The next day Noni bought her mother appetite pills and fed her healthy fruits and water.

Noni – So glad you awake.

Mother – (smiles) Eyy …but I feel weak.

Noni – You’ll be fine..ok?

Mother – Thank you my child but you have

to go to school…ok?

Noni- Who’s gonna look after you?

Mother : Do me this favour…go to school.

Noni – (sighs) Ok.

Noni dressed up for school. It was exam time and she had forgotten.

It was class and they were writing a Maths 1hr paper. Noni was thinking hard about her mother then she got a harsh tap on her shoulder.It was Liyana her friend.

Liya – and then?..You done?

Noni – I…(the bell rang and the exam session was over)

At break Noni and Liya sat together on the bench.

Liya – What’s up with you?

Noni – (sighs) It’s just..

Liya – What?

Noni – Ma is sick…like it’s bad.

Liya: (waves her fingers at her) Focus on

school.

Noni – (sad) What if she…

Liya – Just stop..ok..(stands up and leaves)

Noni – Where you going?

Liya – Don’t spoil my vibe.. (leaves to the other side)

Noni runs after her and pulls her.

Liya – What ?

Noni – Please don’t leave..

Liya – Then stop talking about your home

issues.

Noni – I expected you to be a bit supportive.

Liya – This is your own battle..ok?..

They walk off as bell rang for another exam session.