~Alisa~

_ Making rainbows in the thunderstorms _
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"Good morning!" Kambili chirped, the moment she came down for breakfast, dressed in her school uniform.

Her uniform, was a black school blazer - which had the school badge sewn to the breast pocket - draped  over a white dress shirt, which was tucked into her skirt. A black neck tie was tied around her collar and she wore a black knee-length, pleated skirt with ankle-length, black socks and a black pair of well-polished dress shoes.

"Good morning," I returned, with a small smile on my face.

She beamed, hurriedly grabbing a seat next to me and sitting on it. I grinned at her, and she did same as she helped herself with some toasted bread.

We were halfway through our breakfast, when Kamsi finally came downstairs, his cold-as-ice look was still plastered on his face as he sat down to eat. He murmured a greeting to his parents, before trying to reach for some toasted bread. He couldn't reach it, so I got up and handed it to him with a smile on my face.

The minute his eyes landed on mine, a scowl formed on his lips and he got up and reached for another bread himself, thereby ignoring me. I felt stupid, with my outstretched hand still holding the plate of toasted bread. Slowly, I gulped down my embarrassment and sat down on my seat, with Kambili offering a sympathetic smile.

"That's how he is. I'm sure you'll get used to it soon" she whispered to me, and I nodded my head in understanding.

As I ate the rest of my breakfast, I kept stealing glances at Kamsi. I immediately knew that trying to thaw the ice in his heart, was second to impossible. He refused  looking at me - or anyone else - as he gingerly nibbled on his breakfast.

Silence enveloped us all, as we ate in total silence. Kamsi was first to get up, although he had barely eaten anything from his plate. No one said a thing to him, as he grabbed his schoolbag from his chair, and left the house.

"Bye, dad" he muttered as he left the house, totally disregarding Mrs. Ekwegh.

"Bye, son" his father returned, taking a bite out of his toast.

At the corner of my eye, I could see the hurt expression on Mrs. Ekwegh's face and I instantly lost my appetite. I got up and gathered mine and Kamsi's plate, before walking into the kitchen to put them in the sink. But not before thanking Mr. and Mrs. Ekwegh for the wonderful breakfast.

"Thank you, ma. Thank you, sir" I said and they smiled in acknowledge.

Kambili soon got up, and ran to give her father a hug, equally disregarding Mrs. Ekwegh.

"Bye, dad!" She chirped and he pecked her cheeks.

"Bye, dear" he smiled.

After letting go of him, she ran to my side and hugged me - and bade me a goodbye.

"Bye" I smiled as she finally picked her bag from the chair, and left for school.

I excused myself afterwards and walked into the kitchen. After washing the plates, I retired to my room and lay on my bed. My eyes roamed the entire room, aimlessly. And I wondered how the rest of my days here would go. Most importantly, I kept wondering how I'd be able to help Kamsi's relationship with the family.

Now left all alone, I wondered what I'd do with my time. And I immediately decided to pick a novel, in order to pass time.

Halfway through the book, I heard a knock on the door and I hollered a, "Come in!"

The door finally cracked open, and in came Mrs. Ekwegh. On seeing her smiling face, a smile stretched across my face as I immediately sat up on my bed.

"I see you're reading" she said, slowly closing the door behind her and walking into the room.

"Yes, ma" I replied and she nodded in understanding, as she sat beside me, on my bed.

"Alisa, my husband and I - pardon. I meant to say, your father and I, have been thinking about enrolling you in a school. We aren't sure what school, yet. But we'll be visiting three schools today, along with you. So that way, you can make your choice" she smiled.

Make my choice? That's a first.

I'd never had the opportunity of choosing the school I'd like to attend. Usually, my foster parents just pick a random school and I go there without questioning their opinions. Whether I like the school or not, it doesn't matter - for I have no say.

"Wow. That's wonderful news" I smiled, the excitement in my voice must've been very evident.

"I'm glad you're excited about it. Dad won't be able to make it, since he's at work now... And since I have a few minutes to spare before I head off to work, I guess we'll be off in the next ten minutes. Will that be okay?" She said and I nodded my head affirmatively.

"Absolutely!" I replied and she nodded and got up.

"I'll be waiting for you downstairs" and with that, she excused herself.

* * *

"And this, is our Chemistry lab. It is well-equipped, with the best laboratory equipments. We provide our students with the best teaching facilities whilst ensuring their maximum comfort" the tour guide, said.

The tour guide at Jade Imperial High, was one to be admired. Her accent and fluent way of speech could leave one ogling at her, and her walking step was an extra bonus to her admirable physique. She was an average lady, with light skin and a slim body. Her hair was pulled into a tight ponytail, which brought out her pretty face, and her smokey makeup; gave her a gentle yet enticing appearance.

While she led us through the neat hallway, my eyes drifted to the students in a classroom - learning. Some of them were staring at me and passing side comments, all of which I ignored. One thing was for sure though, and that was the fact that I didn't like this school.

Sure, it's expensive with high-class facilities and whatnot, but it's not the type of school I'd like to attend. The students here seem snobbish and the teachers are all prissy and everything seems too fancy. I would like to attend a school where my style of breathing isn't questioned, and neither would my style of doing anything else. Jade Imperial High, was a school for the rich - those born with gold spoons in their mouths and pampered with adequate luxury. It wasn't a school for people like me, who weren't raised with the kind of luxury they were often dished on a daily basis.

Unlike they are, I've struggled through life and I haven't tasted the good side of life... Up until now. Definitely, I was awed at the school's infrastructure as well as their coordination and organisation, but that didn't mean I was hoping to attend this school.

Every nook and cranny of this school, reeked of hardcore cash, and judging eyes lurked at every corner. I observed as students passed side comments and snickered. I wouldn't blame them, for they weren't used to seeing girls like me - who weren't of their class nor category - waltz into their school.

Luckily, I'd chosen to dress in the clothes given to me by my foster parents. A lavender hoodie and black jean shorts, which had a zigzag design done with a white lace - at both sides. My hair, as usual, was up in its usual imperfect bun - which I'd done by myself. Jade Imperial High - being the third school we'd attended today - was not the school I'd like to attend nor would I like to be here any longer.

Those kids could snicker all they want, my mind and heart had already crossed this school out of my list. I wasn't going here, and that was my final decision.

All along, the lady continued to blab, showing off her well-polished and affluent way of speaking. She kept using large words that my brain could barely process, words I was sure could land a person in a coma. I zoned off as she kept talking and I didn't have the time to listen cause I kept interesting myself by staring and admiring some of the students. Their uniform was stunning. It comprised of a blue school blazer over a white dress shirt, and a black tie hung on their neck.

For the senior secondary school boys, they wore black khaki trousers, while the juniors wore shorts. Meanwhile, the senior secondary school girls, wore black knee-length pleated skirts while the junior girls wore black pinafores.

I noticed that some students weren't putting on their blazers. Some had long-sleeved dress shirts - which I presumed was for the seniors. While other students - who looked quite younger and rather looked like juniors - wore short-sleeved dress shirts.

"That will be all. This marks the end of our touring session" said the lady, as a big smile formed on her lips.

"Thank you so much" grinned Mrs. Ekwegh.

I said nothing, and smiled instead.

"You're welcome" she said, and led the way back to the Administration Department. Mrs. Ekwegh exchanged a few words with the principal and afterwards, we got up to leave.

The minute we got to the car. She asked of my opinion of the school. I'd been waiting for that question, so I wasted no time in replying - making sure not to say something out of place.

"It's a really good school, I must say. They have wonderful facilities, and unlike my old school was; these people are coordinated," I started. "But... I honestly do not want to go here" I replied, truthfully.

I watched as a curious look came over her face.

"Really? And why is that?" She asked and I bit my lip, not sure if it'd be right to give my reply.

"In all honesty, I find this school too fancy for me and the students; snobbish. It's true that it's a prestigious school, and a person would be insane to decline such an offer, but it is also true that I won't be comfortable with attending such a school. If it's not too much, I'd rather prefer to attend a school which is much cheaper. I'm not used to all these luxuries..." I paused, to see if she was angry at my reply - thankfully, she wasn't. And with that, I continued.

"I think I'll be much more comfortable with an environment which I'm more accustomed to and can relate better. With students who wouldn't treat me unfairly. I'm so grateful that you asked of my opinion in this matter, ma. I'm grateful for that, and I hope you'll consider my opinion too" I said, and I watched as a smile formed on her lips and she nodded her head in understanding.

"You're a really... Intellectual girl. I love the way you think," she said and I smiled. "And if it's what you want, then we'll find a much cheaper and better school. I would've suggested that you attend Kamsi's and Kambili's school... But I know Kamsi wouldn't approve of that. And plus, their school is just like this one" she explained and I nodded in understanding.

"Thank you so much, ma" I smiled and she grinned.

We both got into the car and she ordered the driver to take us to a school called: Prestige High. She explained that the school was much cheaper than Jade Imperial High, and also had good learning facilities. She further explained, that they had a skyrocketing educational performance and equally had quality teachers as well as a child-friendly environment.

Their academic system was equally up-to-date and their students were known to excel in their fields of study, as well as produce excellent results at State Competitions. With all she explained, I instantly had a good feeling about this school. I also hoped all she'd said about the school, were true.

A school like that, would really do me some good. Unlike my previous school - Divine Mercy Highschool - this school seemed promising. A rush of confidence and hope filled me, and my heart swelled with gratitude towards this kind woman. In all my years of meeting various foster mothers, she was - so far - my favorite one yet. And I was more than happy about that.

Soon, the driver approached a tall, blue gate. Above the gate - and written in bold white letters - were the words: 'Prestige High'. I smiled to myself as the driver blared the horn. He waited till the gate man opened the gate, before he finally rode the car into the school's building.

The minute we got down from the car, I decided to take a minute to take in the wonderful scenery before me. The Administration Department, was the first building in sight. It was a maroon colored building, with an amazing exterior. Flowers of many kinds, adorned the frontal area of the building. And the grounds were covered by carpet grass. Above the building, hung a sign board with the words: 'Administration Department' boldly written on it - in white letterings. Further to the right, stood a large open field which had been divided into sections. The first section, was the basketball court. The second section, was the football court - and it was much wider than the basketball court and appeared to be the widest. The third section, was the lawn tennis court. The fourth section, was the volleyball court. And last but not least, the fifth court; was the badminton court.

Mrs. Ekwegh lightly left a tap on my shoulder, snapping me out of my daze, and I immediately offered a nervous smile and followed her into the Administration Department. Once inside, she demanded to see the principal - but in a polite manner - and without any further dawdling, the secretary quickly ushered us to a chair, and immediately called for the principal.

It seemed to me that Mrs. Ekwegh was well-known here. Given the fact that she was being offered special treatment. The secretary basically left the other people, who had been there before us, and hurriedly attended to us - in fright that she might lose her job, or possibly, her life - if she didn't.

Mrs. Ekwegh had a calm look on her face, as we both sat in silence - waiting for the principal to show up. Finally, he called for us and we both arose and walked into the office.

His office was air conditioned and had an eye-catching interior. A tall vase, was right next to his deep brown, mahogany desk. The entire walls of his office, were covered in an off-white paint and the floors were almost exactly the same color as the walls. His cream colored curtains were draped to the side, allowing just about enough sunlight into the room.

The principal - who happened to be a light skinned, robust man in his mid-thirties - was seated on a swivel chair, and a bright smile adorned his lips as he quickly urged us to take a seat. We immediately sat down at the visitors' chair, and Mrs. Ekwegh began speaking with him.

"Mrs. Ekwegh, I am most delighted to have you welcomed in my office. Such a prestigious woman like yourself, has made my day by making your presence known in our school. I'm honored" he said, in a flattery tone that made my tummy churn in disapproval.

He praised her like she were God Himself. His behavior only showed how low self-esteemed he was.

I'm surprised he didn't lick her feet in the process. He might as well have called his ancestors to join him in worship of her.

"No need for all that, sir. I'm human just like you are. Although, I am thrilled that you're happy to see me. For that, I am equally grateful" her reply was one that I admired. It only showed that she was a humble woman. A woman that didn't raise her shoulders so much - like you'd see some rich women do.

Most rich and influential women in her shoes, would've taken so much delight in the robust man's flattery, hungry for more sugar-coated lies spat out from his mouth. Instead, she did the opposite, thereby boosting the respect I had for her.

"Well, I must praise you for your good works, ma'am. Your foundation has really helped in eradicating poverty and hunger in our State. It has given this country a ray of hope. Philanthropists, like yourself, are really difficult to find these days" he further coaxed.

I'm literally about to barf. His sickly sweet words are capable of grossing me out.

The fact that he was trying so hard to seem like an amazing person, was making my head ache from the over excessive nonsense he was saying. Truly, I'm sure she's a wonderful person and a kind-hearted philanthropist at that, but him spitting such flattery words at her - ever so foolishly - only made me aware of his intentions. Of course, his maxi-sized palms were itching to receive a handsome tip from her.

A cunning desperado, I presume.

"Thank you. But that's by the way, we're here 'cause I'd like to enroll my daughter in this school. She says she likes it" she said and the man's eyes brightened. His enthusiasm doubled and his grin, tripled. I smiled at the fact that she referred to me as her daughter. That warmed my heart.

Staring at me, he said; "Oh really? What is it that you love the most about our school?" He asked and I fought the urge to cough, due to the intensity of his gaze.

Mister, my own is that I like your school. I didn't say I came to buy it.

"It's a good school, with amazing academic standards" was my simple reply.

"Indeed. I'm sure you'll love it here. The students are equally friendly" he grinned at me, and I grinned back.

"Sir, if it's not too much, we will like to have a tour of the school" Mrs. Ekwegh said, and his greed-stuffed eyes, returned to hers. His ears stood at attention, and he immediately offered a huge smile.

"Why, of course!" He grinned again, "Tina! Tina, please come into my office!" He called, for his secretary - I presumed.

The minute the door came open, the plump, dark skinned secretary, came in.

"Yes, sir?" She said, the minute she walked into the office.

"Please send for Mr. Tunde" he said, and she nodded her head and left.

To us, the principal said: "Can I get you both anything? Like refreshments? Anything at all?" He asked.

How about your silence?

"No, thank you" came Mrs. Ekwegh's soft voice.

"What about you, dear? You don't seem to talk much" he said to me, and I offered a genuine grin. He clearly didn't know who I was, anyone who did know me, knew that I wasn't a quiet person. I tend to be quiet, when I feel like it. And right now, I didn't feel like saying anything.

"I don't need anything. Thank you" I said and he grinned again.

"What's you name?" He asked.

"Alisa"

"That's a beautiful name" he grinned.

"Thank you" I grinned back.

This was getting awkward real quick.

Mr. Tunde, hurry up and save me from this misery!

Right on cue, the door came open and the supposed Mr. Tunde finally came in.

"Good afternoon, sir" he said to the principal. And to Mrs. Ekwegh, he nearly prostrated in greeting, as his eyes widened in recognition.

"Ah, good afternoon, ma" he greeted, like his life depended on it. His behavior nearly ripped out a chuckle from my mouth, but I seized it by bitting on my lower lip.

"Good afternoon, sir" I greeted and he smiled at me, his eyes dancing with excitement.

"Afternoon, dear" Mrs. Ekwegh replied him and he grinned toothily at her.

"Mr. Tunde, I'd like you to give them a tour of the school. Please enlighten them properly" the principal said, and Mr. Tunde nodded in understanding and led the way out of the office.

I heaved a tired sigh, the minute we walked out of the office. As expected, Mrs. Ekwegh dipped her hand into her purse, and offered the principal a robust-looking amount of money. His greedy eyes doubled in size - at the amount she offered him. And once again, he behaved like a lapdog, singing praises to her.

He might as well shut up now. He has already gotten what he wants.

We left his office, and headed for the school block.

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That principal can sha do over sabi🙄 That kine thing use to vex me.
Anyway, I hope you guys enjoyed the chapter.

Who do you guys want me to throw more light on? Do you guys want more of Alisa alone? Or more of Kamsi?

I'm so excited to know what y'all are thinking. So far, how's the story? I hope it isn't boring. Please let me know, so I can fix anything that needs fixing.

Also, please support me by voting on this chapter if you liked it. If you feel like encouraging me, then please make that star shine bright like a diamond 🤭
Please don't forget to leave a comment as well!✨

Love you guys.
Next update: Friday.
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