Title: Jihar Kano
There was a lot of activity in our house. My mother and I were in the kitchen, preparing various dishes for the arrival of our cousin, Yaya Deen. He is the son of my father's brother, who passed away along with his wife in a car accident on their way to Jigawa. Yaya Deen was left with a substantial inheritance, as his father was wealthier than mine. After the accident, my father took him in and raised him from a young age. He is now studying in England and has been there for six years. Though we've kept in touch by phone, he hasn't visited until now, having just finished his studies.
Yaya Deen and I were very close before he left for England. We had a strong bond, and I loved him dearly, just as he loved me.
"Aunty Jamila, Yaya Deen is here," someone announced.
I quickly left the kitchen, running to get ready. I hadn't done my makeup yet, though I had taken a shower to freshen up after working. My mother laughed as she continued cooking, knowing how much I adored Deen.
I dressed meticulously in a stylish outfit, a beautiful T-shirt and jeans adorned with flowers. I styled my abundant hair with a ribbon, and being naturally pretty, I looked even more charming, like a doll. I didn't bother with makeup; instead, I sprayed myself with an exquisite, luxurious perfume. I then put on my high heels and checked myself in the mirror. Satisfied with my appearance, I headed out.
Yaya Deen had been eagerly scanning the room for me since he arrived. Walking gracefully, as if reluctant to touch the ground, I made my way to the living room.
My perfume reached him before I did. With open arms, Yaya Deen invited me for an embrace. I felt shy, realizing that the ten-year-old girl he left was now sixteen.
"Come on, my lovely sister, I miss you," he said.
I found myself replying, "I miss you too, Yaya Deen," with a hint of playfulness.
I threw myself into his arms, sitting on his lap. He felt something new and intense, an unfamiliar emotion for his little sister. He closed his eyes, then opened them to take in my appearance, observing me from head to toe, savoring every detail.
