Moments later, Mandume stood outside his grandmother's room, heart thumping as he knocked lightly.
"Come in," Christine called.
He stepped inside, closing the door behind him as instructed.
"Grandma, you said you wanted to talk. Is everything alright?" he asked, already sensing this wasn't a casual visit.
Christine nodded gravely. "Sit down. This is important."
Mandume lowered himself into the chair across from her, his nerves prickling. "Wait—don't tell me... is this about marriage?"
"Bingo!" she said, her eyes twinkling. "You're smarter than you look."
Mandume stared, stunned. "What?!"
"Don't act like you don't know what marriage is," Christine said, barely hiding her amusement.
"Grandma, I'm only twenty-one!" he protested.
"All the more reason. You're a grown man."
He stood, backing away slowly. "This has to be a dream…"
She reached forward and pinched him.
"Ouch! Okay—definitely not dreaming."
Christine looked between them. "Let's talk about your marriage."
Mandume gaped, still processing.
Christine's tone turned serious. "After David disappeared, the CEO seat was left empty. The heir—you—was underage. But don't you remember? The lawyers said the heir would be crowned in five years... and only if he was married."
Mandume's eyes widened. "Oh my God. This is the fifth year."
"Exactly. That's why I came down—to ensure your coronation goes smoothly."
"I thought you came to find Dad…"
"That too," she said, voice softening. "But if I can't find him, I have to make sure no one ruins what's his—and now, yours."
She looked him squarely in the eye. "The court gave you time to grow up—and find a fiancée. Surely you have someone special?"
Mandume didn't hesitate. "Yeah. Star—my best friend."
Christine tilted her head. "Maria told me she's pregnant?"
Mandume nodded. "Yes. But the father ran off. Star was raped, Grandma."
Christine's expression crumbled. "Dear God… That poor girl. After everything—her parents, the pregnancy… it must be unbearable."
Mandume's voice was firm. "I'll be with her through it all."
Christine hesitated. "I see you care. But what if the 'father' reappears? Your mother won't accept this—marrying a pregnant girl."
"But you don't have a problem with it, right?"
She sighed. "No. But I don't want a scandal either. Our family's reputation…"
"My love isn't up for negotiation," Mandume said. "Forget the politics. When's the coronation?"
"This year," Christine replied. "The court will notify us three months ahead."
"And if I don't marry?" Mandume asked.
"The company goes to the government. We lose all claim. It's in the business charter... and your father's will. You got the house and cars without marriage, yes. But the company? You must marry."
He ran his hands through his hair. "Marriage means a life-changing commitment, Grandma. It's not just about taking over a company."
"You still have time to choose someone else. Please, Mandume—this company was David's legacy to you. He trusted you."
"Why not trust his wife instead?" Mandume asked sharply.
"He trusted her—as far as she trusts herself," Christine answered coolly.
"So the CEO contract expires this year?"
"Yes. I'll visit the company on Monday, check operations, and confirm everything."
Mandume stood. "So... I'm supposed to be a husband soon."
Christine softened. "Just make sure it's in the family's best interest. Avoid drama. You still have time."
He shook his head. "Star is the only option. We confessed our love last week. I'm not marrying for the company—I'm marrying for love. And it's already April. I can't just pick a random girl and propose. She'd think I'm crazy."
Christine's eyes narrowed. "How long have you and Star been together?"
"A year and three months."
"Then... she cheated on you," Christine said bluntly.
"What?" Mandume froze.
"She's pregnant by someone else, while dating you."
"No, no. We've only been in love officially for a week. Before that, we were just friends."
Christine folded her arms. "I'm not against your love—but make sure it's not a mistake. Don't get blinded. Think clearly."
Mandume's voice dropped, filled with resolve. "I already made my choice."
He left the room, shoulders stiff with frustration.
As he walked back to his room, he muttered, "Why is Grandma suddenly against me and Star? I thought she'd be on my side…"
Would you like me to help plot the next chapter—perhaps Christine makes a discreet phone call to someone after Mandume leaves? Or maybe Star has her own confrontation moment with Maria brewing?