Chapter 26

THE cab slowed as it approached the quiet street, its tires crunching softly against loose gravel. The neighborhood was one of those places that tried very hard to look perfect— neatly lined houses, trimmed hedges, matching gates, and a calm that spoke of routine and order. When the cab finally pulled up in front of a semi-detached bungalow, the engine hummed briefly before dying down.

The door opened and two girls stepped out.

They were unmistakably students— school bags slung over their shoulders, uniforms slightly rumpled from a long day, shoes dusty at the hems. Amaka stepped out first, already digging into her pocket for money, while Hazel followed, adjusting the strap of her bag on her shoulder.

Amaka handed the fare through the open window.

“Thank you,” she said briskly.

The cab driver nodded, shifted gears, and zoomed off, disappearing down the street in seconds.

Amaka immediately turned toward the bungalow and began walking, her ste