BEFORE THIRTY Episode 23

BEFORE THIRTY

Episode 23:

I am stupefied is an understatement as I am unable to digest what he just gushed. 

“What love? He is just like a brother. To be frank with you,  I can’t really decipher what you mean by your last statement,” I pick my bag up, dusting the bottom.

“He loves you and it’s genuine. He had plans of proposing but not after settling his debts. He was still on it when he found out you have someone else. Though, it’s of no use saying this now as the date for your nikkah might be been decided upon,” he says shrugging.

“Yes, you are right. It’s obviously of no use. Abd’ Salām, I want to request something from you, hopefully you will grant me.”

“I will be happy if It’s within my reach,” he scrunches his brows.

“Sure, it is. I want to implore you to keep this away from Fawzaan. He mustn’t know we met. I am pleading for Allah’s sake.”

“I can understand and I think it’s the best thing to do. Telling brother Fawzaan will not turn the hands of time. Nothing could be done to change the past.”

I appreciate him for his words of wisdom and understanding. I check through my purse and bring out one thousand naira to gift him. He turns it down initially but accepts after much persuasion. He is about to leave when I remember the chicken and chips Naheemah ordered was delivered. If he didn’t show up at his joint yesterday how did he do it? 

“Abd’Salām, one more thing. My friend told me you delivered her order, declining the payment. Who made the fries?”

“It was him. He made it at home and requested me deliver it without collecting the payment. More reason why he delayed his movement till this morning.”

“You mean, he left this morning?”

“Yes, ma.”

“Thanks so much. I really appreciate this. We’ll see some other time, in shâ Allah. 

“Alright ma. Good bye ma.”

Getting to my car, I heave a long sigh ruminating about the new discovery. Isn’t it weird? Fawzaan is in love with me. How did that happen? Could this be true? Hahaha.. I can’t believe this. Now all his parables and strange behaviors are now seemingly clear to me. I don’t know what’s going on anymore. He resigned because of me and didn’t even think of informing me before leaving? Even if he would give the excuse of changing his location. I’m sorry Fawzaan, I do not feel the same way about you. Infact, I have never thought or dreamt about you being my man. Finding out that my relationship between me and Luqman as prospective couple didn’t work out would only skyrocket your hopes of which I don’t want. Hence, for keeping it from Abd’Salām. I purposely didn’t tell the young man that I am back being single. 

Time flies fast. The week runs out so fast such that my worries are melting along with it, sooner than I had expected. My job is now my best friend. I devout all my time by resuming early and closing late to the GM’s surprise. Burying my head in office work makes me forget sad incidents that are taking toll on my heart. My matter isn’t that worse, I think. Nonetheless, I still have a lot to be grateful of even if one thing I desire to have isn’t clicking. My wish and aspiration is getting married before thirty but now that it seems unachievable, I should rather accept my faith, finding succor in what I have already.

It’s another Sunday. I am home, going through a manuscript which will be presented tomorrow on my laptop, Naheemah’s message comes in..

“Assalam Alaykum. I hope you are fine babe? Kindly send the address of Fawzaan’s joint. I want to buy from him. Since he turned down the payment for that day own, I would like to get it from him myself.” she sends.

My mind suddenly goes out to him. I pray he gets over the issues bothering him soon.. Reading through the message, I swiftly reply.

“He isn’t at his joint today, sis. He left for Abeokuta since last week.” 

“SubhanaLlah! What happened? What about his job?”

“My dear, we’ll discuss further when you get back. It’s a long story, sis,” I message again. 

Immediately she returns, she bombards me with heap of questions on why Fawzaan left. I stay silent for a while thinking about where to start from. I clear my throat and shut down my laptop to give her full attention since she looks so disturbed than one could imagine. 

“Fawzaan resigned from the company job.  I got to know on Monday when after seeing a new cleaner working. He has been replaced with a woman,” I reply, sipping the coffee that has been keeping my company.

“But why? And he didn’t inform you despite being confidants?”

“Well, I won’t say I didn’t know why because I do. Apparently, I found his friend’s brother who was assisting him with his business yesterday at the supermarket’s premises. After engaging him, I got to know I was the reason why he left. He couldn’t bear to see me being married to someone else because he loves me,” I burst into an heavy laughter while my friend watches me utterly surprise.

“He is in love with you?”

“So, I heard. Little wonder he acted strange the day brother Luqman came to see me at my work place and the day I was informing him of the introduction ceremony.. Though, I could sense something was wrong with him but couldn’t say and to my bedazzlement, he was mentioning something like his withered dreams and wishes. The funny aspect of it was me praying his dreams coming true oblivious of the fact that I was the dream in entirety.”

“Really? This is wowing, I must say. You know I had actually wanted to ask what sort of relationship existed between you both from the way you talk about him and the spark in your eyes whenever you mention him but I didn’t want to be wrong again just as I was at the time of Yunus and couple with the fact that brother Luqman also comes into the picture. So, what do you think about this?”

“Nothing..  What more do I have to think about? Darling sis, the relationship you mentioned a while ago was just a platonic one, nothing more. It just happened that I like him for being an hardworking person and the type that needs help and I really appreciate him for his contribution to a project I head some time ago. That’s all.”

“Are you saying you ain’t giving this a chance? ”

“A chance? A man younger than me in age? It doesn’t sound well, my dear. I want a matured man for husband.”

“Or,  because he was a cleaner?” she smiles wryly.

“You know that’s not true. This is one of the reasons why I didn’t tell you this. I am not desperate to get married. Fawzaan is not someone I see that way. I can’t even imagine it. He’s a young man who deserves a younger woman and not me.”

“Love doesn’t work that way, you know. My dear, it seems you are turning away from the truth; probably because of what just happened. Stop being hard on yourself. Yes, I know how much you love brother Luqman but he turns out as your brother. Won’t you move on? You should stop confusing yourself. If Fawzaan loves you, that’s what he desires. He alone knows why he is attracted to you. And stop making him loving you as taboo.”

“But wait a minute, why do I feel he sent you to appeal on his behalf? Someone you haven’t met or aware of his character. It’s better we just peg this discussion because it’s heading no where,” I straighten up and walk to the kitchen to get more coffee.

“I pray it doesn’t get late before you understand the reality,” her voice trails me behind while I thumb my nose and wave my hands in the air to discard her taunting prayers.

Two days after, which is a Tuesday. I am engrossed in my office work as usual when Rahmah’s call comes in. I can’t help but smile as I hear my little angel’s tiny voice saying the tesleem.

“Waalaykum Salam, my doll. How are you doing today?” I ask on the phone.

“Better than yesterday, big sis.”

“How is mum doing too?”

“She’s absolutely fine.... Anti Fareedah, you won’t believe who I saw today oo Ehh hh.. ”

“Who was that?”

“You remember a nurse at the hospital where bro Luqman was admitted? A fair nurse who was somehow kinder and nicer to him than the rest. I was at the secretariat today to meet him. The day he was discharged from the hospital, I was on phone with brother Ismail asking him where to get a good personal computer. So brother Luqman chips in that he has a friend who sells good products at affordable price. He requested me to come here so, we can go together to computer village to get one. When I got there, I put him through call at the entrance. The most interesting part of this is the moment he gets to where I was, the nurse also showed up. She said she was about to dial his phone number when she us. We were both surprised to see him alongside her nephew. She said she came to check on him and also know inquire about his health. Big sis, I was just beaming when she mentioned her name to be Rahmah too. Hahaha! I think she loves him. It was so clear like a see through glass.”

“Really? I was also privileged to see some signs while I went there to check on him. But if your brother was equally surprised to see her, how did she know his place of work?”

“She said it was brother Luqman’s mum that gave her.”

“I see... The poor woman must have sensed her feelings towards him and hopeful this would heal his wound faster. If there’s goodness in their union, may Allah make it easy and shower His blessings upon it..”

“Where are you now?”

“At the masjid. I am waiting for them to conclude with their prayers as I am off salat at the moment. ”

“Okay, then. And I hope mami is aware of your movement?”

“Yes, she is. I even phoned her on my arrival. He greeted her on phone too and she was very happy to hear his voice. Big sis, I am happy to have him as our big brother. His heart is pure.. May Allah grant both you the best in both worlds.”

“Aameen and you too.”

“Alright ma. I will call you later, in sha Allah.”

We end the call while I also straighten up to say my zhur prayers.

I pray this works out. I really felt sorry for him that day. He deserves all happiness in the world. 

A week later, I decide to put call through him to thank him on behalf of my sister. And It’s even a while since we talked. 

“Assalam Alaykum WaramatuLlah, sir.”

“Waalaykum Salam WaramatuLlah. Fareedah, how is everyone and everything? I hope you ain’t cross with me for not checking on you. I have been very busy lately.”

“Cross with you? Of course not. I know you’ve been busy with nurse Rahmah.” I burst out laughing.

“You are not serious. And where is that coming from? Oh, I see, Rahmah told you right?”

“Tell me what? You think I didn’t see her giving you fruits with her endearing and beautiful smiles at the hospital when I went there to visit you?”

“So, she told you her name too?”

“Leave that joor... The fact is I know now. BarakaLlahu fee. I pray it’s for the best and thanks for buying P.C for Rahmah. She was surprised you made the payment. JazakaLlahu kayran.

“Aameen wa anti. That was nothing. And don’t forget she’s also my sister. To the nurse you mentioned, it was my mum who told her where I work and my phone digits. I couldn’t believe it when I saw her that day. I won’t deny the fact I saw those green lights she was emitting at the hospital but I ignore because I wasn’t interested. When i phoned my mum to know why she gave her the descriotion of my working place. She told me they both had a conversation where she confessed she has developed some feelings for me. So, mum said she like for me and that I should give it a though.  Can’t you see she’s very much younger than I am? I think I like matured women. ”

“She’s young doesn’t mean she isn’t matured. I like her for being bold and courageous. She knows what she want. Why don’t you heed mum’s advice?”

“I need to clear my head first. I don’t want another heartbreak and wouldn’t want to give her false hopes. Once I realise we are on the same page; our feelings are the the same, I will go for her. I don’t want to use her to heal my wound.”

“Aww! I can understand. But don’t hesitate to pray over it.”

“In shâ Allah. So how far about that guy at your work place? Ehmm.... Fawaz or Fawzaan? He must be so happy I am out of the way by now,” he laughs.

“You still remember this But honestly, I never believed you were right about his feelings for me not until it was confirmed by his friend’s brother assisting him with his business. Resuming work on Monday, I learnt he resigned and has been replaced. I was beghasted as to why until I got answers from the young man that he actually left because of me. He couldn’t withstand the pains and was mapping out how to propose before you showed up here. Well, sadly, I do not feel the same way about him.”

“Wow. That’s quite emotional. I can’t understand what he must be going through. But what is stopping you from feeling the same way as you trust him like a brother.”

“He is younger than me. I want an older man.”

“That’s funny. It seems we are in the same boat. But be told, you don’t look it. You both will complement each other. I’m certain if he’s destined to be your husband, you will surely cross path again. And once it  happens, please give it a trial. I will follow your advice on Rahmah as you said. You aso should heed my advice okay?”

“Alright, sir. Salute!” I reply with laughter. 

-----------------&&&----------------

It’s been four months now since we found our brother Luqman is my father’s eldest child. His addition to our family has been nothing but blessings. As Allah Has destined, the relationship between him and nurse Rahmah works out. Their wedding ceremony has been decided to take place next week. 

Lots of preparations had taken place. Our mothers worked hand in hand to ensure everything was in place. Family and friends living far and near has notified and everyone looks forward to that day.

Today which is a Sunday, solemnization of the holy matrimony takes place between Luqman and Rahmah as they are both pronounced as husband and wife. It’s a dream come true for the couple and also everyone of us. On my way back from the masjid after asr prayers, I hear a farmiliar voice calls out my name with a soft voice.

 

“Fareedah,” he calls.

I look back to find him.

“Fawzaan.”

He is the one. My eyes couldn’t have mistaken a wrong person for him.. For minutes, we both stare at each other.

I gape at him, gulping my throat. My heart runs marathons. I realise I have missed him so much. I stare at him, awestruck.

“Yes, It’s me. Longest time. ”

“You are not happy to see me?”

I didn’t say a word but avert my eyes away from him.

“You are not replying.”

“Happy that you resigned without informing me? Happy that you left without a good bye? What should I be happy of? Go ahead and talk. I am so angry at you if you care to know. You ain’t even bothered about my feelings, do you? I was so worried but It’s obvious It’s a successful plan isn’t it? AlhamduliLlah, you are fine. Can I go now?”

“I’m sorry forgive me for that. I was just helpless. I couldn’t think of any other way... Pardon my mistakes for Allah’s sake. ”

“Alright. I am not angry anymore. How come you are here. Are you here for the ceremony too because I can see the outfit you wear is a uniform fabric.”

“Yes. I came for the ceremony too. The bride’s elder brother is a close friend. And don’t forget this is Abeokuta where my mum lives.”

“Oh, Maa sha Allah. BarakaLlahu fee.”

My phone starts ringing. It is from Zulaykhah. She wants to inquire where I am. She left a while ago to see her mother whose house is a stone throw. Her mother relocated to Abeokuta when her eldest son completed the house in her name. I pick the call to tell her the spot I am.  Having done receiving the call, Fawzaan’s voice startles me.

“There is more to talk about. Isn’t the groom of the day the same brother I saw you with at the company? I mean, the one you were to get married to?”

“Yes, he is.”

“And?”

“And what?”

“Fareedah free me from this, I beg you. What’s going on? Don’t tell me this is his second marriage because it doesn’t look it.”

“How does a second marriage looks,” I probe further.

“Why are you doing this to me? Just speak up Fareedah or else you are not leaving here,” he is sweating by now.

“I am not leaving? What a threat. Anyway, none of the couple have been married before. They are each other’s firsts. Can I go now?”

“You broke up? And you also attended his marriage? What exactly happened?”

“Why probing me? How is it your business? If you could leave without a word why do I have to start spilling everything about my life to you.”

“Just stop this Fareedah! Stop it already! Stop acting this way for the sake of the Almighty. Haven’t you punished me enough? How come you still don’t understand the bold handwriting on the wall? I have apologised for my actions what else do you want me to do? Okay, I am sorry once again for leaving without notification. What else should I have done? I don’t want to look like an opportunist and couple with the fact I was owing you. I don’t want you feel like I am taking advantage of the situation. I love you Fareedah. I do with all my heart. If only you know how much I have been hurting since I have left Ibadan. I love you so much even more than my life,” he confesses with a teary face. 

And I didn’t realise when I tear up too. It’s hard for me to see him this emotional.