Episode 1
In this village, there was a very powerful tradition. This tradition dictated that the eldest daughter should marry before the youngest, regardless of the circumstances.
Once upon a time, there lived a man named Obie, his wife Amara, and their two daughters, Betty and Becky. Becky, the younger of the two, was known for her hard work, beauty, humility, and respect, and she won the affection of everyone in the village. On the other hand, Betty, the eldest daughter, was the complete opposite: she was rude and arrogant, and often disrespectful to those older than her.
Mr. Obie and his family lived in a modest house in a quiet village. In this village, there was a very powerful tradition. This tradition dictated that the eldest daughter should marry before the youngest, regardless of the circumstances. Even if Becky found someone willing to marry her, she had to postpone her own happiness and wait for her older sister to marry first, even if it took years.
This tradition instilled fear in many villagers, as it had been maintained for decades, causing women to lose their chances of marriage and men to lose their potential wives. Becky, the youngest, was adored by her mother, Amara, while Betty, the eldest, was cherished by her father, Obie. Their bond was so strong that some began to suspect there was something more to their relationship.
Sometimes, Becky would ask her mother, Amara, “Mom, is Obie really my biological father? I don’t understand why he seems to love Betty more than me.”
Amara’s heart sank at her daughter’s question. “Oh, my dear daughter,” she reassured her, “your father loves you both very much. But I think he’s struggling with how approachable and friendly you are with people. You know your father likes to command, and he might expect his daughters to be like him. Unfortunately, you’re just like me, my dear. Don’t change for anyone, not even your father.”
Amara urged, seeing the concern in Becky’s eyes. “Being kind and friendly is a wonderful quality. It’s just that your father prefers a different approach.”
“But, Mom,” Becky insisted, “being kind shouldn’t matter. I don’t understand why Dad acts this way.”
Amara sighed, feeling the weight of Becky’s confusion. “Your father wasn’t always like this,” she admitted. “I don’t know what made him change.”
Becky listened, absorbing her mother’s words.
“Enough about your father,” Amara said with a playful smile, trying to lighten the mood. “My darling, I can’t wait for you to get married and give me six grandchildren!”
Becky’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Mom, are you serious?” she exclaimed. “Six children? In this tough economy? Two is enough for me!”
They both laughed, finding humor in the conversation despite its seriousness.
One sunny day, as Becky was heading to the market to buy food for her family, a handsome young man caught her eye. He walked past her, turned around, and smiled politely. Apologizing, he approached and introduced himself as Raymond, Chief Matthew’s son.
“I’ve seen other chief’s children, but I don’t think I know you,” Becky said.
Raymond smiled and explained, “That’s because I went to the city with my aunt when I was only 7 years old.” Understanding now, Becky nodded and commented, “Oh, I see. That’s why we haven’t met. So you’re the chief’s son they say lives in the city?”
“Yes, it’s me,” Raymond replied, smiling.
Becky joked, “So you’re all grown up now?”
Raymond laughed and replied, “Look who’s talking! It’s your older sister and me, age mates.”
They shared a laugh, and before going their separate ways, Raymond expressed his feelings for her, telling her how much he appreciated her and expressing his desire to be more than friends. They parted, promising to see each other again soon.
The next day, when Becky returned home alone from the farm, she was surprised to see Raymond waiting for her. They exchanged smiles as they greeted each other.
“Becky,” Raymond began, his voice full of sincerity, “I think I’ve fallen madly in love with you.” Becky was taken aback. “Isn’t it a bit soon for this? Well, we just met yesterday,” she replied.
Raymond shook his head gently. “I heard a lot about you while I was in town,” he explained. “My parents have spoken highly of you.” He continued, “I tried to find a wife in town, but I couldn’t find anyone who would win me over. They all wanted my money. That’s why my parents advised me to come to the village. They told me there was a girl here who possessed all the qualities I was looking for.”
My parents have said so many nice things about you: how humble, beautiful, and respectful you are. And when I saw you for the first time, I knew immediately they were right. I fell in love with you from the moment I saw you. Becky, please don’t say no. I just want to spend the rest of my life with you.
Raymond’s sincere words left Becky speechless for a moment. She looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and affection reflected there.
“Raymond, I’m flattered,” Becky finally replied with a
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