Against The Tide

Chapter 9

True to his word, Nicholas travelled with Sarah to Lagos and personally
brought her to her aunt’s. His mother had been on his neck with calls, wanting to
know when he will be home. Jed was home already and so was Tabitha and even
though there are still issues in the house, it has become a little condusive for
everyone. Even Kike, their mum was already speaking though sparingly, to her
husband. Still it is better than the deafening silence initially between them. Nick was
very happy when Jed informed him the last time they spoke on phone. He could
barely wait to get home and see things for himself. He had volunteered to take Sarah
home so as the cab they chartered entered the gate to Lekki phase II, he looked at
the numbering of the houses till they got to their destination and got out from the
car. The environment is more serene and privileged than where he stays at
Surulere. He collected the bag from the driver while Sarah rang the bell at the gate
and simultaneously called her mother on her mobile. As they wait for response at
the gate, he quickly glance at his watch, it was 2pm already. He had to leave early if
he wants to beat the traffic. Traffic in Lagos is so unpredictable; it could be so heavy
and tiring. Luckily for him, the gate was opened by the gateman and halfway into the
house Mrs Adams came out to welcome her daughter.
Mother and daughter hugged while Nick took the time to appreciate the
beautiful house. It was a green mansion with touch of cream here and there, the
terrace was nicely done with flowers and the entire setting of the house and the arc
designs, Nick concluded to be breathtaking. The green and cream colour made
emphasise that its owner is very tasteful. Sarah had given him brief details of the
family she’s staying with. He got to know her aunt is very successful in her business,
travelling across the world, although she has been separated from her husband for
over seven years now. It was after they separated that she bought the house.
Surprisingly, she and her husband manage to be friends even after the separation,
probably because of the children, Nick thought. And the children; Bankole,
Toluwalase and Anuoluwa are presently at home with their mum for vacation. Sade
came over to greet Nick, Peju, their aunt and her children came trooping in just then to greet Sarah, she thanked him for keeping his promise to bring her daughter
home. Sade didn’t like to imagine her daughter coming to Lagos alone and finding
her way around in the big city. She was truly grateful Nick waited in school with her
and brought her home. They walked on into the house with Peju and the gateman
carrying the luggage while Nick held on to his backpack, the only item he travelled
with. As they settle down in the living room, he was offered juice which he declined
for a glass of water. He took this as he admires the interior décor of the room. It was
exquisitely done; not too loud but chic, very attractive in a subtle style.
He quickly drained the last drop from his glass and excused himself using the
traffic as the reason but he promised to come again to check on them. They all
thanked him very well and Sarah’s aunt in her kindness asked her driver to drop
Nick at home. Nick refused profusely but in the end, he gave in and thanked her for
the kind gesture. They all waved at him as the jeep pull out of the compound, he felt
nostalgic about leaving Sarah so he signal to her that he will call her and the latter
nodded, already missing her friend. Immediately Nick left, her family pounced on
her, asking a lot of question at the same time; Sade and Aunt Toke asked after her
exams while Peju, Anu, Tolu and Bankole also extend their congratulation on the
already passed exam but their main interest was on the ‘Knight with the shining
armour’ who brought her home. She giggled all through as her mind ease off from
stress and trouble in school. When they won’t let her be on Nick’s matter, she ran
from the living claiming she needed to bath desperately. Peju and Anu tail after her
up to the bedroom while Bankole and Tolu stayed behind. Bankole is the first born
and the first son who recently finished with Business Administration in the University
at the young age of twenty, Tolu followed with four years gap between him and his
brother, he is in first year in the University while Anu the last born is the same age
with Peju in her senior class in secondary school too. The five of them altogether are
close and comfortable with one another.
Sarah came back down in half an hour and joined the others that were already
at the dining table. The food served was porridge and vegetables, there was juice
served along with water and the cook did make sure to put fresh fruits in a crystal
bowl and had it place strategically at the centre of the table. Slight conversation
rolled on as they ate, the talk went from work, business, academics, friends, and little on politics. After the late lunch they moved on to the sitting room with Bankole
taking the bowl of fruit ignoring the scowl his mother gave him. The youngster only
smiled and continued in his mischievous act. They talked about how to spend the
oncoming holiday, there is still two to three weeks left to the vacation. Anu and Peju
wants to go to the beach, Tolu wants to go to the movies and strangely Bankole liked
the movie idea too, only he wants his girlfriend to come along with them. But when
his sibling shouted ‘No’ he tease them to go board the public bus. They all laughed
because they want to ride in his new car. It was his gift for graduating with a Second
Class honour Upper Division. Sarah was indifferent about where to go when asked
instead she said she will go along with any plan they make. Sarah was just happy she
passed her exam finally. Her mother already told her they would go medical
shopping together on the last weekend to buy her stethoscope, sphygmomanometer
and the other things she will be needing for her clinical year. She had dread having
to repeat or sent out of medical school, the whole experience had made her draw
closer to God. It has helped her build her faith and her prayer life. It’s funny how
tragedy brings people close to their Maker. Still in her thought, she is ever thankful
to God for the friendship she had with Nick, it really helped her. He was God-sent to
her, he was like a hand God used in catching her from falling and holding on at the
time she wanted to let go even till the very end when he brought the good news to
her hostel. She smiled, as her phone ranged sending her back to reality. ‘Who’s
calling’ Peju teased. Sarah looked at her phone, saw the caller and pick up
immediately “I was just thinking of you now” she said smiling as the other kids
laughed and she left for the garden to avoid their tease and receive her call in
peace.
“How are you, Nick? Hope you are not too tired? And how is everyone at home?”
Sarah asked
“They are all fine, thanks. Please do thank your mum and your aunt for me, for the
smooth ride home” he said it so sweetly that Sarah smiled missing him more and his
ways especially when he receives calls in her presence, teasing and scoping the
ladies he was trying to avoid.
“You have started again. You eh? Bimpe is not here so talk very well”“Is the sound of my voice getting to you?” he teased.
“You are not serious. But really, thanks. Thanks for staying with me in school and for
bringing me here, I’m sincerely grateful”
“You are welcome. And please stop sounding like you want to send me off.” Sarah
laughed at what he said. “What do you want to do while you are in Lagos?”
“Well I don’t have anything in mind, the boys wants to go to the movies and the girls
want to go to the beach” Sarah was reporting back to Nick when Anu came out to
where she was and told her of their final decision, they will be going to the cinemas
tomorrow, as it happen to be a Saturday. “Ha ah! They have reached a conclusion
and chose cinemas. I’m very sure it is because, Bankole will be driving.” Sarah said
“Sounds interesting, for you peeps. Have you learnt how to drive, Sarah?”
“No, not yet” Sarah replied, wondering why he asked. “Why do you ask?”
“I want to teach you if you don’t mind. There is a small old car in the house, it’s a
manual transmission, which is the best to learn with” Sarah just listen to him as he
talked on, he is always so good to her. It sometimes scares her but at other times like
now she is fascinated and can’t wait. “I will have to ask for permission first. I only
thought of it now, then I have to check my wallet to know if I can afford to buy fuel, so
don’t get too excited” he teased her
“I’m excited already, Nicholas Durojaiye!” she was grinning “but I’ll have to ask
mom for permission.”
“I can speak to her if you want me to. Once we have permission from both ends we
can start practise on Monday.”
“Thank you” Sarah said feeling loved and cared for “why are you doing this, Nick?”
she needed to ask
“Because I need to run away from home and from some girls whose expenses are far
more than what I’ll be spending on your driving class”, “plus the fact that you are
cheaper to please” they both laughed at what he said. Nick wanted to spend as
much time as he can get with her and the driving lesson seems like the best excuse.“Thank you” Sarah said feeling gratefully
“You are welcome but know that you will be making provision for food and drinks I
will need while teaching you.”
“No problem”
“Feeding me will not be that easy o, because teaching you and getting you to drive
well I know will require a lot of effort and patience from my end”
“Oh ,Oh, shut up”
“Take care, dear”
“You too” she hung up. Peju draw the curtain from the window where she was hiding
all along and shout at Sarah, mimicking her ‘you too’
“You this brat!” Sarah ran in to meet her.
The following day they went to the cinema, they argued on the movies to see.
Eventually they settle for a Nigerian drama that was recently premiered. Their
mothers had a function to attend that morning; one of their distant cousins was
getting married and the children were not interested in making appearance but as
the elders of the family their mothers represented the family instead. They were all
on casuals, the boys wore T-shirt on jeans and the girls wore something similar
although Sarah was on a three-quarter trouser with a round neck. They all look cute
and happy. True to his threat, Bankole picked up his girlfriend on their way to the
movies. The girl was not someone Sarah would have ordinarily approved of but
since her cousin didn’t ask for her opinion, she only kept up the appearance to
tolerate her. All through the ride, the girl was sassy and talked nonstop. They had
eventually taken the Toyota 4Runner jeep instead of Bankole’s car but he did drive
them. Initially Sarah was the only one who noticed her attitude, she thought maybe
the girl saw her as a threat and not as one of the cousin but the other three had the
same impression that she was trying to show an attitude problem and she started to
overdo it by trying to give the impression of true upper class. Tolu complained that
her clothes were of inferior quality and when Sarah scolded him he explained he wouldn’t have commented if she hadn’t turn into actress by faking what she’s not.
Sarah couldn’t resist but smile knowingly, Tolu was absolutely right. It makes her
wonder why some girls act that way ‘I mean why not be yourself, anyone who can’t
accept you should screw off’ she thought, then quickly caught off the haughty words
in her thought. They hanged around the cinema waiting for their movie to begin as
they fed on popcorn and juice, making idle chatters.
Eventually they filed into the theatre as the movie was about start with their
popcorn, Sarah sat between Peju and Tolu, and Anu sat next to Peju while Bankole
sat on the next row behind them with his girlfriend. The movie was a Yoruba native
movie titled ‘Ibeere nla (The Big Question)’, the artist featured were highly
respected for their past work and records and so was the producer and that was why
they chose the movie. The movie was so full of suspense for them all, to the extent
that Sarah was unwilling to step out to receive her call when the call came in. The
reason why she stood up was because it was Jed that was on the line. Their
conversations have become infrequent but still they are good friends and manage to
joke and flow well when they converse. Like now he asked about her trip from
school, he asked if his brother was well behaved and she laughed in answer. She
asked of his stay at home and what he has been up to, which he told her was
practically nothing. She told him she was at the Cinema though she came in
yesterday but she seems to have her vacation treat in motion unlike him. This only
made Jed laugh, then he feign jealousy and he made a suggestion “How about you
come with me to the beach?” he asked casually
“Well…that sounds good” she was hesitant. For one unfathomed reason she didn’t
want to go alone out of respect for Nick. She didn’t know why she felt that way, it
wasn’t like they were in some kind of relationship but she finds herself considering
him in every one of her plans even for the movie they came to watch, she almost
invite him. “How about we make it a big outing? I’ll bring Peju and my cousins with
me then you can come with your sibling. I would like to see Tabby, it’s been long”
she didn’t dare to mention Nick
“Will next Friday, be okay with you guys?”“Sounds perfect” Sarah said, relieved that he didn’t push it. They talk some more, he
told her of his desire to write a book to which she said she’s already looking forward
to read. Thereafter, they hung up and she went back in, to watch the movie.
The weekend passed smoothly and the house was loud and noisy with
laughter and screams from pranks. Sarah was so relaxed and happy with her
cousins, they were like a bunch of carefree teenagers to her; so hilarious,
argumentative, playful and importantly the boys love food and eat a lot of it. They
were shouting about something when her mother called her attention to the phone.
It was a chat message from Nick reminding her he was coming to pick her by 1pm.
She was startled as she read it, she hasn’t even remembered to ask her mum’s
permission and she is with her aunt now, both women are talking as they watch the
TV. She approached her mum, hesitant yet praying and hoping she gives her
consent. “Mum, I want to ask you something, and you too ma” she started deciding
to ask them both since she was staying at her aunt’s house. She told them what Nick
was offering and her wish to learn to drive and luckily for her they gave their
consent. They did frown at first but her mum already hold Nick in high esteem and is
willing to leave her in his care but what pose to be problem initially was the
suggestion from her aunt that Bankole should teach her and she quickly replied that
her cousin has no patience to teach her and she would be better off with her friend.
Nick came precisely 1’0’clock, greeted everyone and they head out to start
the class. Nick was the perfect gentleman as he asked her aunt if there is a nearby
field where they could start the training so she could be close within their
neighbourhood. And they did give him a description of a place which they found to
be very suitable. Nick drove her to the field, park the car and begin to explain the
nitty-gritty of car generally to her. He started from the inside; the gear system, the
brake, clutch pedal, accelerator, the trafficator lights, wipers, horn, fuel gage and
speedometer, the functions of the mirrors both sides and the one for the rear. He
taught her the importance of seat belt to keep her in position and save her from
hitting her head in case of accident or when she needs to apply the break suddenly.
From there he asked her to come out and he showed her how to check the tyres to see if they need to be gauged, then they move on to the bonnet and he point out to
her, the battery, the radiator, oil gauge, and he showed her how to check if the car
needs water and oil. It was all so intriguing for Sarah and Nick made it so simple for
her. She admire his gentleness and patience and for a moment she wonder if that is
how he got a lot of girls fall head over heels in-love with him. He closed the bonnet
after they have checked the water and oil, then got into the car again where he gave
her instruction on driving itself.
“So when you want to start a car, you check if your gear is in neutral, if it is you can
turn the ignition on, if not you clutch down like this” he demonstrated while Sarah
stretch from where she sat to see the pedal he was stepping on “and return the gear
to its neutral position and start the car.” He looked at her for sign that she
understood and she gave a nod. “Okay lets change position so you can try that. She
got out of the car and took position behind the wheel while Nick traded sit with her.
She turned the ignition key without checking the gear and he scolded her for it. The
lesson went on for like two hours. By then she was already moving the car, turning in
circle because she could not do the reverse yet, Nick wants to teach her the next
day. She was a pretty fast learner.
When it was 4’O clock, they wrap it up for the day though she didn’t want to at
first but she knew he had to get home and with traffic he better get going. He
dropped her at home first and he was forced to stay for a quick bite after he had
spent the entire afternoon teaching their daughter. Sarah shouted for Bankole
immediately they entered and bragged to him about driving better than him and
even offer to drive him to Disneyland. Everyone laughed at her declaration knowing
she was so excited. Nick left her with the promise to return the next day to continue
their lesson. He was happy to have spent the day with her. They managed to chitchat
during the lesson, on their way to the field and back home which sooth him well
enough plus the sheer pride mixed with joy that he is teaching her how to drive.
When he eventually got home that evening, he was still in his good mood and to add
to his good fortune, his mother made the dinner and everyone including the dad ate
happily. They made light discussion about work and the children took turns to tell
tales from school. Everyone wanted to keep the family conversation going each time
they have the opportunity which has become rare with the Durojaiyes’. They at all cost avoid talking about the baby their dad had outside wedlock, it’s obvious the
scar is still raw.
For Sarah Adams, the holiday came in total package for her with her morning
spent chasing either her sister or her cousins around, her afternoon spent with Nick
driving round field and in the ‘not too busy’ streets, and for most of her evening her
aunt and mum take them all out to nice places to dine and have a taste of different
dish; Italian, French, Chinese etc. it was all so consuming and overwhelming for
Sarah. but she did welcome them knowing she would soon be very busy with school
once she starts her clinical year and have little or no vacation again. For the past
four days Nick has been coming around, they did spend two to three hours per day
on the driving lesson. She has learnt so well; she could reverse, change the gears
while moving without looking at down at the gear, she trafficates well too. Nick even
allowed her on the third day to drive within their street and taught her how to park
the car for a stopover. She was incredible with the way she learns, maybe that is one
of the reasons she is exceptional in her studies, Nick had thought. It was Thursday
and they just finished their lesson when Nick suggests they branched at a mini mart
to get snacks and drinks. They bought the snacks and got back into the Volvo and
ate in the car while they make conversation.
“Yummy…I love it when they add jam to doughnut” Sarah declared as she bites into
her doughnut, wearing a dreamy face.
“The face you just made is heavenly…” Nick replied and used his tissue to wipe the
corner of her mouth where she had pieces of the dough.
“C’mon, don’t be a pervert” she scolded but she was pleased by his comment
“heavenly things has to be …” she search for words “held in high esteem. I mean,
respected. I don’t know.”
“Hmmm… Sister Sarah of God! Your bible study is not complete even you should
know that you are a priceless jewel in the heavenly world, you are a ‘holy nation’, a
‘priest’, you are even rated far above some heavenly bodies, the angels”
“I’m impressed, Pastor Nick” she winked at him“Oh stop that jor. You are really good at learning, you know?” he praised her but
she only nodded. “We’ll have our final lesson tomorrow then you can practise more
as you drive. You can’t learn everything, there is still more you will discover
yourself with time.
“Wow! So I can drive on my own now. Please tell my mother o and Bankole too” she
grinned
“Wait please. I said after we round up the training tomorrow depending on your
performance. I’ll like to see you drive on the main road but you will need a permit.
Did your aunt later get you the Learner’s permit?”
“Yea, she did.”
“Good. You should have it even before you start the training, we are only lucky we
haven’t meet any road safety officials, yet.
“Yes sir.” She salute him in mockery
“I’m going to miss you, you know?” he said staring at her intently but she didn’t
have a clue of what he was saying, so he explained “I’ll be busy with my seminar
and project, it’s my final year remember?”
“Oh yeah…” Sarah said feeling sadness wash over her at the thought that she may
not see him like before. “Will you be that busy that I won’t get to see you?” she
asked in spite of herself.
“Yes, not as often as we normally see.” He was glad she was going to miss him too.
He had thought he was going to do the missing alone. “You will be starting your
clinical year also. You will be at the hospital most of the time and this will be the time
you will be adjusting to that system.” He explained to her. Nick is the type that likes
to plan ahead of time. He would very much hate it for them to return to school and
allow the winds of academic life to blow them away with what they had.
“You are right but I can still come see you during the weekend when am free. We
can still work something out” she looked away because she was near tears. He was
her only true friend and ally in school and she just didn’t want to lose him“I’ll come see you too. Now don’t cry, I only want us to talk about it. Come here,
dear” he pulled her to him from where she sat in the passenger’s seat next to him.
He only wanted to hug her to reassure her at first. They held on to each other like
their life depended on it, like it will make everything right. She whimpers as she
held on to him, breathing unevenly while Nick stroked her hair to soothe her. Then
he raise her head from his chest to see her eyes, they were red from emotional tears
so he wipe the tears that were gathering already, with his palm “Moi Cherie, we’ll
be fine. I won’t let us drift away just like that. You have become a part of me, you are
so important to me, you can’t even begin to imagine how much” he declared and it
made Sarah search his eyes, to understand what he was saying but she only
succeeded in looking so innocent and so beautiful that Nick lean and kissed her full
in the mouth with every of the feelings he’s been concealing. He had liked her since
he met her but he always sense she’s the type with ‘string attach’ so he had kept his
distance plus the fact that she was Jed’s close friend but since the night he had
rescued her from that rapist he had felt drawn to her. And though he told himself
several times he was only worried and concerned about her but now he knows
better. What he feared has happened, he was in love with Sarah Adams. Without
even knowing he had withdrawn from the playboy club and spends time only with
one girl, Sarah. His feelings became obvious when he started to get nervous when
she talks to Jed, he knew in his heart he can’t let her go with anyone not even his
own brother still he was afraid of telling her what he feels. Now that they were both
caught up in the moment he wanted her to see everything he feels for her.
Hearing Nick talk about what the future hold out for them made her desperate
and want to hold on to him but nothing prepared her for such a passionate kiss. She
did suspect he had feelings for her but given his reputation with ladies she thought
her own feelings were clouding her judgement. It made her feel so happy and
excited to be held by him and when he kissed her, she felt light-headed with
butterflies in her tummy as she kissed him back with a matching vigour. Then
something spun her to reality like a nerve twitch, she pulled back but remained in
his arm because he held her captive.
“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that” she starts to say, taking all the blame.“Sorry for what?” he sounded wounded and confused. He could have sworn that she
wasn’t seeing anyone except for Jed and she said they were friend so he didn’t
understand why she was sorry. “I love you, Sarah. I love you with all my being. I
didn’t plan it but I do.” He looked at her pleadingly but she withdrew from his
embrace and sat back in her chair, drew her long leg up and leaned on it. She didn’t
dare to look at him because she knew she might lose herself to him again just like
she did a while ago. “Please, talk to me, Sarah” he pleaded turning away from her to
stare straight at the road. “Is there someone else? Because just few minutes ago I
could have sworn you feel the same way.”
“There is no one, Nick but I don’t or should I say can’t afford someone toying with
my emotions. I’m not strong in that area.” She said and looked away.
“C’mon, for Christ’s sake! If no one else knows me, you should know me better by
now. I’m no longer the player” he begged “Sarah, I love you, I love only you. Please
believe me”
“Oh Nick!” she turn towards him and touched his face “I so much want to but…”
“But nothing, sweetheart, I will be faithful to you. Please, give me a chance to be
with you. I will take care of your heart, our love.” He made to kiss her again but she
held him away from her.
“Nick, I care for you too. I do love you in some ways but we can’t be. I made a
promise and I intend to keep it. That day I almost got violated, I was so thankful to
God and I promised God if I would be with someone he approves of that I will
remain untouched till my wedding day” she said it so quietly that Nick swallowed as
he try to digest what he just heard.
“In other words, no pre marital sex is what you are saying?” he asked feeling
nervous, he had never had such a relationship before but with Sarah he thinks he
could survive it and still be happy.
“Yes and…”
“And what?” he asked, now nervous.“No kissing till ‘you may now kiss the bride’” she answered and that made him
laughed
“But you just kissed me?” he raise an eyebrow
“Yes and it goes to say I have my weak point. You see, I need a believer with similar
view so that when am weak, he would be strong for me. Someone whose heart is
after God’s own very heart.” She explained.
“Seriously?” he asked, bewildered at what he was hearing.
“Seriously” she replied crisply.
“Let me drive you home, we’ll talk more tomorrow” he said
“We won’t be able to train tomorrow”
“Why? Because I told you I love you” he asked irritated
“No! Stop it Nick, it didn’t change anything about us.” She cut in “I already made an
arrangement with Jed. We are going to the beach tomorrow.”
“I see. Enjoy your time with him then” Nick replied sounding jealous. Sarah had to
laugh. “Why are you laughing?” he asked
“You are jealous of your brother. Anyway you are included in the invitation. Peju
and tabby will be joining us too.”
“I’ll see you tomorrow then.”
“Okay. Drop me at home first.”
“Yes I’ll.” He started the engine and then turned to her again. “I mean what I say, I
love you.” He turn back to face the road as he drove her back home.
Jedidiah was just adding the finishing touch to the barbecue he was making,
when Nick called on him to ask if he was through with the cooking and if everything
was set. He had gone out to have his hair trimmed low and had just returned, with
bag of fruits they will be taking along with them to the beach. He had offered to pick Sarah up but she had gone with her mum and aunt to shop for the new session
starting. Since she’s returning to school earlier than the others she couldn’t wait till
the next weekend to shop as earlier planned. So her aunt offered to drop Sarah, Peju
and Anu at the Durojaiye’s on their way back while the Durojaiyes will ensure they
return home safe. Sarah had called to inform Jed earlier that Bankole and Tolu had
other engagements, so it was just the three of them that were coming to the beach
with them. He packed the chicken in the portable stock pot and answered Nick “I’m
done and so is Tabby” then he turn to check Tabitha, she was packing the fried rice
in the cooler. He rubbed his palm on the apron left the kitchen after instructing
Tabby to convey the food and other things they are taking with them, to Nick.
His mother had teased him consistently about his extra dedication to cooking
and his insistence on making the barbecue himself. In fact she did ask him if his
girlfriend was among the girls coming but he had shrugged and teased her about
taking the old man to beach so the youngsters can have the house to themselves. His
mum laughed so hard that Tabitha asked what he said to her but instead Jed excused
himself that he was busy in the kitchen. Now that he was through with the grilling,
his mind went to the early comment and he thought of Sarah. She had been his very
good friend, his best friend perhaps. He had never really thought he would be
jealous over her being with a guy until the guy was his brother. Though Sarah said
they were friends but he knew better. Nick was his brother and he was too certain
Nick is in-love with her. If Nick merely had interest in her, he would have set it
straight with him, but from all he could deduce, it was crystal clear Nick is in love.
He had even stopped seeing the other girls and he uses all his time for Sarah,
finding excuses just to be with her.
It’s really nice seeing that Nick is no longer the player he use to be still Jed
didn’t want to lose Sarah to him. He had tried to ask himself if he was in-love with
Sarah but each time the conclusion he reach is, probably he is. Now that he thought
of it again, he searched his heart, to know what he really feels for her. It dawn on
him then, Sarah had grown to be a big part of his life. The person he talks to about
almost anything, his fears, his dream and even his sporadic relationships. He knew
he love her but what kept him from asking her out all this while was he wasn’t
certain he was in-love with her and he never bothered about it since he always had her to himself, all her relationship in the past weren’t serious until her so called
‘friendship’ with Nick. She talks less, share things with him long after it happened,
unlike before. What made it worse for him is that the person she probably loves and
will date now is his brother. The thought that Sarah will come over to their house to
see Nick and not him was very upsetting for him. Even when he invited her to beach
she had made sure to include Nick in the invitation. He couldn’t wait to see the
outcome of the outing today. In spite of it all, he couldn’t wait to see her. It’s been
long since he last saw her.
He was adding cologne to his shirt when he heard the gate open. He moved
toward the window to his room and peep through; he saw Sarah came in through the
gate with two other girls. She wore short which he later discovered was jeans as she
walk towards the house giving him a better view. She wore a pink turtle neck blouse
on it, made of wool and she had her hair carefully styled to the back and held in a
bow at the nape of her neck. Her makeup was little and she looked more lovely than
he remembered. And he thought ‘if she ends up with you, Nick, you are damn lucky
and you had better treat her right!’ he grabbed his wallet and head out to greet their
guests.
Sarah was nervous initially but as she made for the door, Nick came from
nowhere and reached for Peju’s hand from behind. She was so relieved that he
would be ushering them in. she had been unease about facing his parents and all
that. But instead, everything was so easy from the point Nick showed up. His
greeting was casual yet very friendly. He made them feel at ease and when they
entered the house, it was a lovely cosy house but what appeal to Sarah most was the
ambience of everyone. Tabitha came over to greet and their mom and dad who
were talking before stopped to greet them warmly without asking any
uncomfortable question except the polite asking of their parents and their general
welfare. His mother insisted they eat a little, before setting out. They eventually
settle for sausage and juice. Tabby was serving their mini lunch when Jed came in to
greet. Nick took the opportunity to go and change his shirt since Jed was already
there to keep their companyWhen Jed sat with her to gist, she was a bit shy since they were talking, Tabby
was such a good spot; she engaged Peju and Anu in conversation. From what Sarah
was hearing they were taking about their preference in movie. While she and Jed
talk about school, the holiday so far, and he asked about her driving skill, she
already told him, she was learning. She sipped her juice when his dad called their
attention to their discussion.
“Are you all aware of the oncoming strike?” He asked no one in particular and they
all nodded their consent. “Most of the universities in the country will be affected.
You all had better start fasting and praying”
“I saw the news on the internet this morning too, God forbid it.” Tabitha was the first
to response. “I have a long way to go in my academics so I don’t need them to
prolong it further.”
“I really don’t know why they result in strike all the time. Are there no better way of
solving problems again?” Kikelomo put in
“Honestly! I wonder too. I mean there should be a better way of negotiating and
understanding between the government and it’s citizens without holding anyone to
ransom.” Akin hotly stated.
“And there is no telling to how long they will drag the issue, probably a week, a
month, three months or more. They better not commence any strike.” Jed said with
irritation.
“It’s alright brother, no need to take it personal” Nick said as he came in, he heard
Jed’s comment. “You can use the time to study more and write the book you always
wanted to write” he teased him
“Because your school always manage to exempt itself from any form of strike, right?
Your head!” Jed scowled at him.
“C’mon Nick, don’t rub it on Jed’s face now.” Sarah said trying to take Jed’s side but
it sounded to the others like she joined team with Nick and they laughed. “Oh am
sorry I didn’t mean to sound that way. It’s just that if only other schools would reason
in similar light as the administrators of our school especially on the issue of strike, it would be great. Personally I see the lecturers holding the government, a whole
country to ransom which should not be.”
“You are right my dear. They are acting like the robbers that hold people hostage
while negotiating for price. The students that they claim they are fighting for are the
ones suffering the most! Wasting their precious time, I mean, they don’t know the
earlier these kids finish school the better they join the work force or even become
entrepreneurs that will further develop the country or else these kids might end up
causing public unrest and becoming a menace to the society, remember the idle
hand is the devil’s workshop” Akin put in.
“What are we saying, what are you saying?” Kike asked “so it’s the fault of the
teachers now because they are fighting for infrastructures that will aid the students
to learn better? You should talk to the government, to do what is right in time before
the issue of strike come into view at all.”
“You can imagine. They will start to take each other’s side niyen. You should look at
something objectively and not because you are in the same profession, no!” Akin
accused his wife. “Like the young lady said, there should be another device to
tackling the issue than incessant strike. What if there is no option of sending the
student home, aren’t they going to fight for their ‘so called’ right?” He asked his wife
“and what’s worse is that the students now suffering will not remember how painful
it was staying at home because of strike, and so when they get to position they allow
history to repeat itself instead of rewriting the history. Because the people in power
today were once students and they have had similar experience in the past yet
nothing to show for it” he shook his head as he spoke and the kids nodded more out
of respect than agreement and they use the opportunity to excuse themselves and
hurled out of the house.
As the clock ticks, the sound become more prominent, it was an indication of
how much into the night, they are. Sarah looked up to check the time on the wallclock, it was past eleven and she still couldn’t sleep. Peju was snoring beside her
buts she was still wide eyed. Her mind kept going back to replay the event of the day, especially the latter part. The day started so well with the shopping she did.
She was able to buy everything on her list, her mum was so generous with her and
her aunt bought even more for her as a present. The visit to the Durojaiyes was
tremendous for her, the family was so endearing with lots of warmth. The mum was
so gracious and the dad very pleasant, they even listen to the opinion of their
children. She had been astonished when the dad throw the discussion he was having
with his wife, to them to express their view. It was all so charming and in some ways
made her miss her dad, although she also has a happy family with Peju and her
mum. But Nick’s dad was so intelligent in the way he share his opinion with a gentle
air of authority and with all the gesticulation. Sarah could understand now what Jed
mean and the strong longing to be exceptionally good and successful. From her
observation the boys look more like their mother facially and Tabby like their dad,
though Nick had his charisma and intelligence. Jed had that too, she thought. Tabby
was very pleasant also, she almost forget how nice she had always been. Their
family is so incredible, she concluded. Despite their challenges which Sarah was
aware of some of it, they managed to stay strong and close. All families have their
own challenges and their own share of trouble but very few of them are truly
affectionate as the one she saw today. Her family is also very close but she had
always thought they were close because they knew how it felt to lose some dear and
they knew how precious time really is. It was very reassuring and refreshing to
know family can be together like that without having to lose someone.
The sweet evening gave a new turn later on at the beach when the two
brothers were at each other’s throat. Peju unconsciously while sleeping lift a leg and
place it on Sarah, she always does that sometimes, always wrapping herself around
her sister or her mother. Sarah smiled and gently put her leg back on her side, then
continued in her reflection. They had been playing with water as it heaves back and
forth as the tide of the wave rises and fall. They all talked about celebrity crush,
entertainment gossips then they rode horses too. She rode horse with Jed and that
was what starts the silly fight. She had asked Jed to ride with her without thinking
and they had gone on the ride where he told her he has started writing his book. It’s
a motivational book and he told her how much the book meant to him. For him it’s
about the things he has survived, sees people survived, and wants to encourage others never to give up. He finished telling her of the book as they landed and she
hugged him whispering to him how proud of him, she was but Nick didn’t ride with
them and neither did he know what they had been discussing before. He flared up
in anger and literally pulled her away from him, then turned to Jed to say ‘she is my
girlfriend now brother, please behave yourself when you are with her’. Sarah could
still see his face as he said the words. It was so annoying, irritating and
embarrassing but before she could react Jed was already in front of Nick glaring at
him as he threatened him. They both said a lot of awful things to each other in the
presence of their sister, Peju and her cousin. It was awful. She had to set them
straight, she told Nick, she was no one’s girlfriend and told Jed, she could stand up
for herself.
She was really confused. Just yesterday she was so happy with Nick’s
declaration and now he was acting like he owns her. She wasn’t going to allow him
control her. She shifted on the bed, determined to force herself to sleep when her
phone rang. She checked to see who the caller was and saw it was him. She breathe
the word “Hello” still annoyed at him
“I love you” he said and pause for her to respond but when she didn’t, he continued.
“I’m really sorry I reacted the way I did today. I was just jealous seeing you hug him
like that.” He pause “I’m really sorry” still there was no reply from her “Are you
there?”
“Yes I’m here. Its late Nick, it’s almost midnight. How about we talk tomorrow?”
“I can’t sleep over this. I presume you can’t either” he attempts to smile and she
sensed it.
“It’s not funny and I’m not awake because of you.” She lied “I’m only upset.”
“Am I forgiven?” he asked
“Of course. However, you should know we are not dating. I did not give you my
consent as to going out with you. Nick, Jed has been my friend long before I met you
and you know it. Why would you harass him like that?”“Baby, I know and that is why I was so jealous. I was never really sure of the type of
friendship you have with him.”
“Is it so difficult for you to understand that a boy and girl can be close without any
label? Is this what this is? Could it be because you never had such friend?”
“Sarah, don’t make this about me and I am no longer that type of person. I don’t want
to play games anymore.”
“Well, I’m happy for you. I’ll think and pray about what you are asking me. In the
meantime please let’s enjoy our friendship and please don’t interfere between Jed
and I.”
“Do you love him?”
“Yes but as a friend. We are so alike in our ways and thinking. We both need to find
someone different to compliment us, more like the complementary DNA strands.”
“I know better now. I promise not to doubt you again.” Nick said
“Thanks”
“I love you. Try and get some sleep.”
“I will”
“Bye”
“Bye”
She set the phone back down under her pillow as she smiled in relief. At least
she and Nick are back on track but she knew she owe Jed an apology,
somewhat…his face had darkened with hurt written all over his face as his brother
made the declaration about her. She made a mental note to call Jed tomorrow and
she slept.