<p>Umma and Abba heard about Nani Oummana's kindness and generosity from Aisha. She brought out the gifts Oummana had given her, including a traditional gown, three large bottles of perfume, three luxurious fabrics, and a bundle of Filtex material for Abba Aisha and Baba Barau.</p><p>That evening, Siddiqa stayed in her mother's room until late, chatting as if tomorrow was the day Petel (Aisha) would leave, even though there were six days left. Hamma confirmed to Abba Aisha that once they left, they wouldn’t return for a long while, as their annual leave, with extensions, had ended.</p><p>Around midnight, Siddiqa finished her preparations for bed. Hamma called her, and despite being sleepy, she answered with a tired voice, "Hamma, haven’t you slept yet?" He replied, "I can’t sleep, Baby… I’m missing that yogurt drink with milk…" Aisha closed her eyes, feeling shy as if Hamma were watching her, recalling the incident earlier that kept replaying in her mind. Fresh feelings lingered as Hamma said, "Baby, you know what?" She shook her head as though he were in front of her.</p><p>Hamma continued, “I have never felt such eagerness in my life as I feel for the day you come back to me. I will patiently wait for you and your annoying JAMB. The day you return will mark the beginning of our life together. You know, our life in Argentina has been nothing but an introduction to AISHA in the lonely, pitiful life of KEHINDE. I have reserved that day for you, as I’ve reserved myself for 43 years waiting for this moment. Please, Baby, give me all the strength and support I need, okay?”</p><p>Aisha felt overwhelmed with shyness. Prince continued charming her with sweet words, describing the love he had been preparing for her since the day she came into his life. She realized that Ishaq's words, which she had once cherished, paled in comparison. His empty compliments couldn't move her the way Prince’s heartfelt words did. She felt nervous about the day Prince repeatedly talked about, without him knowing he was making her anxious.</p><p>That night, Hamma revealed deep secrets. He told her that throughout his 43 years of life, he had never been intimate with anyone, saving himself for her, his dream wife. A hopeless romantic, he had waited for his true love and thanked the Almighty Lord for bringing her into his life. (Despite Haseenah’s attempts to lead him astray, Kehinde never went beyond a lengthy kiss with her, and he deeply regretted even that, constantly seeking forgiveness). He believed there was no love as peaceful, fulfilling, and blissful as the love in a Sunnah marriage.</p><p>With Prince's soothing voice lulling her, Aisha fell asleep on the phone. He noticed her breathing change and realized she was asleep, leaving him talking to himself. He had no choice but to hang up and sleep, but that night, Prince had one of the most restless nights of his life.</p><p>Firdaus had once teased Nenne about Aisha’s lefe (bridal gift), and Nenne hadn’t forgotten. After they returned to Lagos, Nenne called Hamma Abdulrasheed and said, "Regarding Aisha’s lefe, I handled the wedding and its expenses, but the lefe, a Hausa-Fulani tradition, is your responsibility. You know the effort involved in marriage better than anyone." Prince smiled and replied, "Nenne, if you had mentioned this earlier, it would’ve been done already. How much should I allocate?" Nenne said, “A substantial amount, so everything can be prepared within three days before Aisha leaves Gombe.”</p><p>Although Aisha wasn’t materialistic, Prince knew Nenne wouldn’t rest until everything was perfect. He told her to use his black card, which had no spending limit, assuring her that he’d provide his dollar card if necessary. Nenne appreciated his dedication.</p><p>By Friday, Taiwo brought the lefe to Gombe. Nani Oummana sent someone to deliver it to Aisha’s house, accompanied by Taiwo and a relative. Taiwo, feeling guilty, visited Aisha’s room. She shared news about Kiki’s upcoming visit and engagement to Tosin, trying to shift focus to cheerful matters.</p><p>Haj. Zainab wasn’t informed about the lefe, as Nenne didn’t want to trouble her. Nonetheless, she sent Sunusi to help with the delivery. The family celebrated with joy and gratitude.</p><p>Umma took special care of Aisha, preparing her for her new journey. She arranged traditional beauty treatments, including halawa, dilka with henna designs, and intricate braiding. Aisha emerged glowing, embodying the essence of a radiant bride.</p><p>On Saturday, Malam Yunus personally took Aisha to her JAMB exam, staying until she completed it. That night, they bid farewell to Umma, sharing heartfelt conversations and shedding tears. On Sunday, Taiwo and Malam Buhari picked her up for the trip to Lagos.</p><p>In Lagos, Nenne warmly welcomed them with Yoruba dishes and fresh juices. She postponed Aisha’s flight to Qatar to align with their Umrah trip, ensuring they traveled together. Prince had meticulously planned everything, waiting to reunite with his beloved Aisha.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
