Kathrine: I’m An Orphan But I Won’t Do It – Episode 22
After some time had passed, Mrs. Abigail walked into the room. She seemed to be feeling a little down, her mood not quite as cheerful as before. Despite her attempt to put on a smile when she saw me, I could still notice a bit of sadness in her expression.
As she settled down next to me on the sofa, she suddenly recalled an important matter that needed addressing. “Oh, I almost forgot! Could you tell me about where you live, Kathrine? I’m curious about your living arrangements and who you share them with.”
The timing of her question struck me like a thunder, which made me wonder why she hadn’t asked this earlier. It was almost like the phone call she received triggered this specific line of questioning.
Taking a moment to think, I debated whether I should be completely open or not. While I understood that mentors often need to know about their apprentice’s living situation, I had concerns that she might use this information in a negative way, especially considering the unsettling nightmare I had experienced.
Then, a memory surfaced—I remembered that she had asked me a similar question when I returned her handbag at Guarantee Trust Bank. Back then, I hadn’t gotten the chance to answer before she gave me her business card and invited me to her salon for the next day.
Thinking about that moment made me realize that she might have had innocent intentions. This made me lean towards being truthful.
“I used to live with my Mom, but she passed away a month ago. Now, I’m living alone,” I said, leaving out the exact details of my home address on purpose.
Offering her condolences, she expressed, “I’m truly sorry for your loss, Kathrine. You’ve faced a lot at such a young age.”
Curious, she continued, “So, you’re on your own managing all your expenses, including rent, without a job?”
Walking her through the story of my challenges, I described the hardships I faced while trying to gather money for my mother’s breast cancer treatment. I explained the difficulties I encountered when seeking assistance, especially from men who expected me to do things that compromised my integrity, and I consistently turned them down.
I shared how my Uncle was among those who exerted pressure on me, offering help only if I agreed to have an affa!r with him. I didn’t shy away from recounting the heart-wrenching experience of witnessing my mother’s battle with breast cancer till her last breath.
Adding to this, I recounted how I lost my job at a hotel because I refused to engage in an inappropr!ate relationship with my manager.
Mrs. Abigail sighed, and said, “You really held your ground? Facing the loss of your mother due to financial struggles and yet standing firm against those demands from men? Your choices are truly admirable, Kathrine. Your strength is truly inspiring, and I wish I had possessed such resilience when I was young. Your future is surely bright; remain strong and please, never be discouraged.”
“Thank you, Ma’am. I won’t,” I replied.
Then, unexpectedly, she presented a proposal that echoed the tempting offer from my dream.
“I know this might sound unexpected, but would you consider living with me during the three years of apprenticeship? And even beyond that, if you’d like to continue staying with me until you’re ready to find your own place, that’s completely okay. What do you think, Kathrine?” she inquired.
Instantly, I knew how to respond, saying the very words that had effectively worked in my dream.
“I’m genuinely appreciative of your kindness, Ma’am. However, I believe sharing a living space might lead to distractions for me. I aim to maintain a certain level of separation to enhance my focus on learning from you. I’ve already settled my rent for a year at my current place, and I’m confident that by the next year, I’ll be ready for the subsequent payment. Please don’t feel obligated, Ma’am. I can handle living on my own. Thank you again for your generous offer,” I politely declined.
My decision seemed to catch her off guard, her expression reflecting a blend of surprise and comprehension. She knew well that once I made up my mind, it was unlikely to change easily.
She respected my choice. “I appreciate your sense of responsibility, Kathrine. But if you ever reconsider, remember that my offer remains open. You’re always welcome in my home.”
Expressing my gratitude, I felt a sense of relief that she respected my decision.
Shifting the topic to business matters, she generously shared priceless insights and information to help me develop into a skilled stylist. Our conversation stretched well into the afternoon.
Despite the growing pangs of hunger, I refrained from mentioning it. I had resolved not to indulge in anything she might offer until my official start date. Yet, the sensation of hunger started to affect my ability to focus.
Somewhere amidst out discussion , she remembered I hadn’t taken anything and wanted to offer me something to eat. Drawing on my willpower, I made up a reason, saying I usually don’t eat much and wasn’t hungry right then. Even though it surprised her a bit, she believed what I said, maybe because I seemed calm.
Continuing our conversation, she suggested that I go and observe the stylists working in the salon. This, she said, would help me become familiar with their methods and practices.
Suppressing the hunger in my stomach, I persevered and remained at the salon until closing time, which was around 8pm.
Mrs. Abigail kindly suggested that she drive me home, a gracious offer that I politely turned down. Instead, she went ahead and arranged an Uber ride for me, handed over some money, and told me to resume officially the next day.
Due to heavy traffic, it wasn’t until 10pm that I finally reached my home. My immediate priority was to alleviate my intense hunger, so I quickly went out to buy noodles and bread.
As I settled in for the night, feeling excited about the challenges of the upcoming day, my phone began to ring. Glancing at the screen, I saw that it was my uncle calling.
To be continued ✍️