Mami Adawoa lowered her head. For the first time, the pride that had defined her seemed to disappear. When she finally spoke, her voice was quieter than anyone had ever heard it.
“Yes,” she said, “I gave birth to a baby boy many years ago.”
A heavy silence followed.
“I was young,” she continued. “I was not ready. I made a decision, a terrible one.”
Afia closed her eyes briefly, unable to hold back her emotions.
“I left the child behind,” Mami Adawoa admitted, “and I never returned.”
Boma’s jaw tightened, but he said nothing.
Uncle Nimoh nodded slowly. “And after that?”
Mami Adawoa hesitated, then continued. “After that, I could not have another child.”
The crowd shifted again, reacting to the confession.
Afia opened her eyes and looked directly at her. “Then who am I to you?” she asked, her voice trembling.
Mami Adawoa looked at her daughter, her expression filled with regret. “You were adopted,” she said.
The words landed heavily.
Afia staggered slightly, her hand covering her mouth. “Adopted?”
