CHAPTER 49

Hafsat's concern for Hamza deepened as she gazed at him, the worry clear in her eyes. She longed to ask him what was amiss, sensing his attempts to mask his true feelings. Just as she was about to inquire, a gentle touch turned her head. It was Adekunle, silently signaling her not to pry into the matter. Hafsat sighed softly, understanding her husband's silent plea. She nodded in acknowledgment, realizing there was a reason he didn't want her to intervene.

At school, Hamza accompanied his sister to her classroom. She persistently questioned him about his peculiar behavior, but Hamza, wanting to shield her from unnecessary worry, reassured her that everything was fine. Zara, however, felt a wave of concern for her brother, realizing that things were not as they seemed. Her inability to alleviate his distress left her feeling helpless. Sensing her brother's unease, she gazed at him intently, seeking assurance. Hamza knelt, meeting her gaze, and tried to ease her worries. "Zara, don't fret about me. I'm just a bit disappointed about something. That's all, okay? Don't overthink it," he said, attempting to reassure her.

Zara observed her brother for a moment, her concern reflected in her eyes. "Are you sure, Brother Hamza?" Her gaze was probing, trying to uncover the truth behind his façade.

Hamza chuckled warmly, appreciating his sister's care. "Yes, let's not be late for your class," he said, guiding her towards the room.

After ensuring Zara was settled, Hamza made his way to his class. As he entered the corridor, his classmates' curious gazes followed him, causing a familiar feeling of déjà vu. Wondering why the entire SS3 class seemed fixated on him, he quickened his pace, aiming to reach his seat. He tried to ignore the attention and searched for David and Abayomi. Spotting them surrounded by a throng of students, Hamza decided to avoid the crowd, quietly taking his place. His thoughts were interrupted when someone called his name.

Abayomi noticed Hamza's reaction and laughed, inviting him to join the discussion. With a self-conscious chuckle, Hamza moved toward them. "What's happening? Why is everyone staring?" he whispered, baffled by the sudden attention from his classmates.

David chuckled, introducing Hamza to the group, and everyone exchanged greetings. Abayomi teased, "Hey, bro, time to get a mobile phone!" provoking light-hearted laughter among them.

Eager to understand the situation, Hamza questioned, "What's all this about?"

David revealed, "We posted pictures with Johnny Drille and a video of you talking with Don Jazzy."

Surprised, Hamza reacted, "Ah, that's why!"

Noting Hamza's subdued mood, Abayomi inquired, "Why the long face?"

Trying to downplay the situation, Hamza responded, "It's a long story, nothing serious."

"Oh come on speak up I might be able to help" This time it was David who talked seeing Hamza looking like he didn't want to share

Encouraged by David's understanding, Hamza decided to confide, "Well, I was hoping for a contract from Don Jazzy after that Saturday, but there's been no response. It's been disheartening."

David's words came as a beacon of understanding. "Ah, I felt that too on that day. I believe he would surely get in touch with you. But hey, let's not dwell on that. Not receiving the contract is an opportunity for your growth. If Don Jazzy doesn't sign you, it doesn't imply that there aren't others out there willing to recognize your talent. You have to learn to face disappointment because the road to fame isn't a walk in the park. Even idols like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Olamide faced tremendous hurdles in their early days, but they persisted, and just look at their global impact now. If one setback puts a halt to your dreams, you need to reassess if this is truly the path you're passionate about pursuing," David expressed, his voice resonating with wisdom born of experience.

Hamza, initially surprised by David's insight, suddenly comprehended that having musical talent wasn't a guarantee of an easy path to superstardom. The realization struck Hamza - the journey to success wasn't a smooth one. His skills were important, but being a superstar involved much more. even with the system and the music from his past world, he understood that he needed unwavering consistency and hard work to prove his worth in this new setting. This revelation instilled in him a changed mindset that would significantly aid him in the future.

Turning to David with a grateful expression, Hamza acknowledged, "Thanks, bro. Your words hit the mark. And I never realized the depth of wisdom you carry up there," he added, laughing at himself.

David chuckled in response. "Glad to see you're back to your usual self. So, what are your plans now?" he inquired, a playful smile on his face.

Hamza met David's gaze, his demeanor more determined. "Well, in my plans, you're a significant part. I have a collection of songs I intend to release, but I know there's a long road ahead. I need to keep refining my singing skills and reach new levels," Hamza shared, realizing that he had yet to check his system in a long time.

"Wow, that's good to hear. So, what's my role in this plan of yours?" David asked, visibly surprised and intrigued by the prospect.

"Hehe, you've got everything it takes. You're great at making beats, so I need your skills to produce the sound for my songs," Hamza replied, answering David's question with confidence.

"Well, that makes sense now that you mention it. I'm also excited to work with you but don't get your hopes up too high. Though I create sound, I can't promise the world," David humbly expressed, acknowledging his strengths but managing expectations.

Just as the conversation delved into their musical collaboration, Abayomi, who had been silent until then, interjected, "Yo, enough about this musical stuff! Hamza, have you noticed Sofia checking you out forever?"

Surprised by Abayomi's sudden shift in topic, Hamza glanced towards his seatmate Sofia and indeed caught her gazing in his direction. A wave from her prompted Hamza to reluctantly wave back, then turned to his friends, his expression perplexed. "I don't understand why I'm getting all this attention from her," he remarked, a touch of confusion evident in his tone.

David chuckled and decided to cut to the chase. "Do you like her?" he asked Hamza point-blank, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Taken aback by the directness of the question, Hamza hesitated, uncertain how to respond. "I don't even know, bro. She's been acting weird lately, and I've never dated anyone before, so I'm not sure," he admitted, trying to process his feelings.

Amused by the situation, Abayomi laughed and interjected, "Come on, bro, it's written all over you. Just accept it."

Hamza nervously scratched his head, acknowledging his growing feelings for Sofia. "Yeah, I think I do like her, but I'm clueless about how to even start that conversation," he confessed, feeling somewhat out of his depth with the unfamiliar territory of romantic interest.

Seeing his friend's dilemma, Abayomi assured him, "Don't worry, my friend, you're covered." Abayomi, with an air of confidence, began giving Hamza advice on how to approach and express his feelings. His advice carried the air of someone experienced in matters of the heart.

As the conversation continued, Kennedy, another friend, walked in and immediately inquired, "What's the gossip, guys?"

Abayomi chuckled and explained everything. Kennedy smirked in his mind, knowing that Hamza was being fooled. Abayomi continued to tell Hamza how to woo Sofia. When the teacher entered, they all went to their respective seats to begin class.

Hamza, who was now in his seat, couldn't fully concentrate on what the teacher was saying at first because he felt Sofia resting on his arm. He couldn't help but feel nervous, but he tried to remain calm. When classes were over, he heard a whisper close to his ear saying, "So Hamza, I saw pictures and videos online with Don Jazzy and Johnny Drille. What is that about?"

Hamza felt a rush of heat upon sensing Sofia resting on his arm, causing a mix of nervousness, and felt his little brother waking up. However, he managed to maintain composure and respond to her question. Their conversation flowed naturally, providing a pleasant distraction from the day's academic activities. He escorted her to get her lunch, engrossed in their chat, which made him completely forget about meeting his friends during the break.

As the day drew to a close, Hamza bid Sofia goodbye, and as he turned, he noticed his friends giving him curious looks, sparking a sudden realization. He had completely forgotten to catch up with them during the break.

Amused by the situation, Abayomi strolled up to Hamza and, in a light-hearted manner, teased him, "Lover boy, did you forget about us?"

Hamza chuckled, trying to clarify, "No, bro, it wasn't like that. I was just engrossed. She was sharing interesting things I didn't know about her."

David dismissed the topic, redirecting the conversation, "Alright, enough about that. Just make sure you remember our plans for this Saturday. I'm coming over as we discussed."

"Of course, I won't forget something that important. You can count on me," Hamza assured David, sharing a light chuckle.

Kennedy, feeling slightly irritated by the situation, expressed his impatience, "Can we leave now? It's closing time, and I have other things to do."

The tinge of irritation in Kennedy's tone hinted at his discomfort, realizing Hamza's growing connection with Sofia, who happened to be Kennedy's girlfriend.