Mr. Olum nodded slowly, his face unreadable.
"You remember the agreement our fathers made," Barasa continued, leaning forward, his fingers clenched together. "Linet was to marry your son, Francis. We allowed the young ones to explore their way first… but now, I see the elders were right. Her heart can't guide her—it's leading her astray."
Mr. Olum sighed. "I remember it well. Francis was always fond of her. He asked me last year if the arrangement still stood. I told him it would depend on the girl's heart… but if it's your wish now—"
Barasa's eyes flashed with resolution. "It is. I want Francis to come home. I want the marriage preparations to begin. That girl needs grounding, and Francis can offer that. He is responsible, focused, and he has never embarrassed this family."
