25 July 2026 @marinnewest's Freewrite Writing Prompt Day 3175: Bare Minimum.
This is my post on #freewriters3175 #dailyprompt bare minimum hosted by 
Okon was known in his village as a hardworking young man. He dreamed of building a successful business and giving his family a comfortable life. Ekaette, his fiancée, was kind, patient and supportive. She believed that love was not only about words but also about effort.
At the beginning of their relationship, Okon was very attentive. He called Ekaette every morning, visited her after work and always made plans for their future. However, after they became engaged, everything changed.
Okon began doing only what was necessary to keep the relationship going. He rarely called, hardly visited, and often forgot important dates. Whenever Ekaette complained, he would say, “At least I am trying. What more do you want?”
Ekaette was hurt by his attitude. She did not expect expensive gifts or luxurious dates. She only wanted attention, respect and genuine effort. She explained this to Okon several times, but he continued giving her the bare minimum.
One evening, Ekaette received an invitation to attend a wedding with her friend. There, she met a man who spoke passionately about his wife and the effort they both made to keep their marriage strong. Ekaette suddenly realised that she deserved a relationship where both people were willing to give their best.
The next day, she met Okon and spoke honestly. “I don't need perfection,” she said. “I only need someone who values me enough to make an effort.”
Okon was silent. For the first time, he understood that love could not survive on the bare minimum. He apologised and promised to change.
Ekaette smiled. She knew promises alone were not enough. Only consistent effort would prove whether Okon had truly learned his lesson.