DIAMOND LIGHTS

CHAPTER ONE

The blue, cloudless skies stretched endlessly over Nairobi, the warm, radiant sun beating down on the concrete jungle below. Tall buildings and skyscrapers cast long shadows that swallowed the few remaining trees, yet not all green had surrendered. Down Kimathi Street, the purple bloom of jacaranda trees fought back, their canopy forming a vibrant strip over the tarmacked road. Well-pruned hedges lined the way, guiding the eye toward Boma Dome—a hidden oasis where manicured lawns and artistically shaped bushes offered a rare breath of fresh air amid the city's exhaust and distant matatu horns. A cobblestone path wound through the greenery to the massive dome itself. Inside the managerial office sat Willy, Boma Dome's fifty-year-old manager, finally closing the budget spreadsheet. He leaned back in his chair, arms behind his head, and let out a deep sigh that turned into a low chuckle. Another laugh escaped as he stared at the ceiling tiles. Eight gruelling months—no deals, forced layoffs, salary cuts for the remaining staff—and now, at last, a lifeline. Anderson Accessories, the English-based company on its Sahara Tour Expo, had chosen them after South Africa. Kenya was next. Willy's grin widened. He reached for the telephone, dialled a familiar extension, and waited. Moments later, Karis stepped in, orange binder in hand. He greeted his boss with a nod and took the offered seat. Karis blinked, then smiled—small at first, then broader. "Alright, sir. Thank you for trusting me. I won't let you down." Back in his own office, Karis closed the door and allowed himself a quiet moment: a slow exhale, a clenched fist pumped once against his chest. Responsible enough for a...