LOVE BEYOND BLOOD Episode 4

Life slowly began to feel like a reward after years of struggle. With Kola’s support, I entered the university, and every day felt like proof that growth was possible. The classrooms were intimidating at first, but I refused to be afraid. I spoke, I learned, I made mistakes and I improved. My English, once the reason someone looked down on me, became my strength.

Kola changed too.

This time, he didn’t hide me. He introduced me to people as his partner, with pride in his voice. When he held my hand in public, I no longer felt like a secret. He attended my presentations, listened to my long explanations, and smiled each time I spoke confidently. Sometimes he would tease me gently, reminding me of the girl at the amala shop, and I would laugh, amazed at how far I had come.

Despite my new life, I never abandoned my roots. During holidays, I returned home to help my mother. I still served amala and gbegiri, but now I did it with confidence, greeting customers in clear English and Yoruba. My mother watched me with proud eyes, often saying, “Education has changed you, my daughter.”

Kola became a regular visitor at our home. He respected my mother, helped with small expenses, and spoke of our future with certainty. We talked about marriage often how simple the wedding would be, where we would live, how many children we wanted. For the first time in my life, I allowed myself to dream freely.

After my graduation, he proposed quietly, without a ring, but with seriousness in his eyes. I said yes without hesitation. Families were informed, plans began, and happiness filled every corner of my heart. It felt like the world had finally accepted us.

As tradition required, we agreed to run medical tests. It felt like a formality, nothing to fear. We joked while heading to the lab, teasing each other about who feared needles more. In my heart, I was already planning my wedding dress.

Days later, the results were ready.

We sat side by side in silence, waiting to collect them. I noticed Kola’s hands shaking slightly, but I brushed it off. Love had taught me to believe in good endings.

Neither of us opened the envelope immediately.

Instead, we smiled at each other two people who had fought through pride, poverty, shame, and self-growth to stand where we were. I had no idea that the final test was not about our bodies, but about sacrifice.

And that the love we believed had survived everything was about to face its greatest trial.

Continue reading Episode 5