Maybe, You Will See Me Now

06

Pidgin words translation

Oga - senior, boss or generally a word used to call on someone, usually a man that might be older

You think say I dey play? - Do you think I'm joking?

My friend make una comot for road! - Look here, you people should get out of the road

Ijeawele slammed the car's door shut. For a moment, she stood still, trying to control her emotions and remind herself to keep her true feelings in check. She realised she hasn't been able to stand one on one with Maria since the incident with her ex-husband broke out. At the time, she didn't feel the need to confront her or rather didn't see what difference it would make. Kingsley, her husband at that time had made his decision and her acting like an insane woman in front of Maria wouldn't have changed anything.

The last thing Ijeawele had was her dignity and she was determined to keep it. But over time, Ijeawele could feel a knot growing in her chest, so much that it now feels like a heavy boulder weighing on her. Every good news from them made her furious. While they moved forward with their lives, she never stopped feeling like she was still in the same place. Maybe it would have helped if she had pulled out Maria's hair when she could or done something horrendous to either of them. But that ship has sailed and Ijeawele has reminded herself time and time again to maintain her calm.

She sucked in a deep breath and started her steps forward towards the entrance into the salon. The second she stepped in; Maria's laughter filled her ears and she looked directly at her. The young woman stood on her feet while braiding a customer's hair.

"Welcome ma..." Maria's words trailed away once she set her eyes on Ijeawele. Her smile gradually disappeared and surprise was obvious on her face.

Ijeawele glanced around, unable to stop herself from noticing the interior décor. In the past, Maria wasn't fortunate enough to own a salon of her own. The room was spacious enough. The painting on the wall was clean and smooth. The furniture was new and modern. A working ceiling fan and two standing fans were present. Two young ladies wore the same T-shirt with the salon's name imprinted in the front. One was busy with another customer and the other stood to the side watching. They were clearly her employees. Mentally, she scoffed. She knew Maria's life would change after getting married to her ex but seeing the credibility of that change was even more amazing.

"Felicia, come and finish up the tips." Maria said and one of the employees hurried to where she was. "Madam, excuse me for a moment." She added, just as she placed a hand on the woman's shoulder. The woman nodded.

Ijeawele walked forward away from the entrance while Maria came in her direction. Both stopped when they were in front of each other.

"Are you lost?" Maria asked, her expression unapproving of Ijeawele's presence to begin with.

It's fine. Just get it over with. A voice in Ijeawele's head echoed.

Like always, she wore her best I'm fine and beyond you expression on her face as she leveled her gaze with Maria's.

"My older brother has the wrong understanding about last Sunday. Apparently, everyone including you has the same understanding."

Maria's face and gaze wore a confused mixture with disgust for an expression. "I don't understand what you're trying to say. Yes, last Sunday was my baby boy's dedication. You were there and we didn't want you there."

"It's a church. Neither of you has the right to say who can come and go."

"Ehn yes, we can't but that day was ours. My family's celebration. You intentionally showed up that day to make us feel bad."