I Rejected the Richest Guy in Church—Here’s Why I Don’t Regret It: Episode 12

I Rejected the Richest Guy in Church—Here’s Why I Don’t Regret It: Episode 12

EPISODE 12: The Elders’ Summon

I barely slept that night. My mind kept replaying Elder Martins’ words over and over. “Meet me at the church office tomorrow morning.”

I had a feeling this wasn’t going to be a friendly conversation.

The Meeting

The next morning, I arrived at the church office promptly. The secretary gave me a sympathetic look before ushering me in.

Inside, Elder Martins sat with three other elders—Elder Agbo, Elder Timothy, and Elder Grace. They all had serious expressions on their faces.

“Good morning, Elders,” I greeted, keeping my voice calm.

“Sit down, Chinaza,” Elder Martins said.

I sat, my heart pounding.

Elder Agbo adjusted his glasses. “We have been hearing some disturbing reports about you, Sister Chinaza. Some members are worried about your spiritual state.”

I let out a small laugh. “My spiritual state? Because I said no to a marriage proposal?”

Elder Timothy frowned. “It’s not just about that. There are rumors that you rejected Brother Charles because you are involved with someone else—someone outside the faith.”

I exhaled sharply. “That’s a lie and you all know it.”

Elder Grace leaned forward. “Chinaza, you have always been an example to the young sisters in church. But this decision of yours is raising questions. Why would you reject a godly man like Charles?”

I met her gaze. “Because God did not tell me to marry him.”

The room fell silent. The elders exchanged glances.

Elder Martins sighed. “We are not here to force you, Chinaza. But understand that your decision affects more than just you. You are setting a precedent in this church. Others may start refusing good suitors based on their personal feelings instead of God’s will.”

I shook my head. “With all due respect, Elder Martins, how do you know God’s will for me?”

Elder Agbo frowned. “So you mean to say the entire church is wrong, but you alone are right?”

I took a deep breath. “I mean to say that God speaks to individuals. And He has spoken to me. I will not marry Charles, and I will not be bullied into it.”

Elder Grace sighed. “Very well. But be prepared, Chinaza. This situation is already getting out of hand. And soon, you may find yourself on the outside.”

I swallowed, understanding what she meant. They were already isolating me. Soon, I might lose everything I had built in this church.

But I had made my choice. And I wasn’t turning back.

The Aftermath

As I walked out of the church office, my phone buzzed. It was Amaka.

I picked up. “Hello?”

“Naza, check the church youth WhatsApp group right now!” Amaka said, her voice urgent.

I quickly opened WhatsApp and scrolled to the church youth group. My eyes widened as I saw a new message from Charles.

It read:

“Good evening, beloved brethren. I’m excited to announce that God has blessed me with a beautiful, virtuous woman, and we will be having our introduction very soon. I will invite you all to celebrate with us as we walk in God’s will. More details coming soon. God bless you!”

I stared at the message in shock. My heart pounded in my chest.

Charles was getting married?

To be continued…