Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Yasmin stifled a yawn as she tried to shake off the heaviness weighing down her body. Getting ready for work already feels like a battle this morning, especially when the bed called her name louder than her alarm. Her entire body is against this.

It had always been her dream to have a job she loved, to wake up knowing her efforts would be rewarded at the end of the day. But as much as she likes the feeling of purpose, she couldn't deny that today, all she wanted was a few more hours of sleep.

The decoration event she was handling was only five days away, and though she was exhausted, she knew the venue needed to be inspected. She knew about the job just two days ago and hadn't rested since the wedding.

She couldn't afford to slack off, not when this opportunity was a dream she'd once thought impossible. She had to make it work. If she wanted to escape this life, there was no room for laziness. She's got many goals.

Her gaze lingered on her sister Seema, who was still curled up in bed blissfully unaware of the world outside. Siyama had been granted a short break from the Wambai mansion, and even her project supervisor hadn't been on her tail for a minute.

She deserved this rest, Yasmin would be the first to admit it. But that didn't stop her from feeling a pang of jealousy. This is what she has to sacrifice for the life she's always dreamt about.

As if on cue, Siyama's iPhone lit up with a ping. The sleek black device sat by the socket, drawing Yasmin's attention. It wasn't just any phone... It was the iPhone she was gifted from none other than Mahmud.

She didn't have to guess who sent the message; the name was ingrained in her mind, though she still playfully referred to him as "kosai guy." She doesn't want to forget the roots of all the sweet romance blooming between them.

Yesterday, their father had come home and asked about the mountain of gifts scattered around the house. There was no way to hide them, not that Siyama even tried. She wanted everyone to know she was in love with her man. That is a sign to know Yasmin wants to Love.

Yasmin smiled recalling how peppy her sister had been when describing the thoughtful man behind those gifts. They shared everything in this house, and Siyama was no exception.

Unable to resist, Yasmin peeked at the notification. She told herself she wasn't prying —it was just there, glowing temptingly on the screen. Curiosity wouldn't let her leave without checking.

Mahmud: Good morning, my love. Damn, that sounds so good, but I love calling you Seema. Anyways, have you dreamt about me? Nah, you're not awake. Must be dreaming about me. How are the cramps today? I miss you.

A soft aww slipped past Yasmin's lips before she could stop herself. Her eyes sparkled at the sheer sweetness of it. This —this— was what she meant when she talked about relationship goals.

Not that she spent much time thinking about love, ambition had always been her focus. But lately, someone has disrupted that single-mindedness. She has her focus on something other than working.

Whisperwind.

The thought of him made her grin. She still wasn't sure where they stood —he was maddeningly reserved— but her heart was already dancing ahead. She'd have to call Murad later, he always had a way of offering clarity, and there was plenty to discuss.

Yasmin pulled out her suitcase, still unpacked, filled with Bushra Amani's exclusive outfit collection.

Amani was her go-to, and these pieces would be perfect for work. She chose a raven-black A-line dress with a notched collar and elegant bell sleeves. After slipping it on, she glanced in the mirror, her beam bright and confident.

There is no day she would wear something made by Amani that she won't feel like the whole world is beneath her. Okay, maybe not the world but definitely Unguwan Rimi.

For makeup, she stuck to her signature look of kohl-lined eyes and a touch of lip gloss. She wrapped a black jersey scarf around her head, smirking as she imagined her mother's warning against black.

"Don't wear too much black, Yasmin! Aljanu loves black!" But some habits were hard to break.

She stepped into her loafers and headed to the living room, where her mother was already finishing up breakfast. Yasmin's stomach growled, but a bigger smile spread across her face, this meant she didn't need to stop by Baba Mai Kosai's spot.

They ate in silence, Yasmin savoring the calm. Though she was known for her chatter, some mornings demanded quiet. After finishing, she took the plates outside and washed them, enjoying the crisp morning air.

"Come here for a second," her mother called, her tone serious.

Yasmin froze mid-step, curiosity pricking at her. She hadn't done anything wrong, or at least, nothing she could remember. But even if she had, her parents were her best friends and she had no reason to fear them.

She joined Fatima on the floor, sitting cross-legged beside her. Her mother hadn't looked this serious in a long while so whatever this was, it needs Yasmin's undivided attention.

"Is everything alright?" Yasmin asked, her voice steady but soft.

Fatima sighed, her hands resting on her lap as she looked Yasmin in the eyes. "It's about your father's business, Baby."

"What happened?" Now Yasmin is worried even though she is trying to hide it.

"His vegetables spoiled. You know how kind he is —he's given people credit all over the market, and they haven't paid him back. He barely has anything left to sell now." Fatima explained licking her chapped lips.

"Was that why he looked so tired yesterday?" Yasmin's heart clenched. Their dearest hardworking father.

Fatima nodded. "Yes. He didn't want to tell you because he doesn't want to disrupt your plans. But I had to say something. I know you wouldn't want to be left in the dark."

"Maa! Why would he even think that? The money is in his account, he should use whatever he needs, please." Yasmin said her brows furrowed wondering why they had to ask. What is hers is theirs!

"Are you sure?"

"I can't believe you're asking this! Why are we working if not for you and Dad?" Yasmin looks like she is ready to throw herself out of an eight storey building.

"What about starting your own business?"

"I don't have to do everything right now. One million is a lot of money, I can manage. And Madam Gloria is ready to help, you know that." She let out an exasperated breath.

Fatima smiled, squeezing Yasmin's hand. "I also wanted to tell you this, don't sell that phone they gave you. It's a gift, and you deserve to enjoy it. You and Siyama can match now."

Yasmin chuckled. "I was thinking the same thing. Murad even said I need to start taking better pictures of my decorations if I want to attract an audience."

"He's right." Fatima's amusement glinted in her eyes as she asked, "By the way, who is Whisperwind?"

Yasmin groaned, her face flushing. "Maa! I'll tell you later. I can't believe I haven't told you about him yet. Hmm, just know he's definitely going to be your future son-in-law."

"Ikon Allah! This one that all of you are in love at the same time. You mean to tell me you are leaving me all alone at the same time?" Fatima laughed as Yasmin rushed to the door.

"Yes!" Yasmin called out with a grin. "Start planning our wedding soon."

Fatima chuckled, her laughter soft and warm, as she shook her head. "Allah kiyaye hanya," she prayed under her breath.

She returned to the bedroom and picked up her phone, dialing her husband. When he answered, his voice was heavy with fatigue. That alone made her want to go to the market herself.

"She told you?" he asked after a pause, his tone a mix of exasperation and surrender.

"She did. You know Yasmin can't bear to be kept in the dark, especially when it comes to helping you. I told her everything."

"Fatima, we shouldn't burden the children—"

"If you knew how hard these girls work just to make life easier for us, you'd understand," she cut him off gently but firmly. "Please, take as much as you need. Don't say anything about returning it; it would break her heart. She wants to help, and you should let her."

He sighed, and she heard the rustle of fabric as if he were rubbing his temple. "Alright. But I'll only take what's necessary."

Fatima smiled, her heart lighter. "Good. Trust her, Suraj. She's doing this out of love."

Yasmin hailed a tricycle outside, rattling off the address to the driver. The ride was quick, the morning sun casting a golden glow over the streets of Kaduna. She loved this city more than Abuja no matter how much people obsess over it.

As they pulled up in front of the building, Yasmin's breath caught. The structure was beautiful, modern yet grounded in an elegance that felt oddly familiar. She couldn't quite place why, but something about it felt right.

It was just nine in the morning —perfectly on time. She stepped inside, her loafers making no sound against the polished tiles. The air was cool as the air conditioner blew from everywhere. It's so posh.

Approaching the receptionist's desk, Yasmin noted the young man sitting there. He was in his mid-twenties, neatly dressed, with a bright smile that lit up his face when he saw her. His gaze lingered a bit too long, making her shift uncomfortably.

"Good morning. I'm Yasmin. I'm here to meet Anas Madaki," she said, her words spilling out faster than she intended.

"Good morning, Yasmin. I'm Ameer," he replied smoothly, standing up. His smile widened, and she swore he leaned in slightly. "Mr. Madaki will soon be here. Let me escort you."

Before she could respond, a voice from behind her interrupted. A voice she thought she had hallucinated. Deep and smooth and achingly familiar.

"Don't worry. I'll take her." The voice said, quiet but commanding.

Yasmin froze, her heart skipping a beat. She turned sharply, nearly tripping over her own feet, and there he was. Whisperwind.

"Whisperwind?" she blurted, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes wide in disbelief.

He arched a brow, his lips quirking ever so slightly. "You're here to see Anas?" His gaze swept over her, lingering just long enough to make her toes curl in her shoes.

All Yasmin could do was nod, her mind scrambling to process his presence. She tried not to stare but her eyes betrayed her, roaming over his figure. He was dressed in a tailored brown suit that hugged his tall, lean frame, an ivory shirt beneath it.

The top two buttons were undone, revealing a teasing glimpse of his bronze skin. His casual confidence was magnetic, though she noticed the way his gaze flitted away from hers, a subtle hint of shyness she found oddly endearing.

"Follow me," he said, clearing his throat, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallowed.

Yasmin smothered a grin as she trailed after him, her mind racing. Shy??? How adorable is that?

She glanced back briefly at Ameer, who stood frozen behind the desk, his gaze still fixed on her like a forlorn puppy. She suppressed a laugh and focused on Whisperwind. He is her type. The shy reserved ones.

They entered the elevator, and to her delight, they were alone. Unable to help herself, she studied him unabashedly. He seemed more polished today, but the quiet intensity she admired about him was still there. Finally, she broke the silence.

"Uh, do you work here?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Yes," he replied, his tone clipped but not unfriendly.

"Wow. No wonder this place feels familiar," she mused. "You designed it, didn't you?"

He hesitated, his brow furrowing slightly. "Kind of."

"I knew it!" she exclaimed, her eyes lighting up. "There's something about the design, it has your touch. It's brilliant, by the way."

"Thanks," he murmured, glancing at her briefly before looking away.

Yasmin smirked. "You know, one day, when I can afford it, you're going to build my workplace for me. And our home too."

His head jerked slightly at her words, his gaze snapping to hers. But before he could respond, the elevator dinged, and the doors slid open. Yasmin followed him into a quiet corridor, the space so still it felt almost sacred. They passed a couple of empty desks before reaching a door at the end of the hall.

He opened it, stepping aside to let her in. "Here you go," he said, his voice low, his expression unreadable.

Yasmin turned to him, her lips curving into a teasing smile. "Thanks, Whisperwind. I'll be sure to tell Anas you're my personal tour guide."

Yasmin waited in the office for another ten minutes, but no one showed up. Just as she was about to stand and go ask what was happening, the door swung open, and Abdullah walked in carrying a small taslim.

"Uh, I'm sure you're not Anas Madaki," she said, settling back into the chair facing the massive desk. "Where is he?"

"He had an emergency and won't be coming in early," Abdullah replied, placing the taslim down on the desk. "I can walk you through the details of the project instead."

"Are you also the boss?" she asked, raising a skeptical eyebrow.

"Yes, sort of," he replied, looking down at his phone.

"Okay..." she trailed off, giving him a long look, trying to figure out just how sort of he was.

For the next thirty minutes, Abdullah read out the details Anas had sent him while Yasmin stored them to memory, occasionally chiming in with her own suggestions. He jotted these down, intending to share them with Anas later when he arrived.

The fact that he had scheduled the meeting for nine, knowing full well Anas wouldn't show up until ten, made Abdullah feel strangely out of character. He had already agreed to attend the event just to see her, but now he was rearranging meetings to cross paths with her again?

Once they finished going over the plans, Yasmin leaned back in her chair, a mischievous glint in her eyes. She had an idea and decided to test the waters. You just never know.

"So," she began casually, "that receptionist downstairs, any chance he's single? He doesn't look married to me."

"He's engaged," Abdullah replied without missing a beat.

"Engaged?" She raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "Isn't he a little too young for that?"

"No. He's twenty-five."

"Hmm. Young. Right around my type." She smiled, watching him closely.

"He's taken though," Abdullah said firmly, his tone even but his gaze sharper now.

"Well," Yasmin stood, brushing imaginary lint off her sleeve, "have a nice day, Whisperwind. It's always a pleasure seeing you." She paused, her voice softening into something almost teasing. "I can't wait to show you my magic."

She turned and walked away, leaving Abdullah staring after her, unsure whether she was serious, or just trying to get under his skin. Either way, it was working.

How are you all? Alhamdulillah I have finished my exams so I'll be more active here and thank yall for your prayerssssss❤️ Allah bar zumunci🤭

Anyways I am ready to up this game o. Drama go soon start. Are you ready??? If you're not starting getting ready🥳

QOTD: Would you rather have unlimited money but no friends or lots of friends but always struggle financially? Unlimited money no friends🤣 I have family bruh