The Contract
324 Words
Amina barely slept that night.
The contract lay on the small table in her rented apartment while rain tapped steadily against the tin roof. Her mother sat quietly across from her, sipping tea.
"You've been staring at those papers for an hour," her mother said gently.
Amina sighed.
"If someone offered you enough money to solve all our problems, but asked you to marry a stranger, what would you do?"
Her mother's eyes widened.
"Marry a stranger?"
"It's... complicated."
After hearing the entire story, her mother remained silent for a long moment.
"Only you can make that decision," she said at last. "Money can help us, but peace of mind is priceless. Do not accept anything that compromises your dignity."
The next morning, Amina arrived at Okello Group headquarters.
Daniel was already waiting.
"Have you made your decision?" he asked.
She took a deep breath.
"I have."
She placed the signed contract on his desk.
"I'll do it."
For the first time, Daniel looked genuinely surprised.
"You read every page?"
"Twice."
"And?"
"I added one condition."
He raised an eyebrow.
"If anyone insults my family, the agreement ends immediately."
A faint smile appeared on his face.
"Accepted."
He signed beside her amendment.
"Welcome, Mrs... almost Mrs. Okello."
Amina's heart skipped a beat.
This was really happening.
Daniel stood.
"The wedding is in three days."
"Three days?" she exclaimed.
"My grandmother's condition is worsening. We do not have much time."
Amina rubbed her forehead.
"I don't even have a wedding dress."
"I'll arrange one."
"I've never planned a wedding."
"You won't have to."
Everything about this man was efficient.
Almost too efficient.
Just then, his assistant knocked on the door.
"Sir, the media has learned about the engagement rumors."
Daniel looked at Amina.
"It begins sooner than I expected."
He walked to the window.
"From this moment onward, we're engaged."
Amina stared at him in disbelief.
"My life has officially gone completely out of control."
- Writer
