Chapter 23

The day's final bell echoed through the halls of International school, a sharp clang that unleashed a flood of students eager to escape the confines of classrooms. Backpacks slung over shoulders, sneakers squeaked against polished floors, and laughter mingled with the hum of anticipation.

For most, it was the start of the weekend. For Tony Ogbeifun, it was the beginning of something far more complicated. Tony lingered behind, weaving through the thinning crowd toward the boys’ restroom. He needed a moment to himself before the long walk home.

The fluorescent lights buzzed faintly as he pushed open the heavy door, the faint scent of industrial cleaner hitting him. But what he saw inside stopped him cold. Rex Samson stood before the cracked mirror, his broad shoulders tense, a small plastic sachet dangling from his fingers. Clinging to him from behind was Anita Tsemaye, her arms wrapped around his waist, her chin resting on his shoulder.