The day had finally arrived.
Megyn stood before the mirror, her breath catching as she took in her reflection. The beautician who had arrived at six that morning had done a wonderful job.
The ivory gown hugged her figure perfectly, delicate lace trailing down in soft, intricate patterns. A subtle shimmer caught the light as she moved, making her look almost ethereal.
Behind her, Cindy adjusted the veil with a teasing smirk.
"A best friend you are - almost leaving your girl all alone." Cindy said, placing a hand on her chest.
"Don't worry, Cindy. I'll make sure you catch the bouquet," Megyn replied, smiling at her.
It was believed that before the reception is over, the bride throws the bouquet to the ladies and whoever catches it will be the next bride.
"Evans might just propose."Megyn added lightly.
Cindy chuckled, then her expression softened. "You look breathtaking, Meg."
Megyn met her best friend's gaze in the mirror. "You really think so?"
Cindy scoffed. "Benjamin is going to lose his mind when he sees you."
At the mention of his name, Megyn's face glowed, and her heart fluttered. She took a steadying breath. Today, she would become Mrs. Benjamin Moko Hawi.
Outside the compound, a loud knock echoed at the gate, followed by the sound of women singing:
"I'm beating my drum really hard. I started this in the morning. We've brought your song by aeroplane—because it's a different kind of song."
The gate remained closed.
From within the compound, the women on Megyn's side sang back:
"The beautiful flower is truly lovely."
Benjamin's women responded with joyful melodies:
"This is my song to you, beautiful. We have lit lamps to brighten your way. Megyn's beauty is incomparable— Her beauty is evident!"
The singing filled the air with energy and tradition.
Before the gate could be opened, Benjamin's side had to offer a token - money - to the women guarding it. After some cheerful back-and-forth and an exchange of cash, the gate was finally opened.
But that wasn't all.
The women from Megyn's side demanded fifty shawls, locally known as lessos.
"Our daughter, the princess, cannot walk on bare ground. She must step only on lessos as she leaves her mother's house, like a royalty that she is," one woman declared.
While the women negotiated, and the lessos were brought out and spread on the ground, the groom's party was welcomed into the compound and offered food.
Meanwhile, Megyn sat quietly in her room with her mother, Martha Maringo, and her aunt Nereah. She was moments away from being released to the groom's side.
"My daughter," Martha said softly, "you're now going to make a home in Mabonde County. Represent us well to the people of Mabonde. Strengthen our friendship."
"Mum, I'll do my best," Megyn replied, a bit bewildered by the weight of the responsibility being placed on her.
"But always remember," her mother added, her eyes misty, "we love you very much. Your place at home will always be intact."
It was an emotional moment for mother and daughter. Megyn tried hard not to cry, though her heart was overwhelmed. For a moment, doubt crept in. Was she really ready for this? She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.
Mrs. Maringo continued gently, "Megyn, this is your last chance to turn back if you feel you're not ready."
There was silence in the room. Mother, daughter, and aunt sat still, each lost in thought.
Megyn thought about Benjamin-their love, their dreams, and everything they'd built together. She smiled. She wanted to go all the way with him.
"Megyn," her mother called again, pulling her back to the moment.
"Yes, Mum?"
"We, the Orieko daughters - and those who came before us - we marry to build and develop homes. We don't run from our responsibilities as wives, and eventually, as mothers. Your aunt can attest to that. She's built a loving home where your cousins, Joy and Mercy, thrive. You can look at me, too - you enjoyed being raised in our home."
"Yes, Mum," Megyn said quietly.
"Now, we're sending you off," Aunt Nereah spoke up. "We're going to call your name three times. Do not respond. After the third call, walk down the stairs to the groom's men - without looking back."
Megyn nodded, wondering what sort of tradition this was—but she embraced it.
"Megyn... Megyn... Megyn," her mother called. Megyn didn't respond. "Now, go build your home with Benjamin."
Megyn stood up, almost in tears. Cindy was waiting for her at the corridor. Together, they descended the stairs to a chorus of singing and dancing:
"The good flower is pleasant. Listen to the buzz of bees—coming from afar To find the pleasant flower."
Megyn walked gracefully, her feet landing softly on the lessos spread out like a royal carpet, with Cindy closely behind her.
The groom's men led her to a car that had been prepared for her. She entered, joined by Cindy. Other vehicles had been arranged for family members - one for the parents and siblings, another for uncles and aunties, a van for the groomsmen and bridesmaids, and yet another for the extended relatives and friends who had come to celebrate this joyful day.
And with that, the drive to the church began.
Megyn and her entourage finally arrived at the church compound. The grounds were beautifully decorated with white and gold ribbons fluttering in the breeze, while the joyful sounds of matrimonial hymns echoed from within the church.
The church was already full, with guests already seated and the choir singing softly in the background, creating a sacred and festive atmosphere.
As the rest of the family and guests made their way inside, Megyn, the bridesmaids, and the groomsmen were ushered into the church's preparation room. There, they were met by the matron of honor, who also doubled as the wedding planner, and she immediately took charge.
She gave everyone their final instructions, ensuring that the bridal procession would enter in an orderly and graceful manner. The flower girls, Becky and Betty, were gently guided forward, each holding a basket of petals, their little white dresses swaying as they stepped into the spotlight.
Mex followed, carrying the wedding rings on a satin cushion with quiet pride. The bridesmaids and groomsmen soon bounced in, smiling and stylish, adding flair to the ceremony.
All eyes turned to Benjamin, who stood at the altar visibly anxious but deeply expectant. Cameras clicked nonstop as the bridal party took their places.
The eyes turned to the isle. The bride would come in any moment.