House of Secrets
Abuja welcomed them with silent roads, blooming bougainvilleas, and a fully furnished apartment in Wuse 2. Daniel's new job had provided the space, and Favour's touch plants, scented candles, throw pillows made it a home.
But the kitchen remained eerily quiet.
Daniel often left early and returned late. Favour spent her days finishing her thesis, online shopping, and preparing takeout meals just before Daniel came home. She became an expert in deception:
Food placed in pots just before serving.
Fresh pepper sprinkled to fake a cooked scent.
Trash carefully disposed of outside to avoid any telltale wrappers.
It was her secret ritual.
Until one evening, Daniel came home early.
She was on the phone with a local eatery, whispering, "Please I need one bowl ogbono, no onions. He doesn't like it"
She heard the keys.
She hung up.
Daniel walked in, briefcase in hand. "Smells… different today. What's that?"
Favour's heart beat fast. "Ogbono! I tried it myself."
Daniel smiled. "Really? Nice."
He didn't ask further. But Favour knew it was too close,she had to be more careful.
And she had no idea the web she was weaving.