WHEN LOVE HAPPENS

CHAPTER FIVE : JOB OFFER

Some where in Enugu there was a young lady called Beauty who is in love with his boyfriend named Obi. Obi had been using Beauty all along, treating her more like a personal maid than a girlfriend. He would constantly demand intimacy from her, but Beauty, guided by her principles and self-respect, always refused. She believed such matters were reserved for a committed relationship or marriage.

Despite her refusal, Obi continued to maintain his facade of affection. Beauty would spend long hours in his small apartment, cleaning, cooking, and ensuring everything was in perfect order. She did this out of love and devotion, believing she was building a future with him.

Unbeknownst to her, Obi had begun seeing another woman. He would call his secret girlfriend at night to spend time with her after Beauty left his home. The betrayal was hidden behind Obi’s charm and promises, leaving Beauty unaware of the painful reality.

Meanwhile, Beauty’s struggle with unemployment continued.

Two years had passed since she graduated with First Class honors in Business Administration from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, yet no suitable job had come her way. Each day she went out searching, sending CVs to every possible opportunity, only to return home disappointed.

One morning, news reached her that a reputable company in Enugu City was recruiting graduates. They were calling applicants to submit their CVs and attend interviews.

Excitement surged in Beauty’s heart. She immediately prepared her CV, polished her appearance, and spent the next days rehearsing answers, ensuring she would present herself with confidence and professionalism.

Monday morning arrived, and Beauty woke at 4:30 a.m., determined to make a good impression. After bathing and dressing in a neat, professional outfit, she left home well ahead of time to account for the forty-minute commute to the company office.

Upon arrival, she was overwhelmed by the sheer number of candidates. The company required only one hundred employees, yet more than eight hundred people had gathered, all hoping for a position.

Fortunately, Beauty had arrived early and was admitted before the gates closed to latecomers. She waited nervously among the crowd, praying silently for favor.

When her turn finally came, she entered the interview room with poise and composure. The manager asked detailed questions about her education, skills, and previous experiences. Beauty answered thoughtfully, articulating her responses with clarity and confidence.

By the end of the interview, the manager smiled and told her she would hear from them soon. Beauty left the building feeling a mix of hope, relief, and anxious anticipation.

That Friday evening, as Beauty rested at home after a long week, her phone beeped with a new message. She picked it up, curiosity and apprehension gripping her simultaneously.

It was from the company where she had attended the interview. Her heart raced as she read the words on the screen: she had been selected! She was to resume work the following Monday, with a starting salary of four hundred thousand naira per month.

Overwhelmed with joy, she screamed, startling her mother and brother, who rushed to her side. Showing them the message, she could see their expressions light up with happiness and pride.

Nnamdi immediately began making plans. “Once you start receiving your salary, you will help me open my mechanic workshop. I am tired of renting keke and struggling to make ends meet,” her brother said excitedly.

Their mother, however, had a different vision. She reminded Beauty that her first salary should be used to restock her crayfish business, ensuring she could continue being known in the market as the formidable Stainless Woman.

Beauty laughed. “I haven’t even started my job yet, and you’re already planning what I should do with my salary?” she teased.

Monday morning arrived, and Beauty dressed meticulously in professional attire. She walked into the company with confidence, joined by other newly hired staff members. They were gathered in a large conference room where the company’s policies, rules, and code of conduct were explained in detail. Each employee read and signed the documents, ensuring full understanding of the organization’s expectations.

After orientation, the staff were led to their respective offices. Beauty entered her new workspace and could hardly contain her amazement. The office was elegant and fully equipped with modern furnishings, a brand-new laptop, and a powerful air conditioner that filled the room with cool, refreshing air.

Later that day, the company served lunch to all employees, and Beauty discovered that the organization also provided free transportation to nearby bus stops, making commuting convenient for everyone.

Upon returning home in the evening, Beauty shared her excitement and the details of her first 200,000 naira wardrobe allowance with her family. Their joy was palpable.

Her mother quickly collected 100,000 naira to restock the crayfish business and another 50,000 naira for household expenses. Beauty, however, felt grateful rather than concerned, knowing this was the first step toward a brighter, independent future. For the first time in many years, she felt a sense of hope and accomplishment, confident that her hard work and perseverance were beginning to pay off.