From that day on, Obinna couldn't stop thinking about Oluchi. There was something about her that captivated him—her quiet strength, her grace, and the sadness in her eyes. He began visiting the forest regularly, hoping to see her again.
Oluchi, however, was hesitant. She couldn't understand why the prince was interested in her. Was he mocking her like everyone else? When he approached her one afternoon, she tried to leave, but his gentle voice stopped her.
"Oluchi, please wait," he said. "Why do you keep running from me?"
"I'm not like the other maidens," she said, avoiding his gaze.
"That's why I want to know you," he replied. "You are different, and that makes you special."
His words stirred something deep within her, but years of rejection had made her cautious. "You don't understand," she said. "People call me names. They say I'm cursed."
The prince frowned. "You are not cursed, Oluchi. You are a blessing—a rare and beautiful gift."
Over time, Obinna's persistence began to chip away at Oluchi's defenses. He would sit with her beneath the baobab tree, sharing stories of his travels and dreams for the kingdom. Slowly, she began to see herself through his eyes—not as a curse, but as someone unique and worthy.
The villagers, however, were not pleased. Rumors spread about the prince's fascination with the "giant girl." Some mocked him, while others expressed concern. "What does he see in her?" they wondered.
Despite the growing criticism, Obinna remained steadfast. He was determined to show Oluchi that she was not ugly but beautiful and also deserves love and respect.
Obinna's mother heard from a friend about the closeness between her son and a strange looking maiden but she never believed. She thought it was just a rumor.
The day had finally arrived when Prince Obinna was expected to choose a bride. It was a day of grandeur in the kingdom of Umuoma, and the royal family spared no expense in organizing a grand event. The palace courtyard was decorated with flowers, banners, and ornaments that shimmered in the sunlight. Musicians played upbeat tunes, and villagers gathered, eager to witness the prince's choice.