Throwing his hands up dramatically, Olisa stepped back from the unfolding disaster. He finally said out loud "There's a limit to brotherhood. This is definitely past mine!"
Chibuzor shot him a silent, icy glance that could've frozen a river. Olisa zipped his mouth instantly.
---
Upstairs.
Mrs. Anozie sat at the center of the living room couch, her three sons and Nnenna flanking her like a council ready for judgment. Their collective gaze pinned Olaedo in place.
Standing before them, she drew in a shaky breath, her fingers twisting together. Each word felt like stepping through a minefield.
"Mom, guys," she began, her tone careful, "I met Chibuzor a while ago, actually before that jerk, Maduabuchi. At first, we were just friends while I was dating Maduabuchi because... well, I loved him." Her voice faltered slightly, bitterness coating the name.
Their faces softened, if only by a fraction. Seizing that small mercy, she pulled out a chair and sat down.
