A Bride's Story

Chapter 19: Intruders

The small courtyard of the Eihon residence buzzed with activity as Seleke approached the three strangers. Her eyes flickered with curiosity and concern as she studied the rough men before her. Tileke stood by her side, clutching her skirt.

"Yes?" Seleke inquired, her voice filled with concern. "And who might you be?"

Azel, stepping forward with a composed demeanor, met Seleke's gaze directly. He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking.

"We are the Halgals," Azel introduced, his voice calm but carrying an air of authority. "We have come to discuss a matter of utmost importance concerning our sister, Amira. Is the master of the house home?"

Seleke's eyebrows furrowed in puzzlement, her gaze shifting between the three men. She sensed there was more to their arrival than met the eye. Tileke peered up at her mother, her curiosity piqued by the unexpected visitors.

Later, under the cool shade of the pavilion, Azel, Baimat, and Joruk sat in the company of Akunbek and Mahatbek. Sanira and Seleke moved gracefully, serving fragrant cups of tea to the gathered guests. Unbeknownst to the adults, the children watched from a hidden spot, their eyes wide with curiosity, absorbing every word exchanged.

Azel took a deep breath, his voice steady yet tinged with regret. "We made a mistake when we offered Amira's hand in marriage. I want you to give her back to us."

Akunbek and Mahatbek exchanged shocked glances, their eyes widening in disbelief. Sanira and Seleke, standing nearby, wore expressions of surprise and concern. The unexpected turn of events left them all momentarily speechless, uncertain of how to respond.

Akunbek, gathering his composure, spoke. "Hold on a minute. What do you mean by that? We've already gone through with the marriage ceremony. It's too late to bring up such matters now. And where were you when it all took place? You didn't even show up for the wedding."

Akunbek's anger grew, his voice filled with indignation. "This is reckless talk. Regardless of any mistake you may have made, it's a done deal. Amira is now a cherished member of our family. There's nothing to discuss!"

Azel maintained his calm demeanor, patiently listening to Akunbek's outburst. He understood the gravity of the situation and the emotional attachments involved.

Akunbek continued, emphasizing his point. "Our hands are clean in this matter. Amira has become an integral part of our family. She's not an object that I can simply return."

Joruk, in a hushed whisper, acknowledged Akunbek's reasoning. "He's got a point," he muttered to himself. Baimat shot him a stern look, urging him to remain silent and respectful.

Azel, breaking the silence, finally spoke again, his voice measured and steady. "... Has a child been born yet?"

The Eihon family fell into silence, contemplating Azel's question. Amira had only been living with them for a month, and Karluk was still a child himself.

Azel pressed on, his tone firm yet composed. "If no child has been born, then they are not yet officially husband and wife."

As Azel declared his position, the room fell into an uneasy stillness. The Eihon family remained silent, their expressions a mix of apprehension and contemplation. Mr. Smith and Yusuf, observing from the sidelines, exchanged a puzzled glance, questioning the unfolding situation.

Azel's voice grew louder, his frustration and determination becoming evident. "Regardless of your stance, Amira still belongs to our clan. We have the final say over her."

Mr. Smith turned to Yusuf, seeking some form of confirmation or clarity. "Is that really how it is?" he asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

Yusuf, remaining silent, maintained an inscrutable expression, withholding his thoughts and emotions.