Tears of an Orphan
Episode 27
© Mary Francis Solomon
Back to the present…
Cynthia became speechless when Mr. Henry asked who had made her pregnant. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.
“Why are you not talking? Were you pregnant before you came to our house?” he asked, his voice firm but gentle, noticing her fear.
She shook her head quietly, a drop of tear rolling down her cheek.
“It’s okay… it’s okay. Don’t cry. But why didn’t you tell me?” he asked softly.
“I… I told Auntie about it,” Cynthia whispered.
Henry’s heart softened. She wasn’t wayward; she was just a victim. He took a deep breath and asked:
“Have you started antenatal?”
“Yes, I’ve started. Auntie enrolled me, and whenever it’s time for the sessions, we go together,” she explained quietly.
Henry smiled sadly to himself, touched by the thoughtfulness and planning behind it. So this woman has already planned everything… even registered Cynthia without informing me, he thought.
“Alright, it’s fine. So, what would you like to eat?” he asked kindly.
“Nothing, sir,” Cynthia replied, surprised at the sudden softness in his voice. Relief washed over her. She silently thanked God that he might not chase her away and remembered Mrs. Grace’s promise to stand by her.
“Hey… hey! Don’t tell me nothing. The nurse will soon bring your medication, and the doctor said you’ll spend the night here for close monitoring,” Henry added.
After speaking with Cynthia, Henry stepped out of the hospital to buy some fresh fruits. He diled his wife’s number. After the first ring, she picked the call:.
“My lover! My best and favorite man! Good afternoon! I missed your voice… oh, and sorry for not picking your call this morning. Today is Health Awareness Day, and I had to focus on giving my best to the people here,” Grace said, her voice bright and full of warmth.
Henry smiled, heart melting at her words.
“My one and only queen in my kingdom, it’s okay. How are you? When are you coming back? I’m already missing you,” he said softly.
“We’ll be back by God’s grace tomorrow morning. So… what will my love prepare for me?” she asked playfully.
“Nothing… oh, there isn’t much time since I have to be at work early. But I’ll make sure i get something for my baby.”
“okay love, I can’t wait ooo. But guess what?” Grace added excitedly.
“What is it?” he asked.
“I’ve been shortlisted for a transfer to Lagos! My hospital opened a new branch, and I’m among those chosen to start there,” she said, her excitement evident.
Henry laughed with joy, sharing in her happiness.
“Really? Babe! That’s amazing! I’m so happy!” he said, his voice full of joy.
“This is an answered prayer ooooo!”he exclaimed.
Grace overheard him instructing the fruit seller:
“…Yes, that’s the one. Give me two of those and three of these, please,” he said calmly.
“Babe! Are you buying fruits? Where are you? I thought there were a lot at home in the refrigerator!” she asked, a mixture of surprise and admiration in her tone.
“Yes, yes, I know, my love, but I’m not at home. Cynthia fainted earlier, and I wanted to get fresh fruits for her while heading to the hospital,” he explained.
Grace exhaled in relief, touched by his thoughtfulness.
“Oh… okay. You’re so caring, my love,” she whispered softly.
While collecting and paying for the fruits, he continued the phone call he had already started with Grace as he was walking back toward the hospital.
After the casual conversation, Henry gently steered the discussion toward a more serious matter:
“Grace… I need to ask… why didn’t you tell me that Cynthia is pregnant?” he said softly, no anger in his voice.
Grace’s chest tightened. She pressed the phone to her ear, voice trembling with apology:
“Love… I am so sorry. I know I should have told you sooner. I love Cynthia, and I didn’t want you to be upset or treat her harshly. I was just looking for the right moment… please forgive me. I never meant to hide anything from you,” she whispered, full of remorse.
Henry’s heart softened even more. One of the reasons he loved Grace so deeply was her humility and respect—even in difficult moments, she admitted her mistakes and sought reconciliation.
“I was upset at first because I didn’t understand why you didn’t tell me… but it’s okay. She’s just a child in need, and we’ll figure out the best way to help her,” he said warmly.
Grace exhaled in relief, feeling the warmth of his love and understanding through the phone.
“Thank you, my love… for understanding. I promise I’ll always be honest with you, no matter how hard it is,” she whispered softly.
Henry smiled, heart full, and said:
“I know, my queen. We’ll face everything together.”
Even through the distance of a phone call, their love and trust held them close, stronger than ever.
To be continued…
Inspired by the Great Teacher
Stay blessed till we meet in the next episode.
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Written by Mary Francis Solomon.