A luxurious Mercedes-Benz sped along a beautifully paved road, moving so fast it looked like it might lift off the ground. Other cars had already pulled over, because they knew exactly who owned that car — none other than their prince, Abdul-Jabbar. That confirmed to everyone that he had returned to town.

At an elegant gate, he pressed the horn loudly. The guards quickly opened it and bowed, even though they could not see him clearly. He drove swiftly into the palace, took a turn into another beautiful road, and continued a long distance until he reached the parking area where his father’s cars were kept. He parked neatly, almost hitting a chair beside him.

He and the man beside him stepped out looking nearly identical — except that Abdul-Jabbar was fairer. Their outfits matched, both shining clean. Holding hands, they walked forward. Amfal looked at him and said:

“Bro, you really need to slow down. Wallahi I didn’t think we’d reach home safely. I actually thought we’d end up at a hospital. I swear I thought the car was about to jump!”

Abdul-Jabbar only smiled and continued walking without replying. They entered their father’s palace, where the guards opened the door immediately and bowed deeply, removing their shoes for them.

Their father, upon seeing them, smiled warmly and stood up, embracing both of them tightly. They heard him sigh softly — he deeply loved these handsome, noble sons. His constant prayer was that Allah would keep them united.

They sat with him in the middle. He took an apple from the fruit tray, raised it toward Abdul-Jabbar’s mouth, and Abdul-Jabbar did the same for Amfal. Amfal took a bite, then gave one back to Abdul-Jabbar. Their father ate last. After they were done, he set the apples aside.

Looking at them lovingly, he said:

“May Allah bless you, my sons, protect you from enemies, and grant you righteous wives with good character — just like yours.”

"Ameen, our father. Thank you. May Allah reward you with goodness," they replied.

He nodded, just as a woman entered. She looked at them once, then fixed her gaze on Abdul-Jabbar. In her mind she said:

“So you came back for three whole days and still didn’t come to see me? You want to separate me from him? Because you don’t know a mother’s love? Wallahi, you won’t succeed.”

Sensing the way she was staring, Abdul-Jabbar spoke in a voice that always unsettled her:

“Welcome, Ammi. I hope you are well.”