Chapter 2 Title: "Threads of Consequen
Morning light spilled through the cracks in her shutters, but Amina couldn't eat. Her mind replayed the previous night: the man's fixed stare, the client's trembling voice, the subtle, impossible energy she'd felt while sewing.
What is this power? she wondered. And why me?
Before she could dwell further, a knock sounded at the door. She opened it to find a young man, timid, clutching a note. His eyes darted nervously.
"I… I heard you make dresses that… um… change things?" he stammered.
Amina's pulse quickened. How are people already talking? I didn't tell anyone!
He handed her the note. "People say the tailor in Ajegunle… can make people notice you, protect you, fix your luck."
Amina swallowed hard. Her fingers itched to sew, to test herself,but this wasn't just about appearances anymore.
"Sit," she said finally. "Tell me what you want."
He explained: his sister was sick, his family struggling, and he wanted… protection, hope, something tangible to keep misfortune away. Amina felt a pang in her chest.
I can do this. But… what will it cost me?
She began sewing. Every stitch was careful, deliberate. Thread slipped through her fingers like liquid silver, humming softly. She focused all her thoughts on the wish he carried,the need, the fear, the hope. Hours passed.
When she finished, she held the garment up. It looked ordinary to anyone else. But Amina knew better: it thrummed with energy, alive, responsive to her intent.
The young man's eyes filled with tears. "Thank you," he whispered.
Amina sat back, chest tight. Every time I do this, it's like giving away a part of myself. Memories of her childhood flickered,her mother's laughter, lullabies that had long faded. Every stitch drew from her soul.
She realized, for the first time, that this power was a gift, yes,but dangerous. And somewhere, in the shadows of Lagos, she could feel eyes watching her.