Chapter Two

Laide Temidayo Fayola was my 16-year old younger sister. She was in SS2 and was usually quiet but with a good sense of humour when she wasn't nose-deep in a book or off in her little world of science.

"Well, surprise!" She said with weak enthusiasm.

I just looked at her and let my eyes do the talking.

"At least I used the spare key you gave me this time." She waved it in the air.

I sighed and rubbed my forehead.

Her previous visits were made possible by picking the locks. Where she learnt the skill, I had no idea. I didn’t want her to be mistaken for a thief by my neighbours so I gave her a spare key. Besides, she was at my place more often these days than back at our parents’ house anyway.

I looked at her with narrowed eyes. Ever since we were little, I had always been able to tell when Laide was keeping something from me. I raised a single eyebrow as I waited.

"Alright," she sighed. "I left because they've started their fights again."

Immediately, I understood.

Since we were little, our parents would constantly argue. One day could be worse than the other with doors slammed shut, tears shed or broken household items. Sometimes, it was only about minor issues but within those few days of nagging and arguments, the house became unbearable to live in. Over the years, Laide and I were able to create various means of blocking out their arguments. We lived in the bustling city of Lagos and it was a miracle when I got my place in Surulere. It became a haven for both of us. I decided to get accommodation that was only a couple of hours away from home because I didn't want to be too far from my little sister. She still needed me.

"Do they know you're here?" I asked.

"I highly doubt they even notice my existence let alone my absence," Laide replied as she made herself comfortable on the sofa again.

I smiled sadly and pulled her off the sofa while she grumbled in protest.

"Have you eaten?" I asked.

"Well, if the two slices of bread I had in the morning count as substantial food, then yes."

I stared at her in shock.

"That is all you have eaten all day?"

She shrugged.

"Mom was too busy accusing dad of wasting money on frivolous things, to go to the market this morning and when I got back from school, there was no food at home and we both know that I am constantly broke, so broke it has nearly become an occupation."

"Come on," I chuckled as I led her into the kitchen. "You need to eat. Then you'll have a shower before, oh, wait did you bring extra clothes?"

"Yeah I brought some clothes," she said as she pointed to a small bag in the corner of the room. "Along with two pairs of my school uniform."

It seemed she planned to stay for more than just the weekend. When she was well-fed and fast asleep, I remembered my plans with my comfy bed for the evening and finally changed out of my clothes, showered and collapsed unto the bed in a tired heap after I said my night prayers.

Laide was in the guest room which was the only other bedroom. I thought the little house was just perfect when I first found it and very affordable too. I had a cosy living room and an improvised dining area, a small kitchen, one bathroom and my bedroom.

There was a tiny yard where the soil was fertile, so I turned it into a miniature garden where I planted some vegetables like ugu, lettuce and waterleaf for quick, easy access. Plus, it was a good way to save some money. Just as I closed my eyes, my phone rang.

Terrible timing!

"Hello maami, good evening." I yawned sleepily, although I should have expected the call. Despite what Laide thought, our parents would notice that she wasn't home.

"Eniola, sorry if I woke you up, dear. How are you, I hope Laide is with you?"

I softened at the concern that was evident in her voice.

"Yes she is, don't worry. But she says you and dad have started arguing again. What is it about now?"

At the age of 23, I was already tired of playing the peacemaker during my parents’ frequent disagreements.

"Eniola," she sighed. "This time it seems beyond me. If Laide doesn't want to come home quickly, I understand. Just tell her that I'm missing her and well, I-"

"It's okay, I'll let her know.”

"Alright dear, have a good night."

I knew my parents loved us both, despite being so caught up in their problems almost all the time but Laide needed to be convinced of this fact. They did their best to support us. It was even more difficult to support me when I was pursuing my business degree at the University of Lagos.

We weren't wealthy but we did not lack and we lived within our financial capabilities. My mom was a trader, while dad was a civil servant. Asides from his job, he also had a small business where he sold furniture. He was a carpenter back in his younger days but still retained the skill.