WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING.

EPISODE 14: A LOVE REKINDLED

It felt different in the days after the showcase. There were no grand gestures, no emotional reunion, and no declarations reminiscent of a movie scene. Rather, I started a slow, intentional rhythm with Emeka. We continued our conversation. Not only about ourselves, but also about the things we'd never bothered to talk about, like our dreams, our anxieties, and the unseen scars we all had and how we'd come to terms with them.

He was there, emotionally as well as physically. One morning, he arrived early with breakfast and remained to accompany me on Oyinye's walk to school. We chuckled at how quickly she was developing and how she now insisted on choosing her own outfits, even if it meant wearing socks that didn't match. She loved him, and for the first time in a long time, I didn't hold my breath as I saw that love blossom.

I informed him of my intentions to grow the company and establish a modest training centre for mothers who are single. His eyes glowed with appreciation, and without attempting to assume control, he offered his assistance. One evening while we sat in my kitchen drinking wine and Oyinye colouring on the floor, he remarked, "I love the way your mind works." "Amaka, you're not simply getting by. You're constructing.

His comments resonated deeply because I believed them, not just because they were kind. I wasn't searching for a man to save me for the first time. I was only allowing him to walk with me as I rescued myself. Shortly thereafter, he made a mistake and reached for my hand. In this instance, I did not retreat. I allowed myself to lean into the comfort and let him hold it. Although it wasn't erratic, the warm, continuous electricity was a sign of something solid and genuine.

Later that evening, Emeka turned to face me as we stood on the balcony overlooking the peaceful street. "Are you still unsure?" he enquired quietly. I glanced at him, then up at the stars. "I believe that doubts will always exist, somewhere. However, I also believe that love isn't about denying the existence of fear. The important thing is to show up. He tenderly pressed his lips to my forehead as he leaned in. "Then let's continue to be present."

The moment wasn't ideal. It didn't promise a perfect future or erase the past. However, it was genuine. Sincere. And because of that, it was more exquisite than anything I had ever seen. I was aware that there would be obstacles in the way. However, I felt prepared as I stood there, surrounded by dreams and innocence, with Emeka at my side and Oyinye sleeping within. All set to fall in love. All set to go. All set to start over.