Now, he said, changing the topic. Is the food ready? Because after all that drama, I’m starving. She laughed softly and nodded. Yes, sir. It’s ready. Good, he said. Let’s eat. Later that evening, Benson’s phone rang again. It was his father. Good evening, Dad. His father didn’t waste time. So, Juliet came here crying this morning.

She said she met a strange girl in your kitchen wearing your clothes and cooking like she owns the house. Benson closed his eyes. Dad, is that why you’re calling me? His father sounded firm. Answer me, Benson. Who is that girl? And why is she living in your house? Benson frowned. Dad, the person Juliet saw is not my woman.

I don’t have anything with her. She’s just someone I helped from the street. She had no place to go. I brought her in to help around the house and get back on her feet. Benson, his father said calmly. I didn’t say you should not help anybody. That’s not the issue. I’m only saying be careful. Some girls nowadays are dangerous.

They look innocent today and tomorrow they’re the reason your business crashes. Just be careful. Benson replied, “Dad, I know what I’m doing.” Juliet has no right to come to your house and start reporting me like I’m a child. His father sighed. You know Juliet loves you.

She’s just scared of losing you and she’s worried because this whole wedding plan is dragging too long. Benson rolled his eyes. Dad, with all due respect, that wedding is none of my business right now. I have over six building projects I’m managing. I don’t have time for fake love or family alliances. I’m not marrying someone just because her father is your friend.

Watch your tone, young man. His father snapped. This marriage is important to both families. It’s not just about you. Benson stood up. Then go ahead and marry her yourself since it’s not about me. I’m not interested. I won’t marry someone I don’t love. His father paused. So, is it this street girl you’re falling for? Benson laughed.

Dad, this conversation is over. I need to rest. Well talk later. He ended the call without waiting for a reply. A week later, Benson had traveled for a business meeting outside Los. He was expected back that same evening. Zara remained in the mansion, keeping everything clean and organized just like he asked.

That afternoon, she was in the kitchen cutting vegetables for stew when the front door opened loudly. Zara paused. She wasn’t expecting anyone. Juliet walked in like she owned the house. She looked around and frowned. So, you’re still here? Zara swallowed and greeted quietly. Good afternoon, Ma. Juliet folded her arms. You’re very stubborn, aren’t you? I thought by now you’d be gone. Zara looked down.

Please, Ma. I’m just doing my duties till Mr. Benson comes back. Juliet hissed. Duties in my man’s house. No shame. Anyway, since you’re acting like a maid, come and wash my clothes. Zara blinked in surprise. Ma, but I’m busy right now. And besides, there’s a washing machine in the laundry room.

Juliet stepped forward and shouted, “Did I ask you to explain?” I said, “Go and wash my clothes. They’re outside at the corner of the compound.” Zara hesitated. Please, let me just finish cooking. I need to prepare his food before he returns. Juliet raised her hand in anger. Will you shut up and do what I said? Wash those clothes before I change my mind.

If not, you’ll be out of this house before my man returns. Zara was shaking. Ma, please, you don’t have to insult me. Juliet laughed wickedly. Insult? I haven’t even started. You poor village girl. Very ugly thing. Just look at you. Your dry skin, your big eyes, your worn out slippers, dirty thing. I don’t even know why you’re still in this house. Maybe Benson has lost his mind.

Zara’s lips trembled, but she stayed silent. Let my man come back, Juliet continued. You will leave this house today. I promise you. You will pack your things and go back to wherever you crawled out from. Zara walked slowly toward the backyard, her eyes filled with tears.

She picked up Juliet’s clothes, even though they didn’t look dirty, and went to the side of the compound. Juliet sat on the couch, scrolling through her phone with a proud smile. “Rubbish, girl,” she muttered, trying to act like a queen. “We’ll see how long you last.” Benson’s car pulled into the compound just as the evening sun dropped low in the sky.