Pregnancy is supposed to be a joyful thing, but for Sarah it felt like a heavy burden.
Instead of happiness, she saw it as an obstacle standing between her and her dreams. It wasn't that she didn't want to have children — she did — but she believed the timing was wrong.
If only Bolaji had assured her that he would still send her to school, maybe she wouldn't have worried this much. After all, many women go to school even with pregnancy, and their husbands support them. But Sarah knew Bolaji might use this as the perfect excuse to bury her dreams.
She promised herself she wouldn't give up until Bolaji allowed her to go to school. She decided to be patient, to act gentle and kind towards him — maybe then he would listen to her.
When Sarah's parents heard about her pregnancy, they were overjoyed. Bolaji's parents too couldn't contain their excitement.
A Month Later
The JAMB form was finally out. By that time, Bolaji and Sarah had been living more peacefully. Ever since he found out she was pregnant, he had been more careful with his temper.
That evening, Sarah cooked his favorite meal. After serving him and watching him eat, she gently raised the topic.
Sarah: "I saw it online that JAMB form is out."
Bolaji: "So?"
Sarah: "I wanted to ask… when am I going to get mine?"
Bolaji laughed lightly and shook his head.
Bolaji: "You're still dreaming? My dear, forget that dream."
Sarah: "Please now… okay, I promise I won't disappoint you. I will make you proud. Shebi I'm already carrying your child."
Bolaji: "Darling, you don't need to stress yourself. This matter is sealed. It's my decision — you're not going to school. That's final."
Sarah decided not to push him further. Instead, she made up her mind to wake him up at midnight and beg again. She knew she couldn't confront him with stubbornness.
That night, she woke him gently, prayed for him, and then begged him to please consider her future.
But the moment he heard her true intentions, his temper rose.
Bolaji: "I thought you were beginning to get sense. I didn't know you woke me up for this nonsense. Well, I swear I won't change my mind. You're not going anywhere. If not for your condition, I know what I should have done to you right now."
He hissed, turned his back, and went back to sleep.
The following day, Sarah was moody and quiet, but she forced herself to endure. Maybe he would change his mind.
After a week of waiting in vain, she finally called her parents and explained everything. They were shocked, but promised to speak to him.
When they called, Bolaji sounded polite at first. After greetings, Sarah's father went straight to the point.
Sarah's Dad: "Bolaji, when will Sarah get her JAMB form?"
Bolaji: "She's pregnant. Writing exams and handling admission would be too hectic. When she gives birth, she can get JAMB next year."
Sarah's Dad: "But she said she can cope."
Bolaji: "She can't. And that's how I want it."
Sarah's Dad: "Hmm… okay."
Bolaji: "I want to do something, sir. I'll get back to you later."
They ended the call. Sarah's parents weren't pleased, but they had no choice. Later, they called their daughter and told her to be patient. "Your husband said he'll send you to school after you give birth," they said.
Sarah's heart grew heavy. Deep down, she feared Bolaji would never allow her to chase her dreams.
Three Days Later
At midnight, Sarah suddenly felt a sharp pain in her stomach. At first, she ignored it. But when it became unbearable, she screamed.
Her cry jolted Bolaji awake. He switched on the light — and what he saw frightened him.
To be continued…