Billionaire PRETENDS To Be A Poor Keke Driver To Find True Love, Then this Happened.  

Anukam had everything many people prayed for. He had a big house with tall gates. He had cars that made people turn their heads on the road. He wore expensive clothes. Good afternoon, sir. Welcome, sir. God bless you, sir. And everywhere he entered, people stood up to greet him. They said it with smiles on their faces.

 But Ekkenna knew the truth. Most of those smiles were not for him. They were for his money. That evening, he sat alone in his sitting room, staring at his phone. The room was quiet, but his mind was not. tomorrow. Hello Ekenna. Baby, please. I saw one very beautiful wig today. It is only 800,000. 800,000 for hair.

Ah, you are talking like you don’t have money. Is it not you again? Please, now I want to look good for you. Before he could drop the phone, another message entered. He stared at it for a long time. build us from feeling alone. He stood up and walked to the window. Outside, his compound was quiet.

 The security lights shone on his cars. Everything looked beautiful, but he felt empty. He remembered one woman who had told him she loved him after only two meetings. By the third meeting, she asked him to sponsor her younger brother abroad. Another one cried in his arms and said her family was suffering.

 Later he found out she had used the money to buy gold jewelry. At first Ikenna helped them. He believed love meant giving. But after some time he began to understand. They did not love him. They loved what he could do for them. If I had nothing, would anybody still love me? The question stayed in his heart.

 He could not sleep. He kept walking around his room like a man looking for an answer he could not find. By morning, he had made up his mind. He would hide his real identity. He would remove the expensive clothes, the cars, the respect, and the big name. He would become a poor man. Not just any poor man.

 He would become a tricycle driver. 2 days later, Akenna went to a small mechanic yard dressed in a plain shirt, faded jeans, and slippers. He stood in front of a old tricycle. The paint was faded. The seat was torn at one side. The horn sounded weak when he pressed it. Oh god, this one is not fine, but it can still move. That is the one I want.

You sure this kek will disturb you sometimes? I know. As long as you have money to repair it. Ia paid him and took the tricycle away. That same evening, he packed some simple clothes into a small bag. He from today I am Kenna. The man staring back at him did not look like a Kenna Anakam, the rich man people respected.

 He looked like a struggling young man trying to survive. The next morning, he drove the tricycle out early. The road was already busy. People were rushing to walk. Market women were carrying baskets. Students stood by the road. Traders shouted prizes from their shops. Ikenna parked by the roadside and waited. K.

 Where you go? I mean, are you going this way? Yes. Enter. Driver, please be fast. I am late. Okay. At first, I thought the walk would be easy. Carry people, drop them, collect money, move again. But before noon, his shirt was already soaked with sweat. Fuel was expensive. The road was bad. Passengers were impatient. Your ticket I paid this morning.

 That one is morning ticket. This one is afternoon ticket. You must be new. Bring money. There is afternoon ticket too. MOVE DRIVER. DON’T BLOCK ROAD. Ikenna wanted to argue, but other drivers behind him were already shouting. He paid and drove ahead. Park there. What did I do? Your side mirror is shaking.

 It is still there. Settle something and go. Go. By evening, IA was tired. His back achd. His hands hurt from holding the handle. His throat was dry from calling for passengers. Still, he continued. The next day was worse. Madam, please keep the bag well so another person can enter. Do your work and stop disturbing me. Take your money.

For this noisy world where everybody run, I find small peace any promise me heaven and earth. You know need promise me heaven and earth. Sir, please. I don’t have change. You people are always useless. Why will you kill passengers when you don’t have change? I’m sorry, sir.

 I’ll try to find some. Just useless. I am sorry. I can check nearby. Better check fast. I don’t have time for nonsense. Come on, Kei driver. You people like stress. Akenna held the handle tightly. He wanted to speak, but he swallowed his words. He is handsome. Sha handsome for what? God forbid I marry a keki driver.

  Ikenna heard them clearly. His chest tightened, but he kept driving. He remembered how women used to call him perfect when they saw his cars. Now with faded clothes and an old tricycle, he was suddenly not enough. When he dropped them, they walked away still laughing. Ikenna parked by the roadside and sat there for a while.

 The sun was going down, cars passed, people moved around him like he did not exist. So this is how people see poor men. No one answered him. He looked at his rough slippers. Dust covered his feet. For the first time in his life, he understood something clearly. Poor people did not only suffer because money was not enough.

 They also suffered because many people treated them like they had no value. That thought stayed with him. He could have ended everything that day. He could have gone back to his mansion, taken a hot bath, worn clean clothes, and forgotten this whole plan. But he did not. I must finish this. And as he drove into the busy evening, he did not know that the woman who would change his life was already close.

 But before he met her, life gave him two painful lessons. K. Yes, madam. Thank you. Good afternoon. Good afternoon. Please take me straight down. I will show you the place. Okay. What is your name? I am Kenna. Kenna, you are too handsome to be driving Kek.

Is driving Kek a crime? No, but your face does not match this work. What work should my face match? Maybe bank manager or one rich man’s son. My sister, this is what life gave me. Life can change. My name is Neca. I am a fashion lover. I like hardworking men. Honestly, poor men are even better sometimes because they know how to value women.

For the first time in days, a woman was speaking to him with interest, not disgust. When they reached her stop, she paid him and collected his money. Sometimes I may need you to carry me around. No problem. Maybe she is different. For some days, Naneka called him often. Kenna, are you around? Yeah, I’m here.

 What’s up? Just checking on you. I’m good. Kenna, please come and carry me. On my way. Kenna, I like your company. Kenna always went. Sometimes she asked him to wait while she bought things. Sometimes she asked him to carry her to visit friends. She smiled at him, laughed with him and made him feel seen.

Kenna, please can you send me recharge card? Just small one. How much? 5,000. 5,000 for recharge card. Is it too much? No, I will send it. Kenna, I have not eaten since morning. How much do you need? Anything from your heart? My hair is very old. I need to make new hair. Neca, I am only driving.

 Ke, where do you think I will get money for hair? You men like pretending. I know you have small savings. He sent her something again just to watch her. The more he gave, the more she asked. What happened? My rent is disturbing me. Rent? Yes. My landlord is embarrassing me. How much? 2 million naira. Neca. I don’t have that kind of money.

But you can try. I cannot. Business has been bad. Fuel is high. The keki also needs repair. So you don’t have money? I told you before I am managing. Neca, if I cannot help you now, does it change anything? Change what? Kenna, let us be serious. How can a man be this broke? What future do you even have? You are handsome.

 Yes, but Hansmoness cannot pay rent. I cannot suffer with a man who is still dragging daily money with passengers. Please stop calling me if you cannot help me. When she came down, she did not even pay. I watched her walk away. He finally understood. Na never liked him. She only liked what she thought she could collect.

After that day, Kenna tried to remove her from his mind. He told himself he had seen enough. But life was not done teaching him. Please driver take me to the main road. Enter. You have been walking since morning. Yes. Have you eaten? Not yet. That is not good. You people work too hard. buy something and eat.

Thank you. No problem. That small kindness touched him. For the next week, Amara called him sometimes. She asked him to carry her to shops, salons, and visits. She spoke gently and even asked about his day. Ikenna began to think maybe he had judged too quickly. You are a good man, Kenna. How do you know? I can see it.

People don’t usually see good things in kek drivers. I am not people. But one Saturday evening, everything changed. I had gone to buy a spare part for his Kiki. On his way by saw something he wasn’t expecting. The car was clean and expensive. A rich-l looking man sat inside wearing dark shades.

 Amara bent down and sweettalked him. The man laughed and then he gave her money. Ia parked his KK by the side and watched quietly. Whispered the nameisper. Never let the truth be told. What are you doing here? I came to buy something for my kek. Who is this? Nobody. Just one KK man that carries me sometimes. Just one KK man.

Please don’t embarrass me here. I am not embarrassing you. I only want to understand. You told me you liked me. Kenna, please don’t act like a child. What do you mean? Did you think I would leave a man with money for a kek driver? You are nice. Yes, but nice does not pay bills.

 You cannot even take care of yourself. Look at your slippers. Look at your KK. What kind of life do you want to give a woman? You poor men always think small kindness means love. I only pied you. Please know your level. Let’s go. The car drove away. I stood there by the roadside watching until the car disappeared. Give them the image. Forget everything.

A family name can become a chain. When pride is the master and love of pride. Inka had used him. Amara had insulted him. The women who liked him as a kenna wanted his wealth. The women who met him as kenna the kek driver wanted to climb away from him. Maybe real love does not exist again.

His voice was low. He remembered the women who asked him for wigs, cars, rent, and family support. He remembered Neca and her rent money. He remembered Amara calling him nobody in front of another man. For the first time, Ikenna felt tired in a way sleep could not fix. That evening, he parked by the roadside and rested his head on the handle.

 He had not eaten since morning. Dust covered his clothes. His palms were rough from holding the handle all day. Maybe nobody can love an ordinary man. KK. Yes, sister. Where are you going? Market streets, please. Enter. Good evening. Good evening. My name is Chica. Please drive small. Small soup is inside this container.

No problem. Driver, move fast. All right, hold on. No delays. Let’s go. You see betterve I choose. Now you want money. Now you are now hold. Why are you driving like an old woman? Are you sleeping? Come on KK driver. You people don’t know anything. IF YOU CANNOT DRIVE, PARK. Please don’t blame him. The road is bad.

If he drives anyhow, the KK can spoil. Did I talk to you? No, sir. But he’s only trying to be careful. Everybody is managing. Ikenna became quiet. Something in him softened. Nobody had defended him like that since he started this life. It is okay. Don’t worry. Why? You defended me. That one does not mean I should not pay you. You worked. Thank you.

 God bless your hustle. I looked at the money in his palm. The words touched him more than she knew. Chica carried her containers and walked away. Ikenna watched her until she disappeared into a small part. For the rest of that evening, her voice stayed in his mind. God bless your hustle. Days passed, but Ekenna could not forget her.

He remembered the way she greeted him. He remembered how she sat without pride. He remembered how she defended him without knowing him. He remembered how she paid him even when he tried to refuse the money. Chica Kenna, you are going to sell? Yes. Enter. I will carry you. Thank you. You remembered my name.

You remembered mine, too. How can I forget the driver who wanted to carry me for free? You sell food? Yes, I cook and sell. I use the money to take care of myself and my mother. Your mother is sick. She has been sick for some time. Some days are better, some days are hard. I am sorry. It is well. At least we are alive.

You are not tired. Everybody gets tired. But what can we do? We keep going. Life has seasons. Today may be hard, but tomorrow can be better. Ikenna listened quietly. She did not complain like the others. She did not ask him for money. She did not act as if poverty was a shame. She spoke with peace.

Thank you, Chica. You are the one carrying me. Why are you thanking me? IA did not know how to explain, so he only smiled. As Chica walked away with their food containers, Ika watched her again. For the first time in many days, his heart felt a little light. Maybe real love still existed.

 Maybe he had just been meeting the wrong people. After that morning, Ikenna began to see Chica often. Sometimes he saw her early standing by the road with her food containers. Sometimes he carried her home in the evening after she finished selling. Sometimes he helped her leave the heavy containers into the tricycle. And sometimes when rain started falling, he waited for her.

  Kenna, you are still here. I saw the rain. I knew you would need a ride. You waited for me. Yes. Thank you. True love. Keep it. Why? It is raining. Just go inside. No, you walked. Chica, I said keep it. Use it for mama. The rain is heavy. Go inside before you catch cold.

No, you walked for it. You are walking. I cannot enjoy your sweat for free. You are stubborn. I am not stubborn. I am fair. He collected the money. As she walked away, I watched her with respect in his heart. Chica was different. She did not talk too much. She did not pretend. She did not act like she was better than him because he drove KK.

As days passed, their friendship grew. They began to talk about simple things. Fuel price, bad roads, market stress, her mother’s sickness, his KK repairs. This kek will finish my money one day. What happened again? The brake is making noise. The horn is weak.

 Yesterday, one man told me my kek sounds like a generator. You are laughing at my pain. No, I am laughing because the man is not completely wrong. Even you, especially me. Sorry, but don’t worry. One day you will buy a better one. You believe that? Why not? Many people don’t believe a ke driver can go far. I believe you can.

People talk too much. A person’s today is not his forever. Ekkenna looked at her. She said it like she meant it. One evening, Ikenna decided to test her heart. He had tested other women before, but with Chica, it felt different. He did not want to hurt her. Still, he needed to know if your kindliness was real.

You are quiet today. Things are hard. What happened? No. Be everybody with smile gets clean mind. No be every fine thing treasure you go find some people praise you when the light shine is not the owner is disturbing me for daily if I don’t pay complete money he will collect it how much are you judge another person’s face tomorrow I can cook another one everything.

That’s my friend. He can held the food, but he could not eat immediately. His heart felt heavy. She was not asking what he could give her. She was giving him what she had. Why are you staring like that? Some measure woman by the place where she reside. But character know they forever ground.

 One day the truth surely come around. Pride build money bring crowd but not stop person from feeling alone. Now respect and kindness they make love. Now who stay with you when rain fall? No be heart inside. No follow noise make the truth be your guide. The thing of value no always they shine.

 And the best kind of riches no be money you’ll be fine. No be tonight is see no be everything be reality if you get gold but no get peace if you get nothing but still get dignity no be waiting to see good hearts not a real beauty when the whole and walk away not true love go remain till another day respect everybody where you meet for if he’s kind, honest, hardworking and he respects me.

 Why not? Poverty is not a sickness. Those words entered his heart. He looked down at the food in his hand and blinked slowly. For the first time since he started this plan, he kind of felt true hope again. I will buy the medicine after good beauty. I Kenna acted calm, but later that evening, he went to the medicine shop and bought everything she needed.

Someone gave it to me. He said I should give it to anybody who needs it. What is this, Kenna? This is my mother’s medicine. Yes. Maybe God sent it. Are you sure someone gave you this? Take it. Your mother needs it. Thank you. IA looked away because guilt was already growing in his chest.

 He loved how Chica trusted him. He loved how she spoke to him. He loved how she did not make him feel small. But each day the lie became heavier. She did not know he was rich. She did not know the kek was part of a plan. She did not know he had a big house, expensive cars, and a family name people respected. To Chica, he was Kenna, a poor tricycle driver trying to survive.

 And she was falling in love with that man. Ekenna knew she deserved the truth. One evening, he asked her to meet him after she finished selling. Is everything okay? Yes, I just want to talk. His voice made her uneasy. When she came, I was waiting near a quiet place away from noise and traffic. Kenna, what is wrong? Chica, I have something to tell you.

You are scaring me. I am sorry. For what? My name is not just Kenna. What do you mean? My full name is I Kenna Anukam Obi. What are you saying? I am not really a poor tricycle driver. I come from a very rich family. I was tired of women loving me because of money.

 Every woman I met wanted something from me. So I decided to hide who I was. I bought this old kek and started driving because I wanted to know if someone could love me without money. So all this while you were testing me at first. Yes. At first, I did not know I would meet you. And yet, here we are. You did not know you would meet a human being with feelings, Chica. I am sorry.

Please don’t. Chica, please. So the medicine for my mother, I bought it. The times you said you had nothing. I was testing you. the KKK owner disturbing you. I lied. I opened my heart to you because I thought you understood struggle. I do understand it now. Maybe not before, but these weeks changed me.

 I saw how people treat poor men. I saw how hard life is for people who work every day. But Chica, I did not plan to hurt you. But you did. I know. Chica was quiet for a long time. The evening breeze moved gently around them. Cars passed in the distance. Ikenna waited, afraid to say too much. I am hurt because you lied to me.

I know. And I am hurt because you made me feel like an exam I did not know I was writing. I am sorry. But I will not lie. I love the man I saw. I did not love you because of Ke. I loved your heart. I loved how calm you were. I loved how you listened. I loved how you respected me even though I had nothing.

 I loved how you treated my mother’s sickness like it mattered. Chica, but trust is not something you play with. If you want me in your life, don’t lie to me again. I promise. Don’t thank me yet. You still have work to do. I will do it. After that day, their love became stronger, but also more serious.

 Kenna no longer pretended with her. He told her about his family. He told her about his parents, Mr. Obi and Mrs. Obi. He told her they were proud people, but he believed they would accept her when they heard the truth. Chica was not sure. I want you to meet them. Your parents? Yes. Ia, are you sure? I am sure.

What if they don’t like me? They will like you. You don’t know that. When they hear that you loved me when you thought I was poor, they will understand. Rich people don’t always understand that kind of thing. My parents will. But his voice carried more hope than certainty. The day came. Chica dressed simply.

 She wore a neat gown and packed her hair well. She did not wear anything loud. She only wanted to look respectful. So this is the real you. This is part of me. But a man you knew is also me. You are nervous. Of course I am nervous. I am going to meet people who may look at me and see only poverty. They will see what I see.

And what do you see? A good woman. Mr. Obi and Mrs. Obi were seated when they entered. Her face was soft, but her eyes quickly studied Chica from head to toe. Daddy, mommy, this is Chica. Good evening, sir. Good evening, Ma. Good evening. Sit. Daddy. Mommy. Chica is the woman I love. Where did you meet her?

When I was driving the tricycle. You mean that your strange kek drama? Yes. Continue. She met me as a poor KK driver. She did not know who I was. She respected me. She cared for me. She loved me when she thought I had nothing. That is why I brought her here. She’s not like the others. What do you do? Sir, I sell food.

Roadside food. Yes, sir. Hey, Kenna, you are not serious. Daddy, you cannot marry a poor roadside food seller. Why not? You are the heir of this family. You carry our name. Marriage is not only about feelings. Chica may be a good girl. Nobody is saying she is bad. But she does not belong in our world.

There are women from respected families, educated women, women who understand this life. Why must you bring someone from the roadside? Because she LOVED ME WHEN SHE THOUGHT I WAS NOBODY. sit down. She loved me when she thought I had nothing. She respected me when other people insulted me.

 She gave me food when she thought I WAS HUNGRY. WHAT else do you want? My son, love is good, but life is bigger than love. No. Pride is what you people are calling life. Watch your mouth. Mommy, you should understand. She is kind. She is humble. Ia, kindness is not enough to manage a family like ours.

Chica, it is okay. Nobody is insulting you. We are only telling the truth. Yes, sir. I have heard you. You don’t even know her. I know enough. End this before it goes too far. Noa, I will not leave her because she is poor. Then you are ready to face the result. Take her home.

 When you are ready to think like a son of this family, come back alone. I came here hoping you would be happy that I found someone real. Let’s go. Chica followed him out quietly as they walked through the rich sitting room past the workers and the fine furniture. She kept her head high even though her heart was breaking. Ikenna, I don’t want to be the reason you fight your family.

You are not the reason. Their pride is. What if they never accept me? Then they will have to accept my choice. Chica entered the car. Aenna closed the door gently. As he walked around to the driver’s side, his heart was heavy, but his mind was clear. For the first time in his life, he was ready to fight for something money did not buy.

Yes. Please take me home. Chica, don’t let what they said enter your heart. How will it not enter? Your father called me a poor roadside food seller. He was wrong. But he is your father. That does not make him right. I don’t want to separate you from your family. You did not separate me from them.

 Their pride did. You are saying that now because you are angry. I am not only angry. I am disappointed. Ekkenna, they are your parents. I am scared. I am here. What if they make you choose? Then I will choose what gives me peace. The next morning, Ikenna’s father sent for him. Akenna went alone.

Ekkenna, I will ask you one last time. End that relationship. No, daddy. My son, listen to your father. Mommy, I have listened all my life. This time I want you people to listen to me. YOU ARE NOT THINKING. YOU want to throw your life away because of one girl? She is not one girl.

 Her name is Chica. Fine. Since you have decided to insult this family, let me make it easy for you. From today you will not step into my company. Your office is closed. Your cards will be stopped. Your car will be collected. The house you are staying in belongs to this family. So you will leave it.

Please don’t go too far. If that is the price, I will pay it. Ia, don’t be stubborn. Mommy, I love you. But I cannot leave Chica because she is poor. By evening everything changed. His bank card stopped working. Sir, Mr. Obi ordered me to bring back the car. Sir, they said we should not allow you into the company.

It is okay. He packed only a few clothes and left the house he had been staying in. What happened? Your landlord has gained one tenant. Ikenna, they blocked my cards. They took the car. They removed me from the company. Oh god, it is fine. It is not fine. You were acting before.

Now it has become real. I still have small savings and I still have the keki. I will face it for real. When rain fell, water entered from one side of the roof and Chica used the bowl to collect it. That night, rain began. Water dropped slowly into the bowl. Why are you laughing? I have never slept in a room where rain enters before.

This is not funny. I know but I am here with you. I have peace. Ekenna. Peace does not pay rent. But it helps a man sleep. For this noisy world where everybody run. I find small peace anytime you come. You know he promised me heaven and earth.

You know he promised me heaven and earth. Where are you going? To work. It is still dark. Kek drivers don’t wait for sun. He picked up the key and left. That day he queued for fuel for almost 2 hours. When he finally bought fuel, he paid ticket at the park. WHY ARE YOU TAKING THIS ROUGH ROAD? IT’S THE ONLY WAY. MY BODY IS SHAKING.

 YOU WILL PAY FOR THIS. JUST HOLD ON FASTER. NO MORE SHAKING. Another refused to pay complete fair. That later the keker stopped in the middle of the road. Ikenna pushed it to a mechanic under the hot sun. This one will cost money. How much? The man told him. Ikennena looked at the money in his pocket.

 Almost everything he had made that day would go into repair. Fix it. By the time he returned home that night, he was tired. Welcome back. How much did you make? After fuel, ticket and repair. I will do better tomorrow. I know. Eat. What about you? I have eaten. Chica, eat before it gets cold. He knew she had not eaten enough, but he was too tired to argue.

 Days turned into weeks. Ikenna drove the keki every morning. Chica cooked and sold food. She also looked after her sick mother, Mama Chica, a quiet woman whose body had become weak from a long sickness. Mama Chica liked Ikenna, but she watched him with pity. My daughter, this young man loves you.

 I know, mama, but love should not make him lose everything. He came from comfort. Can he continue like this? She remembered the first day she saw him in his clean car after he told her the truth. She remembered the fine house. She remembered the way his parents looked at it. Her chest became heavy. She loved him. That was the problem.

 She loved him too much to watch him suffer. Ikenna, you should go back to your parents. What? You heard me. Why are you saying this? Because this life is not for you. This is your life too. I was born into it. You were not. So because I was not born into it, I cannot survive. That is not what I mean.

Then what do you mean? I mean love should not destroy your life. You had everything before me. I chose you. I am not regretting it. You are suffering. I am walking. You come back tired every day. People come back tired every day, Chica. But you don’t have to. And you think I should leave you because of comfort? I think you should go back and make peace with your family.

What about us? No, I am not going. But Chica did not stop. For days she begged him. We can’t keep living like this. Sometimes softly. Every day feels the same. We need a change. Please, let’s try. Sometimes with tears. Please go back home. No, please. I can’t sleep.

 Every time you go out with that kek, I feel like I destroyed your life. You did not destroy anything. I did. No. Yes. If you never met me, you would still be in your father’s company. You would still have your car. You would still have your life. Chica, stop. I chose this life with you. Nothing else matters.

 My life was empty before you. But at least it was safe. He looked at her tears and became weak. He could fight his father. He could face hunger. He could push KK under the sun. But he could not keep watching Chica cry because of him. I will go and speak to him. Your father? Yes. She nodded, but her face did not look happy.

 IA went to his father’s house that afternoon. The guards allowed him in, but they no longer greeted him the way they used to. So, you are back. I came to talk. Have you learned your lesson? I want to return to the company. I knew hunger would teach you faster than advice. I am not here to exchange insults. Then listen, you can return.

 Your office, your cards, your car, everything can return. But there is one condition. What condition? You will marry Adai. Ikenna stared at him. Ad was the daughter of Mr. Ob’s close friend, Chief Uguchuku. She was beautiful but proud. She loved attention, expensive clothes, and showing people that she came from money.

 Ikenna had known her for years, and he had never liked her heart. I cannot marry Adise. You can. No. No. I don’t love her. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE. IS LOVE THE ONLY THING YOU KNOW? I will not marry her. THEN GO BACK TO YOUR KEK. DADDY, don’t do this. I am not the one doing anything. You are the one choosing. I came because Chica begged me.

Good. Good. At least she has sense enough to know you cannot build a life inside poverty. Don’t insult her. Then make your choice. Adzi or your kekenna stood there trapped between love and duty, between Chica’s tears and his father’s pride. He left without giving an answer. When he returned to Chica’s room that evening, she was waiting.

What did he say? He said, “I can return.” Chica’s eyes searched his face. But he said, “I must marry Adai.” Who is Adai? The daughter of his rich friend. He wants you to marry someone else. Yes. Chica, I will not do it. You have to. No, IA. No, Chica, don’t start. Can’t you see your father will never accept me? That is his problem.

It is now your problem too. I said I am not marrying Ada. Maybe we should let each other go. Don’t say that. I am saying it. You don’t mean it. Chica closed her eyes. She did not mean it, but she knew Aenna would never leave if she kept crying and begging. So, she said the one thing she knew would wound him.

I don’t love you anymore. What? I said I don’t love you anymore. No, I don’t believe you. It is the truth. No, Chica, you are only trying to push me away. Believe what you want. Look at me and say it again. She looked at him. Her heart was breaking inside, but she knew this was the only way to save him from a life of pushing Kek.

 I do not love you, Ikenna. Go back to Adzi. Ia stood in the dark. The words cut deeper than his father’s banishment, deeper than the hot sun on his back. You are lying. Chica walked away before her tears betrayed her. After that day, Chica changed. She stopped keeping food for him. When he came home tired, she acted busy.

 When he tried to talk, she gave short answers. The ker spoiled again. That is your business. Chica, what? You never talk to me like this. Maybe I am tired. Tired of what? Of everything. Just leave me alone. You can’t just shut me out. Tired of managing.

 Tired of hearing fuel price, tickets, KK repair every day. Chica’s heart was breaking, but she continued, “You are not ambitious enough, Ia.” What did you say? You heard me. A man from a rich family is here dragging KK money every day because he wants to prove love. Is that life? You don’t mean that. I do. No, you don’t.

I am fed up. I WANT A BETTER LIFE. I CANNOT continue like this. Kenna looked at her for a long time. He wanted to see the chica he knew. The one who said poverty was not a sickness. The one who gave him food. The one who defended him on the bad road. But this chica looked tired and closed. The arguments continued for days.

 Small things became big. Silence became normal. Is this what you want? Yes. You want me to leave? Yes. You want me to marry Ad? I still don’t believe you don’t love me. That is your choice. He waited. She said nothing. Finally, he picked up his bag. I hope one day you will tell me the truth.

Ia opened the door and stepped out. When the door closed, Chica stood frozen. She listened to his footsteps until they faded. Then she fell to the floor and cried. Not quiet tears, not the kind she could hide. I am so sorry [laughter and gasps] my daughter. Chica held her mother and cried harder.

I pushed him away, mama. I pushed him away. You did it because you love him. Then why does it hurt like this? Her mother had no answer. IA returned to his family house the next day. Mr. Obie was waiting. When he saw the small bag in Ekenna’s hand, he smiled. You have finally come back. Yes, Chica.

It is over. Good. Now we can repair your life. Ekkenna did not respond. Because deep inside he knew something his father did not know. His life had not been repaired. It had just been broken in a different way. And far away in her small room, Chica sat on the floor, quiet and empty.

The choice was made. Two lives, once bound by an unyielding fire, now sat in separate worlds, both restored to their pasts and both entirely destroyed inside. While Chica was breaking in silence, Akenna was back in his father’s house. The big bed was soft. The room was cool. The food was ready before he asked, but none of it gave him peace.

 He had returned to the life his father wanted, but his heart was still in Chica’s small room. A few weeks later, the wedding preparations began. Mr. Obi moved fast, as if he was afraid I would change his mind. No delays. It must be perfect. This marriage will make our family stronger. That is what I have always wanted.

  Ekkenna sat there quietly. Nobody asked what he wanted. A Daisy sat beside him, smiling at her phone. She was beautiful with smooth skin, expensive hair, and shining jewelry. She loved attention, and the wedding gave her plenty of it. Look at this one. I want something people will talk about for months.

It is fine. Everything is always fine to you. Are you not excited? I am tired. Tired from what? You are the groom. At least act happy. The wedding day came. It was big and expensive. People came in fine clothes. Music filled the air. Food was everywhere.

 Cameras flashed from every corner. This is a powerful union. Mr. Obi has done well. Adi looks like a queen. Ikenna stood beside her and smiled when the photographers asked him to smile, but his eyes were empty. Each time music played, he remembered Chica’s quiet laugh. When people clapped, he remembered the way Chica gave him food and said, “Eat first.

” When a Daisy held his hand for pictures, he remembered Chica’s hand shaking in his car after his parents rejected her. His body was at the wedding. His heart was somewhere else. After the wedding, Ada moved into the Obi family house. From the first week, everyone began to see her true character.

 She expected the workers to run whenever she called. “What is this, madam? It is tea. Tea? This is swill. You dare serve me this? I know it is tea. I am asking why it tastes like suffering. I am sorry, madam. Sorry for yourself. Go and make another one. Ada, you can correct someone without insulting her.

Mommy, I am not insulting her. I am only saying the truth. Mrs. Obie said nothing, but her face changed. A Daisy slept late and woke late. She spent money like water. She ordered clothes, shoes, bags, and jewelry every week. She refused to enter the kitchen. Adori, come and see how we prepare soup in this house.

Mommy, please. I don’t do kitchen work. You don’t do kitchen work? No. That is why workers are here. Rich women are not supposed to suffer in the kitchen. She remembered Chica at once. Chica who carried heavy food containers without shame. Chica who greeted with respect.

 Chica who had sat in that same room with fear in her eyes but dignity in her voice. Mrs. Obie looked at a daze and felt tired. Kenna avoided his wife as much as he could. He left the house early. He returned late. When a Daisy tried to sit near him, he became stiff. When she talked, he answered with short words. Ekenna. Yes.

Are we going to continue like this? Like how? Like strangers. I am tired. a days. You are always tired. Am I that ugly to you? It is not about beauty. Then what is it about? Ekenna stood up. Not tonight. He walked out of the room. A days stood there angry and embarrassed.

 Left alone in the beautiful house they had built on the ashes of his true love. She was beginning to understand something. Ekkenna did not love her. Far away from that big house, Chica was living a different kind of life. She tried to continue as if nothing had happened. She cooked, she sold food, she cared for her sick mother.

But her body began to change. Some mornings she woke up weak. Some afternoons the smell of food made her feel sick. At first she thought it was stress. My daughter, you are not looking well. I am only tired, mama. tired every day. I will be fine. But she was not fine. One morning she almost fainted while carrying a pot.

Chica, no. You are going to the clinic. I don’t have time. You don’t have strength either. Let us go. At the small clinic, the nurse asked some questions and run a test. Chica sat quietly, their hands cold. Madam, you are pregnant. What? You are pregnant. Ni looked at Chica quickly.

 Chica’s lips parted, but no words came out. You need to start care early. Your body is weak. Chica placed a hand on her stomach. Pregnant Ikenna’s child. No children. After another check, the nurse looked at her with surprise. You are carrying three babies. Three? Yes. Triplets. Jesus. Chica sat there without moving.

 The room seemed to turn slowly around her. Triplets. Ikenna’s triplets. You have to tell him. No, Chica. He deserves to know. He’s married now. So So I don’t want to break his home. Which home? The man married another woman because you pushed him away. I know what I did. Then tell him the truth. I can’t. Chica, how do you intend to raise three children alone? I will figure things out.

Figure things out with what money? Your mother is sick. Rent is due. Food is expensive. You are not even strong. I know. Then why are you punishing yourself? I don’t want him to suffer again because of me. And you think silence will solve everything? Maybe one day I will tell him, but not now. The pregnancy became harder as the months passed.

 Chica still tried to sell food, but she got tired quickly. Some days she sat beside her pot and fought sleep. Some customers complained that she was slow. You should rest at home. Rest does not pay bills. At home, Mama Chica’s sickness continued. Rent was due. Food became more expensive. Chica started reducing what she ate so her mother could eat.

At night, when her mother was sleeping, Chica would sit alone and cry quietly. She would place both hands on her stomach. Don’t worry, your mother will try. Sometimes the babies moved and she would cry more. I don’t know how yet, but I will try. She had little money. She had no rich family behind her.

 She had no husband beside her. But she had faith. She believed God had not forgotten her. Back in the Obi house, things were getting worse. Mr. Obi invited important guests for dinner one weekend. They were business friends, people he wanted to impress. Careful with the crystal. It must be perfect. Mrs.

 Zobie saw it as a chance to test Ada. That morning, she entered Ada’s room. Ada was still in bed pressing her phone. Ada, we have guests tonight. I know. You will prepare a simple meal. Me? Yes. Mommy, why? Because you are the wife of this house son. You should at least know how to serve guests. But we have cooks.

 Today you will cook. Mommy, rich women are not supposed to suffer in the kitchen. Nobody is asking you to suffer. I said prepare a simple meal. This is not fair. Dinner is by 7. A Daisy entered the kitchen later, angry and confused. The cook and maid stood aside because Mrs.

 Obie had told them not to help unless a daisy asked with respect. What are all these things? Madam, this is for soup. This one is rice. This one is meat. I can see meat. I am not blind. A daisy opened one pot, then another. She slammed the lids onto the counter. Her clumsy hands tried to grab the ingredients. Frustration was rising.

She poured too much salt into the soup. She left the rice on fire until it started burning. She cooked the meat, but some parts were still hard and red inside. By evening, the kitchen smelled of smoke and confusion. The guests arrived dressed well and smiling. Mr. Obi welcomed them with pride.

 Tonight, my daughter-in-law prepared the meal herself. Mrs. Obi sat quietly. Ikenna looked at his mother, already understanding. A Daisy came out wearing a fine dress, smiling as if nothing was wrong. The first guest took a spoon of soup and stopped. Another tasted the rice and coughed. Small was kindness. The food was bad.

The dinner became shameful. Is everything okay? Nobody answered at first. Then one guest said carefully, “Maybe the salt was a little too much.” Guests began to leave early, giving weak excuses. I have an early meeting tomorrow. Other said the rice has a small burnt. My driver is waiting.

I need to check on my wife. When the last guest left, Mr. Obie stood in the dining room with a hard face. What happened here? I tried my best. This is unacceptable. You insulted the cook instead of asking for help. Are you not going to say something? What do you want me to say? THAT YOUR MOTHER SET ME UP.

I asked you to cook one meal. Is that a setup? Mr. Obie said nothing for a long time. For the first time, he saw a daisy clearly. Not the rich man’s daughter, not the family connection, not the beautiful bride. He saw a proud, careless woman who did not know how to build peace in a home.

 His face showed disappointment. A Daisy noticed it and became angry. You enjoyed what happened today, right? No. You people wanted to disgrace me. I did not ask you to insult the cook. I did not ask you to burn rice. So now you are mocking me. I am telling you the truth. What is really your problem with me? Since this marriage started, you treat me like a stranger.

Ada, don’t start. NO, WE WILL START. AM I NOT YOUR WIFE? You are my wife because our fathers wanted it. What? I never wanted this marriage. My heart was never here. A Daisy stared at him as if he had slapped. So where is your heart? He did not answer. That’s poor girl.

Don’t call her that. So it is true you married me and kept loving another woman. I told my father I did not want this. But you still married me because I was weak. A Daisy’s pride could not take it. Daddy. You need to hear what Ekkenna just told me. My daughter said your son wants to disgrace her.

Young couple’s quarrel. This is not a quarrel. THIS IS A SCANDAL. This is not a small quarrel. If a Kenna leaves Adazi, our partnership ends. I mean it. Every deal, every contract, every joint investment, I will pull out. My daughter will not be used and dumped. The partnership was too big to lose. After he left, Mr. Obi called Iicena.

You will stay in that marriage. Daddy, I don’t love her. You should have thought of that before the wedding. You forced me into it and now you will remain there because of business. Because this family cannot afford disgrace and loss. So my life is a business paper now. You will do as I said.

IA left the study feeling like a prisoner in his own life. Days passed. He lived in the same house with a days but they were not a real couple. Aday was angry. Ekenna was empty. Mrs. Obi was tired. Mr. Obi acted strong. But something had changed in him after the dinner shame. He no longer praised a days the way he used to.

One afternoon, Mr. Obi went out alone. He did not take his driver. He wanted quiet. On his way back, he saw a woman standing near the roadside with a small bag in her hand. She looked tired. Her dress was simple. Her face looked thinner. Her stomach was heavy. Mr. Obie slowed down. At first, he was not sure. Then she turned slightly.

It was Chica. He parked and came down. Chica saw him and froze. Sir. Chica. Good afternoon, sir. His eyes moved to her stomach. The silence between them became heavy. How far gone are you? It is nothing, sir. Do not lie to me. She looked away. Mr. Obie’s voice became softer but still firm. Who is responsible? Sir, please.

Is it I Kenna? Tears gathered in her eyes. She could not answer, but her silence answered for her. [snorts and gasps] Chica, I did not want to cause trouble. How long have you known? For some months. And you did not tell him? He is married. For the first time, shame entered him deeply.

He remembered the day she sat in his sitting room. He remembered calling her a roadside food seller. He remembered telling to leave her. Now she stood before him carrying his grandchildren, tired and alone. How many? What the pregnancy? How many babies? Three sa triplets. A sound left his mouth.

 Half shock, half pain. He looked at her stomach again. His grandchildren, three of them, growing inside the woman he had rejected. Where are you staying, sir? I am fine. Where are you staying? You are not fine. I don’t want to break Ekkenna’s home. I broke his home before it even started. Come sir. I am taking you to where you can rest.

No sir, please. I don’t want trouble. Chica, you are carrying my grandchildren. You will not stand on the road looking like this while I’m alive. Sir, I did not plan this. I know. I loved him. I know that now. He helped her into the car. As he closed the door, his face was heavy with regret.

For months, he had fought to protect his name. But standing beside that car, watching Chica cry with his grandchildren inside her, Mr. Obie finally saw the truth. Pride had cost his family peace. And now he had to repair what his own hands had broken. He drove Chico away from the roadside in silence.

She was still afraid. She did not know if this kindliness would later turn into another insult. Mr. Obi noticed her fear. Chica, I am not taking you there to hurt you. Sir, I don’t want trouble. I know. IA is married now. I know that, too. I only wanted peace. Mr. Obi did not answer immediately.

 He kept driving, but his eyes were heavy. I used to think peace came from protecting a family name. Now I see that peace comes from doing what is right. I did not tell Ikenna because I did not want to destroy his life. My daughter, his life was already destroyed when I forced him to leave you. Mr.

 Obie took her to one of the family’s quiet houses. It was not the main family house. It was peaceful, clean, and safe. When Chica entered, she stopped at the door. The sitting room was wide. The curtains were clean. The air was cool. There was enough space everywhere. Sir, I cannot stay here. You can. This place is too much.

You are carrying three children. You need rest. People will talk. Let them talk. I don’t want Ad to know. Adi is not your burden. This is Chica. She will stay here. She must not lack anything. Food, water, hospital visits, everything. If she needs anything, call me. Yes, sir. Thank you. Don’t thank me yet.

 I should have done better from the beginning. That evening, Mr. Obi went home and told Mrs. Obi everything. Mrs. Obie was in the room folding clothes. When he entered, she noticed his face at once. What happened? I have to tell you something. I saw Chica today. Chica? Yes. Where? By the roadside. How is she? Mr.

 Obi looked at his wife with regret in his eyes. She is pregnant. No. She is carrying Ekenna’s children. How many? Three. Triplets. Oh god. And we rejected her. I rejected her. We both did. She has been suffering alone. Where is she now? I took her to the quiet house. I am going there. Not tonight.

 She is tired. Let her rest. We will go tomorrow. Grandchildren. That poor girl has been carrying our grandchildren alone. Kenna must not know yet why. Not until Chica is stronger. Not until the babies are safely born. And not until I know how to handle Adan and her father. We caused this. Yes. No. No, sit down.

Good afternoon, ma. [gasps and laughter] Chica, I am sorry. I judged you. I looked down on you. I allowed pride to blind me. Please forgive me. Ma, it is okay. It is not okay. You were carrying my son’s children and you were suffering alone. I did not want to cause trouble. You are not trouble. You are family.

From that day, Mr. and Mrs. Obie began to care for Chica secretly. Mr. Obi paid for her hospital visits. Mrs. Obie bought baby clothes, soft blankets, and everything the triplets would need. Here you are, my dear. Fresh and hot. Thank you, Auntie Rose. You’re welcome. Now, rest well. Careful, ma’am. Let me assist you.

Thank you. A nurse came to check on her when she was too tired to move. Ma, I am not used to all this. You don’t have to be used to suffering before people believe you deserve care. I still feel afraid. For now, rest. Everything will be fine. At home, Ikenna noticed that his parents had changed. His father was quieter.

His mother smiled more often. Mommy. Yes, my son. You have been going out a lot these days. Is it a crime? No, but you look different. Different how? You look happy and sad at the same time. I just have peace. Peace in this house. Peace can start small. Daisy noticed too.

 She watched them from a distance. She saw Mrs. Obi leaving the house often. She saw Mr. Obi taking calls outside. She saw Ekenna looking confused. But nobody told her anything and that made her angry. Months passed. Chica’s pregnancy became heavy. Walking became hard. Sleeping became hard. Breathing sometimes felt hard. Ma I am scared.

I know. What if something happens? Nothing will happen. How do you know? Because God did not bring you this far to leave you. I wish I knew. Do you want him to know now? No. Let the babies come first. A few weeks later, the time came. Chica went into labor in the middle of the night. Auntie Rose called Mr. Obi first.

Sir, please come. It has started. Mr. Obie woke Mrs. Obie immediately. They rushed to the hospital. The delivery WAS LONG ON HER. Chica cried. She prayed. She held Mrs. OBIE’S HAND UNTIL HER I CAN’T. You can, my daughter. You can. After many hours, the cry of the first baby filled the room, a boy.

Mrs. Obie covered her mouth and cried. Then came the second baby, a girl. Then the third baby came, another girl. All three babies were alive, small, beautiful, healthy. Congratulations, a boy and two girls, my grandchildren. Thank you, God. Yes, mommy. Follow me to the hospital.

Hospital. Are you sick? No. I want to visit someone. Who? You will see. Is daddy aware? Yes, you’re certain. Mommy, you are scaring me. Just trust me. When they reached the hospital, she led him down a quiet hallway. Ekkenna became more confused. Mommy, who are we seeing? My son, before you enter, I want you to remember something.

What? Some blessings come back even after we have broken them. Each step forward carries the weight of secrets. In this room, nothing will be the same. Ikenna stood frozen, his world unraveling in a single paralyzing moment. The truth he saw left him in utter cognitive dissonance. He couldn’t move. He couldn’t think.

Chica was sitting on the bed, weak but alive. Beside her were three small babies wrapped in soft blankets. Chica, he cannot. This is really happening. What is thisa? These are your children. My children, a boy and two girls. I wanted to tell you, but you were

married. No. No. Chica, I did not want to destroy your life. You were my life. I should have fought harder. I should have known you were pushing me away. I should not have left you. I should not have left you. I told you I did not love you because I wanted you to go. I knew. But after some time, I got tired of fighting your words.

I failed you. Ikenna, I also hurt you. You were trying to save me. I was wrong. We were both broken. But I will make this right. I know I cannot just come back and expect everything to be fine. I forgive you, Ekenna, but my heart is still hurt. I understand. Forgiveness can come. Trust needs time.

I will wait. I will prove it. knew. But I did not know that. He wanted his father to face the truth with him. No. Rest. Daddy, you are now a grandfather. Mr. Obie looked at the three babies. Even though he had seen them before, the words from Ikenna’s mouth broke him again.

He began to cry. Ekkenna had never seen his father cry like that. Mr. Obi walked to Chica’s bedside and lowered head. Chica, forgive me, sir. No, let me speak. I let pride blind me. I chose status over my son’s happiness. I judged you because you did not come from wealth. I thought I was protecting my family but I was destroying it.

I have forgiven you sir. From today you and these children are part of this family not hidden not in shame openly. Ikenna looked at his father. For the first time in a long time, he saw a different man. A man who had finally learned. But trouble was still waiting at home. A Daisy had been watching everybody.

Ekenna was leaving the house often. Mrs. Obie was always smiling. Mr. Obi was quiet but peaceful. Nobody explained anything to her home. Where does this family keep going? Madam, I don’t know. Don’t lie to me. Madam, please. If you don’t talk, I will make sure you lose this job. [panting and gasps] The driver looked around.

 He had heard enough in the house to know the truth. Madam, please don’t say I told you. Talk. Oga Ia has children. What? Chica. How many triplets? Madam a daisy staggered back. Triplets with Chica, the poor girl, the woman Ekenna loved. Ada’s anger rose. So everybody knew and hid it from me.

Madam, I don’t know anything again. Daddy, they have disgraced me in front of everyone. The shame. What happened? Kenna has children with that poor girl. Triplets. His parents know they have been visiting her. What? They kept it from me like I am a fool. That same evening, he called Mr. Obi.

You think you can shame my daughter and STILL KEEP MY BUSINESS? ANSWER ME. DO YOU HEAR ME, OBIE? EVERY PARTNERSHIP ends today. I WILL DESTROY THAT YOUR COMPANY. AH, MR. Obi closed his eyes. In the past, fear would have entered him, but not now. You can’t do this to me. I WON’T ALLOW IT. YOU HEAR ME. ANSWER ME. DAMN IT.

DON’T YOU DARE IGNORE ME. He had seen Chica by the roadside. He had seen his grandchildren. He had seen what Pride had done. He answered calmly, “Do what you want.” “What did you say?” I said, “Do what you want. My family has suffered enough because of pride. You are choosing that girl over my daughter. I am choosing truth.

 You will regret this.” No, I have already regretted enough. He ended the call. The next morning, Mr. Obi called Adai into the sitting room. Ikenna was there. Mrs. Obi was there. Two elders from the family were also there. Adi entered with red eyes and anger on her face. What is this meeting about? Ada, this marriage is over.

 What? You will return to your father’s house. You cannot throw me out. I can. My father will finish you. Let him try. Are you hearing your father? Adise. I am sorry for how this marriage happened. I should never have agreed to it. So now you are choosing that food seller. Do not insult Chica.

She trapped you with children. Enough. You two, you people were pretending all this while. You came into this house and treated everyone like servants. You never wanted a home. You wanted comfort and status. A Daisy’s eyes filled with tears, but her pride was still strong. You people will beg me. Money cannot force love.

The words entered the room and stayed there. A Daisy looked from one face to another. Nobody begged. Nobody moved. For the first time, she saw that her father’s name could not save her there. She went to her room and packed her expensive bags. When she left the house, she did not look back.

She returned to her father’s house in shame. She had lost the marriage. She had lost the status. She had lost the power she thought she had. After a daisy left, peace slowly returned. Chica and the triplets were brought into the family openly, not in hiding, not as a secret. Mr. Obi himself went to bring Mama Chica.

 Mama Chica was weak, but when she saw the house and saw her daughter safe, she cried, “I never thought I would see this day.” Mama, God did not forget us. No, my child, he brought you back to me. Madam, forgive me for the pain I caused your daughter. Just treat her well. I will. Mrs. Obie treated Chica with love.

She carried the babies, bathed them sometimes, and stayed with Chica when the nights were hard. Mr. Obi respected Chica. He no longer looked at her as a poor food seller. He looked at her as the woman who had loved his son when she thought he had nothing. Ikenna did not rush Chica. He visited her everyday.

 How are you feeling today, my love? A little better. Thank you for being here. He held the babies. He fed them. He learned how to carry them without fear. One night, one of the girls cried for a long time. Ikenna carried her and walked around the room. Chica watched him quietly. You are tired. I am fine. You can give her to me.

 No, you have carried them longer than all of us. Day by day, he proved himself. He respected Chica’s mother. He stood by Chica when people whispered. He no longer allowed anyone to call her poor or lucky. One afternoon, a distant relative came to visit and said carelessly, “At least Chica’s life has changed now.

 From roadside food to this house.” Chica’s life changed mine first. The woman became quiet. Chica looked at Akenna. He did not look away. I forgive you, but you must show me that you can stand for me. I will not fail you again. You said that before. I know. This time, watch my actions. I did not forget the life of the old Kek. He remembered the insults.

 He remembered the fuel queue. He remembered the ticket boys. He remembered the bad roads. He remembered passengers refusing to pay. He remembered how people threw money at him like he had no value. He remembered how poor men were treated like they were invisible. I want us to start something. What kind of thing? A foundation.

For who? For tricycle drivers, small food sellers, poor mothers, people who work hard but nobody sees them. And I want you to lead it. Me? Yes, Ia. I don’t know how to lead a foundation. You know how to care. That is the first thing. I can handle the money and structure. You will help us know who truly needs help.

Okay, that sounds good. I know what it means to be afraid of rent. I know what it means to sell food while your body is weak. I know what it means to wonder how tomorrow will be. That is why you should lead it. So they opened the foundation. They helped hardworking tricycle drivers own their own KK through fair payment.

They helped drivers repair their tricycles without falling into heavy debt. Thank you. I am so grateful. They supported small food sellers with cooking equipment and small business money. Here is your new equipment and capital. Oh, thank you. This is wonderful. They paid hospital bills for poor mothers.

 They gave support to pregnant women who had nobody. Chica listened to their stories with tears in her eyes. Madam, you don’t know what you have done for me. I know more than you think. IA also changed his family business. He called the managers and workers together. Nobody should be treated badly because they are poor.

 The driver, the cleaner, the gate man, the junior staff, everybody deserves respect. Some people were surprised. Mr. Obi sat at the back of the room listening. I have lived as a man people look down on. I know how it feels in this company. We will not insult people because of their level. The workers clapped. Mr.

 Obi looked at his son with pride. IA had gone out to find love, but he had returned with wisdom. Months passed. Chica healed. The babies grew. The boy was calm like Ia. The first girl cried loudly when she wanted attention. The second girl smiled at everyone. The house became full of noise, but it was a sweet kind of noise.

 One evening, Ikenna came to Chica with a small box. She looked at him and smiled. What is inside? Kenna. Chica, will you marry me? You will stand for me always. You will not let anybody treat me like I am less. Never again. You will remember where we started. How can I forget the old K.

Yes. Yes. Their wedding was not like IA’s first wedding. It was not full of noise to impress people. It was simple, beautiful, and full of joy. Chica wore a lovely traditional outfit. She looked peaceful, not because everything had been easy, but because she had survived what was meant to break her.

Ia stood beside her with pride. This time, his smile was real. Mama Chica sat in front, smiling with tears in her eyes. The triplets were dressed beautifully. One baby slept through most of the ceremony. The boy held Ienna’s finger and refused to let go. My grandchildren, my joy.

I once thought wealth was the greatest thing a family could protect. I was wrong. Peace is greater. Love is greater. A good heart is greater. My daughter, welcome home. People who once looked down on Chica now watched her with respect. Some whispered, some smiled, some wish they had treated her better.

 But Chica did not need their approval anymore. She had peace. After the ceremony, Ikenna took Chica aside for a quiet moment. The old tricycle was parked nearby. He had kept it. The paint was still faded. The seat was still old. The horn was still weak. You still have this thing. Of course, it reminds me of us.

I can’t believe it. How can I throw it away? It suffered with you. It led me to you. I entered this kek with food containers and you told me God bless my hustle. You remembered. I remember everything. That old ke gave me the best gift of my life. What gift? for this noisy world.

  She leaned into him quietly for a moment. There was no pain, no pride, no shame, no fear, only peace. Ikenna had started by pretending to be poor because he wanted to test love. But life tested him instead. True love is kindness. True love is patience. True love is respect.

 True love is the person who stays gentle when they think you have nothing. And fora and Chica, love finally found a home.