PART 19: “THE FAMILIES MEET”

A few months after the proposal, Kwabena made his way to the Central Region, not to see Manda this time but her family.

He wore his best African print, brought along his uncle and two elders from Suame, and carried traditional gifts: schnapps, cloth, and an envelope not of cash alone, but of intention.

Manda's parents, humble educators themselves, welcomed the entourage with grace. Her mother,

a headmistress, spoke little but her eyes never left Kwabena.

"You say you love our daughter. She is quiet, thoughtful, and stubborn when she's sure. Are you ready for a life of gentle resistance?" her mother asked bluntly.

Kwabena smiled. "Madam, I teach mathematics I understand problems that don't speak unless you solve them with patience."

Everyone laughed. And with that, he won her heart.

A month later, it was Manda's turn to travel to Suame to meet Kwabena's parents. His mother, a retired caterer and business woman, took one look at Manda, pulled her close, and whispered:

"Ei… so this is the one who made my son stop crushing on Rita."

They both laughed awkwardly but sincerely.