Chapter 4 A Bond Beyond Words

As weeks went by, I found myself looking forward to Sundays more than I should have. Not just because I wanted to hear Pastor Daniel preach (though that was definitely part of it), but because of the small, casual chats we started to have after service.

Sometimes, they were just brief exchanges-like when he asked about Zara and how I was doing. Other times, he'd share a funny story about his week or mention how much he loved the choir's performance. But it was always easy. Natural. And every time, I felt like he saw me-not just the tired young mum-but the woman behind the title.

One Sunday, I stayed a little longer after service, hoping to chat with him. And this time, he noticed.

"Tolu," he called, walking toward me after finishing his conversation with another church member. "How are you today?"

It was a simple question, but this time, it felt different. His voice was softer, and his smile was warmer than usual. I couldn't help it. I found myself sharing more with him than I'd ever shared with anyone-especially a man I'd only known for a few weeks.

"I'm... getting by," I said, shifting Zara's weight again. "It's been tough, but I'm okay."

He nodded thoughtfully, then said something that I never expected. "If you ever need someone to talk to... not as a pastor, but just as a person, I'm here."

It was the way he said it-sincere and unassuming-that made my heart skip. There was no pressure, no expectations. Just a simple offer from a man who truly seemed to care.

At that moment, I knew I wasn't imagining things. He wasn't just being kind. He was seeing me.

The way he looked at me made me feel more than just a mum or a church member. I felt important. And that scared me.