The dragon beside me

A tale of vows made in the shadow of disbelief and trust built in the furnace of doubt gave rise to an unlikely love story in the busy town of Kakuma, where the dusty streets whispered tales of hope and survival.

It all started in the brightness of computer displays and the murmur of distance conversations at the Ngikonei Cyber Cafe. A modest young Muslim girl named Arafah Akuwom Akuuta came into my life and asked for help with her KRA PIN. I had no idea that this random meeting would spark the flames of love in my heart.

Like a soft stream meandering across the desert, our discussion flowed easily as we sat side by side and navigated the bureaucratic web of online forms. Arafah warned me not to fall too deeply, admitting that she was afraid of heartbreak and wasted time. But I promised to support her through every struggle and victory because I was so taken by her elegance and wisdom.

Weeks passed, and our relationship grew strong despite life's hardships, much like a desert rose. After some hesitation and internal struggle, Arafah gave in to the magnetic pull of our relationship.

Arafah said the words I had been waiting to hear, that fateful evening as the sun set. She asked to see where I lived, hope shining in her eyes and concern in her voice. I escorted her to my small home via the winding lanes with a joyful heart.

Along the way, we shared laughter and stories, sipping on energy drinks to fuel our journey. .In a quiet moment, I confessed to Arafah my humble roots, but assured her of the richness within—a heart filled with kindness Arafah met my family as we got closer to my house, her presence dazzling the rest of us. She belonged in my heart and in the arms of my loved ones, I realised in that moment.

Our love became stronger as evening went on, and we had a passionate kiss under the starry sky. But in the middle of the desire and want, Arafah made a serious request: we couldn't have sex until we'd both had HIV tests.In her proposal for an HIV test, I realized her commitment, cementing the truth: she's mine, through thick and thin.

The next day, we stepped out into the open and trusted each other, waiting for the outcome while standing hand in hand. We felt relief like a refreshing breeze on a hot day when the nurse informed us of our health. Because we were both well, we could freely explore the limits of our love without any reluctance or fear.

Our love blossomed in the days that followed like a desert oasis, a place of calm and peace amid an unstable globe. Arafah turned became my companion and lifelong partner, her presence a lighthouse in the depths of darkness.

And so, my dear reader, our story begins—a tale of two souls travelling through life's ups and downs together, bonded by the unbreakable bond of love. Not only is Arafah Akuwom Akuuta my first love, but she is also my heart, my life, my everything. And I am hers, hers forever and ever.