my face as I watched Rasheedah talk about her wedding day; how she planned on putting on a glamorous blue gown and stealing the gaze of her guests. How the wedding would be the talk of the town and how she yearned for such a memorable moment. Dinner was practically about Rasheedah’s wedding. We couldn’t talk about anything else.

“You will be the happiest woman on your wedding day,” Mom stared at her with a bright face. “You’re getting married to Khalid…and he loves you,” she smiled at him.

Khalid, who was cutting a slice of meat, whipped his head up and grinned at her. “I love Rasheedah more than you can ever imagine,” he said with certainty.

Three months and five days ago, my younger sister, Rasheedah, said yes to spending the rest of her life with Khalid. The house had bubbled with excitement when she revealed the news. We had drunk glasses of fruity wine and ate bowls of seasoned chicken to celebrate the engagement.

Khalid was not only a sweet person who had fallen head over heels with my sister, but he was also the son of Honourable Suleiman Olalekan, the commissioner for works in Lagos State. And Rafiah, the twenty-seven-year-old elder sister, was still jumping buses to work every day…with no plan of getting married soon. Yes, me.

Continue reading https://www.maryamnittywall.com/2021/02/life-and-everything-in-between_14.html

LOL!

Rafiah hates her life; her love life is a mess and her job cripples her with anxiety. Her younger sister is set to walk down the aisle. The love of her life is also getting married to someone else…and she has to see them at work every day!

Surprising events occur as Rafiah searches for the one. She must also search for her sister, who goes missing a week to her wedding.

A new web series will commence next week. Grab your bowl of popcorn!

I will produce quality and outstanding articles. My contact: 08147693307.

No, I didn't.

Adeola25:
Innalillahi wahina illehi rojihun. Welldone Mareeam, the story is full of many life lessons. Jazakum llahu khayrah.

Waiyyaki. Thanks for reading, Adeola.

daddio:
Sniffing and wiping tears as I read through, thanks for the story.

You're welcome. Thanks for reading.

zika19:
Quite thought provoking. Thanks for the story. Cried while reading the last part.

Thanks for reading, Zika.

jenifer007:
Wow I enjoyed every bit of it and I learnt a lot...Thank you mareeam

Thanks for reading, Jenifer.

Her Last Breath (Episode Twenty-Six)
Khayrah
“What do you want to become when you grow older?” I smiled at Hussein as I held his little hands and watched his bright face lit in excitement.

The air was crisp and clean, the type that gives a cooling sensation to one’s skin. I glanced at the clouds and noticed the sight of brown smoke forming a spherical shape.

“I want to be a medical doctor. My English teacher told me that doctors save lives. I want to save lives, Aunty Khayrah,” Hussein explained as he grinned at me.

I stared at his lovely eyes and noticed that his face had similar features with his father, Taofeek. It was a pity that I never found the chance to spend time with Taofeek’s children. Hussein was a bit shorter than his brother and he had his mother’s complexion- dark skin like the colour of chocolate. Hussein was the cheerful and friendly one with a bright face and a captivating smile. While Hassan loved to hang around his mother with traces of fear and anxiety in his eyes, Hussein was the free-spirited brother who would strike up a conversation with a stranger.

Comparing Taofeek’s sons, I likened them to me and Fadilah while we were still young. Was Fadilah the free-spirited daughter while I was the introverted and shy one?

“Aunty Khayrah, is it not a good profession? Should I become a doctor?” he asked, drifting me away from my thoughts.

A drop of tears trickled down my face as I stared at him in admiration. “You can become whatever you want to be, Hussein. You can become anything.”

I remembered when I was much younger than Hussein and had written composition about what I would become when I grow up. A nurse! Haha! I wanted to become a nurse. But I took a different career path before enrolling in the university and ended up doing nothing. When sickness hits hard, you would forget about becoming anything. You would have no craving to become one of the most admirable women or to top the list as one of the most notable Africans making a mark in the world. Nothing would matter except breathing. Your biggest dream would be to see another day, knowing full well that you hadn’t breathed your last the night before. You would realize that health is what matters the most- not wealth, fame, beauty or brain. You would realize that waking up every day feeling healthy and revived is the greatest gift.

But…would you tell this to a seven-year-old boy who has great expectations about the future and who would have no idea what it meant to count one’s last breath? No, you won’t. Yes, you would feign a smile and make him picture a bright future ahead of him.

Hussein stood up from my laps and hurried towards the door. “My brother will be looking for me. Our mummy wants to read animal stories for us. I’ll come back when we are done.”

“Okay, Hussein,” I smiled at him and glanced around the compound, noting the well-trimmed flowers and green grasses that shone brighter than ever. Why hadn’t I spent more time in the balcony, appreciating the beauty of nature and doing other great things while they last? Why hadn’t I spend every second of my life, doing things that matter the most?

Inhaling the clean air and watching the palm tree leaves flutter with the movement of the wind, I recalled what the doctor had said. The statement that had lingered in my heart for months and made me experience sleepless nights.

‘Khayrah, you have two months to live,’ he had said.

Two months? Just two months? Was I now a time bomb, waiting for the moment to explode? Did everyone see me like that too? Was I going insane?

I cleaned the flood of tears that filled my ears and stood from the chair. I walked around the balcony and imagined what it felt like to breathe one’s last. I wondered if ALlaah was pleased with me. I wondered how I would fare alone in the grave. Just me. Not with Taofeek or mom or dad. Alone. In the dark. Knowing I’m left to face my deeds.

“Khayrah…Khayrah, your food is getting cold,” Funmilayo stated as she stepped into the balcony.

“Thank you, Funmi. I would be there in a minute,” I forced a smile as I noted her eyes travelling questioningly over my wet face.

“Are you okay?”

“I’ll be fine, Funmi. I just need to be alone.”

Funmilayo gave an understanding nod. “Okay. I’ll be waiting for you.”

I had called all family members- Mom, Dad, Fadilah, Hafsah, Taofeek’s father, Aliyah, Lukman, Jalil, Funmilayo and her children…everyone close to me for a small get-together. I knew they understood what it meant. That I might be inviting everyone to see their faces for the last time. That I might soon breathe my last. If they had thought so, they were right. I was a time bomb and I knew I would soon explode.
***
“Remember when Khayrah fought that bully that grabbed her biscuit?” My mother gave a throaty laugh as she sipped from her cup of kunu.

It was a full house. Everyone was present. Every single one. I sat on the sofa and stared at them with a heart filled with happiness. My support system was all here. All of them!

“I hugged and told her that she has made me proud. Yes, she fought but she stood up against her opponent.” My father laughed loudly and the rest joined.

“Khayrah is a pretender. She acts like she is this gentle and calm lady but she knows how to fight for everything. Food, bed sheet, wardrobe space. Ah, she can fight ehn. And she always wins,” Fadilah grinned.

She was dressed in a mint green pinafore and a black t-shirt. Staring at her, I discovered that she was quite different from when we were still together. Occupying the same room in our parents’ house. Fadilah had always been a happy lady who bore no harm against anyone. She expressed her feelings and was quick to forgive. But today- despite the wide smile that pulled her lips apart- sadness was evident in her eyes.

Jalil cleared his throat. I wondered what the quiet and introverted brother was about to say. “The day Aunty Khayrah visited us, I thought ‘whoa! I’ve met my type. Someone as shy and quiet as I am.’” He laughed and the rest joined.

Soon, I couldn’t concentrate on what they were saying. I perceived the smell of fried beef and boiled rice that whiffed the air and spotted Funmilayo serving Lukman and his wife a plate of boiled rice and catfish pepper soup. I studied my mother and noticed the amount of weight she had lost over the past few weeks. I remembered the sacrifices and efforts she had made to make me healthy. The hospitals she had visited, drugs she had bought, trips she had taken, traditional doctors she had consulted…all in a bid to find a cure to the illness that was slowly killing her dear daughter.

I glanced at my father and spotted the new strands of silver hairs that filled the upper part of his head. If he had the chance to sacrifice a billion dollars to find a cure to my illness, he would do so. I glanced at Aliyah and she swiftly lowered her face when our eyes met. She had been staring at me, wondering how I was feeling and how it would feel to be in my shoes. I knew she was wondering how her father would fare when I leave. How he would survive and decide to find love again.

Funmilayo was still the same slender and pretty Funmilayo with her suspicious smile and questioning eyes trailing everyone like someone would hurt her any minute. I was glad she found love. I was happy she stopped pestering Taofeek after our marriage. Sometimes, I wonder what it would feel like to have such wonderful twins. I wondered how my child would look if I hadn’t lost it?

“Would you mind a cup of tea?” Lukman whispered as he whipped his head up and glanced at me with a look of pity.

He had been silent since he arrived an hour ago with his wife and baby. Only sipping from his bottle of water and watching everyone with wet eyes.

“No, thank you. Where is Taofeek?”

I had suddenly remembered that I hadn’t seen him in a while. Where did he go to?

“He was meant to bring more cups. I haven’t seen him since then.”

“Thank you,” I stood up and prepared to meet him in the kitchen.

“Should I assist you?” Lukman asked as he noticed the way I had grunted in discomfort after taking a step.

“I’ll be fine. Thank you once again.”

I slowly walked to the kitchen and wondered what could have kept Taofeek that long. Was he washing the dishes? Opening the kitchen door, I gasped in surprise as I spotted him seated on the floor with his face buried in his legs.

“Taofeek,” I whispered, patting his back and sitting beside him.

Taofeek raised his head and I spotted his face soaked with tears and mucus. “Why did we have to invite them over? Everyone is staring at me with sympathetic eyes. I can’t do this, Khayrah. I thought I could…but I can’t. I can’t bear to see you leave. What would become of me? Where else would I source for happiness? We lost our baby…now, I’m about to lose you too.” He wept bitterly as he rested his head on my legs.

Hot tears stung my eyes as I patted his head. “Life is short. Our marriage was meant to be short-lived. But we made every single moment count, didn’t we?”

“Too short, my love. Too short. I want to spend more years with you. I want to be with you forever.” He blew his nose and bawled loudly.

“We will reunite in jannah, in sha ALlaah. I wish I could live longer to spend more time with you and nurture our children…but I’ve always been a grenade. I’ve always counted my last breaths. I’ve been the lady who never forgot about death even for a minute. And I was grateful to find love…to get married to someone who cherished me despite my ailing health…”

Taofeek raised his head and cupped my face in his hands. “Do you think I can handle this? Can I survive without you?”

I hugged him tightly and cried in his arms. “I love you more than you can ever imagine, Taofeek.”

“My love for you is indescribable, Khayrah. You are my heart. What’s life without a heart?”

Taofeek and I remained in each other’s arms for how long it could last. Till my mom entered the kitchen and joined us in the embrace. Till I saw her shed unimaginable tears and knew for sure that she had been crying for years. She had been crying for her daughter to recover and watch her grow old…but what powers do we have? And who are we to question the trails from the Most High?
***
Taofeek
It had been three months since Khayrah left this world and I still could not bring myself to the terms that she was really gone. Even though I had watched the women bath and shroud her in a piece of white cloth, I still couldn’t believe that I would never wake up to the sight of Khayrah lying beside me when I wake up from sleep. Even though I had watched as she was buried, I couldn’t believe that Khayrah had left me in this world.

How could I when our room still smelt like her and her glamorous dresses still littered the wardrobe. How could I imagine she was gone when I still saw flashes of her bright smile when I shut my eyes? I still imagined her vibrant laugh and excited voice filling my ears every single minute of the day. How could I imagine that the woman I had loved the most had breathed her last?

I couldn’t stop thinking about the first time I had chatted Khayrah up on Facebook Messenger and the way we connected so easily. I remembered how fidgety I was on the day I would set eyes on her for the first time. My hands had shivered and my lips quivered in anxiety as I spotted her seated on that red fluffy chair with a straw in her mouth. Behold! She was the most beautiful woman I’d ever set my eyes on. Her whitish eyeballs and thin lips were tempting not to stare at.

She had filled my thoughts in those nights that I couldn’t sleep. I would imagine her laying beside me with her head on my chest, tickling my chest with her whispers. Even when I realized that she was terminally ill, I couldn’t bring myself to let go of the first woman I had fallen in love with.

Our wedding day was the happiest day of my life. We had grinned at each with pure love and affection. As the ceremony proceeded, we couldn’t wait until the moment we had the freedom to fall into each other’s arms and kiss passionately.

The thing about death is that you cannot imagine the extent of the pain it would cause until it happens. I never imagined that my heart would bear such pain that would leave me sleepless at night. How could I have thought that I would spend days locked in the room, bawling my eyes out and wishing that the dead could be raised back to life?

However, I was determined to get through this phase and move forward. Khayrah would want the same, wouldn’t she? She would want me to dust off my pains and worries, and start life afresh, find love again, worship ALlaah like such day would be my last, and seek happiness and contentment. She would want me to make an impact in life and remember that it is shorter than we could ever imagine.

I would do exactly that. I would move out of our house and live in a simple apartment with Aliyah. I would continue to progress in my career and seek more knowledge about the deen.

Cleaning my wet face eyes with the pad of my thumb, I noticed that my phone had been ringing.
5 missed calls from my father? I was dialing his number when his call came in again.

“Asalamu ‘alaykum, dad.” I greeted as I blew my nose and cleaned my face with the sleeve of my shirt.

“Wa’alaykumu salam, Taofeek. Have you been crying?”

“Cry…no. No, I haven’t.” I stuttered as I tried to think of a story to formulate. “I’m preparing a stew for lunch. Onions and pepper, you know.” I gave a burst of awkward laughter.

Father chuckled at the end of the phone. “You still like pepper eh?” He cleared his throat and I knew that he was about to sound serious. “Taofeek, if you need anything. Someone to talk to…just anything. I’m here for you. Always here for you…at least, while I’m still alive. I’ve been in your shoes, son. I know what it feels like to lose a loved one. When your mother died, I was dying bit by bit in pain and loneliness. However, I was able to scale through such a predicament. I know you can too. I know you haven’t been making any stew. I know you’ve been crying and you have every reason to. But please, remember than you have to pick yourself up and move on. Brooding over the past will change nothing. It won’t bring Khayrah back, neither would it improve your present. You just have to stand up and keep moving, okay?”

Tears filled my eyes as I struggled to bring forth words from my lips. “Okay, dad. Thank you.”

“Remember, I’m always here.” He stated before hanging up the call.

Returning the phone to the cabinet, I caught sight of a piece of paper. It looked like the one Khayrah had written on before we went on a short holiday.

Picking it up and scanning through it, I realized that it was the same paper. Only that it had more texts on the other part. Just three words. Three powerful words that made me grin sheepishly.

‘Thank you, Taofeek’ she wrote.

***
“Dad,” Aliyah knocked on the room door.

It was a Thursday and we were preparing for school and work. I wore my belt and walked towards the door, opening it to catch sight of Aliyah adjusting her uniform shirt.

Entering the room, Aliyah stated. “I’ll be late for school. When are we leaving?”

“We’re leaving now. Let me get the keys…”

I was saying when Aliyah cut me. “I have the keys already. Can we visit the new pizza hut on our way home?”

I grinned at her. “How do you know I’ve been craving pizza? Let’s do that this evening… oh, remember we have a date with Khayrah’s parents? Khayrah’s mom said she wants us to taste from her delicious turkey stew before Fadilah finishes it.” I snickered as I watched Aliyah’s face beam in excitement.

“These people will not kill us with food oo! Mama Kawthar had visited yesterday with a cooler of beans and plantain.”

“We’ll definitely add more pounds before the year runs out,” I said, remembering how Khayrah’s father had called me earlier this week to plead that I become of the managers in his company.”

“You are more than a son to me, Taofeek. Please, I want you to manage my company with me.”

“Please, give me a week to think about it.” I had responded before we talked about something else.

I wondered how Aliyah would react to the news. I didn’t know whether to accept his invitation or not.

Grabbing a tie from the wardrobe, I placed it in front of me. “Does this match my shirt?”

Aliyah rolled her eyes. “The shirt is white, dad. It goes with anything.” She said as she adjusted her skirt and wore her wristwatch.

“Yeah, that’s true,” I mumbled as I wore the tie. My thought was clouded with the memory of Khayrah. On a morning like this, when I would ask her about my appearance, Khayrah would tease me for minutes, giving one of her crazy laughs that made her eyes crinkle in delight. Afterwards, she would select the rightful outfit after making me promise not to stare back at women that would admire me for the rest of the day. Now, she was gone…

“Dad!” Aliyah patted my back. “I’ve been talking to you. What are you thinking about?”

Feeling sad and unable to hide my feelings, I slump my arms and sat on the bed. “About Khayrah. It’s hard to stop thinking about her. I’m trying to stop…but it’s hard.” I sobbed on the pillow as Aliyah held my hands and pulled my face to look at her.

“You’ll get over this, in sha ALlaah. With time, all this would be over. But you have a role to play in making this easier for you.”

“Thank you, Aliyah.” I muttered as I stared at the ceiling.

“By the way, one of my classmates. Sumayyah…”

“Your tall classmate that sits beside you? The one that brought sushi to school last month?”

Aliyah gave a mischievous smile. “Yes, yes. She is the same girl I told you lost her father last year, you remember? Her mother asked after you.”

“Why would she ask after me?” I furrowed my brows in confusion. “No, not now Aliyah. Can we leave? We’ll be late if we spend an extra minute here.”

Tears coursed down her cheeks as she pulled me into a tight hug. “I love you, dad…and I’m here to support you as you go through this stage. We are in this together.”

“I love you too, Aliyah. Let’s get going.” We smiled at each other as we walked hand in hand out of the room.

THE END.
A/N: I want to deeply appreciate readers of the series who patiently stood by me till the end of the episodes. Words are insufficient to express my gratitude.

Her Last Breath has become one of my most remarkable and longest series on the blog. We had 26 episodes! Lol.

I hope this story teaches you about the worthlessness of this world and the limited time we have to spend here. I hope you learn that health is truly wealth. I hope you learn to appreciate God for his countless blessings upon us; like the air we breathe and water we drink.

Thank you once again for staying till the end of Her Last Breath. I planned on starting our next series but I think I’ll have to take a break. I don’t want to start a story and stop halfway because of my tight schedule. Once I’ve written some considerable number of episodes, then we can kick start the story.

Please stay safe. Wash your hands and remain indoors.

Ann2012:
Funke!!! Be very careful oooo

Thanks for the update ma'am

You're welcome, sis.

daddio:
Thanks for the update, God bless you more.

Aameen. Thanks for reading!

jenifer007:
Nice update mareeam....well done

Thank you!

Episode Twenty-Five
Taofeek
I opened my sleepy eyes to catch sight of Khayrah smiling at me with a trail of amusement passed across her face. I smiled in return and gazed at her, willing for such a moment to last forever.

That was our daily routine. Returning to sleep after praying subh and supplicating, then waking up to stare at each other’s faces for almost an hour. As Khayrah counted her last breath, I was starting to appreciate several qualities about my wife…qualities I had ignored in the past.

They say you know the importance of a thing after losing it. I appreciated Khayrah more than ever. I wished that I had spent every second of my time with her, showing how much I love and care about her. I wished that I had performed better in the past. But it wasn’t too late. Upon receiving the news of Khayrah’s limited time on earth, I resigned from my place of work and decided to be by Khayrah’s side until she breathes her last.

“Are we going to keep doing this every day?” Khayrah chuckled as she trailed a finger across my chest.

“Every single day, my love,” I said as I sat down and sighed deeply.

Khayrah followed the same course. She rested her head on my chest and held my hand. “What are you thinking about? The time you would wake up to notice my absence?”


“No. I’m just bothered about the way I had treated you in the past. I remembered the day I watched you walk out of my office in despair. I wished I had run after you and professed my love for you,” I said with misty eyes.

Khayrah’s chuckle sent warm tickles to my bare chest. “You shouldn’t. Afterwards, you sent me a message and professed your love for me…”

“But that was after I had watched you leave the office with a tear-filled face. I was scared of losing you. I believed getting married to you and watching you die will break my heart. And you are the first woman that I’ve loved sincerely. I had broken hearts. I was scared that mine would also be shattered into pieces when you die…” I was saying in tears when Khayrah put her arms around me.

“Shh. Don’t say that. I should be the one to blame. I made you fall in love with me. I lied to you. I didn’t disclose my health condition before the start of our relationship.”

“You know, Khayrah. I feel your condition is a punishment for the atrocities I had committed in the past...” I was saying when she continued.

“I’m also at fault for walking out on you that day. When you revealed your past, I felt we couldn’t continue with the relationship. I walked out on you and told you we couldn’t get married. I had forgotten that my case was worse. That I had cancer.”

My forehead creased with a frown as I stared around the room- the milk-coloured wardrobe, a white sofa that rested by the wall, the lilac curtains that billowed in the breeze. Khayrah, who was a fan of white colour, had carefully selected the theme for our room. I gazed at the room Khayrah and I had shared and wondered if I could remain there after everything becomes over- after she leaves the world.

“Let’s stop blaming ourselves with events that happened in the past. We should dwell on the present. Speaking of the present, are you prepared for our trip to the beach resort?”

Khayrah’s face beamed in excitement as she sprang up from the bed. “We’ve packed our bags and informed the cab driver to pick us up before 5:00 pm. Anything else?” she asked, staring at our luggage was that stationed beside the wardrobe.

I laughed loudly. “I mean, are you mentally prepared?”

“Why wouldn’t I be? I am mentally prepared. It would be fun, my love.” Khayrah yelled as she hurried to the wardrobe.

Since we decided to spend our days together, we wrote down daily plans about fruitful things to engage in before the end of the day- such as making noodles and egg for breakfast, watching romantic comedies until late at night, binge-watching our favourite series along with a bowl of popcorn and soda drinks. We had also decided to visit a beach resort and spend some intimate time together.

Khayrah had suggested that we travel to Zanzibar, Tanzania, but the doctor was insistent that we remained closer. We opted for a lovely adventurous place in Lagos- Le Champagne Tropicanna.

“What are you looking for?”

Khayrah frowned as she searched her closet furiously. “Sexier pieces of clothing. I doubt the ones I have in the luggage.”

I gave a staccato of laughter. “We can always stop by a shop on our way there to purchase sexier outfits. And who says those clothes in the luggage isn’t hot?”

I was saying when a honk was heard outside the gate. “We aren’t expecting anyone.”

Khayrah gave a sly grin. “Well, I am. It’s a surprise!”

“What kind of surprise?”

“A surprise breakfast. Love is strengthened when couples surprise each other. Someone would deliver breakfast we would never forget. One minute!” Khayrah said in excitement as she grabbed her hijab. “I’ll be back.”

I smiled as I watched her leave and imagined how wonderful our stay at the beach resort would turn out. My phone chimed with new notification and I grabbed it from the bed stand. The notification was from Facebook.

‘You and Khayrah Raqeeb became friends 1 year ago….’

I grinned widely as I stared at the screen and recalled how I had met my soulmate through Facebook. Who could have thought that I would meet my future wife on such a platform?

“Come over to the living room, my love. There’s a surprise here!” Khayrah yelled from the living room.

“Okay,” I sprang up from the bed and was walking towards the door when a white sheet paper caught my eyes. Some words had been scribbled and it was obvious that it was Khayrah’s handwriting.

Taking hold of the paper, I sighed deeply and started to read.

‘I’m not a fan of diaries…will never be one. But I have to write this down. My greatest accomplishment. You see, when I was healthy, I thought I would find love and get admirers like my sister. I thought my prince charming would sweep me off my feet and shower me with a bouquet of red roses. But it didn’t happen. Guess what? It happened when I had cancer! Yes, when I became terminally ill, I found my prince charming. Tall, dark, crazily handsome, religious, intelligent…I found my prince charming when I became sick. Wow! That’s my greatest accomplishment.’

“When are you coming? The food will get cold oo!” She called from the living room.

“Give me a second,” I yelled in return as I carefully placed the sheet where I had met it and walked out of the room.
***
The surprise breakfast was a delight. Khayrah had placed a large tray on the rug and in it contained several delicacies of food. Coconut rice, spaghetti, fish sauce, fruit juice, coffee, pear, watermelon…just name it.

I stared at Khayrah and the large tray that glittered with sumptuous meals in admiration. “How did you manage to plan all these?”

A flicker of amusement passed across her face. “Don’t ask questions. Sit down and start digging.”

“Right,” I muttered as I sat at the other end of the tray and served my meal into a plate. “But we can’t even finish half of this.”

“Shh.” She placed a finger across her lips and I smiled in return, eating silently and savouring the taste of the meal.

Khayrah and I ate in silence and I wished that it would last forever. We, sitting side by side and eating together. I wished that we could live together…but that was impossible.

A bang on our gate drifted me back to reality. Khayrah and I exchanged looks as we wondered who would be knocking.

“I’m guessing it would be the estate’s women,” Khayrah said as she stood up.

“Did they inform you about visiting?”

“No, but I guessed right. I knew we’d have someone to complete our breakfast,” she laughed and I joined.

“I’ll go and take my bath. We never can tell when they’ll leave,” I stated.

“I’ll explain to them that we have to leave soon,” Khayrah replied as she opened the entrance door.
***
“Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Adewale,” the petite receptionist smiled at us as we entered the building.

“Thank you,” we grinned cheerfully as we approached the counter hand in hand.

“John will show you to your room. Have a nice honeymoon,” the lady smiled at us.

Khayrah stifled a snort of laughter. “Honeymoon? Anyway, thank you.” She said as we tailed the tall man that led to our house.

Thanking him and surveying the 5-star room that looked exquisite, Khayrah jumped on the bed and grinned in excitement. “This is so lovely. This will be fun.”

I placed the luggage beside the bed and pulled off my shirt. “More fun than you can ever imagine. You and I alone,” I winked at her as I opened the luggage. “Maybe we should switch off our phones during this period. We don’t want anything to distract us. What do you think?” I asked as I selected a simple t-shirt to wear.

Whipping my head to check why Khayrah hadn’t responded to my question, I was shocked to see her looking dazedly up at my face with my phone in her hand. “Who is Funke?”

“I...” I was saying when she cut me off.

“Who is she and what is this I’m reading?” Khayrah’s face flamed as she read the message that popped up on my screen.

‘I heard your wife will be dying soon. I know you’ll want to get married again. I’m still single and available.’ –Funke.

I cleared my throat and walked over to the bed to sit beside her. Tears stung her eyes as she tried to avoid my gaze.

“Do you trust me?” I asked, pulling her face to mine and watching as the tears started to flow freely down her cheeks. “My love, do you trust me?”

“I do,” she replied as she hugged me and cried in my arms.

We remained in the same position for minutes, wondering what life had in store for us and when our marriage will end. I wished our moment together could last forever…but it wouldn’t.

Khayrah blew her nose as she pulled away from me. Surprisingly, her face flickered with a smile. “Let’s go shower.”

“Okay,” I stated as I grabbed the towels on the bed and handed one to her.