KAWANCEN MU 1 Complete Hausa Novel

The two friends were walking together, both dressed in niqabs that covered their faces as they chatted. Even I couldn’t hear exactly what they were saying. They were wearing long coffee-colored hijabs that touched the ground, along with socks and matching shoes. They stopped at a corner, lifting their niqabs.
They were beautiful young ladies. One of them looked at the other and said, "Inayah, we’ll meet again later. I’ll come by your house." The one called Inayah looked at her and replied, “Intisar, so I brought you all the way home, and you won’t even walk me back?”
Intisar laughed, “Well, of course not. Yesterday, I walked you all the way home, so it’s payback time. I’ll head my way, and you should do the same.” They laughed, bid farewell to each other, and went their separate ways.
When Inayah reached her home, she found her mother waiting. She knelt to greet her respectfully, asking how everything was at home. Her mother smiled warmly and replied, “Welcome, Inayah! I actually wanted to send you somewhere. Go freshen up and eat something, then come back.” Inayah agreed and started to leave.
Her mother blessed her, saying, “May Allah bring you success and keep you safe.” With her mother’s heartfelt prayer ringing in her ears, Inayah felt deeply grateful as she went to her small room nearby. She removed her niqab and hijab, along with her socks, and set her bag down. She was quite beautiful, with fair skin and a medium build, wearing a green blouse and skirt made of soft fabric. She washed up, performed ablution, prayed, ate her meal, then headed out on the errand her mother had given her.
Intisar, meanwhile, had entered her own home after navigating the busy streets. This house was noticeably different from Inayah’s; it was filled with luxury. She greeted her mother, Hajiya Indo, then went to her room. After performing her prayers, she sat down to have a meal with her mother, chatting about Inayah.
In the evening, Intisar went over to Inayah’s house. As she approached the door, she saw Inayah returning, balancing a small bag on her head. Intisar laughed. Inayah looked at her and said, “Honestly, Intisar, I thought you wouldn’t come, which is why I didn’t tell you anything.”
Intisar laughed again, “Well, what did you think? After I promised you, I was just finishing up something. Let’s go inside.” They entered Inayah’s home together, greeting her mother cheerfully before heading to Inayah’s room.
Sitting down with a sigh, Intisar said, “Oh, Inayah, I’m so tired!” Inayah looked at her and laughed, “You’re tired just from coming over here?” Intisar shrugged, “Of course, it’s exhausting!”
Changing the topic, she continued, “Now, about Zayyah’s outfit…”
Inayah shook her head, saying, “I really don’t have the money for that right now. We didn’t make any sales this week, and my mother has been unwell.” Intisar smiled and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll figure it out. Let’s just go to the market together.” With that, they told Inayah’s mother they were leaving and headed to the market.
Inayah lived in the vibrant, green surroundings of Katsina, specifically in Malumfashi Local Government Area. Her father, Malam Mukhtar, was the imam of the mosque nearby. He was married to Amina, a native of Malumfashi, and they had struggled with childlessness for five years before Inayah was born. Four years after her birth, Malam Mukhtar developed kidney disease. Although he sought treatment, the doctors couldn’t help him, and eventually, he passed away. Since his death, neither his family nor anyone else came to check on Inayah and her mother, and Amina had chosen not to remarry.
Intisar, on the other hand, was the only daughter of Alhaji Sammani, a businessman from Funtua, who had moved to Malumfashi for work. His wife, Hajiya Indo, was his only wife and a wealthy woman with no regard for the poor. She saw herself as above them, believing that poverty was something she could never associate with.
Inayah and Intisar met in Islamic school and became friends as children. Their friendship puzzled many, but Inayah rarely visited Intisar’s house due to the disdain Hajiya Indo held for her. Although Intisar didn’t know, one day Hajiya Indo insulted Inayah terribly, and Inayah left feeling humiliated. When she returned home, her mother comforted her and advised her to be patient, reminding her not to hold any grudges against Intisar. From then on, Inayah only visited Intisar’s home when she knew Hajiya Indo wasn’t around. 
The two friends headed to the market together, chatting and laughing as they went. The market was bustling with activity, filled with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and fabrics. As they strolled through the market, Intisar noticed a stall selling beautiful dresses.
“Look at those dresses, Inayah! We should definitely check them out,” Intisar exclaimed, pulling Inayah toward the stall.
They browsed through the colorful fabrics and dresses, marveling at the designs. Inayah picked up a lovely blue dress, admiring its embroidery. “This is beautiful, but I don’t think I can afford it,” she said, putting it back down.
Intisar, however, had a different idea. “I’ll buy it for you! You deserve something nice,” she insisted, pulling out her purse. Inayah protested, saying, “No, Intisar, I can’t accept that. It’s too much.” But Intisar wouldn’t take no for an answer.
“Just let me do this for you. It’s a gift from me to my best friend,” she said, handing the money to the vendor. Inayah’s heart swelled with gratitude, and she couldn’t help but smile.
After leaving the market, the girls returned to Inayah’s house, where her mother was waiting. Hajiya Amina looked at her daughter and Intisar, a smile on her face. “How was the market, my dear?” she asked.
“Wonderful, Mama! Intisar bought me a dress,” Inayah replied, her excitement bubbling over. Hajiya Amina’s eyes widened in surprise.
“Really? That’s so generous of her!” Hajiya Amina said, turning to Intisar. “May Allah bless you, my dear.”
They spent the evening together, chatting and enjoying each other’s company. Inayah showed her mother the new dress, and Hajiya Amina admired it, saying it was lovely.
Pages 5 & 6
The following day, Inayah and Intisar decided to visit the local park. The park was a beautiful place, filled with trees, flowers, and a small pond. They found a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the fresh air.
As they sat there, Intisar turned to Inayah. “You know, I really value our friendship. You mean a lot to me,” she said sincerely.
Inayah smiled. “I feel the same way, Intisar. You’ve always been there for me, especially after my father passed away. I don’t know what I would have done without you.”
Intisar nodded, her expression turning serious. “I want you to know that no matter what happens, I’ll always be here for you. You can count on me.”
Inayah felt a warm glow in her heart. “Thank you, Intisar. That means the world to me.”
They spent the rest of the day talking, laughing, and making plans for the future. They dreamed of going to university together and achieving their goals.
Pages 7 & 8
As days turned into weeks, their friendship grew even stronger. They supported each other through thick and thin, sharing secrets and dreams. But life wasn’t always easy.
Inayah often struggled to help her mother with household chores and taking care of their needs. Some days, there wasn’t enough food to eat, and they had to rely on the kindness of neighbors. Despite these challenges, Inayah remained hopeful, knowing that she had Intisar by her side.
One day, as they were studying together, Inayah received a phone call from a relative. Her aunt informed her that her mother was ill and needed immediate medical attention. Panic gripped her heart.
“What’s wrong?” Intisar asked, noticing Inayah’s sudden change in demeanor.
“My mother is sick, and I need to go home,” Inayah replied, her voice trembling.
“Let’s go! I’ll come with you,” Intisar said without hesitation.
They rushed back to Inayah’s house, where her mother lay on the bed, weak and pale. Inayah’s heart sank as she rushed to her side. “Mama, what happened?” she asked, kneeling beside her.
Hajiya Amina managed a weak smile. “I’m okay, my dear. Just a little tired,” she said softly.
But Inayah could see the worry in her mother’s eyes. They took her to the hospital, where the doctor examined her. The news was not good; Hajiya Amina needed treatment that they couldn’t afford.
Pages 9 & 10
Inayah felt crushed. “What are we going to do?” she whispered, tears streaming down her face. Intisar, seeing her friend in distress, squeezed her hand reassuringly.
“Don’t worry, Inayah. We’ll find a way,” she promised.
They brainstormed ideas, and Intisar suggested they organize a fundraiser at school. “We can ask our classmates to contribute. I’ll help you talk to the teachers,” she said determinedly.
With renewed hope, they presented their plan to their classmates, and the response was overwhelming. Everyone wanted to help, and soon, they organized a fundraising event.
On the day of the event, the school was filled with excitement. Students set up stalls selling food, crafts, and games. Inayah and Intisar worked tirelessly, their spirits lifted by the support they received.
When the day ended, they raised enough money to cover Hajiya Amina’s treatment. Inayah felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. “I can’t believe this! Thank you, everyone!” she said, tears of joy in her eyes.
Intisar beamed with pride. “We did it together, Inayah! This is what friendship is all about,” she said, pulling her friend into a tight hug. 
Inaya stood there, wrapped in a scarf and a shawl, while Hajara sat on a chair. As Inaya recalled what had happened today, the thought that she had seen the doctor made her turn around to calm herself. The doctor had just come out, and she returned to him, murmuring, “Doctor, how are you?” He looked at her and said, “You brought her in, right? Give her an answer.” “Please, let her go to my office,” the doctor said. “Okay, Yallabai.” She turned and looked at Hajara. “By Allah, Maman Saif, let me go and return.” “Alright, Inaya, but I’m also going home. I know Saif and the others must be back from school now.” “Okay, Maman Saif, thank you.” They exchanged greetings, and then Inaya headed to the doctor's office. When she arrived, she found him seated and greeting her. She entered and said, “Yallabai, I see you.” He looked at her, saying, “Yes, what’s bothering you?”
She replied, “The high blood pressure has risen significantly, but we have managed to lower it now. So, you should hurry and get this medication now.” She received the prescription and expressed her gratitude, then rushed to the pharmacy. After she submitted the prescription, they prepared the medication for her. The pharmacist looked at her and said, “By the way, your medicine costs 8,000, but I see you gave me 2,000. Take your money with your prescription and continue.” She did what she could and left, heading towards her neighborhood to return home. Then she remembered what had happened regarding the fire in her room with her friend Intisar. She entered Inna’s room, looking for money, but found nothing upstairs or downstairs. After searching, she didn’t know how she would ask their neighbor for help. She entered Hajara’s house and saw her sitting down, performing ablution.
“Are you okay?” Inaya asked Hajara.
“Yes, Maman Saif, please help me with a loan of 6,000. I need it to buy medicine for my mother,” Inaya pleaded.
“Haba, Hajara, I am also looking for 6,000. I swear I have no money.” “So be it, Maman Saif, nothing can be done until later,” Hajara replied. She leaned back, thinking about where she could find that money. Hearing Hajara’s words surprised her greatly. She left and returned home that night, searching the neighborhood for a loan of 6,000 but encountered obstacles from those surrounding her who merely wished her well. Her lack of success prompted her to head to the doctor’s office.
She knocked on the door, and he answered, allowing her to enter. But she found him seated with someone who turned his back to her. The doctor said, “Yes, Inaya, you’ve returned. Where is the medication?” Her eyes filled with tears. “Please, doctor, help me!”
“What do you mean?” he asked.
“I mean, I can’t afford the medication.” The doctor replied, “Remember, my job is to save lives. I truly can’t help, so please leave.” She was pleading, but he insisted she leave. The man seated turned around; he had strikingly beautiful large eyes, a handsome first-year student look, and gazed at her path. He turned to the doctor and said, “Haba, Zubair, I didn’t expect you to be like this. Remember, Ikram, I don’t have the means to pay for her medication, and this is only for one week, not permanently.”
Ikram, the one who had been called, replied, “Good, no problem. I’ll buy the medication from here until she feels better.” The doctor said, “No, what you did is correct.” “Ikram, it’s nothing; Allah will increase your blessings.” Ikram laughed, saying, “You wouldn’t believe it, but I’m going to send you my account number so I can transfer the medication money, God willing. May Allah keep us healthy. Amen,” the doctor replied. Ikram then left with the doctor.
Inaya stood there, wanting to call him, but he was busy. She then realized he had already returned. The doctor Zubair called to her. “Inaya, give me that paper.” With a cheerful spirit, she handed it to him, noticing he was heading toward the pharmacy. That made her wipe the tears from her face. At that moment, a nurse appeared, speaking to her. She stood up and entered the room where Inna was waking, feeling weak.
Seeing her mother made Inaya burst into tears. “Inna, I can’t do it!” At that moment, Dr. Zubair entered, checked her, and saw she was stable. He left the medications for Inaya and said, “Make sure she eats, and then give her the medicine, and come to my office to find me.” “Okay,” she replied, thanking him. Then she remembered she hadn’t brought food. Inna asked, “Inaya, didn’t you bring food?” “I went to fetch something,” she responded. “Okay, Inaya, hurry up.” “I will,” she replied, turning to leave.
Intisar was sitting on a chair, watching her mother. “Umma, I have decided that tomorrow I will make Inaya’s life difficult,” she said. “Let her know she’s crossed me.” Intisar smiled, and Hajia Indo said, “Well, Inaya, I see you’re working hard with a girl who’s poor, and she knows it. You’re treating them kindly, but they will repay you by making your life hard.”
Intisar smiled, saying, “I’m telling you now, you will regret it if you get back to me.”
Inaya returned just as everything was wrapping up, so she headed to Dr. Zubair’s office. He explained everything to her, and she kept thanking him. This surprised him, almost making him cry as he struggled to send her off. He smiled as he dialed Ikram’s number. “Check your WhatsApp; I’m sending you something.” “Okay,” he replied, and after 2 minutes, Ikram called on hands-free.
“Hello, Ikram,” Zubair said. Ikram replied, “Zubair, this prayer of thanks you sent me is very helpful.” Zubair smiled and said, “It’s me, you remember the girl I sent money for her medicine earlier? That’s what I’m talking about.” “But check and see what kind of prayer she is making for you,” Ikram said, laughing loudly. “Alright, Zubair, now you can follow them and see where they live. If they are dismissed, and if you want anything they need, let me know.” “Okay, Ikram. That’s what Dr. Zubair just said,” he ended the call.
The next day at 10 AM, Dr. Zubair released Inaya and the others. Seeing them leave made him say, “No, wait, I will take you because you see she’s not well.” Although Inaya tried to stop him, he insisted he would take them because of the work Ikram assigned them. He headed towards their neighborhood. From a distance, Inaya saw people, murmuring, “Indeed, we belong to Allah and to Him, we shall return.” Inna asked, “Are you okay?” but she replied, “Inna, it’s nothing.” Inna, filled with anxiety, asked, “So, is this what you mean by coming to me now? You say you’re sorry, but you’re treating me like this?” Despite her thoughts about the people she saw at their house, parking was done at Dr. Zubair’s.
When Ikram stepped out, she was filled with frustration as people outside began to block her path. What she saw shook her so badly that she wanted to know what was going on. “Let’s go,” she said, but everything was sprawled on the ground as if nothing was happening. She jumped in and murmured, “Intisar, what did I do to deserve this? Why are you treating me like this?”
In a spectacular fit of rage, she went into her bag and pulled out all the things she had. Zubair noticed Inaya and told her, “Inna, don’t come out, I’m coming.” “Okay,” she replied as he approached Inaya to ask her questions, but she said it was nothing. “Now, don’t let Inna know; if she finds out, she might die.” “So, Inaya, what happened? I’ll tell you what happened now, but I’m on my way,” Inaya said, though he kept asking her where she was going, but she rushed into the car, and he followed her.
Inna, seeing her near, prompted him to give her a sleeping pill due to the promise he made to Inaya.
As Inaya arrived at her house, she entered directly, while Zubair followed her, calling after her. She walked into the sitting room, where she found Intisar. Inaya looked at her with tears streaming down her face. “Now you’ve paid me back, Intisar. Why are you treating me like this? The things in our house are hard to deal with. You’ve caused this trouble for me.”
Intisar smiled, saying, “I didn’t know, Inaya. I think you know better than anyone what you’ve done to me. I told you, if I see you, I will take revenge.” “Indeed, Inaya, you have crossed a line, and my father has never let anyone insult my mother, even though you have!” Inaya wiped her tears, saying, “I appreciate it; Intisar, you should know that there is Allah. And this is the fruit of our friendship. Thank you.”
Turning away, Intisar stopped her and said, “Now, you must know that I will put this game to an end. If not, I swear I will make sure you don’t live peacefully.” She turned away, and Inaya saw Dr. Zubair standing there. He called her over, thanking her, saying, “Let’s go back and drop Inna. You go ahead, we’ll save you time.”
They returned home, and Inaya said, “Just leave us here, Dr. It’s okay.” He looked at her with sympathy but said, “No, Inaya, if I leave you here, where will you stay? I’ll take you to a better place.” She started crying, saying, “It’s nothing, Dr. We have no one in this city, and my relatives have all died due to the fire that occurred. My father’s family hasn’t been seen in over 12 years.”
As she spoke, he bowed his head and turned toward the car to head to another neighborhood. He stopped at a small house, asking her to take the keys and stay there, saying, “I’ll return shortly, God willing.”
Inaya looked at him, saying, “Please don’t make me a burden. Here’s the money for the medication and your help.” Dr. Zubair smiled, saying, “It’s nothing, Inaya. Everything will be easy; you’ll stay here. God willing, I won’t make you a burden. I’ll come back shortly to find out how things went. Please be careful.” She answered, and he dropped them off. Inna kept looking around at the house, wishing she could ask Inaya but also wanting to stay.
Hafsah was sitting and laughing when Intisar walked in. Hafsah left, and Intisar said, “Now I want us to be friends. I know you don’t like Inaya, but I want us to make a deal to stop her.”
“I don’t want to be involved in that,” Hafsah replied with a smile.
“Okay, this is easier than anything; I just want to know when we will start because, honestly, I can’t stand Inaya.”