CHAPTER 1
Emily rushed to the hospital, her heart racing with worry. She had just received news that her father was critically ill and needed a heart transplant. She burst into the waiting room, where her family was gathered. Her mother, brother, and sister looked up at her with tears in their eyes.
Emily's mother stood up, embracing her tightly. "Thank God you're here," she whispered. "Your father is in the room, the doctor is with him now. He'll come out in a few minutes to talk to us."
Emily nodded, her anxiety growing. After what felt like an eternity, the doctor emerged from the room.
"I'm afraid the situation is critical," the doctor said, his expression somber. "Your father requires a heart transplant within the next five days. The cost is 20 million naira."
Emily's mother's face crumpled, and she burst into tears. Emily quickly wrapped her arms around her, holding her close. "Mom, it's going to be okay," she whispered. "We'll figure something out. We'll get through this together."
The next day, Emily visited her manager, Mr. Johnson, at her workplace. She explained her father's situation and asked for permission to take some time off to care for him. Mr. Johnson's expression turned somber, and he rubbed his temples.
"Emily, I'm so sorry to hear that," he said, his voice filled with empathy. "Your father is a good man, and I'll do everything I can to support you. However, I have to consider the workload and the team's needs. I can give you a week off, but after that, we'll need to discuss arrangements."
Emily felt a pang of worry. A week might not be enough time to save her father's life. "Thank you, Mr. Johnson," she said, trying to hide her concern. "I'll make sure to catch up on my work as soon as possible."
Mr. Johnson nodded. "I know you're a dedicated employee, Emily. Just take care of your father and yourself. We'll work something out."
As Emily left the office, she felt a sense of determination wash over her. She would do everything in her power to save her father's life, even if it meant juggling her work and personal life.She thought about the hospital bill and wondered how she would come up with the money.
She walked out of the office building, the bright sunlight a stark contrast to the darkness that had settled in her heart. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the challenges ahead.