You want wealth. I can give it. I can make you rich beyond what your eyes have ever seen. Cars, houses, women, influence. You will shine. But," he paused, letting the word settle, "nothing comes without a price."
Baba Adigun did not rise to greet them. He remained seated on the earth, legs crossed, hands folded in his lap, eyes as dark and still as the forest shadows. The boys could feel the weight of his gaze piercing through them, weighing their intentions, their hearts, and even their loves.
"Sit," he said finally, his voice calm yet carrying authority. The boys obeyed, sitting on the damp earth. Leaves rustled above them. Somewhere, a bird cried—sharp, lonely.
"You are desperate," Baba Adigun began. "Desperate men bring their hearts to me. You want wealth. I can give it. I can make you rich beyond what your eyes have ever seen. Cars, houses, women, influence. You will shine. But," he paused, letting the word settle, "nothing comes without a price."
Adewale's