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The Wait – Chapter 14

Ajoke sat down on her bed after ensuring her children were in bed. The gifts from Kokumo lay beside her as she sighed. What does Kokumo want from me? Is it possible he is doing all these to gain nothing like he said? I remember we had dreams. Oh! We had a lot of big dreams. Dreams that after Kokumo’s University education, we would get married – and then I would also go to the University as well. Dreams that got shattered by Baami. Dreams that made no sense to Adejoro. Kokumo always wanted me to go to the University even though Baami could not afford it. Wasn’t it even a struggle to finish from secondary school? Hmmm….Kokumo!!! You have come back into my life ten years after and the first thing you are bothered about is that dream I always had – my dream to be a lawyer. Oh how I love you so much! How I wish we could pick up our lives from where we left and continue from there. But I know you have a woman in your life; my instincts tell me so.

She took out the GCE forms from the envelope which Kokumo had given to her and began to fill them carefully. When she was done, she put it aside with the textbooks and looked at the clothes and shoes in the bag. She smiled as she held each dress to her chest and stood in front of the mirror in her bedroom. She took out the shoes and counted; four flat shoes. She put them on and strutted round her room. When was the last time I ever got a gift or bought something for myself? My life has revolved round my children all through the years. She put the shoes by a corner of her bed and took out the mobile phone. Me? A new phone? Her eyes filled with tears as she opened the box carefully making sure not to tamper with the edges so she could keep it. Two hours later, Ajoke went to bed; all her gifts lying beside her at the corner where her husband, Adejoro would have laid.

Ajoke called Kokumo the next day to inform him that she had filled the forms. He promised to pick them up in a day’s time. Ajoke began to study for the forthcoming exams; leaving her salon earlier than she usually would. Kokumo picked up the forms as promised and submitted them. He made it a duty to call her every morning and night to know how she was faring and to encourage her in her pursuit. He also shopped for her children buying them clothes, shoes and toys befitting for their ages. He handed the gifts to Ajoke as he wasn’t sure if the children were ready to meet him.

*****

A week after Ajoke’s visit to the bank, Adunni called Kokumo. She wondered why she hadn’t heard from him and he told her he had been busy with work. “But you have always been busy, Lekan.” She said; calling him by his second name. He had dropped his first name after graduation from the University and picked up his second name.

“Yeah, I know. I have had a lot on my plate in the last one week but I would make it up to you.”

“Hmm…..” Adunni said. “Are you coming over to my place this weekend or do you want me to come over?” She asked.

“No, no. Don’t come. I will come over.” He said quickly. He did not want to risk Ajoke meeting with Adunni should she decide to visit. Even though, she had not mentioned that she would see him that weekend, he preferred to play safe.

Ajoke buried her head in her books for the next few months. She did not want to disappoint Kokumo so she put in extra hours of study staying up very late sometimes to read. Her exam date drew near and she became apprehensive. She hadn’t written an exam in ten years and she feared she may be incapable.

***

Two days before her exams were to start, Kokumo gave Ajoke a surprise visit at home during the weekend. She had been elated to see him and she introduced him to her children as her best friend. Her children had laughed saying they did not realize adults also had best friends. They welcomed him into their home and he made small talk with them before Ajoke shooed them out of the house so she could discuss with Kokumo alone.

Ajoke looked at Kokumo as she voiced out her concerns about the exams. “I’m scared. I don’t know if I am capable of doing this.”

“Why would you say that?”

“Kokumo, do you know how long ago I wrote an exam?”

Kokumo laughed. “I believe in you and it doesn’t matter how long ago you have written one.”

Ajoke sighed.

“You can do this, trust me. Remember the goal ahead?”

Ajoke nodded.

“Let it push you to accomplish your heart desire.”

Kokumo left hours later and Ajoke felt like a huge load had been lifted off her chest. Kokumo had given her relief and a reason to continue to push till the end.

*****

While Ajoke wrote her exams, Kokumo frequented Ajoke’s home with dinner for the children and Ajoke. In other instances, he went to Ajoke’s house and prepared their meals. He made it a duty to keep the children engaged, sometimes taking them out while their mother studied. Ajoke’s children began to look forward to Uncle Kokumo’s visit and meals. On the days he took them out, they came back excited as they told their mum, tales of places they visited, games they played and all kinds of interesting food they had eaten. Ajoke smiled and her heart fluttered as she watched her children. She had never seen them that happy and their excitement was contagious filling the air in her home and making it a place of love, joy and fulfillment.

By the time Ajoke was through with her GCE exams, Kokumo had started discussing about the forthcoming Jamb registration. He purchased the Jamb form in the first quarter of the next year when it was released and Ajoke burnt the midnight candle again taking only a short breather. By August of that year, Ajoke received her admission letter to study for a Law degree at the Lagos State University. She was overjoyed. As she walked out of the campus premises, she dialed Kokumo’s number.

“I made it. I got my admission letter.” She screamed into the phone when Kokumo picked up.

“Ajoke!!! Oh my God! This calls for a celebration.”

Ajoke smiled as she put the admission letter to her chest and looked up to the heavens.

“Don’t bother with dinner. I am bringing dinner over.”

“Okay.” Ajoke laughed. “I am just leaving campus.”

“That’s fine. I will meet you at home once I close for the day.”

The rest of the day, Kokumo sat in his office grinning from ear to ear. He was proud of Ajoke and the tenacity she put into making her dreams come true.

After work, Kokumo drove to Ajoke’s house with dinner for the children and a gift for Ajoke. The children were excited seeing him and they thanked him for the dinner. He told them he was taking their mother out and that they would be back before their bedtime. They laughed as they gave him a go-ahead. They were also thrilled to know that their mum had gained admission into the University. Ajoke smiled as she got dressed in the simple red gown which Kokumo had bought for her as a celebration gift. As she stood looking at herself in the mirror, it looked surreal that everything was falling in place for her. Her dreams were getting fulfilled right before her eyes. In a few years, I would also be a graduate; thanks to Kokumo. What would I have done without him? Where would I be if he did not walk back into my life? In such a short time, he has brought me hope, love, joy and fulfillment. I should not keep him waiting. She walked out of her bedroom without applying any make-up. Kokumo smiled as he admired her and he reckoned that even without the make-up, she looked beautiful.

Kokumo drove into town and took her to a bar. He walked in with his hand on the small of her back. The bar was dimly lit and the atmosphere was electrifying. Smooth jazz played in the background while couples cocooned themselves in corner tables eating, laughing and clinking glasses. He took a corner table as he guided Ajoke to sit opposite. A waiter came to take their orders and in less than fifteen minutes, they were served finger food and mocktails. They made small talk over their meal after which Kokumo raised his glass and gave a toast to her future.

“I really can’t thank you enough, Kokumo. You have been more than a friend.”

Kokumo laughed. “Have you told your parents?”

Ajoke’s smile faded. “No, I haven’t. I will tell them at the right time.”

Kokumo held her hand on the table and looked at her straight in the face. “You are yet to forgive them.”

Ajoke removed her hand from Kokumo’s. “Let’s not spoil the night, please. I came to have fun with you, not to discuss about my relationship with them.”

Kokumo shrugged. “Okay. We would revisit this discussion some other time.”

Ajoke nodded and her demeanor changed as she started talking about her children and their antics.

After dinner, Kokumo took Ajoke home. The kids were still awake and they asked their mum if she enjoyed her dinner. She responded in the affirmative as she looked at Kokumo lovingly. She asked Kokumo to wait so she could see her children to bed. Kokumo nodded and sat in the living room. After Ajoke had put them to bed, she came back to the living room and sat beside Kokumo.

“Thank you for the dinner and the dress.” She said as she looked at him. “Thank you for everything. For believing in me.”

Kokumo rubbed his thumb on her cheeks. “Thank you for allowing me.” He looked straight into her eyes as he smiled. ‘I couldn’t have done it without your help.”

Ajoke hugged Kokumo as she spoke; “You don’t know the extent of what you have done for me, Kokumo.” She said sighing. She lay her head on his chest and closed her eyes. This is a dream come true.

“I may not know the extent but I have an idea.” Kokumo replied as he pulled her hair away from her face. “I have never felt this kind of fulfillment all my life.”

Ajoke eased away from Kokumo as she planted a kiss on his lips. Desire rose in Kokumo and he held Ajoke as she was about pulling away from him. He kissed her passionately and she responded. “You don’t know the extent of my love for you.” Kokumo whispered as he breathed into her neck. He eased back and cradled her face in his hands. Ajoke closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Kokumo knew that her sigh was pregnant with meaning. Today was a day of celebration and he was committed to making it end as such. He closed the space between them intent on making Ajoke forget her sorrows. He never wanted her to think about the past again – the years she had lost. Her life was starting all over and it was a new dawn. He was determined to create a new future for her. He took her lips in his, kissing her slowly and passionately. The events of the day had set the tone and soon, they both kissed with wild desire.

Kokumo stood up and lifted Ajoke from her feet as he nodded towards the rooms. Ajoke pointed towards the direction of her bedroom. Kokumo walked towards the room, opened the door and locked it behind with Ajoke still in his arms. He dropped her gently on the bed as he teased her sensitive spots with kisses and undressed her. Ajoke shivered as a cold chill ran down her spine. She hurriedly undressed Kokumo and like a ravaging storm, they danced to the rhythm of their bodies delighting in the pleasure of the moment.

Ajoke woke up at about midnight and looked at Kokumo sleeping peacefully. There was a smile on his face. She sat at the edge of her bed and wondered. What exactly am I doing with Kokumo? I have betrayed Adejoro again and I can’t seem to tear myself away from this temptation. She sighed as she thought about how her life had panned out. She wouldn’t be in this mess if her parents hadn’t turned her life into a pawn on a chess board. She knew she should stay away from Kokumo but the more she thought about it, the more her heart broke. He was yet to mention having a girlfriend but she knew he had one. He had once ignored a call in her presence. A lady’s image had appeared on his phone while it rang. Even though, she had urged him to pick up the call, he had refused, saying he would call her later. For how long would we continue with this? Do I have a future with Kokumo? Is he willing to have me back into his life?

Kokumo opened his eyes and saw Ajoke staring at him. She almost felt as if he knew she watched him as he slept. He smiled as he pulled her down to lie beside him. He hugged her close as he kissed her cheeks. Ajoke tilted her head to look at him. “What exactly are we doing? Where are we going with this?”

Kokumo raised himself up and sighed. “I wish I knew Ajoke. I just want to be with you but sincerely I know it is not possible.”

“Why is it impossible?”

“You are still married, Ajoke. Don’t forget that.”

“You know I really hate it when you rub that in my face.” Ajoke said getting upset. “Married to who, please? A man who has abandoned me and my children?”

Kokumo pulled her closer to himself and held her. “I didn’t mean to upset you. I am just stating a fact. I know I am selfish for wanting you so badly but I can’t help it.”

“Do you realize how much I also want you?”

“I won’t deceive you Ajoke. We both long for each other but the circumstances in which we find ourselves is beyond our control. Let’s enjoy the moments and leave things as they are.” He said as he kissed her head.

“I wish……”

“Shhh…..” Kokumo put his fore finger on her lips. “We take it one day at a time.”

“Okay.” Ajoke said resigning.

“School starts in a few weeks, right?”

“Yes. I should have started my search for a maid.”

“A live-in?”

Ajoke shook her head. “No, I don’t want a live-in.”

Kokumo and Ajoke talked about so many issues till the early hours of the morning when Kokumo got dressed and left at about 4.30a.m.

——

The story continues…

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The Wait – Chapter 10

Days turned into weeks and weeks into months. With each passing month, Ajoke’s hope of receiving a letter from Adejoro dimmed. Initially, his mother frequented their home assuring her that he would be back soon but Ajoke was not sure who to believe; his friend or his mother. Adejoro’s mother gave no indication that her son had deserted his wife and Ajoke became more confused. She wondered a few times if Akanbi had mentioned her husband’s refusal to write back to spite her for refusing to sleep with him or if he meant what he had said. But she was unable to ask anyone. The only close friend Adejoro had was Akanbi and her elder brother and she was not sure if it was worth asking her brother, Adisa. Each day became a wait in expectation of a hope that was non-existent.

Six months after Adejoro’s scheduled return, Ajoke decided to go to her father’s house to talk to her brother. She reckoned that she was better off knowing if a calamity had befallen her husband than waiting expectantly for a letter that wasn’t forthcoming. She told Adisa about Akanbi’s statement carefully avoiding to discuss her encounter in his house. Even if her brother would forgive her for longing to be touched after years of abstinence, she was sure he would never forgive Akanbi for trying to take advantage of his sister. She knew her brother would head straight to Akanbi’s house and the consequences of his action could be fatal.

Adisa had been surprised by her revelation; and told Ajoke he was not aware Adejoro did not contact her anymore. He was even more shocked that he had stopped sending her a monthly stipend and wondered how his sister had coped the past six months with two extra mouths to feed. He scolded her for not confiding in him earlier but was glad that she sought his help now. He told her he was going to make sure he got to the root of the matter and find out exactly what the situation was.

Ajoke thanked him and Adisa gave her some money to take care of herself and her kids. Her mother also packed some foodstuff for her and Ajoke went home with her heart less burdened. The wait for word on her husband continued; albeit with support from her family. Three months after, Adisa sent an errand to Ajoke to come home. She wondered why Adisa would call for her as it was unusual. She hoped her parents were doing fine. She woke up early the next day, made food for her kids and got them prepared to visit her father’s house. She met her parents and her six brothers seated discussing when she walked in. The discussion stopped as soon as she stepped in and Ajoke felt uneasy. She looked at her father and her mother – they both looked well. Whatever had called for a family meeting must be very important; she reckoned.

Ajoke was asked to sit down and her mother took her grandchildren away, leaving Ajoke alone with her father and elder brothers. Adisa started by asking how she was faring and how she coped taking care of the children alone. Ajoke knew her brother was beating around the bush and she held her breath as she awaited the news from him that had made him call for a family meeting. Adisa eventually broke the bad news to Ajoke. Akanbi had been right – Adejoro had been enticed by the desire to live permanently abroad. He had therefore deserted her to build another home in the United Kingdom. Ajoke looked at her father’s face and shook her head in despair. Her father’s face mirrored her misery. He bowed his head and slumped his shoulders. This was not the desire he had for his only daughter. Ajoke’s face was resolute as she looked at the faces of each of her brothers. No tears escaped her eyes. She was only sad that she had become a single mother with no source of income.

She thanked her brother, Adisa and asked for her children. One of her brothers stood up to call for their mother. Ajoke’s mother came in with her grandchildren. She had tears in her eyes as she looked at Ajoke. She encouraged her daughter to stay the night but Ajoke refused; saying she was going back to her husband’s house – the house of the man she and her husband gave her out in marriage to. Iya Ajoke held her daughter’s hand as she begged her to forgive them. The tears threatening to spill came down Iya Ajoke’s cheeks in streams. She cried while Ajoke looked at her unflinching. They never imagined Adejoro would do this to them, Iya Ajoke said. She cursed the company that gave her son-in-law a scholarship and made her daughter a young single mother in her prime. She regretted the day she agreed to give out her daughter in marriage. She put her hands on her head as she grieved that her grandchildren would grow up without a father. Ajoke looked at her mother and sighed. There was no point lamenting, she told her mother. The deed had been done. The past couldn’t be erased. Ajoke walked out of her father’s house with her kids in tow.

When she got home, Ajoke sat down and looked around her. She needed a clear head and she pushed all thoughts of what could have been aside. The house she lived in had been built by Adejoro and she was glad she had no reason to worry about rent. She had never worked while she was married to Adejoro as he had seen no reason for her to. With two children in quick succession immediately after her marriage, she had had no opportunity to do any other thing but stay home and take care of her children. She thought of what she could do to earn a living so that she and her kids would not suffer. She remembered that when she was in the secondary school, a lot of her friends came to her house to get their hair weaved because most of them could not afford to pay a hairdresser. She stepped out of her house and looked around the vicinity. She saw a small carton lying on the ground; probably abandoned by some children who played around. She picked it up and took it into her house. She strapped her daughter on her back and held her son’s hand as she walked towards a primary school not too far from her house. Used pieces of chalk were strewn all over the floor and Ajoke picked up a few. She wrote on the carton with a piece of chalk advertising that a hairdresser lived within. She found a used rag and tore it into two, then used it to hang the carton on the tree in front of her house. She went back into her house to prepare a meal for her kids and awaited her first client.

Within a short while, word spread round that Iyawo Engineer weaved hair better than most of the other hairdressers in the vicinity. Ajoke’s house became a mecca of sorts for children and her weekends turned out to be her most busy period. She had mothers knocking on her door very early on Saturday morning to plait their daughter’s hair as they did not want to be caught up in long queues later in the day. Those who couldn’t deal with the long queues on Saturdays brought their daughters on Sundays. Ajoke hardly had time for a breather during the weekends.

She enrolled her kids in the nearby primary school and life took a new turn for her. Soon, the mothers who dropped their daughters also needed her services to get their own hair done and Ajoke became busier by the day. Her days became filled with work and soon the mothers had to book appointments. She no longer thought about what to eat and how to survive. She had just enough to feed herself and her kids.

The years rolled by and Ajoke forgot about her husband. His mother still visited her once in a while to see how her grand-children were faring in light of their father’s absence. By an unspoken agreement, Ajoke and her mother-in-law never discussed Adejoro. His mother could visit whenever she deemed fit but Ajoke demonstrated to her husband’s mother that she had no need for their family. Iya Ajoke also visited her grand-children but the relationship between mother and daughter was strained. Iya Ajoke tried to lighten her daughter’s burden by visiting with foodstuffs and buying gifts for her grand-children. Ajoke performed her duties to her parents but it was not done out of love but out of obligation. Her elder brothers all got married and had successful marriages.

*****

Seven years after Adejoro abandoned Ajoke, she rented a shop close to her house and opened a small salon with the proceeds of her business, establishing a name in the village as one of the foremost hairdressers. She recruited two girls who helped her in her salon and business went smoothly. Her brother, Adisa was happy that she was doing well and on one of his visits to her house, he advised that she opened a bank account so she could have some money saved for the rainy day.

Ajoke heeded her brother’s advice and took a bus to the nearest town the next day to open an account. She walked into the bank feeling a little strange as it was her first time in a banking hall. She had previously kept the proceeds of her business in a bag which she kept under her bed. The spacious banking hall was filled with the young and the old all waiting to be attended to. Even with the air-conditioning at full blast, the banking hall was stuffy with the smell of fish and raw beef mixed with sawdust and cement. Ajoke stood in queue by the customer service corner of the hall and awaited her turn. The lady at the customer service desk smiled at her as she asked Ajoke to sit down and gave her an account opening form to fill.

As Ajoke bent her head to fill the form, a man walked out of his office and called the attention of the customer service staff to a form in his hand. Ajoke froze as she heard the voice of the man who she assumed was the lady’s boss. She held on to the pen in her hand mid-air as the questions on the form became confusing – her mind went blank. She was scared to look up to identify the person who had just spoken. She wasn’t sure she wanted to know but she also needed to know. The manager walked to the customer service desk and stood beside his report requesting for more information regarding a customer’s form in his hands. As he spoke to her, Ajoke summoned up courage to lift her head. She met the manager’s eyes and the expression on the faces of both was shock. Ajoke could not believe her eyes. Her jaw dropped as she looked at him. The manager was stunned that he couldn’t finish his sentence. He started to stammer as his mind refused to process the information he was passing across to his report. He stood there looking at Ajoke; confusion and shock stamped on his face. The customer service staff noticed her boss was a little disoriented and asked him if he was okay. She wondered what had suddenly caught her boss’ attention and looked at Ajoke.

Ajoke had however, turned her attention back to the form she was filling. She could not fill the form any longer as the letters danced before her eyes. She held on to her pen refusing to look up as her eyes filled with tears. She could not afford to break down here in the presence of strangers. She bit her lower lip as she blew air through her mouth in a bid to subdue the tears. Life had been unfair to her. She quickly filled the form and handed it over to the lady before rushing out of the bank in a hurry.

———

The story continues…..

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The Wait – Chapter 9

Kokumo was in the faculty building when he was told by the secretary that he had a letter. He wondered who could have written him a letter as he had only previously received letters from Ajoke. As he collected the letter from the secretary, he looked at it and immediately recognized Ajoke’s handwriting. He sighed as he put it into his folder. Why is she writing me a letter? Is it to inform me about how she enjoyed her married life or what? His demeanour changed and he got angry – and just like the anger came suddenly, it was replaced by rejuvenated tender feelings for Ajoke. He wasn’t sure he wanted to read the letter. It would only open his heart to another round of hurt and he was trying to get over her. He made up his mind not to read the letter. He got to his room later in the day and flung the letter into his travel bag.

*

Ajoke wondered why she did not receive a response to her letter. Even though her husband tried to make her happy, she remained an unhappy woman. She did her wifely duties as she should but found no joy in her home or her husband. She thought about Kokumo day and night and sometimes imagined he would pay her a visit. She longed for his hugs, his kisses and his caresses and cried herself to sleep most nights after intimacy with her husband.

Adejoro’s pride had gone a notch up when he realized he made Ajoke a woman on the night of their traditional wedding. He had showered her with kisses and whispered into her ears endlessly that he loved her; always had and always will. Ajoke’s heart had been broken that night – the gift she had kept for Kokumo had been taken away from her and she mourned the loss of her priced possession to a man she had no feelings for.

Ajoke lived with her husband in a decent self-contained apartment within the averagely expensive part of town. All her friends who had gotten married earlier envied her. None of their husbands could afford to raise a family in that area of the town. Adejoro continued to work hard and he did his best to take care of his wife. However, Ajoke’s heart still longed for Kokumo, despite the fact that she knew his goodbye behind her house on the day he arrived from school had been final. Four weeks after her first letter, she wrote another one. She longed to hear from him. She wanted to know if he still thought about her. She needed to know if the love he had for her had grown cold. She wanted to know if he still missed her or if he had moved on and thrown her into the dustbin of history.

Kokumo received the second letter six weeks after the first. He was on the verge of opening it when he shook his head and flung it into his travel bag. No! He wasn’t going to read any letters from Ajoke again. He did not want to know how her husband made her a woman. He did not want to know how she melted under his touch. He was not interested in the pride she felt being married to one of the most sought out bachelors in her town. He did not need her to tell him to move on. In a few days, he sat for his exams and was through in another three weeks. He packed his few clothing into his travel bag and prepared to go home.

*****

Three months after Ajoke’s wedding to Adejoro, she found out she was pregnant. She knew she was supposed to be happy at the life growing inside her but it only made her more sorrowful. She endured every night attending to the needs of her husband and the consequences lay inside of her. Adejoro had been elated when he found out his wife was carrying his first child. He immediately registered her in a Primary health care centre and ensured she got enough rest.

Six months later, Ajoke delivered a baby boy after an easy labour. Her mother praised her for her bravery and was thankful to God for giving her a grandson. Adejoro’s mother moved in with them to assist Ajoke with taking care of the child. Adejoro converted his self-contained apartment into a two-bed so he could accommodate his mother. She stayed with Ajoke for a month before leaving and Ajoke’s mother moved in to continue from where she stopped. Iya Ajoke stayed for six weeks. When she was sure her daughter was strong enough to handle the job of taking care of her home and her son, she returned to her husband’s house.

With a baby to take care of, Ajoke’s mind became occupied and thoughts of Kokumo were quickly replaced. She however wrote him another letter to inform him that she now had a son which she would have loved to be his. Six months after she had her son, she found out she was pregnant again and was even three months gone. Adejoro was ecstatic. Everything seemed to be working in his favour. His family was doing well and he was never short of sub-contracted jobs to handle. In a few months, he would be through with the technical college and he knew that while his friends would be roaming around looking for jobs, he already had jobs waiting for him to handle. Life couldn’t be better for him and Ajoke.

Ajoke had a baby girl six months later. Her mother-in-law and her mother took turns to take care of her daughter as they previously did. Iya Ajoke told her daughter how proud of her she was; having two children of different sexes in quick successions. She also never failed to praise her daughter’s husband, Adejoro for taking good care of Ajoke. Life was good to them all and she was a fulfilled grandmother of two children. Ajoke’s father was also happy with the decision they had taken to give out their daughter in marriage to a good man. He imagined how envious his friends would be of him. Adejoro was making them proud with a good name, a good job and a great family.

Ajoke’s children were aged eighteen months and six months when Adejoro came home one evening excited. He sauntered into their apartment singing and dancing. He swung his legs to the left and to the right in a manner that thrilled his children. Ajoke wondered what the jubilation was about as she looked at him with confusion. Adejoro informed his wife that one of the companies he sub-contracted for was offering him a scholarship to further his education in the United Kingdom. Ajoke looked at her husband as if he spoke in another language.

Adejoro continued to sing and dance, praising God and oblivious to Ajoke’s demeanour.

“You can’t be serious.” Ajoke shouted when she found her voice. Adejoro stopped dancing and looked at his wife.

Ajoke’s daughter, Adebola began to cry; startled by her mother’s sudden outburst. Ajoke scooped her daughter up immediately and strapped her to the back as she patted her bum to stop her from crying.

“It is just for a few months, Ajoke. Before you know it, I will be back.” Adejoro said after his daughter’s cries subsided.

Ajoke harrumphed.

“Ajoke try to understand. I may never get this opportunity. Don’t deny me of this, please.” Adejoro pleaded.

“How long is a few months?” Ajoke asked as she sighed deeply.

“Twenty-four months.”

Ajoke’s jaw dropped. “And you call two years just a few months?” She asked in anger.

“Ajoke!!!” Adejoro called as he stressed her name.

Ajoke clapped her palms sideways and opened them facing upwards. “Okay oh, I have heard you Adejoro.  I don’t want you to say later that I denied you of progressing in life; God forbid.” She said as she snapped her fingers backwards over her head.  “You are free to go.” She continued.

“Thank you.” Adejoro said as he moved closer to his wife and gave her a hug.

“When are you leaving?”

“In two weeks’ time. I will make sure I send money to you monthly through one of my friends for your upkeep.”

Ajoke shook her head as she thought about her children. How am I going to cope in the next two years?

*****

Two weeks later, Adejoro travelled out of the country leaving Ajoke in the care of his mother. Even though Ajoke was yet to fall in love with her husband after over two years of marriage, she had grown fond of him and thought maybe she would eventually forget about Kokumo.

Adejoro’s mother moved in with Ajoke immediately after her son’s departure to spend time with her. Since Ajoke wasn’t working as advised by her husband, she woke up each day with a single mission – to take care of her children and her home. Adejoro’s mother did her best to keep her daughter-in-law company. She acknowledged that things were a little different without her son but she looked forward with hope that in twenty-four months, her son would be back and his family would be together again. She stayed with Ajoke for six months and left after her grand-daughter clocked one.

Even though Adejoro was on a scholarship, the company paid him a monthly stipend to keep body and soul together. He therefore kept his promise by sending Ajoke a portion of his monthly stipend through his friend, Akanbi. He also wrote letters to her to keep her informed of the progress of his education and life as a married bachelor, while Ajoke replied with pictures of his children.

Twenty-four months came quickly and Ajoke looked forward to her husband coming back home. She wrote him a letter in the twenty-third month to let him know that she and the kids were eager to have him back and expected a response from him. Four weeks passed by and she did not receive a response from her husband. She kept on going to the post office every day to check her box wondering why she was yet to receive a letter. By the twenty-fifth month, she became worried when she did not hear from her husband. She wondered what could have gone wrong and decided to go to his friend’s house on the other side of town.

*****

Akanbi was about stepping out of his house when Ajoke arrived there with her kids in tow. She decided to visit early before the morning sun was out. Her daughter was strapped to her back while she held her son’s hand. Akanbi was surprised to see her; it was Ajoke’s first time in his house. Her monthly upkeep from her husband had always been delivered to her at her house and he wondered what had brought her to his house this early. He welcomed her in and told her to make herself comfortable. Ajoke unstrapped her daughter and put her on the floor so she could play with her elder brother. She sat in the cane chair in Akanbi’s house favouring it for the couch in the living room. Akanbi brought some biscuits for the kids and a cup of cold water for Ajoke. He then asked her if he could be of any help.

Ajoke told him she was wondering why she had not heard from her husband. He was meant to return to the country after two years and it was a full month after the agreed time. She asked him if there had been any change in the terms of his scholarship and if he had an idea why Adejoro had not responded to her letter. Akanbi smiled as he stood up from the couch he was seated on and walked towards Ajoke. He sighed deeply as he took her hand and kissed it. Ajoke stood up abruptly, yanking her hand from him. She was shocked at Akanbi’s attitude and she wondered what had come over him.

“What do you think you are doing?” She asked.

Akanbi stepped towards her as Ajoke backed away. “You know Ajoke, you are still very beautiful even after all these years of not having a man to warm your bed.” He said smiling.

“Akanbi, I respect you a lot as my husband’s friend. I only came here to find out what is wrong with my husband.”

“Give me a chance to take care of you, Ajoke.” Akanbi said.

Ajoke looked at him as if she had just been punched in the face.

“Are you surprised?” Akanbi asked her as he moved towards her. Ajoke continued to back away from him till her back touched the wall.

Akanbi smiled knowing that he had her cornered. He moved close to her pinning her to the wall with his body. He traced his fingers over her bare arms sending Ajoke into a shiver. “I have always liked you but Adejoro was faster than I was. Beautiful Ajoke, the darling of many Ipaja young men.” He said as he moved his fingers up and down her collar bone, his breath on her face.

Ajoke held her breath as her heartbeat increased. She closed her eyes and bit her lips. She had not been touched in two years and her body was sore with desire. She longed to be kissed and caressed and a shiver ran up the length and breadth of her body as Akanbi kissed her shoulder and the nape of her neck. She did not push him back and Akanbi took this as his cue. The thought of Ajoke gracing his bed excited him and he was quickly aroused. Blood seeped into every part of his body stimulating his senses and heating up his body. The Ankara sokoto he was wearing became uncomfortable as he sought a release of the sexual tension built up. He slipped his hand under Ajoke’s dress lifting it up as he glided and pressed his excited lower torso to hers and hugged her tightly at the waist. His action made Ajoke tremble causing a gasp to escape her lips as her body warmed and craved a man’s touch.

Akanbi’s excitement increased as he realized he had broken her will and she ached to have him. Ajoke’s eyes were still closed and he noticed how she took in a deep breath when he caressed her bust. He wished he had invited her towards the couch but that could wait. He reckoned he could lift her easily. Next time, he would make sure their intimacy was on the couch which would be more comfortable for him. He struggled to take off her underskirt with one hand while he tried to untie the rope on his sokoto with the other hand.

Suddenly, Ajoke’s daughter started to cry. Ajoke heard Adebola’s cry but it seemed like it was coming from a faraway distance. Akanbi looked at Adebola briefly before successfully sliding down Ajoke’s underskirt from her body. He wasn’t going to let the cry of the little child abort his mission. He untied his sokoto in a hurry with one hand as the other hand went under Ajoke’s dress to caress her thighs. Adebola’s cries grew louder while Akanbi’s hand moved faster between Ajoke’s thighs. He struggled to step out of his sokoto as the urge to accomplish his mission grew. Ajoke wondered why her daughter was crying as beams of passion shot through her body.

Ajoke began to hear her daughter’s cries come closer and she shook and came out of her reverie. She saw her daughter crawling towards where she stood and looked at Akanbi. Her underskirt was on the floor and Akanbi groped her. He had taken off his underpants and was about to lift her off the floor when she pushed him back. He staggered backward, surprised at the sudden change of behaviour.

“What is wrong with you?” He asked in a low voice as he moved towards her.

“Don’t come near me.” Ajoke shouted.

Akanbi laughed. “What will you do?”

Ajoke started sobbing. “Why would you do this to your friend’s wife? He trusted you.” She said as she picked up her underskirt from the floor and put it back on.

Ajoke’s tears shocked Akanbi and he stammered. “But…but…Ajoke, you also want this. I know you do. Your body longs for a man. Just once won’t hurt. No one will know, I promise you.” He said as he stepped forward and tried to touch her.

Ajoke knew she had failed her husband and she felt sorry. She shouldn’t have come here in the first place. She hit Akanbi’s hand away as she picked up her crying daughter, put her on her back while Akanbi watched confused.

“Ajoke, please don’t go. I will take care of you.” He said.

“I don’t need you to take care of me. I just want to know when my husband is coming back.” Ajoke cried.

“Your husband is never coming back.” Akanbi spat.

Ajoke looked at Akanbi with shock. “What did you say?” She asked as she held on to her son’s hand.

“You heard me. Adejoro is never coming back. He is dating someone else who he plans to get married to.”

Ajoke shook her head vigorously. “No, no, stop lying against my husband.”

“So why hasn’t he responded to your letter? Why hasn’t he told you anything about his return?”

Ajoke burst into tears as she carried her son, opened the door in a hurry and ran out of Akanbi’s house.

——-

The story continues…..

Photo Credit: http://www.gettyimages.com

Posted on

The Wait – Chapter 5

Kokumo went back to school a week later. Immediately he arrived campus, he went to his favourite spot; away from all the hustle and bustle of the school environment and sat down to write a letter to Ajoke. He informed her that he had arrived school safely and that he missed her already. He wanted to explain how he missed her with more words, but they weren’t enough. He finally told her he couldn’t wait to complete his education so that they could be together and forever.

Ajoke smiled when she received Kokumo’s letter. She placed the letter on her chest and day-dreamed about her marriage rites to Kokumo. The Alága ìjókòó and the Alága ìdúró will get the ceremony started without the couple. A proposal letter and an acceptance letter will be exchanged between the two families signifying an offer and an acceptance. Kokumo will dance in with his friends and she smiled as she imagined the Alága ìjókòó – representing her family; grilling the crew. Kokumo and his friends would be made to open their wallets and pay their way in before their official introduction to her family. Kokumo and his friends will prostrate flat in front of her family and he would receive her parents blessings. He would also acknowledge his family by prostrating in front of them before he is allowed to take his seat.

Ajoke’s smile grew bigger as she saw herself seated patiently with her friends in her room while the traditional engagement went on in her absence – awaiting the call of the Alága ìjókòó. She would be dressed in an expensive lace bùbá and ìró with matching gèlè and ìpèlé. The red coral beads popularly worn by brides during their traditional wedding would adorn her neck. When she is eventually called into the venue, she will be veiled as she dances in, swaying her hips; surrounded by her friends. Ajoke rocked from side to side to an imaginary tune as she moved from her parents to Kokumo’s family, to be received into their fold. She was lost in her imaginary engagement and did not realize when her mother walked into the room.

“Ah ah, kí ló n se ìwö ömö yìí? O jòkó sí ibí bayìí, tó yë ko wá bámi dá iná.”
“What is wrong with you, this child? You sit down here when you should be helping me prepare food.”

Ajoke was startled when she heard her mother and quickly put the letter under her pillow. She had no idea how long she had been in dreamland.

“Kíni ìwé to tójú sí abé ibusùn ë?”
“Which paper did you just keep under your pillow?” Iya Ajoke asked.

“Kò sí mà.”
“Nothing ma.” Ajoke replied looking scared.

“Sé ìdáhùn sí ìbéèrè mi nì yën?”
“Is that the answer to my question?”

“Rárá mà.”
“No ma.”

Iya Ajoke looked at her as she expected a response.

“Ìwé…ehn…ìwé yën.”
“Paper….the paper.” Ajoke stuttered as she looked at her pillow and looked back at her mother.

“S’ó ò lè dáhùn ni?”
“Can’t you answer?” Iya Ajoke shouted.

“Ìwé tí wón fi ránsé sí mi láti ilé ìwé gíga ni.”
“I was sent the letter from the University.”

“Ilé ìwé gíga? Sé bàbá ë o sò fún ë pé kò s’ówó láti rán ë lö sí ilé ìwé gíga ni?
“The university? Has your father not told you that there are no funds to send you to the University?”

“Wön ti so fún mi, mà.”
“He has told me, ma.” Ajoke said looking at her feet.

“Kí lo n wá da ara ë láàmú fún?”
“So why are you disturbing yourself?”

“Mi ò ní rò ó mó.”
“I won’t think about it again.” Ajoke replied as she stood up.

Her mother pulled her close and hugged her.

“Ilé ökö ló yë kí o ma rò ní ìsìnyín. To bá ti lo sí ilé ôkö ë, o ma gbàgbé nípa ilé ìwé.”
“You should be thinking about getting married. Once you get married, you will forget about schooling.”

“Mo ti gbó Màámi.”
“I have heard, my mother.”

*

That night, as Iya Ajoke and her husband were about to retire to their tattered mattress, she mentioned the discussion between her daughter and herself to Baba Ajoke. She told Baba Ajoke that she was beginning to see reasons with him as regards giving their daughter out in marriage. She told her husband that even if Ajoke was interested in going to the University, she would be better off doing that from her husband’s house; as he would bear the sole responsibility of financing her education.

Baba Ajoke told his wife that he was happy that she understood his point of view. He informed her that a friend of their first son, Adisa who was an engineer had indicated interest in Ajoke but since she refused to give out her daughter in marriage, he had asked him to hold on for a while. He also mentioned that he had even gone ahead to make investigations about his family and that they were good people.

Iya Ajoke was surprised that her husband had made all the inquiries needed prior to the marriage of their only daughter without her knowledge. She was however, happy that they had found a suitable suitor – an engineer. That meant her daughter would be referred to as “Ìyàwó Engineer” (wife of an engineer). She smiled as she thought about the title which was much better than hers – Ìyàwó Bàbá Ëlému.

***

The next day, as agreed between her parents, Iya Ajoke called her daughter aside and informed her that a young engineer had indicated interest in her. She told her daughter that she and her father had agreed that this was the best time for her to get married. Most of her friends were already married and they wished the same for their daughter. She informed her that the young engineer was her elder brother’s friend who frequented their house in search of her brother. She also assured her that he would take care of her and make her a proud mother of many children.

Ajoke looked at her mother, unable to utter words. I warned Kokumo. I warned him. Now what I feared is eventually coming to pass. Her heart cried out. Oh Kokumo, where are you? How am I going to fight this battle alone?

“Ajoke…Ajoke, so gbó gbogbo nkan tí mo sö?”
“Ajoke, did you hear all I have said?”

Ajoke looked at her mother as a tear escaped her eyes.

“Mo gbó ö yín Màámi.”
“I heard you, my mother.”

“Kí ló n wa pá é ní igbe? Nkan ìdùnú kó ni mo bá ë sö ni?”
“So why are you crying? Isn’t this discussion a thing of joy?”

“Mi ò tí ì fé lö sí ilé ökö.”
“I am not ready to get married now.”

“Kí lo fé ma se ní ilé Bàbá ë? Sé orí méjì ni àwön òré ë tí wón ti lo sí ilé ökö ní ni?”
“What will you be doing in your father’s house? Do your friends who have gotten married have two heads?”  Iya Ajoke asked irritably.

Ajoke looked down as the tears flowed freely.

“Ya nu ojú ë kíá kíá, ko múra láti pàdé àwön ëbí ökö ë ní òsè méjì sí èní.”
“Better wipe your tears and get ready to meet your husband’s people two weeks from now.” Iya Ajoke concluded.

As Ajoke lay on her bed that night, she thought about the promise Kokumo had made to her; the promise to get married to her immediately after his graduation. Since eavesdropping over her parents’ conversation about marriage, she had been uncomfortable with his decision to wait till he graduated. But his dream was to become a graduate and she knew denying him that dream would be selfish of her. With the turn of events now, she wondered if his decision was the best. Her parents were giving her out in marriage and there was nothing she could do about it. Most of her married friends also had their marriages arranged by her parents and thinking hers would be an exception at this point was laughable.

Early the next morning, before her brothers woke up to prepare for the day’s job, Ajoke tore a sheet of paper and wrote a lengthy letter to Kokumo. She informed him about the decision taken by her parents, the date set for the introduction by her prospective husband’s people and her fear of living a life of misery married to someone she did not know. She put the letter in her pocket and waited till the right time to go to the local post office.

***

Two weeks later, Adejoro and his immediate family came for an introduction. They came bearing gifts of foodstuff and told Baba Ajoke that they had found a flower in his house which they intended to pluck. Baba Ajoke welcomed them into his abode and asked Iya Ajoke to entertain the August visitors.

“Àwön ëbí ökö ë ti dé.”
“Your husband’s family members are here.” Iya Ajoke said excitedly to her daughter who was pounding yam at the back of the house.

Ajoke refused to look up from what she was doing but continued to hit the mortar with the pestle in her hands with force.

Iya Ajoke assuming that her daughter did not hear her moved closer to her. She repeated herself again.

Ajoke ignored her mother and continued to pound.

“Sé o ti di adití ni?”
“Are you now deaf?” She asked her daughter.

Ajoke stopped and wiped her brow with her forefinger flicking the sweat away.

“Mo ti gbó yín.”
“I have heard you.”

“Wò ó, ya só ara ë, tí o ò bá fé kí bàbá ë bínú sí ë.”
“Look, you better be careful if you do not want your father to be cross with you.” Iya Ajoke said as she pointed a warning finger at her daughter.

She walked into the kitchen and started dishing the èfó ëlégùsí that she had prepared that morning for their visitors into bowls. When she was done, she called Ajoke to scoop large mounds of the iyán into plates and bring them into the kitchen. Iya Ajoke called her youngest son, Akanni to assist her so she could serve their visitors. It was not yet time for the prospective husband to see his intending bride.

Akanni and his mother went ahead to serve the visitors while Ajoke went to her room to await her parents call. As she sat down on her mattress, a tear slid down her cheek. She was at a loss of what to do. She hadn’t heard from Kokumo and she wondered if he had received her letter. She was half-expecting him to show up in her house any moment from now to disrupt the marriage rites. She was still in her state of dejection when she heard her mother’s voice.

“Ajoke, Ajoke, ó ti yá o.”
“It is time.”

She quickly cleaned her eyes and stood up. Her mother had given her one of her most expensive ìró and bùbá to wear with beaded accessories. The attire was always at the bottom of her portmanteau as she only wore it for special occasions. Ajoke’s introduction was one of such and she told her daughter that she deserved to be dressed expensively. Even though the attire looked a little big on her, Ajoke had cared less about the fit. She was not interested in looking attractive to her prospective husband’s people.

Her mother took her hand and led her into the small courtyard where everyone waited for the beautiful flower to be plucked. As taught by her mother, she knelt down in front of every member of her prospective husband’s family greeting each one of them. Adejoro smiled broadly as he nodded his head. He raised his shoulders with pride as she took turns to greet every member of his family. He was the last to be greeted and as she knelt down in front of him, he pulled her up into a hug. Everyone clapped at Adejoro’s gesture while Ajoke boiled inside. She refused to hug him back but Adejoro was too caught up in the moment of adulation to notice.

He had eyed his friend’s younger sister for years. She was still in the junior secondary class when he had mentioned to his friend, Adisa that his sister was beginning to sprout into a beautiful lady. Adisa had mocked him when he said he would not mind marrying her one day. Adisa told him she was too young for marriage and that their father wanted her to finish her secondary education. Adejoro had agreed with him on the importance of education. He had also finished his secondary education the same year as Adisa but from different schools. While Adisa had gone ahead to trade in shoe making, Adejoro had gone to a technical college to fine tune his engineering skills. He was still in the technical college but also made a few cash helping out with sub-contracted jobs. His side job had earned him the title “Engineer” within the village and he prided in it jealously. He had also earned the admiration of the young ladies in the village and each one of them sought his attention.

The two families agreed to wed their children in four weeks’ time. A list of items to be bought by Adejoro’s family was also handed over to them by Ajoke’s family. Baba Ajoke reckoned that since his daughter was getting married into a family which stood better than them in terms of means, he needed to make sure he requested enough to cater for his own family.  He therefore demanded for an increased number of food items than the usual tradition. His wife also needed to have a change of clothing, so he demanded for expensive clothing items as well.

This was the only chance he had to upgrade his family and he was ready to go the extra mile to ensure they were well catered for.

——–

The story continues…..

Photo Credit: http://www.wikihow.com

Posted on

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 18

About two weeks later, Grace called Ayotunde. “Hey babe.”

“Wassup?”

“Nothing much. Bored to death in this house.”

Ayotunde laughed. “Watch movies, read a book, take a stroll. That’s all I have been doing.”

“Same here. They can fix weaves at your brother’s place, right?”

“Yep.”

“I think I should go there today. Can you help me call your brother?”

“Okay. I will. Who’s taking you?”

“Mr. Solomon will drop me off and come back later to pick me.”

“Okay then. I will call Ayorinde now.”

“Thanks babe.”

***

Ayotunde called her brother immediately. He wasn’t in the salon but he said he was around the corner and was going there right away. Hours later, Ayorinde parked his white Toyota Corolla in the premises where his salon was situated. He picked up his mobile phone from the center console and was about to dial his sister when he saw a car drive in. Mr. Solomon parked the car and Grace stepped out.

Ayorinde put his phone into his pocket and eased out of the car. “Hi.” He said as he walked up to Grace; his smile reaching his eyes.

“Good afternoon.” She replied Ayorinde. She looked at Mr. Solomon. “Please, come back in….” looking at her wrist watch; “Three hours.”

Mr. Solomon nodded and put the car in reverse.

“Ayotunde called me that you were on your way here.”

“Yes.”

“So what would you like to do?” Ayorinde asked as he looked at her hair.

“I want to fix weaves.”

“Do you have yours with you or do you want to buy?”

“Oh, I didn’t realize you also sold weaves.”

Ayorinde smiled. “Yes, we do. Let’s go inside”. He said as he signaled for her to walk ahead.

*

Ayorinde personally attended to Grace. In an hour and half, he was done. “Do you like it?” He asked her as he looked at her reflection in the mirror opposite.

Grace smiled. “I love it. I love this look.”

“I’m glad you do.” Ayorinde looked up at the clock above the mirror. “You still have about an hour and half left to wait.”

“Oh goodness.”

“Can we go to the café downstairs for a drink?”

“Okay.”

*

Grace decided to order an ice cream while Ayorinde ordered a bottle of malt. As they sat at a table of two, Ayorinde asked; “So what are your plans for the University?”

“I’m interested in Theatre Arts but my dad hasn’t given a go-ahead. He says the course is a no-go area and that I should think of something else.”

“So have you thought of another course?”

Grace shook her head. “I don’t want to study another course. I want to study Theatre Arts.”

Ayorinde sipped from his glass and looked at her. “So how do you intend to convince your dad?”

“I haven’t thought about it sincerely. It makes me tired having to fight over something like this.”

“What do you mean?”

Grace shrugged but refused to give an answer. Even though, Ayorinde was her best friend’s brother, she wasn’t sure of how much information he knew about her and she wasn’t willing to give him more than he probably already knew from her friend.

Ayorinde noticing the change in Grace’s body language decided to change the topic. He told her he would be glad if she could introduce more of her friends to his salon.

Grace smiled. “I would love to.” She said. She flicked her weaves and it bounced around her shoulders. “How did you get to make women’s hair so perfectly?”

Ayorinde laughed. “I never got the opportunity you have now.”

Grace looked at him confused.

“To go to the University. So I decided to do something else. I always loved to see a head with lovely hair on either a man or a woman. So I told Mama T I wanted to go to a beauty school. She registered me at one and the rest is history.”

“Wow! That’s cool.”

“Yeah.”

“I always wanted to ask Ayotunde. She also called your mum Mama T anytime she talked about her and you just did the same now. Is there a particular reason why?”

“We met her some years ago when we were down and out. She made us what we both are today. We called her Mama T then, I guess it stuck.” He laughed. “We call her mummy at home though.”

Grace finished her ice cream and pushed the cup aside. “I don’t understand. What do you mean by met her some years ago. She isn’t your biological mum?”

“She’s our guardian.”

“And your parents?”

“They are fine.”

“They live in this Lagos?”

“Yes. They do.”

“This is strange.”

“Don’t worry your pretty head over it. It’s complicated.”

*

Grace looked outside and noticed Mr. Solomon was back. “I didn’t realize we had spent over an hour here already.” She said pointing to the car. “I have to go.” She stood up.

“That’s fine.” Ayorinde said also standing up.

“Thanks for the ice cream and the company.”

“The pleasure is mine. I enjoyed the company as well.”

As they walked outside, Ayorinde asked; “Is it okay if I call you sometime?”

“Okay.” Grace replied as she reeled out her number.

Ayorinde punched the numbers on his phone. “See you around.” He said as she eased into the back seat of the car.

***

That evening, Ayotunde called Grace. “Babe, so did you like your hair?

“Like or love? I love it. Your brother personally attended to me.” Grace laughed over the phone.

“Hmm…..that’s nice.”

“Your brother is a cool guy.”

“So I hear from everyone who meets him.”

“You don’t think he is?” Grace asked.

“You’re kidding, right? I love my brother to bits. He is the definition of cool.” She laughed heartily.

“I like him.”

“Hmmm……”

“What? Is he out of bounds?” Grace sneered into the phone.

“Meaning?”

“Does he have a girlfriend?”

Ayotunde guffawed. “My brother is as clear as the sky.”

“Really?”

“What are we friends for? If he was tied up, I would have told you.”

“Okay then.”

“Erm….what does that okay mean?

“Nothing.”

“Grace!!!!” Ayotunde stressed her name.

“Oh girl. You always have a way of getting things out of my mouth.”

“Spill it. I’m all ears.”

“We had some time to chat at the café downstairs while waiting for Mr. Solomon. He took my number as I was about leaving. I just wanted to know where to place the boundary when he decides to call.”

“Well, it looks like you guys are getting along pretty well without me.”

“Oh c’mon, don’t tell me you are jealous.”

“Jealous? No way. As long as my brother is happy, I am happy.”

“Okay girl. I have to go. I need to make dinner for my dad before he gets back from work.”

“Okay. Talk to you later.”

“Bye.”

******

Ayorinde called Grace two days later. His calls became frequent and Grace began to look forward to them. They talked for long hours on the phone. Ayorinde made sure he called her every morning and every night before he went to bed.

Grace called her sister, Aderemi every weekend by video call and on one of their calls, she decided to voice out her feelings to her sister.

“Sis, you should meet him. He is such a sweet guy.”

‘Really? How long have you known him?’ Aderemi asked; as she beat an egg in a bowl.

‘About two months now.’

‘And you said he is Ayotunde’s elder brother?’

‘Yes sis.’ Grace said as she adjusted the ear buds in her ear.

‘Okay. What does Daddy think about him?’

‘I haven’t told Daddy yet oh. Ah! Before he will say; is that what you should be thinking about now?’ She smirked, gesticulating with her hands.

‘But he would be right to say so, don’t you think?’ Aderemi turned to look into the camera.

‘C’mon sis. I’m not too young to have a boyfriend.’

‘I never said you were Grace. I am only saying having one could be a distraction. You just got admission into Uni. I think you should focus on your studies and leave men alone.’

‘Sis, have I ever disappointed you with my grades?’

Aderemi ignored her question and poured her beaten egg into a fry pan.

‘Sis! Sis, answer me nau.’ Grace said waiting for her sister’s response.

Aderemi breathed deeply as she switched off the fire under the fry pan.

‘No, you have never disappointed me Grace. I just want you to be careful, that’s all.’

‘I will be sis. That’s why I love you.’ Grace smiled.

‘I love you too baby girl.’

‘When are you done with your course?’

‘In about 3 months.’

‘So we having a homecoming party in three months. Woohoo!’ Grace clapped excitedly.

‘No homecoming party Grace.’

‘But why? Aren’t you happy to be coming back home?’

‘Of course, I am but I don’t want any party.’ Aderemi said matter-of-factly.

‘I doubt you can get out of this sis. You refused to have a graduation party after your first degree. I doubt Daddy will let you get away with this one. I will personally see to that.’ Grace winked at her sister.

‘Ha! Grace, you can really be a pest atimes.’

‘I know sis and that’s why you love me.’ She replied bursting out into laughter.

Aderemi shook her head as she waved at her sister and ended the call.

The story continues…

Posted on

Blind Pact – Chapter 9

Kofo eased into her car in anger. No one had ever crossed her path and gone scot free. Gboyega was crossing her path and he was doing it without giving a hoot. She had travelled out of the country for about three months and by the time she came back, so many things had changed. She tried ringing him but his number was unreachable. She began to wonder what the problem could be. Since he had graduated from school, going to campus to check on him had not been an option. She had never bothered to know where he lived. Their rendezvous had always been at places she chose. She got her informant to get her all the details she needed and she had been shocked to hear that Gboyega had dropped her for a school girl. What was he thinking? She made more inquiries and found out who the girl really was. A church girl. She had been surprised when she found out.

She smirked as she tapped the steering wheel. Gbosgaga, a Christian? She laughed derisively and shook her head as she thought about him. So far, he had been the only source of happiness in her life and she could not let him go. No, not now. Not ever. He was hers and hers alone. No one else could have him. She hoped Bola would heed to her threat to stay away. She had been nice to her when she visited her room. Her next encounter with her may not be pleasurable if she refused to keep her hands off Gbosgaga.

Her happiness started and ended with him and she was ready to go into the deep recesses of her heart to wake up her past life in a bid to hold on to him. Kofo grew up in one of the slums of Calabar with her prostitute mother. She never knew who her father was. Every night, her mother locked her up in her room while she went out for her business. Unknown to her mother, one of the neighbours in their face-to-face abode had made a spare key to their room. While her mother went out to service her clients, the man came in with the spare key and serviced himself with Kofo. He was a young man of about twenty-two who lived with his parents who were drunks. He had no source of living and he hung around the house every day making a nuisance of himself.

She was just eight when he initially forced himself on her. She had cried all through till morning. He had warned her never to mention it to anyone; as that would result in her death and that of her mother. She had been too scared to tell her mother and she lived with that fear until she ran away from home at the age of thirteen. At thirteen, she had become fully matured and well-rounded and could pass for a twenty-one year old. Even though, her mother did not lock her in any longer whenever she went for her business, her abuser still visited their room every night to fulfill his pleasure.

The night she ran away, the man had come into her mother’s room as usual but this time, he came with three of his friends. He had smiled wickedly as he caressed her body and told her she was going to enjoy this session specially. She nodded as her soul died that night. The men had been excited as they groped her. Her abuser had proudly told his friends that he was only giving them this opportunity as she solely belonged to him. He told them to take their turns as he was having her the whole night. He beat his chest as he told them that he had made Kofo capable of going many rounds. His friends had been a little envious and each of them had tried to woo her with sweet words.

The three friends got down on her; each unable to hold his urge. Every opening in her body became a tool of abuse. Her abuser stood by her watching his friends as he excited himself, caressing her bust and awaiting his turn. Kofo continued to endure the abuse waiting for the right time to strike. When she noticed that their pleasure was hitting a crescendo, in the heat of their passion, she pulled out the chopping knife she had kept under the single mattress in the room and sliced each one of them wherever she deemed fit. Shock registered on their faces and before they could get a hold of themselves, she hit the knife on the head of her main abuser, opened the door and bolted out.

She never went back home. She picked a top and a trouser spread on the line outside the house and ran as fast as her legs could carry her. The night was eerie and she was covered in its darkness. She had stolen a few cash from her mother’s underwear bag and as she got dressed in an uncompleted building, she hid the cash inside her brassiere. She took a bus to Lagos that night. She did not care where she was going. She just wanted to be far away from home. The bus was carrying goods but she had begged the driver to allow her ride with him to wherever he was going. She could barely stretch her limbs in the crammed bus but she hadn’t been bothered. As long as she left the city, she was ready to bear anything.

She had arrived in Lagos as a newbie to street life. She slept in parks with a jackknife in her pocket and used it freely on anyone who tried to take advantage of her. She was quickly noticed by the men of the underworld and they saw her as an asset. She was used as a bait to lure men before they were robbed and she got her share of every operation the men handled.

 

During one of their operations, she had pretended to be in distress and knocked continuously on the door of an apartment. A man asked who was at the door and she had answered that she needed help. The man had opened the door and her two-man gang had pushed the man inside holding a gun to his head. They asked the man to bring out every cash he had and also asked his wife to handover all her jewelry.

After robbing them, one of her gang members looked at the man’s daughter as he licked his lips. The girl was about Kofo’s age. He asked the girl to lead him to her room and her father knowing what was about to happen began to plead with him. The man pointed his gun at the girl’s father and told him to shut his mouth. The girl started crying as she was rough-handled by the gang member.

As he was about leaving for the girl’s room, Kofo called him and asked him not to touch her. He got angry and told Kofo that if she had allowed them to have their way with her, he wouldn’t have to look for pleasure somewhere else. If she would not allow them to touch her, then he could touch anyone he wished without her consent. The second gang-member laughed and told Kofo he was going to have his turn after his friend. Kofo warned them a second time to leave the girl alone as their mission was to rob and not to rape but the men only laughed her to scorn.

As one of the men carried the girl like a sack, she screamed and memories of Kofo’s past came rushing back to her. Kofo put her palms over her ears trying to block out the screams but they only grew louder. She opened her eyes and saw the girl’s parents sobbing. She became enraged and walked into the girl’s room. Her hands had been tied and they were raised above her head. Her legs were also tied to the sides of her bed post. Her night gown had been torn and it lay on the floor by the bed. She lay on the bed naked and helpless. Tears streamed down the girl’s cheeks and Kofo saw fear in her eyes. The men smiled when she walked in and urged her to watch and enjoy their romp. They were both half-naked.

As the first man moved towards the girl, she screamed again and he slapped her hard in the face. Kofo felt the sting of the slap on her own face. The man grabbed the girl by the neck and was about to force himself on her when Kofo pulled out her gun and shot both of them point blank in a fit of fury. She walked out of the house alone with their booty and decided she was through with men of the underworld.

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She moved on to become a pimp for politicians and this became the source of her wealth.

Gboyega had to come back to her. She did not care about his new love for Christianity. He belonged to her and she was going to have him back by all means.

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Blind Pact – Chapter 7

Gboyega is upset and angry after Bola’s call. He had not envisaged Kofo will go looking for Bola in school. He wondered how she found out about her; but knowing who Kofo was, she always had her way with information. It was over between them. Why was she refusing to understand? He had the mind of calling her this night but he had changed his phone number simply because he did not want to have anything to do with her again. Calling her now, was exposing himself to her whims once more. Since he changed his number, he had had a bit of respite from her incessant calls. Should I call her to warn her or ignore her threats to Bola? He ruminated over his decision over and over as he lay on his bed till he dozed off.

The next morning, Gboyega gets up early to prepare for the day’s job. He is just coming out of the bathroom when his doorbell chimes. Who could be looking for me this early? He quickly gets into his trousers, wears his shirt leaving the buttons undone and walks towards the door to see the early visitor. He opens the door and standing right before him is Kofo. She puts her hand on the door lintel and as usual is chewing a gum. The expression on Gboyega’s face is that of surprise and then anger.

“What are you….?” Gboyega is asking before he is hushed with a wave of Kofo’s hand.

“Shhh…It is too early. You would wake the neighbours.” She says placing her forefinger on her lips.

Gboyega refuses to be hushed and asks through clenched teeth. “What do you want from me?”

Kofo pushes him aside as she walks into his room. A mattress lies to the right corner of the room, a wooden chair and table on the left and a small LED TV hangs on the wall.

Gboyega closes the door behind him and faces her. “Kofo, what do you want from me? Why won’t you leave me alone?”

Kofo bursts into laughter. She walks towards the table and drops her handbag on it. “Leave you alone. C’mon Gbosgaga, you can run but you can’t hide. You know that, don’t you?”

“Kofo, I am through with you. Don’t you get it?”

“Through with me? Through with me? And you leave me for mummy’s girl.” Kofo shouts at him.

“Leave Bola out of this. She has nothing to do with the relationship we had.”

Kofo is sober. “Then why did you leave me? Why did you change your phone number? Why have you refused to warm my bed? My body has been panting for you. I have missed your touch, Gbosgaga.” She says in a whisper.

She moves towards Gboyega and places her hands on his chest. She traces a finger on his toned chest, circles it up his neck and to his lips. Gboyega closes his eyes and savours the feel of her fingers on him. His mind transports back in time to when Kofo meant everything to him; when satisfying her pleasures was his only reason for living tomorrow. He remembers when the world stopped at her feet; when he lived for her. It was not a life he had wanted but he had enjoyed every bit of it while it lasted.

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It has been a long time since he was with a woman and Kofo knew what to do to trigger every hormone in his body. Kofo’s finger draws doodles on his body and as she gets to his pelvis, he catches his breath. Blood was beginning to seep into his nether region and he was getting to a place of no return. He suddenly shakes his head and opens his eyes as if a jinx over him has been broken. He holds her two hands and steps away from her. “No, Kofo. I am through with you. Through with being your…your…” He found himself unable to complete his sentence. He hated the word he was meant to use.

“My boyfriend?” Kofo completes his sentence.

“Yes, your boyfriend.” He is thankful she had not mentioned the word but it did not change the fact that that was who he was to her.

“Why?” Kofo asks in confusion. “What do you want that I haven’t been able to give you?”

“It is not about what I need, Kofo. I am now a Christian.”

Kofo looks at Gboyega with shock then begins to laugh derisively. “You, Gbosgaga? A Christian? No, tell me that’s a joke.”

Gboyega looks at her without saying a word.

“Weren’t you a Christian when you lost your parents? Where was your God then? Where was He when you needed money to bury them? Hmm…tell me.”

Gboyega turns away from her.

Kofo walks towards him and pulls him by the shirt turning him to face her. “Answer me Gboyega. Where was He when you were in need? When you couldn’t pay your school fees or take care of your younger ones? And now, you have the guts to stand here and open your mouth and tell me “I am now a Christian?” She mimics him. “Rejecting me for that…that bitch, you call Bola?”

Gboyega looks at her, anger seeping into his veins. “Kofo, any word from you again and you will have yourself to blame.”

Kofo claps her hands. “Right? He’s got guts now.” She fakes a shiver. “I’m scared.”

“Kofo, please I beg you in the name of those you hold dear, leave Bola alone.” Gboyega pleads.

Kofo raises her chin with pride. “And you?”

Gboyega refuses to answer and begins to button his shirt. He sits down on his bed, picks up his socks and wears it.

Kofo sneers. “I thought as much.” She picks up her bag from the table. “You have not heard the last of me.” She says as she storms out of the room, slamming the door behind her.

Gboyega raises up his head from the trainers he is lacing as the door slams. He looks upwards. “God, I thought I was through with this.” He picks up his knapsack, slings it over his shoulder and walks out of his room. As he strolls towards the bus-stop, he remembers how Kofo had waltzed into his life over three years ago.

School had been on vacation when he got invited to a high-profile party somewhere in Lagos. It was a house party and according to his friend, the party was going to be attended by the who’s who in town. His friend told him that the party was strictly by invitation, so he should consider it a priviledge that he was attending.

Gboyega had been mesmerized by the beauty of the house. It was a duplex with ten rooms, all en-suite. The ground floor had two large living rooms, a ballroom and a lounge for receiving visitors. At the entrance of the house, there was a massive Olympic sized pool. Scantily dressed ladies hung around the pool with pot-bellied men. Every furniture in the house screamed class and Gboyega wondered which politician owned the house. His friend had his arms around a girl’s waist as he handed him a drink, encouraged him to have fun and disappeared. Sweaty bodies danced in the ballroom, one of the living rooms had young guys and girls already stoned on marijuana while the bedrooms had pot-bellied men making out with girls old enough to be their daughters. He moved around the house like a lost child and at a point he got bored. He walked up to the patio overlooking the lagoon and stood there to take in the freshness of the night breeze.

He had been lost in his own world when a lady walked up to him breaking into his thoughts. “Hello handsome, need company?”

He looked at the lady standing before him. She was beautiful and towered a few inches above him. Her eyes sparkled from the reflection of the water and her teeth shone bright when she smiled. The breeze blew her weaves and they slapped her face in a carefree manner. He shrugged in response to her question.

“Looks like you ain’t enjoying the party.” She said.

He wasn’t sure who she was and he did not want to sound rude. “I just needed to get some fresh air.” He responded.

They both stood on the patio looking at the water. Different colours of light from the house illuminated it revealing a picturesque environment. She asked what he did for a living and he said he was still a student. She began to talk about campus life and lecturers and he assumed she was also a student invited to the party. They exchanged numbers, introduced themselves to each other and then she left him to his solitude.

Hours later, when Gboyega could no longer contain his boredom, he left the mansion without his friend.

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Blind Pact – Prologue

“Lord, what have I done wrong? Why is this happening to me? Where did I miss it? I need your help, Lord. Please strengthen me”.

Prologue

Banke looks at her daughter helplessly. Tears pool in her eyes as she sees her hurting. “Bola, I understand how you feel. But you cannot continue to beat yourself over this”. Banke says holding her daughter’s hands as she struggles to put her own emotions in check. She wishes she could erase the pain her daughter is going through. How did the course of their lives suddenly go downhill?

Bola looks at her mum but sees no one. Her mind is faraway. Tears stream down her cheeks and her mother looks away trying to hide her own tears which were beginning to make its way down her face. I have to be strong for her. I cannot breakdown. Oh Lord, please help her ease her pain. She closes her eyes as she does a little prayer within the confines of her heart.

Bola kneels down in a bid to pray but breaks down into uncontrollable tears. “Oh God, why-why do I have-have to suffer this-this way?” She struggles to say in between body wracking sobs.

If only the last few days of her life could be erased. If only destiny would allow her remake the turn of events in her life. If only her life could go back to being perfect the way it was about three years ago.

********

Three years ago, Bola attended an upscale secondary school in Lagos state. She was in Grade 12 and was preparing to write her certificate exams in a few months. Being the only child of her parents, they doted on her and gave her all she desired. She lacked nothing and in return, she ensured that her parents were never disappointed. She gave her best in her academics and stood out among her peers. She was the typical well-behaved, obedient and good child.

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Second Chances – The Finale

Hi,

Thanks for following me on this story of jealousy, abusive relationships, commitment and the fight for true love thus far.

Second Chances has been published and the concluding story can be found on Amazon kindle.

Find out what happens to Kunbi, Ola and Sola in this love triangle suspense-filled story by clicking on the image below.

You would be directed to purchase the book on Amazon.

 Buy-on-Amazon

Second Chances can also be purchased on the following platforms;

  Buy-on-Okadabooks       Buy-on-Smashwords

Kindly click on any of the images above and you would be directed to the book where you can get a copy.

We will begin another journey into the love department next week.

Do keep following, kindly share and don’t forget to send me your reviews. I would truly appreciate that.

Thank you.

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Second Chances – Episode 8

Wale paces round the reception of the hospital restlessly. Many thoughts run through his mind. “Who could have done this?” “I shouldn’t have left her alone at home”. “Why didn’t I get home earlier?” Worry lines are etched deeply into his face as he punches his left palm in anger. Sola who is seated isn’t any better. He checks his wrist watch intermittently and looks towards the door where Kunbi was wheeled through some minutes ago. Time seems to tick slowly and he shifts in his seat uncomfortably.

After a long wait, the doctor walks into the reception and asks them to follow him into his office. Sola jumps to his feet as Wale takes long strides after the doctor. The doctor offers both of them seats in his office but they both decline.

“How is she?” Wale asks anxiously.

“Is she okay? Can we see her?” Sola asks.

“Take it easy, gentlemen. There is no reason to be worried. She’s okay”.

“Can we see her now then?” Sola asks again.

“She has been moderately sedated as she’s traumatized and needs to rest”. The doctor answers.

“How bad are the injuries?” Wale asks with a frown on his face.

“Nothing life threatening. She has been placed on pain killers”.

Sola sighs.

“She would be fine. I assure you”. The doctor says smiling. “If you don’t mind, please excuse me”. The doctor walks out of his office as Wale and Sola share a look of resignation. As they both walk back to the reception, Wale asks; “Any ideas on the culprit?”

“None”. Sola responds lost in thought. “I am still baffled, though”.

“How do you mean?”

“This is premeditated. I had just left the house probably fifteen minutes before when I realized I had forgotten my phone and turned back”.

“I swear if I get my hands on whoever it is, I’ll design his face worse than he did hers”. Wale says fuming.

“Could the person have been hanging around and waiting for me to leave? So much damage in just about fifteen to twenty minutes?” Sola says talking to himself.

“I have a bad feeling about this”.

Sola looks at Wale confused.

“My instincts tell me it could have been Ola”.

“Wale! How can you say that? You’re taking your dislike for this guy too far”. Sola says in amazement.

“I know what I’m saying”. Wale insists.

“C’mon. How can Ola do this to Kunbi? You had better not let her hear this. She’s going to be really mad at you this time”.

“You don’t know this guy. He’s such a jealous and insecure animal. He manhandled her once simply because you called her while she was with him”.

“But that was some time ago”. Sola says.

“This is not out of place for him to do. And be certain, if I find out from Kunbi that he’s responsible, hmmmm…..he’s a dead man”. Wale says in anger.

Sola pats his friend on the back. “Take it easy, man. Let’s just pray she is okay”.

Wale nods as he relaxes. “Yeah, that’s most important right now. Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it”.

“Hey, what are we friends for?” Sola says as he nudges him.

“I think you should go on to your girlfriend’s. Since the doctor says she needs to rest, there’s really nothing to be done here”.

“True”.

“I’ll get here early tomorrow to be with her in case she needs anything. Hopefully, she should be discharged soon”.

“I’ll meet you here tomorrow then. Please take care of her”.

“Thanks a lot. I appreciate your concern”.

 

Sola walks into the hospital premises at 5.00pm the next day. His shirt has been rolled up while the knot of his tie has been loosened. He stops at the reception to ask for Kunbi’s room and he is directed. As he gets to her room, he taps on the door gently, opens it slightly and peeps in. “Can I come in?” He asks when he sees Wale sitting on the bed and talking earnestly with Kunbi.

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“Of course, you can”. Wale answers.

“How are you beauty?” Sola says as he walks to the other side of the bed and gives her a light kiss on the cheek.

“I’m better, thanks”. Kunbi responds as she uses her hands to cover her face.

Wale gives Sola a cursory glance as he raises his brow.

Sola shrugs as he also wonders.

“I am sorry you are seeing me this way”. Kunbi says hiding behind her hands.

“Okay?” Wale acknowledges. “This is definitely for Sola”.

“I carried you in my arms while you were unconscious, so you don’t need to hide behind your hands”. Sola says smiling as he removes her hands from her face. “So, who did this to you?”

“Good question. Maybe she’ll tell you. She has refused to tell me the bastard who did this”.

“Wales, take it easy. I’ll tell you at the right time”. Kunbi says with pleading eyes.

“Right time? What other time is right besides now? Ehn, tell me. What other time?” He asks standing up from the bed in anger.

“Wale, I think you should listen to her. She’s probably right”. Sola says.

“I know I’m right”.

“Kunbi, you can take as long as you want. Whether now or later, be rest assured that whoever did this will pay for it”.

Kunbi tries to sit up but winces as she feels pain. “Wales, I think you should go home and rest. You need it. You are stressed already”. She strains as she tries to lie back.

Wale and Sola both rush to assist her in laying back.

“Okay, Kunbi. I will let go for now”. Wale says. “I need you to get better and come home. That is most important”.

“Thanks Wales”.

“I’m really tired. Sola will keep you company. I need to go home now”. He says yawning.

“When am I leaving here? I’m missing home already”. Kunbi asks.

“The doctor said you’ll be discharged tomorrow; so I’ll pick you up at about noon”. He hugs her gently so as not to cause her any more pain. “Take care darling”.

“Goodnight”. She says smiling.

“You are free to take over from here”. Wale says to Sola.

Sola smiles and shrugs. “You bet I will”.

As Wale walks out of the room, Sola sits down on the lone chair beside Kunbi. He holds her hand and asks; “Don’t tell me he did this to you?”

Kunbi looks at him with surprise. “Who did?”

“C’mon Kunbi. Why did you refuse to tell him if it wasn’t Ola?”

“You’re right. It’s Ola”. She says sighing.

“My goodness”. Sola gasps.

“Wales would not mind travelling to Ibadan this night and he won’t leave Ola until he’s probably confirmed dead. I am not ready to turn my cousin into a murderer”.

“Yeah. I feel you. I know Wale cares about you but he will still get to know one way or the other”.

“Not if you don’t tell him”.

“Why would I? It won’t be long for him to figure it out, though. He mentioned that his instincts told him Ola was responsible”.

“You see why he should not get to know yet. Besides, Ola would be nursing his wounds as well”. She says smiling.

“His wounds?” Sola asks confused.

“Yes, didn’t you guys notice the broken flower vase?”

“We did but we thought it was a victim of the struggle”.

“Well, it was a victim but I used it on Ola’s head when it seemed he was going to kill me”.

“Really? You are a strong woman and you thought very fast even in that situation”. Sola says smiling.

“Yeah, I had to. If I hadn’t, you would have found me dead”.

“God forbid. I can’t stand loosing you”.

Kunbi gently removes her hands from Sola’s hands and looks away. “So, how is your girlfriend?” She asks changing the topic.

“She’s fine”. Sola says frowning.

Kunbi notices the excitement in his voice is gone and turns back to look at him. “When do I get to meet her or are you still hiding her from our prying eyes?” She asks smiling.

“No, I’m not hiding her. The doctor is discharging you tomorrow, right? He asks.

“Are you intentionally changing the topic?” She looks at him curiously.

“No, I am not”.

“What are you hiding, Sola?”

“I am not hiding anything”. He says as he stands up and turns his back to Kunbi.

“Then why are you avoiding my questions”.

“It is rather unfortunate that you may never get to meet her”.

“Why? What happened? What did you do to her?” Kunbi asks anxious.

Sola shrugs. “Nothing”.

“What do you mean by nothing? Sola, look at me. What happened? Please tell me”. Kunbi says as she winces in pain trying to lift herself up.

Sola takes a deep breath as he rushes to her side and props her up with a pillow. “I don’t know where I went wrong. I told you I wanted to give her a surprise visit, right?” He says looking at her.

“Yes, I remember you said so”.

“Well, I got to her apartment and got the shock of my life”. Sola says as he replays the event of the previous day in his mind.

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