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Yesterday Lives – Chapter 7

Kevwe smiled as she walked into her room later that night. She was sure of what Ayo felt for her and she was happy. The only thing she needed to do now was to try and save up some money so she could move out. She had not thought of what else she could do. She had no skills and no education. She lay on her bed contemplating on her next line of action when Tutu walked in.

“Madam, where you go since?”

Kevwe ignored her and faced the wall.

“Madam Kevwe, no be you I dey talk to? Abi, you don dey big since you don get driver boyfriend?” Tutu sneered spoiling for a fight.

Kevwe turned back to look at her. “Tutu, abeg, no vex me this night oh. Na beg I dey beg you.”

“What will you do? Tell me, what? Madam driver boyfriend.” Tutu said as she clapped her hands at Kevwe.

Kevwe ignored her, lay back on her bed and turned to face the wall.

Tutu’s claps and raised voice drew the attention of the other girls who were sleeping. Some woke up and watched the two of them while a few ignored them and went back to sleep.

“Talk nau, Madam driver boyfriend. Wetin you go do if I vex you?”

“Tutu, leave her nau.” One of the girls said.

“Aunty gbeborun, face your front. No be you I dey talk to.”

“Who you come dey talk to?” Oghogho said standing up. She was six feet tall and had a muscular build. She stood and towered above Tutu. “I say who you dey talk to. Look me well well. I look like Kevwe?”

Tutu turned away from her and walked towards her bed.

“Nonsense.” Oghogho said. “Why you no go look for your own boyfriend? Abi, if her boyfriend na driver, how that one take consine you?”

“No mind am oh. E be like say she wan steal the bobo for Kevwe hand cos she use my phone call one man one day like that. She no no say I dey hear as she dey beg the man. E fit be say na Kevwe bobo cos I know say she no get boyfriend.” Another girl said.

“Ehen, so na another person boyfriend she dey steal. Na wa oh. And she go come dey behave as if she beta pass all of us. Shior!” Another girl, Onome who had been lying down on her bed all along said.

Tutu was quiet all through. She stood up and walked towards the door when she couldn’t stand the taunts of her roommates any more.

“Eh, she dey go out. She no fit siddon hear again.” Oghogho laughed.

The other girls burst into laughter as they mocked her. Tutu, angry that she was being ridiculed slammed the door as she walked out of the room.

Ayo and Kevwe continued to see each other. Ayo reckoned that the earlier he got an apartment for Kevwe, the better for them. He scouted around looking for a decent single room where she could stay but all the rooms he saw were pricey and beyond his budget. He could not afford such right now. He however refused to relent as he continued his search.

******

Ten weeks later, on a Saturday morning, Kevwe woke up with a pounding headache and a high fever. Her roommates rallied round her as her breathing became labored and her body temperature rose.

“Sorry oh Kevwe. Make we carry you go hospital?”

Kevwe shook her head.

“But you don weak nau. E go beta make you go hospital.” Onome said.

Oghogho and one of her roommates sat on her bed as they tried to convince her.

“E go beta if you go hospital oh, Kevwe. You wey no dey sick normally.” Oghogho said.

“I no even know as my body dey do me sef. I just weak.” Kevwe replied.

“Abi, make I help you call your boyfriend make e come carry you go hospital?”

“Ah, you wan make Madam kill me finish if she see am?”

“How she go see am? You jus leave that one for me. Sebi na me go tell Madam say I dey take you go hospital.” Oghogho said.

Kevwe nodded; unable to utter another word. She handed her phone to Oghogho and asked her to look for Ayo’s number.

Oghogho placed the call to Ayo and he picked up on one ring.

“Hey beautiful.” Ayo said.

Oghogho coughed to clear her throat. “Sorry, no be Kevwe be this. Na her friend, Oghogho. Abeg, come help us take her go hospital. She dey very sick. She no even fit waka well. If you dey come, no reach here oh. Just tanda for the corner wey dey beside our house, I go bring her come meet you for dia.” Oghogho spoke very fast.

“Okay. Just take it easy. You said Kevwe is very sick and I should come pick her up to the hospital, right?”

“Yes.”

“I’m coming right away. I will call you when I am close to your place. Please keep the phone close to you.”

“Okay.” Oghogho replied.

Ayo cut the call and walked into the main house. He saw Chief’s kids watching a movie and asked about their father.

“Daddy is upstairs.” They chorused.

“Okay. Tell daddy that I stepped out briefly.”

“Okay, Mr. Ayo.” The kids said.

Ayo jumped into the car and drove in a hurry to Kevwe’s house. When he was about to round the bend beside the house, he called Kevwe’s number. Oghogho picked up the call.

“Hello, I am outside; just behind your house.” Ayo said.

“Okay, I dey come.”

Oghogho dragged Kevwe up from the bed. “Oya, make we dey go hospital.”

Onome helped Kevwe up and the trio walked out of the room. Madam was sitting in the living room watching a TV programme. She looked up and was surprised.

“Madam, Kevwe no well. We wan carry her go hospital.” Oghogho said.

“Okay. Make sure they run enough tests on her. I don’t want my clients complaining about any form of sickness or disease, understand?”

“Yes ma.” Oghogho rolled her eyes.

As the three girls walked out of the house, Oghogho hissed. “So na customer Madam dey think about? Ah, we don suffer for this life.”

Onome sighed and shook her head.

Ayo eased out of the car and half-jogged towards them immediately he spotted them. He swept Kevwe off her feet and dropped her carefully in the back seat of the car. Onome eased into the backseat while Oghogho decided to ride shotgun.

******

The doctor walked into the waiting room and called for Ayo. Oghogho stood up to walk towards the doctor but he raised his hand to stop her.

“Are you the patient’s sister?”

“No sir.” Oghogho replied.

“Okay. I will like to see him only. Thank you.”

Oghogho shrugged and turned back to sit beside Onome.

The doctor led Ayo into his office and offered him a seat.

“Doctor, what is wrong with her?”

The doctor sat down carefully and pulled out a sheet of paper from a brown file in front of him.

“We ran some tests on her. The result shows that she has malaria and she has to be properly monitored so that it doesn’t affect her baby in any way.”

Ayo gave the doctor a confused look. “Her baby? I don’t understand.”

The doctor raised his head and looked at Ayo. “You don’t know she is pregnant?”

Ayo’s jaw dropped. “Pregnant? Kevwe is pregnant?”

“Yes, she is. And she is almost concluding her first trimester.” The doctor said matter-of-factly.

Ayo could not believe what he had just heard. He was not sure whether to be happy or sad. There was no doubt in his heart about his love for her but he was unsure of what the future held for him and Kevwe. Could he handle having her for the rest of their lives? Besides, fatherhood was not a responsibility he was ready to shoulder at this time.

He sighed deeply. “Thank you doctor. So where is she now?”

“She has been placed on admission. She is in the general ward. You can speak with the matron if you need to see her.”

“Thank you sir.” Ayo said as he stood up and walked out of the doctor’s office with slumped shoulders.

Oghogho stood up when she saw Ayo’s countenance. “Wetin happen?”

Ayo sighed. The doctor said she has malaria.

“Ordinary malaria. So why your face come strong like this?”

“He said she is pregnant too.”

“Osanobua!” Oghogho exclaimed as she put her two hands on her head.

“Chai! Chai!” Onome lamented. “Wetin we go do now?”

Ayo looked at both of them but his mind was faraway. He had no house of his own, he was still trying to gather enough money to rent a room for Kevwe. How was he going to fend for her and a child? He sighed deeply as he walked towards the nurse’s station. He asked to see Kevwe and he was directed towards the general ward.

He spotted her immediately he entered the ward. He walked towards her and sat on the plastic chair by her bed. She was sleeping peacefully and he felt bad that he had to wake her up.

“Kevwe.” He whispered.

“Hmmm….” Kevwe answered groggily as she opened her eyes.

“How are you feeling now?”

“I no even understand the way I dey feel.” She said in a very low voice.

“It’s okay. You will be fine.”

Kevwe nodded gently as she drifted off to sleep again.

Ayo took a deep breath as he stood up and left the ward.

******

Oghogho and Onome were still seated in the waiting room.

“How she dey now?” Oghogho asked Ayo as he walked towards them.

“She is still very weak. She is sleeping now.”

“You tell her?”

Ayo shook his head.

“E good as you no tell her now. Make she get strength first. Wetin you wan do? Nobody must get belle for our house oh. Na because Madam no want belle, be the reason why she say we no fit get boyfriend.”

Ayo blew air through his mouth. “I don’t know. I will think of what to do.”

“Guy, think quick quick so that doctor go remove am before Kevwe sef know as you neva tell her.” Onome said indifferently.

“Remove what?” Ayo asked; shock clearly written on his face.

“Remove the belle nau. Ahn….ahn…” Onome said.

Oghogho studied Ayo’s face carefully. “You no wan remove am?”

“Why would I do that? She’s carrying my child.”

Oghogho shook her head and followed it with a nod. “You be good man. But if she keep the belle, she no go fit continue this work.”

“I know that and I was trying to get her out of this….” Ayo spread his hands with a disgusted look on his face but stopped when he realized what he was about to say would seem insensitive to Kevwe’s friends.

Oghogho smiled. “No worry. I understand. All of us don tire. We jus no dey lucky like Kevwe wey get fine man like you.”

“Thank you.” Ayo said with a sad face. “Let me drop you at your place. I will come back and wait here till she wakes up.”

As Oghogho and Onome eased out of the car behind the house they lived in, Oghogho looked to the heavens. “Osanobua, make you send me good man like this wey go carry me comot from this house.”

——

The story continues…

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Yesterday Lives – Chapter 3

Ayo had staggered into the compound at about 2:45pm. He was exhausted and starving. Ayotunde was playing a game of Suwe with her friends when she saw her father. She ran towards him and he carried her up and hugged her. Even though he was exhausted, Ayotunde always desired a hug from him. As he dropped his daughter, she held his hand. ‘Papa, Madam Nice…..’ She was saying when Ayorinde interrupted her.

‘Welcome Papa. How was work?’ He said as he looked at his father. ‘Ayotunde, go and play.’ He said to his sister. She obeyed immediately and went back to join her friends in the game.

‘Work was fine.’ Ayo said as he looked at his son. ‘What happened to Madam Something Nice?’

‘Don’t mind Ayotunde. I think she wanted to tell you that Madam Something Nice passed by here last night.’

‘Hmm…..’ Ayo said as he shook his head. ‘God will deliver that woman. I must never see her near my family.’

‘Yes Papa.’ Ayorinde replied as he walked into the room with his father.

As Ayo sat on the mattress to take off his boots, Kevwe walked in. She looked at the face of her son trying to decipher information from his face but Ayorinde’s face was blank like a plain sheet of paper.

‘My husband, welcome back.’ She said faking a smile as she looked at Ayo.

‘Thank you.’ Ayo replied unsmiling.

‘I don make pounded yam and egusi soup. Make I go bring am.’ She said as she touched her husband’s shoulders gingerly. ‘Ayorinde, get up. Make you come help me serve your papa.’

Ayorinde obeyed his mother and trudged behind her to the common kitchen shared by all the neighbours. When they were out of earshot, Kevwe pulled her son’s ears. ‘If you tell your papa anything, make you just know say you don die.’

Ayorinde looked at his mum, eyes unblinking.

‘You hear me?’ Kevwe asked.

‘I hear you.’ Ayorinde replied and turned to serve his father’s food into the bowl his mother had placed beside their stove.

Kevwe looked at her son’s back as he served the food. ‘You don dey grow wing, abi? Ehen? I go help you cut that your wing, you hear?’ She said as she scooped the pounded yam from the mortar into another bowl.

Years later, Kevwe still remained a troublesome woman and a source of concern to Ayo and his children. She complained about everything and anything. Her father had been a drunk while her mother was a prostitute. Her mother sold her to a client at the age of fifteen when she couldn’t pay up the debt she owed. Her father never bothered about her and her absence in the house was never mentioned.

At the age of fifteen, she became a prostitute as her madam was a pimp who traded girls for sex. She was sent to the houses of men who slept with her and paid directly to Madam for services rendered. She got an accommodation, clothes and food in return from Madam. She therefore had no reason to look back at the life she previously lived with her parents who never showed her love. As long as Madam took care of her needs, she was fine.

*****

She met Ayo one morning when she was coming back from a client’s house. She had been waiting to flag down a taxi when Ayo drove past in a grey Hyundai accent. He reversed the car and rolled down the window.

‘Hello beautiful, where are you going this morning?’

‘Obalende.’ She said as she used her hand to flick her weaves backward.

‘Come in. I am going that way as well.’

Kevwe opened the passenger door and eased herself into the car. She was wearing a low cut V-neck black mini gown which barely covered her bust and her thighs.

‘Thank you.’ She said as she smiled at Ayo.

‘So do you live in Obalende?’ Ayo asked as he looked at her thighs.

‘Yes.’ Kevwe replied as she threw her head back to expose her bust.

‘Hmm…..’ Ayo grunted as he looked towards the direction of her bust.

‘What about you?’ She asked as she glided her hands on her thighs.

Ayo noticed her hand movement and looked away. ‘I don’t stay in Obalende. I am actually going to the mechanic.’

‘Oh.’ Kevwe giggled. “I fit keep you company at the mechanic’s workshop nau. Abi, wetin you think?’

Ayo shrugged. ‘Okay. If it is fine by you.’

‘Of course.’ Kevwe giggled again.

In a few minutes, they were at the mechanic’s workshop. Ayo dropped the car and asked the mechanic to call him once he was done. There was a bar close by and Ayo decided to take Kevwe there while he awaited the mechanic’s call. They ordered a bottle of beer each and Kevwe gulped hers down in a hurry. Ayo teased her asking if she could handle another bottle and she asked him if he wanted to bet on it.

Ayo ordered another bottle for her and in a few minutes, she was done with the second bottle while Ayo was still on the first. After about forty minutes, the mechanic called Ayo to inform him that the car was ready. Kevwe asked Ayo if he would not mind giving her his number. He obliged as he reeled out his number to her. He drove off later while she went back to Madam’s house.

The encounter between them signaled a series of phone flashing from Kevwe. Ayo would always call back anytime she did; sometimes talking for long hours on the phone. However, Ayo never called her back during the day. He always made sure his calls to her were at night. Whenever Kevwe asked why he never called her back during the day, his response was that he was usually busy during the day. Kevwe however, would have preferred their discussions during the day as she was usually busy at night whenever Madam sent her to her clients. She was only free on the nights that she had no clients to attend to.

One night, during one their long calls, Kevwe told Ayo that she would like to visit him during the weekend. Ayo declined stating that he was travelling that weekend.

‘Okay, what about next weekend? Abi, you neva come back by that time?’

‘I will be back but I won’t be able to see you that weekend too. I have a family event to attend.’

‘You no wan invite me?’

Ayo breathed deeply. ‘It’s not that. You will visit me when the time is right, don’t worry.’

‘Okay oh. I don hear. This one wey you dey refuse make I come your house, I hope say no be say you don marry and you no wan tell me.’

Ayo guffawed. ‘Marry ke? Kevwe, abeg no make me laugh.’

‘Wetin dey funny dia? Your mates neva marry?’ Kevwe asked as she snorted.

‘I’m not married, Kevwe.’

Ayo decided to change the topic and Kevwe laughed heartily as they discussed into the night.

Four weeks later, Ayo called Kevwe one night that he was at the mechanic’s place at Obalende. He asked her if she could meet him there. Kevwe thought about where she would tell Madam she was going to. Today was her free day and she did not want to miss out on being with Ayo. She told him to give her about thirty minutes. She immediately put on a black round neck Tee-shirt on a red mini skirt and wore black ballet flats. She picked up a small handbag and ran down the stairs.

Madam was sitting in the living room watching the 7.00pm news. Kevwe coughed to catch her attention.

Madam looked up at Kevwe. ‘Where are you going? Is today not your free day?’

‘Yes ma.’ Kevwe curtsied. ‘I just wan see my friend. She wan give me something, I no go tey.’

Madam wrinkled her nose. ‘Hmm…mm, your friend.’

‘Yes ma.’

‘What time is light out?’

‘Twelve midnight ma.’ Kevwe said as she looked at her feet.

‘Make sure you are back before then.’ Madam said as she flicked her hand to dismiss her.

‘Yes ma. Thank you ma.’ Kevwe said as she curtsied again and walked out of the house.

Immediately she was out of the house, she turned into a dark corner around the building. She opened her handbag and took out a black transparent lacy blouse. She removed the Tee-shirt she was wearing quickly and put on the blouse. It hugged her bosom revealing her chest. She put the tee-shirt into her handbag and half-ran to the bus-stop to catch a bus to Obalende. As she boarded the bus, she put a call to Ayo to inform him that she was on her way.

Ayo was seated in the beer parlour opposite the mechanic’s workshop with a bottle of Gulder when Kevwe arrived there. He asked her if she would like to have a beer and she accepted. The waiter served Kevwe a bottle of cold Gulder and she took her time to drink it. Ayo smiled as he looked at her.

‘Wetin dey make you smile?’ Kewve asked.

Ayo shrugged. ‘The last time we were here, you rushed two bottles of beer. I’m wondering how come you are sipping this.’

Kevwe laughed heartily. ‘I no want make e finish on time.’

‘Well, you have to finish this on time if we are going out together.’

Kevwe’s eyes lit up. ‘You wan take me out. To where?’

‘Just finish your drink and let’s go.’ Ayo replied.

Kevwe gulped down her drink in one swig and Ayo had to laugh. He paid the waiter and they both walked out of the parlour. As Kevwe eased into his hyundai accent car, she looked at Ayo and asked again.

‘Tell me where we dey go nau.’

‘Be patient.’ Ayo replied as he switched on the engine.

‘I no be Patience.’

One thing Ayo loved about her was her sense of humour. ‘Okay, since you insist. I am going to watch a movie and I decided to take you with me.’ He smiled as he took his eyes off the road for a few seconds and looked at her.

‘Movie? For cinema?’ Kevwe asked.

‘Yes, at the cinema.’

Kevwe began to dance to an imaginary tune and Ayo laughed.

‘Why are you dancing?’ He asked as a smile played on his lips.

‘Because you dey take me go cinema nau. Nobody don take me go cinema before.’

‘Hmmm….’ Ayo hummed.

‘Yes oh. Who wan take me?’ She asked as she raised her palms up.

‘Well, we are here now.’ Ayo said as he parked his car in front of the Movieroll Cinemas. They both eased out of the car and Ayo held Kevwe by the hand when he noticed she looked a bit apprehensive. They walked to the ticket booth, paid for their tickets and got popcorn and a drink each. Ayo still held on to Kevwe’s hand as their tickets were scanned by the security. They walked into the hall and Ayo found a seat for two at the far end of the hall.

An hour and forty-five minutes later, they both walked out of the hall. Kevwe was all smiles as she eased back into Ayo’s car. Ayo noticed and laughed.

‘I can see you had fun.’ He said.

‘Ha, yes oh. I no no say na like dis inside cinema be sef.’

‘I’m glad you enjoyed yourself.’

‘Thank you Ayo.’

‘You are welcome.’ Ayo smiled as he kicked the ignition and started driving. Ten minutes later, Ayo honked in front of a enormous gate.

‘Which place be dis?’ Kevwe asked.

‘Well, you had been asking to know where I live.’ Ayo smiled as he looked at her.

‘Na your house be dis?’ Kevwe asked as her eyes grew big.

Ayo chuckled. No, this is not my house. We would get to my house soon.’

A security guard opened the gate and Ayo drove into an expansive estate. The estate had mostly duplexes and some bungalows. Some were in varied stages of construction while those that were completed were imposing structures.

Kevwe had her mouth agape as she looked around her. All the streets were well-lit and the environment had a peaceful ambience. Ayo parked his car in front of a white massive duplex. He killed the ignition and looked at Kevwe who was still looking around like a lost child.

‘Are you ready to go in?’ He asked her.

Kevwe turned to look at Ayo. ‘This na your house?’

‘No, Kevwe. It is not mine. It is my Uncle’s house but I also live here. So will you quit the questions and come inside with me?’

Ayo opened his door and stepped out of the car. Kevwe did same and walked towards him.

‘My Uncle lives in the big house. He gave me the boys’ quarters; so I stay at the back. He travelled with his family for vacation; so the house is currently empty.’ Ayo said as he retrieved a bunch of keys from his pocket. He opened the small side gate and led the way into the huge compound. Walking towards the back of the expansive building revealed another building; a bungalow also painted white.

Ayo inserted another key into the keyhole and opened the door of the bungalow. He asked Kevwe to go in while he followed behind. He touched the light button on the wall and Kevwe gasped when she saw the room interior.

‘This one na boy’s quarters?’ She asked as she walked further into the room and touched the white leather couch. It was a seven-seat settee. Kevwe looked round and was amazed. The room had grey wallpapers on the wall and there was a music system at the far end of the room. On the left, there was an en-suite room which was simply furnished. A small kitchen lay on the far right of the living room. Kevwe could not hide her astonishment as she kept looking from one room to the other while Ayo followed closely.

‘Your uncle dey very rich oh.’ She said when she eventually found her tongue.

‘Well….’ Ayo said as he walked towards the settee, picked up a remote control from the centre table and put on the TV. ‘Come over here.’ He said sitting down and patting the seat beside him.

Kevwe; still stunned kept looking around.

‘C’mon, come sit with me. I am sure you have seen bigger houses, so why are you surprised?’

Kevwe grunted. ‘Bigger houses? Guy, house get levels. If your BQ dey like this, how the main house go come dey?’

‘I’m sure you are exaggerating.’ Ayo stood up and pulled Kevwe to sit by him. ‘I want us to talk.’ He continued.

‘Okay.’ Kevwe said as she sat down and faced him.

‘I won’t pretend not to know what you do; and sincerely, I am in no position to tell you what to do and what not to do. I don’t know what pushed you into it but I just want to let you know that I don’t like it and I would be happy if you stopped.’

Kevwe took a deep breath. ‘Ayo, I know wetin you dey talk about but I no get person.’

‘You have me.’

‘You? You wey never see wetin dey under my dress.’

‘I don’t have to see it yet. The time will come; besides, is that the only way you would know that I will always be there for you?’

‘Hmmm.’ Kevwe grunted. ‘I no no wetin to talk. You know how many men don talk to me but all of them na my body dem want. After that, I no dey see them again.’

‘I’m sorry about that. I can only speak for myself.’

‘So wetin you want?’

‘I want you to stop this business you are into.’

Kevwe burst out into laughter. ‘Ayo, you no no anything oh. Business wey dey give me food chop, dey buy me cloth, give me house and everything wey I need.’

‘Is that all?’ Ayo asked her.

‘Wetin remain wey I dey find?’

Ayo sighed. ‘If I give you money monthly for your upkeep, will that be fine? Will it make you stop?’

Kevwe smiled. ‘Ayo, e no fit make me stop. The money you wan give me na to chop. Wetin I wan tell Madam wey give me house if she say make I go work?’

Ayo looked confused. ‘Madam?’

Kevwe hissed. ‘Ayo, make we leave this mata, abeg. You no go understand.’

‘But I want to. Please explain it to me. Who is Madam? You never mentioned you were staying with someone.’

‘How I go tell you?’ Kevwe queried.

‘Please tell me all about it.’ Ayo said as he took her hands in his and looked into her eyes.

Kevwe unable to hold his gaze dropped her head and sighed heavily. Over the past eight weeks, she had grown fond of Ayo and her day wasn’t complete if she had not spoken to him. He looked, dressed and talked decently and he was someone she would like to spend the rest of her life with. But she knew that wish was impossible. She knew this whirlwind romance between them would end one day as he would look for someone in his class and not a low-life like her. It hurt but she had learned to accept her fate. In times past, she wished she was not born into the family she was, but pondering over that only made her depressed. She had therefore decided to be happy and make the best use of every opportunity she had or came by.

‘I’m listening.’ Ayo said as he lifted up her chin.

Kevwe started her story right from when she was young. Her drunk father, her prostitute mother and the lack of care. She told him about how she was sold to Madam because her mother could not pay up the debt she owed. She told him about how Madam had been her sole source of help as she gave her food, clothes and accommodation. Madam told her for every help she rendered, she needed to payback by being her service girl. She had had no choice and her journey to prostitution began.

Tears spilled down Kevwe’s cheeks as she spoke. It wasn’t the kind of life she wanted but she had no choice in the situation. If she wasn’t wanted by her parents, who would want her? She was not ready to go looking for either her mum or dad’s family. As far as she was concerned, her parents and their families were all dead to her.

Ayo’s heart broke as he listened to her. What a life. He immediately felt sorry that he had judged her in his heart. He knew she had a story but he never imagined it was this bad. Kevwe tried to continue her story but she sobbed so much that she began to gasp as she spoke. Ayo pulled her closer and hugged her.

‘It is okay, darling. Please stop talking about it.’ He said as he caressed her hair. ‘I’m sorry you had to go through all this. I am here now.’

‘I….I….’ Kevwe was saying but she was hushed by Ayo.

‘Sshhh. It is okay.’ Ayo whispered and wiped her tears with his thumb. ‘I’m glad I know all this now.’ He said as he lifted her chin and kissed her lips tenderly.

Kevwe kissed him back and held on to him tightly. She caressed him as she did and Ayo’s body began to come alive. He tried to push her back but Kevwe refused to let him go as she continued to kiss him. She began to unbutton his shirt in a hurry. Ayo knowing what she wanted, stopped her as he held her back.

‘I’m not ready for this.’ He said; holding on to her hands.

‘Why?’ Kevwe asked astonished and breathing hard.

‘The time is not right.’

‘Wetin you dey talk for mouth, Ayo? Why you come bring me to your house?’

‘Kevwe, I wanted us to talk. That is why I brought you here.’

Kevwe was dumbfounded. ‘I no understand. You bring me come your house because you wan talk. Why you no talk for cinema? Why you dey ask me all these questions?’

Ayo breathed hard as he looked at Kevwe and took her face in his hands.

Kevwe slapped his hands away and stood up abruptly. ‘Come carry me go house. I no fit sleep outside if I no dey work. Madam go don dey look time for me.’

Ayo looked at his wrist watch. It was a quarter to 11p.m. ‘Don’t you think you should sleep here? It is late already.’

Kevwe burst into laughter and Ayo was confused.

She sneered. ‘Me, Kevwe? Sleep for your house? You wey dey speak English now as I touch you. You wan make I sleep for your house. You no serious. Abeg, come carry me go my house, jare. If you no fit carry me go, give me money make I go charter taxi.’

Ayo sighed and stood up. ‘If that is what you want, I will take you home.’

In a few minutes, they both eased into Ayo’s car. Kevwe was quiet all through the journey while Ayo was confused. He really liked Kevwe but he was not ready to sleep with her yet. Uppermost on his mind at the moment was getting her out of prostitution.

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Omoshalewa – Episode 8

The next day, Tunde called Shalewa while she was in the office. She decided to pick up his call this time.

“Hi Shalewa, what’s going on? I was worried sick yesterday when you did not pick up your calls.” Tunde said.

“I’m fine. There’s nothing wrong.” She said then paused. “In actual fact, there is.”

“Oh my! What’s wrong?” Tunde asked with concern.

“We need to talk.”

“Dinner at 7?” Tunde asked.

Shalewa quickly scanned through her calendar. “Fine. Pick me up, I’ll send the driver home.”

“Okay then. See you at 7.” Tunde said.

Shalewa cut the call and took a deep breath. She closed her eyes as she mentally calculated how to break the news to Tunde. She could not continue to live this lie.

At 7.00pm, Tunde drove into the office premises where Shalewa’s office was situated. As he parked his car, he dialed her number from his phone which was attached to a cell phone holder on the dashboard. She picked up on the first ring and responded that she would be with him in five minutes.

About three minutes later, Shalewa walked out of the office complex. She was wearing a grey pant suit and Tunde smiled as he saw her. She is beautiful; he said to no one. He quickly took out a mouth spray from his glove box and freshened his breath.

As Shalewa eased into the car, Tunde planted a kiss on her cheeks. He engaged the gear and drove out of the car park. “So what’s wrong?” He said looking at her.

“Hey, I just got here. Can we talk over dinner?”

Tunde shrugged as he stretched his hand to hold hers. He noticed she was not receptive to his gesture but he refused to comment.

They arrived at their destination in fifteen minutes. They took a seat at a table for two and placed their orders. Tunde tried to make light conversations with Shalewa but she seemed distracted.

Their orders arrived and they began to eat. Tunde was almost done with his meal when he spoke up. “Shalewa, why are you keeping me in suspense? What’s the problem?”

Shalewa dropped her fork and looked at him. “Well, I had no intention of spoiling your dinner; that’s why I decided to hold on till you were done.”

“I’m all ears.” He said; looking at his plate as he tried to cut a piece of chicken.

“I need a break.”

Tunde put the piece of chicken in his mouth as he nodded, looking up at Shalewa. “A break? Why don’t you discuss with your dad. He may give you some time off.”

“That’s not what I mean, Tunde. I wasn’t referring to work. I mean a break from this relationship.”

Tunde’s eyes widened. He dropped his cutlery gently and took a sip of his drink. “A break from me?”

“Well, if you would rather put it that way.”

“Our wedding is in a few weeks.”

“I am aware of that. The more reason why I need a break.” Shalewa said as she looked at him straight-faced.

“But…but Shalewa, what went wrong?”

“I just need to sort out my feelings.”

“I thought we were past this.”

“No, we weren’t. We never were.”

Tunde was confused. “But you agreed to marry me?”

“To satisfy you and my dad. Have you forgotten so soon?”

Tunde pushed his half-eaten plate of chicken aside and held Shalewa’s hands on the table. “Please don’t do this to us. I love you.”

Shalewa pulled her hands from his grip. “Tunde, don’t make this more difficult than it already is. I can’t continue to live a lie.

Tunde took a deep breath.

“I would like to go home now. I can call a cab if you don’t mind.”

“I brought you here; the least I can do is drop you at home.” Tunde said as he stood up and signaled to the waiter to bring the bill. The waiter arrived with the bill and Tunde took out some notes from his wallet and slid it into the bill pouch.

Once the waiter turned away, Shalewa stood up, picked up her handbag and walked ahead while Tunde sauntered behind her.

********

Five days later, Tunde walked into Shalewa’s office to have a business meeting with her father. As the elevator doors opened, he saw Shalewa and a guy laughing in front of the elevator. He was surprised at the ease with which Shalewa chatted with him and he noticed there was a sparkle in her eyes.

“Hi Shalewa.” He said; trying to catch her attention.

Shalewa looked at him and the smile on her face faded. “Hi Tunde.”

Tunde waited expecting an introduction. When he noticed Shalewa was not going to do the honours, he decided to go ahead. “Hi.” He said as he stretched out his hand. “I’m Tunde, Shalewa’s fiancé.”

“Akin.” He said as he smiled and accepted Tunde’s hand shake. “So I get to meet you Tunde. You are the one who swept my best friend off her feet.”

Shalewa eyed Akin.

“So where are you guys off too?” Tunde asked; ignoring Akin’s comments and looking at Shalewa.

“Lunch.” Shalewa said as she looked at Akin. “Are we still going, Akin?”

“Of course.” Akin replied. “Bye Tunde. It’s a pleasure meeting you.” He continued as he did a mock bow.

Tunde watched as Shalewa and Akin stepped into the elevator. The elevator doors closed and Tunde stood transfixed to the spot. Akin, Shalewa’s best friend? How come I have never heard about him? Was he the reason Shalewa had asked for a break? She looked so happy chatting with him and there was a sparkle in her eyes when she looked at him. I have to find out who this new best friend is.

As Shalewa eased into Akin’s car, she looked at him in anger. “What was that for?”

Akin faked ignorance. “What? I don’t understand.”

“Oh come off it, Akin. You know what I am talking about; the charade with Tunde.”

“Oh that.” Akin said laughing. “Did I say something wrong there?”

“Akin?”

“Yes, Shally babe.” Akin said as he leaned forward and planted a kiss on her cheeks. “You are still engaged to him. Don’t forget that and as far as I know” – He said tapping his fingers on his nose – “Your wedding is in a few weeks.”

“Please don’t remind me.”

“So can I drive off now or are we having Tunde for lunch?”

Shalewa gave him a scornful look as Akin burst out laughing.

******

Later that evening, Mr. Samuel was seated in the living room with his wife watching the evening news. There was a glass of juice on the side stool beside each of them. Shalewa walked in at about 9.30pm. She knelt down to greet her parents and headed straight for her room.

“Shalewa, please sit down.” Her father said.

Shalewa walked back and took a seat opposite her parents.

Bayo retrieved the remote control from the side stool and switched off the TV. He looked at Shalewa; his face grim. “Your mum and I felt it was important we spoke to you this night.”

Funke nodded.

“You usually don’t come in this late and we have been wondering what has changed. Of recent, you have been coming in later than usual. And I know you have been leaving the office same time as you usually did. Is there something we should know?”

“Nothing dad.” Shalewa answered as she looked straight at her dad.

Mr. Samuel nodded. “Tunde came for a business meeting today and he was asking about Akin. He was wondering how come you suddenly had a best friend he wasn’t aware of. I had to explain the friendship between you and Akin. He also said you asked for a break some days ago. Is that right, Shalewa?”

“Yes, I did.”

“Okay, so I am assuming this break is for a few days, then you can go back to your wedding preparations.”

“No dad. It is not for a few days. I am breaking up with Tunde.” She said; the muscles of her face taut as she refused to break eye contact with her father.

“I want to assume that because you are tired and stressed, you are probably not thinking right. So I would let you go to bed now, then we can talk about this tomorrow.” Bayo said.

“There is nothing to talk about, dad. I am not getting married to Tunde.”

“Will you shut up your mouth there?” Bayo said getting angry.

Funke patted her husband’s hands. “Please darling, not this way.” She pleaded.

“What do you mean? Did you hear what your daughter is spewing out of her mouth?” He said; looking at his wife in irritation.

“Shalewa, you can go to bed. We would talk about this tomorrow when everyone is calmer.” Funke said to her daughter.

“Good night mum, good night dad.”

“Good night Shalewa.” Funke said as Bayo ignored his daughter.

After Shalewa left the living room, Funke looked at her husband. “Darling, I think we need to be careful with the way we handle this matter.”

Bayo looked at his wife, shock clearly written on his face. “You can’t be serious. Are you also in support of her behaviour?

“I am not. I just feel we should tread carefully.”

“What exactly are you saying Funke?” Bayo asked infuriated.

“What I am saying is this. Haven’t you noticed that she seems happier than she was before? Since Akin’s arrival, her behaviour has changed. She has dropped the look of gloom that was always on her face and she is back to how she was before we forced this relationship with Tunde on her.” Funke said; trying to make her husband understand.

“Are you saying she is in love with Akin?” Bayo looked at his wife perplexed.

Funke sighed. “I am saying she never stopped loving him.”

Bayo laughed. “You can’t be serious Funke. What do you mean she never stopped loving him? They were friends as kids and they have both moved on.”

“They were not just friends fifteen years ago, Bayo. They loved each other and they obviously never stopped.”

“What are you saying? They were kids. What did they know about love?”

“Well, they knew enough to keep them in love with each other fifteen years after.”

Bayo was surprised. “But how do you know they loved each other?”

Funke smiled as she placed her hand on her husband’s. “Do you remember when Akin’s parents told us they were moving their son out of the country to continue his education?”

Bayo nodded. “Yes, I do.”

“Your daughter was heartbroken. She cried out to me and asked that I tell Akin’s parents not to send him away. She thought Akin’s parents were intentionally trying to separate them.”

Bayo’s eyes grew big as his jaw dropped.

“Yes darling.” Funke nodded. “That was when I realized all their time together wasn’t for a lack of siblings. It was because they loved each other. I guess her heart had always been with Akin.”

Bayo let out his breath.

“Akin’s arrival has changed her completely. She is happier and you can’t miss the glint in her eyes anytime she sees him.”

Bayo rubbed his temples. “Has he said anything to her? I mean, has he proposed to her?”

“I don’t think so. With another man’s ring on her finger, I doubt it.”

“Will you talk to her then? She should let you know what Akin’s intentions are. Her wedding is supposed to be in a few weeks.” Bayo breathed hard. “I never imagined I would have to do this.” – He looked at his wife as he continued – “Cancelling the wedding of my only daughter.”

“I know you long for her happiness, you don’t have a choice.”

——-

Photo credit: http://lightninglegal.biz/

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Omoshalewa – Episode 7

Shalewa drove home with Akin tailing behind. All through the journey home, she smiled as she kept her eyes on the rear mirror. She still could not believe that Akin, her first love was back in town. Oh Akin, how much I longed for you all these years. And now, you waltz back into my life at this time; when all hope is lost. She shook her head as she sighed. Why did you have to wait this long? She soliloquized.

She drove into her residence and asked the gateman to allow Akin in as well. As she eased out of her car, she waited for Akin. Akin got out of his car and strolled towards her. As he got to her, he held her hand and kissed it with a smile on his face. They both proceeded to walk towards the main door hand in hand. As they were about stepping into the main house, Akin whispered something into Shalewa’s ears and she burst out into laughter.

Funke looked up from the fashion magazine she was browsing through when she heard Shalewa’s laughter. Shalewa walked up to her mum and bent halfway to kiss her on the cheeks. She dropped her handbag on the couch as Funke picked up her glasses from the side stool. She put it on to have a good look at the person walking in behind Shalewa. As she recognized him, Akin smiled as he touched the floor in a half prostrate.

“Good evening ma.” He said.

Funke stood up to give him a hug. “Ah..ah, Akin!!!” She exclaimed.

“Yes ma.”

“Wow! It’s been how many years?”

“Fifteen years ma.” He replied grinning.

“How are your parents?”

“They are fine thank you, ma. I spoke to them on the drive down here and they asked me to send their greetings.”

Shalewa beamed with smiles as she looked at her mum and Akin.

“When did you arrive? It is so nice seeing you again.”

Akin smiled. “I arrived a few weeks ago.”

“Ah…ah, Akin!” Funke said stressing his name. “You have grown into a fine young man. Please sit down, my dear. What do we offer you?”

“I am okay ma. Shalewa and I had some drinks before coming. I just wanted to stop by to say hi after a long time. I have missed you and daddy a lot.”

“Oh, thank you. That is nice of you but he is not home yet.” Funke said.

“No worries ma. Since I have seen you, I have seen daddy.” Akin said as they all burst into laughter. “I should take my leave now. Thank you for taking very good care of Shalewa.”

Shalewa blushed as she looked at her mum. “Ah, do I have a choice?” Funke asked as she raised her palms heavenwards.

“Let me walk you out.” Shalewa said to Akin.

Akin did another bow towards Shalewa’s mother as he stretched forth his hand towards Shalewa. Shalewa immediately took his hand and they walked out of the living room smiling.

Akin eased into his car still holding Shalewa’s hand. He started the ignition and looked lovingly into her eyes.

“I almost feel like you shouldn’t leave.” Shalewa said.

Akin smiled. “I don’t want to as well but you know I have to go.”

“Yeah, I know.” Shalewa said looking downcast.

Akin pulled her closer as he raised up her chin and planted a kiss on her forehead. He caressed her face with his thumb and smiled.

Shalewa smiled back. The unspoken feelings between them saying a thousand words with their eyes.

“Give me your phone.”

“It’s in my handbag. I dropped it in the living room.” Shalewa replied.

Akin picked up his phone from the passenger seat and handed it over to her. She typed in her number immediately.

“Expect my call.” Akin said as he saved the number.

“Definitely.”

Akin engaged the gear and drove towards the gate. The gateman opened up and he drove out of the Samuel’s residence.

Shalewa walked into the house smiling to herself. She met her mum shutting the window blinds as she sauntered into the living room. Funke sighed as Shalewa walked in.

“Mum?” Shalewa said as she gave her mother a curious look.

Funke sat down and tapped the couch. “Please sit down.”

Shalewa obeyed as she sat beside her mum. “Is anything the matter?”

“Yes. I watched the display between you and Akin.” Shalewa’s smile faded immediately. “I don’t think it is right considering that you are getting married very soon.”

“Is that all you have to say, mum?” Shalewa asked beginning to get upset.

“Omoshalewa, listen to me. Tunde loves you….”

“And Akin doesn’t?” Shalewa asked cutting her mother short.

“Shalewa!!! You should concentrate on your wedding preparations.” Her mother said scolding her.

“I have had enough of this, mum. Can I leave now?” Shalewa asked as she picked up her bag from the couch and stood up in anger.

Funke looked at her daughter as she sighed deeply.

Without another word from her mother, Shalewa stormed to her bedroom slamming the door shut.

Shalewa’s phone began to ring. She had been lying down on her bed fully clothed the last one hour. She stood up and walked towards her mini-library where she had dropped her handbag in anger. She took out her phone, looked at the caller ID, hissed and flung the phone on her bed. The phone rang three more times but she refused to pick up the call.

Ten minutes later, her mum tapped on her door once and walked in. Shalewa’s back was turned to the door. “Yes mum.”

“Tunde has been trying to reach you. He says your phone keeps ringing out. He was worried and called me to ask if you were okay.”

“I’m okay.” Shalewa said; not turning back to look at her mum.

“Don’t you think you should pick up his call or at least return the call to let him know that?”

“I’m not interested. If he calls back, you can tell him I am fine.”

“But not interested in picking his call?”

Shalewa turned to look at her mum. “Mum, I really want to be alone. Please can you do that?”

Funke shrugged and sighed as she walked out of her daughter’s room.

*******

Shalewa was beginning to doze off when her phone began to ring again. “Oh goodness.” She said as she picked up the phone in anger. She was about to switch off the phone when the Truecaller app on it brought up a name. She rose up immediately and picked the call.

“Hey.”

“Sounds like you were not expecting my call.”

“I was.”

“Maybe your heart was but your body wasn’t.”

Shalewa smiled. Even though they were apart, he still noticed the seemingly minute details. “I did not realize I had dozed off.”

“I should allow you rest then. You are probably tired.”

“No, no, please.” Shalewa said with a tone of urgency. “I really want to talk to you.”

“How are you doing?”

Shalewa sighed. “Akin, I really can’t say I am doing fine.”

“So what happened between when I left your place and now?”

“It’s mummy. She won’t let me rest.”

Akin laughed. “Let you rest? I don’t understand.”

“It’s about my wedding to Tunde.”

“Okay, so what about it? I remember you said you were not in love with him?” Akin asked chuckling.

“Akin, this ain’t funny. I’m not in love with him but why is it so difficult for everyone to understand?” Shalewa asked irritated.

“Everyone except me.”

“I don’t know what to do, Akin. I am confused.”

“That is because you haven’t told them what you want.”

“But I have, they just won’t listen.”

“Then make them listen.” Akin said matter-of-factly.

Shalewa was quiet for a few seconds. She nodded her head and said; “Right? I think I know what to do.”

“That’s my Shally babe.” Akin said laughing.

Shalewa smiled as she closed her eyes and listened to the sound of Akin’s laughter. Fifteen years had not changed anything between them.

They chatted for another two hours moving from one topic of discussion to another until they both began to yawn continuously into each other’s ears. They laughed over that as well before they bade each other good night.

——-

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

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Omoshalewa – Episode 6

The next day, one of the major soft-sell magazines in the country had the blazing headlines; “Billionaire Samuel’s daughter rejects engagement proposal from business magnate.” Bayo was furious when he saw the magazine. He brought the magazine home and dumped it in front of Funke. “What is the meaning of this?”

Funke looked at him wondering what had gotten him so upset. She picked up the magazine and saw the caption. “Oh my goodness!” She lamented.

“She can’t continue doing this. This has to stop. Let her know that I give her 3 months to make up her mind or else…..” Bayo said in anger as he allowed his sentence to trail off.

Funke asked her husband to sit down in a bid to calm him down. “Please seat down, Olowo ori mi (my crown).”

Bayo sat down still upset. Funke scooted close to him and took his hands in hers. “I know you love Shalewa so much and you want the best for her but don’t you think, we should give her a chance to decide who she wants to get married to.”

Bayo looked at his wife, shock written all over his face. “Funke, you did not just say that, did you?”

Funke gesticulated as she tried to explain. “She says she is not in love with Tunde and that we are forcing her to get married to him against her will.”

“Okay? So tell me. Who is she in love with?” Bayo said as he stood up and put his hands on his waist. “I want to know.”

Funke was quiet and unable to look at her husband’s face.

“I thought as much.” He said. “She is only in love with herself.”

“But you know that is not true.” She said looking up. “She has had relationships in the past but they were all after wealth.”

“And Tunde?” Bayo asked as he searched his wife’s face for an answer.

Funke stood up with a deep sigh.

“Go and talk to her.” Bayo said with finality as he pointed towards the bedrooms.

******

Funke tapped the door to her daughter’s bedroom once and let herself in. Shalewa was already in her night wear and about to get into bed. She smiled as her mum walked in. “Hello mum.”

“Omoshalewa, why are you doing this to me?”

Shalewa looked at her mum with a confused look. “I don’t understand what you are saying.”

“I am tired of this back and forth between you and your dad. Did you see the headlines of that wretched soft-sell magazine?”

Shalewa sighed. “Yes mum, I did. I wonder who is feeding those lousy reporters with tales about me.”

“That is not the point right now, Shalewa.”

“I have heard you mum. I will do what you and dad want. I will accept Tunde’s proposal.”

Funke was shocked. “You will?”

“Isn’t that what both of you want?”

“It is not about what we want. It is about your happiness. That is what your father and I are after.”

“I know mum. I know.”

Funke hugged her daughter. “I know you will be happy with Tunde and make us proud grandparents.”

Shalewa rolled her eyes behind her mum’s back as she left her hands hanging by her side.

Funke stood up from her daughter’s bed excited. “Your father will be happy to hear this.” She said as she kissed her daughter on the forehead.

 

Preparations began in earnest for an introduction of the two families. Two weeks later, Tunde’s grandmother and a few of his family members were welcomed in the home of the Samuel’s. A date was fixed for the engagement four weeks away. The engagement ceremony was done with pomp and pageantry. The pictures of the couple and their families were splayed in newspapers and soft-sell magazines for weeks; each one in a bid to outdo the other with details of the ceremony. It became the most talked about engagement party of the year and no expense was spared.

Shalewa, even though looking beautiful and expensively adorned; knew that she was getting married to fulfill her parents desire. Friends and family congratulated her and told her she was very lucky to have a handsome young man. She smiled back a response to each one refusing to utter words.

Bayo Samuel informed his family that the wedding ceremony of his only daughter would be a destination wedding. He asked Shalewa to pick a destination of her choice and began to make preparations towards it. It was agreed that the wedding would hold six weeks after the engagement.

*******

Three weeks to the wedding, Shalewa went to her neighbourhood shopping mall one evening to get some groceries. As she walked down the aisle of the departmental store, she noticed someone staring at her. She was used to stares especially from admirers by now and with her recent highly publicized engagement, she knew her popularity had been moved one notch up.

“Hi, you are Shalewa Samuel, right?” She heard someone behind her ask. Of course, I am. Who does not know me in town? She looked up to give a nasty answer and suddenly gasped; her hand flying to her mouth.

“Akin Savage?” She asked; not believing her eyes. He nodded and they both embraced each other in a tight hug refusing to let go.

“Where have you been? I waited for your letters but got none.” Shalewa asked.

Akin took a step back, held Shalewa at arm’s length as he admired her.

I did not know what to think. I assumed you forgot about me.” Shalewa said pouting her lips in mock anger.

“How could I forget about you, Shalewa? I thought about you day and night.” Akin said.

“I asked my parents if they could reach you but they were also at a loss and could not give me an answer. I was heartbroken, Akin.”

Akin held Shalewa’s hand and kissed it. “I know, my love. I was too. Let us go to a café so we can talk.”

Akin walked out of the departmental store with Shalewa’s hands in his. There was a café in the shopping mall and they took a table for two in a private corner. A waiter took their orders and returned shortly with two glasses of chapman.

Akin smiled as he looked at Shalewa. “You are still as beautiful as you were fifteen years ago.”

Shalewa blushed as she hit Akin on his arms playfully. “C’mon, you have not changed. Still teasing me like you used to then.”

Akin sighed as he held her hands on the table. “Shally babe, I never forgot about you.”

Shalewa smiled as she remembered the name Akin called her when they were younger. No one had called her that in the last fifteen years.

Akin continued. “How could I? You were my first love.” He caressed her hands with his fingers as he looked into her eyes. “I wrote maybe a thousand letters but they were never delivered. Do you remember that my parents and I left for the U.S together?”

Shalewa nodded as she listened intently.

“They wanted to help me settle down before returning to Nigeria. According to my mum, on their return six months after, your family had moved out of the neighbourhood and left no forwarding address. I asked my mum to do everything she could to help me find you but all her efforts were futile. Two years after, my parents relocated to the U.S.  I only come to Nigeria on visits. So what have you been doing with yourself the last fifteen years?” Akin asked.

Shalewa shrugged. “We moved out of the neighbourhood. My dad’s businesses started doing very well and he made sure he sent me to a good university. I concluded my postgraduate program a few months back.” She said smiling.

“Wow, congratulations! You definitely did well for yourself. So, you married now?” Akin asked looking at her fingers.

Shalewa’s smile faded immediately. “Engaged. The wedding is in a few weeks.”

“You don’t sound excited.”

“I’m not.”

“Why? You love him, don’t you?”

Shalewa took a deep breath. “No, I don’t.”

Akin was surprised. “So why are you getting married to him?”

“Because I have been unlucky with men. Every guy in my past has been after dad’s wealth. Tunde has proved not to be one of such and dad feels he should marry me off before I lose him.”

“I’m sorry about that.”

“What about you?” Shalewa asked. “Are you married now?”

“Well, I wouldn’t say I have been unlucky. I have had my fair share of ladies but none has been able to strike the right chord in my heart.”

“Why? Have you been so hard on yourself?”

“I don’t think so. I just haven’t been able to get you out of my mind even after fifteen years.”

Shalewa blushed as she looked away. “Akin, it is complicated.” She said sighing.

“I don’t understand. What is complicated?”

Shalewa looked at him. “You know, I never forgot about you as well. I kept on hoping this day would come. I even went as far as searching for you on Facebook but the search was always fruitless.”

Akin caressed Shalewa’s face with his fingers. “I’m sorry you went through all that. I don’t do social media. Never been a fan of any of the platforms. So, you getting married to him?” Akin looked at her curiously.

“I don’t love him. I never had but no one seems to understand. They all say I would grow in love for him but I haven’t been able to. Akin, you were my first love. We were young but I loved you and sincerely, I think I still do.”

“You think? That means you aren’t sure.” Akin teased.

“Oh, come off it, Akin.” Shalewa hit him playfully.

“I love you Shalewa. I have always done and will do forever”.

“So what do we do?”

Akin answered getting serious. “I think we should just take this one day at a time. First, I would like to see your parents again. I have missed them.” He said smiling. “Just maybe, we would be able to tell them about the future we discussed together many years ago.”

Shalewa raised her eyebrows. “No, not today.”

Akin burst out into laughter as he pointed in her direction. “I got you there.”

“Oh Akin, will you ever be serious for once?”

“Nope, remember that was one of the reasons you fell in love with me fifteen years ago?”

Akin signaled to the waiter, paid the bill and dropped a generous tip. Shalewa stood up as Akin put his hand on the small of her back. They walked out of the café together smiling.

——-

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

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Omoshalewa – Episode 5

Two days later, Tunde decided to call Shalewa. She picked up on the second ring. “Hi dear.”

“Hi Tunde. How are you doing?”

“I’m good. And you?”

“I’m doing well.”

“I wanted to apologize about the other day. Introducing you to my grandma when you were not ready was not the right thing to do. I don’t want you to feel rushed. Please, I’m sorry.”

Does he really understand that it wasn’t about the introduction? I am never going to be ready. “It’s fine Tunde.” She said as she exhaled. “I’m glad I met her. She is still very strong and agile at her age.”

Tunde relaxed letting out a hearty laugh. “Yes, you are right. Do you know she arranges and rearranges her home by herself? She says she does it to keep her busy.”

Shalewa smiled. “I hope you call her from time to time. I’m sure she would love to talk to you every day if she could.”

“I try my bit. I know I don’t call her as often as I should.” Tunde was quiet for a few seconds. “Is my apology accepted?”

“Yes.”

“Thanks Shalewa. I appreciate this.”

“You are welcome.”

They talked about other random issues before putting an end to their call thirty minutes later.

********

The next four weeks went by smoothly; with Shalewa and Tunde visiting each other’s homes and having private dinners.

One night, Tunde decided to hang out with his friends in a night club. They took a table of four and threw banters at each other.

“Guy, wetin dey happen with your chic nau?” Segun said facing Tunde. He was sipping from a champagne flute and it was obvious he was beginning to get tipsy.

“Abeg leave Tunde with im chic oh. Billionaire daughter. I can imagine the headlines when they marry. Tunde, the business magnate gets married to billionaire Samuel’s daughter.” Chibuzor said as he raised up his right hand to dramatize.

“C’mon guys. But you know I love Shalewa. This is not about her father’s money.” Tunde said.

“Oh yeah! You really do?” Momoh said as he burst out in laughter.

“You guys should get serious for once.” Tunde said scolding his friends.

Chibuzor looked at the faces of his friends before bursting into laughter. “Serious? You think we are unserious?”

“That’s not what I mean. I need your support, that’s all I am asking for. I want to propose to her soon.”

“Hey congrats man. You caught a big fish.” Segun said as she stretched out his hand to shake Tunde.

Tunde shook his head. “Segun, I think you should slow down on the drinks. You have never been good with alcohol.”

“Who says?” Segun asked; his words beginning to get slurred.

“Anyway, let’s toast to Tunde’s proposal to billionaire daughter.” Chibuzor said as the other two raised their glasses.

Tunde refused to raise his glass but Momoh nudged him. “C’mon it’s your day. Let’s celebrate.”

********

It was a Saturday and Tunde’s thirty-fifth birthday. He had planned a small birthday party for himself; intending to celebrate the day with a few friends. His grandmother had woken him up with heartfelt prayers as she had gone on and on with blessings for his life, his fiancée and his business.

He stepped out of bed after her prayers and took a look at himself in the bedside mirror. At thirty-five, he had not done badly. His business was doing well, he lived in his own house and his relationship with Shalewa had been smooth the past few weeks. He took a quick shower before going downstairs to monitor the caterers who had started trooping in. They had been allowed in by his house-keeper and his dining table already looked busy with various chafing dishes. He smiled as he sauntered towards his music system and slotted in a jazz CD putting it on auto-repeat.

His friends arrived at about 1.00p.m and immediately made themselves comfortable with drinks. He warned them that there would be no alcohol as he did not want anyone to ruin his day. Even though, they kicked against the idea, they realized they had no choice and decided to make do with the mocktails served by the waiters.

Shalewa arrived 30 minutes later with her driver carrying a massive cake behind her. Tunde’s friends became green with envy as Shalewa gave Tunde a birthday kiss on his cheeks. Tunde had invited about two of Shalewa’s close friends and they also arrived a few minutes later.

With all guests present, the party got lively and everyone chatted, laughed, ate and drank. After about two hours into the party, Tunde strolled towards the music system and decided to change the CD playing to another. KC and Jojo’s “All my life” began to play, filling the house with their sonorous voices. He walked towards Shalewa where she sat chatting with her friends and asked for a dance. Shalewa was caught unawares and wondered what was going on but her friends urged her.

Tunde held Shalewa by the waist as he sang along to the music playing. As the music drew to a close, Tunde went down on one knee and brought out a small box from his jeans pocket. Shalewa was shocked and began to shake her head. Tunde opened the box to reveal a sparkling diamond ring. “Please marry me, Shalewa.” He said.

Shalewa was stunned as she looked at Tunde who was grinning from ear to ear; still on his knees awaiting her answer. Her friends cheered her on while Tunde’s friends were whistling. Shalewa closed the box in Tunde’s hands and his smile faded off immediately.

“Can we talk about this in your room?” Shalewa asked.

Everyone was shocked at the drama that has just happened. Tunde got up and he led Shalewa by the hand up the stairs to his room. He looked at his friends and signaled to them to continue the party.

 

Tunde shut the door to his room and rested his head on it. “What have I done to deserve this, Shalewa?”

Shalewa paced round the room unable to utter a word.

“Shalewa?” Tunde called; his voice more like a guttural sound.

She stopped pacing and stood before him. “I wasn’t expecting it. At least, not in front of everyone downstairs.”

Tunde raised his head to look at her. “They are my closest friends and two of your friends. There are no strangers down there.”

“You don’t get it, do you? I’m not ready for this.” Shalewa said in frustration.

“Shalewa, when would you be ready? When? I have never loved any woman the way I love you and I have never been hurt so much by any woman except you.”

“I’m sorry, Tunde. Please understand.” Shalewa said as she moved closer to Tunde.

Tunde shook his head in pity as he walked towards the massive bed in his room. “I am out of ideas of how to make you fall in love with me. We have been on this for about six months now and there has been no headway.”

Shalewa walked to the bed and knelt before Tunde. “I know my dad is behind the rush for our wedding. Why don’t we give it some time? Would you prefer I get married to you without loving you?”

Tunde took a deep breath as he held Shalewa’s hand. He cradled her face lovingly with his right hand and traced her lips with his fingers. Shalewa closed her eyes savouring the feel of his fingers on her lips. Tunde moved closer as he took her lips in his kissing her slowly but passionately. He pulled her up from her kneeling position as he continued to kiss her; the fire of passion steadily burning in him. Shalewa suddenly put her hands on his chest and pushed him back gently.

“I think I should leave now.” She said as she stood up and adjusted her dress.

Tunde closed his eyes and nodded his head. “I think so too. You can leave.”

“Are you sure you will be okay?” Shalewa asked.

“I’m fine.” Tunde answered; his eyes still closed.

Shalewa stretched her hand to touch him but changed her mind and dropped it immediately. She looked at herself in the mirror in his room, straightened out her hair and walked out.

 

As she walked down the stairs, her friends were smiling and winking at her. She sauntered towards them and informed them that she needed to leave. They were surprised but she lied that something came up in the office that needed her attention urgently.

After Shalewa’s unceremonious exit, Tunde’s friends waited expecting to see him return downstairs. After about ten minutes, his friends urged Momoh to go check on him in his room. Tunde was still seated at the same spot he was when Shalewa left the room. He had his head in his hands and did not hear Momoh walk in.

“Guy, it’s your birthday. What are you doing here alone?”

Tunde looked up at his friend and sighed. “I don’t know what to do to get her to love me.”

“Abeg leave mata for Martha. Don’t let that dampen your spirit.” “Who knows you may meet someone else tomorrow who will fall hopelessly in love with you?” Momoh said shrugging.

Tunde gave his friend a confused look.

“C’mon, you should not keep your guests waiting. Let’s get back to the party.” Momoh said as he pulled up his friend from the bed and patted his back.

********

As Shalewa eased into the back seat of her car, she asked the driver to take her straight to the office. She had nothing to do in the office but she needed to be alone. She threw her head backwards and closed her eyes. She hadn’t expected the kiss from Tunde but she had also not stopped him. He was good looking, caring and enterprising. He had proved to be better than all her previous boyfriends. Maybe she was being too hard on him. Maybe she could learn to love him.

As different thoughts filtered through her mind, she made a conscious decision to give him a chance.

——–

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Omoshalewa – Episode 4

Tunde became a constant feature in the home of the Samuels’ walking in and out of their residence at will. Bayo Samuel took his daughter to his office and introduced her to the staff as the new Executive Director. The news made headlines the next day. “Shalewa Samuel becomes Executive Director at Samuel Group of Companies.”

With a business deal sealed between Tunde and Bayo Samuel, the prospects of Tunde getting married to Shalewa were raised. Business meetings in the Samuel Group of Companies became a regular feature in Tunde’s calendar. Bayo Samuel began to relate with him as he would a son-in-law.

One afternoon after a business meeting together, Bayo called Tunde aside. “What’s happening between you and Shalewa? When would I see an engagement ring on her finger?”

Tunde laughed. “Very soon sir. I don’t want her to feel rushed.”

Bayo looked at him with surprise. “Rushed? Her mother and I have accepted you as family already. You should get it done as soon as possible.”

“I will, sir.” Tunde answered.

Bayo looked around as if watching out for eavesdroppers, moved closer to Tunde before whispering in his ears. “You know she isn’t getting any younger. The earlier, the better. Hmm…you get my drift.” He said as he winked at Tunde.

“Yes sir.”

******

 

“Hey darling. How was your day?” Tunde asked later that evening, as Shalewa picked up on the second ring.

“It was okay.”

“Can I pick you up for dinner tonight? Maybe 7.00p.m.”

“Okay. I would still be in the office, though.”

“Works perfectly for me. Just tell the driver to take your car home. I would drop you off after dinner.”

“Okay then.”

 

Three hours later, Tunde and Shalewa were seated in a classy restaurant making small talk over dinner. As they were served dessert, Tunde held Shalewa’s hands on the table and looked lovingly into her eyes.

“Shalewa, I love you with the whole of my heart.”

Shalewa looked away without uttering a word.

“My grandma is eager to meet you. She raised me after I lost my mum and with my dad also gone, she is one person I would love you to meet.”

Shalewa took a deep breath.

“Tunde, I have no issues meeting with your grandma. I would also love to meet the woman who raised a fine young man; but how else do you want me to explain to you that I don’t love you the way you love me. I love our relationship the way it is but I don’t think I am meant for you.”

Tunde smiled as he looked at Shalewa. “I know you love me, maybe not like I do. With time, you would get there.”

“Time? Tunde, we have been seeing each other for some months now and I am yet to fall in love with you. I doubt time will sort this out.”

“Let’s not spoil the evening, okay. We can talk about this some other time.” Tunde concluded.

******

 

Two weeks later, Tunde took Shalewa to see his grandmother. She was delighted to see Shalewa as she began to sing and dance, rejoicing that her eyes had seen her beautiful wife.

Even though Shalewa was happy to see the elderly woman, she was not comfortable with the innuendos from her. She wished she could stop the woman but she felt she would be rude to tamper with the woman’s joy.

 

On the drive back, Shalewa was very quiet as she looked out of the window by her side. Tunde noticed and placed his right hand on hers. “What is the problem, Shalewa?”

“Nothing.”

“You weren’t so quiet when we were going to my grandma’s place.”

“That’s because I had no idea what you had told your grandmother.”

Tunde stopped the car and engaged the gear in park.

“Shalewa, I love you. Don’t you understand?”

“And I don’t.” Shalewa said in exasperation.

“What would you have me do?”

“Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I just want to be left alone.”

Tunde began to drive again without saying a word. He could not understand why Shalewa was blind to the love he had for her. He loved her with the whole of his heart and he looked forward to living the rest of his life with her. He sighed as he slotted a CD into the music player to fill in the silence between himself and Shalewa.

Some minutes later, Tunde drove into the Samuel’s residence. Shalewa said a quiet “thank you” and walked into her house without looking back to say “good bye.”

******

 

The next day, Bayo Samuel was about retiring to bed when he called his wife for a heart to heart discussion. “Funke, I think you need to talk to your daughter. Do you know that she was upset that Tunde took her to see his grandma?”

“His grandma?”

“Yes, I have given him a go-ahead to propose to Shalewa. So, he took her to see his grandma and he mentioned it to me yesterday after our business meeting that she got upset.”

“Ah ah….what is wrong with her nau? Doesn’t she realize that she is no longer a child and needs to get married?”

“Well, I thought the same. You better talk some sense into her. Tunde is a good man, well brought up and enterprising. What else is she looking for?”

Funke exhaled. “I will talk to her.”

 

Shalewa was seated at her mini-library in her room going through some documents she had brought from the office when her mum knocked on the door. Before she could answer, her mum opened the door and peeped in. “Busy?” She asked.

Shalewa looked at her mum and smiled. “Not too busy to talk to my mum.”

Funke walked in and sat on her daughter’s bed. “I hope you are not overworking yourself. You need to take it easy.”

“I know mum. I am not overworking myself. Besides, there was no time to go through all these documents in the office, that is why I decided to bring them home.”

Shalewa turned to face her mum. “So what’s up? Any gist for me?”

Funke sighed.

“Mum? Is there a problem?” Shalewa asked as she stood up from the chair and sat beside her mum on the bed.

“Yes, Omoshalewa mi.”

Shalewa knew what was coming next. Her mum only called her full name when she had something very important to discuss and of recent, the only important issue had been her marital status.

“He told dad, right?”

“Yes, he did.”

“Why would he? What exactly is his problem?” Shalewa asked getting upset.

“Omoshalewa mi, you have no reason to be upset. Tunde loves you and he has proved it over and over again. Do you intend to remain single the rest of your life?”

“No mum. I will get married when I find the right person.”

“The right person? Who else could be more right than Tunde? All your relationships in the past have been based on your father’s wealth. Now, you find someone who loves you for you and you are still looking for the right person. Omoshalewa mi, open your eyes. I am your mother and I will not push you into a pit. God forbid!” Funke lamented as she snapped her fingers over her head.

Shalewa looked away.

“Accept his proposal please and make me and your father happy.”

“He hasn’t proposed, mum.”

“He is about to. Your dad has given him a go-ahead.”

Shalewa stood up in annoyance. “Why is dad interfering with my love-life?”

Funke stood up and held her daughter’s hands. “Because he loves you and he wants the best for you. Tunde is a good man.”

“Okay mum. I have heard you. Can I go back to work now?”

Funke shrugged. “Àbò òrò ni à sö fún ömölúàbí, tó bá dé inú è, á di odindin.” (A word is enough for the wise).

 

After Funke left the room, Shalewa went back to her mini-library but was unable to concentrate. She was upset and angry. Upset at her father’s interference in her love-life and angry that Tunde had suddenly become gold in the eyes of her parents. They were refusing to understand that she wasn’t in love with him. What mattered to them was that he loved her.

She slammed the documents on her table in annoyance. It was no use. The will to go through the documents she had brought home had left her. She decided to go to bed. She laid down and in a few minutes, she drifted off to sleep in anger.

———

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Omoshalewa – Episode 3

Shalewa opened the door and standing before her was a handsome young man who was probably in his mid-thirties. He held a bouquet of red roses and a bottle of wine in his hands. “Hi Shalewa, it’s a pleasure meeting you again after a long while. You still look as pretty as you did years ago.”

“Thanks for the compliment.” Shalewa said.

“This is for you.” Tunde said as he stretched out his hands to handover the bouquet of flowers.

“Thank you. Please come in.” Shalewa said as she stepped aside to usher him in.

“Oh….Tunde, welcome. You were right on time. I love that.” Bayo Samuel said walking into the living room and stretching out his hands to shake the young man. Tunde shook Bayo’s hands with a little bow of the head and also greeted Funke as well.

“Hmm….still very cultured, I must say. Please sit down.” Bayo noted, obviously impressed.

While the women left to the kitchen to organize lunch on the dining table, the men took their time to talk about issues.

“So, do you recognize him?” Funke whispered to her daughter in the kitchen.

“The face does look familiar but no, I still can’t place it.” Shalewa answered, peering into the living room. “He’s handsome, though.”

“So, you like him?” Funke smiled looking at her daughter’s face.

Shalewa gave her mum a puzzled look. “Mum? I never said that. I just said he’s handsome. Please can we go set up the table before the men start to wonder what happened to lunch?” She said stepping out of the kitchen before her mum could utter another word.

 

One hour later

“Thanks for the lunch, ma. It was nice.” Tunde said as they all stood up from the dining table and moved to the living room.

“You are welcome, my dear and I hope you visit more often.” Funke answered smiling.

“On Shalewa’s request, I would.”

“You do not have to wait for Shalewa’s consent to come over.” Bayo Samuel said matter-of-factly.  “This is like your second home. Remember, your late dad and I were buddies way back in the university. You are free to visit anytime.”

Tunde nodded his head.

“Shalewa, your mum and I would be in the study so you can have some time to catch up on old gists with Tunde.” Bayo smiled as he led his wife out of the living room.

“Okay daddy.” Shalewa answered, not appreciating the gesture. What gist did she have to catch up with Tunde? There was no history between them, so what was there to talk about?

They both sat down on opposite ends of the room watching the television. Since there was no history between them and they had nothing to talk about, they discussed about the issues on the television. Shalewa tried to be a good host but wondered if her parents knew that she wasn’t enthusiastic about their match making efforts.

 

Over the next six weeks, Tunde tried as much as possible to impress Shalewa. He would buy her gifts, send her roses and cards and take her out on dinner dates. She liked him, no doubt; but she did not love him. She told him anytime she had the opportunity to but he was adamant that she would grow to love him. “It’s only a matter of time.” He would say.

******

One evening, Shalewa and her mum were seated in the living room watching a late night sitcom on the television. When the commercials began to run, Funke looked at her daughter. “How is your relationship with Tunde going?”

“Relationship?” Shalewa asked, looking at her mum with a confused look on her face.

“Yes, your relationship.”

“Mum, we are just friends. Nothing more.” Shalewa said as she turned back to face the television.

“Tunde does not take you as a friend. It is obvious he loves you very much with the way he dotes over you.”

“Oh mum!!!” Shalewa protested. The commercials were through and she was not ready to have this discussion.

Funke picked up the remote control and switched off the television.

Shalewa groaned, looking at her mother. “What is it, mum?”

“Do I have your full attention now?” Her mother asked.

Shalewa sighed. “Yes mum.”

“Why don’t you give Tunde a chance?”

“I have tried but it’s just not working.”

“What do you mean?”

“He’s a very nice and caring guy but I don’t see him beyond being a friend. I have no feelings for him.”

“Don’t worry darling. You would grow to love him.”

Shalewa’s jaw dropped as she looked at her mum with shock. “You also believe that?”

“Of course. Just give it some time.”

“It is almost two months since we met and I still can’t bring myself to love him. Don’t you think maybe, we are just destined to be friends and nothing more?”

“Your father would be disappointed, Omoshalewa. He’s already making plans for both of you to be together forever.”

“Together forever? Dad is making plans for us to get married without my consent?” Shalewa asked with shock.

“But you haven’t had any relationship that was even close to the altar. Now that you have one, your dad is not letting it slip off your hands and in case you want to know, I’m in total support of it. All the men you previously dated were after your father’s wealth. Tunde is a fine young man who is established and building a good name for himself.”

“So, am I supposed to take it that I do not have a choice?”

Funke sighed as she took her daughter’s hands in hers. “Omoshalewa mi, you are no longer a child. You do have choices but life has given you a golden opportunity to be happy for the rest of your life. What else do you want?”

Episode 3

“I need to love him to get married to him, mum? Is that so difficult for everyone to understand?” Shalewa asked in frustration. “He says I would grow to love him. I am yet to find the root of the love and you want to send me on eternal misery living with a man I do not love?”

“I would leave you to think about it.” Funke said resigning. She stood up as she switched the television on and left her daughter alone in the living room.

*****

Tunde parked his grey Toyota Landcruiser in front of an apartment. He pulled down the visor in front of him and took a look at himself in the mirror. Picking out a small comb from the glove box, he brushed his hair. When he is satisfied with his look, he stepped out of the car, opened the back door and took out a plastic bag. He touched the lock button on the car remote as he walked towards the apartment. The close is quiet as usual.

He tapped the door gently and waited a few seconds before tapping it again. The door is opened to reveal an elderly woman. She is wearing a flowing boubou and her face and hands are wrinkled. She smiled as she hugged Tunde who was already going downwards to prostrate. “Ömö mi, káàbò.” (My son, welcome).

The elderly woman allowed Tunde in as he took a look round the apartment. She never ceased to amaze him with the way she organized things. She had a habit of arranging and rearranging things to keep herself busy. He placed the plastic bag on the dining table which is sparkling as if it had just been polished.

“Öjó wo lo dé láti South Africa?” (When did you come back from South Africa?) She asked as she sat down on a single leather couch.

“Ó ti se díè mà.” (A little while ago, ma).

“Ah….ah, o wá n sèsè n bò wá kí mi.” (And you are just coming to see me?)

“Ë má bínú mà. Bí mo se dé ni isé ti bèrè.” (Please don’t be angry, ma. As soon as I came in, work started).

“Hmm. So how is your business faring?” She asked.

“Adúpé l’ówö Ölórun.” (We thank God).

Tunde moved closer and knelt before her. “You are the only one I have left and I have something very important to tell you.”

She smiled without saying a word.

“I have found a wife.”

“Olúwa o sé o.” (Thank you God). She said as she lifted up her hands to the heavens. “So when are you bringing her here?”

“Very soon, very soon.” Tunde said. “I wanted to inform you first before bringing her.”

“Ìyén náà da.” (That is good).

“Hmm…..” She exhaled. “If only your parents were here, if only Aduke did not have to die at child birth…..” Tears began to make their way down her cheeks.

“Màámi, ë má se báyìí.” (My mother, don’t do this). Tunde pleaded. “Sèbí èyin lë tó mi dàgbà?” (Were you not the one who took care of me?). I never felt motherless because of you.

“Ah, kíni ì bá se?” (What would I have done?) Nígbàtí Àdùké fi é sílè tó lö s’órun (When Aduke left you and departed to the heavens). I had no choice my son.

“Grandma, please it is enough. Today is supposed to be a joyful day not a day of mourning.”

She took a deep breath and touched Tunde gingerly on the cheeks. “Yes, my son. Today is not a day of mourning.”

Tunde walked out of his grandmother’s apartment two hours later after she ensured he had had a meal of amala and ewedu.

——-

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Omoshalewa – Episode 2

“An important visitor! Well, let’s go see who this important visitor is.” Shalewa said to herself as she walked towards her bathroom suite.

As warm water from the shower coursed down her back, she remembered how she had fallen in love with one of her neighbours when she was fifteen. He was just a year older than her. They were both young and naïve but they had loved each other. The park opposite their houses was their favourite spot. They would take walks round it holding hands and gisting. They would sit in the park and talk for hours loosing track of time. They talked about school, their parents, movies and their dreams of the future. They never ran out of what to talk about. They were in different secondary schools as boarding students but that did not deter their friendship. They exchanged letters while they were in school and looked forward to every break in the school session. Everyone in the neighborhood knew where one was, the other had to be there.

Episode 2

One afternoon during the mid-term break of their second year in the senior class, Akin Savage had come running to the park in tears. He looked flustered and was struggling to speak. Shalewa had been sitting down waiting for him. She grabbed him, shaking him as if he were a child that had been caught misbehaving. “What is it? Why are you crying?”

“My…my…my mum says I have to continue my education abroad.” He stammered as he choked on his words.

“Abroad? But why? Your school is one of the best in the country. Why do they want you to go abroad?” Shalewa had asked.

“She says that’s what my dad wants. I don’t know why. I have tried to explain to her that I don’t want to go but she would not listen. She says it has been concluded and that I am leaving in two days.”

“Does that mean I won’t see you again?” Shalewa asked; tears streaming down her cheeks.

“I don’t know.” He answered fidgeting. “Why does my dad want to separate us? Do you think he doesn’t want us to be together?”

Shalewa who was already sobbing could not utter a word. Could it be true that Akin’s dad was trying to separate them? His dad had seen them together on many occasions. Both families were friends and there had never been a complaint from Akin’s father. The two families were regarded as the closest in the neighbourhood. Akin’s father was very wealthy and had sent his son to one of the best schools in the country while Shalewa’s father on the other hand, even though not as wealthy as Akin’s father had prospects of being so. He was a hardworking man with very sharp business instincts.

For a while, both of them sat down locked in each other’s embrace as they sobbed. They could not understand the reason for the sudden movement and it looked like no one was going to give an explanation for it. They tried to talk about what they would do in each other’s absence but it only kept the tears flowing. Sitting right there in the park, they were oblivious to their environment. They just wanted to spend this moment together and cherish it. They promised each other that day to do everything they could to keep in touch and in that moment of sadness; they shared their first kiss. It had been magical even though grief hovered around them. Shalewa had laid her head on Akin’s shoulders and they sat there in silence till the sun went down.

For the next two days, as if on cue, they both avoided the park. Funke had asked her daughter on one occasion. “Shalewa, are you okay? You have not been eating well. Are you worried about something?”

Shalewa had not been sure whether to tell her mum. On second thoughts, she felt she should; maybe her mum could help her convince the Savages not to send their son abroad.

“Mum, could you and dad discuss something with Akin’s dad?” She asked fidgeting with her fingers.

“Okay, and what would that be?” Funke asked.

Shalewa was quiet and unable to look at her mother in the face. She had no idea how to present the issue to her mother.

Funke sensing that her daughter was a little uneasy, pulled her daughter into her arms. “Omoshalewa mi. I’m your mother and you can talk to me. What do you want us to discuss with Akin’s father?”

Shalewa gulped, trying hard to control the tears that were already spilling down her cheeks. “They are sending him away, mum.”

“Sending him away? What do you mean?” Funke asked searching her daughter’s face.

“Mummy, Akin is going abroad. His father doesn’t want him to see me again.” She cried.

All of a sudden, reality hit Funke. The Savages had told them about their intention to send their son to the United States to continue his education but both parents had obviously underestimated the friendship between their kids. Being the only children of both parents, they had assumed that the lack of siblings had attracted them to each other and believed that was the basis for their friendship. They never thought there was more to the walks in the park and the long hours of chatting.

“Hmm…Omoshalewa mi.” Funke said; thinking of how best to explain to her daughter without hurting her feelings. “Akin’s father loves you like his own so it is not possible that he would hurt you intentionally. It’s just that he wants Akin to continue his education abroad so that when he returns to the country, he has better prospects of getting an excellent job.”

“But won’t he get a good job here if he studies in the country?” Shalewa asked trying to figure out what her mother was saying. All she wanted was for her mother to tell Akin’s father not to send his son abroad.

“Omoshalewa…” Funke stressed. “Akin’s parents have made a decision for their only child, who am I to question it?”

“Mum…I…I…” She burst out in uncontrollable tears before she could tell her mum she loved him. Did they realize what they were doing to her? They were tearing her heart apart. She knew she liked Akin a lot but right now she realized she didn’t just like him. She loved him with every piece of her heart.

Shalewa wasn’t the only one having a difficult time; Akin was as well. However, he refused to discuss anything with his parents. They had told him their decision was final so there was no point flogging the issue. He wondered what Shalewa must be going through. He knew she wasn’t strong enough to handle the emotional trauma. He wished he could change the situation but there was nothing he could do. Tomorrow, he would leave the country for the United States.

********

As Shalewa stepped out of the shower, she said, “It’s been 15 years, Akin and I still haven’t found someone to replace the love I had for you.” She sighed as she took out a gown from her closet, wore it and went downstairs to meet her mum.

“Our guest would be coming in at 1.00p.m. I have everything all set for an early lunch. Your dad is in the study as usual.” Funke said looking up from the fashion magazine she was flipping through.

Shalewa looked towards the dining table and gasped. “Mum, who is this guest we are expecting? I can see your finest dishes all set on the table.”

“A very important guest.” She answered without looking up from the magazine.

“He or she must have a name, right? So will you tell me who this person is?” She asked flopping on the couch beside her mum.

“Omoshalewa, you don’t flop on a couch. You take a seat like a lady.” Funke scolded as she dropped the magazine on the side stool next to her.

“Mum…..” Shalewa started to say but Funke raised her hand as if to warn her daughter.

“Okay, I’m sorry.” She said sitting up.

“It is meant to be a surprise but I’ll tell you as long as you don’t squeal to your dad.”

Shalewa put her fingers to her lips making a zipped sign. She had learnt over the years to trust her mum with any issue. Her mum was her confidant and they had stayed close for years sharing secrets and emotional upheavals.

“Do you remember Tunde Williams, the first son of Mr. Williams, your father’s old time friend?”

Shalewa thought for a while. “Tunde Williams? The name rings a bell but I don’t think I remember.”

“I’m sure you would when you meet him. He arrived from South Africa two weeks ago after he lost his father. A business deal took him to your dad’s office and your dad was delighted to see him again after so many years.”

“Hmm…and now he’s coming over for lunch with dad?” Shalewa asked looking disinterested as she picked up the magazine her mum had initially dropped on the side stool.

“No, darling. He’s coming to have lunch with you; well, with us all.”

“With me?” Shalewa questioned as she dropped the magazine. “I don’t even think I remember who this Tunde guy is; so why would he want to have lunch with me?”

“I think he likes you.” Her mum said smiling and pulling her cheeks.

“Mum!” Shalewa looked at her mother curiously. “How can he like me when he hasn’t even met me?”

“Who says he hasn’t met you. He and his dad visited our home regularly years ago. He asked after you from your dad and he was invited to come over for lunch.”

“On my behalf when….” The chime from the doorbell broke their conversation.

Funke checked her watch and gasped. “It’s 1.00pm already. Wow, just right on time. He must be the one at the door. Could you get the door, darling while I go in to inform your dad? And remember to be at your best behaviour.” She said smiling and winking at her daughter.

“Yes, mum.” Shalewa said as she stood up and straightened her gown. Whoever this guy was, must have made an impression on her parents. The name did ring a bell but she couldn’t remember who he was. Her parents were obviously trying to match-make her from all indications. With the amount of broken relationships in her kitty, it did not come as a surprise to her.

Would he end up as all the others? Well, she was going to find out.

——-

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

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New Book Alert: Read To Love And To Hold by Olubukola Adekusibe @olubukolasthots — MakeADream_NG

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To Love And To Hold by Olubukola Adekusibe is now selling at okadabooks.com. A synopsis of the Novel: Fadeke and Chinedu are shocked when they come across each other in the elevator of a building they both work in. Chinedu has searched for her the past six years while Fadeke is hurt by an incident that […]

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