A steep learning curve

Chidinma hadn't been joking. Not only did she never repeat anything she said, but the little information she did share was delivered so quickly and offhandedly that it seemed like she deliberately wanted me to fail. And fail and stumble I did, repeatedly, during my first week.

With very little training, I'd been thrown into the deep end, struggling to keep up with the numerous requisitions, reports, and paperwork I was expected to deliver. It was Ken, another member of the team, who patiently explained the processes to me and answered my many questions. I appreciated his help, as Grace's work was different from mine, and she couldn't assist me with the specifics.

But the challenges at work were only half the battle. The incessant phone calls from Segun, who seemed to be using different numbers every time, were driving me crazy.

The weekend finally arrived, and I was thrilled to spend time with Nana. We chatted about everything and nothing, and for a while, it took my mind off the troubles that had been weighing on me.

As we sat in a restaurant, sipping apple juice and waiting for our food, I confided in Nana about Segun's persistent calls. "He's been blowing up my phone for weeks, and I don't know what to do about it."

Nana snickered. "That guy just doesn't know when to back off, does he?"

I shook my head. "I keep blocking the different numbers he calls from, but he just won't give up."

Nana's expression turned serious. "Girl, it's time to get a new SIM card."

I hesitated. "I don't know...my SIM card has all my contacts and work stuff on it."

Nana understood my concerns. "I get it, but take it easy, alright? Don't let that silly goat Segun get to you. After what he did, he still has the nerve to want you back."

I let out a deep sigh, feeling a mix of frustration and sadness.

Nana smiled mischievously. "Let's make enough money so we can go on vacation and forget our troubles, okay?"

I grinned, feeling a spark of excitement. "That sounds like a plan! Somewhere beautiful, with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters."

Nana's eyes lit up. "Exactly! We can leave our worries behind and just relax. No Segun, no work stress...just us, the sun, and the sea."

I nodded enthusiastically, already imagining the getaway. "Let's do it! We can start saving up and planning our dream vacation."

Nana's expression turned concerned. "Hope they're treating you well in that company?

I shrugged, it's okay I guess.

Nana's face lit up with a fierce grin. "If anyone gives you tough time, just put call Nana, Dey for you any day, any time!" she said in Nigerian slang.

I burst out laughing, tears forming at the corners of my eyes. Nana's bold and playful demeanor was infectious, and I felt a wave of gratitude towards her for being such a loyal and supportive friend.

Trust you to always deliver, ruffian " I said, still chuckling. "This is the only real laugh I've had in weeks."

Nana's expression softened, and she reached out to squeeze my hand. "Anytime, dear. Laughter is the best medicine, after all."

"Suzzie, is that you?" I turned to see who was calling my name, and my eyes widened in surprise as I saw Sarah, Segun's older sister, walking towards me with a warm smile.

"Oh my goodness, Sarah! It's so great to see you!" We hugged, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Sarah and I had been close when I was dating Segun, but after the breakup, we lost touch.

"Girl, how long has it been?" Sarah asked, holding me at arm's length to examine me. "Every time I asked Segun about you, he'd say he hadn't heard from you."

I shrugged, feeling a bit uncomfortable. "I'm sorry about what he put you through," Sarah said, her expression sympathetic. "Segun can be a real pain in the ass. I didn't support him hitting you or cheating on you multiple times."

I forced a smile, not wanting to dwell on the past. "That's fine," I said, scratching my head.

Sarah's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Oh, this is my best friend Nana," I said, making introductions. "Nana, this is Sarah, Segun's sister."

The two exchanged warm greetings before Sarah turned back to me. "So, what's up with you, Susan? How are you doing, and how's your family?"

"We're good, and yours?" I replied.

Sarah grinned mischievously. "We're fine. I have a hot date, and he should be here any minute now." She winked, and I couldn't help but laugh.

"You're still the same, turning boys' heads!" I teased.

Sarah chuckled. "Please, I'm getting old!" "33 is no joke," Sarah said with a grin. "Besides, I'll be leaving for Abuja next month. I got a job there, so I need to groove a little before I leave."

I congratulated her, "Oh, that's great! Congratulations."

Sarah beamed with pride. "Thank you. What about you? What do you do? Do you still teach?"

I shook my head. "No, I quit three months ago. I'm currently working at Aderiola and Co."

Sarah piped up in Nigerian slang, "Aderiola and Co? Suzzie, you be big fish now ooo!"

I laughed, feeling a bit embarrassed but also proud of my new job.

Sarah congratulated me and then excused herself, saying, "Congratulations, oh, there's my date. I should better go now and not spoil you girls' time."

I bid her farewell, "Sarah, it was nice seeing you. Have a good day."

Sarah smiled and replied, "It was nice seeing you too, Susan. Please say hello to your mom and siblings for me." And please stay I touch and call me anytime.

Okay I will" I replied with a friendly smile.

As Sarah walked away to join her date, Nana turned to me and said with a chuckle, "That girl talks too much."

I laughed and defended Sarah, "Oh, Nana, please. Sarah is just the bubbly type."

Nana smiled and nodded in agreement. "She sure is."

We continued our conversation, enjoying each other's company, before Sarah had interrupted us.

Few weeks passed, and I was starting to feel more at ease at work. I had begun to grasp "the ropes" and understand what was expected of me. Although some colleagues still looked down on me, believing my Nigerian polytechnic qualification and humble attire made me unworthy, others were kind, friendly, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

I gravitated towards these supportive individuals, avoiding those who seemed determined to erode my self-esteem. Ironically, as time went on, I discovered that many of the condescending ones, particularly Chidinma, weren't as intelligent as they thought they were.

I realized that Chidinma's rapid-fire teaching style was often a facade, hiding her own lack of understanding. She relied heavily on her subordinates to do the actual work. With Jubril's guidance, by the end of my second week, I was already capable of handling more responsibilities than Chidinma herself.