They Promised Loyalty, Love, and Support in Every Way, She Says, But When I Needed Them the Most, I Found Out They Were Secretly Working With My Enemies, Using My Trust Against Me, and Enjoying Every Moment of My Pain Without Remorse
My name is Lilian Wanjiru, and for many years, I believed that loyalty was proven by words spoken in difficult times. I lived in Thika town, where I ran a modest but respected clothing boutique near the main market. The people closest to me were not strangers; they were friends and relatives who constantly reminded me that they were on my side. They promised support, protection, and love in every situation. I trusted them because they sounded sincere, and because I believed no one could fake care for so long.
When my business began to grow, I involved them more. I shared my plans, my suppliers, and even my fears about competition. I spoke openly, believing honesty would strengthen our bond. During hard moments, they comforted me, telling me they would never abandon me. I did not know that behind those comforting words, they were building relationships with people who secretly wanted to see me fail. The same mouths that prayed for my success were feeding my enemies information.
The betrayal revealed itself slowly. Customers started mentioning things about my business that I had never made public. Competitors copied my designs and undercut my prices before I even launched new stock. Rumors spread that I was dishonest and struggling financially. I felt confused and exposed. Each time I raised concerns, the people I trusted laughed it off and told me I was overthinking. I believed them, not knowing they were enjoying how powerless I felt.
