Amadou’s Unexpected Market Treasure

By Sulayman Njie

Once upon a time, in the bustling heart of Serrekunda, there was a lively market where you could find nearly everything under the sun. Vegetables piled high, the fragrant aroma of spices swirling in the air, and vendors, always ready to sell their goods with shining smiles. Amadou Wurry was sent by his mother on a simple mission: shop for the week's groceries.

Amadou was a cheerful young man, albeit a bit distractible. Armed with a worn-out grocery list from his mother, he set off with purpose, navigating the energetic labyrinth known as Serrekunda Market.

Despite the overwhelming hustle and bustle, Amadou pressed on, ticking eggs, yams, and fresh fish off his list. As he pondered over a particularly confusing banana stand, something—or rather, someone—caught his eye and immediately made him forget about his grocery duties.

There, amidst the colourful stalls and chatty shoppers, was Mabintou. Her laughter floated through the market like a gentle breeze, capturing the attention of many, including Amadou. Mabintou wasn’t on the list—unless you count ‘a heart-stopping distraction’ as one of your weekly essentials!

With his heart skipping like a schoolboy who missed class, Amadou cautiously approached Mabintou, hoping she might not just be a temporary distraction but a lovely addition to his life. Introductions were charmingly awkward; Amadou nearly spoke to the watermelon next to Mabintou instead of the lady herself. But Mabintou, with her sparkling humour, found Amadou's nervousness endearing.

In a twist of fate—and thanks to Amadou’s signature clumsiness—they both ended up sitting together at a nearby food stall. What was meant to be a brief market errand turned into an impromptu lunch date where they shared a plate of spicy domoda and stories of their lives.

By the time they finished, it seemed they both agreed that destiny had added an unexpected ingredient to Amadou’s list. They left the market hand in hand, with Amadou promising his mother that he did indeed bring something (someone) special from Serrekunda Market.

And just like that, Amadou’s market run concluded not with a bag full of produce but with his heart—and soon arm—in Mabintou’s affectionate hold. He eventually returned home with Mabintou, who would soon become not just a beloved figure in Amadou’s life but his wife too.

The story doesn’t end there; however, it unfolds further when Amadou discovers Mabintou's home right in the heart of Serrekunda. Despite the bustling environment, he managed to fetch such a dazzling damsel like a pro, navigating the vibrant landscape with ease. As they settled down, an unexpected jahanka chef took charge, ensuring their future together was filled with delightful flavours. Indeed, the Fulas were in love, and everyone in Serrekunda marveled at how sometimes life surprises you with the most unexpected and beautiful treasures. 😂