Page 23 of The Marriage Agreement (Agreement)

We left my childhood home after lots of laughs and chatter. Osei and Dele kept us all engaged. As soon as we got in the car, she’s quiet. I want her to keep talking. I should come up with something.

“So, you like cooking?”

“Yes, my mom was a chef. She trained in the UK. She made cooking look fun and easy.”

“And your dad?”

“He loves to eat everything, like Osei.” I chuckle, though I wish the topic didn’t always keep coming back to my brother, who already knows too much about her, and I know nothing. I hold it all in, just like I’ve been doing all day.

“Osei says we’re the best match for friendship since I like to cook, and he likes to eat.”

“I’m sure he likes that.” I need to change topics.

“What does your dad do?”

“He was an architect, but since the accident, he’s home now, and my mom takes care of him.” Her voice is low. I hear the sadness in it.

“Does he have a caregiver?”

“No, the money my brother and I send to them every paycheck is how they get by.”

“Is that why you work so many hours?”

“Yes.” Her voice is barely a whisper. She’s lacing and unlacing her fingers.

“Why didn’t your lawyer negotiate for you to get half of the two million upfront?”

“He suggested it, and I said no. I didn’t want any delays,” she answers, and I nod, but I’m upset. She’s carrying this much burden and won’t fight for herself or ask for help.

“You know, you can use the money in the joint account I set up for us.” I remind her of the account. A smile curves the side of her lips.

“Thanks for the offer. You’ve already helped me out a lot. I’m not paying rent or any bills. Just my tuition. I think that’s plenty. I can take extra classes next term and be done faster with my program. Once I’m done, I can head to the UK.” Now she’s going to take on more school load, so she can leave. A chuckle escapes me at her laid-out plans. Good thing I have plans too.

“Did I say something funny?” Her question is a challenge. I turn to her.

“No, it just amazes me how you have so many plans.”

“I don’t have the luxury of not having a plan. A plan keeps me focused, and it gives me something to work towards and not derail from my path.” I nod, even as I plan to derail some part of her plans, especially the part of her leaving. She just doesn’t know it.

“Have you registered for your next classes?” I ask, wanting to know more about this plan.

“Yes, I signed up for next semester yesterday.” I nod.

“I mean it. Spending the money in the joint account is fine with me.”

“Are you serious that I can take some of the money?”

“Yes. Do you need something?”

“My dad needs some meds; I will put the money back once I get paid.”

“You don’t have to put it back. It’s yours to spend as you wish.”

“I’ll feel better putting it back.” Is she serious? The look on her face tells me she’s serious.

“Do you know how rich I am?” I had to ask.

“No.” I can’t believe it, but everything about her wide eyes and tone tells me she’s telling the truth.

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