The thought of someone recognising them hunted the group as they drove steadily to the Anozie residence.
In the car, Chibuzor fidgeted endlessly. His palms were sweaty, and he couldn't seem to sit still. "Adanna," he asked for the fifth time, "are you sure everything's in order?"
Adanna smiled, patting his arm reassuringly. "Relax, brother. We have a foolproof plan. By the end of today, we'll be bringing your wife home."
Her confidence startled Chibuzor. For the first time, he realized he was genuinely nervous. 'What's wrong with me these days?'
The family arrived at the Anozie residence, their entourage consisting of grandparents, parents, stepmother, siblings, uncles, aunts and Olisa. The Anozies and Nnenna who took the role of Olaedo's bride's maid, welcomed them politely but guardedly, the memory of the previous week's incident still fresh in their minds.
Ndidi, Chibuzor's stepmother, wasn't having it. "Who are they to welcome us half heartedly?" she muttered angrily. "They should be grateful that an aristocratic family like ours even wants to marry their daughter, a girl who didn't even finish her schooling."
Her sharp words carried, reaching Mrs. Anozie's ears. The older woman frowned deeply. 'Is this woman really my daughter's mother in law? What kind of life will Olaedo have in a family like this?'
Sensing the tension, Chukwudubem quickly interjected, addressing Mrs. Anozie. "She's not our mother, ma. She's a stepmother, and we would never let her bully our sister in law."
Mrs. Anozie's gaze softened slightly. 'This family is complicated, but at least most of them seem to care about my daughter.'
The ceremony began promptly at 4 p.m., with Olaedo's closest uncle representing her dead father. He formally accepted the greetings and gifts before giving her hand in marriage to Chibuzor.
The process was smooth, and after a bit of dancing and refreshments, the Anozie family's earlier reservations began to ease. By the end of the evening, their view of Chibuzor had softened a bit.
As night fell, the family departed with Olaedo. During the ride home in the family car, the introductions began.
Chukwudubem spoke first, flashing Olaedo a kind smile. "Sister in law, I'm Chibuzor's younger brother, Chukwudubem. If you ever need anything when my brother isn't around or makes you upset, just let me know. Even though I live abroad, I'll catch the first flight back if you need me."
Adanna chimed in next, her enthusiasm a little out of character. "I've always wanted my big brother to marry someone kind to him, and you're perfect! Welcome to the family, sister in law. I live nearby, so don't hesitate to call me if you need anything."
Olaedo smiled shyly, her heart warming at their genuine kindness. This is just a contract marriage, but it wouldn't hurt to have additional friends in the form of in laws.
Ifeoma, however, wasn't as accommodating. She crossed her arms, her tone sharp. "Olaedo, you married my brother after being betrayed by your ex fiancé, right? The news was everywhere. Honestly, I thought you were pretty stupid for that. Just so you know, I won't acknowledge you as family until I'm sure you're not just using my brother as an escape plan."
Chibuzor's stepmother, Ndidi, nodded approvingly at Ifeoma's harsh words. She was content to let someone else voice her thoughts while she quietly plotted to undermine the marriage in her own way. The fewer heirs these two have, the better.
The atmosphere tensed, but before Adanna could intervene, Olaedo responded, her tone calm but firm. "You're Ifeoma, right? Great. First of all, I'm four years older than you, so you will address me with respect. Second, my marriage to your brother is none of your concern. As your sister in law, it's my responsibility to guide and groom you, so it's time for you to grow up."
Her words stunned everyone into silence. Even Old Master, who had been about to speak, nodded approvingly instead. She knows her place and defends it well. This girl is no pushover.
While most of the younger generation looked on in admiration, Ifeoma's face turned red with anger. "Who do you think you are? Just because you married my brother, you think you can act high and mighty?! Chibuzor, are you seriously letting her talk to me like this?"
Chibuzor's glare silenced her. "Ifeoma, behave yourself. Olaedo is my wife, and if you hadn't disrespected her, she wouldn't have spoken to you that way. Your allowance for this month is canceled. Reflect on your behavior."
Ifeoma's jaw dropped. "What?! No! The family ball is next week! I need that allowance to prepare!"
Chibuzor ignored her, his mind elsewhere. He was far more concerned with the fact that Olaedo had ignored his calls and texts for an entire week. We're definitely going to talk about this later.
They arrived at the Arinze mansion for a small celebration in honor of Olaedo's welcome. The atmosphere was lively, filled with smiles from everyone except Ndidi and Ifeoma.
For years, the family had encouraged, persuaded, and even begged Chibuzor to find someone he liked, yet he had remained unmoved. Now, to their relief and delight, he was married!
And not just to anyone. Olaedo was a woman who knew her worth, carried herself with grace, and had made her mark in life despite her lack of a university degree. As a Christian family, they refrained from serving alcoholic drinks, but the cheerful spirit filled the room like fine wine.
By midnight, Chibuzor rose, intending to take his wife home, but his announcement drew immediate protests.
Old Madam frowned deeply, cutting him off. "We just met our granddaughter in law today, and you already want to whisk her away? No! Let her stay until after the family ball next week."
Her words triggered a chorus of agreement. Adanna's voice rang out distinctively. "Brother, this is a great chance for us to bond with her, especially those of us who do not live here. You owe us this!"