Leap of faith
956 Words
“YOU WHAT?”Gift’s voice echoed through the room, sharp and incredulous.
Sharon didn’t flinch. She met Gift’s gaze steadily, her own calm unshaken. "You heard me, Gift," She said evenly. Her attention shifted to Amy, who sat frozen on the couch, her wide eyes and open mouth betraying her shock.
"Babes, it's not like I said I wanted to commit suicide." Sharon added, her tone softening. "I just need you guys to support me on this plan before I bring it up with my parents."
"Support you?" Gift leaned forward, her expression a mix of disbelief and frustration. "You want us to support this idea of you running off somewhere to live like you're not rich? All because you think you'll find someone who’ll love you for you? Sharon, why would you even think of such a thing?"
Sharon sighed, already anticipating Gift’s reaction. Before her friends had arrived, she had taken the time to prepare herself. She’d showered, dressed, and gone downstairs to eat a proper meal for the first time in days. Her mother, relieved to see her out of her room, had fussed over her, ensuring the maid prepared her favorite dish. Though Sharon had apologized for her earlier behavior, her mother had brushed it off with understanding, staying home from work to keep her company.
But now, faced with her friends’ disbelief, Sharon struggled to maintain her composure.
"Gift.” Sharon began, her voice quieter now. "It's easy for you to judge. You’re engaged and planning your wedding. And Amy, you’ve been dating someone who genuinely loves you for two years. But me? Where does that leave me?"
Amy’s expression softened, the sympathy in her eyes unmistakable. "I understand where you’re coming from, but do you really think this is the best solution?"
Sharon nodded firmly. "I’ve thought about it, and yes, I think it could work."
Gift wasn’t convinced. "And what happens if you meet someone, fall for him, and then he finds out you’ve been lying about who you are? What then?"
Sharon opened her mouth to reply but found herself at a loss. She hadn’t considered that. "I. I’ll cross that bridge when I get there," she said finally, glancing at Amy for support.
Amy shrugged but gave a small nod. "Gift has a point, Sharon, but if this is something you feel you need to do, then, I guess I’m in."
Gift sighed heavily, shaking her head. "If you’re really set on this, then fine. I’ll support you too. But I’m still saying it’s a terrible idea."
A smile broke across Sharon’s face, relief washing over her. "You guys are the best. Group hug?" She opened her arms, and both girls tackled her, sending them all tumbling to the floor in laughter.
Sharon couldn’t help but feel a swell of gratitude for her friends. They’d always stood by her, no matter how wild her ideas seemed.
Later, Sharon found herself in the kitchen, asking the maid. “Lola, where are Mom and Dad?"
"In their room, ma'am." Lola replied.
Sharon made her way upstairs, stopping outside her parents’ door. She knocked cautiously, not wanting to interrupt anything. "Come in," her father’s voice called out.
Pushing the door open, Sharon stepped inside to find her parents sitting on the bed, watching TV. She offered them a nervous smile. "Good evening, Daddy, Mummy."
Her father smiled warmly. "My daughter? How are you?"
"I’m fine, Daddy.” She replied, settling onto the bed beside them. "There’s something I want to discuss with you both."
Her mother’s expression instantly turned serious. "Is something wrong? Are you okay?"
Sharon shook her head. "I’m fine, Mummy. I just. I’ve been thinking about something, and I need your support."
"Go on, child.” Her father prompted.
Taking a deep breath, Sharon explained her plan. She told them about her struggles with relationships and how she believed living away from her wealth, even temporarily, might give her the chance to meet someone who would love her for who she truly was.
When she finished, the silence in the room was deafening. Both parents stared at her, their expressions a mixture of shock and confusion.
Finally, her father spoke. "Why would you think of something like this, Sharon?"
"Daddy, I’m 25 years old. I’m not getting any younger, and this. This feels like the right thing to do.” Sharon pleaded. "Please, just let me try. Maybe it will work."
Her mother’s voice was soft but concerned. "For how long are you planning to do this?"
"Four months, maybe.” Sharon replied, unsure herself.
Her father sighed, rubbing his temples. "And what about your responsibilities? The company? I’ll be retiring soon, and you’ll need to take over."
"I know, Daddy," Sharon said earnestly. "I’ve thought about that. Bisola can fill in for me temporarily. I’ll still check in and handle important matters, but I need this time for myself."
Her parents exchanged a long look, speaking in hushed tones. Finally, her father turned back to her. "Are you certain this is what you want?"
Sharon nodded, her voice firm. "Yes, Daddy. I’m sure."
Her mother reached out, pulling Sharon into a tight embrace. "Oh, my baby, I’m going to miss you so much."
"I’ll visit whenever I can, Mummy. I promise," Sharon assured her.
Her father sighed again but gave a small nod. "If this is what you feel you need to do, then we’ll support you."
Sharon’s face lit up with a grateful smile. She leaned forward, hugging both her parents tightly. "Thank you. I love you both so much."
As she left their room that evening, a lingering thought hovered in her mind.
“I really hope you won’t regret this Sharon.”
- Writer
