Pride And Love

Prologue

Hana
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"Oh my God," I whispered, scanning the dimly lit room to check if any of my sisters were awake. They weren't. My heart pounded fiercely in my chest as I stared at the notification. I should have ignored it. I should have just gone back to sleep. But curiosity gnawed at me—who could possibly be messaging me at this hour?

Another notification popped up, and my heart dropped. It was from Khalil. Quickly, I tapped on it, and our WhatsApp chat opened. He had sent a picture of a bank receipt. My head started to ache.

There it was, my name, listed as the receiver of ₦2,000,000, sent just minutes ago. From none other than the man I broke up with two days ago. But why? Before I could even process the thought, he explained it.

Khalil (ex): Good day, Hana. I hope you're well? You should be, considering you broke up with me for peace of mind—just because I'm a married man. Must be nice, prioritizing yourself like that. I sent you this as a parting gift and for emotional support. I know where the money will go—feeding your family. I remember what it feels like to sleep hungry and wake up not knowing what to eat, but Alhamdulillah, I'm in a better place now. The least I can do is help the less fortunate. I hope this doesn't offend you, as it's given with good intentions. Goodbye, and please block me. I'll do the same. Thank you.

I was stunned. No—that's an understatement. I was flabbergasted. The message was a whirlwind of mixed emotions. It sounded like it came from an enemy, not an ex. But there was something unsettlingly friendly about it too. It felt manipulative. And I was offended. He had practically called me poor and hungry while asking about my well-being. Ha! Men are confusing, and Khalil was at the top of the list.

I was definitely sending back his money first thing in the morning.
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Thanks for reading.
Bye.