I said good morning. Naomi blinked innocently. Ah, I’m sorry, sir. I was cleaning. I didn’t hear.
He leaned slightly closer. I’ve been trying to get to know you better. You never have my time.
Her voice stayed calm. I’m always busy with work, sir. I don’t want any trouble.
The word trouble stung him. Before he could respond, Benson walked past the hallway. Naomi’s face brightened instantly.
Hey Naomi, would you like to go grab lunch later? Sure, she replied with a warm smile.
Femy’s chest tightened in annoyance. She had never smiled like that at him. Never. Naomi nodded politely to both men and walked off, her mop in hand.
Femy’s jaw tightened, his ego bruised. A common cleaner had ignored him. From that moment, his jealousy slowly shifted into resentment.
He hated the way Naomi treated him like any other person instead of the manager’s son, and he hated even more that Benson was receiving the attention he couldn’t get.
The next morning, Fei called Naomi to his office. Good morning, sir. Naomi greeted softly, bowing her head.
“Morning, my dear,” he replied, smiling. “Naomi, has anyone told you how beautiful you are?”
“Thank you, sir,” she answered, uncertain about where the conversation was heading. I’ve been watching you, Femi continued.
You’re different. You don’t talk much. You don’t throw yourself at men like the others.
Naomi stayed quiet. Femi leaned back, confidence dripping from his smile. I can give you a better life.
My father is in charge of the company. I can change your life in a heartbeat, you know.
She looked at him confused. I have the power to control everything. The board listens to me.
The staff obey me. He pressed on. If you stay close to me, your life will change.
I’ll make them increase your salary, buy you better clothes, and you won’t have to suffer again.
Naomi remained steady. Thank you, sir. But I’m not interested. Femi frowned. You think I’m lying?
You don’t believe I can take care of you. It’s not about belief, she said gently.
I’m just not interested. He laughed coldly. So, you prefer to clean toilets, wear secondhand clothes, and eat plain food for the rest of your life.
Naomi stood up. It’s better than pretending to love someone for their money. She walked out of his office, leaving him stunned and angry.
From that day on, he began treating her harshly. He piled more work on her, spoke to her with coldness, but Naomi didn’t waver.
She continued working with quiet dignity. From the corner, Benson noticed everything, every look. Femi gave her every time she walked out of his office holding her dignity like a crown.
Later that day, Naomi was taking a break in the hallway and Benson walked up to her.
“Are you okay?” He asked. She smiled lightly. “Yes.” “Why? You look tired.” “I’m fine,” she said.
“I just had a long day.” Benson hesitated. “I saw you give away your food earlier today.
What will you eat?” “I’ll be fine,” she replied softly. There’s something peaceful about giving.
Not everyone is privileged to have even one plate of food a day. Since God has given me that privilege, why not share with others, no matter how little?
He looked at her with admiration. He sensed she was hiding something deep, but he had no right to judge.
“You have a heart of gold,” he said. She chuckled. “You sound like someone who knows me better than I know myself.”
