CHAPTER 33

The next morning arrived with the first light of dawn, and Hamza awoke to a new day. He looked around his room, almost expecting this to be a dream. But as he gazed at the familiar surroundings, he knew it was real. This was his new home, and for the first time in a long time, he felt a sense of belonging.

Hafsat, his new mother, entered the room, her warm smile instantly putting Hamza at ease. "Breakfast is ready, Hamza," she announced softly, her eyes filled with a motherly warmth. "But first, you should brush your teeth and get ready."

Hamza nodded and went through his morning routine, his heart filled with gratitude for the warm family that had taken him and his sister in. As he joined the others in the dining room, he couldn't help but think of his biological parents. He whispered a silent prayer to them, hoping they were in a better place.

"Come and sit, Hamza," Hafsat beckoned, and he obeyed, taking a seat at the table. The room was filled with the comforting aroma of breakfast, and his sister, Zara, was already seated, looking equally delighted by their new family.

Breakfast was a simple yet delicious affair, with rice and stew on their plates. The siblings exchanged glances, their smiles saying it all: they were happy.

Once they had finished, Hafsat reached to clear the plates, but Hamza was quick to stand, refusing to let her do the chore. Hafsat smiled warmly and acquiesced, recognizing the deep sense of gratitude and attachment the siblings were feeling.

Adekunle, their adoptive father, broke the pleasant silence. "We're going shopping today," he declared, his eyes brimming with excitement. "We'll get both of you new clothes and everything you need for school. So, get ready."

Hamza and Zara's faces lit up with anticipation. Zara, being her lively self, exclaimed, "Okay, Uncle!" before dashing back to her room, clearly thrilled.

Hamza was more composed but equally eager. He looked at Adekunle and replied, "Alright, sir. I'll get ready."

A little later, the four of them were in the car, headed to the mall in their white Vensa. The drive took about 45 minutes, during which Adekunle and Hafsat asked Hamza and Zara about their preferences. They wanted to make sure the children would be comfortable and content.

As they arrived at the mall, with "Shoprite" gleaming in bold letters, they parked and made their way inside. The first stop was the clothing section. Hamza accompanied Adekunle, while Zara stayed with Hafsat.

Hamza was utterly fascinated by the variety of clothing. Adekunle seemed to have a keen sense of style and picked out several items, turning to Hamza to ask if he liked them. This shopping spree continued for about half an hour before they completed their selection.

Now it was time to find Zara and Hafsat. As they navigated the mall, a girl approached Hamza, her friendly demeanor catching him off guard. She had a playful air about her, with a black wig and a fair complexion. She was as tall as Hamza's chest, and she had an aura of someone free-spirited and confident.

Hamza exchanged surprised glances with Adekunle, silently asking for guidance. Adekunle chuckled and turned away, giving Hamza the space to handle the situation. The girl's presence left Hamza momentarily dumbfounded.

"Hello," the girl greeted, her voice warm and inviting.

Hamza found his voice and replied, "Hello. What can I do for you?"

With a sly smile, the girl responded, "Nothing. I just wanted to tell you that you look handsome." She paused for effect before continuing, "Can I have your number?"

Hamza was taken aback. He knew he was a good-looking guy, but he didn't expect someone to approach him so boldly. He considered his words carefully and replied, "Thank you. You look beautiful too. I'd love to give you my number, but I don't have a phone, so..."

The girl's smile remained, and she handed Hamza a piece of paper, bearing the words "Call me." She walked away, joining her friends.

Hamza stood there, holding the paper, shaking his head in disbelief. His newfound family soon came into view, and he hurried towards Adekunle, looking like he was ready to unleash his anger.

"Uncle, why did you leave me alone there? That's not nice!" Hamza's tone was half-playful, half-serious.

The family couldn't help but laugh, and Adekunle replied, "Well, you'll encounter such situations in life, Hamza. I wanted you to experience it firsthand. Welcome to Lagos!"

After successfully shopping for clothes and essentials, the family returned home, their hearts filled with joy and anticipation. Hamza and Zara couldn't stop smiling during the entire ride. It was a stark contrast to the life they had known just a short while ago.

In the back seat of the car, Hamza's mind drifted to his parents, the ones he had lost but would never forget. He muttered to himself, almost in a whisper, "Mom and Dad, we are being taken care of wherever you are. I hope you've found a better place."

His silent prayer was a testament to the love he still held for his parents, even as he embraced this new chapter of his life with his adoptive family. As the car approached their home, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the second chance he had been given, and a sense of hope began to bloom in his heart.