It was a busy Monday morning in Lagos, the city alive as always with honking cars, people rushing to their workplaces, and school children making their way to classes. The streets pulsed with energy, a cacophony of urban life that never truly slept. Among the hustle, the scene opened at the elegant home of Lady Ngozi, widely known and respected in both Lagos and her hometown of Umunchi, Mbano.
Lady Ngozi moved briskly around her lavish sitting room, checking phones and making calls simultaneously. The space was tastefully furnished, with a large flat-screen television, polished furniture, and gadgets scattered around, a testament to her status as a successful businesswoman. Despite her busy lifestyle and frequent travels abroad, Lady Ngozi had remained a dedicated mother to her grown son, Edward, who lived in America.
Her house staff hovered nearby, standing stiffly as if expecting to be scolded. "Oh, finally! Nna, why do you always love giving your mother high blood pressure?" she exclaimed, her voice laced with both frustration and relief. "I've been trying your number for five hours since you told me you were boarding your flight. Where are you now?"
Edward's voice carried through the loudspeaker on her phone, calm and apologetic. "Mummy, as if you don't know how flights work. Once I board, the phone must be off. And my flight was slightly delayed, sorry about that. But I can't wait to see you."
Lady Ngozi's tense expression softened into a warm smile. "Oh, my sweet son, you know this is your first time coming home in three years. Of course I was worried."
"I'm fine, Mummy. I'm already in an Uber heading to the house—you'll see me soon."
"Hold on, Nna. Why didn't you inform me you'd landed? I could have picked you up. You're always so carefree," she chided playfully.
The house had been buzzing with activity for a week in preparation for Edward's homecoming. Meals had been planned and prepared, rooms cleaned and arranged countless times, as if anticipating his presence daily. As the sound of a car horn echoed through the big iron gate, Lady Ngozi's heart raced in excitement. Her duplex, one of several she owned, was a symbol of her success, and today it would host a reunion long awaited.
Edward walked in, and mother and son embraced tightly, tears streaming down both their faces. Though Lady Ngozi was accustomed to living independently and traveling frequently, her health had required her to slow down since her son left the country. Now, in the comfort of her home, she could fully savor this reunion.
They moved to the dining table, where a lavish spread awaited: jollof rice garnished to perfection, fried turkey, and all of Edward's favorite delicacies. As Edward savored each bite, glancing at his mother with both admiration and nostalgia, he commented on the subtle changes in her appearance.
"Mummy," he said, gently biting into a piece of turkey, "I've really missed you. And it seems you have more grey hairs than before."
Nodding, Lady Ngozi replied with a sip of her orange juice, "Nna, that's a sign I'm not getting any younger. Maybe it's time you introduce me to the woman in your life."
Edward laughed softly, a mixture of amusement and humility. "Mummy, I have that in mind. But I'll need to rest first. Tomorrow, I plan to visit the village—see Grandma and perhaps… well, you'll see."
Lady Ngozi nodded approvingly. "Good, Nna. I also plan to visit the village next week, but I have a small meeting this weekend, so I'll wait."
Meanwhile, in Umunchi, Sunday morning brought a peaceful contrast to Lagos's bustling chaos. Birds chirped in the trees, women hurried to church, and the aroma of fresh meals drifted through the village. Among them, Ezinne walked alongside her friend Nnenna, chatting as they made their way to church. Behind them, Nneka strolled, laughing and sharing stories with her childhood friend Angela.
"I almost slipped on that floor! Mama Nkechi must've made something slippery," Nneka joked, recalling the graduation party from the previous weekend.
Nneka had grown into a striking young woman, her beauty catching the eyes of many in the village. Her skin was fair and naturally radiant, her body shapely yet elegant, and her movements carried the grace of someone confident and poised. Her long legs, perfectly proportioned nose, and bold eyes framed by natural lashes made her stand out wherever she went. Even Angela, her closest friend, admired Nneka's poise and presence.
As they walked, a black jeep slowed behind them, causing Nneka and Angela to move aside. A tall, fair-skinned young man stepped out, his gaze fixed on Nneka. Edward, the very son of Lady Ngozi, had returned from Lagos and was immediately captivated by her presence.
Angela whispered in awe, "Nne, that guy is looking at you… he's your direction, obviously. Wow!"
Nneka remained calm, her steps unaltered, though her heart fluttered at the sight of Edward. From the age of fifteen, men had sought her attention due to her beauty, but she had always maintained composure. Today was no different.
Edward approached, greeting Angela first, then extending his hand to Nneka. "Hello, ladies. I hope I'm not disturbing you. My name is Edward, son of Lady Ngozi. With all sincerity and the love of Christ, may I have your number, Miss?"
Nneka shook her head politely. "I don't have a phone, sir. I've never owned one."
Undeterred, Edward asked about her family. Nneka calmly replied, "I'm from the Mbakwe family, Umunchi kindred."
Edward nodded, smiling warmly. "I remember now. My mother used to employ your mother six years ago when she was building a house. I supervised her work then. I'd like to meet her this evening if possible."
"Yes, she's around," Nneka replied.
"Let me not waste your time. May I offer a ride?" Edward suggested. Angela quickly declined, pulling Nneka along. "No, thank you. We're close to home," she said, protecting her friend from a stranger's car.
Edward watched them walk away, intrigued by Nneka's calm demeanor.
That evening, Nneka entered her home to find her mother resting. She quietly explained the morning encounter. "Mama, a man recognized us; he said he's Edward, Lady Ngozi's son. He wants to see you tonight."
Ezinne's brow lifted in surprise. Lady Ngozi's son in Umunchi? Why now, after so many years? Nneka was only sixteen, turning seventeen next month. Ezinne's mind raced with possibilities, yet she remained calm, allowing the moment to unfold.
Later, Edward arrived, stepping out of the sleek black car in casual attire—polo shirt and jeans. He greeted Ezinne respectfully, who was immediately impressed by his charm and poise. "Good evening, ma," Edward said, bowing slightly.
Ezinne smiled warmly. "I remember you now. Nneka mentioned you. You've grown into a fine young man. How's your mother?"
"My mother is well, still in Lagos. She'll return tomorrow," Edward replied.
Ezinne inquired about his return to Nigeria. "I came back last weekend," Edward responded, turning to Nneka with a gentle, sincere gaze. "Nne, how are you?"
Nneka blushed, a mix of shyness and excitement. "I'm fine, sir."
Edward continued, speaking candidly. "Mama, I hope it's appropriate for me to come alone, but I pursue what I want. I saw Nneka in church this morning, and our spirits matched. I don't intend to propose marriage now, but I hope you'll allow me the chance to guide her education."
Ezinne's eyes softened. "I appreciate your approach. Nneka is only sixteen, nearly seventeen. I'm grateful for your concern about her education, not just marriage."
Edward's eyes sparkled with determination. "Mama, I want to fund her education through university. I'll provide everything she needs. And if, when she's of age, she chooses to marry me, I will accept gladly."
Ezinne's joy was uncontainable. "Jesus! You've done it for me and my daughter!" she exclaimed. Nneka, witnessing her mother's excitement, rushed forward to hug Edward, feeling her heart beat in sync with his.
Edward then presented two phones, one for Nneka and one for Ezinne. Nneka smiled, grateful. "Thank you, sir," she said softly.
Edward continued, "The JAMB form will be ready by tomorrow. Start preparing for your exams. I trust your judgment, Nneka."
Nneka nodded, her dimples flashing as she accepted the responsibility. Ezinne, her heart still filled with joy, turned to Nneka. "Nneka, remember, he admires your youth and intellect. If this is meant to be, it will happen when the Lord wills. For now, focus on your studies and trust God."
Nneka smiled, feeling a mixture of excitement and determination. "Mama, please teach me how to use my phone," she said, eager to embrace the gift from Edward.
Ezinne laughed softly, handing the device to her daughter. "Don't worry, Nneka. You'll teach me too."
The night settled over the village, but the promise of new beginnings shone brightly in Nneka's heart. Her life, once quiet and predictable, was now intertwined with hope, opportunity, and the gentle guidance of love and faith.