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Author: Peotic Bane
Love is a very curious thing. The way it works cannot be understood as it is no respecter of age, race, status or societal norms. One can find it anywhere, in anything, in anyone, especially when one least expects it.
Eighteen year old Kunle Adejare sat on the oversized sofa in his father’s gigantic office, his face to the TV and his back to his father who was having a discussion with his secretary. The TV screen was showing a live news on AlJazeera. The width of the office tends to suffocate Kunle who always wondered the need for spaces when they’re barely used. His father, Mr Adejare owns a real estate company in Lekki and their family has several estates across Lagos Island. One doesn’t need to be told that they’re a wealthy family. The sound from the TV and the voices of both Kunle’s father drowned in the background as Kunle continued to draw in his note pad.
Lately, he had been drawing this very beautiful lady who has a dimpled face, full lips, sharp nose, beautiful smile and a chubby build. He had been so obsessed with drawing this particular lady to the point that he’s been frustrated. Every road led to her, every action of his pen on paper but to make things much worse, Kunle has never met anyone like her in real life, he had never seen that beautiful face on a person. The closest he has ever been to visualizing her was in his head, it was as if that face was his latest object of fantasy.
“Son.” The deep voice of Mr Adejare brought Kunle back to reality. When he turned to look at his father, he realized the secretary was no longer there and it was just the two of them. Kunle was a splitting image of the man, both were 6ft tall, dark skinned, handsome and athletic except Mr Adejare was already sporting a big belly as he has started to lose his youthfulness. The man was in his late forties and his hair was gradually greying. But that has nothing on his good looks, he could still bag any woman he wanted.
“Yes, dad.” He rose to his feet and walked to his father’s table which was ladened with files and magazines. He pulled himself a chair from across him, wondering if he could ever wrap his head around his father’s line of work.
“I had a discussion earlier with your mother. We want to know where you’d like to study. Here in Nigeria or abroad?” The question wasn’t exactly what Kunle expected, it should have been what he’d like to study and not where he’d like to study because deep down, all Kunle wanted was to draw.
“I’d like to study art, sir.” Kunle decided to push this button for once. He kept his gaze on the table because he knew what would come next.
“How many times have I told you that you’d carry on my name and legacy? You’re my only son, my only child at that. It’s your duty to fill my shoes. I thought we agreed that we’d give you two years after high school to explore your interest in art and then after you’d do whatever your mother and I wished for?” That was infact the truth, when Kunle graduated high school two years before, he wanted desperately to build on his drawing skills but his parents told him that was impossible and they made a deal to give him two years to develop a skill they don’t expect him to ever use.
“But dad, I have no interest in real estate. I want to draw. I want to paint. I want to express myself and educated people through my art.”
“Listen to me, art is not a career. Most people who do it are lunatics. My own son won’t be considered a lunatic or you also want to end up like that Van Gogh guy?”
“But his works are still very much respected today and….” A loud bang on the table shut Kunle up. Mr Adejare had landed his fist on the table in anger.
“We’re no longer going to debate on this. You’re either going to study something that’ll give you a ground in real estate or I’m going to disown you.” The words landed squarely on Kunle’s chiseled face. His father has never spoken so angrily before and deep in his heart Kunle felt that he has to start warming up to the idea of filling his father’s shoes, maybe it is the right thing for every child to do.
“We’ll be having a new client for dinner tonight, make sure you’re well dressed and take that look of disapproval off your face, son. You know all I do, I do for you.” Kunle listened as his father grabbed his coat at slipped into it. Kunle knew this new client has to be a big fish for his father to invite them home to dinner. It was his father’s way to get familiar with his clients and juice them good. His father would always say “If you make your clients feel at home, they will come back to your house with their friend.”
He followed Mr Adejare to the parking garage, replaying the scene of their previous conversation in his head.
“I have to meet up with several clients before dinner, Jude will drive you home.” Mr Adejare patted his son’s back as he stepped into his car. Kunle followed Jude, one of the family’s driver to another car for the drive home.
*****************************************************
The drive home was extremely quiet. Kunle who’d usually initiate conversations with the drivers was just so out of it. From where he sat in the passenger’s seat, he stared out of the car window to look at the busy road. Everyone was going about their daily businesses, different people, different lives. “Does everyone of these people have others breathing down their necks? Do they have shoes to fill? Or was it just him?” Kunle thought to himself.
“Oga Kunle, hope no problem?” Jude asked from the driver’s seat.
“No, sir. Everything is fine.”
“You sure? You no talk anything since we commot Oga office.”
“Yes, sir.” Kunle managed a smile. “I’m just tired.”
“Oh, okay.” The rest of the trip home continued in deafening silence. When they got to the Adejare’s private estate in Ikoyi, the gateman, Sanusi bared his kolanut stained teeth as he waved to greet Kunle. Kunle waved back and smiled too. If anything, his parents taught him to be respectful and kind to everyone irrespective of their status.
Mrs Adejare and Mama were watching a TV show when Kunle arrived the very spacious living room.
“Hi darling.” Mrs Adejare called sweetly at Kunle. She was dressed in a short black gown that hugged her petite frame like a second skin, her light skin glowed under the golden chandelier in the center of the room. Despite being in her mid forties, she was the most beautiful woman Kunle has ever seen.
“Lakunle dear, how are you?” Mama chipped in. The older woman in mid sixties smiled. Unlike his mother, Mama was dark skinned too and on the bigger side.
Mama was not exactly a member of the Adejares. Infact, she was his own mother’s nanny. She had a very short and terribly sad marriage. Her husband died shortly after they wedded and left her with no child to remember him by. The heartbreak was too much for Mama, when she was employed by Mrs Adejare’s parents, she discovered her new fond love for their little girl, Funke. So she devoted all her time to her. She continued to stay with the family even after Funke got married, a year later, both of Funke’s parents died in a car crash and all she had was Mama, that’s how Mama became the Grandma Kunle never had.
“I’m good, how are my beautiful girls doing?” Kunle was finally happy since the incident from earlier. He proceeded to hug both his mother and Mama.
“Fine, did your father tell you about dinner?” His mother said.
“He did, I better go get ready.”
“It’s 5pm dear, dinner is not until 7pm.” Said Mama. Kunle needed time to clear his head, he just had to come up with the perfect excuse.”
“Oh yes, I just need to pick a nice outfit and shave this.” He pointed at the stubble on his chin.
“It looks good on you.” His mother teased but Kunle shook his head in feigned annoyance. “I better go.” He was sprinting to the stairs before they could convince him otherwise.
He unlocked the door to his room but stood in the doorway to examine his haven. A large painting he had recently made of the woman he so much fantasizes about was hanging above his table and all over the walls were sheets he had taped that contained drawings of her. He finally stepped into the room and shut the door behind him. He laid in his bed, still looking around the room. His father was probably right, it must be lunacy to obsess over someone you’ve never seen, so much that you see them in everything.
“I think it’s time I stopped this crazy dream of painting and become a real man.” He said to himself. Resigned, he got up and took every drawing off his wall, folded and hid them all away in his drawer but he couldn’t bring himself to hide the beautiful painting. That, he would keep and show to the world someday.
Kunle undressed and got into his bathroom to shower, he was still very unhappy but there was nothing he could do about it. When he got out if the shower and dried, he rummaged through his closet until he finally decided to settle for a purple agbada and a pair of matching trousers, he was certain his father would be impressed. He was half hoping the client would bring along their own children because he hated usually being the only young one at the table.
By the time he got dressed, it was already 6:50pm. Kunle sprayed a nice amount of perfume and exited his room.
He could hear his father’s hearty laugh from the top of the stairs, his father was usually loud whenever he was trying to make an impression. But his mother was always so soft and sweet. His parents were from different worlds, his father unlike his mother came from penury, he was very fortunate that a wealthy lady fell in love with him and he was also wise to put the wealth to good use. Thanks to his mother, his father is who he is today.
Kunle entered the living room in style but stopped halfway when he saw his family walking towards the dinning area.
“Good evening, dad.” He greeted with a bow.
“Kunle my son, how are you? Meet Mrs Eze.” Mr Adejare said as he stepped out of the way to show his new client to his son but all Kunle did was froze, his jaw dropped and his eyes widened.
There she stood, the woman of his daydreams. She looked slightly older than he had imagined, maybe in her mid twenties. She was dressed in a flowing Ankara gown that totally hid her frame but her arms were of course thick. Her hair was beautifully woven, her face was exactly as he had drawn and painted with a dimpled smile and very nice teeth.
“Stop gawking, Kunle.” He heard his mother say. He managed to shut his opened mouth and tore his gaze to the marble floor as he spoke.
“Good evening, ma.” He greeted her. How was she even married at such a young age? He wondered.
“Good evening, dear.” Her voice flowed like a gentle river. It was calm and collected, like she had no worries in life, like life has always favoured her.
“Now, let’s move to the table.” His father announced and led them to the dinning room. Kunle struggled to keep his eyes off this strange woman that seemed to have walked out of one of his paintings. He took his place at the table beside Mama and it was no surprise to see the woman sit across him.
The cooks, Teni and Bimbo came in with pots of fried rice and grilled chicken as opposed to the Amala and ẹfọ riro that was originally on the menu. Kunle wondered why his father always tries to impress their guests in western ways when on a normal day, he’d kick against it. The transactional hypocrisy he’d built over the years tends to disgust Kunle.
Even when the food was served, Kunle struggled to eat. He was trying to resist the urge to look up at the woman, he started admiring the artistry of the ceramics company that designed the China that was used to serve dinner that evening. He compared every flower on his own plate to one another and silently praised the perfection and accuracy. But, he soon found himself giving in to the urge and raising his face to look at her. She was beautiful, she smiled as she spoke which made her dimples deepen so. For someone Kunle presumes to be rich, she was simply dressed and had no jewelry on besides her wedding band.
One look at his mother, Kunle dropped his face to his meal. She had on a questionable look that also spelled warning. He picked up his fork and fiddled with it, he ran it into his plate and played around with the peas and sweet corns in the food, he managed to force some spoons of rice into his mouth every now and then. At one point, he turned to his side to look at Mama, he was met with that look of warning from her too. He definitely had to stop.
“So, what does Kunle do?” The calm voice rose above the others that Kunle had drowned in the background. He sat up straight and looked at her, since she addressed him, he had the right to look at her.
“Me? I just currently finished my training in visual art. I developed my skills in painting, hyper realism to be presise.”
“That is cool, I really love that. Paintings interest me but I don’t have anyone to share my interest with. Are you further expanding your horizon?”
“Yes, he’s going to the university to study in order to take up the family business.” His father spoke before Kunle could.
“But why?” Mrs Eze asked with a puzzled look. “His heart seem to be elsewhere, why not let him go with it?”
“Better not indulge Kunle. He knows better than to agree with you on that but he would, if you keep encouraging him.” His father said again. Mrs Eze got the message because she gave him a knowing look then went back to her food. The rest of the dinner was filled with other talks except for what Kunle would love to do. When Mrs Eze first spoke, he thought he’d met his Messiah but now, he’d given up on the thought. Maybe there was nothing like salvation for him.
More than anger, Kunle felt pain and defeat. Not only were his views disregarded, he also felt ridiculed. His father spoke of him as if he were a child that pushes the limit. All his life, Kunle listened and took orders. Unlike his friends whose parents treated like eggs, Kunle’s father trained him like he was being prepped for war. The love he got the most was from Mama but it was obvious that Mama was more on his mother’s side than Kunle’s. His mother never took anything serious, she just likes to spend like the spoiled, rich girl she is. She only agrees to whatever her husband says like a robot.
Truth is, Kunle’s mother has not a care in the world. She was almost self absorbed and nonchalant. If it hadn’t been for mama, she even wanted to hire a nanny for Kunle. It wasn’t as if Kunle hated his parents, he just needed more parental love and care. Someone who listened, someone who asks his views, someone who saw him for who Kunle really is.
“Why did you come alone tonight? We thought you’d bring your family.” Kunle’s mother asked the pretty woman.
“Oh, my husband has been very busy. Our son got married recently and he lives in England with his wife. You see, I he our son used to be his father’s P.A but he dropped everything without looking back. I don’t blame the poor boy, he had always wanted a life of his own. Not following rules or norms, all he wanted was to take flight without restrictions. But his leaving took a toll on his father, despite employing someone new, he still has to teach them the ropes.” The words flowed out of her small mouth like fine wine out of a bottle.
“Our son got married?” Kunle thought to himself. “How old are you?” Kunle wish he could ask. Deep down, he wanted to believe she’s a stepmom but things were beginning to topple and Kunle felt this heaviness in his heart. Why bother though? It’s not like he had been in love with this fantasy woman. Whatever her life in real life was, that should have no effect on him.
After dinner, they moved back to the living room. The discussion was solely about business which was his father’s way. Kunle needed to get out of there, it was not like his presence mattered anyway.
“I’d like to go to bed.” Kunle said when he saw his father stop to drink from the glass of wine he was holding.
“Sure, dear. Go on.” His mother said sweetly.
“Goodnight Mama.”
“Goodnight Lakunle.”
“Goodnight ma’am.” Kunle greeted Mrs Eze.
“Sleep well, Kunle. I hope to see more of you.” Kunle wondered what that meant, did she mean to see him again or was it to see him pursue his dream?
“See you in the morning, son.”
“Yes, sir.” Regardless of every turmoil and uncertainty Kunle was feeling, he smiled the rest of the way to his room. He doesn’t understand it, why was his heart beating so loudly and why was he so happy? Was it because of what she said to him?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Mrs Adejare sat in front of her vanity table as she carried on with her evening skin care session. She was dressed in a peach, silk night gown, her head wrapped in a silk scarf. Mr Adejare was going through some documents in bed, he was also dressed for bed.
“Tunji, didn’t you see your son earlier?” Mrs Adejare asked.
“You mean Kunle, what did he do?”
“Didn’t you see how he was staring at Mrs Eze as if he knew her from somewhere?”
“And you think that is impossible?”
“Yes.”
“Babe.” Mr Adejare packed and put away the documents in his hands. He sat up and watched as his wife walked to the bed to join him. “You heard her say that paintings interest her. They probably met in an art gallery or something.”
“Alright but did that give him the right to look at her that shamelessly?” She asked as she joined him in the bed, she rested her head on his broad shoulder and snuggled into him. Mr Adejare held her close and gently stroked her back.
“What do you mean?”
Her face instantly flew up to meet his. “You mean you didn’t see him staring at her the whole time?” Mr Adejare looked surprised and confused which spoke of his obvious ignorance.
“I didn’t notice.”
“You’re always this way. Tunji, please try to pay more attention to your environment.”
“Yes mommy,” He teased her with a chuckle and bent to kiss her head. They soon turned the lights off and went to bed. Neither further discussing their son’s attitude or pondering on the reasons for it.
Kunle couldn’t sleep, he had taken out the drawings again. They looked exactly like her, in every way. Had he seen her once before? He thought. Because he knew it takes familiarity to be so accurate. He looked at the the painting he hung above his table, everything perfectly depicted her.
He turned in his bed and hoped in his heart that he too would see more of her.
The next day was Saturday, Kunle slept in as usual. When he came down for breakfast, he was not surprised to see Mama eating alone. He sat next to her and served himself a plate of fried yams and stew.
“Lakunle, why did you stare so much at that woman from last night?” Kunle knew she would ask.
“I don’t know. She looked familiar.”
“Regardless, you should learn to not stare too much. What if you had scared her away?”
“What is she? A little birdie?” Mama laughed at Kunle’s question. He always had his ways of making her laugh not to mention that he always ran his mouth carelessly around her. It was as if he trusted her, more than he trusted his own parents.
“Just be careful.”
“Alright Mama.” They were still eating when Mr Adejare joined them.
“Good morning, my lovely family. Did you sleep well?”
“Good morning, Tunji.” Mama answered.
“Good morning, dad.” Kunle greeted with a bow. “Where is mom?”
“Your mother is still sleeping. Kunle, Mrs Eze called me earlier. She would like to see some of our magazines and go over them so she can choose where she deems fit. I would send someone else but it’s the weekend and I don’t want to bother any of my employees. It’s infact time for you to step up to your role. So, you’ll take them to her house in V.I.”
Kunle felt his heart threaten to explode. He didn’t expect to see her again so soon but he’d take this chance without thinking.
“Yes, sir.” His father didn’t even look at him when he nodded. He was already stuffing the fried yams into his mouth. Kunle was too excited to continue his meal. He started downing cups of water.
“You barely ate anything. Do you plan on drowning.” Mama whispered with a wicked smile.
“C’mon, Mama. I ate a nice portion.”
“Obviously.” The old woman said, pointing at his scarcely touched plate.
Later when his father handed him the magazines, Kunle steadied his shaky hands to receive them. He was not only excited. He was nervous too. The drive in Kunle’s eyes was short as he had no time to collect himself before they arrived the house. It was a nice mansion that was well crafted. The architect that designed the place must have made millions out of Mr Eze, there were statues and flowers in every angle. It was almost like Kunle’s house but back home, there were no statuses and the flowers had been replaced with artificials since the last gardener left.
Kunle had told the driver to leave and not bother coming to pick him up, he had planned to go to a bookstore after. He didn’t even expect the visit to take time. He took a big, deep breath when he reached the door. He rang the door bell and waited.
Soon, the door knob twisted and the door flew open before his face.
“Hi, Kunle.”
“Good day, ma’am.” Kunle immediately looked at his feet.
“Come in.” Mrs Eze said and opened the door wider. Kunle followed with his head bowed like a lamb that was being led to the slaughter.
The living room was painted white, exactly like his parents’ but unlike their own home, picture frames were hung all over the walls. There was one picture that looked very old, it was of Mrs Eze in her wedding dress standing next to a man who was dressed in a black suit, Kunle guessed that was Mr Eze. The man looked old, like he was in his mid forties and Mrs Eze looked like a teenager, she was slender but her face was the same.
The man was in other pictures with her and there was a little boy too, a newer frame was of a young man and a white woman. It was of Mrs Eze’s son and his wife. There was classical music playing from the speaker, the TV was turned off and there were books next to a cup of tea on the center table. Kunle looked at the woman, she was dressed in jean shorts and a loose blouse. She had no makeup on and her long hair was bound in a ponytail. She looked very beautiful, Kunle feared he was looking at her too much and reverted his gaze back to his feet.
“Sit.” She pointed at the two-seater and Kunle obeyed without looking up. “I expected someone else to be here.”
“Yes, Dad thought it was better if I came.”
“I guess because he expects you to take over his business someday.” Her calm voice seemed to intoxicate Kunle, he could feel his heart pounding against his chest, he felt nervous.
“I think so.”
“You can leave the magazines on the table. Have you eaten yet?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“Too bad, you’ll have to eat again though.” She rose from the table before Kunle could protest. He hadn’t seen this coming, if he stayed there for too long, his day wouldn’t go as he planned.
“You can come join me so you don’t get bored.” She called him from inside the kitchen. Kunle obediently went, he was powerless against adults anyway, besides he has to put on his best behavior or she might terminate business with his dad.
Kunle met her laying the ingredients on the table, it looked like she was going to make jollof rice.
“Can I interest you in some homemade jollof rice?” She asked with a smug smile.
“Please.”
“You know, it’s very nice to have you here. The house is exceptionally quiet on weekends since the staff go to spend weekends with their families except for the gateman.” She had placed a pot on the cooker and poured in some of the ingredients.
“Why don’t you have permanent staff?”
“Hmm, maybe because everyone deserves some family time every now and then. Well, that’s my belief though, it may contradict yours.” She was stirring the jollof sauce. She soon added rice to it and let it cook. “Why don’t you grab a stool and sit? You’ve been acting out of place since you came. Do I scare you?”
“No ma’am. I just don’t want to get in your way.”
“In my way? That’s funny, feel at home, Kunle.” She sat on a stool beside him and flipped through a cookbook.
“Do you need a cookbook to make jollof rice?” Kunle couldn’t suppress his curiosity. Mrs Eze laughed so hard that she threw her upper body on the table.
“This is for intercontinental dishes.” She managed to say amidst her laughter.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” He looked at the table, embarrassed.
“It’s okay, not everyone can cook. My daughter-in-law sent me this, she expects me to be able to make some English foods by the time she puts to bed.”
“Oh, she’s pregnant. Your son, he’s into white women?”
“I don’t believe so, he didn’t marry her because of her color, he married her for love. You see Kunle, love is a crazy thing. It breaks barriers and norms, it is no respecter of age, race or ethnicity.”
“I’ll bet, your husband seemed to be way older than you.”
“Well, if you say so.” Kunle watched her expression drop, he hoped he had not hit a nerve. “And you see, my husband is Ibo while I’m Yoruba.”
“I didn’t know that. That’s so cool, ma’am.”
“Don’t you think it’s time you dropped the formalities, call me Aunty Grace.” She stood and walked to the pot. Kunle couldn’t see what she was doing but the movement of her arm showed she was stirring.
“Food is ready.” She announced like the chefs from the YouTube videos Kunle would spend hours watching. He looked on as she got out plates and served the food.
When she placed the plate of jollof rice and fried beef in front of him, Kunle feared he was going to die eating. It was too much food but he couldn’t even say no.
“Thank you, ma.” He let her sit before he dug in. The food was delicious, it was spicy and savory. Kunle was happy he barely touched his meal earlier because he sure was going to finish this.
“Do you have other plans for today? I’d like you to help me choose a suitable property.”
“No.” Kunle answered after a quick thought. This was just for business, he tried to convince himself.
“Good. I think you should call your parents and inform them.”
“No, they won’t miss me anyway.” Mrs Eze gave him a knowing look then continued with her food.
“You love art, eh?” She said after a while.
“Yes.” Kunle’s face lit up and he smiled at the thought. It’s been so long since someone asked him that.
“And you want to study it?”
“Desperately. Well, I can’t though. My dad won’t allow it.”
“You know what my son did? His father wanted him to study mechanical engineering but his heart lay in computer science. He convinced his dad to send him to the UK where he studied mechanical engineering for a semester and then switched majors.”
Kunle’s eyes widened in shock. “Do you really mean it?”
“Yeah, it was when he graduated that we got to find out. His father couldn’t do anything at that point. Listen Kunle, we owe our parents a lot but we don’t owe them our lives because when they die, it’s us against the world. It’s your life and mine, we should be in the driver’s seat, not just tucked in the background and forced to watch while someone else takes control.”
Kunle thought it was good advice but he doesn’t want to rebel against his parents, he has always been obedient to them and it’ll feel weird to turn against them all of a sudden but she’s right, it was indeed his life not his parents’.
“I’m not saying you should be like my son Jude. I’m just saying you do you.” Kunle laughed at her use of a Gen Z slang, this young looking older woman evolved unlike many others.
“You know you look very young, like you’re in your late twenties.”
“Thank you Kunle but why try to flatter me?”
“It’s not flattery, it is the truth.”
“I know I look young but I’m actually forty two.”
“Wow, I didn’t see that coming but then forty two is pretty young too.”
“You think?” She looked at him, this time it felt different. It was as if she saw into him, into his soul.
“I don’t just think, I know.” Kunle hoped he hadn’t said anything wrong this time, his own mother is a bit older than this woman.
“Let me wash the plates so we can look at the magazines.” She was already gathering the plates but Kunle tried to stop her.
“Allow me, it’s the least I could do to say thank you.”
“That’s funny, I didn’t feed you for thanks.” She was at the sink and turned the faucet on, Kunle stood some feet away from her. She washed the plates in silence when she suddenly yelped.
“Are you OK?” Kunle could see her finger bleeding.
“It’s nothing, I just cut myself a little.” But Kunle was not having it, he held both her hands and ran them under the running water to rinse them. “You should sit while I finish this.” He ordered to which she complied.
Kunle washed and replaced the dishes then asked for the first aid box, he got it and brought out a bandage.
“Should I just stick it on or should I clean it with methylated spirit first?” He asked, unsure.
“Just the bandage, I’m sure I can’t get infected from the knife.”
“Well you can, if you’d sliced fresh meat with it.”
“I just used it to slice the vegetables, you don’t have to worry.” Kunle wrapped the bandage around her finger and without thinking, brought it to his mouth and blew air on it. It was something Mama would do whenever she treated his wounds. When he came to his senses, he quickly let go of her hand.
“I’m so so sorry, ma’am. I shouldn’t have. It was just something Mama would do. I’m so sorry.” He apologized profusely.
“It’s alright, it felt nice. We should go back to the living room.”
They spent the afternoon looking at the magazines, Mrs Eze was not satisfied with what she had seen and they agreed that Kunle should pick it instead.
“I think this should be your decision, Aunty Grace.”
“I don’t know which to pick, they all look the same.”
“Well, the locations are different. We have the mainland, the island and the higher land.”
“Where is the higher land?” Mrs Eze looked at him, confused.
“That is nowhere, I was only kidding.” Kunle grinned like a fool in an attempt to not annoy her.
“Oh, you’re not serious. For a moment there, I thought that’s another part of Lagos.” She chuckled as she spoke. She looked like the type that seldom gets angry, the type that is always cheerful and full of life.
She later settled for two acres of land in the mainland. She explained to Kunle that her husband needed it to start a home appliance factory.
“Excellent choice, you really have an eye for good things.” Kunle said like he’s always heard his father say to his clients. Kunle looked at his watch, it was 4:26pm. It was high time he left, he was looking forward to dinner, Aunty Grace had served him fruits and cookies for lunch but Kunle wanted real food. “I should get going.”
“It was nice having you and I think it’d be nice if I drove you home.”
“No, it’s fine. I’ll just get a taxi.”
“No Kunle.” She grabbed a bunch of keys from the table. “That is the least I could do to say thank you.” Kunle smiled when he heard his own words being said back to him.
“Alright, let’s go.”
It was two weeks after Kunle’s visit to Mrs Eze’s house. They saw very little of each other since then, the only chance Kunle got was once at his father’s office when she had come with a friend of hers. His fantasy had grown wild since then, it was as if he was completely obsessed with her. He couldn’t close his eyes without seeing her in his dreams, he began painting more portraits of her that he hid in his closet where no one can find them so he doesn’t get into trouble.
The other day, Mama had asked him if he was seeing someone.
“Lakunle.” She said when they were alone. “Did you get a girlfriend?”
“No.” He was shocked by the question. “Why do you ask?”
“I mean it’s completely normal at your age. It’s just that the way you’ve been acting the past few days, calls for some attention. You talk to yourself, zone out and smile. It’s like you’re in another world entirely, you’ve been so oblivious of your environment, so disconnected.” She said with concern in her voice.
Kunle assured her that everything was fine with him but when he was alone, he told himself that nothing was fine. How could he, a teenager, obsess over someone his mother’s age? Or is there something to it? Something more than obsession?
He knew that he had feelings for her that he shouldn’t, he had imagined things in his head that he shouldn’t. He wanted her, it was crazy the way his thoughts were eating him up from the inside.
Kunle took his phone and scrolled through his contacts to search for Mrs Eze’s contact number, when he saw it, he wanted badly to call her and hear her soothing voice but on second thought, he figured it was best to start with a text since they’ve never had any phone conversation before. He opened his WhatsApp and searched her name.
“Hi, ma’am.” he texted, she was online but when she didn’t text back after about fifteen minutes, Kunle put his phone down, he wished he had never texted her. He grabbed a comic book from his table and flipped through but put it down after a while. Nothing makes sense to him, nothing feels right, all he wants was to at least hear from her.
“Oh God, I hope I’m not going crazy.” He said, holding his head in his palms. “What’s happening to me?”
A knock on his door caused him to jolt in the bed. “Who’s there?” He asked.
“Oga Kunle, it’s me.” Teni, the younger of the two cooks spoke from outside.
“Come in.” Teni entered with a tray of pap and akara.
“Good morning, Auntie Teni.” Teni was infact, just a few years older than Kunle but regardless, he would make sure to show respect to every member of the staff.
“Why didn’t you come downstairs for breakfast? Mama suggested I brought it to you.”
“Oh, I slept late last night so I had trouble getting up this morning. Thank you for bringing me breakfast.”
“No wahala. Your mom and dad have gone for a wedding, they said they thought you’d be coming. Mama went too.”
“Hmm, I’m not sure they wanted me to come along. They would have asked someone to get me if they did.” Kunle said softly, he always felt like an outsider around his parents, always working hard to get their attention and love.
“They probably didn’t want to wake you. You said you slept late after all.” Kunle begged Teni tovstay and chat as he ate his breakfast.
It was a sunny Saturday, Kunle wished he had driven or had a driver take him. He was struggling to find his way in the crowded street as the sun burned him. When he saw a woman hawking iced drinks, he quickly waved her over and got a bottle of Coca-Cola.
He had planned to just walk around Victoria island and take pictures with his camera. This was another thing Kunle loves to do, he believes pictures are moments that are forever frozen and can never be relived. One could try but it would never be as perfect when compared to the original moment itself.
He took pictures of people, strangers, sceneries, the sky, the sea, the untainted beauty of Lagos. By the time he was ready to go home, the evening traffic was building so Kunle opted to walk home instead, he plugged in his pods and listened to the rap songs boys his age so much love.
His parents were already home, still dressed in their very expensive lace outfits. Mama, who went with them was flipping through some magazine they got from the wedding. She was the first to notice him.
“Lakunle, come join us.” She waved him over and Kunle went.
“How are you, darling?” His mother smiled sweetly when she saw him. Kunle felt like she only shows her love when he’s there but completely forgets about him when he’s not.
“Good evening sir. Good evening mom.” He greeted before going to hug Mama. “Why did you go with them? I missed you.” He said into her ear and Mama chuckled as she patted his head.
“I needed a breath of fresh air.” She said to him, her eyes smiling with love. Kunle loves the way she’d look at him, he sometimes wish Mama had being his mother instead. He sat doe beside her, arm around her shoulder.
“My boy, where were you today?” His father said, gently rubbing his protruding belly.
“In town, I went exploring the city.”
“Kunle, you’ve lived here your whole live. Well, except for the usual vacations overseas. Shouldn’t you be exploring other things?”
“I want to, sir. It’s just that my options are very limited.”
“Alright, I got something for you. Come Monday, you start going to work with me pending the time you write your JAMB and apply to a university.” His father said as if it was pre-planned. Kunle was disgusted by his guts, why would he go on and decide his live?
Kunle thought about what Mrs Eze told him the other day, he needed to be somewhere else. Somewhere he can he free and will be able to do the things that he wishes too without having someone breathing down his neck.
“About that, I want to study in the U.S” Kunle looked into his father’s eyes for the first time in a long time. He hoped he wouldn’t catch up on his plans.
“Really?” His father innocently smiled. “That’s good. Just pick a university and I’ll make sure you get in.” Kunle wanted to roll his eyes. “As if I need help.” He thought to himself.
“Alright sir, thank you.” Kunle faked a smile. “I’d like to go go bed.”
“What about dinner?” His mother quickly asked.
“I’ll just get some fruits. Goodnight everyone.”
“Sleep well, my dear.” Mama hugged him once more.
“See you in the morning, love.” His mother blew him a kiss which he caught in his hand.
“Goodnight son.” His father said, he must be feeling proud now that Kunle seemed to be taking a step towards a tertiary education.
Kunle was about to turn the lights off for the night when his phone rang. The caller id says Mrs Eze. Kunle’s heart thumped against his chest, it was almost 10pm. Why was she calling so late? He swiped the screen to pick the call and brought the phone to his ear.
“Hello.” Kunle shakily said into the receiver.
“Hi, Kunle. Long time no see.” Her voice was bubbly, it sounded like she was happy and excited. It was not exactly what he expected but like a drug, her voice filled his heart and soothed an ache he didn’t know was there.
“Yes ma. How have you been, ma?”
“Come on, I thought we agreed to drop the formalities. We’re like friends now, Kunle. Or am I too old to be your friend?”
“No, it’s not that. I’m so sorry, I’m just used to being formal around adults and thank you for considering me your friend.” The thought of it warmed his hear, he turned the lights off and laid in the darkness, his face full of smiles.
“Good, I saw your text this evening. I’m so sorry I didn’t text back, the thing is I really don’t do great with social media. I believe phone calls are much easier.” She said.
“I disagree with you on that. I love texting, I can think more carefully and read my text over and over before sending them but on phone calls, I probably will blurt out the first thing that comes to mind and piss you off.” He explained.
“Hmm, that’s one neat perspective, Kunle but call me old-fashioned if you wish, I still prefer a phone call.”
“Alright then.” Kunle said, unsure of how to continue with the conversation. “What are you doing?” He asked before he could stop himself.
“You mean right now? I’m just in bed, just finished a book and turned the lights off to think about this book but then I thought to call you before I start thinking. Haha, I’ll probably drift off to sleep soon after.”
“Oh really? I’m laying in the dark too. What did you read?” Kunle was not certain he should be asking her such questions but he loved the way the conversation was going.
“Well, it’s one very old book titled, Emerald storm. It tells the story of the romance between two peculiar people.”
“Hmm, you really enjoy reading those?”
“Don’t judge me, I love mushy romance, haha. What do you read?”
“Lots of things but my interest fleets. Right now, I’m crazy about action comics.”
“Sounds good to me. You know what, Kunle? I’ve been thinking about you a lot since the day you were here. We really had a nice chat, I’ve been wondering if you would like to come over sometime.”
Kunle thought for a moment if he had won the jackpot, this was exactly what he was thinking but of course, he had been thinking more deeply about it, about her.
“I think that’s doable.” Kunle said into the phone, he said with all the masculinity he could muster. He didn’t want it to look like he was already looking for the opportunity.
“That’s funny. Oh and hmm, why did you text? I mean I totally appreciate it but I’m curious, is everything alright?” There was a bit if worry in her tone.
Kunle hesitated for a minute before he spoke but when he finally did, he said “Everything is fine, it’s just that I missed you and I wanted to hear from you.” There was a long silence after he said this, he feared he must have annoyed her with what he said.
“You know what? I think, it’s too late. Maybe we should talk some other time.” She finally said.
He was right, he had successfully scared her away. “Oh, did I say something you don’t like?”
“No no no, it’s just that it’s too late. We can just talk better later, tomorrow or some other time. Goodnight Kunle.” She hung up before Kunle had the chance to speak.
Frustrated, he brought a pillow to his face and screamed into it.
“I messed up.” He said and laid there in the darkness, his heart welling up with sadness. Maybe he shouldn’t have texted her after all.
The Adepegba’s are not what you’d call religious, it was no surprise that they spent Sundays in the house just relaxing.
It was late in the afternoon before Kunle left his room to join his family, the events of the previous night left him miserable that he could not sleep or leave his bed to eat breakfast. The only reason he had decided to go now is because his stomach wouldn’t stop rumbling from hunger. He was at the top of the stairs when he heard laughter echo through the entire place. He wondered how many of them were there, was it just Mama and his own mother?
In the living room, his mother and Mama sat, casually discussing and there was Mrs Eze. What she was doing there was a mystery to Kunle. She made no mention of a visit the previous night neither did she speak of any unfinished business.
“Kunle love.” His mother’s sugary voice called. “Come join us.” She waved him over with her beautifully manicured left palm. “We were just discussing about the company’s nineteenth anniversary which your father would be celebrating in December.” His mother explained as he walked over to them.
“Good morning everyone.” Kunle greeted and sat between his mother and Mama which was directly opposite Mrs Eze. His gaze instantly fell to his feet as he became suddenly embarrassed to meet the other woman’s eyes.
“Is everything well, Lakunle?” Mama asked him while she gently patted his back.
“Yes Mama.” He managed to lift his face to meet hers. Mama was getting so old, all her hair has gone grey and there were wrinkles all over her face. Kunle knew one day he would look like Mama but what scares him was if his own story would be as tragic as hers. He wanted to live and experience things yet enjoy a fulfilling life. He knew that even Mama wanted more but settled for this because fate wasn’t very kind to her.
“Hi Kunle.” Mrs Eze whose eyes never left him spoke for the first time since he entered the room.
“Hi ma’am.” Kunle said above a whisper.
“No no no, we agreed that you’d cut out the “ma’am” and call me something else entirely.” She protested with a slight shake of her head.
“Oh, I’m so sorry Auntie Grace.” Kunle sneaked a look at her and quickly reverted his gaze when he saw that she had her own eyes on him.
“You two seem to be getting along fine.” His mother said.
“Yes, Kunle and I are more like friends.”
“That’s good, so about the anniversary. I think we should wear a lilac coloured silk material or lace. What do you think, Kunle?” Kunle was surprised that she asked for his opinion.
“But mom, the anniversary is not until December and we’re still in August.”
“So? The earlier we plan, the better. You know I’m not one for last minute panic.”
“OK mom, I really cannot decide your choice of attire, especially when there are three experienced adults sitting here. I only came downstairs because I was starting to get hungry.” Kunle said as he stood to his feet.
“Hmm, you’re no fun.” His mother said with a pout.
“Hahaha, come on mom. You have the best fashion ideas after all.”
“Aww, that’s so sweet.” Kunle heard her say as he strolled to the kitchen. He knew his father would be somewhere in town, drinking with his friends, his father has wealthy friends who are also snubs to their kids like himself. He never got along with those children, Kunle always felt like they’re spoilt and ill-mannered. What bothers him most at this time, was the fact that Mrs Eze was sitting in their living room on a Sunday afternoon and to plan their company’s anniversary. When she became her mother’s friend he didn’t know.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Kunle spent the rest of the afternoon playing video games on his phone, the cooks were out shopping for groceries so he was all by himself. He enjoyed the peace and serenity of his time alone which was interrupted from time to time by the laughter of the women in the living room, it was early in the evening when his mother called him.
“I’m here mom.” He announced his presence the moment he walked into the living room.
“Okay, can you please go with Mrs Eze to her house? She has this material she wants to send to me and since you’re not doing anything, why don’t you go with her to get it?” His mother said without taking her eyes off the fashion magazine she held in her hands.
Kunle stood frozen to the spot, he dreaded spending time alone with Mrs Eze in fear of what she might say. He knew he had crossed the line with his words over the phone. He was hoping they’d have no reason to ever talk to each other again.
“Okay ma.” He finally said, he held his breath as Mrs Eze led him to her car and when he sat himself, he was expecting her to pour out her rage but to his surprise, she said nothing. Infact, the ride was extremely quiet.
There was no traffic hold up and they got to her house in no time.
Inside the house, Mrs Eze turned the lights on and asked him. “Do you want something to drink?” Kunle wanted to say no but he felt it would offend her.
“Yes, can I get a can of Coca-Cola?” Kunle said, sitting on the couch where they had sat the first time he was there. Mrs Eze went into the kitchen and came back with a can of Coca-Cola for him and a can of beer for herself. The two sat side by side drinking, neither saying a word to the other.
“Kunle.” Mrs Eze finally said which caused Kunle’s heart to beat so fast he thought he might die. “Remember our call last night, you said you missed me.”
“That.” Kunle tried as hard as he could to maintain a steady tone. “I didn’t mean anything by it. It’s just that you were my first client and I think that made me build some attachment to you but besides that, it meant nothing.” Kunle mustered the courage to finally look at her, she was beautiful, the kind that would bring a nation down with their good looks.
“Oh.” Kunle watched as her face dropped in disappointment which was quickly replaced by a sad smile. “I thought you meant something by it. And there I go again, over assuming things, haha.” The pain in her voice was evident, Kunle thought she might cry. What was she expecting anyway? A love confession from someone who’s younger than her own son?
“I think we misunderstood each other.” Kunle hoped he could soothe everything out by saying that. Does she feel something for him too? Looks like it, because why else would she have such a bitter look all over her face?
“Yes, it was just some misunderstanding.” Her voice was coarse and Kunle knew she was probably holding back tears. “I’ll go get that material.” She stood up but Kunle held her back.
He wanted to pull her to himself and hold her, he wanted her to cry to him so he can comfort her but instead, he said. “Your husband is not here.”
“Yes.” She answered. “He’s seldom home, he travels overseas and when he’s here, he spends monst of his time in the mainland. He’s currently in Japan.” She slipped out of his grip and walked away from him.
Kunle held his head in confusion. Whatever was happening to him has to stop, she’s older, he’s way too young. She’s married and there waa no way they’d work. He was still battling his own emotions when her footsteps filled the room.
“Here.” She handed him a wrapped package that contained the material. “Tell your mom to call me when she decides. There’s a card in there with the company’s details on it. She can call them to place her order.”
“Okay.” Kunle took the package from her but sat still. “It’s just 7pm, why don’t you sit with me for a while.” As if he had ordered it, she sat down beside him.
“I don’t understand what is happening but the truth is, I truly missed you and it has nothing to do with you being our client. I think I’m obsessed with you, I’ve had you in my head for quite sometime. I have paintings in my room that are of you, from way back before we even met. I don’t know what this is but you’re as confused and as troubled as I am.” Kunle poured without holding back, a teardrop trickled down his face. He hated himself, he hated that he felt so miserable and guilty, he hated that his own emotions try to drown him.
“Is this because you have an unsatisfactory relationship with your mom and you see me as a mother figure?” Mrs Eze asked ever so softly.
“No, it’s more than that. I see you in everything but not as the mother I never had. I just see you there, everywhere, like a living dream. I’m so sorry, I know this is wrong and I shouldn’t be saying all these but I think you should know.”
“Ugh. And I thought it was just me. Kunle, I think I feel the same way. The first time I saw you, it was as if you were a magnet and I’m just a pin. I think I see you in a way that I shouldn’t.” She reached for his hand and squeezed. “I think I’m starting to fall for you, Kunle. Maybe I’m a pervert or something but trust me, I don’t just want to sleep with you. I want to keep you for myself, if that makes sense.” She snuggled closer to him and rested her head on his shoulder. Kunle brought his own arm around her and held her to himself. In that moment, nothing else mattered to them.
Kunle gently released her from his grip and lifted her face to his. He looked at her and admired her beautiful face, she has the face of a teenage girl and her dimples stayed even when she wasn’t smiling. Her small mouth parted slightly and her eyes searched his face. “May I kiss you?” He whispered as if to not scare her away.
“Don’t ask.” She whispered back and that was all it took for Kunle to capture her lips in his. Her lips were soft and squishy, she tasted like beer with a hint of lemon, her mouth was warm against his, buttery and smooth. The world seems to stand still as they devoured each other, the only thing that they heard was each other’s raspy breath. Tears rolled down Mrs Eze’s face, for the first time since she was eighteen, she cried tears of pure joy.
It was pretty late when Kunle got back home that evening. His family had gone to bed and he only saw his mom briefly when he went to her room to give her the material. He wanted to spend time in the cooks’ room and gist with them but his heart was threatening to burst from excitement.
The thought of the beautiful kiss he had shared earlier with Mrs Eze rocked his mind and almost drove him crazy. He went straight to his room and rushed to get ready for bed. When he was ready, he turned the lights off and grabbed his phone. He contemplated between calling and texting her but he settled for the former.
“Kunle, how are you?” Mrs Eze’s calm voice flowed into his ear through the receiver.
“I’m good. How are you?” Kunle tried to keep calm and not show his excitement.
“Good too. I just got into bed. I have this new book that I’m going to devour until I fall asleep.” She said, most of her words, Kunle couldn’t make out as he was barely paying attention. It was the sound of her voice that Kunle listened to, the sweet, calm, refreshing tone of it.
“Hmmm.” Kunle managed to say. “I just wanted to say hi and that tonight, with you, was beautiful.” His comment was swallowed by a short silence which disturbed Kunle a bit.
“I’ve been thinking the same thing.” She finally said. “It was sudden, maybe not so sudden but we didn’t have that scripted, did we? Hahaha.” Her laughter was like sweet music.
“No, we didn’t.” Kunle said and waited a bit before he spoke. “Can I say something though?”
“Hmm, Kunle. I think I know what you want to say. Don’t you think it’s too soon for that?”
“Ahh, alright. It’s too soon, I guess. I better not keep you from your book.” Kunle said, not upset or pissed but happy that she understood him.
“Are you angry now?” She asked coyly, like she would ask a child.
“No no no. Come on, I have to work tomorrow and you have your book. It’s late too, it’s past 10pm.”
“Yeah, we spent quite sometime kissing this evening. Hahaha.”
“You’re right. I hope you won’t change your mind anytime soon and cut me off.”
“Oh Kunle, let’s hope not. I’ve never been with someone your age before so I’m as new to this as you are. Let’s just take things steady and hope for the best, OK?”
“Yes ma’am.” Kunle chuckled to his own teasing.
“Get out, you. Hahaha. Goodnight, talk to you tomorrow.” She said to him before hanging up.
“Goodnight.” Kunle said with a big smile as he put his phone down for the day.
The next day was super busy for Kunle. There were new clients trooping in with big bags to spend from. Mondays were rumored to be busy but that day seemed the busiest to Kunle. His father shared the clients amongst his staffs, Kunle inclusive. It was Kunle’s big time in the real estate world and he seemed to be doing great at it.
“Maybe taking up the family’s business isn’t a bad idea after all.” Kunle thought to himself.
He was working in a corner of his father’s office that was demarcated with a cubicle.
“Son.” His father’s deep voice called.
“Yes sir.” Kunle answered, standing up quickly to get to his father’s side of the room.
“Please, sit.” His father pointed to the chairs on the other side of his desk.
“Thank you.” Kunle settled into a chair, wondering what his father had to say.
“You must he wondering why I called you over.” Mr Adejare said as he took a sip from his teacup. “You see, son. I remember you kicking firmly against the idea of working here. You hated the idea of real estate. Funny how you turned out to be a pro at this. Kunle, I’m very proud of you.” Mr Adejare said those words that warmed Kunle’s heart.
“Thank you, sir. It is a great opportunity working here, I’ve learned, understood and seen from your point of view. Thank you for the opportunity, sir.” Kunle’s smile couldn’t be hidden, his father just said he was proud of him.
“That’s my boy, I’ll die a happy man knowing my company is in safe hands.” The idea did not totally appeal to Kunle but it was best to keep that to himself. He had already planned in his heart to move to the US and study art instead.
“Starting tomorrow, you’ll be assigned your own office. Where you’ll work from for the period of a year while you process your admission into a reputable school in the US.” His father said.
“OK, sir. Thank you.” Kunle went back to his cubicle where he gathered his things for transfer the next day.
That week, he barely saw Mrs Eze, he couldn’t even find the perfect excuse to go see her. He was constantly asking his mother when Mrs Eze would come over but stopped because he feared he might rouse suspicions. The only way they had kept in touch was through endless phone conversations.
“I miss you.” Kunle told her one night over the phone.
“I miss you too. You should come see me sometime.”
“I want to but I get home pretty late and I can’t come up with a good reason to come see you.”
“I understand, baby. Take care of yourself.”
“Say that again.” Kunle ordered.
“What? Take care of yourself?” Mrs Eze asked, confused.
“What you said before that.”
“Hmm.” Mrs Eze knew what he meant. “Baby?”
“Oh God.” Kunle sighed heavily. “Yes, baby. Call me your baby.”
“You’re such a big baby anyway. I’d call you that if you want, hahaha.” She teased him.
“Aww, come on. I’m not a big baby. I’m your baby but not a big, spoilt brat.” Kunle said with feigned sadness.
“You’re a great big baby, Kunle. And that’s okay.”
“Hmmm, I agree to disagree. I’ll go to bed now, talk to you tomorrow. I love you and you don’t have to say it back.” Kunle told her and before he would regret it, he hung up.
Yes, he truly loved her. Despite the age difference and several other hurdles in their way, they loved each other. Maybe that’s how love works, like God, in mysterious ways.
Kunle was very happy that Sunday when his mother sent him to Mrs Eze’s.
“She said she would like you to help her move somethings in the house, all her staffs are gone for the weekend and the gateman has travelled back to his hometown in Borno. Be a good boy, Kunle. I know most of her problem is caused by loneliness and she probably just needs someone to talk to. I can’t pay her a visit because I won’t be of much help with the moving.” Mrs Adejare said while they ate breakfast.
“Oh, okay mom.” Kunle wasted no time in eating his food and rushed out of the house.
“Hi.” Kunle said the moment Mrs Eze opened to door.
“Kunle, come in.” They had barely closed the door when Kunle picked her up and pinned her to the wall.
“What are you doing?” She said but Kunle took her lips in his mouth and kissed her. It was a heartfelt kiss that lasted minutes.
“You’re a bad boy.” She finally said when she regained her breath. “Want something to drink?” She said and disappeared into the kitchen without waiting for an answer.
She came back with two cans of beer and a tray of cookies.
“Ever had a beer?” She popped the can open and handed it to him.
“Nope.”
“Why not? You’re not a kid.”
“I’m only eighteen. Shouldn’t I wait till I’m twenty one?” Kunle was already drinking from the can as he spoke.
“You know what? You’re free to break rules around me. I won’t punish you.” They both laughed at this and Mrs Eze soon crawled into his laps and sat there, her head on his chest.
“Thank you for coming, Kunle. It’s nice having you.”
“Yeah, I hope you won’t drain me today. Heard you have things to move.” Mrs Eze lifted her face to his.
“And you believed that? My god, you’re so gullible.” She said with a smile.
“Oh, you got me.” Kunle said and set his drink down. He cupped her face in his palms and lowered his to kiss her. He kissed her with all the love and respect in his heart. When he broke off, he said. “I love you, Auntie Grace.”
“Kunle.” She brought her hand to his cheek and pinched. “I love you too.” Mrs Eze placed her head back on his chest and said. “You know I’m Yoruba and I do have a Yoruba name. I don’t use it on any of my credentials but it’s what my parents used to call me. Want to know what that is?”
“Please.” Kunle said as he ran his fingers through her hair.
“Dunni, my name is Omodunni. Like myself, my parents suffered to have a child. They struggled to have me after years of trying. I was their precious jewel and they gave me that name to say it was nice to have a child, to have me.”
“That’s beautiful. What happened to them.”
“Well, I wasn’t such a good daughter. I felt like life in our little village was to little for me. I decided to explore the world and come to Lagos to study for my tertiary degree. My parents didn’t have much, you see. But the little they had, they gave to me. I was what you’d call greedy.”
Kunle didn’t say anything, he knew that at this moment, all she needed was to be listened to. He pulled her closer and rubbed her shoulder.
“During my time in Unilag, I met my husband. He had recently become a widower. A rich one with a little kid. I agreed to marry him, my parents weren’t in support but they let me decide for myself. I urged them to move to Lagos so we could be close but they refused. I made them comfortable with money but only spoke to them over the phone. They died of heartbreak, Kunle. I killed my own parents.”
“I don’t believe so, your parents couldn’t have lived your life for you and you did what felt right to you. Dunni, you didn’t kill them and if you fail to accept the truth, you’ll go on bearing an unnecessary burden of guilt.” Kunle said, still stroking her shoulder and kissing her hair.
“You may be right.” She raised her face and gave him a quick kiss. “I think it was right to fall for you, Kunle. You know just the right things to say.”
“Yeah, but I’m curious though. You said you struggled with getting pregnant and that Mr Eze had a kid.” There was a long silence and Kunle feared he had again hit a nerve but he didn’t stop caressing her body. If she decides to not speak further on it, he’d understand.
“He has a kid, our son. Kunle, I never had a child of my own. I’ve tried, I’ve gone to hospitals here and abroad but they said my chances are slim. I’ve tried IVs and surrogacy. Everything failed, that boy up there__” She said pointing to one of the pictures on the wall. “Is his dead wife’s son, not mine. Kunle, I wish I never married him. Listen, I made lots of money. I have businesses and investments but I’m not happy here. He’s never here, he treats me like someone he hired to care for his son. He doesn’t even look at me, he does but not the way you do. Is it strange to ask you to take me away, Kunle?”
Kunle sighed, he understood her plight, her struggle and her pain. Despite being the first time she revealed that to him, Kunle felt a deep understanding.
“Will you come to the US with me? We can be happy together there and when I tell my parents about us and gets disowned, we can live our lives without worrying.”
“Are you serious?” Mrs Eze’s face lit up in happiness.
“Of course, my dearest Dunni. Of course.” Kunle leaned in for another kiss, another magical kiss that only lovers share.
Kunle dragged his feet behind him into the living room. Work that day was exhausting, his dad had left early and Kunle had to handle everything by himself. His father kept telling him that his experience at the office was only preparing him for the future when he would inherit the company. Kunle rolled his eyes at the thought, he never wanted that anyway but now, he knew better than to say that to his dad again.
Kunle walked into his family eating dinner at the table. His father had left him with all that work just just to relax at home, very typical of him.
“Kunle.” Mr Adejare’s bubbly voice rang from across the room. He waved Kunle over with a slight shake of his hand. “Join us. Your mother took it upon herself to cook dinner tonight.” He continued as he lifted a bolus of swallow to his mouth. “This,” He said, pointing to the bowl of soup in front of him. “Is super.” Which was his usual expression whenever he enjoyed a good meal. He’d say “This is super.”
“What was it anyway?” Kunle thought to himself. “Pounded yam or semovita?” He walked over and greeted before sitting himself at the table. And to Kunle’s disappointment, it was fufu. Kunle loves fufu but he was tired of eating it almost every other night. His father says pounded yam takes longer to digest and semovita was purely chemicals but then fufu to Kunle, takes much longer to digest.
“Lakunle, how was your day?” Mama asked like she always did. It was as if she was designed to ask how his day went or what he did or what he ate, she took it upon herself to ask about him and it never fails to warm Kunle’s heart.
“Life threatening. I hope to have better days than this. I had to attend to very grumpy clients that obviously want a piece of a Dubai type land in the mainland, not even here in the Island. How is that even possible?” Kunle explained as made himself a plate.
“You know son, it’s all for the best. When you’re finally in charge of the company, you’d look back at days like these and be grateful.” His father said without losing his happy tone. Kunle felt disgusted, at his father and at the fact that he couldn’t even speak his own mind.
Kunle washed his hands in a bowl and was about to dive into the meal when his phone’s notification sound went off. He quickly retrieved it from his pocket to check what it was, his face instantly lit up as he saw what was on the screen. It was a message from Dunni, he began to type his reply while he bared his teeth in a hearty grin.
“How many times have I told you to never bring your phone to the table?” Mrs Adejare said in a sharp tone that hinted anger. Kunle quickly tucked his phone back into his pocket.
“I’m sorry.” He bowed his head when he saw that he was now the new object of fascination as he received intent stares from his family. “I came straight to the table so I didn’t have time to put my phone away.”
“You should have at least put it on silent and you have no excuse for using it.” His mother added.
“Funke.” Mr Adejare called his wife coyly. “The boy already apologized, let him off easy this time.” He turned to face Kunle. “Young man, you should always listen to your mother. It’s not appropriate to use your phone at the table.”
“I’m sorry, sir. I promise to not do that again.” Kunle still has his head bowed.
“By the way, what message did you get to cause you to start grinning like a fool?” His mother said again which indicated that she was not going to let it go easily that evening.
“Yes Kunle, you should have seen your face. You looked like you were advertising closeup toothpaste.” Mr Adejare said with a chuckle. All these time, Mama said nothing. She looked from face to face and mouth to mouth, listening and observing.
“It was a meme.” Kunle said, he knew his response wasn’t satisfactory so he had to add something believable. “From a friend.”
“Wow, Kunle. Nice to know you’re finally making friends.” Mr Adejare gave his congratulations like it mattered. It was obvious that the man was in a good mood, maybe it was because of the food or there were other things.
“What friend?” His mother questioned.
“A friend.” Kunle was getting impatient, the conversation was taking a strange turn. His mother was never one to ask questions or care.
“Do we know this friend of yours?” She continued but this time, Mama jumped in Kunle’s defense.
“Funke, what’s all these about? He already apologized and besides, you can’t know all of his friends so just let it go.” Mama said in both frustration and confusion. Confused by the younger woman’s sudden interest in things she never bothered about.
“But Mama, I want to know this friend that he has now placed above us. This friend whose message deserves urgent response. This friend that he has just made but now worships.”
Kunle was more confused by his mother’s words. Has someone gotten her angry before he came home?
“Answer me, Kunle.” She demanded with a killer’s look in her eyes.
“Mom, it’s just some friend. And I’m so sorry for using my phone when I should have totally ignored it. This won’t repeat itself, I promise.”
“You heard him, Funke. Let the poor boy go.” His father said in a soothing voice that sounded foolish to Kunle.
In a normal home, the man is the head of the family and the dictator, his wife listens and does as told. The man doesn’t have to be a tyrant to be respected, he just has to stand his ground. But in the Adejare’s home, the reverse is the case, maybe it’s because the woman was the one who made the man who he is. Kunle’s father always indulged his wife and instead of correcting her or calling her to order, he’d wag his tail like a dog.
“Listen to me, Kunle.” His mother was not finished. “If you prefer to join the bad crowd and bring shame to this family, then you’re wrong. So, you’ve made friends with who? Cultists? And they’ve probably sent you a message to cause you to smile? If you ruin your life, then you’re so done.”
“What?” Kunle said, he was surprised by her take on things. “You didn’t even think it was a girl? You think I’m in a cult? After working fourteen hours, six days a week? You think I have time to do some cult thing? And when did you start caring about my life? You’ve always thrown your face to the wall. Where’s that energy suddenly coming from?”
“How dare you talk to your mother that way? Shut up this instant and apologize!” His father shouted.
“Apologize for what? You should be the one apologizing, especially to yourself. For being everything lesser than a man should be. You’re just your wife’s puppet whose strings are wrapped around her fingers.” Kunle had had enough. He had began talking and until he’s bared his mind, he has no plans to stop.
“Lakunle, that is enough!” Mama spoke for the third time since Kunle joined them.
“No Mama, not today.” Kunle rose from the table before he continued. “Both of you have a child that you don’t even care about. It’s like you were forced to have me. You’ve always turned a blind eye to me, you never cared or listened. You don’t even know what I want or what’s going on in my life. What I want is not your dumb company or this luxurious life that I’ve been taught to appreciate without an ounce of love. If the cult would accept me and love me and make me smile like a fool then it’s high time I joined.” Kunle turned and walked towards the main door.
He heard his parents’ surprise as they both let out ahs and ohs, he also heard Mama call his name but he had no plans of going back to that table that served a gourmet with little love. Kunle slammed the door behind him and walked into the cold compound of his home, the wind was strong and it was obvious that it will soon rain. He walked on till he reached the gate and without regarding the gateman, let himself out.
He walked on and on with no destination in mind, at least he felt better now that he had spoken his mind. He felt like a burden has been lifted off his shoulders, the air got colder and it started to rain.
Stories by www.cruisehub.live
