"Well, that was something," Nnenna said, breaking the silence.
"You handled that beautifully," Adanna added, giving Olaedo an approving nod.
Olaedo let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "I just… I didn't expect to see her here. Or her husband."
Adanna frowned slightly, her sharp mind already analyzing the situation. "Her husband's interest in you wasn't subtle. Be careful, Olaedo. Men like him are dangerous."
"I know," Olaedo said quietly. "But I'm not the same girl I used to be. I can handle myself."
The manager returned, holding the shoes in a pristine box. "These are yours, Miss Olaedo. On behalf of the store, I apologize for the inconvenience."
"Thank you," Olaedo said with a polite smile, taking the box.
As they left the store, the whispers followed them, but this time, they were filled with admiration.
"Did you see how she put Lydia in her place?"
"That Miss Arinze is no joke. I wouldn't want to cross her."
