As he unloaded the items from his bag, his face shone with brightness and happiness, and his body reflected that he was doing so with all his strength and effort. His wife and the mother of his children stepped out, looking at him with great surprise upon seeing him at this moment. She looked up at the sky, wishing she could measure time, estimating that it was around three to four in the afternoon. She gazed at the pile of items he had brought, showcasing her astonishment openly at his presence. It was noon, and he usually only visited them after about two weeks of work; he would stay for one day and then return, repeating this cycle every two weeks. Today marked the sixth day since he had returned, but here he was with loads of items.
As he stepped into the courtyard, carefully setting down his heavy bag, she adjusted her expression slightly, crouching down to receive the large box he was trying to unload from his bag while she managed to smile and said, "Is that really you?" Looking at the items he had brought, she reverted her gaze to him and asked, "Is all this for us? I hope everything is alright?"
He finished unloading the last item from his bag, which he then carried to a storage area that was distant from their living quarters, where they had kept their animals when they had previously gone for grazing. He set it down on a mat he had spread for himself, exclaiming, "Thank God!" She went to fetch water and brought him a heavy cup filled with liquid, placing it in front of him as she sat beside him, letting out a relieved sigh as she greeted him this time in their native language, saying, "Dehina metahi." (Welcome back)
He drank the water heartily, nodding to her in affirmation as he responded, "Thank you, how have you all been? I’m happy to see you all well." She replied, casting him an inquisitive look, as she was still not completely at ease upon seeing him; he was home unexpectedly. Usually, with the intense authority of the Dela monarch over their workers, she rarely saw him outside of their occasional planned visits, which generally occurred every two weeks. However, now he appeared unexpectedly, after a long absence.
She took a deep breath, ready to speak, but he anticipated her, resting his gaze on her with a demeanor that reflected his maturity as he said, "Jamila, I know you’re worried about my sudden appearance right now. Please calm your heart; I’m home now, and everything is fine. Nothing has happened as you might fear. I’ve returned entirely this time by God’s grace; now I’ll have my freedom and will live with you and our family in peace."
She let out a sigh; all her body felt cold from his words, which she knew were not just superficial but had a deeper meaning. She gathered her courage and raised her voice softly, looking at him and asking, "NEGES?" He paused, lowering his gaze slowly, sensing her concern; he nodded slowly and replied, "Yes, negestati."
Taking a deep breath, she felt an overwhelming sense of fear; her heart raced, and she lowered her head as her eyes began to well with tears. He looked directly at her, knowing she was struggling with her emotions.
