The Final Year (vol 1)

Family

The car ride was interesting. It was filled with interesting stories both from Tomi and Pa Sammy, when we encountered some traffic, Pa Sammy sang to some of his old school songs played on the radio.

We laughed at his hoarse voice in contrast to the singer smooth voice. He told us those songs were the songs of their time but they were meaningful unlike the 'trash' like he puts it that are being sang by our generation.

Soon after we got to Surulere, following the address Tomi gave us. The car stopped in front of a gate guiding a two story building. It was built in flats.

"I guess this is it... " i nodded feeling sad she was leaving, she stares at me for a while before speaking "do you want to come in? I can introduce you to my mum"

I nodded looking excited, if i go home now, i will only meet our workers, sure i miss them but i want to know what it feels like to be out of my element.

I turn to look at Pa Sammy.

"No worry... I no go anywhere today" I nod mumbling a thank you. He presses a button as the booth opens, we both got out as she fetches her bag.

We opened the gate talking excitedly as he waits in that car as i tell him i won't be long.

We stopped in front of a flat which i guess was theirs, before she could raise her hand to knock, the door flew open as a smiling woman engulfs her in a warm hug.

"Omo mii ti de o" Tomi laughed at her words as her eyes twinkled with excitement.

I stand awkwardly watching mother and daughter's exchange. I look around, they have a small compound with two cars packed inside, maybe it belonged to their neighbors.

"Where is Femi?" She looks around and for the first time she noticed me. Her eyes furrowed in confusion.

"He has gone home...He sent his regards. Meet my room mate and friend... Teniola Coker" I quickly curtsied as her eyes widen in shock.

"Oh! How are you?" She quickly ushered me to stand up she invited us in.

Now i know where she got her beauty from. She was the exact replica of her mother.

I sat down on one of the sofa in the warm living room looking around. Family pictures hanging at strategic places. The living room  may be small but its beautiful.

"What will you like to take?" Mrs Bello asked.

"Water is fine ma" she shakes her head as Tomi frowned but went ahead to bring the water anyway.

"Why? Are you shy?" I laughed at her question.

"Not at all ma, Tomi knows am in a hurry and besides we ate in school before coming" she nods as Tomi returns with a bottled water and a glass cup.

"Ore e... Omo oyinbo nii?" Tomi gave her mother a look to shut up but i beat her to it.

"Rara ma... Sugbon mo tan mo won" she gasp as i speak her native language, clapping her hands hysterically as Tomi and I laughed at her shocked state.

People are always surprised whenever i speak the Yoruba language due to my appearance. Thank my mother for that, she makes sure she speaks the native language to her children from time to time and trust me it has come in handy.

"Ehn en... Omo ilu wo ni e?" She asked again.

"Omo ilu Eko yii ni mii, ma"

"Ehn... That is good. Welcome again my dear"

We talked for a while, i find Mrs Bello interesting, she is so outspoken in contrast to her daughter.

Tomi told me about her father, he passed away years back. Her mother has been the one struggling and providing for her and her two siblings. She is a trader.