Sarah informed her husband immediately, and he was genuinely happy.
"This calls for celebration. I'm proud of you," Bolaji said with a wide smile.
Her parents were overjoyed, and for the first time in a long while, Sarah felt truly proud of herself.
When the admission list was released, her name appeared under Pharmacy. Sarah screamed with joy, rushing to show her parents.
"Mummy! Daddy! I got it! I got Pharmacy!"
Her parents hugged her tightly. Even Bolaji, when she told him over the phone, shouted so loudly that Sarah laughed.
"Ah, Sarah, you don't know how happy I am! This is the beginning of great things. I'm really proud of you."
Her parents started preparing for the admission process. They insisted they would handle all the expenses — from acceptance fee to accommodation.
But when Bolaji heard of their plans, he frowned.
"Sarah, please don't argue with me on this. I know your parents want to do their best, but let me take care of these things. It's my responsibility, and I want to do it."
Sarah sighed. "Bolaji, you've already done too much for us. You've carried this family in ways no one else could. Please let them handle it this time."
But Bolaji shook his head firmly. "No, Sarah. I've made mistakes before, but not this time. Allow me to support your education. It gives me joy."
Sarah was quiet for a moment. She looked at him, her eyes soft. "Thank you, Bolaji. I don't even know how to repay you. I just pray God blesses you for me."
Her parents also tried to insist, but Bolaji didn't listen. He personally went with Sarah to the school for her registration, paid her fees, and even helped her secure a good accommodation close to campus. Even though the school was not really far from his own place, he decided not to force her but to respect her wishes.
On the day they went to finalize everything, Sarah looked around the neat hostel room that would be hers for the next few years. She turned to Bolaji, her heart swelling with gratitude.
"Bolaji," she said softly, "I mean it… thank you for believing in me. I promise I won't disappoint you."
Bolaji smiled faintly. "Just focus on your studies, Sarah. That's all I want."
As he helped her arrange the few things they brought into the room, Sarah watched him quietly. She couldn't deny it — his actions were slowly proving that he had changed.
For the first time, she began to wonder if maybe… just maybe… their story was not yet over.
The first semester was hectic. The lectures were long and stressful, the practicals were draining, and the pressure was much more than she had imagined. Sarah met different kinds of people — some studious, some playful, and some carefree. She learned new things about life and about herself. Despite the challenges, she felt happy that she finally had this opportunity to experience it all.
During the short holiday that followed, Sarah couldn't go home since it was only for a few weeks. She remained in school, and Bolaji often came to visit her. They communicated more freely, sharing details of their days. Slowly, Sarah began to feel lighter — freer to express herself with him.
By the second semester, another challenge came. Sarah started getting many proposals. Some men openly declared their interest, others tried to entice her with gifts and promises. Even though she wore a ring, many still came after her. At first, she laughed it off, but as the attention grew, she became tired and frustrated. She made it a habit to leave the hostel immediately after lectures to avoid unnecessary distractions.
Despite it all, she remained focused. Bolaji's occasional visits to her hostel surprised her friends, who noticed how caring and supportive he had become. Deep down, Sarah knew he was trying to prove himself, and she couldn't help but respect his effort.
When the semester finally ended, it was time for a long holiday. Sarah smiled to herself; she had already planned how she wanted to spend it.
That day, Bolaji drove home, exhausted from work. His security guard greeted him warmly, all smiles, but Bolaji barely paid attention. He was too tired and just wanted to rest. He climbed the stairs slowly and opened the door to his house.
The aroma of food welcomed him immediately.
Bolaji froze. His heart missed a beat.
He recognized it.
The smell was too familiar — the aroma of her food.
How could he not know?
Tears stung his eyes as a smile broke across his face.
"Oh… my honey bunny is home."