<p> </p><p>As soon as Abbah felt defeated, he got up, picked up the kettle, and performed ablution. He didn’t stay long before returning and sitting near Uwar Gwarama. Uwar Gwarama stared at Abbah with an open mouth before speaking:</p><p>"Honestly, Malam, I now believe what Uwani said about your heart being weak when it comes to women. Otherwise, why wouldn’t you stand firm regarding that boy’s fortune? You didn’t even bother to find out why he dismissed you but just returned home defeated. Well, Malam, I’m warning you now—you’re going back because I refuse to be burdened with a huge responsibility alongside my children just because of your lack of effort. You’ll either go back and find out what happened or deal with it yourself. I can’t afford to feed someone who refuses to make progress. Do you think I can endure such a life? No way. Even Uwarsu (their mother) stopped working, claiming her children must focus on their education. Now, what good has education brought them? Let’s see how their education will benefit them in the end, even though I never believed in formal education to begin with. I refuse to let my children bring shame upon me. If that’s what you want, count me out."</p><p>As Uwar Gwarama finished venting, Abbah didn’t respond. He only ran his hand over his head and said, "At least help me with food, so I can find some peace in my heart."</p><p>Uwar Gwarama shot him a scornful look. Abbah quickly stood up and smiled, saying, "Alright, I’ll go."</p><p>"You’d better!"</p><p>Abbah started walking. At the same time, a young woman, who couldn’t be older than 42, entered with a greeting. Neither Uwar Gwarama nor Abbah answered her, so she headed to her room.</p><p>Inside, Khadija was braiding Inteesar’s hair. As soon as she saw the woman, she rushed to hug her and said, "Welcome back, Ummah."</p><p>Ummah smiled and embraced both Khadija and Inteesar warmly, saying, "You two want to break me, right? Let me sit down first."</p><p>They laughed and sat down together. Inteesar asked, "How’s Halima?"</p><p>"They send their regards," Ummah replied.</p><p>Excitedly, Khadija said, "Ummah, do you know something amazing happened to us?"</p><p>Smiling, Ummah asked, "What’s the good news, Auta? I can see you’re so happy."</p><p>Inteesar looked at her curiously, not knowing what Khadija was referring to. Khadija enthusiastically replied, "Ummah, Abbah has been fired from his job! Isn’t that great news?"</p><p>Ummah’s face fell, and she frowned at Khadija. "What’s wrong with you? How can you be happy about your father losing his job? Didn’t all my advice sink into your ears? He’s your father, no matter what. You shouldn’t celebrate his misfortune."</p><p>"But, Ummah—"</p><p>Ummah cut her off. "That’s enough! In life, patience is key. Without it, no one can succeed. Everything that happens is by Allah’s decree, and we must endure. Patience always brings rewards."</p><p>As Ummah was talking, Uwar Gwarama opened the door angrily and said, "Go wash my clothes!"</p><p>She left without waiting for a response. Ummah turned to Inteesar and said, "Go and help her."</p><p>"Okay."</p><p>Khadija pouted and said, "Honestly, Ummah, why is it always Aunty who has to do everything? What about Bilki and Ruqayya? Is it because she’s the obedient one in this house?"</p><p>"Didn’t you hear the advice I just gave you, or is it that your ears are made of stone?"</p><p>Inteesar went outside, and Khadija followed her. Together, they washed clothes, including Bilki and Ruqayya’s items—even their underwear. Inteesar diligently washed everything.</p><p>Meanwhile, Abdallah lay on a sofa, eyes closed as if asleep. He opened his heavy eyes, his face full of worry. He got up, opened his wardrobe, picked out some nice clothes, and sprayed himself with perfume. Grabbing his phones, he left.</p><p>As he descended the stairs, fastening a Gucci watch, someone’s eyes followed him without blinking until he reached the bottom. Haneefa, dressed in revealing English wear, smiled flirtatiously. "Morning, sweetheart," she said.</p><p>Abdallah barely glanced at her and replied coldly, "Fine. How about you?"</p><p>"All good," she said.</p><p>He walked out without further conversation and headed to Granny’s section, where he found his parents seated. Greeting them softly, Granny snapped, "I didn’t cook for you today. Eat your mother’s food, not mine!"</p><p>Mummy laughed and said, "Don’t mind her, Son. I’ll serve you food."</p><p>Abdallah smiled faintly and greeted his father, "Good morning, Abbih."</p><p>"Good morning, Son. How was your night?"</p><p>"Fine, thank you."</p><p>Abbih got up. "I have a meeting to attend. Take care."</p><p>"Safe journey," Mummy and Abdallah replied in unison.</p><p>Once the parents left, Granny grumbled, "I’ll find out what’s wrong with my grandson. Something doesn’t seem right."</p><p>Later, Abdallah visited Dr. Muhseen, received medication, and left quietly. The doctor sighed, saying, "May Allah help Abdallah through this trial."</p><p>By evening, Abdallah was in deep thought until Ahmad interrupted him, urging him to share his worries. Abdallah narrated his issue with Inteesar. Ahmad suggested a plan, and Abdallah finally smiled. They laughed and continued discussing other matters. Moments later, Ahmad’s secretary entered with an older man.</p>
