ABOUT THIS BOOK
Description
The Long-Awaited Return
Sameeha is overwhelmed with joy. After over a decade in Lagos, far from her family, she’s finally returning to Kaduna. Her husband, Aminu (often called Abban Amrah), has secured a job transfer to Abuja and completed their house in Kaduna. For Sameeha, this is more than relocation—it’s a dream fulfilled.
Despite living in Lagos for ten years, where she gave birth to her two children—Abi (9 years old) and Amrah (6)—Sameeha never truly felt at home. She missed her loved ones deeply and longed for the warmth of Kaduna, where both her own and her husband’s families live. Although Aminu’s new job is in Abuja, she plans to stay in Kaduna, and he has lovingly agreed to visit every weekend. Her happiness is rooted in the thought of reconnecting with her people.
A Hidden Conflict Emerges
The excitement of moving is slightly marred when her mother calls to inform her that Hauwa and Laure—her in-laws—visited her new home under the pretext of helping clean and prepare it. Sameeha instantly senses something is off. She hadn't authorized their visit, and their reputation for meddling and gossip makes her uneasy.
Her mother advises her to let things go and avoid starting conflicts. Sameeha tries to stay calm but reflects on past interactions: Laure, who once tried to get close to her as a confidant, turned against her when Sameeha kept her distance. Hauwa, Aminu’s sister, regularly displayed a sense of dominance and superiority. These two, alongside Sa'a—Kamalu’s wife—often gossip and stir drama, especially when it comes to Sameeha’s perceived “perfection.”
Sameeha’s Quiet Struggles
Despite her calm and courteous exterior, Sameeha has long sensed hostility from her in-laws. Their disdain stems largely from jealousy—Aminu is wealthy, respected, and successful, and he spoils Sameeha and their children. He doesn’t entertain gossip about his wife, even when they attempt to manipulate him.
Sameeha suspects the recent “cleaning” visit is more about intrusion than kindness. Still, she holds onto hope, praying for Allah’s protection and a peaceful new chapter in Kaduna.
Mother and Daughter Moments
Amrah enters, excited about the move and curious if their new school will be better—and safer from their old, harsh schoolmistress. Sameeha reassures her daughter with warmth and love. She tells her their new school will be excellent and that she wants her to thrive academically and spiritually. Their bond is tender and hopeful.
A Legacy of Family and Change
Sameeha reflects on Aminu’s extended family: his elder brother Alhasan, known for his discipline; Kamalu, whose wife Sa’a is a two-faced gossip; Hauwa, the dominating sister; and the youngest, Ummu Salma, a kind-hearted woman preparing for her own wedding. The family home, known as the Family House of Alhaji Ado Meyare, carries deep legacy and expectations.
Arrival Day: Joy Meets Chaos
On the day of their move, everything goes smoothly. They arrive in Kaduna and are warmly received by Yaya Alhasan and Kamalu. Sameeha rides with Kamalu and Amrah, while Aminu rides with Abi and Alhasan. But as soon as they reach their new home, they are stunned—the house is in disarray, like a party was thrown in their absence.
Food and drinks litter the floor, brand-new cushions are stained, and the place is chaotic. Aminu is livid. He storms into the house and collapses onto a cushion in his room, defeated and frustrated. Alhasan follows, equally furious, and confronts Hauwa and Laure for the disrespect.
The Confrontation
Alhasan doesn’t hold back. He scolds them for invading the home, cooking, and celebrating without permission, especially when the couple planned a formal walima later in the week. Hauwa and Laure defend themselves, claiming they only wanted to express joy.
Kamalu backs his brother, blaming his wife Sa’a and Hauwa for the chaos. Laure becomes defensive and accuses the brothers of showing favoritism toward Sameeha. Sameeha, ever diplomatic, steps in to calm tensions. She thanks the women for the welcome and insists she appreciates the gesture, even if it wasn’t necessary. Still, she knows in her heart that this was a power play, not love.
Back to the Shadows
After being scolded, Laure, Hauwa, and Sa’a storm off, bitter and embarrassed. They regroup and plan to return to the family house nearby. The next morning, they begin moving their cooking items and murhu back to the family house, mumbling about how ungrateful Aminu and Sameeha are.
The Plot Thickens
As they walk back, they vent their anger. Hauwa expresses deep hatred for Sameeha, while Laure swears she’ll make life miserable for her. They plan to spy on Sameeha’s household by sending a housemaid who’ll report back everything that happens. This calculated move reveals their intent to sabotage Sameeha’s peace.
Sameeha’s Dignified Strength
Meanwhile, Sameeha surveys the damage in her new home. Though disappointed, she doesn’t let anger take over. Instead, she begins planning how to clean and reset the house. The home, spacious and beautifully designed with modern amenities, feels like a fresh start.
She also admires how Aminu’s section of the house is neat and practical, and how the family quarters (BQs) and garden provide a serene atmosphere. Despite the chaos, she’s determined to settle in and protect her home from external negativity.
Strength Amid Sabotage
This chapter of Sameeha’s life marks a transition from patience to quiet strength. She’s no longer the woman trying to please everyone. Her experiences in Lagos, her distance from her in-laws, and the hidden envy she’s endured have taught her a powerful lesson: dignity doesn’t need validation.
Even in the face of jealousy, gossip, and hidden agendas, Sameeha is determined to live a peaceful life with her husband and children—close to her roots, but far from toxicity.
As for Laure, Hauwa, and Sa’a, they’re preparing their next move. But Sameeha, graceful and wise, is ready.
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