SHADIYA; THE RISE AND FALL OF A RESTAURANT EMPIRE (2)

Diane stood in front of the establishment four days later. Her emotions were a mix of nervous and excited. Shadiya believed it was the best decision she could make because Mrs. Thomas had helped her family in their time of need. She was the sister her parents needed, an excellent pillar of support. Shadiya’s father had lost his job, and they were struggling to pay school fees. Her mother’s hair salon business was also not doing well, with some clients asking for credit.

Mrs. Thomas was one of the few people who had provided financial assistance to Shadiya’s parents when they needed it most. Shadiya couldn’t forget that. While the sorority had a rule about helping close friends and family, Diane was not considered as such at this point.

The other team members at the restaurant welcomed Diane. They formed a circle with Shadiya in the middle, introducing everyone.

“Meet Diane, a new protege of this company. Please make her feel welcome and show her the ropes,” Shadiya proudly announced.

Diane, a timid twenty-year-old girl, stood beside Shadiya wearing a red shirt and black pants. Her long braids were pulled back into a ponytail. The company policy required staff who were involved in food preparation to either tie their hair back or wear a net bonnet.