chapter 2: A Dream Takes flight

Chapter Two: A Dream Takes Flight

The smell of jollof rice and fried plantain filled the Mensah family's living room, but Rita barely noticed. Her mind was consumed with excitement.

She rushed in, holding up her phone. "Mom! Dad! You won't believe what I just found!"

Her mother, a petite woman with a firm but kind face, looked up from the dining table. "What is it this time, Rita?"

Rita took a deep breath. "It's an online pageant! The Sunshine Pageantry! They're offering a huge cash prize and the chance to become a national ambassador. And I've applied!"

Her father, Mr. Mensah, set down his newspaper and adjusted his glasses. "Fame and fortune?" He gave a skeptical chuckle. "Sounds too good to be true."

Rita's excitement faltered. "No, Dad, it's real. They have photos of past winners, and the prize package is amazing!"

Her younger brother, Kwame, snickered from the couch. "Are you going to be the next Miss Ghana?"

Rita threw a pillow at him. "Maybe."

Her mother sighed, wiping her hands on a napkin. "Sweetheart, just be careful. The internet is full of scams."

"I know, Mom," Rita assured her. "But this could be my big break."

Mr. Mensah gave a slow nod. "Fine. Just be smart about it."

That was all the permission needed.