<p> </p><hr><p>In this town, the chief and his people gathered to speak against Abu, accusing him harshly and saying, “Didn't you just finish mistreating her with the heavy labor you subjected her to? After all the suffering she endured from a young age, turning into nothing more than a servant in this house.”</p><p>Ahmad replied, “You don’t need to argue anymore; we are here to take her with us.”</p><p>Then one of the men, Bello Madu, spoke, saying, “We live close by in a nearby town, and our connection is just across the border. I work as a customs officer at the border, so I will bring Hanne to visit you occasionally.”</p><p>Ahmad interjected, “Enough of your excuses; the chief and the people have already given us permission to take her. Who else would dare object, insisting Hanne should stay and starve here?”</p><p>Hanne’s stepmother, Iya Abu, was filled with bitterness, seeing Hanne finally have a chance to escape her hardships and find peace. She had hoped that after throwing her out, Hanne would have nowhere to go and would remain under her thumb.</p><p>And so, Ahmad and his friend Bello Madu bid farewell to the chief and his people, packed Hanne’s belongings, and left with her. Hanne wrapped her scarf tightly, hugged Iya Salmai goodbye amidst tears, and left with her uncle.</p><p>They arrived in Dashi late at night and stayed at Ahmad’s house. Ahmad had one wife and two children. His wife, Hajir, was also a widow. Hajir welcomed Hanne warmly, offering her water to drink and preparing a meal for her. Hanne ate the food gratefully, feeling as though she had never eaten anything so delicious. She later performed ablution, prayed, bathed, and went to sleep.</p><p>Hajir quickly grew fond of Hanne, noticing their similarities in age. She stayed by Hanne’s side until she fell asleep, then turned off the light and left to her own room.</p><p>The next morning, Hanne woke up at the call for dawn prayers. After praying, she dozed off again until midday. When she woke up, she found an array of food laid out before her, brought by Hajir and other relatives who had heard of her arrival. Hanne felt overwhelming joy, grateful for the love and care she was receiving, a stark contrast to her previous life.</p><p>Family members and neighbors began visiting to welcome Hanne, some even bringing gifts. They explained to her that their lineage was of Azbinawa (Tuareg) descent from Agadez. However, Hanne noticed that most of her relatives were poor, living modest lives as herders or farmers.</p><p>Ahmad, her uncle, was slightly better off as a primary school teacher, earning a modest income. His house had three rooms and a simple kitchen outside. Despite the modesty, Hanne was thankful for the kindness and care she now received, seeing this new life as a blessing compared to her former hardships.</p><p>Hanne and Hajir became very close, sharing stories and laughter. Gradually, Hanne opened up to Hajir about her past, including her deep love for Haisam and the pain of their separation. Hajir sympathized with her and encouraged her to accept fate and trust God’s plan.</p><p>One day, after about a month of Hanne’s stay, Ahmad and other family elders called her for a meeting. After greeting them respectfully, she sat quietly in a corner. Baba Sha’aibu addressed her, saying, “Hanne, as your elders, we’ve discussed and agreed that it’s time for you to get married. It’s not proper for you to remain unmarried.”</p><p>Hanne’s heart sank at the mention of marriage. In shock, she responded, “Who will I marry? I have no one here, and no one has shown interest in me.”</p><p>They all laughed, and Ahmad explained, “Hanne, rest assured, several suitors have come forward asking for your hand in marriage. We’ve carefully considered and chosen the most suitable one for you—a man of integrity, good character, and stability. That man is Bello Madu, my close friend and a customs officer. What do you think?”</p><p>Hanne’s heart broke further. She respected Bello Madu deeply but could not imagine loving anyone else after Haisam. However, she hid her feelings, nodded, and said, “I trust your decision. I will marry whoever you choose for me.”</p><p>The elders praised her obedience and gave her their blessings. Ahmad announced that the wedding would take place in a month. Although Hanne tried to appear composed, she cried silently, mourning the love she lost and dreading the future.</p><p>As preparations began, Bello Madu frequently visited, expressing his happiness and affection for Hanne. Despite her inner turmoil, Hanne maintained a polite and respectful demeanor. Hajir noticed Hanne’s sadness and reassured her that everything would be fine.</p><p>On one of his visits, Bello Madu confided in Hanne, saying, “I know you may have heard about my family situation. My mother insists that you live in our family home with her and my first wife. It’s not ideal, but I hope to make arrangements for us to have our own place in the future.”</p><p>Hanne, ever gracious, responded, “I understand and will respect your mother’s wishes. May God bless our union.”</p><p>Bello Madu was deeply moved by Hanne’s kindness and humility. However, she couldn’t help but feel trapped, as her heart still yearned for Haisam.</p><p>As the wedding day approached, Hanne struggled to accept her fate but remained determined to honor her family’s wishes. Despite her internal conflict, she continued to pray for peace and strength to move forward.</p><hr><p>Let me know if you'd like further clarification or edits!</p>
