The steady sound of pounding filled the small kitchen.
Ella bent slightly, gripping the pestle as she pounded pepper in a rhythmic motion, while Bimbo sat nearby, carefully washing bitter leaves in a bowl of water. The air was quiet, heavy with unspoken thoughts, until Bimbo finally broke the silence.
"I went to apologize to Mama Caro today," she said.
Ella paused for a brief second before continuing, her tone slightly surprised. "Wow… that's good. Did she accept?"
"Yes, of course," Bimbo replied.
A short silence followed before Ella spoke again, more cautiously this time. "That's good. But… have you thought about it?"
Bimbo looked up slightly. "Thought about what?"
"The job offer."
The words lingered in the air.
Ella shifted her grip on the pestle before speaking again, her voice softer now. "I'm not putting you under pressure… it's your choice."
Bimbo looked at her for a moment, then nodded slowly. "I know. That's why I think you should go for it."
Ella stopped pounding completely this time and lifted her head.
"Me?"
"Yes, you," Bimbo said gently. "I heard the woman is very kind… and she lost her husband a few years ago."
Ella's expression softened. "That's so painful."
"It is," Bimbo continued. "And I also heard she pays well. I just thought maybe, instead of only money, she might even help you go back to school… maybe even up to university."
For a moment, Ella said nothing. Then, slowly, a small smile appeared on her face.
"That's actually a very good idea. Thank you, Mum… for agreeing."
Bimbo's expression softened as she looked at her daughter. "It's okay. I just want a better life for you. With this job, you could finally go back to school… and at least, the burden on me would be lighter."
Ella nodded. "Yes, Mum. I understand."
"Good," Bimbo said. "So tomorrow morning, we'll go and see the woman."
"Okay, Mum."
Bimbo glanced at her again. "Are you done with the pepper?"
Ella gave a small nod. "Yes, I am."
The next morning, a tricycle slowed to a stop in front of a beautifully painted duplex.
Ella's eyes widened the moment she saw it.
The house stood tall and elegant, its surroundings neat and quiet. It was the kind of place that made you feel small just by standing in front of it. This was Mrs. Sampson's residence—a woman widely known for her kindness and generosity. People often spoke of her as someone who helped widows and orphans without hesitation.
Bimbo stepped down first, adjusting her wrapper slightly before turning to her daughter. "Come."
Ella followed quietly, though her gaze kept wandering in awe.
They approached the gate and knocked.
A few seconds later, it creaked open, revealing a security man who looked at them carefully.
"Who are you both? How can I help you?" he asked.
Bimbo greeted him politely. "Good morning. I came with my daughter to apply for the housemaid job."
"Oh… the job?" he said.
"Yes."
He stepped aside and opened the gate wider. "Alright, come in."
"Thank you," Ella said softly as they walked past him.
"Wait here," the security man added. "Let me inform my madam that you're here."
Bimbo nodded. "No problem."
As they stood in the compound, Ella leaned closer to her mother.
"Mummy… this house is too fine," she whispered.
Bimbo gave a small smile. "She is a kind woman. You will be happy here if you get the job."
Ella straightened slightly, confidence creeping into her voice. "Don't worry, Mum. I can do it. Besides, I'm a good cleaner… why won't I get the job?"
Bimbo nodded. "I pray so."
Moments later, the security man returned. "Come in and wait in the sitting room."
"Thank you," Bimbo said, gently nudging Ella. "Let's go."
They followed him inside—and the moment Ella stepped into the sitting room, her breath caught.
Everything looked… expensive.
The couch alone seemed worth more than anything she had ever owned. Beautiful paintings hung neatly on the walls, while the glass-finished staircase reflected light across the room. A large television was mounted perfectly, and an aquarium added colour and life to the already stunning space. Above them, chandeliers sparkled softly, completing the room's luxurious feel.
Carefully, Ella sat down, still taking everything in.
"Sit properly," Bimbo whispered. "Show some respect."
Ella quickly adjusted her posture.
Then, just as silence settled again, the faint sound of footsteps echoed from within.
Someone was coming.
Both mother and daughter instinctively stood up.
And then she appeared.
Mrs. Sampson.
"Good afternoon, ma," they greeted in unison.
She looked at them calmly before responding.
"Good afternoon."
The air shifted.
Because in that moment… everything was about to change.
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