…At Okoye Residence

The Okoye residence, a charming three-bedroom bungalow in Independence Layout, Enugu, exuded warmth and hospitality. The sunny yellow exterior and terracotta red roof were complemented by vibrant flowers that bloomed in every corner of the compound. A well-manicured lawn, dotted with colorful garden chairs and a swing, invited relaxation. Inside, the cozy atmosphere was enhanced by plush furniture, soft lighting, and vibrant artwork, making it the perfect haven for the Okoye family and their guests.

Adanna sat in the parlor, intently focused on the Ludo game she was playing with her brother, Chukwunonso, and Emmanuel. Her mind, however, kept wandering to the upcoming university entrance exam results. “Guys, I’m so nervous,” she said, rolling the dice. “The results are coming out in a few days, and I don’t know if I’ll get in.”

Chukwunonso: “Ah, Adanna, why are you getting worried now? I told you this ago, you were so confident after the exam. You said it was easy and that you were going to pass.”

Adanna: “I know, I know. But that was before I started thinking about it too much. What if I didn’t do as well as I thought? What if I don’t get into Nursing?”

Emmanuel: “Adanna, you’re overthinking this. You studied hard and you did your best. That’s all you can do.”

Chukwunonso: “Yeah, and remember when you came back from the exam? You were gloating about how easy it was and how you were going to pass with flying colors. What happened to that confidence?”

Adanna: “I don’t know…I guess I just started thinking about all the what-ifs. What if I didn’t answer that one question correctly? What if I didn’t manage my time well?”

Just then, their mother, Mrs. Okoye, a beautiful African woman with a warm smile, walked into the parlor from the kitchen with a plate of freshly fried plantains. “Leave my daughter, my first daughter, alone! She’s been working hard and doing her best. I believe in her.”

Chukwunonso: “But Mom, we’re just trying to help her see sense.”

Mrs. Okoye: “Sense? You think worrying and doubting herself is sense? No, no, no. Adanna needs encouragement and support right now, not criticism and doubt. You boys should be uplifting her, not bringing her down.”

Emmanuel: “Sorry, Mom…”

Mrs. Okoye’s expression turned stern, her eyes narrowing as she gazed intensely at Emmanuel. She rolled her eyes and sighed, “Sorry, Mom? Sorry isn’t enough, Emmanuel. You should be apologizing to your sister, not me.”

Chukwunonso: “Chukwunonso, don’t just sit there, apologize to your sister too!”

Chukwunonso: “Sorry, Adanna…we didn’t mean to make you feel bad.”

Mrs. Okoye: “See, Adanna? Even your brothers know they were wrong. Now, let’s put this behind us and focus on celebrating your upcoming success. No more worrying or negative talk in this house!”

Adanna smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. “Thanks, Mom. I feel better now.”

To Be Continued…