The city of Kaduna was drenched in rain on a Thursday evening. The downpour was heavy, as if it intended to pierce through people’s roofs. This unexpected rainfall drove many to seek shelter from the relentless downpour. Rain, a blessing from God, had temporarily halted daily activities. The streets of Kaduna, specifically the Boye area, were filled with people seeking refuge from the rain, which seemed unrelenting.

Observing the public spaces during this rainy evening, one would notice that people were bundled up in warm coats or blankets. Those who were more vulnerable, such as the elderly and children, huddled together in corners or shelters to escape the rain.

Alhaji Lukman, comfortably seated in the driver’s seat, continued driving down the wet road. His demeanor showed no sign of fatigue or irritation, even in the midst of heavy traffic. He gazed out of the window at the rain-slicked streets and contemplated colorful thoughts.

As he continued driving, Alhaji Lukman couldn’t help but feel a sense of weariness due to the stagnant traffic. He longed to reach his home, located in the Rimi neighborhood complex, where he could enjoy the rain in comfort. He hoped that the rain wouldn’t cause further delays, as he was eager for his son, Isha’i, to join them on the way.

Glancing at the car’s clock, which displayed half-past seven, he couldn’t shake the feeling that they were running late. The traffic on the bridge showed no signs of easing, prompting him to consider alternative routes. He looked at his son, Sultan, who appeared lost in thought, staring out of the window. In the rearview mirror, he noticed his wife, Hajiya Salma, engrossed in a newspaper.

Alhaji Lukman decided to change course, descending from the bridge onto Kasa Road, in hopes of finding a faster route. He was more concerned with reaching home than staying stuck in traffic.

Hajiya Salma, who had been reading the newspaper, observed her husband’s decision to change direction. She watched as the car altered its course, indicating their intention to head toward Mando. This change in direction meant they would likely spend the night there.

Their eldest son, Sultan, who had been gazing out of the window, continued to look at the road as if he wanted to remember something. He relished the rain, which brought him great joy.

Since leaving Jaji, not a single word had been spoken in the car. The family members were known for their quiet nature. They cherished silence and meaningful conversations, and the absence of noise in their home was a testament to this disposition. Even visitors were expected to be quiet and respectful when inside their house.

Sultan, now feeling the urge to urinate, asked his father to find a place to stop near the bus station. Hajiya Salma, concerned for her son’s health, suggested they go straight home instead. She believed that squatting in public restrooms could lead to illness.

However, Alhaji Lukman decided to find a suitable spot for Sultan to relieve himself. He pulled over the car, and Sultan got out to find a place to urinate while his father watched. The family continued their journey, navigating through the rainy streets of Kaduna, each lost in their own thoughts and the tranquility of the moment.