Chapter 13: The Breaking Point
287 Words
The open field was quiet except for the hum of distant traffic and the sound of tension snapping like glass.
Ajoke stared at Taye, jaw clenched. “Say something.”
Ada gasped, eyes wide. “Oh my goodness—what is that?” Her voice cracked, and then she burst into tears.
She turned sharply. “Ajoke, we need to go. Now.”
Taye’s voice was hoarse. “No… it’s not safe out there.”
Ada flared. “And it’s safe with you?” Her hand shook as she pulled out her phone. “I’m calling the police.”
Ajoke grabbed her arm. “No, wait. Let’s understand the situation.”
Ada turned on her. “Coming to your house was the worst decision I’ve ever made!”
She stormed off.
Ajoke stood frozen, pain spreading across her face.
She turned, entered her car.
Taye took a step forward, his voice breaking. “Please… I need your help.”
Ajoke stopped, startled. She hadn’t expected that vulnerability. She looked at his trembling hands, the weakness in his eyes.
“My help?” she repeated. “After endangering my life? Ruining my friendship?”
Taye tried to speak, but she slammed the door and drove off.
He stood alone, pain flickering in his eyes—but no screams, no sobs. Only silence and the tears of a man who'd learned to swallow suffering.
Then—
A familiar voice. Sharp. Angry.
“I hate you,” Ajoke said from behind the wheel. “But saving lives is my job.”
She pushed the door open. “Get in.”
Taye blinked.
A hint of a smile—exhausted, broken—played on his face as he entered the car.
- Writer
