<p>Just then, the strong storm wind slammed against the tailor’s shop door with force. Isyaku used his foot to block it.</p><p>"You don't get it, Hilal," he continued. “Even a blind man could tell that Lauriyya is deeply in love with you.”</p><p> </p><p>—</p><p>When I left the tailor's shop, I crossed the street quickly, heading to my office. The storm was making it difficult to see ahead due to the fierce wind blowing dust into my eyes. The entire town was engulfed in darkness, making it look like 6:30 in the evening, even though it was only one in the afternoon.</p><p>As I approached my office, I became extra cautious, knowing that some of my creditors might still be waiting for me there. I paused at the door, listening for any noise. Hearing nothing, I moved closer and placed my ear against the heavy door. After taking a deep breath and whispering a prayer, I reached out to push the door open—only for it to open from the inside.</p><p>"Welcome, Hilal," Lauriyya greeted. “Come in. Emeka just left a few minutes ago. He had been waiting since eleven o’clock, but I told him you went to Kaduna.”</p><p>My heart pounded. I quickly entered the office, and Lauriyya shut the door behind me, leaning against it and staring at me intently.</p><p>I walked in slowly, hands in my pockets, scanning the room. The storm made it difficult to see anything clearly, so Lauriyya quickly switched on the lights.</p><p>As the room lit up, I saw the sadness in her eyes—there were even tears forming. I quickly looked away and continued examining the office.</p><p>Once, this office was the most elegant director’s office in the Hausa film industry. But now, looking at it made me want to cry. Indeed, the mighty had fallen.</p><p>"Have patience, Hilal. That’s how life is," Lauriyya said softly from behind me.</p><p>I heard her, but I didn’t turn around or respond. My mind drifted back to the past—the golden days.</p><p> </p><p>—</p><p> </p><p> </p>
