I used to think I understood the basics of love — until the day my friend Dan invited me to help address his son’s troubling situation.
Dan asked me to join a meeting with his son Solomon (whom we call Solly), a young woman named Sophia — whom Solly claimed as his wife — and another man, Tendani. Dan’s wife was also present, making five of us in total.
Dan opened the meeting with a heavy sigh: “The reason I called you all here is because I need help unravelling a problem. My son Solomon insists that Sophia is his wife. As you can see, she is pregnant. She spends most of her days here with him. But yesterday, while I was out, I met this young man, Tendani. He claims Sophia is his wife. I’ll let him speak for himself.”
Tendani leaned forward, his voice sharp with anger: “Thank you, sir. This woman is my wife, and the child she carries is mine. I was shocked to hear she now lives with your son. When I first found out, I wanted to fight him — hurt him even — for stealing my wife and unborn child. I am not here to negotiate. Sophia, stand up. We’re leaving.”
I intervened: “Not so fast, young man. Let’s hear Solomon and Sophia’s side before we decide anything.” After some heated words, Tendani reluctantly agreed.
Solly spoke with calm conviction: “Sophia is my soon-to-be wife. I’ve loved her for over five years. I was stunned when my father told me about your claim. Let’s hear the truth from Sophia herself.”
Sophia smiled faintly, as if the gravity of the moment didn’t touch her. I asked sharply: “Sophia, what’s amusing here? You don’t seem bothered at all.”
She sighed, then spoke with unsettling honesty: “I’m sorry, my parents. I was distracted. Let me be truthful: both these men are my lovers, and I love them both. I love Solly for his security and financial support — that’s why I spend most of my time here. But Tendani … I met him at some party months ago. He’s fun, he loves to go out, and I enjoy his company. I’m sorry if I disappointed you, my in-laws, but at least I’ve spoken the truth.”
I pressed her: “Then tell us — who is the father of your child?” Her answer was chilling: “I don’t know. It could be either of them.”
At that, Tendani exploded in rage: “Sophia, you think you’re clever? Don’t forget I know about Tom, the bouncer at the tavern. He told me he slept with you too! And now I find out about Solly? I’m done. I wash my hands of you. I want nothing to do with this woman.” He stormed out, leaving the room tense and broken.
Dan turned to his son: “Solly, after all this, what do you say?” Solly’s response was unwavering: “I still plan to marry her.” That was the breaking point for his mother, who had been silent until then. She erupted: “I will not be part of this rubbish! Solly, are there no decent women out there? Is this what you learn from church? Today, she must leave my house and never return. You are the biggest fool I’ve ever known!” She stormed out, her voice echoing behind her.
Meanwhile, Solly rose, gently helped Sophia to her feet, and declared: “Daddy, please, I don’t want anyone interfering in my love affair. When you married my mother, I didn’t interfere. Please leave me alone.” And with that, he left with Sophia.
The meeting ended in stunned silence. None of us had any words left.
VKRA Remarks:
Young men, let this be a lesson:
· Choose women of good morals. Beauty and charm may attract, but character sustains. A woman who values honesty, loyalty and respect will build your life, not break it.
· Do not be blinded by emotions alone. Love must be anchored in truth, responsibility and shared values. Without these, it becomes chaos.
· Guard your future. The decisions you make in relationships today will shape your family, your reputation and your peace tomorrow.
· Seek wisdom before commitment. A partner who plays with hearts and deceives will leave scars that last longer than fleeting pleasures.