At this juncture, you might be curious about my life before Willowbrook. I’m simply a young, adventurous woman with ebony skin, flowing locks, deep black eyes, and a radiant smile. Chris, a chapter from my past. We crossed paths during my freshman year at university. He was an ambitious young man, and we shared some wonderful moments, building a life together that was nothing short of beautiful.

However, Chris, astute and perceptive, perceived an innocence in me and was drawn to be with me for that reason. Love? Perhaps. We spent years together, became engaged to be wed, but eventually, I began to see the extent of his manipulation. I danced to his tune, followed his lead, and obeyed his every command. Let me be clear, Chris was once a sweet boy I fell hopelessly in love with. Yet, I evolved beyond his style – domineering, controlling, and manipulative.

I couldn’t commit to Chris, for I had outgrown his tactics and come to a deeper understanding. While we shared good days, life has a way of serving up its portions. It’s not that I don’t appreciate Chris; he simply no longer aligns with the woman I’ve become. I yearn for a fresh start, a new love, a partner to embark on adventures, explore the world hand in hand.

Yet, here I am, once again, hopelessly smitten with Ryan. How does one carry on? How do I navigate this life without the man who has captured my heart? He may not even realize it yet. How selfish can I be? Do I truly grasp the magnitude of my actions? He belongs to another! Note to self.

In my childhood, My brother and I were raised by our parents. They poured their love into me, creating a beautiful foundation. Like any teenager, I had visions of my dream man, a tall, sturdy prince charming. I envisioned a warm welcome home, making love every day and night, sharing hearty meals, and laughing together, destined for a happily ever after. With Chris, that dream seemed elusive.

Perhaps I shouldn’t have said ‘yes’ when he proposed, but at that moment, I couldn’t bear to disappoint my parents, my brother, and dear friends, all beaming with anticipation. It was a lesson learned the hard way. Chris still lingers, hoping for a second chance. Meanwhile, here I am, longing for another woman’s man – the irony of life, indeed.

It’s been two years since my arrival in Willowbrook, and today is a radiant morning, summer in full bloom. Vibrant blossoms paint the landscape, and the sun bathes everything in golden light. A perfect weekend for a swim, a workout, and perhaps a fresh hairstyle. After a warm shower, I wrapped my long, dark tresses in a towel, and as I peered out the window, there was Ryan, donned in a t-shirt, tending to the lawn.

In that moment, my breath caught, his sweat glistening in the sunlight, his strong arms, and I yearned to hold him close. ‘I’d cross oceans for you, Ryan,’ I whispered to myself. Plans shifted. I dressed swiftly to tackle my own lawn, a clever ploy to strike up a conversation. But, alas, I hurt my smallest toe. ‘Be calm, Adunni,’ I chided myself. I persevered, and when Ryan greeted me, I replied in kind. We exchanged pleasantries, reminiscing about old times. Yes, how have you been? I missed you, Ryan, it’s been a while since we have seen or spoken. Oh no, did I just tell Ryan I missed him? No way! He heard me loud and clear! What have I done? Ryan smiled back at me as he walked towards me, yes, he was coming closer, oh dear

Ryan. I have been busy with work and taking care of the farm, he responded with a very big smile, did I just see a spark? No, I didn’t, he was just being himself. We had a 30-minute conversation, I could feel my hair strands, my brain freezing, my heart pumping at over 100 beats per minute. Call me crazy but that was how I feel.

As the conversation flowed, I felt a strange blend of elation and trepidation. ‘Can I have your mobile number?’ Ryan asked, to which I eagerly agreed, my heart dancing within me. Is this wise, Adunni? I wondered, but I vowed to carry myself with grace.

Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and our correspondence remained steady. I’ve recently taken on the role of storekeeper at the largest farm shop in the village, and it’s Ryan who provides our store with an array of fresh, farm-grown produce. We found endless topics to discuss, and I eagerly anticipated his visits to supply the farm shop. It amazed me how well I concealed my feelings. One thing was certain – I couldn’t entertain the thought of being with Ryan. He had his own beautiful family, and I refused to be an interloper. I wasn’t that sort of woman.

Yet, what to do with these burgeoning feelings? They surged and surged, never abating. Our conversations remained rooted in business and the general course of life. ‘Ryan, sweep me off my feet, just a touch, maybe a kiss,’ I yearned silently. Ryan had mentioned his upcoming trip to Spain with his siblings, not his immediate family. Interesting, as I adored Spain. I’d been twice, captivated by its beauty. A popular city in Spain known as Mijas is a tourist town that possesses traditional status with a major tourist complex located in the coastal enclave of La Cala with beautiful beaches. Make sure to send me pictures please, I said to Ryan.

Ryan kept his promise, sending me photos and videos of his Spanish adventure. They were exquisite, and our communication intensified. One splendid morning, I awoke to the melodious chirping of a bird outside my window, my heart brimming with joy. Then, my phone chimed with a video call from Ryan. Panic surged – I’d just woken up, was I prepared for this? He called again, and this time, I answered.

‘Hello, beautiful,’ Ryan greeted me. My heart raced – did he just call me beautiful? Was I still dreaming?”

TO BE CONTINUED