The next day, her worst fear became real.
Patrick Mugisha, a powerful moneylender, sat in their compound. He looked at Winfred like she was something to be evaluated.
“She looks healthy enough,” he said.
Her aunt smiled coldly.
“You are getting married.”
Winfred’s chest tightened. “To who?”
Patrick answered calmly.
“Kato Biruhanga.”
The drunk.
Winfred shook her head. “No… please.”
But the decision was already made.
“You live here for free,” her aunt snapped. “It’s time you repay us.”
That evening, Winfred met Kato on the road.
He walked unsteadily, bottle in hand, just like everyone said. But when he spoke, his voice was calm.
“You are Winfred,” he said.
She nodded.
“They told you,” he added.
“Yes.”
Then she said what everyone thought.
“You are always drunk.”
Kato gave a faint smile.
“That’s what people believe.”
For a brief moment, his eyes looked sharp—nothing like a drunk’s.
“I don’t want this marriage,” she said.
“I know,” he replied.
“Then why did you agree?”
He paused, then said something strange.
“Because this marriage may save you.”
Winfred stood frozen as he walked away.
Save her… from what?
