When Chioma walked into the apartment after work, the tantalising aroma of Louisa's ofe egusi filled the air. Louisa, already home, was busy with dinner preparations. Chioma entered the kitchen with a smile, playfully hugging her mum from behind.
'Mum, thank you for always taking care of me,' Chioma said gratefully.
'Are you hungry? Your appetite is legendary, but you haven't turned into a pig just yet – maybe because you weren't born in the Year of the Pig, huh?' Louisa turned, peering into Chioma's eyes. She sensed a deeper happiness brewing, the kind that radiates when a dream man becomes a beau. Could the mysterious car-bumping gentleman finally have won her heart? Louisa knew Chioma was a sweet young lady, but something felt responsible for this radiant glow. Gently tilting Chioma's chin, she asked, 'Did that mysterious fellow finally sweep you off your feet?'
'Mum... I'm hungry,' Chioma replied, flustered by her mother's sudden question. 'Besides, I got my paycheck today – reason enough to be happy, right?'
Louisa nodded with a smile. Since Chioma didn't want to discuss it further, she didn't press the topic, even though she knew her question had hit the mark. Chioma was in love, and Michael was the reason behind her glowing happiness. Louisa herself had experienced the river of love and could recognise its scent whenever it was present.
'Food's almost ready. Go change,' Louisa instructed.
Chioma hurried to her bedroom, slipping into a comfortable red home dress before returning to the dining table. Louisa had already set the food on the table, and Chioma took her seat. It was a simple meal of ofe egusi and akpu. Just in time, Andrew arrived home. He took off his shirt, washed his hands, and joined Chioma at the table, eagerly digging into the meal. Louisa watched her children with joy, feeling proud of the individuals they had become. She was grateful to God for blessing her with these two wonderful children.