BEYOND THE HAREM

Aliyah's eyes fluttered open, greeted by the warm glow of the morning sun streaming through the ornate windows of her family's opulent mansion. She lay in bed, feeling the softness of the luxurious bedding, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing inside her. As the daughter of Alhaji Abdulrahman, a wealthy merchant with three wives, Aliyah's life was complex. Her mother, Aisha, the third wife, had passed away shortly after giving birth to her. The pain of her loss still lingered, a constant ache in Aliyah's heart. Growing up, Aliyah struggled to find her place within the sprawling family. Her father's other wives, Hajia Fatima and Hajia Nafisa, had their own children, and the dynamics were often tense. Aliyah felt like an outsider, always walking on eggshells to avoid conflict. "Aliyah, get up! Your father wants to see you," her older half-sister, Jamila, called out from the doorway. Aliyah sighed, throwing off the covers. She donned her hijab and made her way to her father's quarters. As she entered, Alhaji Abdulrahman looked up from his prayer beads. "Aliyah, my child, I have important news. Your cousin, Ahmed, is coming home from his studies abroad. We will host a grand celebration." Aliyah's heart sank. Another opportunity for her family to parade their wealth and status, while she felt invisible. "Yes, Father," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Alhaji Abdulrahman's expression softened. "Aliyah, I know you've struggled since your mother's passing. But you must learn to navigate our family's complexities. Your future depends on it." Aliyah nodded, though her mind rebelled. Why must she conform to expectations? Why couldn't she forge her own path? As she left her father's quarters, Aliyah felt the weight of her family's legacy bearing down on her. Little did she know, Ahmed's return would set off a chain of events that would change her life forever. That night, Aliyah's unease deepened. She couldn't shake off thep mysterious text message or the impending arrival of Cousin Ahmed. As she lay in bed, her thoughts swirled like a vortex. Just as she drifted off to sleep, her phone rang. The screen illuminated, displaying Hajiya Fatima's name. Aliyah's heart sank. What did her stepmother want now? "Hajiya Fatima?" Aliyah answered hesitantly. "Aliyah, you lazy girl!" Hajiya Fatima's voice dripped with venom. "You didn't do the chores today. The living room is still messy!" Aliyah explained, "I was busy with my studies, Hajiya. I'll do them tomorrow." But Hajiya Fatima wouldn't listen. "You're always making excuses! You're a witch, Aliyah! You cursed your mother to death!" Aliyah's eyes stung as tears welled up. "That's not true, Hajiya! Mother died of illness!" "Shut up, you lying girl!" Hajiya Fatima screamed. "You're the reason for all our problems! If you weren't born, your father would still love us!" The verbal assault pierced Aliyah's soul. She felt like she was drowning in her stepmother's hatred. "Stop, Hajiya! Please!" Aliyah begged, tears streaming down her face. But Hajiya Fatima continued, her words slicing deeper. "You're worthless, Aliyah! No one wants you! Your father only keeps you out of pity!" The call ended abruptly, leaving Aliyah shattered. She curled up, sobbing uncontrollably. Khalid's concerned voice echoed from outside her door. "Aliyah? Are you okay?" Aliyah struggled to compose herself. "Y-yes, Khalid. Just... just a nightmare." But Khalid wasn't fooled. He entered her room, finding Aliyah's tear-stained face. "Who was it?" Khalid demanded, his eyes blazing with anger. Aliyah hesitated before revealing the truth. "Hajiya Fatima... she said terrible things, Khalid." Khalid's expression darkened. "I'll talk to Father. This ends now." Aliyah grasped Khalid's hand. "No, Khalid. Please don't. It'll only make things worse." Khalid's face twisted in frustration, but he nodded. "I'll protect you, Aliyah. Always." As Khalid hugged her, Aliyah felt a fleeting sense of safety. But the wounds from Hajiya Fatima's words still throbbed. The next morning, the mansion stirred to life. Aliyah woke up early, still reeling from the previous night's conversation with Hajiya Fatima. She tried to shake off the lingering emotions, focusing on her daily routine. After performing her morning prayers, Aliyah began her chores, tackling the kitchen and living room with renewed determination. Khalid joined her, working in silence as they cleaned and organized the spaces. Meanwhile, Hajiya Fatima and Hajiya Nafisa busied themselves with their own tasks, their animosity toward Aliyah palpable but unspoken. Jamila and Aisha lingered in their rooms, avoiding the morning chaos. Alhaji emerged from his quarters, his expression stern as he made his way to the study. He spent several minutes on phone calls, discussing business and politics with his associates. Once finished, Alhaji headed out to pick up Ahmed, the cousin they were expecting. Aliyah watched from the window as his car disappeared into the distance. "Khalid, do you think Cousin Ahmed will be nice?" Aliyah asked, her curiosity getting the better of her. Khalid smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, Aliyah. Cousin Ahmed is a good guy. You'll like him." But Aliyah's apprehension lingered. What would this new arrival bring? Would he side with her stepmothers and half-sisters, or would he offer a neutral perspective? As the morning wore on, the household's tension grew. Everyone awaited Alhaji's return with Ahmed, unsure what the day would bring. Suddenly, the sound of cars pulling up outside broke the silence. "He's here," Khalid announced, glancing out the window. Aliyah's heart skipped a beat. Cousin Ahmed had arrived. As the family gathered in the living room, Aliyah's nervousness intensified. She smoothed her hijab, ensuring it was perfectly in place. The door swung open, and Alhaji entered with a tall, dark-haired young man. "Everyone, this is Ahmed," Alhaji announced, beaming with pride. Ahmed smiled warmly, exchanging greetings with the family. Aliyah's initial impression was positive. Ahmed seemed kind and genuine. However, Hajiya Fatima and Hajiya Nafisa exchanged skeptical glances, their expressions unreadable. Jamila and Aisha whispered to each other, eyeing Ahmed with curiosity. Khalid, on the other hand, warmly welcomed Ahmed, the two exchanging a hearty handshake. As they all sat down, Aliyah noticed Ahmed's gaze lingering on her. She felt a flutter in her chest. "Ahmed, tell us about yourself," Alhaji encouraged. Ahmed shared stories of his university life, his passion for business, and his love for football. Aliyah found herself laughing at his jokes, feeling an unexpected connection. But Hajiya Fatima interrupted, her tone sharp. "Ahmed, we expect you to uphold our family values during your stay." Ahmed nodded respectfully. "I understand, Hajiya. I'll ensure my actions reflect well on our family." Aliyah sensed tension beneath the surface. Aliyah expertly chopped vegetables, the aroma of sautéed onions and bell peppers filling the kitchen. She hummed a soft tune, lost in her thoughts. The kitchen door swung open, and Ahmed entered, heading straight for the fridge. "Water," he muttered to himself, retrieving a chilled bottle. As he closed the fridge door, his gaze fell on Aliyah. "Ah, sorry. I didn't mean to intrude," Ahmed said, smiling. Aliyah's cheeks flushed slightly. "It's okay. I'm just cooking dinner." Ahmed's curiosity got the better of him. "What's cooking? Smells amazing." "Chicken stew and jollof rice," Aliyah replied, stirring the pot. Ahmed approached her, his eyes scanning the kitchen. "You're quite the chef, Aliyah. I'm impressed." Aliyah's smile widened. "Thanks. I enjoy cooking." Ahmed leaned against the counter, watching her work. "May I ask, what do you like to do besides cooking?" Aliyah hesitated, unsure how much to share. "I... I like reading, listening to music, and drawing," she said softly. Ahmed's interest piqued. "Drawing? What kind of art do you create?" Aliyah's passion ignited. "I love sketching portraits and landscapes. It helps me relax." Ahmed nodded enthusiastically. "I'd love to see your artwork sometime." Aliyah's heart skipped a beat. No one had ever shown genuine interest in her art. As they chatted, the kitchen transformed into a cozy space, filled with warmth and connection. Ahmed's curiosity about Aliyah grew. "So, Aliyah, what are your plans after secondary school?" Aliyah paused, stirring the stew. "I'm currently in SSS3, art department, at a boarding school." Ahmed's eyes lit up. "That's great! Art is a wonderful field. Do you have any specific goals in mind?" Aliyah's expression turned wistful. "I'd love to attend a university, study fine arts, and become a professional artist." Ahmed nodded encouragingly. "That sounds amazing. Have you considered any particular universities?" Aliyah shrugged. "Not really. My father wants me to attend a local university, but I'd love to explore options abroad." Ahmed's interest deepened. "Abroad, huh? That's bold. What drives your passion for art?" Aliyah's face brightened. "Art helps me express myself, escape reality, and connect with others. It's my sanctuary." Ahmed smiled warmly. "I understand. Art has a way of transcending boundaries." As they conversed, Aliyah felt a sense of ease with Ahmed she hadn't experienced before. Just then, the kitchen door swung open, and Hajiya Fatima entered. "Ahmed, your uncle needs you in the study," she announced, her gaze narrowing at Aliyah. Ahmed nodded, reluctantly leaving the kitchen. "Nice talking to you, Aliyah. Maybe we can continue later?" Aliyah smiled softly. "I'd like that." As Ahmed departed, Hajiya Fatima lingered, her disapproval palpable. Hajiya Fatima's eyes narrowed, her voice dripping with disdain. "Aliyah, what were you discussing with Ahmed?" Aliyah hesitated, sensing danger. "Just small talk, Hajiya." Hajiya Fatima's expression darkened. "Don't play dumb with me! I know you were flirting with him." Aliyah protested, "No, Hajiya! We just talked about art and school." Hajiya Fatima's hand shot out, her fingers grasping Aliyah's arm. "Listen, girl. You're not worthy of Ahmed's attention. He's here for family business, not to indulge your foolish fantasies." Khalid stepped forward, his voice firm. "Mother, leave Aliyah alone. She's done nothing wrong." Hajiya Fatima's face twisted in rage. "How dare you interfere, Khalid! This doesn't concern you." With a swift motion, Hajiya Fatima slapped Khalid's face, her eyes blazing. "You'll learn to respect your elders and mind your own business." Khalid's cheek reddened, but he stood firm, his eyes locked on his mother. "You have no right to hurt Aliyah, Mother. She's innocent." Hajiya Fatima's voice turned icy. "You'll regret defending her, Khalid. Mark my words." With that, Hajiya Fatima stormed out of the kitchen, leaving Aliyah and Khalid shaken. Aliyah rushed to Khalid's side, concern etched on her face. "Khalid, I'm so sorry. Are you okay?" Khalid's expression softened, his eyes reassuring. "I'm fine, Aliyah. Don't worry about me. Are you alright?" Aliyah nodded, still shaken. Jamila and Aisha sauntered into the kitchen, their faces twisted in mockery. "Khalid, the hero," Jamila sneered, rolling her eyes. "Defending Aliyah, as always." Aisha chimed in, "Mother was right to slap you, Khalid. You're too soft on Aliyah." Khalid's expression remained calm, but his voice held a hint of warning. "Leave Aliyah alone, Jamila. Aisha. This has nothing to do with you." Jamila snickered. "Oh, but it does. Aliyah thinks she's so special just because Ahmed talked to her." Aisha taunted, "Yeah, Aliyah, you're just a charity case. Father only keeps you out of pity." Aliyah's eyes stung, but Khalid's protective instincts kicked in. "Enough!" Khalid thundered, his face inches from Jamila's. "You'll respect Aliyah." The kitchen fell silent, the tension palpable. Just then, Ahmed entered, his expression questioning. "What's going on?" Ahmed asked, sensing the unease. Khalid's gaze never left Jamila. "Just a family discussion, Ahmed." Ahmed's eyes narrowed, his attention shifting to Aliyah. "Aliyah, are you alright?" Ahmed asked softly. Aliyah nodded, her voice barely audible. Khalid gently grasped Aliyah's arm, guiding her away from the toxic atmosphere. "Let's get out of here," Khalid whispered, his eyes locked on hers. Aliyah nodded, grateful for his intervention.