“I can’t believe this is real,” he said.
Chidinma smiled proudly. “It’s real.”
But the happiness came with a painful reality.
Soon Oena would have to leave.
The night before his departure was quiet. They sat together on the small balcony outside their apartment. The city lights of Lagos flickered in the distance. Neither of them spoke for a long time.
Finally, Oena broke the silence.
“I wish you were coming with me.”
Chidinma smiled softly. “One day I will. But not now. Not yet.”
He looked at her seriously. “As soon as I settle down, I’ll bring you to America.”
“I know.”
“I promise.”
She nodded. “I believe you.”
But deep inside, both of them knew the distance would not be easy.
The airport was crowded. The next morning, families hugged each other tightly. Children cried. Travelers rushed toward departure gates. Chidinma walked beside Oena quietly, holding his hand tightly.
When they reached the airline counter, the reality of the moment finally hit them.
This was really happening.
Oena checked in his luggage. Soon it was time for passengers to proceed toward the departure gate. Chidinma’s chest tightened.
They stood facing each other.
“So this is it?” Oena said softly.
“Yes.”
He looked into her eyes. “I don’t know how to thank you.”
“You don’t have to.”
“I do.”
“You already did.”
“How?”
“By believing in us.”
Oena pulled her into a tight embrace. For several seconds, they held each other without speaking.
“I’ll call you every day,” he whispered.
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