Precious and Favour have always been inseparable, their bond as close as sisters. They share secrets, dreams, and the quiet hope of someday exploring the world beyond their village. However, beneath Favour’s warm smile, a shadow of envy lingers each time the teacher praises Precious’s perfect scores. "Why is it always you at the top, Precious? Don't you ever wish I could win, just once?" "You work just as hard, Favour. Maybe next time, we'll both win."

Pens scratch nervously across paper as Precious and Favour pour their hearts into Science, Mathematics, and English. Outside, the world seems to hold its breath, awaiting the outcome. When the bell finally rings, the students file out, their faces a mix of anxiety and hope.

Favour squeezes Precious’s hand, heart pounding. The names are read: Precious is first, Favour second. The grand prize—a ticket to America—goes to Precious. "Congratulations, Precious. You deserve it," she says, forcing a smile, but her voice trembles with disappointment.

Favour[/@ch_2] sits alone in her small room, the walls lined with childhood drawings. On her desk, she stares at an old, dusty book of remedies, her mind racing with regret and envy.] The next exam week approaches. Desperate, Favour hatches a plan—she remembers a medicine that can cause mild illness, enough to keep Precious home. She procures the medicine, unaware of its hidden dangers. "Just a little... just enough for her to miss a test. That’s all," she whispers to herself, the bottle trembling in her hand.

Precious[/@ch_1] laughs with friends, unaware as Favour stirs the medicine into her food.] Precious eats, trusting and grateful. But by the next day, she falls ill—her skin pale, her breath shallow. The village doctor visits, worry lines creasing his brow. Within a week, the classroom has grown quieter, and Precious’s desk sits empty.

Precious[/@ch_1]’s passing spreads. Her parents, heartbroken, call for an investigation; sorrow settles over the school and the village square.] Favour is questioned, her guilt mounting with every word. When the truth is revealed, she breaks down, tears streaking her cheeks as she confesses. "I didn't mean to kill her... I just wanted a chance. Just one chance," she sobs, the weight of her actions crashing down.

The teacher gathers the class, voice trembling as she speaks of jealousy and the true meaning of friendship. The empty desk remains, a silent reminder that envy can destroy even the strongest bonds, and that the friends we choose may shape our destinies.