The Urban Hint — Home

She pays the bills, but he wants to lead. Something is not adding up.

I have worn many titles in my life. Daughter, sister, friend, survivor. But the one title I never imagined wearing was maid of honour to the woman marrying the man who broke me. My sister has my blood, my secrets, and my trust. She also has my ex fiancé, and in three weeks, she expects me to stand at that altar, hold her flowers, and pretend my heart is not still bleeding on the floor of their rehearsal dinner. I love her. But I am not sure I can survive loving her that much.

The story continues. Abike finally arrives in Lagos believing her life is about to change for the better. But the city welcomes her with noise, confusion, and a cousin who does not seem nearly as excited as she expected.

She led the choir for eleven years. She taught the teenagers, led the prayers, and sat on the front row every Sunday. Then she got pregnant three weeks before her wedding. Her pastor asked her to step down from everything. Now she sits at the back of the church, her white robe folded beside her, wondering if she will ever be allowed to serve again.

My husband paid a fortune for me. Now, he wants it back.

Some people leave home for better opportunities. Some leave for love. I left because I was tired of watching someone else shine. My name is Abike. And this is where my Lagos story begins.