Climbing the Corporate Ladder – Safe Spaces

I was torn between telling her all i had learned during this period of my internship and keeping things to myself. After all She literally raised me alongside dad and grandpa. I have always confided in her and there is literally nothing I have withheld from her but not today. She deceived me about how the world works. I think Aba is a better confidant than she is. “Talk to me, my love. You make me worry. You can tell me anything at all and i will help you i a heartbeat. What is eating you up? Do you need money, advice, anything?” she pressed. “No Aunty, I am good, but i will take the money if it will make you feel better.” I said in just as we both broke into laughter. “So will I” grandpa chimed in as he walked toward us. Aunty Fafa pulled me into a tight hug, arms wrapped around me as though i were still a baby and wispered “You can tell me anything, honey. I love you soo much” her voice breaking as though holding back tears.

“Fafaaa, I know you miss your best friend and want to be there for your niece. Sika would be happy and proud of you for all you do for her but you will not be able to shield her forever. There are things she would have to handle on her own as an adult.” Grandpa said to her while rubbing her back. “I know but i want to help” she said while still holding on tightly.

You have done enough, just give her space, she’ll come to you willingly and you can shower her with all the help you have to offer.

Finally she loosened her grip and carresssed my face in her arms, looking into my eyes with so much pain and obsession she said calmly, “you look so much like your mother”.