MORE THAN A CARVING CHAPTER 16
MORE THAN A CARVING
CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 16
She freed himself from him. “I’ll go serve your dinner.” She said and left the room. He sighed and followed after her. She served his food and went back to her bedroom while Imisi settled on the dining to eat. When he was through he went into his room and the two didn’t see each other till the next evening. When they woke up the next morning Iwalade didn’t come out to make breakfast for him, she stayed in her room and waited for him to leave for work before she left her room. She had made up her mind to avoid him till he leaves that weekend. In the course of the day, Iwalade called Fullhouse but before she called she made up her mind not to throw the issue directly to him, in fact, she had planned to do it in such a way that Fullhouse will not suspect that his wife told her anything, she knew Fullhouse very well, he may not like the fact that Ireoluwa opened up to a third party but what can the girl do, she is still young and needs to seek counsel. Fullhouse picked the call and the two exchanged pleasantries. “Fullhouse, how far, I hope your wife is pregnant, you two should have work hard on that.” Iwalade teased. “Pregnant! Iwalade, why are you talking like this? You of all people should know better.” “How? I don’t get you.” “I mean you were there Iwalade, everything happened before your very eyes and you are talking about pregnancy.” “Haa…..see me see goodness, so because of what happened, you two will not make babies again, and I have not heard that before o.” She said grumblingly. “Ireoluwa is fragile, let me just let her be.” ‘You think it she had a marriage because of her age! A woman of 40 years can even have miscarriage; this has nothing to do with your wife’s age at all. Anybody can have a miscarriage.” “Iwalade I think, I should allow her finish schooling.” “Finish what; what did I hear you say. Ko jo, you better start work and get her pregnant ASAP. You and who.” She hissed. What Fullhouse just said, really pissed her off. In her mind she was like ‘finish school ko, finish school ni.’ “I’ll think about it.” He said. “Don’t think, act!” “I’ve heard you o…..” “Good, that’s why I love you dear cousin.” She smiled. “Don’t patronize me o, I did not promise anything, I only said I will think about it.”
“Fullhouse nau…..” She pleaded. “You are begging me now, as if I won’t be the one to shoulder everything when she’s pregnant again.” “Just get her pregnant first nau.” “Hmm….you that you are in Lagos.” “You don’t trust me ni, if you want me to come and stay with her till she delivers, I will do it. I’m only one call away.” “Hmmm, Iwalade. Anyway, I trust you sha.” “If you want me to relocate sef, I will relocate.” “I’ve heard you, like I said earlier, I will think about it.” ‘Fullhouse!” “What nau?” “Are we still on ‘thinking about it’ level?” She asked subtly. “Okay…okay, I’ve heard you. Come and be going. Byee…..love you.” He said and quickly discharged her. Iwalade smiled, her planned worked, Fullhouse didn’t suspect that Ireoluwa called her. She quickly dialed Ireoluwa’s number. “Hello ma.” “Hello dear, how are you doing?” “I’m fine ma. Have you spoken to him?” “Yes and guess what, he didn’t know you are the one who informed me.” “Wow, thank you ma.” “Yea, but you’ll still have to tell him afterwards, maybe when you are pregnant.” “Okay ma, I’ll do just that.” “I’ve done my bit; the rest is left to you. You are a woman; you should know his password and use it.” “I will try my best ma, thank you so….much.” ‘You are welcome. Enjoy the rest of your day.” “You too ma, bye….” She said and the line went off. On Thursday evening, when Imisi got back from work, he realized that his dinner has been served as usual, he was pissed off again and went to Iwalade’s room, and he stopped at the front door. “Iwalade, stop serving me dinner since you don’t want to see my face, then there’s no point in you cooking for me. I will only eat the food tonight because I hatewastage. Is that taken?” He said and didn’t get any reply, so he walked away from her door. “Imisi really have nerve o, so he can still talk to me boldly after what he said the other time. Is it because he is now the CEO or something?” Iwalade soliloquizzed and then hissed. By the way, deep down in her heart Iwalade liked Imisi’s bravery and manliness still. Imisi’s bravery is a turn on for her and she loves guys that know what they want and go for it, but in this case, that will never happen. “Imisi and I can never be an item. I will make sure he gets off my case.” She said in her mind. She remembered those words again that have been ringing in her head for days ‘kiss me. Iwalade kiss me.’ She quickly shook herself off it. She wished that part of her brain can be formatted. He went to the guest room, showered, put a casual wear and left the room for the dining; he ate his dinner and then returned to his room. He opened his laptop and treated two work related files and then checked the time, it was time to sleep. He picked his phone, his internet connection is always on, so he went through his messages and this time he didn’t get Iwalade’s message. Maybe she was pissed off by what he said; he thought and lay down to sleep. He prayed briefly and closed his eyes to sleep but his mind couldn’t get off Iwalade, she always fills his thought. “I’ll prove to you I’m a legitimate son of the Williams, we always get what we want.” He said and slept off. The next morning, which was Friday, Iwalade still locked herself in her room; Imisi eyed her door and left for work. In the course of the day, Mrs. Williams called Iwalade to thank her for her help. “Imisi said you are taking good care of him, I even stopped by at his office yesterday and he was looking great. He didn’t look like someone who ran away from home at all……” “Did you just say he ran away from home?” Iwalade said and the two of them laughed. “That’s what they call people like him nau.” Mrs. Williams said, she was still laughing. “You know he musn’t hear this right.” She said. “I dare not.” Mrs. Williams said. They talked about other things including Imisi’s father’s properties that they are still trying to get from his Uncles who have been managing them before now. They later ended the call and Iwalade opened her laptop and got back to work, she has a job to deliver that very day. Iwalade and Imisioluwa continued to play their hide and seek game, once Iwalade hears the sound of his car after she might have served his dinner, she will quickly run to her room and lock herself up. The two only talk on social media, and all they do is just greetings such as ‘good morning’ after he has left for work and ‘good evening, how was your day?’ when Imisi is back from work. Imisioluwa left the office and decided to go shopping, he went from one section to another picking things needed in the house. Then he got to a section where they sell ladies’ stuff, then he decided to get something for Iwalade, he knew he was looking for her trouble with what he bought but in his head he was like ‘I’m ready for it’ When he was through, he wheeled the shopping cart to the payment section and when he was through, he left the mall. He returned from work but to his surprise, he met Iwalade in the sitting room, relaxing on the couch, the TV was on but she was engrossed with her phone. “Wow!” He intentionally said that loud. “Welcome.” She said with a blank face. He replied her. “I got this for the house.” He said and she took the shopping bags from him. “Thanks, that’s thoughtful of you.” She said and left the sitting room. He went to the guest room and kept the gift she bought for her in a safe place. He showered and returned shortly and as usual, the table was set. Iwalade was also back in the sitting room. He settled down and ate and when he was done, he cleared the dishes and by the time he returned, Iwalade was nowhere to be found. She actually returned back to her shell. “Seriously.” He said at the top of his voice and Iwalade heard in her room. Imisi shrugged and since it was Friday night, he decided to have a TV time; after all, weekend has started. Some minutes later, Iwalade’s phone started ringing and it was Kayode, she picked the call. “I’m in front of your house.” “What!” She exclaimed and sat up immediately. “I mean it, please don’t keep me standing.” “What do you want?” “Do I need to want something before I pay you a visit?” He queried. “You should have informed me first that…….” “Iwalade, stop this dialogue, you are not writing script, just come out and open the gate.” He said and ended the call. She left her room and saw another necessary evil he was avoiding, Imisi was watching TV and smiling, he was watching an interesting program. Iwalade walked passed him to the door. “Where are you going?” He asked. “Someone is at the gate.” “By this time.” “Yea, he’s a friend anyway.” “Okay, I’ll excuse you then. I’ll be in the room.” He said and stood up but Iwalade stopped him, she had a second thought, Imisi’s presence might work for her. “You know what, stay, in fact, stay all through till he leaves.”
“Now you want to use me and then dump me when he leaves, right?” Imisioluwa questioned. “How do you know that am having a male visitor?” “That’s the reason why you asked me to stay nau; you want to use me to get rid of him.” “Whatever.” She eyed him, feigning seriousness. “Just wait here.” She said and then went out. She opened the gate and Kayode entered, she looked at his hands and realized that he has a shopping bag with him. “I hope those are not for me. I don’t eat palliatives.” She said. “You are not serious. Did you just call these palliatives?” He said, raising the shopping bag. “We both know you are doing all these for a reason.” “Think whatever you like.” He said and walked but stopped. “You bought another car?” He asked when he saw another car in the house. She didn’t reply him, so he decided not to press further ‘maybe she got a second car, anyway.’ He thought and walked passed her. “Where are you going, this one that you walk passed me as if you own the house?” She asked Kayode who was ahead of her but he ignored her and opened the front door. Kayode entered and saw that his friend actually has a guest. “No, this person is living here.” He said in his mind, judging by the way he was dressed; he was putting on a sleeveless top and denim short. “That explains the car.” He concluded in his mind. “Hi.” Kayode greeted. “Hi.” Imisioluwa replied. Iwalade entered and introduce them. He turned to Imisioluwa. “Imisi meet Kayode, my childhood friend.” Then he turned to Kayode. “Kayode meet my neighbourhood friend.” The two exchanged greetings and they all settled down. Kayode handed the bag to her. “I said I don’t collect palliatives.” “Be nice, you shouldn’t be doing this in the presence of your neighbourhood friend.” Kayode said but Imisi was smart enough to detect the sarcasm in his tone so he had to do a clapback. “Iwalade don’t you think it’s rude to reject palliatives from a childhood friend.” He said and flashed Kayode a feigned smile. Kayode didn’t reply him. Iwalade sensed what was going on; she was already regretting that she allowed Imisioluwa stay back in the sitting room. She collected the shopping bag from Kayode and left the sitting room. She returned with a glass of juice and handed it to Kayode.“Thank you but this won’t do. I plan on taking dinner at your place.” He stated and Iwalade rolled her eyes and she wished she could cuss at him for being a pain in the neck. “I don’t have any left over dinner. Do you even tell me you are coming?” Iwalade queried him. “Don’t stress yourself girlfriend, at least the last time I was here, I did the cooking. So don’t worry, I’ll fix it.” He said, stood up and walked to the kitchen. Iwalade and Imisi’s eyes met but she quickly look away and went after Kayode who was already in the kitchen. By the time she entered, Kayode has already opened the freezer, scanning through. “Hmm…..” He was still humming but she cut in. “Kayode, sincerely all these your ‘barging in on me’ needs to stop.” Iwalade quoted with her fingers. “You should learn to respect my privacy.” She emphasized. “Oh, is it because of that small boy.” “Come off it, what do you mean by that?” “Nothing, by the way, I know you rarely notice if a guy is head over heels in love with you, so be careful with that guy out there.” “Can you please mind your business?” “Don’t take offence; I’m just trying to let you know, so you can put him in his place. By the way, what’s he doing here?” Kayode asked. “Same thing you are doing here.” “No, it’s not the same. I am visiting but that guy is living here.” “He is not; he is just staying for a while. Wait, why am I even answering you? Do I owe you any explanation?” “Why are you being defensive, you know I know you very well for you to act like this only means one thing.” “Means what? You know what, keep your opinion to yourself, just do whatever you want to do and leave.” She said and left the kitchen angrily and went back to the sitting room. Imisioluwa was still in the sitting room, so she sat down beside him. He smiled at her. “What!” Iwalade eyed him. “Just calm down.” He said and shifted his gaze back to the TV; he was watching an American action movie, so she joined him even though her mind was not in the film. She was thinking about what Kayode said in the kitchen. Kayode later came out and brought the food he prepared to the dining and then went back to the kitchen, Imisi and Iwalade looked at each other and then faced the TV again. Then he came out with a glass jug that contained the chapman that Iwaladespecifically made for Imisi, she planned on serving him the drink the next day before he leaves for his house. Kayode made to settle down but Iwalade screamed out his name. “Kayode, return that chapman now!” “I want to use it to step down my food nau…..” “And I said no!” “Iwalade calm down, you are shouting.” Kayode said. “If you want me to calm down then return that drink and fix yourself another one.” “I know you enjoy sharing, what made this an exception.” He asked suspiciously. “Nothing.” “Nothing, it’s like you specially made this for someone.” “Just return it.” She snapped at him and he returned it. Imisi didn’t say a word; he was just looking at their drama. Kayode returned and settled down to eat. “You didn’t take any drink?” Iwalade asked him. “I’ll pass.” He said and continued with the food he was eating. He purposely did that, he wants Iwalade to feel bad and she actually felt bad. “Let me go get you a drink.” She said. “Don’t bother.” “Kayode nau, try and be considerate nau.” “This is me being considerate, I will take water.” He said and gulped the glass of water on the table and continued eating. Iwalade sighed and gave up; she sat on the dining with him and watched him eat. He finished eating and stood up to pack. “Don’t worry, I’ll clear the plate.” Iwalade offered. “No, I’ll clear it.” He insisted, so she allowed him. Iwalade knew he was angry and she wished she allowed him take the chapman. Kayode came out of the kitchen when he was through and told her he was leaving, she then decided to see him off, Imisioluwa bade him goodbye. Iwalade took the gate key and the two left. “Are you still angry with me?” She said as they walk towards the gate. “I’m not angry with you.” He replied and stopped in his tracks and held her hands. “I thought you didn’t move on because you are still in love with me.” Kayode said softly. “You got it wrong Kay; the reason why I didn’t move on is because I haven’t met the right man and not because I’m still in love with you.” Iwalade corrected him. “So, have you met him now?” “I haven’t.” She said and he blew out a relief air. They continued walking, she opened the gate for him, she wanted to step out at least to walk him to his car that
was parked outside but he freed her. “Just lock the gate and go back in,” He said and she nodded. “Goodnight.” “Goodnight, drive safe.” She said. He gave her a peck on the cheek and stepped outside the gate. Iwalade went back inside and bumped into Imisioluwa who was waiting by the door. “You startled me,” She said and shut the door behind her. “Why are you even standing here?” She said and walked pass Imisioluwa but he took her right hand and turned her to face him. He held her head in his palms and brought her face close to his before she could say anything, he had already lock lips with her. He stopped to check out her reaction, he kissed her again and this time she responded and kissed him back. The kiss was hot and passionate, the whole of their body was heated up and then, they stopped. “This must not happen again Imisi.” Iwalade warned. “Why?” “Nike is leaving tomorrow.” “I know, Mum told me. What has that got to do with the kiss?” He questioned. “Imisioluwa, we can never be an item.” “Really, but you prepared my favourite drink and screamed when your childhood friend wanted to drink it.” “You can’t be so sure that I made it for you.” “Stop deceiving yourself, will you?” “I’m trying to be logical here and you are talking about deceit.” “Logical! Can one be logical with things pertaining to the heart, come of it Iwalade.” “I’m older.” “And I’m not complaining. I want this, Iwalade, I want us.” “What’s your genotype?” “AA.” Imisi replied. “Okay.” She said and turned to leave but he grabbed her by the arm. “Where are you going? Why did you ask for my genotype?” Imisioluwa asked. “I just want to know, simple.” “Won’t you tell me yours?” “I’m AS.” “Then we are good, I’m your perfect match. You know you can only marry AA,you can’t marry AS or SS.” He pointed out. “True but that does not still make us a perfect match plus I’ll still need a medical report to confirm that.” “Good, then take me to any lab of your choice to confirm.” He said confidently. “Hello….I wasn’t referring to you. The only person I’m taking to the lab is the man I want to marry, so bounce.” She scoffed. “We’ll see to that.” He said confidently. Iwalade bowed her head; she sighed and then looked up to face him again. “Imisioluwa, what will your Mum Say?” “This is my life and my happiness comes first.” He said and took her hand and led her back to the couch, the two of them sat together side by side. “Imisi, if we can stay apart for a while, you will get over this feeling.” “I can’t, what I feel for you is real.” He said and held her hands, caressing it tenderly. “Imisi……” “I’m not saying we should start anything now.” “Imisi, we shouldn’t be doing this, I still believe this feeling of yours can be curbed.” “So you don’t feel anything for me!” “I don’t know I just feel needed by you.” “Feel needed! I don’t get you.” “I don’t know too. Anyway, I’ll still pray about it. I just have this feeling that I’m needed for something.” “You are doing that already Iwalade and that even endeared me more to you.” Imisioluwa said. “Maybe we should give each other space then.” “I won’t let that happen.” “Sincerely, love affairs should be the least of our problem right now. Imisi, you need serious prayers, I’m feeling in my spirit that something is still not right. I hope you know your father’s death is not ordinary.” “I know.” “I’m scared for you Imisi.” She said. Imisi stood up, walking towards the guest room, and then he stopped in his tracks and looked back. Iwalade who was inititially looking at his retrieving figure as he walks gazed at him, wondering why he stopped walking. “Iwalade!” He called out and she looked up from where she was sitting and their eyes met. “Iwalade for you to be thinking so much about all these means you already see me in your future.” “Imisi………” She drawled. “I’m right; you don’t need to deny it.” “We need serious prayers.” “Then let’s start praying, because I don’t want to die Iwa, you are worth living for and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.” “Imisi, I am more concern about your life, marriage aside.” “Fine, I know you hate to hear that.” He said sarcastically and walked away while Iwalade sighed. ******* The next morning which was Saturday, Nike packed all her things and left the Williams’ house. She was able to secure a place to stay, thanks to her boss. Mrs. Williams was not happy seeing her move out either but her hands were tied, her family has to come first. She gave her a lot of things when she was leaving; she even gave her gold jewelry as a parting gift. Nike was grateful for everything. Imisi and Iwalade took breakfast that morning they both sat on the dining enjoying their meals of bread and moinmoin. They’ve not really been talking since the previous night. “When are you leaving, at least, you now have the house to yourself?” She said trying to make her words sound light. Imisi was really enjoying his food and did not even bother to answer her question. “Imisi…..” She said and then kept quiet. They were not really in that bubble since the previous night and Imisi did not like that for them, so he had to come up with a plan. “Let’s go out to have fun.” “We are not dating.” She tackled. “I never said it’s a date, by the way, you owe me, remember.” “Yea, I think I remember the hangout I missed the other time.” “You missed or you ditched me.” He corrected. “Whatever.” She said and they both laughed. “At last.” He said. “What!” “You got lively again.” “I should be the one saying that.” She said and they laughed some more.“Still waiting for my answer……” Imisioluwa said stressing his word. “Fine, let’s hang out.” Iwalade finally accepted. “Good. When I return, I’ll pick my bag and off to my house.” He said happily. “Alright.” The two packed their plates to the kitchen when they were done eating and went back to their respective room to change as they prepare to go out. That Saturday was one of Iwalade’s best weekends outing in a long time, Iwalade who had been busy with work lately took the opportunity to unwind. The two had a great time together; they were so carried away with the fun that they didn’t get back home until late in the night. Everyone who saw them together thought they were real couple as the two look perfect for each other. Imisioluwa’s tall height complimented Iwalade’s average height and their matching chocolate skin tone. Imisi made sure Iwalade enjoyed every bit of that moment and he was so happy to have made that weekend fun for her, it’s always good to see Iwalade laugh heartily and he has promised himself never to make her sad. They returned from their outing and landed at Iwalade’s place. Imisioluwa went straight to the guest room to start pack his things. He wheeled out his leather box and met with Iwalade who was waiting for him in the sitting room. She stood up immediately he came out. “I’ll miss you.” He said soberly. “Hello……your house is just down the street.” Iwalade reminded him. “Wrong answer.” “But that’s the truth, this one that you are making a big deal out of it.” “Iwalade, I said I’ll miss you.” He repeated. “Fine, I’ll miss you too, my one week housemate.” She said. Imisioluwa left the bag and opened his arms wide. She knew what to do but she didn’t, so he walked up to her and hugged her. “I’m kissing you now.” He said and she swallowed. “Imisi, we shouldn’t be doing….” She was still trying to make excuses but he took her lips and she closed her eyes as they both kiss each other. He released her and kissed her on the forehead. They both left the house in his car, Iwalade decided to follow him home, since she was the one who took him out of the house. Mrs. Williams was so happy to see his son after a week, she really missed him, and she hugged him and apologized to him over again. She told him she was sorry for not doing the needful on time and Imisi told her it’s fine that he has forgiven her. Mrs. Williams also thanked Iwalade for her help, and then she saw her off as Imisi went upstairs to his room. Immediately Iwalade entered the house, she felt that emptiness, thankfully Baba Bamo is resuming on Sunday evening, which is the next day. She entered her roomand lay on her bed. “I’m missing you already Imisi.” She soliloquized, then her phone rang, it was a video call from Imisoluwa, thankfully her data was on. She picked it and his handsome cute face came up. “You’re home.” He said. “Yes.” “I’m feeling lonely.” “Mummy is there with you.” She said pretending as if she doesn’t understand the loneliness he was talking about. “You know what I mean.” He said and she smiled. “I had fun today, all thanks to you.” She said still smiling. “I’m glad you do.” He smiled back. The two were on phone all through until Iwalade started feeling sleepy, they said their goodnights and he disconnected.
“Fullhouse nau…..” She pleaded. “You are begging me now, as if I won’t be the one to shoulder everything when she’s pregnant again.” “Just get her pregnant first nau.” “Hmm….you that you are in Lagos.” “You don’t trust me ni, if you want me to come and stay with her till she delivers, I will do it. I’m only one call away.” “Hmmm, Iwalade. Anyway, I trust you sha.” “If you want me to relocate sef, I will relocate.” “I’ve heard you, like I said earlier, I will think about it.” ‘Fullhouse!” “What nau?” “Are we still on ‘thinking about it’ level?” She asked subtly. “Okay…okay, I’ve heard you. Come and be going. Byee…..love you.” He said and quickly discharged her. Iwalade smiled, her planned worked, Fullhouse didn’t suspect that Ireoluwa called her. She quickly dialed Ireoluwa’s number. “Hello ma.” “Hello dear, how are you doing?” “I’m fine ma. Have you spoken to him?” “Yes and guess what, he didn’t know you are the one who informed me.” “Wow, thank you ma.” “Yea, but you’ll still have to tell him afterwards, maybe when you are pregnant.” “Okay ma, I’ll do just that.” “I’ve done my bit; the rest is left to you. You are a woman; you should know his password and use it.” “I will try my best ma, thank you so….much.” ‘You are welcome. Enjoy the rest of your day.” “You too ma, bye….” She said and the line went off. On Thursday evening, when Imisi got back from work, he realized that his dinner has been served as usual, he was pissed off again and went to Iwalade’s room, and he stopped at the front door. “Iwalade, stop serving me dinner since you don’t want to see my face, then there’s no point in you cooking for me. I will only eat the food tonight because I hatewastage. Is that taken?” He said and didn’t get any reply, so he walked away from her door. “Imisi really have nerve o, so he can still talk to me boldly after what he said the other time. Is it because he is now the CEO or something?” Iwalade soliloquizzed and then hissed. By the way, deep down in her heart Iwalade liked Imisi’s bravery and manliness still. Imisi’s bravery is a turn on for her and she loves guys that know what they want and go for it, but in this case, that will never happen. “Imisi and I can never be an item. I will make sure he gets off my case.” She said in her mind. She remembered those words again that have been ringing in her head for days ‘kiss me. Iwalade kiss me.’ She quickly shook herself off it. She wished that part of her brain can be formatted. He went to the guest room, showered, put a casual wear and left the room for the dining; he ate his dinner and then returned to his room. He opened his laptop and treated two work related files and then checked the time, it was time to sleep. He picked his phone, his internet connection is always on, so he went through his messages and this time he didn’t get Iwalade’s message. Maybe she was pissed off by what he said; he thought and lay down to sleep. He prayed briefly and closed his eyes to sleep but his mind couldn’t get off Iwalade, she always fills his thought. “I’ll prove to you I’m a legitimate son of the Williams, we always get what we want.” He said and slept off. The next morning, which was Friday, Iwalade still locked herself in her room; Imisi eyed her door and left for work. In the course of the day, Mrs. Williams called Iwalade to thank her for her help. “Imisi said you are taking good care of him, I even stopped by at his office yesterday and he was looking great. He didn’t look like someone who ran away from home at all……” “Did you just say he ran away from home?” Iwalade said and the two of them laughed. “That’s what they call people like him nau.” Mrs. Williams said, she was still laughing. “You know he musn’t hear this right.” She said. “I dare not.” Mrs. Williams said. They talked about other things including Imisi’s father’s properties that they are still trying to get from his Uncles who have been managing them before now. They later ended the call and Iwalade opened her laptop and got back to work, she has a job to deliver that very day. Iwalade and Imisioluwa continued to play their hide and seek game, once Iwalade hears the sound of his car after she might have served his dinner, she will quickly run to her room and lock herself up. The two only talk on social media, and all they do is just greetings such as ‘good morning’ after he has left for work and ‘good evening, how was your day?’ when Imisi is back from work. Imisioluwa left the office and decided to go shopping, he went from one section to another picking things needed in the house. Then he got to a section where they sell ladies’ stuff, then he decided to get something for Iwalade, he knew he was looking for her trouble with what he bought but in his head he was like ‘I’m ready for it’ When he was through, he wheeled the shopping cart to the payment section and when he was through, he left the mall. He returned from work but to his surprise, he met Iwalade in the sitting room, relaxing on the couch, the TV was on but she was engrossed with her phone. “Wow!” He intentionally said that loud. “Welcome.” She said with a blank face. He replied her. “I got this for the house.” He said and she took the shopping bags from him. “Thanks, that’s thoughtful of you.” She said and left the sitting room. He went to the guest room and kept the gift she bought for her in a safe place. He showered and returned shortly and as usual, the table was set. Iwalade was also back in the sitting room. He settled down and ate and when he was done, he cleared the dishes and by the time he returned, Iwalade was nowhere to be found. She actually returned back to her shell. “Seriously.” He said at the top of his voice and Iwalade heard in her room. Imisi shrugged and since it was Friday night, he decided to have a TV time; after all, weekend has started. Some minutes later, Iwalade’s phone started ringing and it was Kayode, she picked the call. “I’m in front of your house.” “What!” She exclaimed and sat up immediately. “I mean it, please don’t keep me standing.” “What do you want?” “Do I need to want something before I pay you a visit?” He queried. “You should have informed me first that…….” “Iwalade, stop this dialogue, you are not writing script, just come out and open the gate.” He said and ended the call. She left her room and saw another necessary evil he was avoiding, Imisi was watching TV and smiling, he was watching an interesting program. Iwalade walked passed him to the door. “Where are you going?” He asked. “Someone is at the gate.” “By this time.” “Yea, he’s a friend anyway.” “Okay, I’ll excuse you then. I’ll be in the room.” He said and stood up but Iwalade stopped him, she had a second thought, Imisi’s presence might work for her. “You know what, stay, in fact, stay all through till he leaves.”
“Now you want to use me and then dump me when he leaves, right?” Imisioluwa questioned. “How do you know that am having a male visitor?” “That’s the reason why you asked me to stay nau; you want to use me to get rid of him.” “Whatever.” She eyed him, feigning seriousness. “Just wait here.” She said and then went out. She opened the gate and Kayode entered, she looked at his hands and realized that he has a shopping bag with him. “I hope those are not for me. I don’t eat palliatives.” She said. “You are not serious. Did you just call these palliatives?” He said, raising the shopping bag. “We both know you are doing all these for a reason.” “Think whatever you like.” He said and walked but stopped. “You bought another car?” He asked when he saw another car in the house. She didn’t reply him, so he decided not to press further ‘maybe she got a second car, anyway.’ He thought and walked passed her. “Where are you going, this one that you walk passed me as if you own the house?” She asked Kayode who was ahead of her but he ignored her and opened the front door. Kayode entered and saw that his friend actually has a guest. “No, this person is living here.” He said in his mind, judging by the way he was dressed; he was putting on a sleeveless top and denim short. “That explains the car.” He concluded in his mind. “Hi.” Kayode greeted. “Hi.” Imisioluwa replied. Iwalade entered and introduce them. He turned to Imisioluwa. “Imisi meet Kayode, my childhood friend.” Then he turned to Kayode. “Kayode meet my neighbourhood friend.” The two exchanged greetings and they all settled down. Kayode handed the bag to her. “I said I don’t collect palliatives.” “Be nice, you shouldn’t be doing this in the presence of your neighbourhood friend.” Kayode said but Imisi was smart enough to detect the sarcasm in his tone so he had to do a clapback. “Iwalade don’t you think it’s rude to reject palliatives from a childhood friend.” He said and flashed Kayode a feigned smile. Kayode didn’t reply him. Iwalade sensed what was going on; she was already regretting that she allowed Imisioluwa stay back in the sitting room. She collected the shopping bag from Kayode and left the sitting room. She returned with a glass of juice and handed it to Kayode.“Thank you but this won’t do. I plan on taking dinner at your place.” He stated and Iwalade rolled her eyes and she wished she could cuss at him for being a pain in the neck. “I don’t have any left over dinner. Do you even tell me you are coming?” Iwalade queried him. “Don’t stress yourself girlfriend, at least the last time I was here, I did the cooking. So don’t worry, I’ll fix it.” He said, stood up and walked to the kitchen. Iwalade and Imisi’s eyes met but she quickly look away and went after Kayode who was already in the kitchen. By the time she entered, Kayode has already opened the freezer, scanning through. “Hmm…..” He was still humming but she cut in. “Kayode, sincerely all these your ‘barging in on me’ needs to stop.” Iwalade quoted with her fingers. “You should learn to respect my privacy.” She emphasized. “Oh, is it because of that small boy.” “Come off it, what do you mean by that?” “Nothing, by the way, I know you rarely notice if a guy is head over heels in love with you, so be careful with that guy out there.” “Can you please mind your business?” “Don’t take offence; I’m just trying to let you know, so you can put him in his place. By the way, what’s he doing here?” Kayode asked. “Same thing you are doing here.” “No, it’s not the same. I am visiting but that guy is living here.” “He is not; he is just staying for a while. Wait, why am I even answering you? Do I owe you any explanation?” “Why are you being defensive, you know I know you very well for you to act like this only means one thing.” “Means what? You know what, keep your opinion to yourself, just do whatever you want to do and leave.” She said and left the kitchen angrily and went back to the sitting room. Imisioluwa was still in the sitting room, so she sat down beside him. He smiled at her. “What!” Iwalade eyed him. “Just calm down.” He said and shifted his gaze back to the TV; he was watching an American action movie, so she joined him even though her mind was not in the film. She was thinking about what Kayode said in the kitchen. Kayode later came out and brought the food he prepared to the dining and then went back to the kitchen, Imisi and Iwalade looked at each other and then faced the TV again. Then he came out with a glass jug that contained the chapman that Iwaladespecific
was parked outside but he freed her. “Just lock the gate and go back in,” He said and she nodded. “Goodnight.” “Goodnight, drive safe.” She said. He gave her a peck on the cheek and stepped outside the gate. Iwalade went back inside and bumped into Imisioluwa who was waiting by the door. “You startled me,” She said and shut the door behind her. “Why are you even standing here?” She said and walked pass Imisioluwa but he took her right hand and turned her to face him. He held her head in his palms and brought her face close to his before she could say anything, he had already lock lips with her. He stopped to check out her reaction, he kissed her again and this time she responded and kissed him back. The kiss was hot and passionate, the whole of their body was heated up and then, they stopped. “This must not happen again Imisi.” Iwalade warned. “Why?” “Nike is leaving tomorrow.” “I know, Mum told me. What has that got to do with the kiss?” He questioned. “Imisioluwa, we can never be an item.” “Really, but you prepared my favourite drink and screamed when your childhood friend wanted to drink it.” “You can’t be so sure that I made it for you.” “Stop deceiving yourself, will you?” “I’m trying to be logical here and you are talking about deceit.” “Logical! Can one be logical with things pertaining to the heart, come of it Iwalade.” “I’m older.” “And I’m not complaining. I want this, Iwalade, I want us.” “What’s your genotype?” “AA.” Imisi replied. “Okay.” She said and turned to leave but he grabbed her by the arm. “Where are you going? Why did you ask for my genotype?” Imisioluwa asked. “I just want to know, simple.” “Won’t you tell me yours?” “I’m AS.” “Then we are good, I’m your perfect match. You know you can only marry AA,you can’t marry AS or SS.” He pointed out. “True but that does not still make us a perfect match plus I’ll still need a medical report to confirm that.” “Good, then take me to any lab of your choice to confirm.” He said confidently. “Hello….I wasn’t referring to you. The only person I’m taking to the lab is the man I want to marry, so bounce.” She scoffed. “We’ll see to that.” He said confidently. Iwalade bowed her head; she sighed and then looked up to face him again. “Imisioluwa, what will your Mum Say?” “This is my life and my happiness comes first.” He said and took her hand and led her back to the couch, the two of them sat together side by side. “Imisi, if we can stay apart for a while, you will get over this feeling.” “I can’t, what I feel for you is real.” He said and held her hands, caressing it tenderly. “Imisi……” “I’m not saying we should start anything now.” “Imisi, we shouldn’t be doing this, I still believe this feeling of yours can be curbed.” “So you don’t feel anything for me!” “I don’t know I just feel needed by you.” “Feel needed! I don’t get you.” “I don’t know too. Anyway, I’ll still pray about it. I just have this feeling that I’m needed for something.” “You are doing that already Iwalade and that even endeared me more to you.” Imisioluwa said. “Maybe we should give each other space then.” “I won’t let that happen.” “Sincerely, love affairs should be the least of our problem right now. Imisi, you need serious prayers, I’m feeling in my spirit that something is still not right. I hope you know your father’s death is not ordinary.” “I know.” “I’m scared for you Imisi.” She said. Imisi stood up, walking towards the guest room, and then he stopped in his tracks and looked back. Iwalade who was inititially looking at his retrieving figure as he walks gazed at him, wondering why he stopped walking. “Iwalade!” He called out and she looked up from where she was sitting and their eyes met. “Iwalade for you to be thinking so much about all these means you already see me in your future.” “Imisi………” She drawled. “I’m right; you don’t need to deny it.” “We need serious prayers.” “Then let’s start praying, because I don’t want to die Iwa, you are worth living for and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.” “Imisi, I am more concern about your life, marriage aside.” “Fine, I know you hate to hear that.” He said sarcastically and walked away while Iwalade sighed. ******* The next morning which was Saturday, Nike packed all her things and left the Williams’ house. She was able to secure a place to stay, thanks to her boss. Mrs. Williams was not happy seeing her move out either but her hands were tied, her family has to come first. She gave her a lot of things when she was leaving; she even gave her gold jewelry as a parting gift. Nike was grateful for everything. Imisi and Iwalade took breakfast that morning they both sat on the dining enjoying their meals of bread and moinmoin. They’ve not really been talking since the previous night. “When are you leaving, at least, you now have the house to yourself?” She said trying to make her words sound light. Imisi was really enjoying his food and did not even bother to answer her question. “Imisi…..” She said and then kept quiet. They were not really in that bubble since the previous night and Imisi did not like that for them, so he had to come up with a plan. “Let’s go out to have fun.” “We are not dating.” She tackled. “I never said it’s a date, by the way, you owe me, remember.” “Yea, I think I remember the hangout I missed the other time.” “You missed or you ditched me.” He corrected. “Whatever.” She said and they both laughed. “At last.” He said. “What!” “You got lively again.” “I should be the one saying that.” She said and they laughed some more.“Still waiting for my answer……” Imisioluwa said stressing his word. “Fine, let’s hang out.” Iwalade finally accepted. “Good. When I return, I’ll pick my bag and off to my house.” He said happily. “Alright.” The two packed their plates to the kitchen when they were done eating and went back to their respective room to change as they prepare to go out. That Saturday was one of Iwalade’s best weekends outing in a long time, Iwalade who had been busy with work lately took the opportunity to unwind. The two had a great time together; they were so carried away with the fun that they didn’t get back home until late in the night. Everyone who saw them together thought they were real couple as the two look perfect for each other. Imisioluwa’s tall height complimented Iwalade’s average height and their matching chocolate skin tone. Imisi made sure Iwalade enjoyed every bit of that moment and he was so happy to have made that weekend fun for her, it’s always good to see Iwalade laugh heartily and he has promised himself never to make her sad. They returned from their outing and landed at Iwalade’s place. Imisioluwa went straight to the guest room to start pack his things. He wheeled out his leather box and met with Iwalade who was waiting for him in the sitting room. She stood up immediately he came out. “I’ll miss you.” He said soberly. “Hello……your house is just down the street.” Iwalade reminded him. “Wrong answer.” “But that’s the truth, this one that you are making a big deal out of it.” “Iwalade, I said I’ll miss you.” He repeated. “Fine, I’ll miss you too, my one week housemate.” She said. Imisioluwa left the bag and opened his arms wide. She knew what to do but she didn’t, so he walked up to her and hugged her. “I’m kissing you now.” He said and she swallowed. “Imisi, we shouldn’t be doing….” She was still trying to make excuses but he took her lips and she closed her eyes as they both kiss each other. He released her and kissed her on the forehead. They both left the house in his car, Iwalade decided to follow him home, since she was the one who took him out of the house. Mrs. Williams was so happy to see his son after a week, she really missed him, and she hugged him and apologized to him over again. She told him she was sorry for not doing the needful on time and Imisi told her it’s fine that he has forgiven her. Mrs. Williams also thanked Iwalade for her help, and then she saw her off as Imisi went upstairs to his room. Immediately Iwalade entered the house, she felt that emptiness, thankfully Baba Bamo is resuming on Sunday evening, which is the next day. She entered her roomand lay on her bed. “I’m missing you already Imisi.” She soliloquized, then her phone rang, it was a video call from Imisoluwa, thankfully her data was on. She picked it and his handsome cute face came up. “You’re home.” He said. “Yes.” “I’m feeling lonely.” “Mummy is there with you.” She said pretending as if she doesn’t understand the loneliness he was talking about. “You know what I mean.” He said and she smiled. “I had fun today, all thanks to you.” She said still smiling. “I’m glad you do.” He smiled back. The two were on phone all through until Iwalade started feeling sleepy, they said their goodnights and he disconnected.
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