The Marriage That Began As a Secret

I never imagined that one parent-teacher meeting would change my life forever.

My name is Grace Naliaka, a primary school teacher. I loved teaching more than anything. Seeing my pupils excel gave me joy that money couldn't buy.

Unfortunately, joy didn't pay bills.

At the end of every month, my salary disappeared before it even reached my account. Rent, my mother's medication, transport, and helping my younger brother through college left me with almost nothing.

Still, I never complained.

One Monday morning, our headteacher called me into his office.

"Grace, one of our pupils has been absent for two weeks. His guardian has requested a home visit. Since you're his class teacher, you'll go this afternoon."

I nodded and collected the address.

When school ended, I boarded a...