Tawheeda Incidental Wealth

CHAPTER 7

It was a quiet Wednesday noon when Tee’s aunt, Afaafa, called her into the living room. “There’s a function this weekend at a family friend’s house, and you must attend with me,” she said, smiling warmly. Tee, curious but not bothered, nodded. She was used to gracing social events with her aunt, who always seemed to know wealthy and influential persons in Nairobi.

“This one’s special, unlike the other gatherings we have been going together,” her aunt added. “We’re going to the Mpendas’ house. Mr. George Mpenda is hosting a welcoming party for his son, Okello.”

Tee had been hearing of the Mpendas—especially George, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist who owned several ventures across the country, including the renowned hospital where she works. However, she had never met his children.

"Okello just graduated as a nephrologist and will oversee his father’s hospital and some establishments," her aunt explained. "And… there’s something else."

Tee raised a brow, sensing there was really more to this invitation.

“George and I have spoken at length,” her aunt said cautiously. “He thinks Okello is ready to settle down as a family man, and I told him there’s someone I know, someone who would be a perfect match for him.”

Tee’s heart raced a beat. “Auntie… Who did you tell him about?” she asked, though she already knew the right answer.

“You, of course,” her aunt said gently. “Tee, this is a wonderful opportunity for you, to take your parents and siblings out of poverty. The Mpendas are a well-respected family, and Okello is an exceptional, aspiring young man. Meeting him would open many doors for you in high places in society.”

Tee felt a knot tighten in her belly. She hadn’t expected this. Her mind immediately went to Ashura—her love, her partner, the one she had promised a future with. This wasn’t just another party; it was something much more complicated.

“But Auntie,” Tee began, her voice hesitant, “I’m already with someone. You know that.”

Her aunt gave her a sympathetic look. “I know, darling. But life sometimes takes unimagined turns. I’m not asking you to make your decision right away. Just come to the party. Meet Okello, and see how things will unfold.”

Reluctantly, Tee agreed, though her heart was very heavy.

The night of the party arrived, and Tee found herself at the vast Mpenda estate. The mansion was grand, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and an all-encompassing garden filled with blooming flowers. She felt out of place among the beautifully dressed guests, though her aunt glowed with pride, introducing her to everyone.

Eventually, Tee was introduced to Mr. George Mpenda himself, a tall, charismatic man with a calm smile. “Ah, so this is the young lady I’ve been hearing lots about,” George said, his eyes twinkling. “Your aunt has told me wonderful things about you, and really impressed, Tee.”

Tee forced a polite smile, but her nerves only grew when George introduced her to his son Okello.

Okello Mpenda was remarkably handsome, with a calm and confident comportment. He greeted Tee warmly, his voice soft but assured. "It’s nice to meet you, Tee," he said, offering a warm handshake.

Despite her hesitations, Tee couldn’t help but notice Okello’s charm. He talked about his experiences overseas, his passion for medicine, and his excitement about returning to Home to oversee the family hospital. But Tee found herself unfocused, her thoughts wandering to Ashura and the promises they had made to each other.

Throughout the evening, Okello remained mindful and respectful, clearly interested in getting to know Tee is. George watched them closely, pleased with the chemistry. Tee’s aunt, too, smiled admiringly from across the room, hoping that this meeting would mark the beginning of something promising.

But Tee’s heart was unrest. She knew she had to tell Ashura about the evening, even though she hadn’t done anything wrong yet. It was becoming evident that her life was being pulled in two directions—one toward the safe, luxurious path her aunt had laid out for her, and the other toward the unsure but deeply cherished future she had planned with Ashura.

As the night drew to a close, Okello offered to walk her to the car. “I’d like to see you again, sometimes soon, if you’re open to it,” he said with a smile that was both real and expectant.

Tee hesitated for a moment. “Surely,” she said softly, her mind still muddled with conflicting emotions.

When she finally got home, she lay awake on her bed, staring at the ceiling. She understood that the choices she made in the coming days could change everything, her career, her relationship with Ashura, and the life she had always dreamed of building with her childhood friend.

And as much as she tried to validate herself decisions, she knew there was no easy way out of this.