Ch 1: Graduating

Anita Baker, a 24-year-old woman, has recently completed her university studies. She is the eldest daughter in her family and has five younger sisters. Her father works in banking, while her mother is involved in trading.

She has a lovely complexion and a beautifully shaped figure with attractive curvy hips. She stands out from her sisters, with her fair complexion contrasting against their darker tones. She bears a striking resemblance to her mother, radiating a unique beauty. Her father, plagued by doubts and accusations, questions her lineage due to her fair complexion. However, her mother remains silent on the matter, urging her not to let her father's doubts affect her, assuring her that she is indeed his child.

Intriguingly, her father goes as far as considering a paternity DNA test, perplexed by her noticeably lighter complexion compared to her sisters. Her younger sister, Flora, who is a 22-year-old with a striking appearance, also harbors dislike towards her despite the small age difference.

Four of her sisters harbor a strong dislike for her, with the exception of her youngest sister named Glory, who holds a genuine affection for her. They say family is supposed to be close, but in her case, her chosen family is closer than her biological one.

In the midst of turmoil and suspicion, Mr. Joshua Baker remains steadfast in his commitment to his daughter's education. Despite the accusations and doubts surrounding his marriage, he continues to support Anita's academic journey. However, he still sends Anita to university to study business administration.

Anita is filled with joy as she completes her final exams and eagerly awaits the release of the results, which turn out to be exceptionally successful.

With her father's relentless accusations against her peaceful mother, Mrs. Tonia Baker, Anita has become wary of any man who approaches her with romantic intentions. She goes out on dates with them, but ultimately turns down their romantic advances.

Her best friend in the university, Temisa Patrick, has also encouraged her to be open to love, but she declined, sharing, "My father always accuses my mother of infidelity, yet he continues to reconcile with her and have more children. Despite his daily insults, it's hard to believe that he truly loves her, despite what Mother says."

Anita shook her head while talking to her friend during their second year of university. Successful men constantly pursued by her, but she can't help but feel that they only see her as a means to an end.

After crossing the bridge and betraying her trust, they will abandon her or falsely accuse her of infidelity, mirroring her father's constant mistreatment of her mother, which only seeks to plunge them both into despair.

Anita finds herself in a secluded space with her closest companion, getting ready for their ultimate gathering. "Anita, I am overjoyed. At long last, we will be bidding farewell to this school." Temisa expresses her deep longing for home.

"Me too," Anita softly responds, aware that her words don't reflect her true feelings. She dreads returning home, where her father's hurtful remarks towards her and her mother await. Her three younger sisters, Flora, Esther, and Favour, will likely continue their relentless teasing, labeling her as an outcast out of sheer envy for her appearance, as if she is to blame for their insecurities.

Anita shakes her head with a heavy heart, catching the attention of Temisa. "What's up, girlfriend? It's interesting to see that you don't appear to be happy, despite being one of the top graduates at our university today."

Temisa inquired as she rose from her chair in front of the mirror and approached Anita, who was seated on the couch. However, Anita shook her head once more and averted her gaze, choosing not to reply.

"What seems to be the issue, my dear?" Temisa approached and crouched in front of Anita, fully aware of the issue at hand. Anita had confided in her about her disdain for men, viewing them as despicable individuals.

"No need to worry, once I'm home, I'll have a chat with my mother about you moving in with us. It'll just be for your I.T. needs, until you find a better job to support yourself."

"Thank you," Anita's lips curl into a slight smile, and Temisa replies, "You're welcome. You know you're such a close and cherished friend to me, so there's no need for you to worry or shed tears. Graduating with a first class is a remarkable achievement, so you should feel proud. Today is a day to celebrate your success. Why don't you take a seat? I'll help enhance your natural beauty with some makeup."

Temisa gently encourages Anita to rise from her seat, and a subtle smile graces Anita's lips as she gracefully takes her place in front of the mirror in their shared private room.

Anita remarks, "I've never been a fan of makeup," as she observes Temisa unpacking one of her makeup kits and beginning to prepare her brush.

"I understand, but today is a fortunate occasion for you, so it would be fitting for you to appear charming when receiving your well-deserved accolades. So no excuses from you. Just do this for me, okay? It'll bring a smile to your face and brighten your mood throughout the day."

"Okay," Anita responded, captivated by her own reflection in the mirror as Temisa skillfully applied the rich brown powder to her face. Temisa begins by delicately applying mascara to the lashes, before moving on to enhance Anita's cheeks and nose with a touch of exquisite makeup powder.

After Temisa finishes giving Anita a makeover, Anita is taken aback by her transformed appearance in the mirror. She had never experimented with makeup before, and now, as she gazes at her reflection, she is rendered speechless. It becomes clear to her why Temisa attracts so many suitors.

Temisa comes from a wealthy background, thanks to her father's position in the Benson Group of Companies. With their immense wealth, the Benson family stands out among the elite in their country. Anita is captivated by the Benson family and dreams of working for them. This drove her to dedicate herself to her studies, spending countless hours immersed in books, in order to graduate as one of the top students at her university.

She considered reaching out to Temisa for assistance in approaching her father about a job at the BENSON GROUP. However, she was hesitant because she didn't want it to appear as though she was seeking an undeserved favor. It could lead others to perceive her as someone seeking financial gain or using her attractiveness to manipulate men for personal advantage. So, she made the decision to refrain from asking Temisa for her father's assistance once more.

"Finished, finally. Can't you see how lovely you appear in the mirror? It's truly remarkable! I believe I am one of the most skilled makeup artists on campus." Temisa fans herself with her hand as Anita smiles at her. "Don't get too carried away because of me, girlfriend. Indeed you tried, but I still don't like makeup."

"Please be quiet! I'm hoping someone catches your eye today and asks you out," Temisa giggles. Her romantic life with a constant stream of new love interests entering and exiting her life. She is unapologetic about her approach to relationships, disregarding the opinions of others and remaining skeptical of love.

Instead, she chooses to spend her time exploring connections with various individuals. She never confesses to being intimate with any of the guys she goes out with, which is hard to believe considering she's always seen with different guys in various locations, taking pictures together.

Despite this, she insists she's still a virgin, even after Anita told her she was also a virgin. It was hard to believe, especially since Anita didn't believe her either. Temisa stands out from the crowd with her bold fashion choices, confidently rocking bum shorts, crop tops, and other alluring outfits. She possesses a captivating allure, exuding confidence and embracing her curves.

Despite the differences in their appearances, Temisa harbors no envy towards Anita's fair complexion. Their shared department and course of study have forged a deep bond, transforming them into the closest of friends. Anita possesses a higher level of intelligence compared to Temisa, while Temisa is known for her love of partying.

"Shall we venture out now? I suspect our families have mostly arrived," Temisa suggests, swiftly organizing her remaining belongings and securing them in her box. They spent most of their time in the room they rented, even though the school was on holiday.

As Anita prepares to bid farewell, she gathers her belongings and packs her bags, ready to return home after the awarding ceremony. They emerge to witness the university's grand finale and the recognition of the top graduating student.

Anita Baker received a prestigious award and recognition for her outstanding academic achievements. Temisa couldn't contain her joy as she applauded her friend who confidently walked up to the stage to accept her well-deserved accolades.