BINTU

About this Novel

She is a 17-year-old girl, and her appearance clearly reflects her rural upbringing. She wears a long dress and holan, with her modern attire fitting loosely on her body. Instead of wearing tight pants, she covers her hair and secures the tails of her pants around her neck. Her face is devoid of wrinkles, but it carries a visible expression of sadness. Her life in the city feels restrictive, as her guardian, Mami, forbids her from using makeup or lipstick, believing her natural beauty is sufficient. She associates with boys, similar to her friends back in the village, as she strives to balance her life with studies, including a certificate she dislikes. Even her faith in Islam pushes her towards pursuing success in another certification. She paused upon reaching the main hall of Mami's house to call Aunt Asma'u, as per Mami's instructions. However, she noticed Aunt Asma'u sitting closely with Yaya Ma'aruf, engaged in a quiet conversation. She squinted to see their faces, and to her surprise, Yaya Ma'aruf appeared relaxed, even smiling broadly, revealing his teeth. There was no visible distance between the two of them.