Chapter Twenty-Nine

'I'm not trying to jinx it. I just don't want you to constantly worry. It might give you a headache,' Beatrice explained. She set the iron down and straightened the shirt on the ironing table. 'I once dreamed of becoming a doctor, but I ended up as a small shop owner. When I married your father, he wanted to send me back to school to fulfill my dream, but then I got pregnant with your brother. I had to give up on my dream and dedicated it to both of you. That's why you shouldn't worry too much and believe that even if you don't win any of the challenges; your parents will find a way.' Beatrice looked at Dera and continued, 'So, try not to overthink it. You might make yourself sick. But you can also imagine the things you'd do with the money if you win. It's all right to be hopeful, just don't let worry consume you.'

Tears welled up in Dera's eyes, and she had to blink hard to hold them back. 'It's never too late to fulfill your dreams, Mum.'

'I've already given them all to you and your brother,' Beatrice smiled. 'Make me proud, and I will be satisfied. But don't put too much pressure on yourself.'

Dera turned to her father, who was sitting in the shade of a tree. 'Dad, why didn't you insist on mum pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor?'

'Honey, it wasn't you who made me give it up. Please, tell our daughter the truth,' Beatrice asserted firmly, her voice filled with conviction. She wanted Dera to truly understand that Emeka was not responsible for her decision to let go of her dream of becoming a doctor after their marriage. It was a choice she had made independently, driven by her strong desire to prioritise the well-being and care of their family.

Emeka smiled, lowering the newspaper he had been reading. 'I'm sorry, Dera. Your mother sacrificed her dreams for you and your brother. You can repay us by not giving up on your own dreams, okay?'

'I will do that,' Dera assured them.

'I am proud of you,' Beatrice said, smoothing the iron over Emeka's shirt. 'Now, go and help your brother in the shop, or you can go to your room and study. If you stay idle, you might end up overthinking. I don't want you to get sick.'

Dera nodded and walked away from the backyard. She grabbed her jacket and headed to the shop to assist Andrew.