Chapter 35: A Sister's Stand
Monica was 25 now—grown, wise, and strong. The years had shaped her into a woman of deep understanding. She had watched from a distance as her younger siblings were scattered—some taken in by relatives, others raised by hands that never truly loved them.
But when she heard that Mary was still living with their aunt, despite all the pain she had endured, Monica made a decision.
The tradition was clear: When a mother dies, it is the responsibility of her sister to raise the younger girls until they reach the age of 18. But there was a provision many people ignored—if the eldest sibling is mature and capable, they have the right to bring their younger siblings back home.
And Monica was more than capable now.
She had a job, her own room in their father's house, and above all, she had love for Mary. The kind of love that doesn't ask for permission.
So she approached her father and said, "I want Mary back. She's suffered long enough."
He looked at her, uncertain. "You know the tradition."
"I do," Monica said. "But I also know our tradition allows this. I am her elder sister. I live in our father's house. I can take care of her. And I will."
It wasn't a negotiation. It was a stand.
With his recent retirement and desire to rebuild the family, her father agreed.
Monica went herself to the aunt's compound. She didn't come with shouting or insults. She came with quiet authority.
"She's coming with me," she said. "She belongs with her family now."
The aunt, surprised and stiff, tried to argue. But the community knew the tradition. Monica had the right. And more than that—she had the strength of love behind her.
Mary stood silently, heart pounding. When Monica held her hand and said, "Let's go," she felt something she hadn't in years.
Safe. Chosen. Seen.
As they walked away together, Mary didn't look back.
Because for the first time in a long time…
She was going home.