The next thing that changed was subtle.
Daniel started using the word “when” instead of “if.”
“When we fix a date.”
“When we speak to the pastor.”
“When you move.”
It wasn’t pressure.
But it was direction.
And direction can feel heavy when your feet are still adjusting.
One evening, we were seated in the living room with Maya and Clara when Daniel said it again.
“When we do the introduction properly, I think we should keep it small.”
Maya looked up immediately.
“Small how?”
“Immediate family. No extended drama.”
Clara smirked. “There is no such thing as small in this family.”
Everyone laughed lightly.
But I went quiet.
When.
Not if.
Not maybe.
When.
Later that night, I followed him outside.
The compound was quiet. Generator hum from next door. Someone frying plantain d
