Destiny
CHAPTER 1
Destiny
In the heart of Kenya’s fertile lands lies Eldoret, a land known not just for its sprawling fields but also for birthing the finest long-distance runners the world has ever seen. Among these runners, the Kalenjin tribe stands tall, their slender figures cutting through the air like arrows. It was in this land of speed and endurance that Mika, a son of Chebon, came of age.
Mika was raised in a small village near Kapsabet, where the rhythm of life followed the beat of ancient customs. As the only son of his father, Mika was raised in the traditions of the Nandi people, steeped in resilience and pride. It was amidst this backdrop that he found love with Kopla, a love that blossomed just before the world was plunged into the darkness of the First World War.
Like many young men of his time, Mika was called to arms, torn away from his young bride and infant child to fight alongside the British. The war, with its horrors and atrocities, left scars that ran deep, etched into the very fabric of Mika’s soul. And when peace finally came, and Mika returned home, it was to a different world—one where the echoes of war mingled with the whispers of change. He had lost an eye in the war. Luckily, he escaped with his life.
Settling in Eldama Ravine, Mika and Kopla sought to rebuild what the war had torn asunder. Together, they raised two more children, their love a beacon of hope amidst the tumult of post-war life. But tragedy struck when their eldest son, fueled by restlessness and discontent, disappeared into the night, leaving behind a void that could never be filled.
In search of a fresh start, Mika and his family made their way to Chepkongony, a land ripe for new beginnings. It was here that Isaac, Mika’s favored son, came to age, his towering frame and rugged charm making him a presence to be reckoned with. Yet amidst the vast fields and rolling plains, Isaac found himself drawn to the world of Luca, a white farmer from England whose roots ran deep in the Kenyan soil.
Luca, a man of wealth and influence, had made his home in Chepkongony, where he tended to his fields with the care of a shepherd watching over his flock. His farm, bounties of the land, stretched as far as the eye could see, a patchwork of green and gold beneath the African sun. And it was amidst this abundance that Isaac found himself drawn to Luca’s world like a moth to a flame.
It was a chance encounter that sealed their fate—a fleeting moment amidst the chaos of life, where paths crossed and destinies intertwined. Isaac, tending to his father’s cattle, stumbled upon Luca’s estate, his curiosity piqued by the sight of the white man and his family.
Isaac stood at the edge of the garden, watching the flurry of activity with keen interest. The estate was alive with workers, their movements a symphony of productivity. He had never seen such a well-organized operation, and the smell of fresh bread and roasting meat wafting from the kitchen made his stomach rumble.
Luca was a man of advanced age, his hair a striking silver that caught the sunlight, giving him an almost ethereal aura. Deep lines etched his weathered face, each wrinkle telling a story of hard work. His piercing blue eyes, though softened by years, still held a sharp, discerning gaze that missed nothing. Despite his age, Luca carried himself with a certain vigor, his tall frame still erect and imposing. His hands, though gnarled with age, were strong and capable, a sign of a lifetime of toil and dedication to the land. His presence commanded respect, a patriarch whose wisdom and experience were evident in every deliberate movement and thoughtful word. Luca’s demeanor was a blend of stern authority and genuine kindness, a man who valued hard work and loyalty above all. He was a figure who, despite the passage of years, remained a cornerstone of his estate, deeply connected to the land and the people who worked it.
“You there!” A voice called out, breaking his trance. Luca, with his commanding presence, strode over, wiping his hands on a cloth. “What brings you to my estate?”
Isaac straightened, meeting Luca’s gaze. “I was just passing by, sir. I tend to my father’s cattle nearby.”
Luca’s eyes narrowed slightly, then softened with a hint of curiosity. “Do you have any experience in the kitchen?”
Isaac hesitated, then nodded. “Yes, sir. My mother taught me to cook. I often help with meals at home.”
A smile tugged at the corners of Luca’s mouth. “Well, as it happens, we’re in need of an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. Our cook is getting on in years and could use some assistance. Would you be interested in the job?”
Isaac’s heart skipped a beat. “Yes, sir. I would be honored.”
“Good,” Luca said, clapping a hand on Isaac’s shoulder. “Come with me. Let’s see what you can do.”
Isaac followed Luca into the spacious kitchen, where the air was thick with the scents of spices and simmering stews. The cook, an elderly woman named Miriam, looked up from her work, her eyes bright with interest.
“Miriam, this is Isaac,” Luca introduced. “He’ll be helping you from now on.”
Miriam’s wrinkled face broke into a welcoming smile. “Welcome, Isaac. Let’s get you started.”
As Isaac settled into his new role, he quickly realized the magnitude of his responsibilities. He was not just cooking for Luca but for his entire family. Ruth, Luca’s wife, was a kind woman who often offered gentle advice and encouragement. Mumsup, their daughter, was a striking woman married to Mike, a jovial man with a hearty laugh. Their daughters, Danna and Danniela, were full of energy and curiosity, often peeking into the kitchen to see what new dishes Isaac was preparing.
One evening, as they were preparing the family’s dinner, Luca entered the kitchen, his presence filling the room. “How’s our new cook faring, Miriam?”
“He’s a quick learner,” Miriam replied with a proud smile. “He has a good instinct for flavors.”
Luca nodded, his gaze settling on Isaac. “Good to hear. Isaac, you’ve impressed us all. How are you finding the work?”
“I enjoy it, sir,” Isaac replied earnestly. “I’m learning a lot, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
Luca’s expression softened. “I’m glad to hear that. Keep up the good work. Tonight’s dinner is especially important. Mumsup and Mike are hosting a few guests, and we need everything to be perfect.”
“Yes, sir,” Isaac said, feeling the weight of responsibility.
As the evening progressed, Isaac worked diligently, ensuring every dish was prepared to perfection. He felt a sense of pride as he placed the final touches on the meal, knowing he was contributing to something meaningful.
Later that night, as the family gathered around the table, their laughter and conversation spilling into the kitchen, Miriam turned to Isaac with a smile. “You did well tonight, Isaac. The family is pleased, and so am I.”
“Thank you, Miriam,” Isaac replied, his heart swelling with pride. “I couldn’t have done it without your guidance.”
Isaac could hardly believe his luck as he followed Luca down the winding path that led away from the grand brick mansion. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the well-tended grounds of the estate. Luca walked with the steady gait of someone who knew every inch of the land, and Isaac trailed behind, his heart pounding with anticipation.
After a short walk, they arrived at a small wooden house nestled among the trees. It was modest, with an iron roof and a small porch, but to Isaac, it was a palace. The scent of fresh wood mingled with the earthy aroma of the surrounding foliage, creating a sense of home that he hadn’t felt in a long time.
“This will be your place, Isaac,” Luca said, turning to face him with a warm yet authoritative gaze. “It’s not much, but it’s close to the main house, and it’ll give you the privacy you need.”
Isaac stepped onto the porch, his fingers brushing against the smooth wood of the railing. “Thank you, sir. This is more than I could have hoped for.”
Luca nodded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. “You’ve earned it. You’ve shown dedication and a willingness to learn. This is a small token of my appreciation.”
As they walked inside, Isaac’s eyes widened. The interior, though simple, was cozy and well-kept. A small kitchen area with a wood-burning stove, a sturdy table with two chairs, and a bed tucked into the corner made up the main living space. A window looked out over the fields, offering a picturesque view of the rolling landscape.
“It’s perfect,” Isaac said, his voice barely above a whisper. He could already imagine himself here, cooking his own meals and resting after long days in the kitchen and the fields.
“I’m glad you like it. You’ve got a lot of potential, Isaac. Keep working hard, and who knows what the future holds?
Isaac nodded, a swell of determination rising within him. “I won’t let you down, sir. I promise.”
“I know you won’t,” Luca replied, his voice full of confidence. “Welcome home, Isaac.”
As Luca left, Isaac stood in the doorway, taking in the serenity of his new home. The small wooden house, with its simple comforts, felt like a significant step forward. It was a place of his own, a place where he could build his future.
That night, as he lay in bed, the sounds of the estate drifting through the open window, Isaac felt a profound sense of gratitude. He was no longer just a helper; he was part of something larger, part of a community that valued him. The little wooden house was more than just a dwelling; it was a symbol of trust and opportunity, of what could be achieved through hard work and loyalty.
