The Wait – Chapter 1

“Do you, Ajoke Omolewa, take Enitan Boluwatife to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in health, to honour him, submit to him, keeping yourself solely unto him and forsaking all others as long as you both shall live? If so, answer “Yes, I do.” The registrar spoke with a smile on his face. He knew the answer to the question; he had never seen anyone who did not answer in the affirmative.

Ajoke opened her mouth to speak, but she was unable to form the words the minister, her family members and Enitan waited to hear. Her eyes were trained on the man who had just walked into the registry and sat quietly at the end of the hall. He had walked in unnoticed but Ajoke’s attention towards him was beginning to attract stares in his direction.

One by one, Ajoke’s family members comprising her father, her mother, her six elder brothers and her two teenage children looked back to find out what had caught her attention. Enitan, also confused at the sudden change in Ajoke’s mien, looked in the same direction. He could not recognize the stranger, and he wondered why the man’s presence had suddenly affected Ajoke. He turned to look at his bride and saw tears streaming down her made-up face. What on earth is going on?

Suddenly, there were quick movements in the hall. Ajoke’s aged father was struggling to get up, his face taut and his jaw set but Ajoke’s brothers were faster. Ajoke’s youngest brother touched the father’s shoulder and slid his right palm down his chest repeatedly. Their father took the cue and relaxed in his seat. His sons were capable of handling the situation. The six brothers stood up one by one and marched towards the end of the hall.

Ajoke, knowing what her brothers were capable of doing, left Enitan and the registrar at the podium and started running towards the end of the hall.

“Ajoke!!!” Enitan called as he watched her break into a run.

She stopped to look back at Enitan, tears streaming down her face and drawing black lines on her wet cheeks as a result of smeared mascara; her eyes pled for understanding but the plea only made Enitan more confused.

Enitan looked around for answers. Who was this guy whose sudden presence had stalled his wedding? He looked at Ajoke’s parents and searched their faces for something he could grasp. Ajoke’s mother slumped her shoulders as she watched an imaginary being in her open hands while her father’s neck was stretched to the back as he trained his attention on the on-goings down the hall.

Ajoke reached the end of the hall just as her eldest brother, Adisa held the stranger by his tie, rough handling him. The stranger coughed as Adisa held him by the neck. He refused to hold Adisa’s hand or try to stop Ajoke’s brother from strangling him.

“What are you doing here, you bastard?” Adisa asked, gritting his teeth to contain his anger.

The stranger only looked at Adisa without a word or plea. Ajoke’s brothers had gathered round, but no one stopped Adisa from his bid to strangle him. Ajoke pushed through the circle and knelt before her eldest brother.

“Bòdá mi, ë jò ó, ë má pa á.

“My brother, please don’t kill him.”

“Will you go back to the front and continue with your wedding?” Adisa said to Ajoke, his eyes blazing.

“I will, but please don’t kill him,” Ajoke said, her face now a total mess.

Adisa refused to let go of the stranger.

“Àdìsá, fi sílè.

“Adisa, leave him alone,” Their father said authoritatively. He had trudged down the hall after Ajoke had broken into a run. He reached the end of the hall panting and sweating in the air-conditioned room. His wife had not accompanied him as she now stood, talking to the registrar, the groom, his elder brother, his uncle and aunt. Her hands were clasped as she pleaded with them. They all looked at her through the confusion clearly written on their faces.

“Ehn, Bàámi kí lë sö?

“Daddy, what did you say?” Adisa asked, as he looked at his father with anger.

“Mo ní ko fi sílè. 

“I said you should leave him alone.”

Adisa squeezed the stranger’s neck once more with new strength making the man gasp before releasing him. The man coughed as he loosened his tie and rubbed his neck. His face was sober as he looked at Ajoke’s father. As the old man’s tired eyes met his, the stranger dropped his gaze and lay flat on the floor. Ajoke’s father sighed deeply and shook his head.

“Bàámi, ë jò ó, mo fé ba s’òrò”

“My father, please I want to talk to him,” Ajoke said to her father.

Ajoke’s father nodded to show affirmation and turned back.

“I would like to talk to him alone. Please,” she said when her brothers refused to leave.

“You better know what you are doing.” Adisa advised Ajoke. “And as for you,” he said pointing towards the stranger. “I will still deal with you.”

Ajoke watched her brothers as they all filed back to the front of the hall, leaving her and the stranger alone. Her brothers, however, kept their eyes on them as they monitored their discussion from afar. As she turned to look at him, he knelt before her and tried to hold her hand. “Don’t touch me, Adejoro,” she said.

“I know I have hurt you deeply, but please hear me out.”

“Hear you out? What could you possibly have to say? Hmm….Adejoro. What?”

“Ajoke please.”

“Adejoro, what did I do to you to deserve this? What was my offence? Tell me.” She sobbed.

“Ajoke, it is not what you think?”

“I gave up everything and gave you my all. But you trampled it under your feet and threw it back in my face. Just look down the hall” – She said nodding towards the front. “Did your children come here? Did they acknowledge your presence?”

Adejoro looked towards the front pews and sighed. So those are my children? He placed his hands on his head and bowed his head in shame. His children did not recognize him. They did not know who their father was. Fifteen years was a long time for any man to abandon his family. He knew he had messed up, but he wanted to make it right if Ajoke could give him an opportunity to.

*****

As Ajoke looked at his bowed head, she remembered how she had fallen in love with Kokumo nineteen years ago. Both of them had attended the same secondary school in Ayobo, a village in the Alimosho local government area of Lagos state, Nigeria. The village which had now grown into a suburb had mostly low-income earners as residents. Ajoke’s parents had struggled to send her to school as they barely had enough to eat with seven children. Her mother had given birth to Adisa, two sets of twin boys and another boy before having her. Her father tapped palm-wine for a living while her mother processed garri. The little they made from the sales of palm wine and garri was used to feed the large family.

As much as her father valued education, he had told all his children that the best he could do was to educate them up to the secondary level. After that, he encouraged each one of them to go learn a trade. Her elder brothers had all learnt one trade or the other, but Ajoke being the last child and only girl, had been confined to helping her mother at her garri business so it could thrive.

*

Kokumo was an Abiku. His parents said he always died at birth and returned to torment his mother again, and again. To stop the scourge of death, the sixth child was marked before burying, a normal tradition among the Yoruba. Even though, Kokumo did not return with the mark (as it was believed would happen), he was still named Kokumo, – meaning will not die again. After his birth, his mother decided to give childbearing a wide berth. Kokumo’s father was a peasant farmer while his mother sold seasonal fruits which were planted and harvested by her husband.

Kokumo and Ajoke attended the same secondary school but only became acquainted with each other in their senior secondary class. They were both in the Arts class and did the same subjects, which drew them close together. Ajoke’s parents had been unable to afford to buy her textbooks, so Kokumo was always on hand to share or lend her his books. They became reading partners and within a short period of time, love found them.

Each day, they both trekked a great distance which took them about an hour to get home from school. Kokumo lived in Ikola, another village adjacent from Ayobo; the forked junction between their villages served as the end point before each faced the journey home alone.

*

Ajoke looked at the man before her, her husband of three years and father of her children. What a wasted life she had lived married to him? She and Kokumo had been denied of their young love and she had been married off to Adejoro because her father, mother and elder brother had said he was ‘man enough to take care of her’.

As the tears began to make their way down her cheeks again, her mind found its way back in time to when Kokumo meant the whole world to her.

——–
The story continues…..

I am glad to have you here. Yippee…. 💃💃💃

The story continues, however in print form.

As you can see from the comments, a few have ‘waited’ for ‘The Wait’ 😁   Yes, I can say that 😉

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The Wait for The Wait is over!

*

Yours in writing ✍️

Olúbùkólá

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

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 22

‘Did you girls have fun?’ Alex asked; looking back at the girls who were seated behind. He was riding shotgun as Jide drove them back to campus.

‘Yeah, I loved the movie. Grace has good taste.’

Grace smiled. ‘It was fun.’

‘So will you oblige that we do this again sometime soon?’

Grace looked at Ayotunde. ‘Of course.’ Ayotunde danced to an imaginary sound.

‘Thank you. I will be glad.’

Jide parked the car in front of the girls’ hostel.

‘You both made my day.’ Alex smiled. ‘Please think about somewhere else I may like to see. A tourist attraction or so.’ He said looking at Grace.

‘I will.’

‘Thank you Alex. We would call you when next we are free. For how long will you be in naija?’ Ayotunde asked.

‘I’m hoping I can conclude my project in a month.’

‘Okay then. Thanks once again.’

‘No, you and Grace deserve the thanks.’ He said as he smiled at them.

*

As the girls eased out of the car, Chinwe saw them from afar. She began to run towards them. Jide was about driving away when she got to them. ‘Hiiiii Alex.’ She said breathlessly.

Alex looked at her and smiled. ‘Hi Chinwe. How are you doing?’

‘I am good.’ She said as she patted her face. ‘Are you taking them out now? I thought we agreed that I would show you around Lagos. I kept waiting for your call.’

‘We had no agreement Chinwe. I said I would call you if I needed help.’

Chinwe faked a laugh. ‘Okay. So should I expect your call soon?’

Alex shrugged as he waved his hand and asked Jide to continue driving.

*

‘So this is what you girls want to do. You want to snatch him from me, abi? Your plan will never work.’ Chinwe shouted at the top of her voice.

Ayotunde and Grace looked at her with shock.

‘You cannot talk now, abi? Dem put padlock for una mouth?’

Grace began to walk away but Chinwe dragged her back.

Ayotunde hit Chinwe’s hand hard and she lost her grip on Grace. Chinwe became furious and started moving towards Ayotunde.

‘Chin-we, Chin-we, you no know me. Go ask them who Ayotunde be for Ajegunle. If you try touch Grace again, I go show you who I be for this campus.’ Ayotunde said as she stood nose to nose with Chinwe.

Chinwe stepped back and hissed. ‘So na common Ajegunle girl you be? Shior!’

‘Yes, na Ajegunle girl I be and I no shame to talk am. You just try me for this campus and I go show you say I no be butter.’

Chinwe started walking away. When she got to where Grace stood shivering, she looked at her from top to bottom and spat on the ground.

Ayotunde walked furiously towards her and Chinwe broke into a run. ‘This girl don craze.’ She said as she ran.

‘Let’s go inside.’ Ayotunde said as she held her friend by her hand and led her into the room.

*

‘Thank you.’ Grace said; tears gathering at the corner of her eyes.

‘Hey, what are we friends for? No one messes with my bestie and goes free.’

Grace wiped the tears which were now spilling on to her cheeks. ‘Did you truly live in Ajegunle?’

‘Yes, I did.’

‘Is that where your parents are? Ayorinde doesn’t like talking about them.’

Ayotunde shrugged. ‘Because there is nothing to talk about.’

‘Don’t you miss them?’

‘I miss my dad. I talk to him once in a while.’

‘And your mum?’

‘What are we having for dinner? Let me get something for us to eat.’ She said ignoring the question. She was about to step out of the room when she looked at Grace. ‘Don’t mention what happened this evening to Ayorinde, please.’

Grace nodded. ‘Okay.’

Ayotunde smiled. ‘C’mon cheer up.’

*******

Alex spoke with Grace and Ayotunde every other day on the phone asking about their studies. He told them his project was proving difficult but that he knew he would definitely overcome. Ayorinde also made sure he called Grace every night. They talked for hours on the phone until Grace dozed off with the phone to her ear. Most times, Ayotunde removed the phone from Grace’s hand while she was asleep and kept it by her bedside.

A week later; Alex, Grace and Ayotunde visited the Lekki Conservation Centre. Grace almost had a seizure on the long canopy walk. When they got off the canopy, Ayotunde laughed out loud. She told Grace that she needed to have more guts.

They decided to take a rest and Ayotunde asked to be excused. She needed to use the restroom. When she was gone, Alex smiled as he looked at Grace.

‘You were really scared up there, right?’

‘Yeah!’ She said raising her eyebrows. ‘Ayotunde is a crazy girl. I don’t understand how she isn’t scared of anything.’

Alex laughed. ‘She is truly one tough cookie. You know I like you girls a lot. You have made my stay here worthwhile.’

Grace blushed. ‘Thanks.’

‘And I really like you.’ Alex said as he moved closer to her.

‘Erm….don’t you think you are seating too close?’ Grace scooted away from him.

‘I’m serious Grace. I think I am falling in love with you.’

Grace coughed. ‘I’m sorry? You said what?’

‘C’mon Grace, you heard me the first time.’

‘Oh goodness, this is not happening.’ She said as she put her hand on her forehead.

‘Why?’ Alex asked as he removed her hand from her head.

‘Alex, I have a boyfriend.’

‘So? Is he serious with you?’

Grace frowned. ‘Yes, he is serious. And just so you know, he is Ayotunde’s elder brother.’

‘Oh wow!’

‘Yes, wow! So I am going to pretend this conversation never happened. Okay?’

‘But…..’ Alex was saying when he was interrupted.

‘Guys, so where were we?’ Ayotunde said walking up to them happily.

‘We were ready to go home.’ Grace said as she stood up.

‘So early?’

Grace looked at Alex. ‘I thought you said you were ready to take us back to school.’

Alex sighed. ‘Yes.’ He said as he stood up.

******

When they got to the hostel, the girls waved at Alex and Jide drove off. The expression on Grace’s face was blank while Ayotunde was all smiles.

‘Grace, what happened while I was away? You changed towards Alex all of a sudden.’ Ayotunde asked as they walked into the room.

Grace looked at Ayotunde without giving a response. She lay on her bed and turned her back to her. ‘I told you hanging out with him was a bad idea.’

‘I don’t understand.’

Grace faced her friend. ‘The guy was talking about falling in love when you went to the rest room.’

‘Seriously?’

‘Yes. I just knew hanging out with him wasn’t a good idea. But my friend was excited and made us do it.’

‘C’mon don’t be dramatic. We both had fun hanging out.’

Grace sat up. ‘Yes, we did but I love your brother. Don’t you get that?’

Ayotunde smiled as she stood up and hugged her friend. ‘I love you too.’

******

 Aderemi called her sister later that evening.

‘Hey sis.’

‘Are you alone?’ Aderemi asked.

‘Yes, why?’

‘Where are your roommates?’

‘Ayotunde went for an evening tutorial. The others went for a party outside campus.’

‘Okay. I just wanted to be sure you are alone.’ Aderemi reiterated.

“What’s going on sis? Is Daddy okay?’

‘He is fine. I called because of your boyfriend.’

‘What about him?’

Aderemi took a deep breath. ‘He was the one that attacked me years ago at Kingsway with a gun.’

‘What? I don’t understand what you are saying.’

‘You were still little and there was no need to bore you with the details the next morning. I’m sure you remember Folake, my friend.’

‘I think so.’ Grace hesitated.

‘I went to her send forth party. I was robbed that night by your boyfriend. He was with someone else who was much younger and sincerely, I don’t know if it was your friend. They took my bag, phones, everything at Kingsway bus-stop at the traffic light. I had nightmares after that incident. Thankfully, it stopped after a while. Since I came back from the U.S, I have been having those same nightmares again. And it started after I met your boyfriend. Daddy was a little worried and wanted me to see a therapist but I refused. Last night, I had the same nightmare again and this time, I saw your boyfriend clearly. I mentioned to you that his face was familiar but you did not believe me. I knew I had seen those eyes before. It was so clear to me this time. I’m sorry Grace. You have to stop seeing him. He is not the person he claims he is.’

Aderemi thought the call had dropped as Grace was quiet.

‘Grace, Grace…..’

‘Yes sis. I don’t know what to say. I find this hard to believe.’

‘I know you do but you have to believe me and stop seeing him.

‘I can’t sis. I love him. I’m sorry.’

‘Grace, have I ever done anything to hurt you?’

‘No.’ Grace sighed.

‘Then believe me. He is no good for you. Stay away from him.’

‘I…..I can’t.’

‘Then, I would have no choice but to tell Daddy.’

“Sis, you promised!’ Grace cried.

‘I’m sorry too Grace. The situation is different and I want the best for you. I love you too much to allow you fall into a ditch while I watch.’

‘Sis, don’t do this.’

‘Good night darling.’ Aderemi said as she cut the call.


The story continues…

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 20

Alex picked up his luggage from the airport baggage carousel. He looked around and smiled; it was good to be home. He rolled his luggage beside him and walked out of the airport. He hailed an airport taxi and reeled out the address of the Airport hotel.

‘No worry, Oga. I know where you dey go.’ The cab driver said as he stepped out of the car. He opened his boot quickly and dumped Alex’s luggage into it. ‘Go sit inside moto, Oga.’

Alex eased into the car deciding to ride shotgun. He was fascinated by the high rise buildings and he nodded and smiled.

‘Oga, na your first time be dis?’

‘Yes, it is.’ Alex smiled as he looked at the driver.

‘Ah, Oga. This our country na fine country. Just that our leaders no good.’

‘Hmm…’ Alex nodded.

‘We don reach the hotel.’ The driver pointed as he collected a parking tag from the security at the gate. The gate bars were lifted and he drove to the front porch of the hotel. ‘Make I give you my number. Just call me anytime you wan go out. I go come carry you.’

‘Okay?’

The driver reeled out his number and Alex punched it into his phone. He had bought a sim at the airport and he decided to test it. He dialed the number given to him and the driver showed it to him. ‘I don see your number, Oga. Quick quick, you don collect naija number.’ He said excitedly.

‘Yes, I got it at the airport. How much is my bill?’

‘Na just 5k sir.’

‘Wow, isn’t that a lot of money for a short journey?’

‘Ha Oga!’ The driver laughed. ‘Na airport taxi oh. Instead make you just dey waka waka inside airport, na premium service I give you wey I come carry you for front of arrival terminal with car wey get AC. You know you no suppose feel our naija heat.’

‘Hmm…’ Alex grunted as he pulled out his wallet, took out some five hundred and one thousand naira notes and scrutinized them.

‘Na that one wey dey your right hand be one thousand naira. The one wey dey your left na five hundred naira.’

Alex looked at the driver and smiled his thanks. He pulled out four more pieces of the one thousand naira notes from his wallet. ‘What’s your name?’

‘Jide.’

‘Okay Je-day. Thank you.’ Alex said as he handed over the cash to him.

A porter was already waiting to receive Alex’s luggage. Jide pocketed the cash and eased out of the car quickly to open the booth. He took out the boxes and handed them over to the porter.

‘Thank you Oga. No forget to call me oh.’ Jide called out as Alex eased out of the car and walked into the hotel.

******

‘Where you wan go, Oga?’ Jide asked Alex as he sat in the taxi the next morning.

‘I just want to go sight-seeing. I don’t have any place in mind.’ Alex replied.

‘Hmm….make I carry you go beach. We get fine beach for Lagos and maybe you go even try our food sef. You fit chop pepper?’

‘A little.’

‘Correct!’ Jide laughed as he drove out of the hotel premises. ‘I go carry you go chop. You go chop pepper soup, correct buka iyan with efo elemi meje, nkwobi, suya……

‘Am I eating all this today?’ Alex asked cutting him short.

‘Ha, if your stomok fit carry all, why not?’

‘We’ll see when we get there.’ Alex said as he took out his camera and started capturing shots of the city.

*

The traffic on Ikorodu road was a long stretch and Jide decided to take a shorter route. ‘I wan pass inside Yaba. Dem don talk am for radio this morning dat traffic dey third mainland bridge. I no even understand wetin dey cause traffic for this Lagos. You go reach front, you no go see anything.’

‘Is that right?’

‘Yes oh. Nothing go dey front, meanwhile traffic go dey. Lagos traffic no dey get sense.’

Alex laughed. ‘Is that a University?’ He asked pointing when he saw students walking in and out of a campus.

‘Yes, na Unilag be dat?’

‘Wow! Can I have a look?’

‘You wan make we go inside?’

‘Yeah, I just want to have a look and see how a University in Nigeria looks like.’ Alex shrugged.

‘Okay.’ Jide replied as he did a detour and faced the University of Lagos.

As they drove in, Alex picked up his camera and began to take pictures. He asked Jide to drive slowly so he could capture the beauty of the environment.

‘Wow, look at that.’ Alex said as he pointed to the area overlooking the lagoon. ‘I want to go there.’

‘We no go reach beach today oh, Oga.’

‘Don’t worry, we will. Park here.’ Alex instructed. He eased out of the car, walked towards the seating area and starting taking shots.

He was about walking back to the car when he saw some students performing a drama at a corner. He noticed they were oblivious of his presence so he decided to watch them and capture a few shots.

‘Okay guys.’ Let’s call it a day and meet tomorrow same time. The guy dressed in a black tee-shirt on a pair of washed jeans who seemed like their leader spoke. He shook the hands of the guys and gave the ladies a high-five. The three guys who had been acting plus their leader dispersed in groups of twos in different directions, leaving three girls behind.

The girls chatted excitedly and Alex smiled. He was about to walk away when one of the girls looked in his direction. He was immediately struck by her beauty. He looked at his wrist watch. The time read 3:30pm. He shrugged as he decided to walk towards them. If he couldn’t make it to the beach today, he would go tomorrow.

‘Hi.’ Alex said as he got to where the girls were seated.

‘Hello.’ The girl who had looked in his direction responded.

‘I was watching you all and I must say I loved the acting. It was beautiful.’

‘Thank you.’ Another girl responded.

‘My name is Alex.’ He said as he stretched out his hand. ‘I am visiting Nigeria for the first time.’

The girls looked at each other. ‘My name is Ayotunde. Welcome to Nigeria, Alex.’

‘Thank you. Ayot…’ Alex hesitated.

Ayotunde laughed. ‘Ayo is fine.’

Alex smiled and looked at the others.

‘I’m Samantha.’ The second girl stretched her hand as she smiled at Alex. Her friends looked at her with shock on their faces.

Alex took her hand. ‘Hi Samantha. You act good.’

‘Thank you.’ She replied as she held on to his hand.

Alex looked at the third girl and tried to pull his hand from Samantha’s grip. Ayotunde noticed and jabbed her with her elbow. Samantha faked a laugh as she dropped Alex’s hand.

Alex stretched out his hand.

‘I’m Grace.’

‘Grace. That is a beautiful name.’

‘Thank you.’ Grace replied.

‘I hope you are having fun in Nigeria. Where have you been to? Which country are you from? You look Nigerian.’ Samantha bombarded Alex with questions.

Alex laughed as he looked at her. ‘Hey, one question at a time.’

‘Okay. We are all ears.’ Samantha gesticulated.

‘I just got in yesterday and was actually on my way to the beach.’

‘Nice. Do you have company?’ Samantha asked.

Ayotunde and Grace shared a glance.

‘No, I don’t have company. The taxi driver decided to take me there.’

‘Can we join you?’

‘Chinwe!!!’ Ayotunde and Grace shouted at the same time.

‘Chinwe? Is that also your name?’ Alex asked as he looked at Samantha.

‘Yeah, kind of but I don’t really use that name. It’s just on my birth certificate. Everyone calls me Samantha. Sam for short, if you like.’ She laughed as she touched Alex gingerly on the arm.

Ayotunde rolled her eyes while Grace hissed.

‘I don’t mind the company though. Someone else apart from Je-day to show me around.’

‘Who is Je-day?’ Grace asked.

‘Oh, the taxi driver who picked me at the airport yesterday. He is waiting around the corner. I told him I just wanted to capture some shots.’

Grace smiled. ‘I’m sure his name is Jide, not Je-day.’

‘Ji-de.’ Alex tried to pronounce the name just like Grace.

‘Yeah, better.’ She laughed.

‘So are we coming with you?’ Chinwe asked.

Ayotunde stood up. ‘It was nice meeting you Alex. I’m sure you would have fun in Nigeria.’

Grace stood up and picked up her bag. ‘Welcome to Nigeria, Alex.’

‘Ahn…ahn…are you girls going?’ Chinwe asked.

‘Erm…..Ayotunde and I have something to do in our room.’ Grace replied.

‘Yeah. Besides, I only came to watch your show. I have work to do and lectures later today.’ Ayotunde replied. ‘Goodbye Alex.’ She said as she waved at him.

‘Can I at least have your number? I understand if you girls are busy.’ Alex asked trying to fall in line with the duo who were already walking away.

Grace looked at Ayotunde. Alex stretched out his phone and Ayotunde collected it, punched in her number and handed the phone back to Alex.

He dialed the number, tapped the red button and stretched the phone to Grace. ‘Yours too, please?’

Grace did same as Ayotunde and handed the phone back to Alex.

‘Thank you ladies. I appreciate.’

Chinwe was already by his side. ‘I’m ready. She said as she flicked her weaves.’

‘That’s fine. The taxi is somewhere around.’ Alex said as she looked at the two girls walking away.

*****

‘When did she become Samantha?’ Grace asked Ayotunde as they walked towards the cafeteria.

Ayotunde stopped walking and looked at her friend. ‘Ask her nau, sebi she is your friend?’

Grace stopped walking. ‘She is not my friend. She is my course mate. Understood?’

The two girls looked at each other with serious faces and suddenly burst out into laughter.

‘Just see the way she was shaking like someone wey neva see man before.’ Ayotunde shook her body like someone who had a fever.

‘As in, Samantha nko, Samanja ni.’ Grace laughed. ‘I almost didn’t believe it was the same Chin-we, Chin-we.’ She said stressing the name.

……….

The story continues…

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 19

After much persuasion, Mr. Johnson agreed that his daughter, Grace apply to the University of Lagos to study Theatre Arts. Classes began in earnest. Grace and Ayotunde made efforts to get the same room and stuck to each other when they were not having lectures. Even though Mr. Johnson’s intention for Grace was not to live on campus, she convinced him by telling him that her best friend was living on campus. Grace also informed her father that she felt she would be more focused while in the campus environment. Mr. Johnson agreed reluctantly.

*

In about four months, Aderemi was ready to return to Nigeria. A flurry of activities began to welcome her back home. Grace sought the help of her best friend to organize a mini welcome party. Knowing that her sister wasn’t going to be so excited about the party, she decided to make it one for only family and a few friends.

Grace and Ayotunde went to the airport with Mr. Solomon to pick up Aderemi. Grace mentioned to their dad that Aderemi not seeing her at the airport would raise suspicions. Aderemi was glad to see her sister and her friend. Both girls chatted with Aderemi asking her questions after questions until they arrived home.

Grace led the way as they got home. As she got to the front of the main door, she opened the door and asked her sister to go in.

‘Welcome home’ rent the air as Aderemi walked into the house. Aderemi was both surprised and happy. The living room had been decorated with balloons which had the welcome home inscription. The balloons were in her favourite colours of blue and black. Two of Aderemi’s friends were in attendance and they were excited to see her as they hugged her tight.

Aderemi saw her father smiling at a corner of the room and she squeezed herself out of her friends’ grip as she made a beeline for him. He hugged her as he kissed her on her forehead.

‘I’m glad you are home, my Princess.’ He said, his smile reaching his eyes.

‘I’m glad to be back too, Dad. I feel like I was away for too long.’ She laughed as she hugged her dad again. ‘This was Grace’s idea, I’m sure.’ She said spreading out her hands round the living room.

‘Your sister is as strong-headed as you are.’

‘Daddy, I hear my name over there.’ Grace said as she walked towards her father

‘We are just admiring your party.’ Aderemi shrugged.

‘Thank you, thank you.’ Grace curtsied. ‘Come and meet my friends.’ She continued as she dragged her sister to introduce her to two of her course mates from school.

After the introductions, she whispered to her sister. ‘One more person you need to meet.’ She danced excitedly.

‘Hmmm….the one?’ Aderemi snickered.

‘Sis c’mon, you would love him.’ Grace tapped her sister on the arm playfully as she led her away from her friends.

As they approached where Ayorinde was sitting, he stood up. ‘Welcome home, Aderemi.’ He said as he stretched out his hand.

Aderemi took his hand and her eye twitched.

‘Thank you.’

‘Sis, this is Ayorinde, my boyfriend.’ She held him by the hand and whispered the word ‘boyfriend’ to her sister.

Aderemi nodded. ‘Hi Ayorinde. Have we met before?’

Grace laughed. ‘Sis, I’m always talking about him, so you know; you kinda met already in the spirit.’ She gesticulated with her hands.

‘Oh o-okay!’

‘Ayorinde, my sis and I need a lot of catching up to do.’ Grace said as she dragged her sister again; away from Ayorinde.

About 2 hours later, Aderemi thanked everyone for attending her welcome party which she warned her sister against. Everyone laughed and in another thirty minutes, it was just Aderemi, Grace and their father as it had always been.

******

The girls retreated into Aderemi’s room for the night. ‘Your boyfriend really does look familiar.’

‘Really? You’ve been away for a while. Where would you have met him?’

Aderemi shrugged. ‘I don’t know but I know I have seen that face before.’

‘I’m sure you haven’t sis. Your mind is playing games on you.’ Grace laughed. ‘He never had the opportunity to attend a Uni, the reason why I am sure you couldn’t have met him.’

‘He didn’t? So what does he do?’

‘He’s a hairdresser. He has a big salon for both men and women at Gbagada.’

‘And you think your father will allow you date someone who didn’t attend a Uni?’ Aderemi asked, eyebrows raised.

Grace moved closer to her sister. ‘That is why I need you on my side, sis. I know dad is suspicious ‘cos he kept looking at Ayorinde all through the party. I think he relaxed a little when I mentioned that he is Ayotunde’s elder brother. But you know your father, the questions will come soon and I want to be prepared when they come.’

‘I don’t know about this Grace. It is going to be difficult to convince him that you want to date a hairdresser coupled with the fact that – I think you are still too young to be getting yourself involved or worried about men.’ Aderemi put her right hand on her sister’s cheek. ‘You are in 100 level darling, you have a long way ahead of you. Bury your head into your books now.’

Grace sighed. ‘Sis, I need you. You can’t do this to me.’

‘Grace, you are just eighteen, for crying out loud. You still have the world ahead of you to conquer. Leave boys alone for now.’

‘Nineteen in a few months and in love.’

Aderemi burst out into laughter. ‘Okay baby sister in love, I need to go to bed. I am tired. I have had a long day.’ She said as she turned her back to Grace.

Grace knelt on the bed as she clasped her hands in a prayer mode. ‘Just say yes sis.’

Aderemi turned to face her. ‘Yes to what? Continuing a relationship? Capital N-O.’

‘Please, please, please sis. Please!!!’

‘Oh goodness gracious!’

‘Sis, you know I love you. Sis, please, please.’

Aderemi threw her hands up in the air. ‘Okay, okay. Just leave my room.’

‘Is that a yes?’ Grace got up from the bed smiling.

‘Whatever! Shut the door after you.’

‘I love you sis.’

‘Love you too.’ Aderemi grumbled.

******

Aderemi woke up with a start. She had beads of sweat on her forehead. She sat up and turned on her bedside lamp to the lowest setting. She couldn’t understand what was going on. The last time she had nightmares was years ago. She looked at the clock beside the lamp. It read 2:00a.m. A sharp pain hit at the right side of her head and she swung her legs off the bed gently. She knew the first aid box in her bathroom would be empty since she had been away for a while. She got up and padded down the hallway with slow steps.

She got to the kitchen and flicked on the light. A wave of pain hit her again and she grimaced as she held her head. She walked quickly to the kitchen cabinet where they kept over-the-counter drugs. She pulled out a pack of Tylenol and took out 2 tablets. She was trying to get a glass cup from the kitchen counter when her hand missed it. It rolled down the counter and fell with a loud shatter on the floor.

‘Oh shoot.’ She cursed.

She bent down to pick up the shards on the floor. As she got up, she saw her father running into the kitchen.

‘Just leave it. I will clean it up.’ He said as he got the broom and dustpan behind the door.

‘I’m sorry I woke you up.’

“It’s fine darling. What’s wrong?’ Her father asked as he bent down, swept the shards carefully and dumped them in the bin.

Aderemi looked at the tablets in her hands. ‘I have a pounding headache.’

Adeleke signaled to his daughter to sit at the kitchen island. He got another glass cup, filled it with water and gave it to her.

‘Thank you Daddy.’

He pulled out another chair and sat facing her.

‘Jet-lag?’

She downed the tablets and the water. ‘Nightmares.’ She said she placed the tumbler on the table.

‘You still have nightmares?’

‘It stopped.’

‘So when did it start again?’ Adeleke asked looking worried.

‘This night or should I call it morning.’

‘That’s strange. What triggered it?’

Aderemi looked at her dad. Her mind flashed back to the conversation she had with Grace last night.

‘Aderemi…Aderemi!’

‘Yes dad. I’m sorry, did you say something?’

‘Are you okay? You were sitting right here in front of me and totally lost.’

‘I’m sorry Daddy. I guess the stress of the long flight must be making me disoriented.’

‘Okay, you should go back to bed then.’

‘Yes.’ She stood up and kissed her dad on the cheek. ‘Thank you.’

Adeleke watched as his daughter sauntered to her bedroom. He put his hand on his chin deep in thought. The last time he remembered Aderemi having nightmares was after she was robbed about seven years ago. What could have triggered it this time?

He stood up, switched off the kitchen light and went into his room. However, sleep eluded him. Thoughts of Aderemi struggling with nightmares every night as a child when she lost her mother besieged him. His mind also took him back to the night she had gone to her friend’s party, the way she had sobbed uncontrollably on his shoulders and the nightmares thereafter.

He took a deep breath as he lay on his bed. He looked up to the heavens in the dark as he said a prayer. ‘Oh God, please help my daughter again.’

……..

The story continues…

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…

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 17

“Mummy, are you sure about this?” Ayotunde asked again.

Mrs. Taiwo looked at her adopted daughter. “How many times will you ask me, Ayotunde?”

Ayotunde shrugged. “I’m just not interested in having a graduation party. We still have university ahead of us. Besides, would my friends be comfortable coming to the proprietress’ house?”

“I never said I was throwing a party. I said call a few of your friends for lunch and drinks to celebrate your straight A’s. And your friends would only be scared of coming here if they have sinned.”

“Okay mum; you win.”

Mrs. Taiwo laughed. “It was never a contest. By the way, have you spoken to your father this week?”

“Yes ma. He is doing well.”

“And your mother?”

Ayotunde sighed. “Still giving him trouble as usual.”

*

It was a Saturday morning and they were seated in the living room. They had just had breakfast of pap and akara which had been prepared by Ayotunde.

Mrs. Taiwo’s phone began to ring.

“I’ll get it for you.” Ayotunde said as she stood up from the couch. She picked up the phone from the centre table and looked at the caller ID. “It is Ayorinde.”

Mrs. Taiwo smiled as she collected the phone from her daughter. “Ayorinde!” She stressed his name as she tapped the green button on her phone. “How are you and how is business doing?”

“I am fine ma. The salon is also doing well. How are you too mummy?”

“I’m fine. The Lord has been good to me.”

“We bless God ma.” Ayorinde replied on the other end.

“Has your sister told you about her WAEC results?”

“Yes mummy. She sent me a message last night.”

“I’m very proud of her and of you too, Ayorinde. Both of you have not given me a reason to regret taking you in six years ago. I’m sure your father would also be proud of you. You should inform him about your sister’s result.”

“Thank you mum. I called him last night immediately I saw Ayotunde’s text. He was overjoyed. He said I should let you know that he is indebted to you.”

“He should give thanks to God. We are all indebted to Him.”

“Mummy, I called to let you know that I want to expand the salon.” Ayorinde said.

“Okay, what are your plans?”

“I want to open a hairdressing salon by the side of the barbing salon. We usually get a lot of requests from ladies and there is really no established hairdressing salon in this area.”

“Okay, why not come over and let us talk about this?”

“Okay mummy. I will be there tomorrow morning.”

“What should we make for breakfast?”

“Mummy?” Ayorinde laughed. “I will make my breakfast when I come.”

Mrs. Taiwo yawned. “If you say so.”

“How is Nana and her husband doing?”

“Oh, they are fine. They finally settled down.”

“I hope the weather isn’t too cold over there.” Ayorinde asked.

“Well, they decided to settle for Canada.” Mrs. Taiwo said as she shrugged. “They don’t have a choice. They will have to get used to it.”

Ayorinde laughed heartily. “Okay mummy. See you tomorrow morning.”

“By God’s grace, Ayorinde.” Mrs. Taiwo said as she cut the call.

******

Ayotunde’s graduation party was fixed for two Saturdays after. Ayotunde called her father to inform him and wished he could be present but Ayo declined. He prayed for her on the phone and told her she had made him a proud father. He also prayed for Mrs. Taiwo and asked her to send his regards.

At about 2:00p.m, a few of Ayotunde’s friends began to arrive. She had invited only six of her friends. She insisted she wanted a very small party. When Grace arrived, Ayotunde walked out to greet her father. “Good afternoon sir.” Ayotunde said as she curtsied.

“Good afternoon Ayotunde. Congratulations on your result. Grace told me you had the best result in the school.”

Ayotunde smiled. “Thank you sir.”

“What time should I pick her up?”

“Daddy, I said I would call you when I am done.” Grace smirked.

“Your call should not come too late, your royal highness.”

Ayotunde laughed. “No sir. It won’t be too late. I’m sure anytime from 7:00p.m should be fine. I also don’t want to disrupt mummy’s sleep pattern.”

“How is she?”

“She is fine sir.”

“Extend my regards to her.”

“I will sir.” Ayotunde said as she held her friend’s hand and turned towards the house.

*

The aroma of finger foods filled the air. Mrs. Taiwo had made arrangements for a caterer to make bite sized snacks, finger foods and chapman for Ayotunde’s guests.

They were watching the movie “Lemonade Mouth” when Ayorinde let himself into the house.

“Where is the new graduate?” He asked.

“Ayorinde!” Ayotunde jumped up as she ran to hug her brother.

“Congratulations.” He said as he handed her a wrapped gift.

“I can see you and your friends are having fun.”

“Good afternoon sir.” The children chorused.

“You have only six friends? Four girls and two boys?” Ayorinde looked at his sister in mock surprise.

Ayotunde shrugged. “I don’t really have friends.”

“This is Grace; my best friend.”

“Oh Grace, I have heard so much about you.” Ayotunde said.

Grace smiled shyly. Ayotunde went ahead to introduce the rest of her friends.

Ayorinde asked them to feel at home and inform him if they needed anything.

*

By 6:00pm, the guests began to leave and thanked Mrs. Taiwo and Ayorinde for their hospitality. Mrs. Taiwo said she hoped to hear good news from each one of them concerning their admission into the University. She told them to keep in touch and promised to call their parents to confirm that each one had arrived home safely.

Grace was the last to leave. She sat with her friend and they began to discuss about their plans for the University. They both decided they wanted to go to the University of Lagos.

“I doubt my dad will allow me attend a University outside Lagos. My sister really wanted to go abroad to study but daddy refused.” Grace said.

Ayotunde smiled. “I understand. My brother is also very protective of me just like your dad is. He may not also be willing to let me go out of Lagos. Besides, mummy is the only one at home, so it makes sense for me to stay here in Lagos.”

“Is it your brother that owns that big salon in Gbagada?”

“Yes, he owns it.”

“Wow!” Grace exclaimed. “You never told me. I usually see the advert on TV and I was wondering why his face looked very familiar.”

Ayotunde laughed.

“Can they make my hair for me?”

“Why not? I will let him know.”

******

At exactly 7:00pm, Mr. Johnson arrived.

“I think I can hear my dad’s car.” Grace said.

Ayotunde looked at her wrist watch. “It’s 7:00pm already. Where has the day gone to? Your dad must be an accurate time keeper.”

Both girls burst out laughing as they walked out of the house.

“I hope you girls had fun.” Mr. Johnson asked.

“Yes sir.” They chorused.

Grace eased into the passenger seat beside her father. “We would talk on phone to conclude our plans.”

“Which plans?” Mr. Johnson asked.

“Women talk, Daddy!”

Mr. Johnson shrugged. “My regards to your mum, Ayotunde.”

“Yes sir.” Ayotunde waved to Grace as the car sped away.

*

“Did you enjoy your party?” Ayorinde asked as he walked into the living room.

“Yes, I did. Thanks for the gift. My friends were wowed.”

“Anything for my little sister.”

“I ain’t little anymore.”

“Okay sis.” Ayorinde lifted his hands in surrender.

“Grace wants to make her hair at the salon.”

“Okay, when is she coming?”

“She did not say but I will let you know ahead.”

“She seems like a really good girl.”

“Yes, she is.” Ayotunde said as she picked up the remote to play a video she had initially paused.

“So what are your plans for Uni?”

“Grace and I were discussing it. We both want to go to Unilag.”

“Okay. Which course?”

“Guidance and Counselling.”

“Really? Have you discussed this with Mama T?” Ayorinde asked.

“Yes, I have. And she gave me her blessings.”

“Okay then. If she is cool with it, then it is fine.”

“Thanks.”

Ayorinde coughed. “About your friend.”

“Which one of them?”

“Grace.”

Ayotunde dropped the remote and looked at her brother. “What about her?

“I just want to know about her.”

“You want to know about her?” Ayotunde smiled sheepishly.

“Is that a bad thing?”

“No oh…..” Ayotunde laughed. “The look in your eyes says it all.”

“What do you mean?” Ayorinde asked as he rolled his eyes.

“You can’t even pretend Ayorinde. Every time you came to ask, if we were all okay, I knew you were coming to steal looks at Grace.”

“Was it that obvious?”

“It was to me. I think I should have an idea when I see love in my brother’s eyes.”

“Oh c’mon Ayotunde. You are making this look really bad.”

Ayotunde burst out laughing. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry.” She stilled from her laughter and made a serious face. “What do you want to know about her?” She asked grinning.

“Anything.” Ayorinde shrugged.

“She’s a good girl. She has one older sister who is doing her Masters in the U.S. Her mum is late. Died while having her. So she is extremely precious in the eyes of her father.”

“Wow!”

“That’s her story.”

“When did you say she was coming over to the salon?”

“She did not say. She just wanted you to know.”

“That’s fine then. Just let me know when she is coming.”

“Hehehe….my brother is in love.” Ayotunde began to sing.

Ayorinde threw a cushion pillow at her. “Don’t tell her anything.”

Ayotunde put her hand across her lips to signify a zipped mouth.


The story continues…

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 16

“Stop crying nau. Don’t let Mama T start wondering what the problem is.” Ayorinde said for the umpteenth time. He tapped the bell at the gate as Ayotunde used the back of her palm to wipe her eyes.

Mrs. Taiwo opened the door smiling. She walked towards them and stopped abruptly. “What is wrong with Ayotunde?”

“Nothing ma. Something flew into her eyes as we were walking down here.”

Mrs. Taiwo opened the gate with a questioning look. “Hmm….Ayotunde, something flew into your eyes?”

Ayotunde nodded without looking up.

“Let’s go inside so I can have a look.”

As Mrs. Taiwo closed the gate, Ayorinde looked at his sister and gave her a pleading look.

***

“So, let’s see that eyes before you do anything.” Mrs. Taiwo said as she sat down and tapped the seat beside her.

“I think her eyes are fine now, ma. I have looked at it.”

“Ayorinde!”

“Yes ma.”

“Sit down.” Mrs. Taiwo ordered. “Come here Ayotunde.”

Ayorinde obeyed and sat with his hands in his laps while Ayotunde walked towards Mrs. Taiwo.

Mrs. Taiwo tapped the seat beside her and Ayotunde sat. “I don’t condone lies.” She said looking at both of them. “I want the truth.”

Ayotunde burst into fresh tears. “Ma….ma…..some….someone stole my money.”

“Which money?”

“The…the…I was….I was saving it….for my….school fees.” Ayotunde said in between gasps.

Mrs. Taiwo looked at Ayorinde. “Can you please explain?”

“We have been saving the money you pay us inside her kolo. She has written the exam for Government College and she passed. So she wanted to break the kolo today. We have searched the whole house, we can’t find it.”

“Oh dear!” Mrs. Taiwo said as she pulled Ayotunde close and hugged her tight. When Ayotunde stilled from her sobs, Mrs. Taiwo held her face in her hands and looked at her. “You want to go to school?”

Ayotunde nodded.

“You will go to school. I assure you of that. I didn’t realize both of you had started planning towards this.” She said as she looked at Ayorinde. “I had already made arrangements for her to attend my school in the new session. I just needed to speak with you so I could get permission from your parents if they wouldn’t mind Ayotunde living with me.”

Ayorinde’s jaw dropped as he looked at Mrs. Taiwo. He had no idea that she had a school. And now, his sister was getting a scholarship they didn’t work for plus a beautiful home to live in. She would leave the shanties where they lived and get a proper education. He was overjoyed. He prostrated flat on the floor before Mrs. Taiwo.

“Ayorinde.” Mrs. Taiwo laughed as she tried to raise him from the floor. “C’mon.”

Ayorinde was in tears. He couldn’t believe their fortunes could change so quickly.

“C’mon Ayorinde. Get up and stop crying.” He obeyed and knelt before her. He placed his head on her laps as he continued sobbing. Ayotunde was also in tears as she hugged Mrs. Taiwo’s waist.

Mrs. Taiwo took a deep breath as she patted both of them. They could pass for her kids.

******

Kevwe stamped her feet round the room. “She no dey go anywhere.” She kept repeating. Ayotunde sat at her father’s feet crying while Ayorinde stood by the door.

“You haven’t exactly said what the problem is. You keep repeating that she is not going anywhere. Don’t you want your daughter to be educated?”  Ayo asked his wife.

“Edu-wetin? Wetin all your education do for you?” Kevwe sneered. “Since I don know you, which real work you get?”

“Mama?” Ayorinde shouted.

“Wetin? Why you dey call me? Na lie I talk?” She raised her hands to hush her son as she eyed him.

Ayo put his head in his hands and took a deep breath. Times like this, he wish he were dead.

“You no want make she go school, Mama? I sure say na you take the kolo wey she keep for behind curtain.” Ayorinde spat.

“Me? Ayorinde? You dey call me your mama; thief?

“How many of us dey dis house? I no say Papa no fit take am.”

As Kevwe stepped forward to slap her son, he held her hand and gave her a stern look.

Kevwe snatched her hand and took a step backward. She beat her chest. “Ayorinde, na me you dey take play. The thing wey your papa no fit do.”

“Enough!” Ayo shouted. “I have had enough of you Kevwe.” He looked at his son. “Which kolo are you talking about?

“Mama T usually paid us money every time we cleaned her house. Ayotunde was keeping most of the money in her kolo so that we could use it when she wanted to enter secondary school. We have searched the whole house and can’t find it anywhere. Mama T noticed Ayotunde must have been crying the day we went to clean her house and she asked us to tell her the truth. That was when she offered Ayotunde the scholarship in her school and also asked that we seek your permission that she lives with her.”

Ayo took a deep breath. “Hmm….she seems to be a very nice woman.”

“Yes, she is sir. Please let Ayotunde go and live with her so she can go to school.”

Ayo looked at his daughter. He wiped the tears on her cheeks and hugged her. He was going to miss her but he had to let her go. “You can go Ayotunde. I will miss you.”

“I will miss you too Papa but I will come home sometimes to visit you.”

“No, I want you to stay there and read your books. I will be fine here.”

“Thank you Papa.” Ayotunde said as she started sobbing again.

“Thank you sir.” Ayorinde said.

“Ayo, Ayo, no try me oh. I dey tell you. No try me oh.” Kevwe shouted as she pointed towards her husband.

Ayotunde looked at her father’s face.

“Don’t worry yourself. Let your brother help you pack your things.” Ayo concluded.

******

The next morning, Ayotunde, Ayorinde and their father set out early to Mrs. Taiwo’s house. As Mrs. Taiwo opened the gate for them, she scolded the children. “You shouldn’t have brought your father, I would have come to your house.” She looked at Ayo. “I’m sorry the kids made you go through the stress to get here.”

Ayo did a half-prostrate. “It is not stress ma. Thank you very much ma. I am very grateful.”

“Oh, it is fine. I take them as my kids.” She said as she led him into the house; Ayotunde and Ayorinde already ahead of them.

“Please sit down.” She said as she pointed to a couch. “What can I offer you?”

“Nothing ma. I am fine. I just wanted to escort them here, that’s all.”

“Are you sure you don’t want me to make a quick breakfast?”

“No ma.” Ayo said standing up. “I should take my leave now. I also need to get to work.”

“Okay then. If you say so, let me get the children. They must be in the kitchen.”

Ayo opened his mouth to say something but Mrs. Taiwo had already turned her back and disappeared into a corner of the house.

He wondered how his children met such a kind woman and was surprised she mentioned that they were already in the kitchen. Cooking, cleaning or eating? He looked round the living room. There was a picture of Mrs. Taiwo and a man with a teenage girl. They all had smiles on their faces and were well dressed. He assumed the man was probably her husband.

He looked towards the credenza and saw another picture of the girl; this time in a University matriculation gown. Mrs. Taiwo was all smiles as she stood beside her but the man was absent.

Ayorinde and Ayotunde walked into the living room. “You are ready to leave Papa?” Ayotunde asked.

“Yes, I need to go to work.”

“Okay Papa.” Ayorinde said as he opened the door to let them out. When they got out, Ayorinde took out a brown envelope from his pocket and handed it to his father. “Mama T said I should give this to you.”

Ayo opened his mouth in shock. “Ah! God bless this woman. Her children and children’s children will never know lack. The eyes of the enemy will never find them.”

“Amen!” The children chorused.

Ayorinde opened the gate for his father and let him out.

Ayo looked back at his children. “You children are the only source of joy I have. Both of you give me a reason to continue to live. Ayotunde, don’t let your guardian down. Please make her proud.”

“I will Papa.” Ayotunde said as she waved to her father.

She wiped a tear from her eyes as she walked back towards the house. Ayorinde stopped her and looked at her. “I know you will make Mama T and Papa proud. I trust you.” He said as he pulled her into an embrace.

Mrs. Taiwo stood at her bedside window looking at the two children and wiped a tear from her eyes.

——

The story continues…

Yesterday Lives

Dear Reader,

You know our love is forever and this union of ours is tied to words.

I write to you again today. As you know, the story; ‘Yesterday Lives’ is already in its 14th Chapter and we have come to the end of Part 1 of this series.

What if I told you I have mixed feelings about continuing the story.

Wondering why? Well, my mind tells me that not everyone is following this story. And OMG, you know you should 😊

I would love to share this story in its fullness with you, but I also want to know that you are following the story carefully and intriguingly.

Well! If you are enjoying the story, Leave me a comment.

Do you think the story isn’t worth your time? Drop me a comment still.

It should delight you to know that reviews; whether good or otherwise spur the author to keep writing for you, for the world.

So let me know what you think about ‘Yesterday Lives’ so far.

If you are here for the first time, I am glad you came. Whoop! Whoop! 💃💃

Binge read on all the previous chapters of ‘Yesterday Lives’ and let me know what you think.

Thank you for reading. Please come out of your ghost mode 😁

.

.

Yours in writing ✍

Olubukola

Yesterday Lives – Chapter 9

Kevwe was seated on her bed. She smiled as she saw Ayo walking towards her. She combed her hands through her roughened hair to straighten it out.

“Hey beautiful.” Ayo said as he got to her. He bent a little and kissed her on her forehead.

Kevwe smiled.

“Ready to go home?” Ayo asked.

“Yes.”

Ayo held her as she stood up from the bed. He put his right arm round her waist as he led her out of the hospital ward. They walked towards the car within the hospital premises and Ayo opened the passenger door for Kevwe. She eased in carefully and buckled up her seat belt.

As Ayo eased into the driver’s side, Kevwe looked at him. “Thank you Ayo. I no even know how I fit say thank you for everything you dey do for me.”

Ayo smiled. “I would do anything for the love of my life.”

Kevwe blushed and looked away.

“There is something I need to discuss with you Kevwe. So many things happened while you were in the hospital.” Ayo said as he took a deep breath. He sat back refusing to start the car.

“Wetin happen?” Kevwe asked as her face became serious.

“First thing is that we need a place to stay like yesterday. I did not want to mention this to you while you were in the hospital and recuperating, but now that you are okay and strong, you need to know that you are carrying my baby.”

Kevwe looked at her tummy and looked at Ayo’s face with shock. “You mean say I don get belle?” She asked as she touched her tummy.

“Yes, you are pregnant.” Ayo said smiling.

Kevwe put her hand on her head. “Why you no come tell the doctor make e remove am? Ah Ayo, why you dey do me like dis nau?”

Ayo’s jaw dropped. “Kevwe, remove what? You are carrying my baby and you want to take it out?” He asked shaking his head.

“I no go fit work again. If Madam hear, she go troway my things comot from her house.” Kevwe replied agitated.

“Kevwe, listen to me.” Ayo said as he turned to face her and held her face in his hands. “We are keeping this baby. You and me. Do you understand me?”

Kevwe removed his hands from her face.

“Why do you think I said we need to look for a place urgently?”

“Okay. I don hear you. Oghogho don know?”

“Yes, she does and she was happy that I am taking you out of the business.”

Kevwe was quiet.

“There is something else.”

Kevwe looked at Ayo. “Wetin again?”

“Chief is dead.”

Kevwe gasped. “Dead? Wetin happen?”

“Heart failure. He has been buried.” Ayo said sadly.

“Haaa…., sorry Ayo. I no no oh.”

“You couldn’t have. It’s fine. I just don’t know what my fate is. We discussed a lot of things before he left on that flight. Most of what we discussed seem like they would no longer be happening. Chief’s brothers have been visiting the house regularly and they have been asking me what my position is in the house. I have to get myself ready because I won’t be surprised if I am kicked out into the cold.”

“Na wa oh. So that good man just go like that?” Kevwe lamented.

“Hmm….this life.” Ayo exclaimed as he started the engine and began to drive out of the hospital premises.

******

Kevwe was dropped off at home while Ayo went back to the house to keep Ngozi company. Since Chief’s death and burial, she had been absent minded a lot of times. Ayo had seen her crying a number of times while sitting in Chief’s favourite lounge chair in the garden. He felt sorry for her. She had not visited her spa and salon since Chief’s death. Ayo had taken the initiative and gone there to inform the manager about the turn of events in Chief’s household. He had also asked her to ensure that things went smoothly till their madam returned.

Ayo had also been doing the school runs for Ngozi. He looked at his wrist watch. The time read 1:00p.m. He still had an hour to go before picking the girls from school. He decided he would check on Ngozi first before going to prepare a quick lunch for himself. As he drove towards the gate, the gateman opened for him.

“Oga Ayo, welcome. Chief brother dey inside with madam.” The gateman said.

Ayo sighed. “Okay, thank you Dubem.”

Ayo parked the car and walked towards the entrance of Chief’s apartment. As he got to the door, he was about to tap the doorbell when he heard Ngozi crying and talking at the same time. He stopped at the door and tried to listen to the conversation.

“Ebuka, I cannot marry anyone of you. I know you would understand. All of you should have a rethink. Haba!!! You want to sleep with your brother’s wife in the guise of continuing a legacy. Who gave you the idea that I want to have more children?”

“Ngo, but you know I am single and can take care of you. I have always liked you oh. My brother was just chopping the good life alone. Ehn, the fifteen years age gap between you and him was too much. Give me a chance, baby.”

Ngozi was stunned as she looked at her brother-in-law. “Ebuka. I am your brother’s wife!!!”

“You are my late brother’s wife, biko. And I have a right to you just as Brother Chidi.”

“I will not stand here and listen to this nonsense.” Ngozi said as she turned back to walk away.

Ebuka reached her two steps and pulled her back. “I am still talking. Where do you think you are going to?”

“Ebuka, Ebuka, leave me alone oh. Leave me alone.” Ngozi shouted.

“I will not leave you alone. You want to play hard to get, abi? I will show you.” He said as he yanked the wrapper around her waist and pushed her on the couch.

Ngozi began to scream and Ayo knew he had to act immediately.

He put his hand on the door handle and it opened. He was glad that the door wasn’t locked. He ran towards Ebuka and dragged him off Ngozi. Ebuka turned round and gave Ayo a blow on his face. Ayo staggered backwards. Ngozi struggled to stand up from the couch and Ebuka pushed her back in as he tore her blouse. Ngozi began to scream and fight as she resisted Ebuka. Ayo rushed towards Ebuka and gave him two blows on his head. Ebuka fell back and Ngozi pushed him away as she ran towards the kitchen.

Dubem had heard Ngozi’s screaming and he ran into the house. He met Ngozi half-naked holding a kitchen knife as she pointed it towards Ebuka.

“Come near me Ebuka and I will kill you today.” She screamed.

“Please drop the knife.” Ayo pleaded.

“I will kill him and kill myself today.”

“Madam, abeg no kill Uncle Ebuka.” Dubem begged.

“Don’t do this please. Think about your children.” Ayo said as he tried to calm Ngozi.

Ngozi burst into tears but held tightly to the knife.

Ebuka moved towards her.

Ngozi wiped her tears and raised the knife in an attempt to stab him. “If you touch me, I will kill you.” She screamed.

Ayo looked at Ebuka. “Get out.” He shouted.

“In my brother’s house? Who are you?” Ebuka asked as he retraced his steps when he saw the raised knife.

“You will know who he is if you come near me. I swear, you go greet Chigozie today.” Ngozi kissed the knife and raised it to the heavens.

“Ehen, so this is what you people have been doing ehn. You have been sleeping with your oga’s wife abi?” Ebuka said to Ayo. “Ngozi, you are sleeping with a common driver, eeeh, my brother don suffer.” Ebuka said as he looked at Ngozi.

Ngozi gripped the knife tightly in her fist and took quick steps towards Ebuka.

Dubem began to shout. “Madam, abeg, madam!!!”

Ebuka became scared and pushed Dubem out of the way as he ran out of the house towards the gate.

“Why you no wait, bastard? I for kill you today, idiot.” Ngozi shouted. As she walked back, she picked up her wrapper from the floor and burst into fresh tears.

“Sorry madam.” Dubem said as he walked out of the house. He proceeded to lock the gate so Ebuka would not come back in.

 

 

Ayo stood transfixed. He was shocked at the events of the last few minutes. Anything could have happened and they would have had two dead bodies lying in the living room if Ebuka had not run out. He had never seen Ngozi that angry. He looked at her sitting on the floor as she gripped her wrapper tightly in her left hand and held the knife in her right hand. Her wrapper loosely covered her lower body as she cried uncontrollably. She bit her forefinger and cried in despair as she hit the floor with her fist. Ayo considered comforting her but thought against it. “I’m sorry Ngozi.” He said but Ngozi did not hear him. She was broken and torn.

Ayo remained there watching her. He felt her pain. He wished they could turn back the hands of time and Chief would be back with them. He wished the events of the past week would be a bad dream that everyone involved would wake up from and continue living life like it had been before.

He turned his back on her and was about leaving her. He got to the door and stopped. He couldn’t leave her this way. His heart broke as he heard her cry. He turned back to look at her. Her whole body shook with every sob. He saw her looking at the knife and without thinking, he went to her and lifted her up from the floor. He carried her up like a baby. Ngozi dropped the knife and put her arms around his neck as she held on tightly to him. Ayo carried her up the stairs towards her bedroom. He got to her room and laid her down on the bed. Her wrapper had dropped off on the way up and she was just in a torn blouse and her panties. Her neck was already turning red and there was a bruise on her cheek from Ebuka’s rough handling. Ayo looked at the length of her body. Ngozi was truly beautiful.

“It is okay, Ngozi.” He said as he wiped her tears. He touched her cheek and felt the bruise. That bastard, I could kill him with my bare hands.

“Ngozi, please stop crying.” Ayo pleaded. He sat on her bed and pulled her hair back from her face. “Please, it is okay. Everything will be fine.”

“I’m….I’m….I’m scared.” Ngozi gasped as she cried.

Ayo took a deep breath. She had every reason to be scared. Her husband’s family had suddenly turned against her. The same family she had fed so many times while her husband was alive. The family that had laughed and joked with her when everything was good.

He held her hand in his. “Don’t be scared. I’m sure things will work out somehow.”

Ngozi looked at him. Her eyes were red and puffy. She hugged Ayo and held on to him. “Thank you for saving me.” She said as her sobs subsided.

Ayo hugged her back. He would have done it for anyone. She needed to be protected. He looked at her lower body which was still bare. He closed his eyes and shook his head. His mind was beginning to play tricks on him. His body was responding to Ngozi’s tight hug. He dropped his arms around Ngozi but she was still holding on to him. What is wrong with me? He thought as his body began to warm. This was his boss’s wife. He had no business being with her in her bedroom.

He pulled Ngozi gently away from his body and lay her on the bed. He bent down to lift the duvet on the bed to cover her body. As he tried to cover her legs, his hand brushed her legs and he looked at Ngozi. She was looking at him. He bent down to kiss her legs. He moved upwards and kissed her thighs too. When he looked up at her, tears were streaming down her cheeks. He moved closer and took her lips in his as he kissed her gently. Ngozi responded in like passion tantalizing his senses and body.

 

 

The story continues…

Finally! To Love and to Hold is in print 😁

Hi,
It has been a long while away from here.
I apologize.
Work, family and other pressing commitments took me away.
But I am glad to be back 😁
And I can tell you that I am back with a bang 😂
.
The series “To Love and To Hold” which was featured here a while back is now available in print.
.
So to all my friends/readers uncomfortable with e-books, we got you covered.
.
Reviews have already started pouring in. Join the train 🙂

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To Love and To Hold is available for purchase at the following addresses;

1) Pagebookstore
Ibilola Nelson House, 82 Allen Avenue Ikeja, Lagos.
Online store – https://pagebookstore.com/products/to-love-and-to-hold?_pos=1&_sid=677321090&_ss=r

2) RovingHeights Bookstore
28 Ogunlana Drive, Surulere. Lagos.
Block B, Shop 4.1, CVS plaza (former Heroes plaza), opposite Oti carpets, Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja.
Online store – https://rhbooks.com.ng/product/to-love-and-to-hold-by-olubukola-adekusibe/

3) Bookpeddlerng
14 Gbelegbo street, Magodo Isheri 1, Lagos.
Online store – https://bookpeddler.ng/books/to-love-and-to-hold-by-olubukola-adekusibe/

4) Adam’s Pages
Zone 2, Machima plaza. No 2 Mambolo close, off Sultan Abubakar Way, Wuse 900281, Abuja.

5) Bookvilleworld
2 Ezimgbu Link Road (Mummy B road), off Stadium Road Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Online store – https://bookvilleworld.com/product/to-love-and-to-hold/

6) Olubukola’s Thoughts Paystack store
Online store – https://paystack.com/buy/to-love-and-to-hold

7) Amazon
Get an e-copy of ‘To Love and to Hold’
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MEI00FR/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i5

Please keep the reviews coming. I would love to hear from you.