BELONGING - BOOK 1

05. The Ugly Duckling

HADIZA

Aunt Maya's voice pierced through my room, shattering my admiration for my reflection. "Diza, you'll be late on your first day if you don't get moving!" she yelled from the car, her words echoing off the walls. I took one last glance, smoothing out my uniform - the crisp white shirt, the pleated skirt, and the blazer with the Braithwaite Academy emblem. I felt like a total boss, my confidence boosted by the sharp creases and polished shoes.

I grabbed my Nike backpack, a gift from Aunt Maya, and hesitated for a moment. I had wanted to use the Luis Vuitton handbag Souraiya got me, but my shyness won over. Maybe next time. I didn't want to draw too much attention on my first day.

As I settled into the front seat, Hanifa's sarcastic tone drifted from the backseat. "We could've just driven, you know." Her eyes met mine through the rearview mirror, and she rolled them dramatically, her attention already focused on her Chemistry textbook. Her white scarf was wrapped neatly around her head, a stark contrast to her usual hijab. I wondered if she was trying to make a statement or just wanted a change.

Aunt Maya navigated the Maserati out of the car park, and we glided along the paved road, the rolling hills of Aso Rock and the Abuja cityscape unfolding before us. The scent of freshly cut grass and the distant hum of the city filled the air, a familiar yet exciting smell. I whispered a quick prayer as we approached the school, seeking guidance and calm.

Braithwaite Academy loomed before us, its sprawling campus buzzing with students. Aunt Maya pulled into the parking lot, and I gazed out at the sea of unfamiliar faces. "Here we are," she said, her voice tinged with a mix of excitement and nervousness. "Hanifa will show you around, okay?" I nodded, feeling a mix of emotions: excitement for this new chapter, nervousness about fitting in, and gratitude for Aunt Maya's support.

As I stepped out of the car, the warm sun kissed my skin, and the sounds of chatter and laughter enveloped me. I felt a pang of sadness, knowing I'd no longer participate in assemblies - Braithwaite had a more British-Nigerian approach to learning, no morning gatherings. Aunt Maya's voice brought me back. "Have a great day, Diza! Hanifa will guide you." She waved, blew air kisses, and I reciprocated, feeling a sense of love and appreciation.

The field stretched out before me, a vibrant green expanse dotted with students. I spotted the football field, a masterpiece of precision and care. My eyes wandered, searching for the basketball court, my mind already racing with possibilities. I imagined myself sinking three-pointers, feeling the rush of competition, and making new friends who shared my passion.

As Hanifa sauntered up the stairs, she greeted students with a radiant smile, her charisma drawing attention like a magnet. Meanwhile, I trailed behind, feeling like an invisible shadow. It was as if the entire school knew Hanifa, and she knew everyone - except me, apparently. Her black beauty and brilliance seemed to captivate the crowd, leaving me in her wake.

I couldn't help but notice the whispers and stares as we passed by. A girl's shriek made me cringe, her eyes fixed on me like I was a ghost. I tried to shake off the feeling of unease, but it lingered like a bad omen.

Hanifa halted in front of a door, pointing it out as if I couldn't read the bold letters: "Vice Principal's Office". "This is where you'll meet Mrs. Susan," she said, her tone detached. "She'll sort you out with everything - class schedule, locker number, room number, ID card, books, and even the school map, so you don't get lost." With that, she turned on her heel and disappeared into the crowd, leaving me feeling abandoned and frustrated.