Bella her dog, lay stretched out on the sofa beside her, head resting gently on Teni's lap. With her left hand, Teni almost absently stroked Bella's soft fur, her fingers moving in soothing circles. Her right hand held a glass of red wine as she watched the news flicker across the screen. Bella, eyes closed, sighed contentedly at the rhythmic touch. The room was still, save for the murmur of the television.
The upcoming United States elections dominated the news. Presidential candidates were barnstorming the country, their campaigns in full swing.
Teni had a soft spot for the incumbent president, though she knew many Americans vehemently opposed him. His outspoken stance against LGBT rights, his controversial immigration policies, and his impulsive social media presence fuelled the opposition's desire to see him out of office. Yet, as Teni watched the footage of his crowded rallies, she couldn't shake the feeling that he still commanded significant support, despite the barrage of accusations against him and his party.
A sudden thought tugged at her memory – her promise to call her mother. Rhoda, true to her nature, would never let a promise, given or received, slip through the cracks.
Teni reached for her phone, lowering the television volume with the remote. She dialled her mother's number, and the phone rang several times before Rhoda answered.
"Hello, Dolly," Rhoda's voice came through, strained with the sound of a child's frantic cries in the background. Earphones dangled from her ears, the phone tucked into the pocket of her denim shorts as she tried to soothe little Lizzy. But her daughter was inconsolable.
"Hello, Mum. What's wrong with my girl?" Teni had never heard her stepsister cry so intensely.
"She's just impatient. The food can't come quickly enough for her," Rhoda explained.
"Couldn't you have prepared it earlier and kept it warm?" Teni couldn't help but ask, a hint of judgment in her tone.
"Don't mind me. I forget it's not Dolly. Dolly could wait forever without a peep," Rhoda chuckled. As if on cue, Lizzy's cries intensified, prompting Rhoda to pick her up for a comforting cuddle.
"Well, I don't think I'm quite like that anymore," Teni responded, a wry smile playing on her lips. She lowered the television volume again as the president's supporters erupted in cheers on the screen.
"That's a lie, my dear. It's the same patience that's made you wait this long with Jim without a proposal. Do you even realize it's been over three years? Most women wouldn't wait that long, you know?" Rhoda smoothly shifted the conversation, a tactic Teni always dreaded.
Having finished with Lizzy's meal, Rhoda placed the feeding bottle in the baby's mouth. As if an orchestra conductor had signalled silence, Lizzy's wails ceased immediately. Cradling her daughter, Rhoda moved towards the baby's playpen.
"Mum, why must every conversation we have circle back to marriage proposals and engagement complaints?" Teni sighed.
"Because you're not getting any younger, my dear," Rhoda said, removing her earphones and switching the phone to speaker mode. Reaching the playpen, she gently placed Lizzy inside. The little girl clutched her bottle and began to suckle contentedly, a sign of her growing independence as her first birthday approached.
"I suppose you want me to do the proposing since Jim isn't," Teni retorted, a hint of playful resignation in her voice. She turned up the television volume to catch the president's address to his supporters.
It took Rhoda a moment to reply. She was arranging the small table beside the playpen where she kept Lizzy's belongings.
"Of course, that's what smart girls do these days with men who lack the courage to do what they should. Three years is far too long to wait for a proposal. Your patience isn't a virtue in this situation," Rhoda stated frankly.
"Then I'm going to disappoint you, Mum. I'm not one of those girls who would propose to a man. That's just… weird," Teni said firmly, deliberately steering the conversation towards politics. "Who are you voting for in the upcoming elections?"
"The incumbent president, of course. Why do you ask?" Rhoda knew Teni's change of topic was intentional, but she had made her point and was satisfied.
"I'm watching him on CNN right now. He's giving a short address at the New York rally," Teni said.
"Many dislike him for his policies, but he still has my vote," Rhoda said, walking over to turn on her own television.
"I appreciate his stance on same-sex marriage and his refusal to grant visas to potential threats to the country," Teni said, turning to Bella. "Bedtime, girl."
"Bella, go to bed," she murmured, and Bella obediently rose and padded out of the living room towards the bedroom.
"Those are the very reasons so many people despise him," Rhoda pointed out.
"Why do people consider same-sex marriage acceptable? Such acts are frowned upon in Africa," Teni said, rising and walking towards the kitchen. She took out a bottle of water and returned to the sofa, twisting off the cap and taking a long drink.
"Those advocating for same-sex marriage right here in America would label Africans as primitive for opposing it. That's the sad irony of so-called civilization!" Rhoda walked closer to the phone, picked it up, and moved to open the door for her husband, who had just rung the doorbell.
"Africans have a more sensible approach to life than much of the world, Mum. They may lack the Western world's infrastructure due to gross corruption by their political class, but their cultural values are incredible. I've been here for two years, and I can say that with certainty. I have to go now, Mum. Nature calls," Teni stood up, feeling the sudden urge to use the bathroom.
"Alright, goodnight, and give my regards to Jim. I pray he finally wakes up," Rhoda replied.
"Amen," Teni laughed heartily.
She knew exactly what "slumber" her mother was referring to – Jim's continued failure to propose. Her mother hadn't changed a bit. Teni couldn't stop the laughter bubbling up at her mother's parting shot.
Rhoda opened the door for Andrew and received a loving kiss. She took his briefcase and carried it to his study. She followed the principles her own mother had instilled in her, and she had never regretted it. The modern, independent wife lifestyle held no appeal for her. She would adhere to her mother's traditional beliefs, even if they seemed old-fashioned to some.
"Men are like babies. Treat them that way, and you'll bring out the best in them," her mother had often said. And her marriage to Andrew had been a testament to that philosophy.
"Who were you talking to on the phone?" Andrew asked.
"It was Dolly," Rhoda replied.
Rhoda returned to the living room and was about to head into the kitchen to bring dinner to the table. She always waited for Andrew to eat with her, unless he was away or his work kept him late. She cherished their mealtime conversations, believing they were an essential thread in the fabric of their marriage.
"When is she planning to visit the States?" Andrew asked, loosening his tie as he walked towards the bedroom to change. He wanted a shower before dinner.
"She hasn't said yet," Rhoda answered, continuing her dinner preparations.
"It would be lovely to have her here for the holidays," Andrew said sincerely. He had looked forward to meeting Teni ever since he married her mother.
"She's eager to meet you too," Rhoda replied, a small white lie.
In truth, Teni hadn't expressed any particular enthusiasm about meeting Andrew, although she missed her mother dearly and would love to meet little Lizzy.
"What's for dinner?" Andrew called out as he stepped into the bathroom for his shower. The delicious aroma of the food had filled the house, making his mouth water.
"Meatloaf and mashed potatoes," Rhoda had prepared his favourite.
"It smells fantastic! I can't wait," Andrew said from under the running water.
…
IT WAS A BRIGHT, sunny Sunday afternoon, and Teni was leaving church for her first outing with Jim since his release.
Her outfit was a striking flowered purple gown that cascaded from her shoulders to her ankles with the regal grace of Buckingham Palace curtains. The dress was the epitome of modesty, concealing her curves and figure from any admiring eyes. She looked every bit the picture of a devout sister from a Catholic convent. "When you go to church, cover up your God-given beauty so you don't tempt men to sin in their thoughts," Rhoda had often advised.
A vision of loveliness, Teni slid into her car, settled behind the wheel, and pulled down the sun visor. She glanced at her reflection in the small mirror, ensuring her light makeup was perfectly in place. Though she wasn't one for heavy cosmetics, the little she wore had to be just right.
Satisfied, she drove out of the church grounds and onto the road. Her destination was Ella's, the town's best restaurant according to Bola. Jim had promised to meet her there by noon, thirty minutes after her church service ended. If there was one thing Jim could be relied upon for, it was punctuality. He had never been late. She was certain she would find him waiting, as always.
The Sunday roads were unusually clear, making her drive effortless. It was one of the quiet joys of the day. Pulling up in front of the restaurant, she parked and got out. The place looked different from their last visit three months prior. It was larger, painted in new colours. The shoe shop next door was gone, its absence clearly the reason for the restaurant's expansion. After a moment of admiring the revamped exterior, she locked her car and walked towards the entrance.
Stepping inside, her gaze immediately went to their usual table, but it was empty. A few other tables were occupied by couples and groups enjoying their meals and conversations. She scanned the room, but Jim wasn't anywhere in sight.
"What could have happened?" she murmured, walking towards their preferred spot, which was thankfully vacant. She pulled out a chair and sat down. It was the first time she would be waiting for Jim on an outing. Placing her bag on the small table for two, she settled in. The delicious aroma of food filled the air, making her eager to eat. After a short wait, Teni decided to call Jim, a flicker of worry now replacing her anticipation.
As she reached into her bag for her phone, it slipped off the table, its contents scattering across the tiled floor. "Oops!" she muttered. She bent down to gather her belongings when a pair of hands began to help her from behind. Turning, she saw Jim, her unexpected good Samaritan.
"Sorry, your Majesty," Jim apologized for her wait as he collected her things and placed them back in her bag. He set the bag on the table and straightened up. "I've been here for almost thirty minutes. I just popped to the restroom a few minutes ago." It was true he had been there for that long, but the bathroom visit was a fabrication.
"I was worried when I didn't see you at our table. It's not like you," Teni said, adjusting herself in her chair.
"You know I would never keep my queen waiting," Jim replied with a wink.
"I know you're usually very punctual," Teni smiled. As always, her smile, and the charming dimples that appeared on her cheeks, ignited Jim's hopes for their future together.
"I'm starving," Teni added, picking up the menu. She glanced towards the waiters, intending to call one over.
"I've already ordered your favourite. But they're bringing the first course first. You'll love it," Jim said, rubbing his hands together and licking his lips with a smile.
"First course? You've never been a fan of a first course. When did that start?" Teni's eyes searched his, a playful suspicion in their depths. She knew he was a typical African man who usually had no patience for elaborate multi-course meals.
"Sometimes, you need to try new things," Jim replied, licking his lips again, growing more confident in his little deception. He continued to rub his hands together as he gestured to a waiter standing a few meters away. The waiter nodded and approached their table carrying a tray with two small, covered plates and two spoons.
Teni sensed Jim was up to something, but she couldn't quite decipher his plan. Her hunger was growing, and she was eager to eat. "I skipped breakfast to come to church, Jim. I'm really hungry," she reminded him.
"Here comes the first course. Enjoy," Jim announced as the waiter placed the covered plates on their table, a spoon beside each.
Eagerly, Teni lifted the lid of her plate. To her surprise, instead of food, she found a folded piece of paper lying in the centre.
"What is this?" She looked up at Jim, who feigned surprise.
"What is it?" Jim asked, his act almost convincing, but a small smile played on his lips.
"I don't know. What do you think?" Teni asked impatiently.
"Is there anything written on the back? Pick it up and turn it over," Jim suggested.
"Jim! I have no time for pranks. I told you, I'm hungry!" Teni said, a slight frown creasing her brow.
Despite her dwindling patience, Teni picked up the paper and flipped it over. The words she saw stole her breath, the moment feeling surreal. WILL YOU MARRY ME? was written boldly across the page.
At the same moment, Jim opened the plate in front of him, revealing a ring with sparkling diamond studs nestled in the centre. He picked it up and knelt down on one knee. Holding the ring aloft, he looked up at Teni, whose face registered utter disbelief. Her mouth hung slightly open, her eyes wide with shock and dawning joy.
From a corner of the restaurant, a saxophonist emerged, playing a beautifully soft rendition of Diana Ross's "Endless Love." He moved closer to their table as he played the melody.
"Will you marry me?" Jim asked, his voice filled with emotion. All eyes in the restaurant were now fixed on them, captivated by the unfolding scene.
"Yes! I will marry you! I will marry you!" Teni exclaimed, a joyous laugh escaping her lips. Tears welled in her eyes, but the overwhelming happiness allowed only a few to spill over. She laughed again as Jim slipped the ring onto her finger.
She had waited so long, and now it was finally happening. Her patience had ultimately been rewarded. Her mother's concerned arguments echoed in her mind, all those conversations now resonating with a new meaning. She couldn't wait to share the long-awaited news with Rhoda.
Jim stood up, pulling Teni to her feet, and enveloped her in the warmest kiss she had ever received. Teni closed her eyes as their lips met, their tongues dancing together. She still couldn't quite believe it was real, that she wasn't dreaming.
The applause and cheers of the other dinners surrounded them, a joyful confirmation that this was indeed reality. And before she could fully process the delightful shock of Jim's proposal, the waiters had filled their table with an array of delicious food, setting the stage for their celebratory lunch.
"This is the happiest day of my life, and I will cherish it forever," Jim said, still holding Teni close.
"You are worth more than gold and diamonds. And I have given you my love forever," Jim said again, gently guiding her back to her seat, his words making her blush. He adjusted her chair and then returned to his own.
Now, finally hungry and filled with joy, he waited patiently for his bride-to-be to be ready to eat.
Teni remained slightly dazed, gazing into her fiancé's eyes, a silent prayer in her heart that all his promises were true. If they were, she would be the happiest woman alive, for she loved Jim with a depth she had never felt for anyone else.
"After the first course, shall we eat?" Jim smiled, his eyes twinkling.
"The first course indeed," Teni laughed, a light-heartedness bubbling up within her.
"So, your little restroom visit before I arrived was all part of arranging this 'first course' with the waiters," Teni said, laughing again.
"Let's say a prayer," Jim suggested, reaching across the table to take her hands.
"Thank you, oh Lord Jesus, for this beautiful day, thank you for the new vows we have made. Help us to keep our promises and to become better people. We are grateful for this food, and we pray for those who are less fortunate. Amen," Teni concluded the prayer, and Jim echoed, "Amen."
Releasing her hands, they began to eat.
"That was the longest pre-meal prayer I've ever heard from you," Jim remarked with a smile.
"Maybe because you made it a special meal," Teni replied, picking up her fork. And as they ate and talked, that sunny Sunday transformed into the most extraordinary day of their lives.
...
TENI ARRIVED HOME after lunch, a buoyant lightness filling her. The reality of her impending marriage still felt wonderfully surreal. Bella, as if sensing the shift in the household's atmosphere, greeted Teni with an unusually enthusiastic leap that nearly knocked her off balance. Stooping down, Teni embraced her dog, planting a kiss on her head as Bella's tail thumped against the furniture and she let out happy grunts.
"I'm engaged!" Teni announced to Bella, showing her the sparkling ring. And as Bella responded with a playful bark, Teni smiled.
"Good girl, thanks! I knew you'd be happy for me," Teni said, standing up and beginning to undress for a refreshing shower.
Her phone buzzed in her bag, and she reached for it, now standing at the bathroom door. "Hello Bola, Jim proposed!" The news tumbled out, Teni unable to contain her excitement.
"Wow, wow! That's fantastic news! Congratulations!" Bola's enthusiastic reply echoed through the phone. "How did it happen?" she asked, genuinely thrilled for her friend. Three years of unwavering commitment without a proposal was no small feat, she mused.
"He did it at Ella's. It was so romantic," Teni said, turning her wrist to admire the diamond ring once more. "Oh, I'm sorry, you must have called to tell me something. I just couldn't wait to share my news," she apologized. "What was it you wanted to talk about?"
"Right, I wanted to discuss the preparations for the burial ceremony," Bola replied.
"Okay, I can be at your place this evening. Would 6 pm work?" Teni asked, stepping into the bathroom and shedding her remaining clothes to assess herself in the mirror under the bright light.
"That would be perfect. And please, if you have any malaria medication at home, could you bring it? Mary has a fever," Bola requested.
"6 pm it is. But about the malaria pills, why don't you meet me at Jim's hospital instead? Mary can see a doctor first, and then we can all go back to your place," Teni suggested.
"That's a much better idea, thank you. We'll meet you at the hospital at 6 pm," Bola said, feeling quite relieved. Her daughter had developed a fever the previous night, causing her considerable worry.
"See you then. Love you," Teni said, ending the call.
Teni walked back to the living room to place her phone on the table before returning to the bathroom. As the cool water cascaded over her, her thoughts drifted to her mother. She longed to share her joyful news, but decided to wait until later that night, after her visit to Bola's. Knowing Rhoda's effusive nature, a night-time call would be more manageable than an hours-long, excited conversation.
Bola and a tearful Mary emerged from the doctor's office. Mary sniffled, and her mother offered comforting words. The jovial doctor's injection had been an unwelcome event in Mary's young world. Bola held her daughter close, clutching the prescription for the necessary medication.
Teni, who gently took Mary from Bola's arms cuddled her. "You're such a big girl now. Big girls don't cry over little pokes," Teni said, bending to give Mary a soft kiss on the cheek. She took Mary's hand as they began to walk. Teni could still feel the lingering warmth of Mary's fever.
Bola, holding the prescription, led the way towards the pharmacy. They were a few meters to the pharmacy when Teni's phone rang.
"Hello, honey," she answered.
"Hello, have you girls finished with the doctor?" Jim's voice came through the line. He had been relaxing at home since their lunch, the prospect of a day off feeling like a long vacation.
"Yes, just heading to the pharmacy," Teni replied.
"Alright. When you get there, hand the phone to whoever is on duty," Jim instructed before turning his attention back to the movie playing on the wall-mounted television across from his bed. A plate of fried beef sat beside him, a bottle of red wine on the nightstand, and a glass in his hand.
"We're here now. Hold on," Teni said, gesturing to one of the three women behind the pharmacy counter. "The General Medical Director would like a word," Teni said, handing her phone to the short, dark-skinned woman, who accepted it with a respectful nod.
"Hello, Sir," the pharmacy attendant said.
"Put the young girl's bill on my account," Jim instructed.
"Okay, sir," the lady replied, handing the phone back to Teni. Everyone at the hospital knew Teni was the GMD's fiancée, a frequent subject of hushed gossip regarding Jim's past reputation and whether he truly deserved someone as seemingly virtuous as Teni.
"The bill has been taken care of, ma'am," the attendant said to Bola.
"Oh, thank you," Bola replied with a grateful smile.
"Did you tell Jim we were coming to the hospital?" Bola asked Teni.
"Yes, before I left home," Teni answered.
"You really shouldn't have bothered him," Bola said, waiting for the pharmacy staff to gather the prescribed medications.
"It wasn't a bother. He simply wanted to know where I was going, and I told him," Teni replied, pulling Mary closer. The little girl's temperature seemed to have subsided, which relieved Teni. She took a few steps with marry to the visitors ' seat.
"Will you thank Jim for me?" Bola asked Teni, who was now seated with Mary resting her head on her chest, looking tired.
"Collect the medicine, and let's head home. Mary needs to sleep," Teni said softly, wrapping her arms around the child as Bola received a paper bag containing the prescriptions from the smiling pharmacy attendant.
"Thank you," Bola said to the staff. As she left the hospital with her daughter and Teni, she felt a surge of gratitude for Teni's sensible suggestion to seek medical attention for Mary.