Tola sat in the waiting room of Gold & Sterling Law Firm, tapping her foot against the tiled floor. Her fingers twisted the strap of her purse, and she stole glances at the door every few seconds. The receptionist, a young man with thick glasses, noticed her unease. He did not need to ask if she was nervous—her body language spoke volumes.
Just then, the door swung open, and Mr. Adegbite, the senior lawyer, stepped out. His face was unreadable, but his slow, deliberate strides carried a weight of authority. He extended his hand toward Tola for a handshake. She hesitated but took it, her grip weak and unsure.
‘Miss Tola, please come in,’ he said, gesturing toward his office.Tola walked in, her shoulders hunched, clutching her purse tightly. She had come to dispute a land issue, and she knew she had to be confident. How could she, when the opposing party was a powerful businessman with deep connections?
As she took a seat, Mr. Adegbite observed her. ‘Are you certain about your claim?’ he asked.Tola opened her mouth to respond, but instead of words, she exhaled sharply and nodded.
He leaned back. ‘Your eyes just darted to the left. That tells me you are unsure about something.’Tola blinked. How did he know?’
Also, you have been gripping your purse so tightly, as if you are holding onto doubt,’ he continued. ‘If you don’t believe in your case, how do you expect me to?’
Tola sat up, startled. ‘I— I do believe, sir!’ she said, her voice firming up.
Mr. Adegbite smiled slightly. ‘Good. Now, sit straight, make eye contact, and tell me why you deserve justice.’
Tola took a deep breath, relaxed her shoulders, and met his gaze. This time, when she spoke, her body language matched her words. That was when she realised—before anyone hears you, they see you.
Sometimes, body language speaks louder than words.
