Splendour stood at the entrance of her family home, her heart racing with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Today was important she was introducing Kingsley, the man she loved, the one she wanted to marry.
Her parents were seated in the living room, eyes bright with curiosity as she stepped in, hand-in-hand with Kingsley. He was poised, charming, and undeniably handsome the kind of man that immediately caught attention.
"Mama, Papa… this is Kingsley," she said, smiling brightly. "He's the man I want to marry."
Her mother's eyes softened as she extended her hand. "It's so nice to finally meet you, Kingsley."
Her father, always reserved but attentive, nodded with a polite smile. "Welcome. We've heard a lot about you."
Kingsley bowed slightly, a respectful smile playing on his lips. "It's an honor to meet you both. I promise to take good care of your daughter."
The air was warm, filled with laughter and gentle conversation. Splendour felt her heart bloom with joy. She watched Kingsley interact with her parents the way he joked lightly, shared experiences, and made her mother laugh.
Then, her mother's eyes softened, and she asked gently, "And… Alfred? What about him?"
Splendour's smile widened, calm and composed. She glanced at Kingsley, then back at her parents. "Alfred… is a chapter of the past," she said softly. "I'll always cherish what we had, but my life has moved forward."
Her father nodded slowly, as if he understood. "We just want you to be happy, Splendour."
"I am, Papa," she replied, eyes sparkling.
Kingsley squeezed her hand, and she felt warmth spread through her chest. Here he was, steady and real the man she had chosen, the one who made her heart full.
The evening continued with laughter, jokes, and stories. Splendour introduced Kingsley to her friends over the phone, sharing her joy. And though memories of Alfred lingered faintly, she knew this was the path she had chosen a new beginning, a future filled with love, hope, and promise.
As the night drew to a close, she and Kingsley sat together, hands entwined. Splendour leaned her head on his shoulder, whispering softly,
"This… this is everything I prayed for."
Kingsley kissed her forehead gently. "And I'll spend my life making sure it always is."