The sun rose over the university campus, spilling light on banners that fluttered with pride: "Class of Excellence — Faculty of Law Graduation."
Splendour stood in her gown, eyes shimmering with gratitude. Enisa was beside her, teasing her hair into place while humming softly. Naomi had arrived earlier, beaming with the kind of joy only a true friend could share.
When her name was called "Splendour Adelara Grace — Overall Best Graduating Student!" the hall erupted in cheers.
Her mother screamed her name from the crowd, waving both hands in the air, tears streaming freely. Even her father clapped with a quiet, satisfied smile.
Alfred stood at the back, dressed in a clean black suit, watching the woman he loved take her moment under the sun.
He had seen her cry, struggle, and almost give up but never stop.
Now she was shining like she was born for it.
After the ceremony, Splendour walked into the open field surrounded by friends and well-wishers. Photographers shouted her name, flashes lighting up the moment. She barely noticed the noise until she turned and saw Alfred walking toward her, holding a bouquet of white lilies and a small box.
Her heart stopped.
He smiled softly, eyes glistening. "You did it, my Queen."
Before she could reply, he went down on one knee.
The crowd gasped.
Her classmates screamed.
Phones went up instantly.
"Splendour Adelara Grace," Alfred said, voice trembling but steady, "you've been my peace, my hope, and my light. I've watched you grow into everything I once prayed for. So today, in front of everyone, I'm asking—will you marry me?"
The entire crowd began chanting,
"Say yes! Say yes! Say yes!"
Splendour covered her mouth, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Her mother stood frozen, hand on her chest, confused but too emotional to move.
"Yes! Yes, I will!" Splendour finally cried.
Alfred slipped the ring on her finger as the crowd cheered. She hugged him tightly, both of them trembling with joy. Naomi jumped in circles, Enisa clapped till her palms hurt, and even Splendour's father smiled faintly, though he said nothing.
Her mother's eyes softened. It was clear she didn't know the young man, but she could see his sincerity. For the moment, love had won.
When things calmed a little, her father approached, still holding his wife's hand.
"Young man," he said kindly, "thank you for celebrating with our daughter. It's a proud day for us all."
Alfred bowed slightly. "Thank you, sir. It's an honour to meet you."
Her mother nodded, smiling. "You're welcome. You must join us for dinner tomorrow evening we'd like to celebrate properly, as a family."
Alfred glanced at Splendour, who nodded quickly with a teary smile.
"I'll be there, ma. Thank you so much."
As the music and laughter filled the evening air, Splendour and Alfred moved aside, finding a quiet spot beneath a jacaranda tree. He took her hand gently, their fingers interlocking, as if the world had melted away.
They just stood there, watching the sunset paint the sky gold and pink.
Splendour leaned her head against his shoulder, heart full.
For the first time in her life, she felt complete.
This right here , was everything she had ever prayed for.