VESSEL

“I remember you saying you don’t stay too far, so I decided to visit. It was actually Amena’s idea.” Mena stared at the two beautiful ladies standing at her doorway and could only mumble in embarrassment. “I’m surprised you have no reply,” Amena said with a smile as she studied Mena’s shocked countenance. Mena was still wrapped in a faded sleeping scarf that struggled to contain her sharp-edged 4C puff. A toothbrush hung awkwardly from the corner of her mouth, white foam of toothpaste betraying the rush in which she had opened the door. Behind her, Papa burst into laughter. Mena instantly knew he was part of the setup. She finally gathered enough courage to step aside and let them in. She flashed Papa a knowing smile as he gently excused himself from the parlour after exchanging pleasantries with the ladies. She had been a constant ringtone in Papa’s ears lately, complaining about how bored and unhappy she felt. She had no idea how Papa arranged this surprise visit, but she was gratefu...