As Abike and ìfẹ chatted in the store, a sense of concern lingered in the air. Abike noticed that ìfẹ wasn't looking her usual self. She inquired, "ìfẹ, is everything alright? You seem a bit off today."
ìfẹ sighed softly and replied, "It's about that order from your unique bead store, Abike. The servant who's supposed to deliver the hand's beads told me they're worth fifty cowries, but the person who placed the order offered only eighty cowries. I fear my effort might be in vain."
Abike leaned in, her eyes reflecting empathy. "Don't worry, ìfẹ. I know you need the money. We'll figure this out together."
ìfẹ managed a faint smile, grateful for Abike's understanding. "Thank you, Abike. I really appreciate your support."
Just then, Abike reminded ìfẹ, "You know, you only have two days left to deliver the order."
ìfẹ nodded, a determined glint in her eyes. "I'll make sure it's delivered by the other day afternoon. You can count on me."
The topic shifted as Abike started discussing their plans to open a cloth's weave store. She confessed, "ìfẹ, I've managed to save up more money than you. But I see how reluctant you are to ask your parents for help."
ìfẹ's expression turned solemn. "It's true. My parents don't have much, and I don't want to burden them. Besides, they suggested I serve my old boss as an apprentice again to earn money, but that would mean another three years of work."
Abike's face fell, realizing the weight of ìfẹ's situation. "That's tough. But we'll find a way. And don't forget, we must keep our living situation hidden from our parents. It's too risky for us as young women."
ìfẹ nodded in agreement. "You're right, Abike. We have to be cautious. Some men might try to take advantage of us."
ìfẹ's voice softened as she reassured her friend, "But everything will be okay. We'll overcome these challenges."
As the conversation continued, ìfẹ's gaze drifted to a precious hand band she had brought home from a recent feast. She confessed to Abike, "You know, I've been thinking about returning this hand band to its owner. It belongs to that annoying young lord I can't stand."
Abike raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Return it? Why? And who's this young lord?"
ìfẹ rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "the young lord I've never really liked. But I feel it's the right thing to do. Still, I'm scared to face him."
Abike grinned mischievously. "Well, if you need some courage, I can come with you when you return it."
ìfẹ chuckled, relieved. "You'd do that for me, Abike?"
"Of course! We're in this together," Abike replied with a wink.
" don't worry I'll sort it out' ìfẹ said
" I'll go back to store after walking with you in few metres" she replies
As the sun began to set, ìfẹ's friend decided to accompany her out