THE PRICE OF HER TEARS

Episode 1: The Price of a Mother’s Tears The sound of rain beat against the rusty roof as Florence sat at the small wooden table, staring at three unpaid school fee invoices. Her hands trembled as she counted the little money she had earned from selling vegetables at the market that day. It was not enough. She sighed and wiped away the tears that had gathered in her eyes. Angela, her eldest child with Gilbert, quietly walked over and held her mother’s hand. “Mummy, is everything okay?” the little girl asked softly. Florence forced a smile. “Everything will be fine, my love.” But deep inside, she knew she was not telling the truth. Earlier that morning, the school principal had given her one week to pay the children’s fees. If she failed, Angela, Tracy, and little Divine would be sent home. As she stared at the bills, memories of her past came rushing back. Years ago, she had left her first husband, Jonathan, after enduring years of strain caused by his mother’s constant interference. Leaving that marriage had broken her heart, especially because she had two daughters, Priscila and Victory, whom she loved dearly. When Gilbert entered her life, he seemed like an answer to her prayers. He was kind, caring, and promised never to let her suffer again. She believed him. She married him. Together, Florence and Gilbert gave birth to three children: Angela, Tracy, and Divine. But over time, the man she had fallen in love with disappeared. Gilbert rarely came home. He spent his nights with other women, showering them with gifts while Florence struggled to feed their children. He never paid their school fees or bought their books. Every responsibility rested on Florence’s shoulders. The sound of a car stopping outside interrupted her thoughts. Florence looked through the window. Gilbert had finally returned. He stepped out of an expensive car, laughing with a beautifully dressed woman. Florence watched as he handed the woman a shopping bag before she hugged him goodbye. Her heart sank. Moments later, the front door burst open. Gilbert staggered inside. “Where is my food?” he demanded without even greeting his family. Florence took a deep breath. “Gilbert… the children need their school fees. The school has given us one week.” Gilbert’s face darkened. Without warning, he slammed his fist onto the table, sending the unpaid invoices scattering across the floor. “Is that all you ever talk about? Money!” Angela, Tracy, and Divine huddled together in fear. Florence’s heart pounded as Gilbert took another step toward her. She knew tonight would change everything.