CHAPTER 9:Jealousy in Gold and Beads

 Shawn began to take a more active role in their lives. He helped care for Tiana from time to time and even accompanied Naledi to Lincoln's games, which visibly lifted Lincoln's spirits. Meanwhile, Margaret remained on the outside—they had made it clear that she was not welcome in their lives anymore.

Naledi found herself wondering if maybe, just maybe, things could truly change for the better. But even as she held onto that hope, she saw that some things stayed the same.

A few months later, Aaron and Melissa's wedding was drawing near. By then, Tiana had turned one, and the family was invited to attend the celebration as guests. Wanting to honor her heritage, Naledi decided to wear traditional attire. She visited a tailor, explained her vision, and left feeling excited. The final result was everything she had imagined. She adorned herself with a gold necklace, several rings, and a headpiece of red and white beads.

She looked radiant, so much so that she outshone the bride, and Melissa noticed. Compliments poured in from guests who were captivated by Naledi's look. When asked about her inspiration, she beamed with pride and shared that it was rooted in her culture. However, not everyone was kind. Most of Melissa's friends turned cold, openly criticizing her appearance and body. But they quickly quieted when Shawn shot them a stern glare.

Later that evening, Melissa conspired with Shawn's mother, Margaret, to humiliate Naledi during the reception. They targeted her weight and even went so far as to call her a gold digger. The cruelty of their words stung deeply. Naledi couldn't hold back the tears. Humiliated and heartbroken, she ran out of the venue.

Alice, witnessing the entire ordeal, stepped in and confronted Melissa and Margaret. She made it clear how wrong their actions were. Shawn's reaction was more silent but just as powerful—he cut off all communication with them. That silence from Shawn hurt Melissa more than any confrontation ever could.

That night shifted something in Naledi. She realized she needed to stand on her own. Without a college education, job opportunities were limited. Determined to change her future, she enrolled in online courses. Shawn supported her, finding her determination endearing. She also began frequenting the local library—an escape, a sanctuary, a new beginning.

And it was there, in the quiet aisles lined with books, that she met someone who would change her life forever.