Love triangle 🔺️

TITTLE:LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ♥️. CHAPTER ONE "Bappa, abinci na dinning, go sort yourself out, I am leaving" samira's voice came from the sitting room. "Alright, take care" an old man's voice was heard from upstairs. "Make sure you take your drugs okay?" She picked her bag from a couch and made her way to the door. "Naji,bye,take care" he came down leaning on his stick as he waved his hand at her. OUTSIDE THE APARTMENT. A guy was waiting on his bike. He is dark in complexion, tall,and good looking. "Sorry to keep you waiting ay" samira rushed out to meet him. "Ba komai, ya bappa?" He asked smiling,showing his dimples. "He's fine" she answered climbing his bike. "This one you're dressing like this, hope you're not trying to seduce your boss?" He teased. "Haba mana, that old man" she laughed. "Okay oo,since you say so. Hold me tight oo" he started the bike. "This your bike ehn." She laughed. "Ehen, you don start again, no even come there oo" he shakes his head,feigning anger. "You go beat me?" She asked him smiling. "No oo,is bappa that will beat you." He replied. "Abeg,make we dey go,I'm late for work" she said checking her wristwatch. "All this girls ehn, hmm" he said with a chuckle. "No start oo" she lightly slapped his shoulder and he kicked off dust and sped away the bike. AT WORK. "Sam,you're on duty this afternoon " a middle-aged woman said, handing her a key and helmet. "Alright ma'am, thanks" she smiled . BALA CORPORATION, CEO'S office. A knock came on the door. "Yes" a baritone voice came from inside. "Sir,your delivery is here" his secretary announced. "Let the person in" he replied not raising his head from his work. After a while, the door opened again,and a lady walked in holding two leather bags. "Good morning sir" she greeted,approaching him,their eyes met,and they stared at each other for sometime before he withdrew his gaze. "Drop them there" he pointed at a table. "Alright" she dropped them and she was about to leave but he stopped her. "Muslim?" He asked. "Yes sir" she smiled. "Oh, I see, I like your scarf,you look good" he complemented and made his way to eat. "Thanks. I will take my leave now sir" she exits. CONTINUATION OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ❤️ CHAPTER TWO In a cramped apartment, in the evening, there were guys playing games,the room looked rough,with shoes and clothes scattered everywhere,and stench of sweat filled the air. Samira walked inside and she Shaked her head in disgusting. "What the fuck!" She exclaimed. "Ay,where are you?" She called out, standing by the door. "My princess is back" he walked up to her,smiling brightly. "Why is your room like this?" She asked,covering her nose. "Yuk!,it's cramped and smelly." She complained. "Na my guys be this oo" he replied. "And so, I'm sure most of them haven't taken their bath,including you" she pointed at him. "Me?" He sniffed the air. "I'm not smelly oo,I'm smelling nice"he grinned. "Abeg,let's go outside, I can't stay here any longer. You're all stenciled in sweat". She walked out,with him trailing behind. "How was work Sam?." He asked after she stopped walking. "Work was fine and stressful" she smiled. "Here" she handed him a bag. "I know you're hungry,eat this one,those hungry wolves don help you finish your food for house". She teased . "Thank goodness you know. That's why you're my gee" he hugged her. "Kaii,e Don do jor,you dey press me" she pushed him away from her. "My love,my gee, mi amigo,no worry, I go sing for you one day. I don dey compose one song oo." He laughed . "You?,song?, haha,na so we dey hear. Shey na the America you dey so, I dey go America,I dey go america" she mimicked him. "Abeg stop na,wetin be this, you dey spoil the vibe, you're supposed to be praising me amma kina shirme". He frowned. "That one sha concern you, I left bappa at home, I should start going" she said hitting his chest. "Okay na,we go see tomorrow " he replied checking his food. "Abeg tell those guys to leave, them dey smell" she laughed. "Make dem here you" he hugged her again and she exits. ***In a big villa*** "Guy,what are you saying? " zubairu asked walking with two glasses of wine, handing one to one of his friends. "Like,yarinyan is beautiful. I was stunned when I first saw her. How can such a beautiful girl like that, be doing delivery job." Bilal replied to his friend. "Guy don't tell me ka fadi a soyayya" one of his friends who have been playing game chimed in . "I can't really explain it." Bilal replied,lost in thought. "I'm happy for you bro." Zubairu said. "Thanks sha" bilal replied. CHAPTER THREE SAMIRA'S APARTMENT "Bappa, ka ta shi,you know we have an appointment with the doctor,and I have taken permission from my boss,I should return to work by noon,so get up let's go" she urged her father, who was sleeping. "Let's me sleep a littlelonger" he grumbled, snoring and grunting,he drew his blanket over his head. "No bappa,get your ass off the bed now!". She pulled the blanket from his body. "Oh dear,let me sleep " he mumbled. "No,no" she pulled him to the bathroom, prepared a bath for him,and came out to choose a cloth for him. "Assalamu alaikum" a male voice came from downstairs. "Walaikum salam" she replied with a smile, climbing down the stairs. "My gee" ay said shaking hands with her. "Ahh,thank God you came, I and bappa want to go to the hospital for his check up" Sam said sitting on a chair. "Toh,prepare let's go" he carried biscuit from the dinning table,crunching and munching loudly. "Kai,Dan Allah, you're making too much noise" she complained covering her ears in disgust. "Hello handsome " bappa's voice came from the stairs. "Ina kwana bappa" ay stood up to greet him. "How are you doing my dear ayuba?" Bappa asked with a smile. "Fine,how are you, bappa?" He asked. "Bappa is fine" the old man grinned. "Stop with this grinning,let's go before I get late" she stood up and left. AT THE HOSPITAL "InshaAllah ba abun da zai faru,she's fine now" a doctor on a white lab coat said,escorting a young man and an old woman. "Alright,thank you doctor" the young man said. "Good morning doctor kabir" samira greeted,appearing in the picture with her bappa and ay. "Good morning, sam" the doctor replied. "Good morning ma,good morning sir..." she paused when she saw the young man in front of her . "We meet again " the young man smiled. "You know each other?" The doctor asked. "Yeah,we met when I went for a delivery" Sam replied. "Good morning sir,good morning young man" the young man greeted. "How are you dear?" Bappa replied. "I'm fine thank you sir" bilal replied. "Who's sick?" Bappa asked. "Oh,my grandma" he pointed at his grandma. "Sannu" bappa greeted the old lady. They exchanged pleasantries. "Alright doc, we'll take our leave now" bilal said taking his grandma's hand after shaking hands with the doctor. They left, leaving Sam and family. "Let's go in" the doctor summoned them into his office. CONTINUATION OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ❤️ CHAPTER FOUR At the parking lot,in the hospital. "Who's that girl?" Bilal's grandma asked, grinning. "Kaka,she's just a delivery girl" he replied. "Really?,just a delivery girl?, and you were staring at her like that?. I have been watching you, you like her?" She asked smiling. "No way kaka" he denied, blushing. "Come on,yaro, I know. I have experienced all this, that's how your grandpa does anytime he sees me." She explained and her eyes became red. "Allah sarki bala" she sniffed,sobbing quietly. "Kaka,it's okay,come here" he pulled her into his embrace . BALA'S CORPORATION " Make sure you order my lunch from that company,and it should be her that will deliver my food." He explained to his secretary ,who was just nodding as response. "Alright sir " the secretary exits. SAMIRA'S WORK PLACE "Sam,you're to deliver Mr.bala's lunch today" her boss, an old man with a bald hair, said, smiling brightly. "Again?" She asked puzzled. "Of course " the boss left,leaving no space for interrogation. BALA'S CORPORATION There came a soft knock on the door. "Come in" bilal replied. "Here's your food sir" Sam said . "Thank you" he collected it . "I will take my leave sir" she said,turning to leave. "Hold on" he stopped her. "Yes?" Sam replied puzzled. "What's your name?". He asked. "Samira" she replied. "Okay,nice name" he said. "Thanks" she smiled. "Why don't you ask for mine?" He said smiling. "Well,what's your name sir?" She asked. "I'm bilal" he replied. "Nice name" she smiled. "Thanks" he smiled. "I should leave now" she exits. "Samira" he murmured,smiling. CHAPTER FIVE Samira's apartment "Come over joh,I'm waiting" samira hung up a call. "Who's that?" Bappa asked. "Oh,it's ay" she replied. "Oh,is he coming over for dinner?" He asked. "Yes,ka San he's alone " she replied checking her food on the gas. "Toh,yayi" bappa replied,he buried his head on a newspaper in his hand. Half an hour later,Ay walked inside the house with some fruits in his hands. "Bappa,ina wuni" he greeted. "Oh,my sweet boy,how are you doing?" Bappa replied smiling. "I'm fine bappa. Ya jiki?" Ay asked. "Alhamdulilah " bappa smiled. "Ga shi,here's some fruits" he dropped them on a table. "Ah,ah, that's too much. Why do you have to stress yourself " bappa complained. "It's nothing bappa" ay replied smiling. "Allah ya maka albarka" bappa prayed. "Ameen. Where's Sam?" Ay asked looking around. "In the kitchen" bappa pointed. "I will go join her" ay walked into the kitchen. IN THE KITCHEN "What can I help with?" Ay said,tickling Sam. "Stop it" she slapped his hand away from her waist. "You startled me " she pinched his arm. "Ouch,it hurts" he winced in pain. "You deserve it " she continued to stir her stew on the gas. "I'm hungry oo,ba ki gama ba" he asked,licking his lips,peeking the stew on the gas . "Well,you won't taste this food" she blocked his view. "Go outside" she pushed him lightly. "Let me taste the plantain na" he made an attempt to carry a plantain but she slapped his hand away. "Leave,go" she pushed him again. "What about the chicken?" He asked. "It's calling me oo,it wants me to taste it ." He tried to take one but she slapped him again. "Go joh" she finally managed to push him out. "Kai,ay" she chuckled,shaking her head. CHAPTER SIX At the dinning table. "Abinci ya yi dadi" bappa complimented. "Thank you " Sam smiled. "The plantain is salty ." Ay pretend to throw it away. "Thank you" Sam pinched his arm. "I should take it, since it's salty" she made an attempt to take it but he stopped her. "Ah ah,I thought you said it's salty" she teased. "It is,but I will manage it" he contained eating,while bappa laughed. "Kai yaran nan" he shakes his head. "By the way,sa'adatu will be coming " bappa said. "Why?, I mean she should be with her mom, why will she come here?" Sam asked confused. "Dear,you're trying. I just want her to help reduce the stress, you work during the day and come back to take care of me during the night, isn't that enough stress?" He explained. "And, have I ever complained about it?" Sam asked . "No,but you have to watch over your health too" bapoa argued. "Come on,I'm only paying my filial piety, nothing more. And besides ,I don't want to share the blessings with someone else " she pouted. Bappa and ay laughed. "You're funny wallahi " ay said,clutching his stomach. "No matter what, my dear,you're always with my blessings " bappa replied. "I know,but she's a bit a talkative " she complained. "I think sa'adatu's coming is a good idea." Ay chimed in grinning . "Nobody asked for your opinion bro" Sam shut him up. "I'm just saying it" he shrugged his shoulders. Bappa laughed,shaking his head. "You two can't just stay without argument. I'mfull." Bapoa stood up from his chair . "Kai,ay ,if you finish,pack plates wash " Sam ordered. "Bappa,let me get you some fruits to help you digest" she walked away. Ay looked at her in anger and looked back at his food,losing his appetite, he packed the plates to the kitchen. CHAPTER SEVEN AIRPORT Samira waited for some time, checking her watch time to time. A young lady walked up to her with a suitcase. "Hey Sam!" The lady hugged her tightly, smiling brightly. "I missed you so much" sa'adatu said. "I missed you too. How's mom?" Sam asked,departing from the hug, as she carried the suitcase. "She's fine. Although,she was reluctant to let me come,but she still sends her regards " sa'adatu said. "Thanks for coming " Sam smiled, while walking to hail a taxi. "Come on,what are sisters for?" Sa'adatu said. She continued to talk non-stop. A young man walked up to them. "Hi samira" bilal greeted. "Hello" Sam replied looking for taxi. "Looking for taxi?" He asked. "Yeah" she replied not looking at his face. "Hello, Sam,who's this handsome man here?" Sa'adatu asked. "He's, ummm,he's.." she scratched the back of her head, clearly confused. "We're friends" bilal replied. "Hi,I'm bilal" he extended his hand for a handshake. "Hello,I'm sa'adatu, Sam's sister" she shook his hands, smiling. "How about I give you a ride Sam?" Bilal asked. "No thanks,we'll manage" she immediately hailed a taxi. "Hi sir" she greeted the taxi man. "Alright,bye samira and sa'adatu " he walked away. "Sis ,he's so handsome " sa'adatu squealed in excitement. "Are you entering or not?" Sam asked not bothered at all. "I'm coming,let me take a look " sa'adatu giggled. "You're not serious, bye" Sam hopped into the car and sa'adatu followed immediately. CHAPTER EIGHT ZAYD'S APARTMENT. "Man,this one that you came to visit me ,what's up?" Zayd asked bilal,handing him a drink. "Well,it's about the angel" bilal replied smiling. "The girl?,I really want to see her. How did she manage to captivate your heart?,when you hardly fall in love " zayd teased. "Zayd,ba za ka ga ne ba ne,she's just different " bilal explained smiling. "I saw her this afternoon at the airport,da na je picking salma" he added. "Oh,salma is back?" Zayd asked. "Yes. I happened to see her. She's with her sister. I offered to take her home but she declined." He explained. "Like guyy,which girl will see such a handsome man like you ,and still not mind." His friend said in disbelief. "Abi she dey play hard to get?" Zayd added. "I don't think so. She doesn't seem like that" bilal smiled. SAMIRA'S APARTMENT "Achoo,achoo,achoo" samira sneezed three times in a row. "Here you go" bappa handed her a tissue . "Thanks bappa" she wiped her nose. "You caught a cold?" Bappa asked. "I told you not to work yourself out but you won't listen." Bappa scolded her. "Dad,idan banyi aiki ba,how do we live?" She asked. "Bance kar ki yi ba,but not this delivery job" he complained. "Assalamu alaikum,who missed me?" Ay walked in. "Walaikum salam" they replied in unison. "Nobody " Sam replied. "But I did!" Sa'adatu rushed out of the kitchen. "Oh my, wa na ke gani haka" he hugged her. "Ay,it's been ages " Sa'adatu said . "Yeah,my sa'a has grown up" he teased. "Oh ,come on" she pouted,acting cute. "Lokacin da na gan ki ,like you were still little I guess." He teased. "Kai,I'm not that little na" she slapped his arm. "Oh,maybe I forgot" he laughed. "You missed dinner, no food for you" samira said. "Bappa, is there no food for me?" He asked. "Of course ,there will always be food for you" bappa replied. "Ay,you look good. You have turned into a handsome man now oo." Sa'adatu teased . "Thank youuuu." He squealed. "I'm always this good,and every girl's spec" he pinched her nose. She slapped his hand away from her nose in annoyance. "But some persons,always says I look like a gorilla" he complained acting cute. "Of course not. You look like handsome,just like that guy from the airport " Sa'adatu replied. "What guy?" Ay asked confused. He turned to face samira. "What? ,why are you looking at me like that?" Sam asked . "Why won't I?, you didn't tell me about a guy ." He whined. "He's that guy from the hospital that day" she explained . "You mean that guy with an old lady?." He asked. "Yes" she replied. "Oh,just that?" He asked. "What?" Sam asked. "He offered to bring us home ,but Sam declined" sa'adatu said. "Oh,okay" ay smiled. "I'm going upstairs, my back aches" bappa said . "Alright,take your drugs oo" Sam reminded. "Ay,gist me na,I miss you oo" sa'adatu said. "I will go warm the food" Sam exits. CHAPTER NINE The next day, at BALA'S CORPORATION. "Hey samira,join me," bilal said after Sam delivered his meal. "I'm sorry, in as much as I want to, but I'm busy." She politely declined. "How about I get your number?" He asked. "Why?" She asked, puzzled. "Friends?" He replied with a smile. "Can I?" He asked. "Alright," she gave him the number and left. Ay's apartment, Sam and Ay, sat on a bench outside. "Today, sugar no sweet oo," Sam complained. "I shouldn't have bought it," Ay complained too. "You just waste your money," she laughed . Her phone rang,but she didn't pick. It rang for about three times, but she ignored it. "Who's that?" Ay asked. "An unknown number," she replied. The phone rang again. "Pick na, you know if na money matter," he urged. "Hello," she picked up the call. "Who be that?" Ay mouthed to her. "Calm down, na," she mouthed back. "Oh bilal,I'm sorry, I was busy,I didn't pick up the call... yeah,it's fine... how's yours?,...(laughs),alright...thanks...Bye-bye " she hung up. "Who be bilal?" Ay asked. "He's that guy," she replied, smiling . "That guy?, wetin he tell you?" He asked. "Nothing serious," she continued eating. "Wait oo, how he take get your number ?" He asked. "I gave him today because he asked for it," she explained. "And you give him?, na so e dey start oo" he said. "Wetin dey start?" She asked, puzzled. "Ask me again " he continued eating . "What do you mean by that now?" She replied. "I no know oo" he munched on his suya. CHAPTER TEN BALA'S VILLA "Hello, Granny," salima greeted,hugging her grandma's head from behind. "My baby," her grandma smiled. "Where's big bro?" She asked. "He went out," the old lady replied. "Oh, I see," salima replied. "Do you notice?" The old lady asked, lowering her voice and head. "What?" Salima asked, confused. "Your brother rarely stays in the office for lunch, but now he does," she gossiped. "How's that a change?" Salima asked. "There's this girl that comes to deliver food. She's beautiful. I think he likes her, " the old lady explained. Salma laughed in disbelief. "My own brother?, yaya hardly falls in love. How can you say he likes someone?" She said in disbelief. "Believe it or not, go see for yourself," the old lady said, facing the television. BALA'S CORPORATION "Hey bro," salima walked in, smiling. "Little sis," bilal smiled. "Are you busy?" She asked. "Not really," he replied. "I wanted us to go out for lunch," she said. "Oh, I'm sorry to disappoint. I ordered ." He replied. "Oh, but you can just give someone the food," she insisted. "I can't," he replied. Knock knock knock, a soft knock came on the door. "Come in," he replied. The door was gently pushed open, and samira walked in. "Good afternoon sir,good afternoon ma'am " samira greeted. "Don't be formal, samira," he smiled. "You know her?" Salima asked. "Yeah," he replied. "Will you join me, or are you still going out for dinner?" He asked his sister . "I will just join you," she smiled. "I will take my leave now," samira said after dropping the food. "Why didn't you reply to my texts, samira?" Bilal asked when she turned to leave. "I'm sorry, I was sleepy, so I just went offline," she lied, with her back facing him. "It's okay, I hope we will be able to chat tonight," he asked. "I will see to that," she smiled. "Bro,who's she?" His sister asked. "Oh,samira,this is salima,my sister, salima Meet samira, " he introduced. "It's nice to see you," samira said. "Enjoy your meal," samira left. "Bro,she does delivery job?" His sister asked, puzzled. "Yes," he replied,opening the bags. "She's beautiful, she sgould be a model instead," salima squealed. "She's devoted to her work," he replied. "Can I get her number so she will be my model in this new design my company launched. His sister said. "Of course not" he disagreed. "Please " she pleaded.. CHAPTER ELEVEN A week passed, and the relationship between bilal and samira became strong. They became close friends, making ayuba jealous. Ay's apartment "No carry plenty groundnut," Ay complained,as him and samira were drinking garri,on a bench outside his house. "Oya two is enough, right?" Samira asked. "Ehn,e Don do,e dey okay" he pushed her spoon away from the cup of garri. Her phone started ringing,and she checked the ID and smiled. "Who be that wey dey make you smile?" Ay asked. "Shhh," she shushed him. "Hey," she picked up the phone. "Yes...um...I'm free," she smiled. "No, you're not," Ay mouthed to her. "Oh...okay...I will come then...alright...bye," she ignored Ay,and hung up the phone. "I have to go," she stood up. "Bilal?" Ay asked. "Yes,he said today is Saturday. I should accompany him to shopping , " she replied. "He always spoils our fun. It's just a week since you got to know each other, but he wants to steal you away from me." He pouted. "Oh, come on,he's just a friend like you," she pinched his nose. "And so?" He pushed her hand away. "You have Sa'adatu and bappa," she said. "When will you be back?" He asked. "I don't know," she replied . "Alright, take care," he said, looking sad. "I will make it up to you." she hugged his head and left excitedly. "Who's this bilal of a guy?, is he really worth your time?, he's clearly stealing you from me," he muttered under her breath. CHAPTER TWELVE Shopping mall. "Is this one okay?" Bilal asked,raising a dress up for samira to see. "It's good," she replied. "I will take this," he said to an attendant. "Let's go over there," he pointed at another row of dresses. "That one is okay," she pointed to a dress. "Samira, I want you to accompany me to a dinner." He said when he was paying for the dresses. "What dinner?" She asked. "Well,a dinner at my father's old friend's house," he replied. "It's gonna be boring, and I needed a companion," he added. "Um... okay,when is that?" She asked. "Today evening, sorry for telling you now," he said, looking apologetically. "It's fine," she smiled. Samira's apartment "I will win now, you will see," Ay said to bappa as they were playing whot. "Pick two" sa'adatu said to ay. "Ah,ah, why now? I for don win now," he complained. They burst into laughter. "You're playing with a genius, you don't know," bappa said with a smug smile. "He's always a loser," samira said, descending the stairs. All eyes fell on her. Ay was stunned when he saw her. He looked at her in awe, his mouth in agape. "How do I look?" She asked, standing in front of them. "You always look good, my dear," bappa smiled. "Thank you, bappa," she smiled. "You're beautiful sis" sa'adatu squealed. "Where are you going to?" She asked. "I'm going to a dinner party with bilal," Sam replied. "Oh,I see," sa'adatu smiled. She turned to Ay, and she saw how he was looking at Sam dumbstrucked. She nudged him with her elbow,bringing him back to reality. "Ouch,it hurts ," he recovered from his astonishment. "It's just a party. Why dressed up like this?" He asked rudely, hiding his jealousy. "It's none of your business," she tuts her teeth. "Bappa, I'm leaving. He should be outside waiting for me. " she ran out. "Bye!? Sa'adatu yelled behind her. "Bye," she replied from outside. "I'm leaving bappa," ay stood up. "We haven't finished the game yet." Sa'adatu said. "I'm no longer interested." He replied, walking away. CHAPTER THIRTEEN Outside the apartment . Bilal stood beside his black car, waiting for samira. When he caught sight of her coming, he stared at her in astonishment. "Hello,good evening," she greeted after approaching him . "Good evening, samira." He stuttered. "You look good in black," he smiled. "You ain't bad either," she smiled back . "Give me the honour, my lady." he extended his hand towards her like a gentleman. "Awwwn," she accepted, and he opened the car door for her to get in. They joked and laughed, while on the other side of the picture, the scene was seen by ayuba. He clenched his fist,his face tightening and stormy like a dark cloud. A week later. Samira's apartment "Aren't you going to work?" Sa'adatu asked samira while she practised her yoga. "Nah,I quit." Samira replied, sipping tea from her favourite mug. "What?,why?" Sa'adatu asked, confused. "I have gotten a new one," she replied. "Which job?!" Sa'adatu asked. "Well, a model for bilal's sister." She smiled. "Really?!" Sa'adatu asked excitedly. "Yeah ," she replied . "Why didn't you tell me?" Sa'adatu asked. "I told bappa, I was planning to tell you and ay," she replied. "It's been a while since I saw him," she added. "You have forgotten about him since you got a new friend," Sa'adatu retorted unhappy. "You guys are just being jealous ," Sam laughed. "Well,you can say that'' Sa'adatu stood up. "I will accompany bappa to the hospital. You can rest at home." Sam said. '"Alright,I will just go to Ay's place," Sa'adatu said. "Send my regards," samira said . CHAPTER FOURTEEN BALA'S residence. "Bello,you came without letting us know," the old lady said to her son. "Mom,we wanted to surprise you," the son replied. "Ya kike jummai" the old lady asked a middle-aged woman sitting beside her son. "Lafiya alhamdulilah mama,ya jiki," jummai replied. "Alhamdulilah. Bilal has been taking care of me, " the old lady replied, smiling. "Ina shi bilal in yake," the man asked. "Oh,ya je company," the old lady replied. "Salima fa," he asked. "She's not idle now,she has her own company,a fashion design company. " the old lady replied. "Toh,alhamdulilah, she's not lazy anymore," jummai joked. "Yes, my dear," they laughed. In a restaurant "We'll be having a family dinner soon. My parents just returned from abroad, and I want you to come so they can see you, " bilal said to samira as they finished eating. "Oh,when is that?" She asked. "Well, that should be on Saturday," he replied. "Okay then," she smiled. BALA'S residence "...I'm serious,he's in love," salima reported to her parents. They were sitting together in their living room. "Are you kidding me? bilal that I know doesn't fall in love," his mother said in disbelief. "Exactly,I'm finding it difficult to believe," her father said. "He has rejected so many girls," his mother said. "If you think salima is lying, then I won't lie to you" her grandma chimed in. "I want to see the girl" jummai said happily. CHAPTER FIFTEEN Ay's apartment "Hello...yes...what?!...I will be there," he rushed out of his apartment. Hospital "What happened to him?" Samira rushed in, in panic. "How will you know when you're busy with your love!" Ay replied in anger. "What do you mean?" She asked angrily. "If you have been watching him closely, you would have noticed some changes, but you didn't. You're lovestruck,you don't care about him!" He said again . "Stop it, ay,I saw about my dad!" she retorted. "Of course I see how much you care for him when you hardly give him your time, but you gave someone else your time !." He shouted, veins visibly bulging on his forehead. "Ay, you're pushing too far," she said coldly. "(Scoffs), really? I hit the nail on the head?" He asked. "Enough of you two, can't you see He needs rest" sa'adatu interjected . "Can't you see he's exhausted? Don't you want him to recover ?" She added. They stared intently at each other before ay stormed out of the room . The atmosphere in the room became tensed. "Sis, you really have to make amends with ay" sa'adatu said after a while. "I will. What did the doctor say?" .she asked. "Well,it's just an episode,he will be fine," sa'adatu replied. "What really happened?" Samira asked. "Well,I was in my room feeling bored. When I heard a loud thud,I rushed out and saw bappa in his room on the cold floor,holding Momma's photo." Sa'adatu recounted the incident . "Again?" Sam asked. "I thought I took all momma's belongings?" She asked, puzzled. "Maybe he has another one," sa'adatu said . "I will go see ay,I will be back," Sam said. "Okay" sa'adatu smiled. CHAPTER SIXTEEN Parking lot. "Ay!,ay!, wait!" Samira called out, running towards him. "What do you want?!" He asked in anger. "I'm sorry, okay? I know you are angry because I no longer spend time with you, please. I'm sorry, " she pleaded, taking his hands in hers. "It's okay. I was also impulsive in there. I couldn't control my anger,I'm sorry. It's just that his sister you're working for always finds a way for you two to bond ." He complained. "How did you know?" She asked, surprised. "Don't be angry oo,but I followed you sometimes ," he replied . "Ay, don't tell me you're stalking me," she asked, pouting. "I'm sorry, I just can't contain it, so I followed you," he said, lowering his gaze. "I'm angry, oo" she crossed her arms under her bust. "Please na, don't be angry," he pleaded, holding her shoulder. "Um,um, leave me alone," she turned her head sideways. "Sorry na my gee," he hugged her head and caressed it. "You won't do it again, ba," she asked, hugging him back. "Yes,I won't," he replied, smiling. On one side of the picture, bilal happened to see the scene. He walked away with gifts in his hands. Bilal's car. "Why didn't you go in?" Salima asked. "She's busy," he replied, expressionless, keeping the gifts on her lap. "Busy with what?" She asked, confused. "Her boyfriend," he replied, igniting the car. Wait! Do you mean ayuba?"his sister asked. "Kind of, he's tall,dark,and good-looking. I saw them romantically embracing each other. " he replied. "Bro, he's her best friend," she said, laughing . "Don't tell me you're jealous," his sister added. "I'm not. Are you serious? " he asked. "Of course," she replied. "I remember a day I went to their house. I saw him, and they addressed him as ay. He's a nice guy,just like a big brother to her, " his sister explained. "Oh,I thought they have something going on between them," he said, holding his temples. "Are you going in?" His sister asked. "No, I will just go back to work," he drove off. "Thanks for the gift," his sister laughed, holding the gifts in her hands. CHAPTER SEVENTEEN Samira's apartment Two days later. "Bappa, why are you stubborn?" Samira asked,assisting him to sit on a sofa. (Bappa chuckled )" I just miss her," he replied with red eyes. "Bappa,I'm not joking," she scolded. "Sa'adatu come sit here," he beckoned for her to sit close to him. "I'm sorry, I neglected you all this time. " He said downcast. "No bappa" sa'adatu smiled. "I wasn't fair to you and your mother." He smiled bitterly. "Your mother loved me so much,but I was so immensed in Samira's mother . I love that woman a lot, but death took her soul away. Your mother tried her best to please me,to make me love her, but I never looked her way. I'm sorry, please tell her I'm sorry. " A tear fell down his eyes and rolled down to his cheek. "Bappa,it's okay,that's in the past now," sa'adatu wiped away his tears. "Bappa,don't indulge yourself in past painful memories," samira said, holding sa'adatu's hand and bappa's. "We're family. We should love one another. " she added. "Thank you sam, you're the best," he smiled. "And you too sa'a " he turned to sa'adatu. "Thanks so much. Tell your mom I say thank you. " He added. "Okay, so let's take a family picture." Sa'adatu squealed. "Okay,now say cheeseeeee." They took a couple of pictures and did a group hug. "Assalamu alaikum " bilal and his sister entered. "Walaikum salam," they family replied,departing from the hug. "Hi samira," salima ran to her and gave her a hug . "Sannu baba," salima greeted bappa. "Sannu, baba,ya jiki," bilal greeted, bending down. "Lafiya,yaro ka tashi," bappa replied, smiling. "Ga wannan," bilal handed some fruits to samira. "You shouldn't have brought all this," samira said, smiling. "It's nothing," bilal replied, sitting on a chair. "Mun gode sosai," bappa said. "Ba komai baba," bilal smiled. "Ya gajiya," bilal asked. "Toh Alhamdulilah," bappa replied. "Allah ya kara sauki," bilal said . "Ameen," bappa smiled. "Salima!" Bilal called out to his sister, who has been making noise with sa'adatu. "Let her be," bappa chuckled. "Salamu alaikum," Ay's voice came in. "Walaikum salam," they all replied. "Who missed me?" He asked, handing fruits to samira,as he made his way to sit. "Nobody," samira replied,walking to the kitchen. "I know you will reply." he sat close to bappa. "Sannun ku," he greeted the guests. "Yauwa sannu," bilal and his sister replied. "Bappa ya jiki, I'm sorry I didn't come to the hospital today to pick you up. I was busy." Ay said. "Ba komai yaro na,you've tried." Bappa smiled. "I will join Sam in the kitchen." Ay stood up and walked to the kitchen. "I will get you something to drink,Sam is cooking, you should stay for lunch" sa'adatu said walking to the kitchen. "How's work and family?" Bappa asked. "Alhamdulilah," bilal replied. "MashaAllah," bappa replied. CHAPTER EIGHTEEN In the kitchen. "Go away, ay. You're not helping me here, " samira pushed him away. He chuckled. He made an attempt to carry a meat, but she slapped his hand away. Sa'adatu walked in and saw them playing. "Make the food no burn sha" sa'adatu joked. "Tell ay to leave," samira said. "Ay come let's go," she dragged him out. "Help me carry this juice," she added. Dining table. "Samira, you made this?" Salima asked. "Yeah, I did," samira replied. "Wow,it's delicious. Will you share your recipes with me?" Salima asked, sounding cute. "Of course,anytime," samira smiled. "Samira is a good cook. She started cooking at the age of ten, " bappa said, gulping down water. "No wonder," saluma smiled. "Hmmm,she cooks concoction every day. I'm just enduring the bast taste." Ay lied,savouring the food. "Thanks," samira smiled,drinking water. "Here have some kunu" sa'adatu handed kunu to ay. "Sam, I want your meat" ay carried her plate of food . "Are you mad?" She slapped his hand. "Give me back my meat, bappa ka na gani ko," she complained. "Take e,ah," he gave her back her food. "Where's the meat?" She asked, checking her plate for meat. "Oh,so you think say you wise. Sa'a take this, add to your own, " he added a meat to sa'adatu. "She hid two meat under her food," he laughed. "Sal... what's your name sef?, do you want?" He asked salima. "No, I'm fine ." Salima declined. "It's not fair oo" samira cried. "Here have mine," bilal handed her his meat. "Awwn,sweet boy," she collected it but ay snatched it from her and ate it. "Ah,bappa,carry this wild beast away,Dan Allah," she complained. Bilal quietly watched as they played together happily. He felt hurt watching them. CHAPTER NINETEEN After the meal. "Mun gode sosai for the meal," bilal said, standing up with his sister. "Sam,I really enjoyed the meal," salima said. "Thank you," samira smiled. "We'll take our leave now. Bappa ,Allah ya kara sauki," bilal said, walking out. "Bappa,I will see them out," samira walked out. "Me too" sa'adatu and ay followed behind. Outside the apartment "Thanks for coming," samira said smiling as she walked them to their car. "It's fine. I just did the needful, " bilal replied politely. Ay came from behind and wrapped his hand around samira's neck. "Kai, are you crazy?" she hit his hand,pinching it. "(Acting cute) oh,come on,don't hit me, it hurts," he winced. "I will take my leave now," bilal said, hopping into his car,without giving them a glance. "Bye, samira." Salima said,getting into the car. "Bye," the three waved at her. Inside the car,on their way home. "Bro, what's up?" salima asked. "Don't you see how lovey-dovey they both are. They're a complete perfect match." He said, gripping the steering veins bulging on his head. "Oh, come on, bro, just tell her you love her. I told you they aren't lovers." Salima said. "No, I can't tell her. That ayub of a guy really loves her." He said. "Do you know if she doesn't love him?, she might be taking him as a friend, nothing more ." His sister said. "I'm sure if he tells her he loves her, she will accept. " he said. "Bro,Sam sees him as a big brother, can't you see that?" she said. "No matter what, she must be mine," he said, gritting his teeth. "Just tell her you love her,period," his sister said, focusing on her phone. CHAPTER TWENTY Samira's apartment. A week later. "Here you go," samira dropped popcorn on the centre table in the living room,as they were watching a movie. She joined them to watch the movie. "Awwn, so sweet," sa'adatu said, watching the movie . "I'm will be leaving for lagos," Ay said after a moment of silence. "What?!" Bappa,samira and sa'adatu said in unison. "Yes. I'm going to lagos, I got a contract from a famous company in lagos." He replied. "When are you leaving?" Samira asked. "A day after tomorrow. The company was impressed by my design, so we signed a contract. " Ay explained. "Allah ya bada sa'a " bappa said. "Ameen bappa." He replied. "How long will you stay there?" Samira asked. "It's a six months contract. " he replied. "What?!" She exclaimed. "It's too long, na." She whined. "I will come back, na," he chewed on popcorn. "I will miss you, sha." Sa'adatu sa'adatu said. "Ehen bappa, umma said in dawo tin da you're now strong. " sa'adatu added. "Ba komai. Kin yi kokari." Bappa smiled. "So this house will become boring and lonely." Samira said. "Zan yi kewan ku." She added. "Come here," ay hugged her, and the other two joined in the hug. CEO'S OFFICE, BALA'S CORPORATION. "Have you done what I asked of you?" Bilal asked his secretary. "As per your instructions, he has been given a six months contract, and he will be leaving for lagos a day after tomorrow ." The secretary reported. "Good, you can go." he waved his hand to the secretary as a dismissal. "Within these six months, let's me see if you will reject me ." He smirked. CHAPTER TWENTY ONE OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️❤️ BALA'S RESIDENCE "Brother,are you behind it?!." Salima said as soon she barged into bilal's room. "Behind what?." He asked. "And ta ya ya za ki shiva min daki without knocking," he added. "Bilal, what you did was really not fair. It's out of point. " she said. "What did I do? Why will you come to my room spatting nonsense." He asked, looking at her with an angry face. "Bilal,love is not done that way. If you're hurting people just to get what you want, then quit it." She said coldly. "You think I don't know you're behind Ay's contract with the lamingo's company in lagos." She added. "Hmmm,I see. Is that why you're here?" He asked. "Bilal,be careful, ka bi duniya a sannu." she left, shutting the door with a loud band. "She has the guts." He scoffed. SAMIRA'S APARTMENT "Toh,bappa,I'm leaving." Ay said,standing up from a chair. Bappa stood up, leaning on his cane. "Toh,take care,I can't escort you," bappa said with a smile. "Ah ah, ba damuwa," ay smiled. "I will call time to time InshaAllah. " He added. "Alright then," bappa smiled. "Why are they taking too much time?" Bappa muttered. "Sa'adatu!, samira!" He called out . "Na'am," they replied, descending the stairs,holding suitcase. "Bappa." Sa'adatu called out. She pulled him into her embrace. "I will miss you, bappa." She said with tears flowing freely from her eyes. "I will too, please don't cry." Bappa said,wiping her tears. "Awwn," samira whimpered, wiping her tears too. Ay pulled samira into his arms. Motor park. "Sir, they are at the park." A man reported on his phone as he stared at ay,samira and sa'adatu . Five minutes later, a black car appeared, watching the three from a distance. "Why are you stalking them?" Zayd asked bilal, who was focused on the scene. "She's the woman I love, and I would do anything in my power to get her. She can't escape my grasp." Bilal said with a wicked smirk. "Wait oo,hold on, bilal, no tell me say you plan everything." Zubair, his other friend, asked. "Salma been tell me say you arranged for my uncle's company to sign a six months contract with him." Zubair added. "Then, if you really are the one that arranged the contract, that means you like her and that guy over there like her too." Zayd said, figuring everything out. "You guys aren't dumb," bilal replied, smiling. CHAPTER TWENTY TWO "I won't cry oo" samira said, sniffing. "Nobody say you will cry na" ay and sa'adatu laughed. "Come here, sis." Sa'adatu pulled her into her embrace. "I will miss you so much. Please plead with umma to let you come again." Samira said. "I will." Sa'adatu replied,smiling at her . "I deserve a hug, too." Ay said. "Come to Daddy." He broke into a smile and pulled her in his arms. "My love,I will miss you," Ay said,wanting to depart from the hug, but samira held onto him. "I will miss your wahala." Samira said, crying . "Somebody is crying. Cry cry baby, " he teased. She hit him on his chest while he held her hand. "Oya, let me go." He said. "No,I want to hold you." She held on to him tightly. "Ahh, make your boyfriend no come see us oo." He joked. "You idiot!" She hit his chest with a small fist. "I don't have a boyfriend," she pinched his chest. "Ouch,ouch, it's hurts. Okay,okay, you're single. Stop, please." He winced in pain. "Stay single till I return," he joked. "You too." She smiled. "You should start going. " samira said. "I recorded everything on my phone. I will send it to you guys, or I go just post am for our group. Una don finish una lovey-dovey. " sa'adatu teased. "Kai sa'a " ay said. "Let's take a few pics na as memories. " sa'a suggested. "Wipe your snot joh, you no go join us with that ugly face," ay teased samira. "You idiot!, you don start abi" she got angry. "Please don't start it" sa'adatu warned. "By the count of three, you will say cheese. 1,2,3 cheeese" they took several shots of photos before departing. All this was seen by bilal,he felt hurt but still composed himself. "This will be the last time you will hug her this close ." Bilal smirked. BALA'S VILLA "That girl samira is beautiful." The old lady said smiling, as they were watching a movie in the living room. "Yes, Mama. I don't know why bilal is delaying ." Jummai said . "You know,it's stage by stage. It will start from friendship,the before moving further. " bello described. "Uban soyayya." Jummai teased. They all laughed. "I like the girl." Jummai said, smiling. "It's really rare for bilal to fall in love. He should take the initiative to tell her about his feelings. "Bello said. "I really can't wait to have her as my daughter in law. " jummai said. "InshaAllah, she will be." The old lady said. CHAPTER TWENTY THREE OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ❤️ Salima's room. "What do you want?" Salima asked her brother coldly, not even looking at his face. "I came to speak to my little sis. Is that a crime?" He smiled and settled on her bed . "It's not. It's just that the little sis is busy." She replied, playing on her phone. "I know you love ayub," he said after a pause. "So?" She acted nonchalantly. "You're angry because I sent him far. I know your company is a design company, but it's better he's far away from my samira. She's mine." He said. "She being yours, how is it my business." She replied and continued playing on her phone. Don't just tell anyone that I was behind it, or else I will deal with you." He threatened. "Really?, it's now results to threat?" She asked with a scoff . "I have tell you my own. Just so you know, your company, " he smirked and turned to leave. "If one day I was told my brother would turn out to be like this,then I would have strongly disagreed. But now,my once good brother,gas turned out to be a devil in disguise. " she said, and he halted his steps. "Think whatever you want, but I can do anything just to get what I want. " He said without turning back before leaving the room. "Allah ya shirya. " she shaked her head. "I know I can't get you, but I wish you happiness, ay," she smiled bitterly. Another location. Sa'adatu's residence. "Ah,ah,lagos boy, how far... kalau wallahi... ya aiki...(laughs)No, be you wan go lagos...I haven't heard from her oo...tell me, ay, do you love samira...are you serious?...kai talk true...your secret is safe with me...trust me na...(laughs), but you know that that girl salima,tana sanka... I dey observe jor...like serious... since when she started coming to our house often,na gane cewa she's in love with you...okay toh...Allah?.. .are you kidding me?... kace no be small thing be that...oya na,I won't tell her,...alright bye" she hung up the phone,she was having with ay. "I knew it. He loves her." She laughed. "You will always be in bed with your phone. " her mother walked in nagging. She placed a set of clothes in the cupboard. "Ke da waye a waya," her mother asked. "Ni da ayub " sa'adatu replied. "I head you saying,he loves her, waye kenan?" Her mother asked. "Oh,it's actually my sister,sam." Sa'adatu replied. "Really?!" Her mother asked, surprised. "Yes oo umma, he's even preparing to propose to her when he returns. " Sa'adatu explained. "Wow, that's great. They've been together for long,being single,it's best they get married. Samira is getting old sef." Her mother said. "Hmm,toh, it's good oo. Amma da wani fa." Sa'adatu said. "Wa kenan," her mother asked. "I don't know if you've heard of the BALA'S CORPORATION. " Sa'adatu asked. "Oh,yes, I heard it's a young guy that's running the company. He just returned from the US five months ago after expanding the family business. " her mother explained. "Thabk God, you know. Toh, the guy his name is bilal. He actually likes Sam. I pray ay propose before him." Sa'adatu said. "Ah ah,omo your sister dey hot oo. Only her,two handsome guys, one is rich while the other is still hustling. I'm happy for her oo." Her mother said smiling. "Mom,your amebo is too much" sa'adatu smiled. CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ❤️ Just like a blink of an eye, two months passed . Samira, ay and sa'adatu still communicate, their relationship grew stronger. Bilal,on the other hand, git close to samira,trying to impress her. One Saturday evening, samira's apartment. Bilal and samira were in the living room watching a movie while bappa was in his room resting. "Samira." Bilal called out softly. "Yes?" She replied, turning to face him. "I..I didn't know how to start, though." He chuckled softly. He cleared his throat and looked at her in the eye. "I love you, samira. Since the very first day I set my eyes on you, I fell head over heels for you. I have been hiding these feelings, and I think it's time to let you know. You're the first woman I have fallen in love with, and I don't want to lose you." He confessed, looking at her face, not missing any reaction on it. Her face changed from shock to amazement and then worry. "Am i too forward?" He asked nervously. "I feel pretending to be friends with you is.. is not fair." He said nervously. She just kept on looking at him in daze. "Sa.. Samira, Sam.. samira." He snapped his fingers on her face, bringing her back to reality. "I.. sorry, I just zoned out. I was just surprised. I mean ( chuckled nervously. ) it's..it's surprising. " she said, crossing her fingers over the other in nervousness. "What's your answer?" He asked. "Do you love me? In any way, do you feel anything for me?." He asked nervously. "Um.. how about you give me time to think about it?." She said . "How long?" He asked. "Maybe a night or two," she smiled. "Alright, I will try and wait." He replied. Samira's room. After bilal left, she ran to her room to tell her sister about it. She was sweating nervously. "..I'm telling you," samira's voice could be heard from her room as she was on the phone with her sister. "(Laughs) I'm confused, fa," she said. "..I don't know if I love him. But I like him." She said, blushing. "Sa'adatu I don't know, I'm just nervous ne kawai. This is the first time I will be in a relationship. " she said, biting her lips. "Okay toh, good night." She hung up the call. Outside the room, bappa was eavesdropping. He smiled and retreated to his room. The next morning. "In kara maka shayi?" Samira asked bappa,as they were eating breakfast. "No, yayi." He smiled. "I heard your conversation last night. " After a moment of silence, bappa spoke up. "What conversation?" Samira asked, surprised. "Between you and bilal and also sa'adatu. " He grinned. "Bappa, eat your food before it gets cold." Samira said, blushing. "I think you should accept him if you like him. You're not getting any younger, and besides, you're twenty-five,your prime age."He said, smiling. "And you see,I didn't marry early, now I'm old, I want to at least see my grandchildren before I pass away." He said, smiling. "Bappa, you won't pass away now. You'll live longer. And besides, if I get married now, who will take care of you? You will be alone. And if umma refuses to let sa'adatu come, then who will be with you?." She complained. "Umma will let sa'adatu come, and you can hire a house help." He said. "No bappa, nowadays, house helps are bad. I can't guarantee your safety . And you inviting sa'adatu, you're stressing her." She said. "Stop whining jor, get married, and I will be happy." He smiled, nudging her arm with his elbow. "So you think I should accept bilal?" She asked. "If you want to." He replied. "Alright." Shd smiled. CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE At a restaurant. "So, have you decided?." Bilal asked samira after they finished their meal. "Yes." She replied awkwardly. "So, what's your answer?." He asked. "Yes." She replied, burying her head on her juice. "Yes?, what do you mean, yes?" He asked. "I accept you," she smiled shyly, not looking at his face. "Yes!" He exclaimed. He jumped up and down in excitement. 'Ay, let's see if you still get a chance. She's mine now." Bilal thought with a smirk plastered on his face. "Thank you so much, samira. I will make sure you won't regret this, I promise." He said, delighted. SAMIRA'S APARTMENT Bappa was on a video call with sa'adatu and ay. "... Samira is on a date with bilal." Bappa said, smiling. "Really?" Sa'adatu asked. "Yes, they're actually dating for a few weeks now." Bappa replied. Ay became angry. "Since when?." Ay asked. "I think it's up to three or four weeks now." Bappa replied. "And she didn't tell me." Ay said, angry. "It's supposed to be a surprise. " bappa whispered. "She actually told me." Sa'adatu said. "And she kept it from me?" Ay asked. "That's between you two." Sa'adatu smiled. "No wonder she has been shutting me out. She promised to be single till I returned and now she broke that promise." Ay said,feeling hurt. "What's going on?" Bappa asked, confused. "Bappa, ay actually love samira. He's even planning to propose to her." Sa'adatu replied. "Why didn't I know of this?." Bappa asked. "It's supposed to be a surprise. " Sa'adatu said. "Oh my God, yaro na, it's must have been hurt. I didn't know." Bappa said, feeling guilty. "It's not your fault, bappa." Sa'adatu said. The door was pushed open, and samira walked in. Samira appeared on the screen, looking happy. "Hello, bappa." She jumped on the sofa ,holding bappa's neck. "I'm on a video call with your friends." "Oh, hi sa'adatu, hi ay." She greeted, smiling brightly . "Hey Sam, you look good." Sa'adatu said. "Thank you. Guess what?" She said excitedly. "I can't guess." Sa'adatu replied with a frown. "Bilal proposed to me." Samira squealed. "Oh my God, congratulations." Sa'adatu smiled. "Thank you." Sam replied. "Look, ay, is it beautiful?." She asked Ay, showing him the ring. Ay didn't spare her a glance. He left the video call. "What's wrong?." Samira frowned. "Never mind, he's just angry that you didn't tell him you and bilal are dating. " sa'adatu said. "Oh, I will talk to him later." Sam said. "Good night bappa, good night, sis." Sa'adatu went off. "I'm going to bed." Bappa stood up leaning on his cane. "Good night, bappa," Sam said. "What's wrong with them?, why did they all leave all of a sudden. Anyway, let me go to my room." She stood up and left for her room. Lagos. Ay's apartment. "...do you know how hurt I am right now?." Ay said, speaking to sa'adatu on the phone. "After all the arrangements, everything is going in vain." He said, his eyes getting red . "...thank you so much sa'a, you've always been by my side. Don't worry, I have a gift for you." He smiled. "Goodnight," he hung up. His phone rang, and he picked it up. "Hello...yes...oh, how did you get my number...what?!" He exclaimed in shock. "Okay, thanks," he hung up the phone,his eyes wide in shock. Several months passed, and the contract finally came to an end. Ay was on his way home when suddenly bilal blocked his way. "I see you're back." Bilal said, smiling. "What do you want?" Ay asked clearly annoyed. "I and samira are getting married, and I hope you won't be a stumbling block." Bilal smirked. "Is that all?" Ay asked calmly. "Yes. Here's the invitation card, buddy." Bilal handed him a card and patted his shoulder before leaving. Ay clenched his fist in anger. Samira's apartment. "Where are you going?" Bappa asked samira, who was rushing out of the house. "Ay is back for three days now, and I am not aware." She said, angry. "He told me he even came to pay me a visit." Bappa replied. Bappa said. "But why didn't he tell me he should have informed me." She whined. "Then,you two settle yourselves. " bappa said, waving his hand. Ay's apartment In a playground close to his house,he was surrounded by kids as they were playing ball. "Ay." Samira called. He turned, and their gaze met. Inside the apartment. "Why didn't you tell me you came back?." Samira asked. "Nothing. I see you are enjoying bilal's company." He said, smiling in pain. "Ay, can you stop." She hit him on his chest angrily. "You're someone's wife now,you shouldn't be close to me ." He kept a distance. "Ay,why are you like this?." She asked sadly. "You need something? I will go get you something to drink." He stood up and left for the kitchen. In the kitchen. "Ay held his chest, clutching his chest hard,veins bulging in his head and hands. His eyes became red,the words bilal said to him rang in his ears,repeatedly. 'I and samira are getting married. I hope you won't be a stumbling block.' He crouched down to the cold floor, knocking down a glass to the ground. Samira heard the commotion and rushed to check on him. She entered the kitchen and saw him picking glass . "Are you okay?" She asked. "I'm fine, you can leave. " He said dismissively,walking out of the kitchen. CHAPTER TWENTY SIX. SAMIRA'S APARTMENT. On the day of the wedding, the house was bustling with activities, but the bride was unhappy. She sat in her room with her phone in her hand. "Samira." Sa'adatu walked into her room. She placed her hands on samira's hand, looking concerned. "I haven't heard from Ay since the day I want to see him he has been shutting me out. " she said, looking worried. "Come on, Sam, it's your wedding you don't have to worry. " Sa'adatu said. "Ay is fine, you don't have to worry,ay is fine,maybe he will come later." Sa'adatu added. "Are you sure?." Samira asked. "Yes." Sa'adatu smiled. Several hours passed, and ay didn't show up. The bride was prepared to be taken to the groom's house. She waited anxiously, but he didn't show up. She was pushed into the car, and she continuously stared outside the window to see if she would catch a glimpse of him, but she was disappointed as he didn't show up. After the car left,a dark figure emerged from the crowd,staring at the car. Ay smiled bitterly and walked away with his head down, and a bag hung on his left shoulder . A sentence rang in his ears as he kept on walking. 'I'm sorry, ayuba, but your health is deteriorating. There's nothing we can do about it.' He sighed ,and a tear rolled down his eyes. "At the end, she won't be mine." He smiled bitterly. CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN. A week passed after the wedding. Samira's apartment. "Bappa, I'm going out." Sa'adatu said, rushing out of the house. "Where are you going to like this?." Bappa asked. "I'm going out for a walk." She replied. "Alright,take care. " He said, walking to his room. A restaurant. "...where have you been all this while?" Sa'adatu asked after settling down on a chair. "I'm sorry if I made you all worried. I just left to find peace." Ay replied. "What peace ay?. Wani irin peace ne za ka bar gida. Sam has been worried about you. This is a week, and she didn't hear anything from you." Sa'adatu complained. "I'm sorry I made you all worried. I did it for the best. Actually, I came to tell you something. " He said after taking a deep breath. "What is it?, are you okay?, you look pale." She asked, concerned. "Is there something bothering you?." She asked, and he remained silent. "Talk to me, ay." She said impatiently. "I.. I am sick." He replied after a long silence. "Sick?, what do you mean sick?." She asked, confused. "I have been diagnosed with a heart failure for a long time now." He replied. "What?!." She exclaimed in shock as if struck by a thunderstorm. "Are you kidding me, ay?" She asked, laughing in disbelief. "Here." He handed her a report. "The doctor said my health has deteriorated, and there's nothing they can do about it." He explained. "Why didn't you tell us?." She asked with tearful eyes. "I'm sorry. I don't want to burden you all." He said, smiling bitterly. "You must have been thinking of Sam, right?" Sa'adatu said in between her sobs. "Can you please stop crying?." He gave her a handkerchief. "How can I stop crying?." She wiped her nose. "It's okay. That's why I hesitated whether to tell you or not. " He chuckled. "We're talking of your health here. You're still joking ." She hit his arm lightly. "Oh, sorry, I forgot you're a patient. " she apologized. "It's okay. I don't look weak." He smiled. "If you were with Sam now, your health wouldn't have deteriorated. Sam,I wish you knew of this. Bro, please stay happy and strong for us, okay." Sa'adatu smiled, holding his hands. "I pray I will be able to live with the grief." He smiled bitterly. "Bro, don't say such." Sa'adatu said. "You don't understand. " He smiled. "You've never experienced this. You don't understand how painful it is." He said. "Bro, I'm sorry you have to face all of this." Sa'adatu said, feeling guilty. "It's not your fault. If only he hadn't orchestrated the contract, I would have been with Sam now." He said bitterly with reddened eyes. "What do you mean, 'he' ?" Sa'adatu asked, confused. "Bilal," he said,smiling. "Wait, you mean bilal was behind the contract?" She asked. "Yes." He replied. "He did that to push you far from Sam so he could have her as his bride." She said. "I guess my sa'a is not dumb." He joked. "Oh my gosh. How could he do such a cruel thing? . He just separated two lovers." She said in disbelief. "He's a devil in disguise. " she added. "His sister was the one who told me all this. After the night, we did a video call, and Sam told us about the proposal, I felt hurt. That same night, his sister called me, telling me everything and how he threatened her." He explained. "He's good-looking, but who would have that he has schemes pulled up in his sleeves. " Sa'adatu said, laughing in disbelief. "Tell Sam, I'm sorry for leaving like that. Give her this letter." He gave her an envelope. "What will you do now?,. We should tell Sam and bappa about this." Sa'adatu said. "No, sa'a. Even if we tell them, it won't change the fact that she's already married to him." He said. "If it's for me, oo, I would have told them." she said. "Don't worry, I should start going now. " He stood up. "Going where?" She asked, standing up. "Somewhere far." He chuckled. "Stop it ay, you know well that you have no one other than us as your family. Come back home, okay? " She pleaded. "(Laughs), I'm going to the hospital. The doctor asked me to come." He said, pinching her nose. "Stop it, ay." She slapped his hand. "Shey, you know, say you no well, ba." She said as they walked out of the restaurant. CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ❤️ Samira's apartment. A week later . Laughter was heard coming from the house. Inside the house, sam, bappa, and sa'adatu were chatting happily. "...it's so nice to see you again." Bappa said, smiling. "I'm glad you're happy and healthy." Sam smiled back. "Sis, you look fresh and fat. I bet bilal and family are doing a great job. " Sa'adatu teased. "Hmmm, what do you know?" Sam asked, hitting her head. "I might not know about marriage, but I can see that you're enjoying your marriage ." Sa'adatu replied. "Keep quite joh, better do and marry." Sam said, hitting her on her head again . "Where's ay?." Sam asked after a while. Bappa and sa'adatu looked at each other, looking speechless. "What?, why that look?. I haven't seen him since I got married. " she replied, looking around the house. "He.. he's been busy." Sa'adatu stuttered. "Busy?, what could make him busy that he won't even bother to com check on me?" Sam asked, confused. "Sis.. um.. you shouldn't be bothering yourself about him. I think he has even gotten himself a girlfriend..." Sa'adatu started saying but was suddenly interrupted by a phone call. "I will take this." Sa'adatu stood up and went to the kitchen. After about two minutes, a scream was heard from the kitchen that made bappa and samira stand up abruptly . They rushed to the kitchen . "What's wrong sa'adatu?." They asked in unison. "Ba..bappa.. he .. ay..." Sa'adatu said incoherently. "What are you saying?." Sam asked, confused . "Ay." Sa'adatu replied, pointing to her phone. "You are making me confuse sa'adatu ." Sam said, still confused. "He's gone?" Bappa asked. Sa'adatu just nodded her head in reply. "Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun." Bappa said, putting his hands on his chest with a sad look on his face. "What do you mean gone?" Sam asked. "Somebody answer me!." She yelled. She held sa'adatu's arms, shaking them and demanding for answer. "Ay, sis.. he's dead." Sa'adatu managed to say as she crouched down on the floor. "What?" Sam asked, shocked . "He.. you're joking, right?" Sam asked. Nobody answered her, and she became furious. "Can you stop this joke now?" She asked furiously. "Sa'adatu wipe your tears. Let's get going to the hospital ." Bappa said with red eyes as he exited the kitchen. Hospital. "Are you the patient's family?." A doctor in white coat asked immediately he saw bappa and family. "Yes, doc, where's he?" Bappa replied. "Let's go. We were actually waiting for his family." The doctor led them to the corpse. "The patient had died due to a heart failure. I hope you all know of that. He has been coming here for treatment for over ten years now. He must have been thinking of something that led to his death. I warned him about his heart symptoms when I realized his heart had started to deform. He refused to talk about it, and he said he didn't want anyone to know about it, so I kept it a secret." The doctor explained. "Thank you, doctor." Bappa shook hands with the doc, and the doc excused himself. Sa'adatu sat on a chair crying uncontrollably, and samira just crouched down on the floor, staring at the corpse in daze. After the burial. Samira's apartment. Samira was in her room staring at a picture in her nightstand sadly, when sa'adatu walked in. "Hey, sis." Sa'adatu greeted sitting on the bed. "Hey." Sa'adatu whispered . "Here. He asked me to give you this." Sa'adatu handed her a letter and a bag. "You also knew that he has a heart failure?." Samira asked. "Yes. We all know. He asked us to keep it a secret from you." Sa'adatu replied. "And you should know that he couldn't bear the fact that you're someone else's bride. " Sa'adatu replied before walking out. Sam looked at the departing figure and then the letter. She opened it and started reading. "Hey my love, my gee, my one and only. I hope you're doing great with your husband. I'm sorry for leaving without telling you. I'm sorry for treating you the way I did. I shouldn't have shut you out. I had my reasons, though. I know by now you've known my reasons for what I did. Please promise that you won't cry after reading this cause I don't want to see that ugly face of yours with snots all over. (Chuckles) . Samira, I have always loved you . Since the very day I lost my parents and you took me to your house and your bappa accepted me as his son, I have been in love with you. I remember when you cried the day your stepmother left with a five year old sa'adatu in a fit of rage. You cried, begging her to stay that you needed a mother, I felt hurt. I made a promise to myself never to let you shed tears again. I also cherished the memories we had built up together. I wanted to confess my feelings to you,that's why I told you to remain single till I get back, but I guess he's a step ahead of me. Well, the funniest part was, he was behind my six months contract in lagos. Why? Because he simply wants me far away from you so he could get you all to himself. And I am the poor fool who can't even take of a girl. Well, even with this, I still wish you two happiness. Please don't leave the marriage . I love you, sam." She finished reading it, and she started crying. *I'm hungry, oo* she recalled when ay will always say to her when she's cooking. She recalled the jokes and plays, and he looked at her . CHAPTER TWENTY NINE OF LOVE TRIANGLE 🔺️ ❤️. Bilal's apartment. ".. guys, I tell you, say my club go win this match." Bilal's voice could be head from the living room with his friends as they were watching football. "Forget that thing. Who be man u ." Zayd said, and they started arguing. "So you were behind it ?!" Samira said immediately she walked into the house. "Hey love, you're back." Bilal stood up. "So you were behind it! All this while you claimed to be the holy guy." She said with tears running down her cheeks. "Babe, what are you talking about?." He asked, confused, looking at his friends. "You wanted him far from me, right?" She asked furiously. "Well, you've succeeded. He's gone now. You can have me all to yourself!." She yelled. "I guess this calls for celebration. A round of applause for the Almighty schemer, bilal bala." She said sarcastically and started clapping and laughing in pain. "We'll take our leave now." His friends stood up to leave. "You should stay and watch this. Your friend her really has schemes pulled up in his sleeves. You should be a student of his. " she said to his friends, but they walked away. "Samira, please calm down." He said calmly. "I should calm down? " She asked in annoyance. "So you did all that just to get me. You did your very best to make him not to express his feelings to me, right?." She cried bitterly. "Babe, calm down. i can explain. " he tried to calm her down, but she pushed him. She sat down on a chair and rested her head on her palms. "I now understand my feelings. I feel happy when I'm with him. He's the one I have always loved. If only you didn't come into the picture, I know for sure that by now, he would be alive. He would have told me he loves me and I will readily accept him." She said after a pause. "Babe, don't act rashly. Please let's talk this out. I love you too. I have never fallen in love, and I don't want to get hurt. That's why I did what I did. I swear, i didn't know he would die." Bilal said. "You love me? If you love me, you wouldn't have done what you did. That's not love ." She replied. "I love you, samira." He said calmly, bending down to hold her, but she pushed him away from her. "Don't you dare lay that filthy hands of yours on me!." She said through gritted teeth. "I'm done with this thing. Let's get a divorce. Meet me at my father's house. " she stood up. "Babe, please, stay with me, please don't go." He pleaded, but she left angrily. Samira's apartment "... are you really considering leaving the marriage?." Bappa asked. "Bappa, if he could do something like that, then what else can he not do." Samira replied with tearful eyes. "I know, dear, but please reconsider this." Bappa said calmly. "All I want right now is divorce. " she said with determination. "Ay will be happy if you live happily." Bappa said again. "Ay will be happy if I'm happy, and if I'm happy, then I'm not with that jerk. " she replied. "Sis, don't make decisions that you'll come to regret later. Think this through. I think you're acting rashly." Sa'adatu said. "No Sa'adatu. I love Ay, i was waiting for him to tell me he loves me, but that jerk ruined everything ." Sam said. "You can stay here and think this through. " Bappa said and stood up . CHAPTER THIRTY BALA'S residence. "... we understand that you love the guy, and we also want you to be our daughter inlaw, but we can't force you to be in this marriage either. So we think it's best to hear from you." Bilal's father said as they were all in the living room. "This has been a month since you left. It is best to know if you are really interested in the marriage or not. " his mother added. "I respect you all, and I also thank you all for giving me the opportunity to say my choice. " samira said, smiling. "I'm quitting the marriage. " she said after a pause. The living room fell into deep silence. "It's fine then." His father forced a smile. "I'm sorry for the disappointment. " she apologized. "We knew you won't stay, but we just wanted to confirm. " The old lady smiled bitterly. "If he hasn't done what he did, you wouldn't think of this." The old lady added. "I wish you a good life ahead. " The old lady smiled. "Thank you." Sam smiled back . "I hope to find a daughter inlaw like you." His mother said. A year later, sam was packing some luggage into her car when she caught sight of a familiar figure. "Wait, isn't that ay?." She murmured. "Ay," she called out, and the young man turned to her, smiling brightly. "I'm sorry, I'm Lauren wali." He replied. "Oh, sorry, you look a lot like someone i know." She apilogized. "Wow, is this real?" She asked, rubbing her eyes. "Is cloning real, or is this his look alike?" she murmured. He looked at her in confusion. "Can I get your number?." She asked, handing him her phone. She took a close look at his face and realized that there's differences in him and Ay. He's lighter than Ay . And he doesn't smile much like ay. THE END.