<p> </p><p>Alhaji Lawal is someone who does not care about adhering to the principles of Islam or following the law. He lives his life based on his own desires, believing that money will solve all problems. He no longer bothers about Zainabu. Feeling the silence, Maman Bushira peeks into the room and asks, “Are you vomiting again?” Zainabu nods. Maman Bushira helps her get up and leads her to the bathroom, urging her to wash up. She then cleans the bed and brings her some breakfast, though Zainabu only manages to sip some kunu reluctantly.</p><p>Zainabu looks at her and asks, “Maman Bushira, why did you say someone is here for me?” Maman Bushira replies, “The signs suggest that you’re pregnant, don’t they?” Zainabu’s eyes widen, “I didn’t know that.” Maman Bushira insists, “It seems so. When was your last period? Have you skipped prayers because of it?” Zainabu shyly lowers her head and replies, “Since five days before my wedding.” Maman Bushira confirms, “It must be pregnancy. Alhaji hates children. You’ll face a lot of maltreatment.”</p><p>Zainabu retorts, “Besides this mistreatment, what else can he do to me?” Maman Bushira responds, “A lot more! My advice is, if he asks if you’re pregnant, deny it and say it’s just stress. Otherwise, he’ll force you to terminate the pregnancy.” Zainabu is shocked, “Why would I lie?” Maman Bushira warns, “Because he’ll be overjoyed if you miscarry. Worse, he’ll give you unsafe abortion drugs, and that might kill you, as it did one of his former wives.”</p><p>Zainabu cries, “If I hide it and he finds out at the hospital, what then?” Maman Bushira reassures her, “He won’t take you to a hospital. He doesn’t care about his wives' health. Even buying medicine like Panadol is left to you.” This makes Zainabu cry even more.</p><p>The next day, she forces herself to comply with Alhaji’s demands, showing him affection to win his favor. He’s pleased and gives her 5,000 naira, promising to visit her room at night. She realizes the challenges of her marriage—continuous demands from her husband without rest. She reflects, feeling both physically and emotionally exhausted.</p><p>Later, when her mother and her friend visit, Zainabu tells them about her suspected pregnancy and how Alhaji might react. Her mother advises her to follow her co-wife’s advice to win his favor and save money for the baby. But her mother’s friend suggests using herbs to terminate the pregnancy. Zainabu cries, refusing to endanger her life, recalling the story of Alhaji’s late wife. Her mother dismisses her fears, insisting the pregnancy must go.</p><p>Later, when Alhaji notices her distress, he shows concern. She uses the opportunity to ask for medical help, but he dismisses it, offering his own solutions instead. She complies out of fear but is determined to protect herself and her baby.</p><p>The narrative intertwines Zainabu’s challenges with Ismail’s struggles as he cares for Mimi, a girl severely injured in an accident. Ismail grapples with guilt, fear, and responsibility, praying for her recovery. The story highlights the weight of societal expectations, marital challenges, and the struggle for self-preservation amidst adversity.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
