Julie sat at her desk, fully immersed in work. Her office was quiet except for the soft hum of the air conditioner and the rhythmic tapping of her fingers on the laptop keyboard.
Her phone rang. She glanced at the screen — Elizabeth. A smile tugged at her lips as she answered.
"Hello."
"Hey babe, what's up?" Elizabeth's lively voice filled the line.
"I'm fine. Just busy with work," Julie replied, eyes still on her screen.
Elizabeth had been Julie's best friend since high school — the complete opposite of her. While Julie was composed, proud, and always in control, Elizabeth was carefree, bubbly, and loved a good outing. Somehow, their friendship worked perfectly.
"So what's the plan for today?" Elizabeth asked. "Let's go out for lunch later. I have gist for you, ehn — plenty!"
Julie smiled faintly. "Ah, I wish I could. I'm really swamped today. There's just too much to handle."
Elizabeth groaned dramatically. "Ahn-ahn, Julie, not even small break? You need to relax sometimes."
"I know, I know," Julie said softly. "But not today. I promise, another time."
"Hmm… okay o," Elizabeth sighed, clearly disappointed.
Julie felt bad. "Don't be upset, please. How about dinner instead? I'll be totally free by then."
That lifted Elizabeth's mood instantly. "Deal! Dinner it is. I'll text you the spot."
"Perfect. Bye, dear." Julie ended the call with a small smile and returned to her laptop, her focus unbroken.
---
Down at the Churchills', Esther was lounging on the couch watching a movie when Arinze stomped into the sitting room. His face was tight with frustration.
"Bro, what happened? Why's your face like that?" she asked.
Arinze hissed. "It's Dad."
"What about him?" Esther sat up.
He ran a hand over his head and exhaled sharply. "He wants me to go work as a junior staff in some random organization — just to gain experience! Can you imagine?"
Esther blinked. "He said that?"
"Yes! As if my Harvard degree means nothing. He thinks I'm not ready."
"Brother," Esther said calmly, "you're really puffing like a bull right now. Chill small."
Arinze sighed and leaned back. "I just need to get out of here. Is there any decent bar or club around? I need a drink."
Esther's lips curled into a mischievous smile. "Well… I might know a place. But only if you let me come with you. Deal?"
Arinze gave her a tired look. "Fine. Whatever. Let's just go."
"Perfect!" she said, jumping up. "Give me five minutes — I need to get dressed."
She dashed off to her room, grinning with excitement, while Arinze leaned back on the couch, rubbing his temples.