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I knew Jerks existed in this world far and beyond but I didn't know even a pale old woman could use herself as bait to satisfy the den. And here I was trying to help.

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Mama poked her head inside the kitchen with her flared nostrils like that of a pig. We all stared calmly at her. Her eyes ran to the gas cookers and then the steamy pot of rice I had dropped on the table to allow it cool for dishing. Behind our masks was that mischievous smile that threatened to burst our face open. "Did I perceive the rice burning?"

"Mom, you perceived wrong." Adaobi...