The Beautiful Bride - A Nigerian Story Part 2

Abari and his wife, Dura, were among those who were present at the palace. Dura was betrothed to him at the age of five and they were married when she was twenty years old. Their marriage was a success and they were the envy of neighbours. Dura was a beauty of her era. She had the right figure. She had a chocolate face, long black hair and her cheerfulness and modesty made her a winner anytime, anyday. Her white set of strong teeth brought glamour to her face which glittered like a diamond whenever she smiled.

The couple were married for several years without a child. In the seventh year of their marriage their prayers were answered and Dura became pregnant. The whole family rejoiced with them that they could have their own child at last. Friends and well-wishers congratulated them. They prepared for the new baby and bought dresses, toys and other gift items.

It was the rainy season and the time for Dura to deliver her baby was near. Rain fell continually for nine days without stopping. This disturbed a lot of activities. Dura remained at home and watched the baby's movement in her womb. Her husband stood by her. Early on the tenth day, there was torrential downpour again. At this time, she was in labour. The woman was delivered of her baby safely and members of the family thronged to welcome the much- awaited addition to the family. The baby was a girl and when compared with the mother, she was very much a 'chip off the old block'. Only a few elders were allowed into the room where the baby was born.

Because of the unending downpour, water dropped in trickles through the thatched-roof and water seeped in through the small window in their living room.

When the baby was being bathed by the eldest woman in the family according to their tradition, some rain water dropped on the baby and she cried. The cry was very melodious. It was like a song from an accomplished singer.

One of the first persons to present her with a gift was a stranger who ran inside their house for cover because of the heavy rain. The woman admired the baby and prophesied: "This child will be full of intelligence and mystique. She will be known throughout the neighbourhood. She will give succour and comfort to the needy," she concluded.

Abari and Dura were the happiest couple in the world. They had seen their baby and felt on top of the world. On ninth-day, the new baby was named Omide. She was one of the most beautiful human beings God had created. Her tiny eyes shone like a thousand stars. Her face was smooth and exciting. Her lips, nose, ears and other parts of her body were as if an artist, with the greatest skill in the world, worked on her body. The new baby was always smiling. Whenever she cried, those who were close to the mother enjoyed the sound.

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Everything about her was pleasant. Young girls struggled to carry her. Many would want her strapped to their backs. They liked to sing the lullaby to her and play with her.

Omide grew up fast. The older she grew, the prettier she became. Many men who saw her remembered the old tradition whereby young girls were betrothed. They wished they could have her, but that tradition had been abolished. Many old men wanted the ever-growing beauty for their sons. But those interested in Omide had to face her and compete fairly for her heart.

One day, Omide went to fetch water. Ajito who lived close to the stream had been watching her for quite a long time. On this day, he stood on the bank of the stream and focused his attention on her. As she balanced the water pot on her head the man talked with a gentle smile, 'whoever wins your heart deserves a trophy. You are second to none You are the most beautiful girl I have ever set my eyes on. I envy the lucky man who would marry you,' said Ajito.

Omide heard what he said but pretended that she did not hear him. She had become used to those who praised her for her great beauty. In spite of this, she was very modest and respectful. All these qualities, therefore endeared her to both young and old.