In-Laws Visit

At the Fernandez residence in the exclusive Banana Island neighborhood, the evening was serene, the air filled with the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant hum of the ocean. The sprawling estate, with its manicured lawns and majestic architecture, stood as a testament to the power and tradition of the Fernandez family. At precisely 7 PM, the tranquility was interrupted by the arrival of a sleek Toyota Landcruiser Prado, its headlights cutting through the dusk as it approached the grand entrance.

The vehicle rolled to a stop before the ornate iron gates, and a quick, polite honk summoned the attention of the security guard. He recognized the car immediately—the Pedro family, longtime friends and now, soon-to-be in-laws. The guard, already briefed on the evening's significance, hurried to open the gates, allowing the Prado to glide up the long driveway toward the imposing mansion.

Inside the house, Babatunde, the vigilant house manager, kept a watchful eye on the time. He had been meticulously preparing for this evening, ensuring that every detail was perfect. As the Pedros' vehicle came into view, he made his way to the living room, where Lady Yewande Fernandez, or Yeye as she was affectionately known, sat with her husband, Adekunle Fernandez.

"The Pedro family has arrived, ma'am," Babatunde announced with a slight bow, his voice steady and respectful.

Yeye, a woman of regal bearing and natural grace, rose swiftly, her vibrant traditional attire flowing elegantly around her. Her face lit up with a genuine smile, a reflection of the warmth she felt for her guests. "Thank you, Babatunde," she said, her voice filled with anticipation. She turned to her husband, a quiet nod passing between them before she made her way to the entrance.

As the Pedro family stepped out of the Prado, Yeye moved forward to greet them, her smile bright and welcoming. "My in-laws, you are most welcome!" she exclaimed, opening her arms to embrace each of them.

Steven Pedro, the patriarch, was the first to step forward. His dignified presence matched the elegance of the occasion. Beside him, his wife, Emily Pedro, exuded quiet grace, her eyes reflecting the same warmth as her husband's. Their son, Joseph Pedro, followed with an easy confidence, while Folashade Pedro, bringing up the rear, maintained a composed but slightly apprehensive expression.

Folashade's heart fluttered as she took in the grandeur of the mansion—a place that would soon become her home. The weight of the evening's significance hung heavily on her, but she pushed down her nerves, determined to make a good impression. As Yeye hugged her warmly, Folashade couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. This was the beginning of the life she had always dreamed of, despite the uncertainty that still lingered in her mind.

Behind Yeye, Adekunle Fernandez stepped forward, his tall, commanding presence impossible to ignore. His nod of welcome was less effusive than his wife's embrace, but the respect in his eyes was unmistakable. "Steven, Emily, Joseph, Folashade," he greeted them with a firm handshake, his voice steady and composed. "It's good to have you here."

"Thank you, Yeye. Adekunle," Steven replied, his tone warm yet formal. The two men exchanged a knowing look, the weight of their shared history evident in their eyes. As the families exchanged pleasantries, Babatunde discreetly guided them inside.

The entrance hall of the mansion was a masterpiece of design, with soaring ceilings, gleaming marble floors, and the soft glow of crystal chandeliers casting a warm light over the room. The scent of fresh flowers filled the air, adding a touch of nature's beauty to the refined elegance of the space.

Folashade glanced around, trying to absorb every detail. But even as she marveled at the luxury surrounding her, a pang of anxiety tugged at her heart. Magnus had yet to make his appearance. She knew he was here—he had to be. But the thought of him, somewhere in this vast house, unseen and silent, made her stomach twist with unease.

**What is he thinking right now?** Folashade wondered. **Does he feel the same weight of this evening as I do? Or is he just going through the motions, bound by duty and family expectations?**

Her thoughts were interrupted by Yeye's voice, warm and hospitable. "Let's sit down and enjoy some refreshments before we talk more," she said, gesturing to Babatunde. "Please, see that our guests are comfortable."

Babatunde led the Pedros into the formal sitting room, where plush sofas and armchairs were arranged around a gleaming coffee table, set with an array of delicacies and drinks. The room exuded an air of comfort and refinement, designed to put guests at ease.

Folashade took a seat beside her mother, her posture straight and poised. But inside, her nerves were frayed, her thoughts swirling around the man she was about to marry. She glanced at the empty seat across from her—the seat that was meant for Magnus. **Where is he?** she wondered, her excitement now tinged with worry.

But as the conversation flowed around her, Folashade pushed those thoughts aside. She had waited for this moment for so long, had dreamed of becoming Mrs. Fernandez even before the marriage was arranged. Despite Magnus's coldness, she had never stopped loving him, and now, she was finally on the brink of making that dream a reality.