LOVING HANEEFAH

Epilogue

Years had passed, and life in the Muhammad household was a vibrant blend of love, chaos, and accomplishments. The family had grown in both size and strength, with Haneefah and Muhammad continuing to nurture their children, careers, and relationships. Their home had become a hub for not only their immediate family but also for extended family members who cherished the warmth and joy that radiated within its walls.

It was a bright Saturday morning, and the house was already buzzing with activity. Tahiya and Tahira, now fourteen years old, were arguing over whose turn it was to choose a movie for family night. Mika'il Sa'dan and Lawal Naadim, eight and four years old respectively, were playing dress-up in the living room, donning oversized hats and boots they had "borrowed" from Haneefah's closet.

Haneefah, now a consultant medical laboratory scientist, was in the kitchen preparing breakfast. She wore her usual calm demeanor, skillfully managing multiple tasks while keeping an ear on the ongoing debates in the living room.

Muhammad entered, holding a giggling Naadim in one arm and carrying his discarded shoes in the other. "Your kids are turning our house into a runway," he teased, setting him down.

"Our kids," Haneefah corrected, a playful smile on her face. "And what's wrong with a little fashion experimentation?"

Muhammad leaned against the counter, watching her with admiration. "Nothing, as long as they don't raid your jewelry next."

Haneefah laughed then turned to continue what she was doing.

The weekend was special,not just because it was family night, but because Haneefah's siblings and their spouses, Sadiya,Aliyu and Aziza,Jaafar. were coming over with their families. Maryam and Hafeez were also joining with their children. The living room was soon filled with laughter and chatter as cousins reunited and adults exchanged updates on their lives.

Sadiya's son Aazaad, now a curious Fifteen year-old, was busy showing Tahira his new iphone. Maryam's daughter Ameena, equally curious, joined Tahira and Ra'idah (Sadiya's second daughter) in setting up a mock "scientist lab" with Haneefah's old equipment.

"Meema" Tahira called out, holding up a beaker filled with colored water, "does this look like the experiment you showed us last week?"

Haneefah walked over, inspecting their setup with a proud smile. "Close enough. But remember, safety first."

Ammiey and Mammiey sat nearby, watching the children with delight.

"Do you see how they've all grown,Ameena?" Mammiey said, her voice tinged with nostalgia.

"Yes," Ammiey replied, her eyes glistening. "It feels like just yesterday they were toddlers running around in diapers."

"I also remember when they were born but gashi yanxu har na kusa aure" Muhsin said.

Maama,Ammiey and Mammiey shook their heads and laughed at Muhsin.

That evening, after everyone had left and the children were asleep, Muhammad and Haneefah sat on the balcony, enjoying the cool breeze.

"You know," Muhammad began, his voice soft, "I don't say it enough, but I'm grateful for you,Nee. For everything you've done for this family. For me."

Haneefah looked at him, her heart swelling with love. "Ya Roohi, we've built this life together. And I'm grateful for you too,for being my partner, my anchor."

He reached for her hand, holding it firmly. "Do you remember how we didn't want our marriage? And now look at us,four kids, a bustling home, and a lifetime of memories."