The Agony Of A Weeping Child

13 - Let it out

Mercy's day began with a sense of determination as she styled her hair and prepared for the activities ahead. Having already ground the beans at Mrs. Folake's house, she was ready to dive into frying akara.

Morning Sales and Community Interaction

At 6:05 AM, she began frying akara, and soon enough, a group of boys stopped by to buy some. They were drawn to Mercy's friendly demeanor. One of the boys, curious about why a girl her age was selling akara instead of being in school, asked her directly. Mercy explained that she was making ends meet and helping her mother, who was not around. The boy, new to the area and unaware of Mercy's situation, accepted her explanation.

As she continued her work, more customers, many of whom were regulars, came to buy her delicious akara. Her charming smile and friendly nature helped her to maintain a good rapport with her clientele, making her a beloved figure in the community. Those who remembered her from before her mother's death admired her resilience and hard work.

A Special Visitor

That evening, a silver Sienna pulled up in front of the shop, and out stepped Rev. Fr. Valentine, the parish priest of her cathedral, dressed in his white regalia adorned with a purple girdle. Upon seeing him, Mercy ran to embrace him, tears flowing as she wept.

Rev. Fr. Valentine offered comforting words, reassuring her that "it is well, daughter," while he wiped her tears with a handkerchief from his pocket. They moved to the car to talk more comfortably, where he expressed his regret for not arriving sooner to offer his condolences. He explained, "I heard the news while I was still in Spain studying a course, but I told myself that you would be the first person to see when I get to this town before going to the seminary."

Mercy was touched that he had thought of her during such a difficult time, grateful for his visit and support.