As Nia agreed to meet my parents, I felt a mix of emotions: excitement, nervousness, and a hint of trepidation. I knew my parents' traditional views might clash with Nia's African heritage.
The day of the meeting arrived, and I picked Nia up from her apartment. She looked stunning in a elegant Yoruba attire, her hair styled beautifully. I couldn't help but feel proud to call her mine.
On the way to my parents' house, Nia's hands trembled slightly. I took them in mine, offering reassurance. "We'll face this together."
Upon arrival, my mother greeted us with a formal bow. My father's expression was stern, his eyes narrowing as he took in Nia's appearance.
"Mother, Father, this is Nia," I said, my voice steady.
My mother's smile seemed forced. "Welcome, Nia. Please, sit."
The conversation began awkwardly, with small talk about the weather and Nia's studies. But as we delved deeper, tensions rose.
"Nia, where are you from?" my father asked, his tone hinting at disapproval.
"Nigeria," she replied, her head held high.
My mother's eyes widened. "Africa?"
"Yes," Nia said, a hint of pride in her voice. "Lagos, specifically."
The room fell silent. I sensed my parents' unspoken concerns.
"Nia and I plan to marry after graduation," I announced, trying to gauge their reaction.
My father's face darkened. "Yamato, have you considered—"
"I've considered everything, Father," I interrupted, my voice firm. "Nia is the love of my life. Her culture, her beauty, make me whole."
My mother's expression softened slightly, but my father's disapproval remained.
"We'll discuss this later, Yamato," he said, his tone dismissive.
As we left, Nia's hand found mine. "It's okay, Yamato. We knew it wouldn't be easy."
I pulled her close. "We'll overcome this, together."
But doubts lingered. Would my parents ever accept Nia? And what would happen if they didn't?
Nia's eyes sparkled with determination. "We'll overcome this, together. Your parents will see how much we love each other."
I smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude. "You're my rock, Nia."
We walked hand-in-hand, Tokyo's neon lights illuminating our path. I knew I had to make things right.
The next day, I visited my parents alone. "Father, Mother, I understand your concerns, but Nia makes me happy. She's the one I want to spend my life with."
My father's expression remained stern. "Yamato, you're jeopardizing our family's reputation. Marrying a foreigner, especially an African, will bring shame."
I stood firm. "Nia is not 'shame,' Father. She's the love of my life. And I won't abandon her."
My mother's voice softened. "Yamato, we just want what's best for you."
"I know, Mother. But what's best for me is Nia. Please, try to understand."
Their faces showed a glimmer of doubt, and I sensed a crack in their resistance.
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