Amina felt safe in Vero’s home. The woman had been kind to her. She bought her new clothes, took her to the salon, made sure she ate three times a day, and told her that if she needed anything, she should ask promptly. This was more than she expected from someone she hardly knew. What more could she ask for?
Initially, Vero thought Amina was fourteen years old, but was shocked when the girl told her that she clocked sixteen years a few weeks ago. The girl also looked too skinny for her liking. She couldn’t imagine what she must have passed through while living with her aunts. It must have been dreadful.
She reached out for her phone when it started to ring.
“Mummy…”
The sound of her daughter’s voice made her smile. “Lianate, how are you? How are my babies?” she remembered the last time she saw the twin boys.
“They are fine. Mummy, Nonso and Dozie will be starting school next week. But, I don’t know how Ike and I are going to cope. Most days, I return from work at 6 pm and Ike comes back at 8pm. Who will take care of the twins when the school bus drops them at 1pm?” Lianate complained.
Vero thought about what her daughter was saying.
“We do not want to employ an help, but with the way things are right now, we don’t have a choice anymore. I love my children, but I am not ready to resign from work just yet. Mum, do you know any agent that can help us to get a good maid?”
Vero’s gaze darted in Amina’s direction. The girl was watching a soap opera on the television. “I know an agent that can help you.”
“Thank God. I have been worried sick. My predicament almost gave me an heart attack."
The girl's laughter filled her ears. “I rescued a young girl some days ago. She is an orphan and is also hardworking. She would be a good fit."
“You did what?!” Lianate’s voice rose a notch higher.
“It is a long story, but I think Amina will be able to take care of the twins.”
“Mum, she is a complete stranger! Can you vouch for her?” she sounded troubled.
“I have watched the girl. She is godly and respectful. I think you will like her too,” Vero leaned against the chair and relaxed.
“O-okay. We trust your judgement. Ike and I will come over this weekend to meet her,” Lianate sighed heavily.
“Beautiful. I am so happy that my grand kids are starting school,” Vero grinned. She could still remember how little they were when they were born.
“Those boys are terrorists…” Lianate groaned.
Vero hissed, “Like mother, like children."
“What?! What's that supposed to mean? You cannot compare me with those vampires."
“Says who? You were way worse."
“That’s impossible!” Lianate screamed. Then she started to laugh.
“If your father was still alive, he would concur,” Vero chuckled, then fell silent. Even though it had been almost a decade, she still missed her husband every single day.
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