Chapter Three

I had just put the phone away when it rang again, it was dad who called the next time. Another thing about my parents was that instead of them to do something together, they preferred to do it separately, especially when they were in fight mode. This caused a lot of repetition and general annoyance. After repeating the same thing to him about Laide being fine and we were both alright, I finally put my phone down and tried to get some sleep. I growled in frustration when it rang again. But this time, a glance at the caller ID made me switch it off.

The next morning, I stirred awake and rolled over in bed. With a wide yawn, I stumbled to my feet and went into the bathroom. I splashed some water on my face and brushed my teeth before I went to check on Laide. I found her awake so I called her to the living room for morning prayers, it was something our parents had taught us when we were much younger. We were Christians and had practically grown up in the church.

"So, what are your plans for the weekend?" I asked as we sat down to a breakfast of boiled yam and fried eggs later in the morning. I boiled the yam while she fried the eggs.

"Nothing special, I’ve just got a truckload of homework to do." She shrugged.

"Alright, when you're through you can come with me today to see mom and dad. They're worried about you, you know."

I watched her expression carefully as I said this. I didn't miss the way her eyebrows furrowed together and the slight roll of her eyes, as if she had already dismissed the whole idea.

"Laide, how many times have we talked about this?" I sighed.

“More times than I can count,” she said.

"You're going home and that's final," I stated firmly.

"But I want to stay with you." Laide crossed her arms and leaned back into the chair.

I sighed and set my cutlery down on the plate.

"Listen, your school is farther from my house than our parents’ house. You’re always welcome here but I don’t want this to get in the way of your academics. Besides, I have spoken to them and I am sure home will be peaceful… at least for this week."

"I'm only going because of you." She frowned.

“It's a good thing you know me well enough to understand that there is no point arguing.”

Her bottom lip jutted out sulkily but she didn’t argue any further.

Laide went back to our parents’ house. I gave her enough pocket money to last for at least two weeks. I had just gotten myself a cold glass of water after walking about in the hot afternoon sun when the doorbell rang. My bare feet padded silently against the tiled floor as I went to check who it was. I glanced through the peephole and hissed. 

"Eni, please open the door!" It was Akin.

I contemplated for a moment before I opened the door reluctantly.

"What?" I asked as I leaned against the doorpost to prevent him from coming in. I couldn’t let him think that he was welcome in my home anymore.

"You weren't answering any of my calls then later your phone was switched off. I was worried and I didn't know if you had gotten home safely," Akin said in rush.

Hm, he truly seemed worried. Too bad he was a cheat.

"Well, as you can see, I'm fine, thank you. Goodbye." I moved to slam the door but he put his foot against it and held it in place.

"Eni,” he said desperately. “Please let me explain what happened. It's not what you think. Well, not exactly what you think."

"Tell that to someone who cares." I kicked his foot out of the way, slammed the door in his face and locked it while I ignored his pleas. He had to leave if he didn't want to draw the attention of the neighbours.

On Sunday, I came back from church to find a parcel at my front door. I slowly picked it up and glanced around. The postman must have delivered it. I was yet to install a mailbox, so I was used to his method of delivery. 

I walked in and set the parcel down on the coffee table before I changed out of my outfit into something more comfortable to lounge in. I opened the package to find a white envelope and a brochure. My heart suddenly skipped a beat.

Could it be...?

I opened the envelope and read the letter. Halfway through, I screamed and jumped up and down on my already battered sofa.

I got the job. Oh my days, I actually got it!

I collapsed onto the sofa with a crazy grin, giddy with excitement. But then, my euphoria slowly faded. Akin had said that we would celebrate together when I got the job offer. I was so insecure when I applied and even after the interview but he supported me all the way and reassured me that there was no doubt I would get the job.

I sighed and let my gaze wander to the ceiling where I noticed a large water stain. Hm, that had to be fixed soon. I hated to admit it but I wished that I could share the good news with him.