Shaheed’s eyes bulged as he looked at Hafees, who was also staring back at him in a state of shock and confusion, unable to speak. In less than two seconds, Shaheed’s eyes changed color from white to fiery red. Hafees quickly grabbed his hand, shaking his head to signal him to calm down. Shaheed closed his beautiful eyes, feeling his heart pounding violently as if it would burst out of his chest. Slowly, Hafees stood up, helping Shaheed to his feet, and they quietly slipped out of the mosque. Only Harun noticed their departure. Dady remained silent, as did Abba and Abbey. The younger Dady just nodded in acknowledgment, indicating that he also didn't find their father's actions appropriate and that a better approach should have been sought. However, Baba Malam was all smiles, shaking hands with everyone, receiving blessings. After the wedding ceremony dispersed, everyone went their separate ways. Baba Malam instructed his children to gather at his house later in the afternoon, along with their families. Everyone agreed and went home. Dady was the first to return home, finding all the children in the general parlor. They greeted him respectfully, but to their surprise, he only acknowledged them with a wave of his hand and went straight to his room. Seeing this, Ghaisha followed him, puzzled. “Alhaji, what’s going on? You seem different. Are you okay?” she asked. “Humm, it’s a serious issue, Zulaihah, something very troubling that has me worried. I really don’t like what happened, but there’s nothing I can do about it.” “Innalillahi, what happened, Alhaji?” Ghaisha asked, eyes wide with shock. “Baba Malam just arranged Shaheed’s marriage to Lubnah right now,” he said, disheartened. “A marriage? Alhaji, without any notice? In broad daylight? And Shaheed? Did he know about this marriage?” she asked. “No,” he replied briefly. Ghaisha was silent, sympathizing with her son. Although she wanted Shaheed to get married, she preferred he choose his own wife. Seeing her silence, Abba took her hand, and she looked up at him slowly. “Please accept the decision my father made for your son, Zulaihah. I know it’s not easy, but support me in obeying him. Don’t let Shaheed see your disapproval, because if he sees you’re unhappy, he definitely won’t accept it either. Please do me this favor,” he said. Ghaisha smiled, trying to be brave. “I’m not against the marriage, Alhaji. I’m just surprised at the abruptness. I also want Shaheed to settle down and start a family like his siblings. Don’t worry, if this marriage is good, may Allah bless it. If not, may Allah choose what’s best for him,” she said. Dady sighed in relief. “Ameen, may Allah accept our prayers,” he said. “Also, after the Asr prayer, Harun will take you to Baba Malam’s house. We are to meet there as he instructed.” “Alright. May Allah guide us this afternoon,” she replied. “Ameen.”