Sisterhood episode 44 part B
TITLE: SISTERHOOD
AUTHOR: OGECHI ALABI
CHAPTER 44
Nkem stayed with Demian. She lay on the bed with him. They talked until it was late and they both fell asleep. Both of them slept for a whole eight hours straight. They were both exhausted without realising it.
Demian went with Nkem to her flat. Luckily, her flatmate was out when she came in. She took her bath, changed her clothes and made breakfast for them with some of the items they bought. They sat together in the sitting room and ate.
Demian was almost dozing off in the sitting room. Nkem led him to her bedroom and left him to sleep while she made lunch for him. He requested for ofe okazi with fufu. She made the soup with goat meat, stock fish and asa fish. The entire flat smelt delicious.When it was ready. Her flatmate returned.
Nkem offered her some of the food. She accepted. Nkem took the tray of food to her bedroom. She woke Demian up to eat. He sat up and to her greatest surprise, he finished the entire food. He went back to sleep. He was very tired. Nkem cleared the plates and stayed in the sitting room watching a television programme.
Read – Dream chapter 2 – 3
Demian woke up later and he joined her in the sitting room. He wanted to get back to the hotel. She accepted.
“Would you be joining me later?” he asked her.
“I don’t know, there is a church service tomorrow.”
“We can go to church from there. Once you are near, I sleep like a baby. I could smell your scent on the pillowcase and it helped me sleep. There is no ac in the room, if not I would have stayed. We have to get one for you before I go back.”
Nkem thought about it. Her flatmate could snitch on her. She decided to risk it since uncle Tobi hadn’t called her yet. Her flatmate came out of her room and met Demian. Nkem introduced them. She introduced Demian as her bestie. Her flatmate was carried away by his accent. Nkem left them to talk while she packed the food she made for his dinner.
“So Nkem, I will be expecting you. Please don’t disappoint me. Thanks for the hospitality,” Demian said to her as he left.
Nkem’s flatmate wanted Nkem to hook her up with Demian. Nkem explained to her he is based in the United States. He just came on a short visit before he fell ill. But Nkem promised to put in a good word. She also told her she was going to spend the night outside again.
Demian was excited to see her. He had eaten and was waiting for her to come. They went for a stroll. They had very good conversations that lasted hours. Demian talked about his mother’s latest escapade.
“When I fell ill, I asked my sister to take me to the hospital before my condition deteriorated. I could feel how ill I was and I knew what would happen if I didn’t act immediately. She arrived with my mother. I was offended. I didn’t want to call an ambulance because of the cost but I almost did. I didn’t want her breathing down my neck. At the hospital, I was admitted and treated. I spent a week there. I was still stressed out and I had stopped eating and I couldn’t get myself to do anything. When I was discharged, I went right back to work. I tried to throw myself into the work so I would not have anything to think about. I was depressed. My apartment was a mess, a complete mess. I only drank soda which affected me. I was back in the hospital. I spent another week there. This time, I needed to be completely recuperated. My mother moved in with me to help me. I resigned but they wouldn’t let me go. Instead, they allowed me to work from home. She started the whole getting married and living with my wife harassment again. She said if I had a wife, I would have gone to the hospital earlier and I wouldn’t have needed a blood transfusion.”
“Demian, I have never asked you this but I just have to now. What ailment are you battling?”
Demian was quiet for some time and then he said, “I am a sickler. I look it now because I allowed it to ravage my body. I hardly fall ill but recently, it has been frequent.”
Nkem was surprised. She had never met a sickler before. She felt bad. He didn’t look it at all. “You look better than when you came to my office, I was scared. Is that what it does to you?”
“I allowed it. I stopped taking my medications, I wanted to die.”
“What?” Nkem asked. “Why would you want to do that?”
“Because the girl I love misunderstood me, stopped talking to me for months and blocked my every available channel of communication. After a month, I couldn’t take it anymore.”
“Why would you say this? Because of me, you fell ill? I don’t believe that.”
“I knew you wouldn’t. I feel better now. I wanted to take my meds that was why I left your apartment when I did. That’s apart from it being hot. I am getting stronger. I told my mother no other woman can nurse me to health except the one I love. She wants to meet her.”
“Where will you find her? Demian, let’s not start this again. I don’t want to get involved with your family.”
“Ok. But, we are still best friends.”
“Yes, we are. Best friends for life.”
“Don’t ghost me ever again.”
“I promise I won’t.”
Demian stayed another week before he went back to America. He spent some nights in Nkem’s room after he had installed an air conditioner for her. Her flatmate approached him but he told her he had a girlfriend already. She still wanted to hang out with him but he declined.
On their last night together, Demian told Nkem he wouldn’t be coming back for Christmas. He asked if Nkem would like to come to the US for the Christmas holiday. Nkem was surprised and also excited. She didn’t have an international passport. He gave her all the naira cash he had on him. He asked her to get the passport, he would send travel documents for her to spend two weeks with him in America.
She saw him off to the airport the day he left. He was happy and looked a lot healthier. He didn’t want to go back but he had to. He would miss Nkem too much. He had to get her the necessary travel documents. He hoped when she came over, he would be able to convince her to stay back with him.
Nkem knew she would miss Demian. The last two weeks had been amazing. She enjoyed his company and he was such a gentleman. She wished he could stay longer but she wanted him to go back, he had a doctor’s appointment.
Ever since she found out he was a sickler, she was more caring towards him. She had researched and asked about the disease. She understood why his mother was on his case, she was scared he wouldn’t live long without adequate care.
They had grown closer but still, she didn’t feel the sexual chemistry between them. She had caught him on several occasions looking at her when he thought she wasn’t seeing him. It was cute. She hoped as the affection had grown maybe other things would grow. He seemed to like her a lot. Her mother advised her that it was better he loved her more than she loved him.
When his boarding announcement was made, Demian hugged and pecked Nkem before leaving. Then he turned back and looked at her. He came back to her and hugged her again. She had tears in her eyes and for the first time, he kissed her lips and held her close to him. “I can’t wait to see you again. I love you,” and then he left while the tears dropped from her eyes.
He made her apply for an international passport immediately after he got back. He gathered all the documents he needed to give her for the visa application. He asked her to get some documents from the office where she worked.
Finally, he sent her a letter of invitation. He called her his girlfriend which made her smile. She was ready to do this. She wanted to get to know him better. She wanted to understand the disease and look for how to help him. She couldn’t deny she liked him and that the past two weeks were beautiful.
She applied for the visa and was granted two years. She couldn’t believe it. She was travelling to America. She was so excited. When she shared the news with Demian he screamed for joy. He was more excited than her. He told her to private about it and keep her passport safe. He asked her to scan a copy of the visa to him. He booked a date for the trip, they would spend Christmas and New year together.
###
With two of her friends settled down, it was Funke’s turn to get married. They had decided on a December date and had to prepare for the wedding. Invitations were sent out and preparations were in full gear. Funke had to travel to get her wedding gown and accessories. It was going to be a big occasion. Her mother insisted she wears aso oke for her first outing. It was handmade and heavily embroidered.
Ebuka’s family was also getting ready for the wedding. They were preparing to go above board. Ebuka was the first son and he was marrying the daughter of two successful chartered accountants. It was a show of wealth and as Anambra people, they had to make a show. Ebuka couldn’t believe how far they were going.
They couldn’t continue to live in the guest house. His father wanted to buy a property for them but Ebuka declined. He had money to pay for the rent and also furnish a flat. He had been saving for it. He and Funke wanted to live simple lives. Ebuka went with Funke house hunting. They wanted a flat, possibly a two-bedroom. They found a very nice flat in a beautiful environment. Ebuka paid for it. They furnished it together. It was their home and they loved it. They wanted to move into the flat after their honeymoon.
They travelled to Ogun state for traditional marriage. The traditional wedding was beautiful. It had all the glam Yorubas are known for. Her parents spared no expense. Her outfits were exquisite. Ebuka was proud he was marrying her. He had always had eyes for her and now she was completely his. His biggest pride was that he was her first and he would be her only.
Nkem was her chief bride’s maid. The next weekend was the white wedding. They had a bridal shower for Funke two days before the wedding in Lagos. Funke invited some of her cousins and her friends were the organisers. She was given beautiful gifts and the married ones amongst them told their challenges at being married and how they overcame them. Most of the stories were hilarious.
Later that night, the four friends were together. There was catching up to do. They hadn’t been in the same space alone in a while. They had so much to talk about.
The first shocker was Esther’s pregnancy. It wasn’t obvious but she shared the good news. “Jake is so excited and happy. He wants me to have our babies in America so they would be American citizens. He has promised to buy a house in my name if I have a son for him first. I know it is a boy and I am excited.”
They were all happy. They looked at her belly, it hadn’t grown out yet but it was still a joyful moment for them.
Zainab talked about her move to Lagos with Bashir. She said the marriage had been ok. She wasn’t ready to have a child yet until Bashir’s business picked up and they can get a place of their own. They stayed in his uncle’s house. It was part of the family house. They strolled into their apartment anytime they liked. The family was very nosy.
“There was a time Bashir and I were making out in the sitting room, and his uncle’s last wife barged in. I had told Bashir to either lock the door or we enter the room but he said I wasn’t spontaneous enough. My top was off. I had to use my hands to hide my breasts. She dropped what she came with, looked at me with disdain and then left. I was so angry but Bashir just laughed over it and waited for us to continue. I had to lock the door and close the curtains. Would you believe she was still by the window? I closed the window and the curtain.”
“With your bare chest?” Nkem asked. They all laughed.
“I used my top to cover my chest.”
“So, how is Bashir?” Nkem asked again.
“He has been fine. He has some contracts and is making money but he doesn’t want to leave his uncle’s house. He wants to make enough to buy a house. The uncle’s wife cooks for us, I don’t get to cook in the house. I complained but he said until we move to our house, it will remain like that.”
“Keep praying for him to get enough money to buy a house. At least you are still working.” Funke suggested.
They knew about Funke and Ebuka. Esther and Zainab didn’t know about pregnancy and abortion. It was Nkem’s turn. They wanted to know how far with Demian.
“He invited me to the US for Christmas.”
“What?” they all chorused. They fished for details.
Nkem told them what transpired and also added his visit to her in Abuja without disclosing his disease. She then told them how he facilitated her getting her international passport and then the visa.
“You are a hard girl, this guy has been patient with you. Why not give him a chance?” Funke asked.
“My mother advised me to accept his offer. I have many suitors in Abuja, but those ones can’t be trusted. Demian has been there for a long time now. I see how all of you are when you see or talk to your lovers. I don’t feel that way with Demian. I am excited but that’s all. I have more sibling love feelings for him. But I will allow this trip to decide for me.”
“Would you be staying with him? Are you ready to give him what he wants?” Esther asked.
“What does he want? He is a gentleman and wouldn’t want to pressurise me into something I am not into. I still want to keep myself. There is no hurry.”
“Please do. But money is good! You look so radiant. See your glowing skin, it didn’t change colour in that Abuja with the hot sun. Why won’t the guy want you to visit him? You are so beautiful. And you are losing your accent too,” Funke added.
“Uncle Tobi has been helping me. He buys me foodstuff whenever he travels. He drops it with my flatmate most time. I told you he stopped my food business and gave me the money I was making every month. He said I have a good reputation there and the chances they would retain me are high. I am so looking forward to it. I will work for two years and then travel for my Master’s degree. When I come back, I will get into another ministry or parastatal. A colleague in the office did it.”
Funke wasn’t comfortable with the conversation about uncle Tobi. He hardly ever mentioned Nkem. Why was he doing all this for her? She trusted Nkem. Since she had decided to visit Demian, it means she was considering a future with him. She liked Demian and Nkem’s relationship. She believed Nkem would fall in love soon enough and they will settle down. There was no backing down from Demian.
Nkem stayed with Demian. She lay on the bed with him. They talked until it was late and they both fell asleep. Both of them slept for a whole eight hours straight. They were both exhausted without realising it.
Demian went with Nkem to her flat. Luckily, her flatmate was out when she came in. She took her bath, changed her clothes and made breakfast for them with some of the items they bought. They sat together in the sitting room and ate.
Demian was almost dozing off in the sitting room. Nkem led him to her bedroom and left him to sleep while she made lunch for him. He requested for ofe okazi with fufu. She made the soup with goat meat, stock fish and asa fish. The entire flat smelt delicious.When it was ready. Her flatmate returned.
Nkem offered her some of the food. She accepted. Nkem took the tray of food to her bedroom. She woke Demian up to eat. He sat up and to her greatest surprise, he finished the entire food. He went back to sleep. He was very tired. Nkem cleared the plates and stayed in the sitting room watching a television programme.
Demian woke up later and he joined her in the sitting room. He wanted to get back to the hotel. She accepted.
“Would you be joining me later?” he asked her.
“I don’t know, there is a church service tomorrow.”
“We can go to church from there. Once you are near, I sleep like a baby. I could smell your scent on the pillowcase and it helped me sleep. There is no ac in the room, if not I would have stayed. We have to get one for you before I go back.”
Nkem thought about it. Her flatmate could snitch on her. She decided to risk it since uncle Tobi hadn’t called her yet. Her flatmate came out of her room and met Demian. Nkem introduced them. She introduced Demian as her bestie. Her flatmate was carried away by his accent. Nkem left them to talk while she packed the food she made for his dinner.
“So Nkem, I will be expecting you. Please don’t disappoint me. Thanks for the hospitality,” Demian said to her as he left.
Nkem’s flatmate wanted Nkem to hook her up with Demian. Nkem explained to her he is based in the United States. He just came on a short visit before he fell ill. But Nkem promised to put in a good word. She also told her she was going to spend the night outside again.
Demian was excited to see her. He had eaten and was waiting for her to come. They went for a stroll. They had very good conversations that lasted hours. Demian talked about his mother’s latest escapade.
“When I fell ill, I asked my sister to take me to the hospital before my condition deteriorated. I could feel how ill I was and I knew what would happen if I didn’t act immediately. She arrived with my mother. I was offended. I didn’t want to call an ambulance because of the cost but I almost did. I didn’t want her breathing down my neck. At the hospital, I was admitted and treated. I spent a week there. I was still stressed out and I had stopped eating and I couldn’t get myself to do anything. When I was discharged, I went right back to work. I tried to throw myself into the work so I would not have anything to think about. I was depressed. My apartment was a mess, a complete mess. I only drank soda which affected me. I was back in the hospital. I spent another week there. This time, I needed to be completely recuperated. My mother moved in with me to help me. I resigned but they wouldn’t let me go. Instead, they allowed me to work from home. She started the whole getting married and living with my wife harassment again. She said if I had a wife, I would have gone to the hospital earlier and I wouldn’t have needed a blood transfusion.”
“Demian, I have never asked you this but I just have to now. What ailment are you battling?”
Demian was quiet for some time and then he said, “I am a sickler. I look it now because I allowed it to ravage my body. I hardly fall ill but recently, it has been frequent.”
Nkem was surprised. She had never met a sickler before. She felt bad. He didn’t look it at all. “You look better than when you came to my office, I was scared. Is that what it does to you?”
“I allowed it. I stopped taking my medications, I wanted to die.”
“What?” Nkem asked. “Why would you want to do that?”
“Because the girl I love misunderstood me, stopped talking to me for months and blocked my every available channel of communication. After a month, I couldn’t take it anymore.”
“Why would you say this? Because of me, you fell ill? I don’t believe that.”
“I knew you wouldn’t. I feel better now. I wanted to take my meds that was why I left your apartment when I did. That’s apart from it being hot. I am getting stronger. I told my mother no other woman can nurse me to health except the one I love. She wants to meet her.”
“Where will you find her? Demian, let’s not start this again. I don’t want to get involved with your family.”
“Ok. But, we are still best friends.”
“Yes, we are. Best friends for life.”
“Don’t ghost me ever again.”
“I promise I won’t.”
Demian stayed another week before he went back to America. He spent some nights in Nkem’s room after he had installed an air conditioner for her. Her flatmate approached him but he told her he had a girlfriend already. She still wanted to hang out with him but he declined.
On their last night together, Demian told Nkem he wouldn’t be coming back for Christmas. He asked if Nkem would like to come to the US for the Christmas holiday. Nkem was surprised and also excited. She didn’t have an international passport. He gave her all the naira cash he had on him. He asked her to get the passport, and he would send travel documents for her to spend two weeks with him in America.
She saw him off to the airport the day he left. He was happy and looked a lot healthier. He didn’t want to go back but he had to. He would miss Nkem too much. He had to get her the necessary travel documents. He hoped when she came over, he would be able to convince her to stay back with him.
Nkem knew she would miss Demian. The last two weeks had been amazing. She enjoyed his company and he was such a gentleman. She wished he could stay longer but she wanted him to go back, he had a doctor’s appointment.
Ever since she found out he was a sickler, she was more caring towards him. She had researched and asked about the disease. She understood why his mother was on his case, she was scared he wouldn’t live long without adequate care.
They had grown closer but still, she didn’t feel the sexual chemistry between them. She had caught him on several occasions looking at her when he thought she wasn’t seeing him. It was cute. She hoped as the affection had grown maybe other things would grow. He seemed to like her a lot. Her mother advised her that it was better he loved her more than she loved him.
When his boarding announcement was made, Demian hugged and pecked Nkem before leaving. Then he turned back and looked at her. He came back to her and hugged her again. She had tears in her eyes and for the first time, he kissed her lips and held her close to him. “I can’t wait to see you again. I love you,” and then he left while the tears dropped from her eyes.
He made her apply for an international passport immediately after he got back. He gathered all the documents he needed to give her for the visa application. He asked her to get some documents from the office where she worked.
Finally, he sent her a letter of invitation. He called her his girlfriend which made her smile. She was ready to do this. She wanted to get to know him better. She wanted to understand the disease and look for how to help him. She couldn’t deny she liked him and that the past two weeks were beautiful.
She applied for the visa and was granted two years. She couldn’t believe it. She was travelling to America. She was so excited. When she shared the news with Demian he screamed for joy. He was more excited than her. He told her to private about it and keep her passport safe. He asked her to scan a copy of the visa to him. He booked a date for the trip, they would spend Christmas and New year together.
###
With two of her friends settled down, it was Funke’s turn to get married. They had decided on a December date and had to prepare for the wedding. Invitations were sent out and preparations were in full gear. Funke had to travel to get her wedding gown and accessories. It was going to be a big occasion. Her mother insisted she wears aso oke for her first outing. It was handmade and heavily embroidered.
Ebuka’s family was also getting ready for the wedding. They were preparing to go above board. Ebuka was the first son and he was marrying the daughter of two successful chartered accountants. It was a show of wealth and as Anambra people, they had to make a show. Ebuka couldn’t believe how far they were going.
They couldn’t continue to live in the guest house. His father wanted to buy a property for them but Ebuka declined. He had money to pay for the rent and also furnish a flat. He had been saving for it. He and Funke wanted to live simple lives. Ebuka went with Funke house hunting. They wanted a flat, possibly a two-bedroom. They found a very nice flat in a beautiful environment. Ebuka paid for it. They furnished it together. It was their home and they loved it. They wanted to move into the flat after their honeymoon.
They travelled to Ogun state for traditional marriage. The traditional wedding was beautiful. It had all the glam Yorubas are known for. Her parents spared no expense. Her outfits were exquisite. Ebuka was proud he was marrying her. He had always had eyes for her and now she was completely his. His biggest pride was that he was her first and he would be her only.
Nkem was her chief bride’s maid. The next weekend was the white wedding. They had a bridal shower for Funke two days before the wedding in Lagos. Funke invited some of her cousins and her friends were the organisers. She was given beautiful gifts and the married ones amongst them told their challenges at being married and how they overcame them. Most of the stories were hilarious.
Later that night, the four friends were together. There was catching up to do. They hadn’t been in the same space alone in a while. They had so much to talk about.
The first shocker was Esther’s pregnancy. It wasn’t obvious but she shared the good news. “Jake is so excited and happy. He wants me to have our babies in America so they would be American citizens. He has promised to buy a house in my name if I have a son for him first. I know it is a boy and I am excited.”
They were all happy. They looked at her belly, it hadn’t grown out yet but it was still a joyful moment for them.
Zainab talked about her move to Lagos with Bashir. She said the marriage had been ok. She wasn’t ready to have a child yet until Bashir’s business picked up and they can get a place of their own. They stayed in his uncle’s house. It was part of the family house. They strolled into their apartment anytime they liked. The family was very nosy.
“There was a time Bashir and I were making out in the sitting room, and his uncle’s last wife barged in. I had told Bashir to either lock the door or we enter the room but he said I wasn’t spontaneous enough. My top was off. I had to use my hands to hide my breasts. She dropped what she came with, looked at me with disdain and then left. I was so angry but Bashir just laughed over it and waited for us to continue. I had to lock the door and close the curtains. Would you believe she was still by the window? I closed the window and the curtain.”
“With your bare chest?” Nkem asked. They all laughed.
“I used my top to cover my chest.”
“So, how is Bashir?” Nkem asked again.
“He has been fine. He has some contracts and is making money but he doesn’t want to leave his uncle’s house. He wants to make enough to buy a house. The uncle’s wife cooks for us, I don’t get to cook in the house. I complained but he said until we move to our house, it will remain like that.”
“Keep praying for him to get enough money to buy a house. At least you are still working.” Funke suggested.
They knew about Funke and Ebuka. Esther and Zainab didn’t know about pregnancy and abortion. It was Nkem’s turn. They wanted to know how far with Demian.
“He invited me to the US for Christmas.”
“What?” they all chorused. They fished for details.
Nkem told them what transpired and also added his visit to her in Abuja without disclosing his disease. She then told them how he facilitated her getting her international passport and then the visa.
“You are a hard girl, this guy has been patient with you. Why not give him a chance?” Funke asked.
“My mother advised me to accept his offer. I have many suitors in Abuja, but those ones can’t be trusted. Demian has been there for a long time now. I see how all of you are when you see or talk to your lovers. I don’t feel that way with Demian. I am excited but that’s all. I have more sibling love feelings for him. But I will allow this trip to decide for me.”
“Would you be staying with him? Are you ready to give him what he wants?” Esther asked.
“What does he want? He is a gentleman and wouldn’t want to pressurise me into something I am not into. I still want to keep myself. There is no hurry.”
“Please do. But money is good! You look so radiant. See your glowing skin, it didn’t change colour in that Abuja with the hot sun. Why won’t the guy want you to visit him? You are so beautiful. And you are losing your accent too,” Funke added.
“Uncle Tobi has been helping me. He buys me foodstuff whenever he travels. He drops it with my flatmate most time. I told you he stopped my food business and gave me the money I was making every month. He said I have a good reputation there and the chances they would retain me are high. I am so looking forward to it. I will work for two years and then travel for my Master’s degree. When I come back, I will get into another ministry or parastatal. A colleague in the office did it.”
Funke wasn’t comfortable with the conversation about uncle Tobi. He hardly ever mentioned Nkem. Why was he doing all this for her? She trusted Nkem. Since she had decided to visit Demian, it means she was considering a future with him. She liked Demian and Nkem’s relationship. She believed Nkem would fall in love soon enough and they will settle down. There was no backing down from Demian.
Author Note:
I’m grateful to everyone who has contributed to the purchase of NECO GCE forms for underprivileged students. May God bless you.
We have successfully registered 6 students out of nine. We have money for 1 and a half payments. We need to cover 2 and a half payments. Per candidate, it is N24,000. If you are touched to help, kindly do. TITLE: SISTERHOOD
AUTHOR: OGECHI ALABI
CHAPTER 44
Nkem stayed with Demian. She lay on the bed with him. They talked until it was late and they both fell asleep. Both of them slept for a whole eight hours straight. They were both exhausted without realising it.
Demian went with Nkem to her flat. Luckily, her flatmate was out when she came in. She took her bath, changed her clothes and made breakfast for them with some of the items they bought. They sat together in the sitting room and ate.
Demian was almost dozing off in the sitting room. Nkem led him to her bedroom and left him to sleep while she made lunch for him. He requested for ofe okazi with fufu. She made the soup with goat meat, stock fish and asa fish. The entire flat smelt delicious.When it was ready. Her flatmate returned.
Nkem offered her some of the food. She accepted. Nkem took the tray of food to her bedroom. She woke Demian up to eat. He sat up and to her greatest surprise, he finished the entire food. He went back to sleep. He was very tired. Nkem cleared the plates and stayed in the sitting room watching a television programme.
Demian woke up later and he joined her in the sitting room. He wanted to get back to the hotel. She accepted.
“Would you be joining me later?” he asked her.
“I don’t know, there is a church service tomorrow.”
“We can go to church from there. Once you are near, I sleep like a baby. I could smell your scent on the pillowcase and it helped me sleep. There is no ac in the room, if not I would have stayed. We have to get one for you before I go back.”
Read – It should have been like this episode 1
Nkem thought about it. Her flatmate could snitch on her. She decided to risk it since uncle Tobi hadn’t called her yet. Her flatmate came out of her room and met Demian. Nkem introduced them. She introduced Demian as her bestie. Her flatmate was carried away by his accent. Nkem left them to talk while she packed the food she made for his dinner.
“So Nkem, I will be expecting you. Please don’t disappoint me. Thanks for the hospitality,” Demian said to her as he left.
Nkem’s flatmate wanted Nkem to hook her up with Demian. Nkem explained to her he is based in the United States. He just came on a short visit before he fell ill. But Nkem promised to put in a good word. She also told her she was going to spend the night outside again.
Demian was excited to see her. He had eaten and was waiting for her to come. They went for a stroll. They had very good conversations that lasted hours. Demian talked about his mother’s latest escapade.
“When I fell ill, I asked my sister to take me to the hospital before my condition deteriorated. I could feel how ill I was and I knew what would happen if I didn’t act immediately. She arrived with my mother. I was offended. I didn’t want to call an ambulance because of the cost but I almost did. I didn’t want her breathing down my neck. At the hospital, I was admitted and treated. I spent a week there. I was still stressed out and I had stopped eating and I couldn’t get myself to do anything. When I was discharged, I went right back to work. I tried to throw myself into the work so I would not have anything to think about. I was depressed. My apartment was a mess, a complete mess. I only drank soda which affected me. I was back in the hospital. I spent another week there. This time, I needed to be completely recuperated. My mother moved in with me to help me. I resigned but they wouldn’t let me go. Instead, they allowed me to work from home. She started the whole getting married and living with my wife harassment again. She said if I had a wife, I would have gone to the hospital earlier and I wouldn’t have needed a blood transfusion.”
“Demian, I have never asked you this but I just have to now. What ailment are you battling?”
Demian was quiet for some time and then he said, “I am a sickler. I look it now because I allowed it to ravage my body. I hardly fall ill but recently, it has been frequent.”
Nkem was surprised. She had never met a sickler before. She felt bad. He didn’t look it at all. “You look better than when you came to my office, I was scared. Is that what it does to you?”
“I allowed it. I stopped taking my medications, I wanted to die.”
“What?” Nkem asked. “Why would you want to do that?”
“Because the girl I love misunderstood me, stopped talking to me for months and blocked my every available channel of communication. After a month, I couldn’t take it anymore.”
“Why would you say this? Because of me, you fell ill? I don’t believe that.”
“I knew you wouldn’t. I feel better now. I wanted to take my meds that was why I left your apartment when I did. That’s apart from it being hot. I am getting stronger. I told my mother no other woman can nurse me to health except the one I love. She wants to meet her.”
“Where will you find her? Demian, let’s not start this again. I don’t want to get involved with your family.”
“Ok. But, we are still best friends.”
“Yes, we are. Best friends for life.”
“Don’t ghost me ever again.”
“I promise I won’t.”
Demian stayed another week before he went back to America. He spent some nights in Nkem’s room after he had installed an air conditioner for her. Her flatmate approached him but he told her he had a girlfriend already. She still wanted to hang out with him but he declined.
On their last night together, Demian told Nkem he wouldn’t be coming back for Christmas. He asked if Nkem would like to come to the US for the Christmas holiday. Nkem was surprised and also excited. She didn’t have an international passport. He gave her all the naira cash he had on him. He asked her to get the passport, he would send travel documents for her to spend two weeks with him in America.
She saw him off to the airport the day he left. He was happy and looked a lot healthier. He didn’t want to go back but he had to. He would miss Nkem too much. He had to get her the necessary travel documents. He hoped when she came over, he would be able to convince her to stay back with him.
Nkem knew she would miss Demian. The last two weeks had been amazing. She enjoyed his company and he was such a gentleman. She wished he could stay longer but she wanted him to go back, he had a doctor’s appointment.
Ever since she found out he was a sickler, she was more caring towards him. She had researched and asked about the disease. She understood why his mother was on his case, she was scared he wouldn’t live long without adequate care.
They had grown closer but still, she didn’t feel the sexual chemistry between them. She had caught him on several occasions looking at her when he thought she wasn’t seeing him. It was cute. She hoped as the affection had grown maybe other things would grow. He seemed to like her a lot. Her mother advised her that it was better he loved her more than she loved him.
When his boarding announcement was made, Demian hugged and pecked Nkem before leaving. Then he turned back and looked at her. He came back to her and hugged her again. She had tears in her eyes and for the first time, he kissed her lips and held her close to him. “I can’t wait to see you again. I love you,” and then he left while the tears dropped from her eyes.
He made her apply for an international passport immediately after he got back. He gathered all the documents he needed to give her for the visa application. He asked her to get some documents from the office where she worked.
Finally, he sent her a letter of invitation. He called her his girlfriend which made her smile. She was ready to do this. She wanted to get to know him better. She wanted to understand the disease and look for how to help him. She couldn’t deny she liked him and that the past two weeks were beautiful.
She applied for the visa and was granted two years. She couldn’t believe it. She was travelling to America. She was so excited. When she shared the news with Demian he screamed for joy. He was more excited than her. He told her to private about it and keep her passport safe. He asked her to scan a copy of the visa to him. He booked a date for the trip, they would spend Christmas and New year together.
###
With two of her friends settled down, it was Funke’s turn to get married. They had decided on a December date and had to prepare for the wedding. Invitations were sent out and preparations were in full gear. Funke had to travel to get her wedding gown and accessories. It was going to be a big occasion. Her mother insisted she wears aso oke for her first outing. It was handmade and heavily embroidered.
Ebuka’s family was also getting ready for the wedding. They were preparing to go above board. Ebuka was the first son and he was marrying the daughter of two successful chartered accountants. It was a show of wealth and as Anambra people, they had to make a show. Ebuka couldn’t believe how far they were going.
They couldn’t continue to live in the guest house. His father wanted to buy a property for them but Ebuka declined. He had money to pay for the rent and also furnish a flat. He had been saving for it. He and Funke wanted to live simple lives. Ebuka went with Funke house hunting. They wanted a flat, possibly a two-bedroom. They found a very nice flat in a beautiful environment. Ebuka paid for it. They furnished it together. It was their home and they loved it. They wanted to move into the flat after their honeymoon.
They travelled to Ogun state for traditional marriage. The traditional wedding was beautiful. It had all the glam Yorubas are known for. Her parents spared no expense. Her outfits were exquisite. Ebuka was proud he was marrying her. He had always had eyes for her and now she was completely his. His biggest pride was that he was her first and he would be her only.
Nkem was her chief bride’s maid. The next weekend was the white wedding. They had a bridal shower for Funke two days before the wedding in Lagos. Funke invited some of her cousins and her friends were the organisers. She was given beautiful gifts and the married ones amongst them told their challenges at being married and how they overcame them. Most of the stories were hilarious.
Later that night, the four friends were together. There was catching up to do. They hadn’t been in the same space alone in a while. They had so much to talk about.
The first shocker was Esther’s pregnancy. It wasn’t obvious but she shared the good news. “Jake is so excited and happy. He wants me to have our babies in America so they would be American citizens. He has promised to buy a house in my name if I have a son for him first. I know it is a boy and I am excited.”
They were all happy. They looked at her belly, it hadn’t grown out yet but it was still a joyful moment for them.
Zainab talked about her move to Lagos with Bashir. She said the marriage had been ok. She wasn’t ready to have a child yet until Bashir’s business picked up and they can get a place of their own. They stayed in his uncle’s house. It was part of the family house. They strolled into their apartment anytime they liked. The family was very nosy.
“There was a time Bashir and I were making out in the sitting room, and his uncle’s last wife barged in. I had told Bashir to either lock the door or we enter the room but he said I wasn’t spontaneous enough. My top was off. I had to use my hands to hide my breasts. She dropped what she came with, looked at me with disdain and then left. I was so angry but Bashir just laughed over it and waited for us to continue. I had to lock the door and close the curtains. Would you believe she was still by the window? I closed the window and the curtain.”
“With your bare chest?” Nkem asked. They all laughed.
“I used my top to cover my chest.”
“So, how is Bashir?” Nkem asked again.
“He has been fine. He has some contracts and is making money but he doesn’t want to leave his uncle’s house. He wants to make enough to buy a house. The uncle’s wife cooks for us, I don’t get to cook in the house. I complained but he said until we move to our house, it will remain like that.”
“Keep praying for him to get enough money to buy a house. At least you are still working.” Funke suggested.
They knew about Funke and Ebuka. Esther and Zainab didn’t know about pregnancy and abortion. It was Nkem’s turn. They wanted to know how far with Demian.
“He invited me to the US for Christmas.”
“What?” they all chorused. They fished for details.
Nkem told them what transpired and also added his visit to her in Abuja without disclosing his disease. She then told them how he facilitated her getting her international passport and then the visa.
“You are a hard girl, this guy has been patient with you. Why not give him a chance?” Funke asked.
“My mother advised me to accept his offer. I have many suitors in Abuja, but those ones can’t be trusted. Demian has been there for a long time now. I see how all of you are when you see or talk to your lovers. I don’t feel that way with Demian. I am excited but that’s all. I have more sibling love feelings for him. But I will allow this trip to decide for me.”
“Would you be staying with him? Are you ready to give him what he wants?” Esther asked.
“What does he want? He is a gentleman and wouldn’t want to pressurise me into something I am not into. I still want to keep myself. There is no hurry.”
“Please do. But money is good! You look so radiant. See your glowing skin, it didn’t change colour in that Abuja with the hot sun. Why won’t the guy want you to visit him? You are so beautiful. And you are losing your accent too,” Funke added.
“Uncle Tobi has been helping me. He buys me foodstuff whenever he travels. He drops it with my flatmate most time. I told you he stopped my food business and gave me the money I was making every month. He said I have a good reputation there and the chances they would retain me are high. I am so looking forward to it. I will work for two years and then travel for my Master’s degree. When I come back, I will get into another ministry or parastatal. A colleague in the office did it.”
Funke wasn’t comfortable with the conversation about uncle Tobi. He hardly ever mentioned Nkem. Why was he doing all this for her? She trusted Nkem. Since she had decided to visit Demian, it means she was considering a future with him. She liked Demian and Nkem’s relationship. She believed Nkem would fall in love soon enough and they will settle down. There was no backing down from Demian.
Author’s remark:
5 students have successfully registered for NECO GCE. I have received payments for one candidate and a half for another candidate. Outstanding is just 2 and a half payments to cover 3 candidates and it’s a wrap.
For all those who contributed, may God continue to bless and keep you. You will never lack. Help will always come your way. God bless you.
Tbc