DECEPTION

Chp. 7: The Innovation Deception.

As the evening drew to a close, my aunt called our driver to take us home, insisting that we dress up for the program she had planned. I suggested taking the bus instead, but she dismissed the idea and the driver arrived promptly, as if by magic. I couldn't shake off the feeling that she was hiding something, despite her kind and considerate behavior. I reluctantly agreed to go along with her plans, only because I didn't want to upset Justina.

As we drove to my house, Justina called her nanny to inform her that she wouldn't be returning home that night due to a night program and that she would be staying over at my place. Her nanny agreed, mentioning that she had also planned to visit her sick mother in the village that night. After the call, Justina turned to me and expressed her gratitude for having such a wonderful aunt in my family. However, she still seemed puzzled by my earlier desire to leave when my aunt arrived.

Upon arriving home, I was greeted by my mother's warm smile as I handed her her favorite shopping bag. Justina and I entered the house, and I dropped the remaining bags on the sofa before heading to the fridge to grab a drink. The evening was unfolding with a mix of emotions, and I couldn't help but wonder how long I could keep up this charade. Should I confide in Justina about my suspicions regarding my aunt's involvement in my father's death? The thought lingered in my mind as I went about our evening routine.

I joined my mom and best friend, Justina, who were engaged in a lively conversation, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Feeling left out, I asked them what was so amusing. Justina turned to my mom and mentioned that she had spent the day with Aunt Faith, who looked younger and more beautiful than ever. My mom smiled, delighted to hear this, but Justina's expression turned curious as she turned to me.

"I wonder why Elizabeth wanted to leave so suddenly, especially with our exams coming up,"

She said, her eyes narrowing slightly as she tried to read my expression.

I knew I had to come up with an excuse quickly, so I feigned clumsiness and dropped my glass of water, using the distraction to change the subject.

"Well, that's personal, and let's not focus on that right now. We should get ready for the innovation program tonight,"

I said, grabbing Justina's arm and heading upstairs with the shopping bags. I was relieved to have deflected their attention, but I knew I couldn't keep my secrets hidden forever. The truth about my aunt and my reasons for wanting to leave lingered in my mind, waiting to be uncovered.

Miss Faith's mind was consumed by the lingering thought, but she couldn't understand why she felt troubled when she had no hand in his death. She pushed the thoughts aside and focused on her current surroundings - an exquisite beauty lounge where skilled staff were transforming her into a stunning damsel. As they worked their magic, her mind wandered back to the conversation she had with Justina earlier.

Justina had mentioned something about her father's death, but Miss Faith didn't press for more details, seeing the tears well up in Justina's eyes. Now, she couldn't help but wonder what secrets Justina was keeping.

"Did she say anything else?"

Miss Faith asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Like finding out who was responsible for his death?"

Justina hesitated, clearly torn between loyalty and guilt.

"I've told you enough, Miss Faith. I feel guilty betraying my friend's trust."