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After the Imam left, Usman told her everything that had happened. She was extremely surprised — investigations had already been completed about Usman without her ever knowing.
Two days after Imam Malik’s departure, Usman prepared to say goodbye to Mufidah because he was traveling to Kano to begin preparations for the bride price and wedding expenses.
He arrived in Kano planning to stay for one week, but before the week ended he received a call from the bank where he used to work — he had been reinstated and was asked to resume duty. He saw the email, received text messages, and even phone calls confirming it. Colleagues like Sulaiman called to congratulate him. Murjanatu and Mufidah also called, celebrating and sharing in his joy. Usman was extremely happy and grateful.
He immediately informed his relatives and friends, and everyone celebrated. Fatiti had suffered during his unemployment — the comfortable life she once enjoyed had become difficult — so she was very happy too. However, deep inside she felt uneasy because she knew his new income might be used to marry another wife.
She began asking Usman many questions and begged him to request a transfer back to Kano, but he didn’t respond — he had no time to explain things.
Fatiti realized she had lost Usman emotionally; she felt he only kept her around for the sake of their children and family ties. She believed his heart now belonged to Mufidah.
From Usman’s perspective, it was almost true — he remembered many painful actions Fatiti had done to him, while Mufidah treated him with respect and caution despite her wealth and education. She was careful not to upset him, often shy and reserved, while he encouraged her to be open with him.
He felt that with Fatiti he had endured hardship, but with Mufidah he expected a peaceful marriage.
He returned to Bauchi and resumed work. He received all his owed salary — a large amount — which helped him begin wedding preparations and support his children, who had been out of school for a year. He enrolled them in a good school in Kano and arranged transportation for them. Fatiti was pregnant, so he set aside money for her as well.
Meanwhile, Mufidah’s family prepared for the wedding on a larger scale. Suddenly Fatiti heard that elders — including her own father — had traveled to Bauchi to deliver Usman’s bride price. She cried heavily and caused scenes at both families’ homes, speaking harshly to anyone who advised her.
Even her close friends who had encouraged her jealousy turned against her, gossiping behind her back. She lost her husband’s affection, her dignity, and her respect among neighbors and relatives.
Eventually she began reflecting alone and realized jealousy had brought her nothing but loss.
She called her friend Safiya, who was also facing marital trouble. Safiya revealed that her husband planned to marry Murjanatu Bibi and was building luxurious homes for her. Both women regretted not continuing their education and becoming independent.
Meanwhile, Usman refused to live in houses provided by Mufidah’s wealthy family; he preferred renting his own home until he could build one himself.
Wedding plans continued. Usman delivered the bride price and set the wedding date for three months later, waiting until Fatiti gave birth and he completed preparations. He took a bank loan and gave Mufidah money and rented a large house for her. He also provided Fatiti with money, gifts, and baby items, which made her feel relieved and hopeful again.
A month later Fatiti gave birth safely to a beautiful baby girl. Surprisingly, when Usman asked what name she wanted, she chose “Mufidah.” Usman was shocked and asked her to repeat it in front of both families because the decision was significant.
Fatiti called everyone herself and confirmed the name. People were amazed but happy, offering prayers and blessings.
Usman embraced her with gratitude and emotion. Both of them cried tears of happiness.
Later, Murjanatu and Mufidah called to congratulate them. When Usman revealed the baby’s name, they were shocked and laughed in surprise. Fatiti herself spoke on the phone, apologizing to Mufidah for past wrongs and asking for forgiveness. Mufidah forgave her warmly, and they all prayed for peace between them.
Usman reflected deeply on past misunderstandings and felt strong compassion and love for Mufidah, resolving to make her happy in their marriage.
Before the naming ceremony, Mufidah sent expensive baby gifts and clothing. The family celebrated generously, slaughtering animals and feeding guests in gratitude.
Afterwards, Usman returned to Bauchi to finalize wedding preparations. Homes were decorated beautifully, and the weddings of Usman & Mufidah and Dr. Isa & Murjanatu became widely known across Bauchi.
However, Jalilah — upon hearing the news — became extremely jealous and angry. Since Usman refused her calls and avoided her, she decided she would confront Mufidah face to face and warn her to leave Usman alone.
