A Spark Before Dawn
The dense morning fog was just beginning to lift as Segun awoke to the sounds of birds singing their morning songs. He stretched and wiped the sleep from his eyes, looking forward to a productive day in his fields. After a quick breakfast of yam and egusi soup, he gathered his tools—a large hoe, basket, and jug of water—and set off down the winding path leading from the village outskirts.  

As he walked, Segun greeted the few early risers already tending to their farms or heading to the market with goods to sell. Though smiles greeted him in return, he caught snippets of hushed conversations questioning his single status once more. At thirty seasons, he was among the last in the village still unwed. But Segun had made his choice years ago after seeing too many friends' marriages crumble under financial pressures, leaving children without guidance or food. He would not risk that for any woman, no matter the village elders' prodding.  

Reaching his fields, Segun set to work clearing weeds and preparing the soil for planting. The repetitive tasks soothed his mind as usual, letting thoughts drift. He reflected on simpler times as a boy helping his parents here, before illness took them both within a season of each other. Their farm had kept their family fed for years, and Segun was determined to do the same—without the added stresses marriage often brought.

After a while, the unmistakable sounds of a crowd brewing carried on the breeze. Curious, Segun gathered his tools and headed towards the village center. There, he found most of the able folks congregated in the market exchanging lively gossip. At the center was Jumoke, his friend since childhood, passionately recounting the latest wedding drama that had the crowd rapt.

Catching Segun's eye, Jumoke winked and waved him over. "My friend, come ease an old woman's worries. I see you toiling alone in your fields each day and fear what will become of you without a good wife at your side," she said, patting his arm.

Segun sighed. "Must we have this discussion again, Jumoke? I am content as I am."

"But it is not right for a strong man like you to be alone. Marriage would alleviate so many burdens."

Before Segun could respond, a confident voice broke in. "Perhaps marriage is not the only path, or best for all. What of those who find purpose outside of it?"

The group parted to reveal the speaker - Yetunde, daughter of the late medicine woman. Though barely past her twenties, she had inherited her mother's intellect and daring spirit, regularly voicing opinions that turned heads.

Segun found himself captivated anew by her simple yet deeply thoughtful perspective, so unlike the village norm. Perhaps there was more than one way to live and love after all. For now, his fields called, and the future was yet unwritten.