Binary Hearts

Epilogue

Tunde knelt on one knee, holding a velvet box with a sparkling diamond ring inside, his eyes locking with Adaora's. Her hands flew to her mouth, tears streaming down her face as he began to speak.

"Adaora, you've been my anchor, my strength, and my light. Through every trial, you've stood by me, and I can't imagine a future without you. Will you marry me?"

Adaora, overwhelmed with emotion, nodded through her tears. "Yes, Tunde! Yes!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling with joy.

As she reached for the ring, the lights suddenly came on, illuminating a room full of people. Adaora gasped, realizing they weren't alone. Friends, family, and loved ones burst into applause, cheering and laughing as they surrounded the couple. Sam, Mide, Adaora's uncle, and even Paul were among the crowd. Adaora looked around in amazement, unable to believe so many had been part of the secret.

The wedding was a grand affair, blending both Yoruba and Igbo traditions in a vibrant celebration of love and unity. The first ceremony was the traditional Igbo wedding, igbankwu nwanyi, held in Adaora's family compound. Adaora, resplendent in a glittering red-and-gold George wrapper and matching headpiece, was the epitome of grace. Tunde, clad in an intricately embroidered Isiagu outfit, performed the traditional wine-carrying ritual, where Adaora presented him with a cup of palm wine to signify her acceptance of him as her husband. Guests feasted on nkwobi, ofe nsala, isi ewu, and jollof rice, while the sound of oja and Igbo highlife music filled the air.

Next was the Yoruba wedding, hosted in Lagos. Adaora wore a stunning purple-and-gold aso oke, her gele perfectly tied, while Tunde donned an agbada that matched her outfit. They knelt before Tunde's elders to receive blessings, followed by a vibrant display of Yoruba culture. The reception was filled with the aroma of amala, gbegiri, ewedu, and fried snails, with large bowls of peppered fish and ofada rice. Drummers performed electrifying bata beats, and the couple was showered with sprays of naira and dollar notes as they danced.

On their white wedding day, Adaora walked down the aisle in a flowing white gown that accentuated her growing baby bump, glowing with maternal pride. She was pregnant with a boy, a symbol of the family's growing legacy. Tunde, waiting at the altar in a sleek navy-blue suit, couldn't take his eyes off her. As she reached him, they exchanged heartfelt vows that brought many to tears.

The reception was a mix of elegance and cultural flair, blending English-style décor with African prints. Guests from both families celebrated as one, uniting under the shared joy of the couple's love. Mide delivered a heartfelt toast, praising their resilience and commitment. Sam cheered loudly, drawing laughter, while Paul's quiet presence surprised everyone, showing he was ready to make amends.

As the evening drew to a close, Adaora sat beside Tunde, her hands gently resting on her growing belly. She smiled, her heart full as she gazed at the man who had stood by her through every storm. Her thoughts drifted to her late mother, whose love and sacrifices had shaped her into the woman she was today.

Adaora whispered, almost to herself, "Mama, I've kept my promise. I've married the love of my life, and I've made something of myself." Tears welled in her eyes, but they were tears of joy, not sorrow.

Her career had blossomed beyond her wildest dreams. From a young girl struggling to find her place, she had risen to become a tech industry trailblazer, mentoring young women and proving that resilience and determination could overcome any obstacle. Beside her, Tunde beamed with pride, knowing they had both worked tirelessly to build a life filled with love, purpose, and success.

Surrounded by friends, family, and a legacy of love and unity, Adaora felt at peace. The echoes of the past no longer haunted her; they were now a reminder of how far she had come. She leaned into Tunde, whispering, "Our story is just beginning."

And with that, their journey continued—rooted in love, bound by promises fulfilled, and inspired by dreams yet to be realized.

Tunde smiled warmly at Adaora, his eyes filled with love. "Now that you're my wife, I think it's time for a Yoruba name," he said thoughtfully. After a moment, he grinned. "Shewa. It means beauty."

Adaora beamed, the name feeling like a perfect fit. "Shewa," she repeated softly, her heart brimming with happiness. It was a new name for a new chapter

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