2 July @marinnewest's Freewrite Writing Prompt Day 2786: Ethnic.

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This is my post for #freewriters2786 #dailyprompt ethnic hosted by @marinnewest's.
In Umuahia's busy market square, the aroma of pineapples and mangoes blended with that of jollof rice and egusi soup. Young Adannaya, whose eyes were like polished obsidian, arranged her colourful Ankara fabrics with care. The Igbo family she was with had been trading textiles for many generations, and their stall was a rainbow of colours and designs.
A Hausa merchant named Yusuf was carefully stacking pyramids of dates and kola nuts across the square. His stall was a well-liked meeting spot for news and light-hearted conversation, and his loud laughter frequently broke through the market clamour.
A sudden downpour one hot afternoon sent shoppers running. Unprepared, Adannaya fought to conceal her clothing. Without hesitation, Yusuf ran over and helped her pull a big tarp over her valuables with his powerful hands.
She said, "Thank you, Yusuf," in a slightly breathless voice.
He gave a smile. "Adannaya, we are all under the same sky. Whether you are Hausa or Igbo, the rain does not care."
They became friends after a simple act of kindness during their shared moment. They started telling each other stories, Adannaya about lively village celebrations and ancestral spirits, and Yusuf about ancient caravans travelling across the Sahara. They found common ground in their respect for tradition, love of family, and hope for a prosperous future.
As is often the case, rumours started to circulate. Some whispered that their closeness was inappropriate, while others said that a union between their tribes was impossible. Strengthened by their growing affection and respect, Adannaya and Yusuf decided to follow their hearts.
Their narrative, which demonstrated the strength of our common humanity over apparent differences, evolved into a subdued protest against the prevalent biases. A new story, one woven with strands of friendship and understanding, was gradually taking root in Umuahia amid the bustle of commerce, demonstrating that harmony could blossom even in the most unlikely of settings.