Chapter 6

The weeks passed quietly. Life settled into a rhythm that no one spoke about, but everyone noticed. 

Derin returned to her project with renewed determination. Some evenings she worked at the dining table, surrounded by sketches and measurements.

Ire counted down the days to her JAMB examination. Irawo filled notebook after notebook. And every morning,  Gbemi left for work before most of the house had fully woken up.
 

One evening, she returned later than usual. She slipped off her shoes near the door and let out a long breath. Mrs. Bisi looked up at the sound of the door. “Tough day?”

Gbemi smiled tiredly.

"A little."

"You've hardly rested this week."

"I'll rest later."

Mrs. Bisi shook her head.

"You always say that."

Before Gbemi could answer, Chief walked into the sitting room.

"How was work?"

She smiled. "Busy."

He looked at her for a moment. "Busy or exhausting?"

She laughed softly. “Maybe both.”
 

Chief nodded. "Go upstairs."

She frowned. "Why?"

"Because dinner won't be ready for another thirty minutes."

“I can help Mrs. Bisi.”
 

Mrs. Bisi pointed a wooden spoon at her. "No."

"But—"

"No."

Chief smiled. "That's an order."

Gbemi simply looked at the two of them and then she laughed.

"I've been outnumbered."

"You have."

She walked upstairs. 

By the time Gbemi came downstairs again, dinner was ready.

She instinctively reached for the stack of plates. Mrs. Bisi gently tapped her hand. "Leave them."

"I can help."

"I know." Mrs. Bisi smiled.

"But today, let us help you."

For a few seconds, Gbemi didn't move. Then she quietly nodded.

“Thank you.”

For once, she let someone else take care of her.