CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
"Literature of course", he raised his eyebrows slightly.
" Yh....sure", I adjusted my position on the tree branch I was sitting on. "So who goes first?
"You of course. 15 seconds to answer each question. Deal?"
"Deal", We hit our knuckles together as s sign of agreement.
"The loser buys the winner a gift for Christmas", he added."A Gucci gift bag to be more precise."
"Sure", I said proudly.
"What's simile?" I asked him.
"A comparison of two subjects using the word, like and as" he answered swiftly.
"Check, check!" I gave him a round of applause.
"What's ode?" Cleo asked at his turn.
"A stupid person in Yoruba" I answered and we both laughed.
"I don't need to tell you got it wrong, right?"He made a mockery of me.
"You pronounced the word with a Yoruba accent", I defended myself.
"Can you recollect what I said at the beginning of this game?"He asked.
"No", I was honest with him.
"I said the questions will be literature-based", he reminded me.
"Oh my goodness!"I realized my mistake a bit too late.
"I'm very sorry for interrupting but I really need your help right now", Bola reached out to me beneath the tree with her tiny voice.
" Okay", I give Cleo an apology look but he showed no sign of anger.
"It's alright, he smiled.
For the last few weeks, I begged that fish to allow me to tutor her thoroughly, but she wouldn't let me. Yet, she had the effrontery to ruin one of the most precious moments of my life and I had no choice but to help her.
I had to follow the 'sisters before misters' rule.
She complained to me that the teachers taking the subjects she did today each gave them an AOC, but in the exam hall, he gave an entirely set of questions so she wasn't sure if she each going to pass those subjects at all. So she had to perform well in the remaining subjects so grandma doesn't permanently kick her out of the house.
The subject she disturbed was for was agricultural science, otherwise known as the broadest subject in Junior high. And to make matters worse, she never went through the note even for once!
She wanted me to summarize it in short sentences so it'll be easier for her to digest.
When the school exam was finally over, Bola could watch different series of Indian telenovelas without being interrupted after the school's closing hour. She would have even stayed home but that wasn't allowed in Marie's high. You have to attend school till the last day of the term, except you have strong reasons to with concrete pieces of evidence to prove it.
I, on the other hand, was looking forward to the result of the presentation and interview I did with Cleo the other day. He really invested so much in it so I didn't want his efforts to go to waste.
"Hey. What's wrong?" Shola tapped me suddenly. "Why are you even here in the first place?"
"What do you mean? Where should I have been?" I asked her with a curious tone. She knew the library was the only place I loved hanging out since our examination was over.
"At the principal's office of course", she replied." You won the bid for the carol concert".
"Oh my God!" I screamed out loud, and gave her a hug."Thank you very much".
"I expected Cleo to have contacted you. Is everything alright?"Her statement surprised me.
" Yh...hold on a sec", I removed my phone from my purse to see the tons of wattsap, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook messages from Cleo, which I didn't reply. He even called, but my phone was in silent mode."Excuse me, I have to the admin block now".
"I'm coming with you", she followed me.
Cleo and I had lots of happy moments together, but the one we had that day was more special. As the principal handed over the signed contract documents to him on behalf of the board, his eyes were filled with overflowing joy. More than anything, I was happy to be part of his success story. I was glad he didn't lose contract despite what happened and resolved to do whatever it takes to make the carol one of a kind.
"So what's the next thing on our agenda?" I asked him as we moved out of the principal's office with our contact documents clutched firmly in my hands.
"We have a meeting with the play casts today, because it's a major part of the carol", he told me, and gave me a printed copy of the cast list."I'm going to see the arts HOD today so he can allow us to use the theatre room for the meeting, and inform those in my class. You will be able to handle the ones in your class right?"
"Sure", I clenched my fist." I'll take care of it, don't worry.
"The meeting is starting at 12 pm on the dot. See you then", he patted my shoulder and we parted ways.
Choosing a cast for each role wasn't as easy as I thought. I was also curious to know how Cleo planned to handle them since most of them hated being told what to do. I suggested that Rose should take the role of Omolanke- the loose daughter of King Obalaye but he wanted her to play the witch role instead.
I knew convincing Rose to play that role won't be easy because she was very obsessed with her queen bee lifestyle but I still had to try. We needed her to gain popularity for the show.
"All hail the queen!" I greeted Rose where she sat in the cafe with her squad having some shrimp spring rolls with peanut sauce and constantly checking herself out in a small mirror.
"To what or whose pleasure do I owe this visit", Surprisingly, she allowed me to sit with them and ordered a carton of fresh yogurt and hot egg roll on my behalf. I would have turned it down because I didn't feel hungry, but I couldn't afford to be in her black book now.
"Your beauty", I said and she laughed.
"That ass kissing bullshit doesn't work on me", She flipped her hair slightly."I already know why you're here".
Her words hit me like a bomb!
"Are you going to do it? I tried as much as possible not to sound nervous.
" You'll find out soon", she smirked.
Loveboy couldn't stop laughing, because I told him he was going to dress in royal regalia and act as king. He thought it was going to be the dumbest thing he's ever done yet he agreed to do it though he was supposed to be performing a show in Chicago that same day.
Timmy was to act as Bashorun but unfortunately, he wasn't in school that day because there was a fire outbreak at his dad's office the previous day. I tried calling him several to know if he'll be able to join us but he didn't answer. I was confused about what to do until a nigger appeared in front of me.
"You must be happy now that your Loverboy got the contract despite everything", Kelly Junior told me on my way to see Aisha Obafunwa - the school's choir leader in the music room. I had to meet with her so we can choose the perfect tunes for the play.
"Do you have any reason I shouldn't be that way?"I smiled.
" You're quite the tough one, aren't you?" he whispered into my ears.
"Thanks for the compliment. I heard you're in charge of the orphanage visiting day, congratulations", I offered him a hand.
"If you're really happy for me, then you should make yourself useful. Give me tips on how to go about it since you're very conversant with that area", He said arrogantly.
"How did you know that?"I was surprised to hear him say that. Everyone in Marie's high knew about my social status but I didn't think they cared about where I actually came from.
"The password to your old twitter account", He grinned.
"Oh my God!" I realized that he was the one who posted the video. "Why did you do that kind of thing? He was your best friend!"
"I also expected him to ask for my help but it seemed to be doing fine with you as his partner and that wasn't helping my reputation as his former godfather". He scoffed.
"Wow! Feels good to hear I made the great Kelly Junior swerve like a chicken", I decided to get back at him.
Though they didn't come at the exact time, Cleo was glad everyone including Rose made it for the meeting. After the introduction of the students present, he started calling the names of the casts and their partners. While doing that, Shola raised her hand to make it known that being Loveboy's partner is no good for her but he insisted that she works with him. With annoyance, she told him to accept whatever comes out of it and he gladly agreed.
Aside from Shola, no one else complained about their role or who they have to work with. Thereafter, I distributed the dialogue script for each character, and we adjourned the meeting until the next Monday when we chose to record a short video clip to promote the Carol event.
"It feels like I'm putting you through unnecessary stress. I'm sorry", Cleo said with pitiful eyes, after driving me round the whole of Lagos just to find the perfect Royal regalia for Loveboy. Still, we didn't find any and it seemed like we might have to go get it at Ibadan tomorrow.
"It's okay. I'm having so much fun", I take a sip of the Chapman which I ordered at a bar. We got very thirsty and needed something to drink so we had to come here because we couldn't find any variety stores around.
"I think you've had enough already, m.." He took my glass away from me and sniffed it to detect if there was any alcohol content in it because I was acting weird.
"Shh", I put my right hand over his mouth and laughed hysterically."Me? A minor? Of course not! I'm an adult trapped in the body of a....minor".
"Don't tell me you're tipsy!" His calm voice changed to a confused one.
"Of course not", I started acting normal again.
"Pheww", he still had to check my temperature and that was quite insulting."They make grill foods here as well, do you want any?"
"No", I took another sip of my drink, pretending it was alcohol." Aren't you going try my drink at all?"
"Hell no", he pushed it aside.
" Really? Can't you be a man for once?" I teased him.
"I don't need to take alcohol to prove that I'm a man. Its excess even makes one act in a non-manly way" He responded.
"Impressive!" I clapped for him.
"It's time to go home", he cleared our bill and led the way to the parking lot.
" I'll be leaving for IB very early in the morning, but you won't be coming with me", he said as we walked to the front door of Aunt Simi's apartment.
"Why?" I was already feeling lonely.
"I want you to keep an eye on Loveboy and Shola. You know they're the major characters for the play", He said.
"Why me? Michelle is also a team member, and she'll do great at that! I can't let you go on a long-distance journey alone", I was worried about his safety.
"Seriously?" He laughed."I might not be man enough to Miss Nifemi Adeoye but I'm not a kid. I don't like to impose my will on people but pleassssse do as I say, and save your strength and IQ for Monday. The meeting with mom has to go well so we can have money to print the tickets".
"Okay. Take care", I finally listened to him.
"Stay safe and don't overdo things", he waved to me before driving off.
All through the night, I stayed awake thinking about Cleo's safety and praying for his success for his trip then around 5 am when my dizzy eyes forced me to lay on the bed. Not quite long, he also called to inform me his bus already took off and I wished him good luck.
At 12 pm, Bola entered the room to sprinkle some cold water on me just so I could stop being lazy and go downstairs to see Shola who was waiting for me downstairs.
"You were supposed to come to my house at 10 but you didn't. I even came to your house but you wouldn't give me quality attention. O ga oo", Shola hissed.
"I said I'm sorry now", I gave her an apology hug." When did you turn Tiwa Savage bayii?"
"Whatever", She ignored me and focused on her script.
"What did you say is the nature of our starboy's sickness?"I asked Doctor Show who wanted to drive us to Loveboy's apartment because he was feeling sick.
"I can't say for now. I need to examine him first", he replied.
" It's normal ", Shola looked worried"He usually gets sick during harmattan. The weather is not so friendly with him".
" Ok, but we're taking things easy okay?" I tried to pacify her.
"Of course!" She rolled her eyes at me."I'm not his girlfriend for crying out loud".
Shola did the exact opposite of what she promised me. Even before Doctor show got his kits ready to examine him, she applied some balms on his body. She also scolded him for staying in the house alone and not looking after his health because Pupo went for her grandma's funeral service.
After that, she allowed Doctor Show to do his thing and while was doing that, I followed her to the kitchen to make something edible for the sick dude. In one of the drawers, she saw a carton of oats and she mixed it in a bowl before pouring it into a pot of hot water to boil.
As she was preparing the meal, I teased her by asking if she's going to stay over because Pupo isn't around but instead of frowning and yelling at me, she smiled. Well, I was experiencing something similar to hers so I knew how she felt.
Having noticed I suddenly kept my mouth shut for too long, She asked about Cleo's whereabouts to start a new conversation and I told her where exactly he was since I was keeping track of him like a baby.
After dishing the oatmeal in a bowl, Shola took it to Loveboy's room with me standing behind her like a bodyguard. He refused to eat until she fed him. She also stubbornly said no to the idea but after several pleas from him, she agreed to it. Joyfully, he swallowed everything in the bowl and fell asleep.
"Kabiyesi olowo ori mi, she ko si? Are you not happy with the food I made?"Shola rehearsed her role in the play, waiting to get an appraisal from me.
"Your facial expression is not real enough. You need to loosen up a bit", I told her, feeling like a professional director.
"See madam director", she laughed."Can you even do half of this?"
"I would have done more if I had the calling", I bragged.
"Of course, your cooking is the best. Your mum taught you well, and you listened to her", Loveboy joined us in the living room after several hours of bed rest.
"Bravo!" I clapped him."How did you manage to learn those lines so quickly?"
"Because I'm gen...." he sneezed.
" Sorry", Shola gave him a handkerchief to clean his runny nose."Are you really going to remain in this house all by yourself?"
"Yes, boo", he went to the kitchen to make himself a hot cup of coffee." I'm not a toddler. I can handle myself"
"Look who's talking", I laughed." If you could take good care of yourself, why call Doctor Show?"
"Let him say whatever he wants. I'm not letting him stay here alone", Shola didn't take things lightly with him.
" Are you going to stay here with me then? I'd be honored", he blushed.
Eventually, Loveboy agreed to move back to his parent's house for the time being after giving Shola the condition that she comes over to keep his company. That was way better because it would give them the opportunity to fix their problem and rehearse more for the play.
Before he heading to his parent's home with Shola, Loveboy dropped me at home first. Since the sun was not completely down, I sat on a branch of the apple tree reminiscing the good memories with Cleo because I because nothing to do. A few minutes later, he walked up to me looking drained.
"Oh my God!" I jumped down from the tree to give a hug."How was the trip? You look very exhausted! I'm so sorry".
"What's your fault in this? You're so funny", he laughed." I really missed having my partner-in-crime beside me back there".
"Awwn", I smiled." Were you able to get the costume?"
"Well...", he pulled my leg by frowning at first, then loosened up." I did...I got the most expensive one".
"Yes!" I jumped in excitement then give him a mild punch on his chest."You almost gave me a heartache!"
"I'm sorry", I ushered him inside our apartment so he would get a shower, change from his sweaty clothes and taste Aunt Simi's delicious apon soup with different species of seafood and hot eba.
A/N: Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter? If you did, please don't hesitate to share it with your family and friends. If you have any questions or observations, you can drop it in the comment section. Thanks for reading.
Yours teenfictionly,
Eniola Oluwamuyiwa
"Literature of course", he raised his eyebrows slightly.
" Yh....sure", I adjusted my position on the tree branch I was sitting on. "So who goes first?
"You of course. 15 seconds to answer each question. Deal?"
"Deal", We hit our knuckles together as s sign of agreement.
"The loser buys the winner a gift for Christmas", he added."A Gucci gift bag to be more precise."
"Sure", I said proudly.
"What's simile?" I asked him.
"A comparison of two subjects using the word, like and as" he answered swiftly.
"Check, check!" I gave him a round of applause.
"What's ode?" Cleo asked at his turn.
"A stupid person in Yoruba" I answered and we both laughed.
"I don't need to tell you got it wrong, right?"He made a mockery of me.
"You pronounced the word with a Yoruba accent", I defended myself.
"Can you recollect what I said at the beginning of this game?"He asked.
"No", I was honest with him.
"I said the questions will be literature-based", he reminded me.
"Oh my goodness!"I realized my mistake a bit too late.
"I'm very sorry for interrupting but I really need your help right now", Bola reached out to me beneath the tree with her tiny voice.
" Okay", I give Cleo an apology look but he showed no sign of anger.
"It's alright, he smiled.
For the last few weeks, I begged that fish to allow me to tutor her thoroughly, but she wouldn't let me. Yet, she had the effrontery to ruin one of the most precious moments of my life and I had no choice but to help her.
I had to follow the 'sisters before misters' rule.
She complained to me that the teachers taking the subjects she did today each gave them an AOC, but in the exam hall, he gave an entirely set of questions so she wasn't sure if she each going to pass those subjects at all. So she had to perform well in the remaining subjects so grandma doesn't permanently kick her out of the house.
The subject she disturbed was for was agricultural science, otherwise known as the broadest subject in Junior high. And to make matters worse, she never went through the note even for once!
She wanted me to summarize it in short sentences so it'll be easier for her to digest.
When the school exam was finally over, Bola could watch different series of Indian telenovelas without being interrupted after the school's closing hour. She would have even stayed home but that wasn't allowed in Marie's high. You have to attend school till the last day of the term, except you have strong reasons to with concrete pieces of evidence to prove it.
I, on the other hand, was looking forward to the result of the presentation and interview I did with Cleo the other day. He really invested so much in it so I didn't want his efforts to go to waste.
"Hey. What's wrong?" Shola tapped me suddenly. "Why are you even here in the first place?"
"What do you mean? Where should I have been?" I asked her with a curious tone. She knew the library was the only place I loved hanging out since our examination was over.
"At the principal's office of course", she replied." You won the bid for the carol concert".
"Oh my God!" I screamed out loud, and gave her a hug."Thank you very much".
"I expected Cleo to have contacted you. Is everything alright?"Her statement surprised me.
" Yh...hold on a sec", I removed my phone from my purse to see the tons of wattsap, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook messages from Cleo, which I didn't reply. He even called, but my phone was in silent mode."Excuse me, I have to the admin block now".
"I'm coming with you", she followed me.
Cleo and I had lots of happy moments together, but the one we had that day was more special. As the principal handed over the signed contract documents to him on behalf of the board, his eyes were filled with overflowing joy. More than anything, I was happy to be part of his success story. I was glad he didn't lose contract despite what happened and resolved to do whatever it takes to make the carol one of a kind.
"So what's the next thing on our agenda?" I asked him as we moved out of the principal's office with our contact documents clutched firmly in my hands.
"We have a meeting with the play casts today, because it's a major part of the carol", he told me, and gave me a printed copy of the cast list."I'm going to see the arts HOD today so he can allow us to use the theatre room for the meeting, and inform those in my class. You will be able to handle the ones in your class right?"
"Sure", I clenched my fist." I'll take care of it, don't worry.
"The meeting is starting at 12 pm on the dot. See you then", he patted my shoulder and we parted ways.
Choosing a cast for each role wasn't as easy as I thought. I was also curious to know how Cleo planned to handle them since most of them hated being told what to do. I suggested that Rose should take the role of Omolanke- the loose daughter of King Obalaye but he wanted her to play the witch role instead.
I knew convincing Rose to play that role won't be easy because she was very obsessed with her queen bee lifestyle but I still had to try. We needed her to gain popularity for the show.
"All hail the queen!" I greeted Rose where she sat in the cafe with her squad having some shrimp spring rolls with peanut sauce and constantly checking herself out in a small mirror.
"To what or whose pleasure do I owe this visit", Surprisingly, she allowed me to sit with them and ordered a carton of fresh yogurt and hot egg roll on my behalf. I would have turned it down because I didn't feel hungry, but I couldn't afford to be in her black book now.
"Your beauty", I said and she laughed.
"That ass kissing bullshit doesn't work on me", She flipped her hair slightly."I already know why you're here".
Her words hit me like a bomb!
"Are you going to do it? I tried as much as possible not to sound nervous.
" You'll find out soon", she smirked.
Loveboy couldn't stop laughing, because I told him he was going to dress in royal regalia and act as king. He thought it was going to be the dumbest thing he's ever done yet he agreed to do it though he was supposed to be performing a show in Chicago that same day.
Timmy was to act as Bashorun but unfortunately, he wasn't in school that day because there was a fire outbreak at his dad's office the previous day. I tried calling him several to know if he'll be able to join us but he didn't answer. I was confused about what to do until a nigger appeared in front of me.
"You must be happy now that your Loverboy got the contract despite everything", Kelly Junior told me on my way to see Aisha Obafunwa - the school's choir leader in the music room. I had to meet with her so we can choose the perfect tunes for the play.
"Do you have any reason I shouldn't be that way?"I smiled.
" You're quite the tough one, aren't you?" he whispered into my ears.
"Thanks for the compliment. I heard you're in charge of the orphanage visiting day, congratulations", I offered him a hand.
"If you're really happy for me, then you should make yourself useful. Give me tips on how to go about it since you're very conversant with that area", He said arrogantly.
"How did you know that?"I was surprised to hear him say that. Everyone in Marie's high knew about my social status but I didn't think they cared about where I actually came from.
"The password to your old twitter account", He grinned.
"Oh my God!" I realized that he was the one who posted the video. "Why did you do that kind of thing? He was your best friend!"
"I also expected him to ask for my help but it seemed to be doing fine with you as his partner and that wasn't helping my reputation as his former godfather". He scoffed.
"Wow! Feels good to hear I made the great Kelly Junior swerve like a chicken", I decided to get back at him.
Though they didn't come at the exact time, Cleo was glad everyone including Rose made it for the meeting. After the introduction of the students present, he started calling the names of the casts and their partners. While doing that, Shola raised her hand to make it known that being Loveboy's partner is no good for her but he insisted that she works with him. With annoyance, she told him to accept whatever comes out of it and he gladly agreed.
Aside from Shola, no one else complained about their role or who they have to work with. Thereafter, I distributed the dialogue script for each character, and we adjourned the meeting until the next Monday when we chose to record a short video clip to promote the Carol event.
"It feels like I'm putting you through unnecessary stress. I'm sorry", Cleo said with pitiful eyes, after driving me round the whole of Lagos just to find the perfect Royal regalia for Loveboy. Still, we didn't find any and it seemed like we might have to go get it at Ibadan tomorrow.
"It's okay. I'm having so much fun", I take a sip of the Chapman which I ordered at a bar. We got very thirsty and needed something to drink so we had to come here because we couldn't find any variety stores around.
"I think you've had enough already, m.." He took my glass away from me and sniffed it to detect if there was any alcohol content in it because I was acting weird.
"Shh", I put my right hand over his mouth and laughed hysterically."Me? A minor? Of course not! I'm an adult trapped in the body of a....minor".
"Don't tell me you're tipsy!" His calm voice changed to a confused one.
"Of course not", I started acting normal again.
"Pheww", he still had to check my temperature and that was quite insulting."They make grill foods here as well, do you want any?"
"No", I took another sip of my drink, pretending it was alcohol." Aren't you going try my drink at all?"
"Hell no", he pushed it aside.
" Really? Can't you be a man for once?" I teased him.
"I don't need to take alcohol to prove that I'm a man. Its excess even makes one act in a non-manly way" He responded.
"Impressive!" I clapped for him.
"It's time to go home", he cleared our bill and led the way to the parking lot.
" I'll be leaving for IB very early in the morning, but you won't be coming with me", he said as we walked to the front door of Aunt Simi's apartment.
"Why?" I was already feeling lonely.
"I want you to keep an eye on Loveboy and Shola. You know they're the major characters for the play", He said.
"Why me? Michelle is also a team member, and she'll do great at that! I can't let you go on a long-distance journey alone", I was worried about his safety.
"Seriously?" He laughed."I might not be man enough to Miss Nifemi Adeoye but I'm not a kid. I don't like to impose my will on people but pleassssse do as I say, and save your strength and IQ for Monday. The meeting with mom has to go well so we can have money to print the tickets".
"Okay. Take care", I finally listened to him.
"Stay safe and don't overdo things", he waved to me before driving off.
All through the night, I stayed awake thinking about Cleo's safety and praying for his success for his trip then around 5 am when my dizzy eyes forced me to lay on the bed. Not quite long, he also called to inform me his bus already took off and I wished him good luck.
At 12 pm, Bola entered the room to sprinkle some cold water on me just so I could stop being lazy and go downstairs to see Shola who was waiting for me downstairs.
"You were supposed to come to my house at 10 but you didn't. I even came to your house but you wouldn't give me quality attention. O ga oo", Shola hissed.
"I said I'm sorry now", I gave her an apology hug." When did you turn Tiwa Savage bayii?"
"Whatever", She ignored me and focused on her script.
"What did you say is the nature of our starboy's sickness?"I asked Doctor Show who wanted to drive us to Loveboy's apartment because he was feeling sick.
"I can't say for now. I need to examine him first", he replied.
" It's normal ", Shola looked worried"He usually gets sick during harmattan. The weather is not so friendly with him".
" Ok, but we're taking things easy okay?" I tried to pacify her.
"Of course!" She rolled her eyes at me."I'm not his girlfriend for crying out loud".
Shola did the exact opposite of what she promised me. Even before Doctor show got his kits ready to examine him, she applied some balms on his body. She also scolded him for staying in the house alone and not looking after his health because Pupo went for her grandma's funeral service.
After that, she allowed Doctor Show to do his thing and while was doing that, I followed her to the kitchen to make something edible for the sick dude. In one of the drawers, she saw a carton of oats and she mixed it in a bowl before pouring it into a pot of hot water to boil.
As she was preparing the meal, I teased her by asking if she's going to stay over because Pupo isn't around but instead of frowning and yelling at me, she smiled. Well, I was experiencing something similar to hers so I knew how she felt.
Having noticed I suddenly kept my mouth shut for too long, She asked about Cleo's whereabouts to start a new conversation and I told her where exactly he was since I was keeping track of him like a baby.
After dishing the oatmeal in a bowl, Shola took it to Loveboy's room with me standing behind her like a bodyguard. He refused to eat until she fed him. She also stubbornly said no to the idea but after several pleas from him, she agreed to it. Joyfully, he swallowed everything in the bowl and fell asleep.
"Kabiyesi olowo ori mi, she ko si? Are you not happy with the food I made?"Shola rehearsed her role in the play, waiting to get an appraisal from me.
"Your facial expression is not real enough. You need to loosen up a bit", I told her, feeling like a professional director.
"See madam director", she laughed."Can you even do half of this?"
"I would have done more if I had the calling", I bragged.
"Of course, your cooking is the best. Your mum taught you well, and you listened to her", Loveboy joined us in the living room after several hours of bed rest.
"Bravo!" I clapped him."How did you manage to learn those lines so quickly?"
"Because I'm gen...." he sneezed.
" Sorry", Shola gave him a handkerchief to clean his runny nose."Are you really going to remain in this house all by yourself?"
"Yes, boo", he went to the kitchen to make himself a hot cup of coffee." I'm not a toddler. I can handle myself"
"Look who's talking", I laughed." If you could take good care of yourself, why call Doctor Show?"
"Let him say whatever he wants. I'm not letting him stay here alone", Shola didn't take things lightly with him.
" Are you going to stay here with me then? I'd be honored", he blushed.
Eventually, Loveboy agreed to move back to his parent's house for the time being after giving Shola the condition that she comes over to keep his company. That was way better because it would give them the opportunity to fix their problem and rehearse more for the play.
Before he heading to his parent's home with Shola, Loveboy dropped me at home first. Since the sun was not completely down, I sat on a branch of the apple tree reminiscing the good memories with Cleo because I because nothing to do. A few minutes later, he walked up to me looking drained.
"Oh my God!" I jumped down from the tree to give a hug."How was the trip? You look very exhausted! I'm so sorry".
"What's your fault in this? You're so funny", he laughed." I really missed having my partner-in-crime beside me back there".
"Awwn", I smiled." Were you able to get the costume?"
"Well...", he pulled my leg by frowning at first, then loosened up." I did...I got the most expensive one".
"Yes!" I jumped in excitement then give him a mild punch on his chest."You almost gave me a heartache!"
"I'm sorry", I ushered him inside our apartment so he would get a shower, change from his sweaty clothes and taste Aunt Simi's delicious apon soup with different species of seafood and hot eba.
A/N: Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter? If you did, please don't hesitate to share it with your family and friends. If you have any questions or observations, you can drop it in the comment section. Thanks for reading.
Yours teenfictionly,
Eniola Oluwamuyiwa
"Literature of course", he raised his eyebrows slightly.
" Yh....sure", I adjusted my position on the tree branch I was sitting on. "So who goes first?
"You of course. 15 seconds to answer each question. Deal?"
"Deal", We hit our knuckles together as s sign of agreement.
"The loser buys the winner a gift for Christmas", he added."A Gucci gift bag to be more precise."
"Sure", I said proudly.
"What's simile?" I asked him.
"A comparison of two subjects using the word, like and as" he answered swiftly.
"Check, check!" I gave him a round of applause.
"What's ode?" Cleo asked at his turn.
"A stupid person in Yoruba" I answered and we both laughed.
"I don't need to tell you got it wrong, right?"He made a mockery of me.
"You pronounced the word with a Yoruba accent", I defended myself.
"Can you recollect what I said at the beginning of this game?"He asked.
"No", I was honest with him.
"I said the questions will be literature-based", he reminded me.
"Oh my goodness!"I realized my mistake a bit too late.
"I'm very sorry for interrupting but I really need your help right now", Bola reached out to me beneath the tree with her tiny voice.
" Okay", I give Cleo an apology look but he showed no sign of anger.
"It's alright, he smiled.
For the last few weeks, I begged that fish to allow me to tutor her thoroughly, but she wouldn't let me. Yet, she had the effrontery to ruin one of the most precious moments of my life and I had no choice but to help her.
I had to follow the 'sisters before misters' rule.
She complained to me that the teachers taking the subjects she did today each gave them an AOC, but in the exam hall, he gave an entirely set of questions so she wasn't sure if she each going to pass those subjects at all. So she had to perform well in the remaining subjects so grandma doesn't permanently kick her out of the house.
The subject she disturbed was for was agricultural science, otherwise known as the broadest subject in Junior high. And to make matters worse, she never went through the note even for once!
She wanted me to summarize it in short sentences so it'll be easier for her to digest.
When the school exam was finally over, Bola could watch different series of Indian telenovelas without being interrupted after the school's closing hour. She would have even stayed home but that wasn't allowed in Marie's high. You have to attend school till the last day of the term, except you have strong reasons to with concrete pieces of evidence to prove it.
I, on the other hand, was looking forward to the result of the presentation and interview I did with Cleo the other day. He really invested so much in it so I didn't want his efforts to go to waste.
"Hey. What's wrong?" Shola tapped me suddenly. "Why are you even here in the first place?"
"What do you mean? Where should I have been?" I asked her with a curious tone. She knew the library was the only place I loved hanging out since our examination was over.
"At the principal's office of course", she replied." You won the bid for the carol concert".
"Oh my God!" I screamed out loud, and gave her a hug."Thank you very much".
"I expected Cleo to have contacted you. Is everything alright?"Her statement surprised me.
" Yh...hold on a sec", I removed my phone from my purse to see the tons of wattsap, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook messages from Cleo, which I didn't reply. He even called, but my phone was in silent mode."Excuse me, I have to the admin block now".
"I'm coming with you", she followed me.
Cleo and I had lots of happy moments together, but the one we had that day was more special. As the principal handed over the signed contract documents to him on behalf of the board, his eyes were filled with overflowing joy. More than anything, I was happy to be part of his success story. I was glad he didn't lose contract despite what happened and resolved to do whatever it takes to make the carol one of a kind.
"So what's the next thing on our agenda?" I asked him as we moved out of the principal's office with our contact documents clutched firmly in my hands.
"We have a meeting with the play casts today, because it's a major part of the carol", he told me, and gave me a printed copy of the cast list."I'm going to see the arts HOD today so he can allow us to use the theatre room for the meeting, and inform those in my class. You will be able to handle the ones in your class right?"
"Sure", I clenched my fist." I'll take care of it, don't worry.
"The meeting is starting at 12 pm on the dot. See you then", he patted my shoulder and we parted ways.
Choosing a cast for each role wasn't as easy as I thought. I was also curious to know how Cleo planned to handle them since most of them hated being told what to do. I suggested that Rose should take the role of Omolanke- the loose daughter of King Obalaye but he wanted her to play the witch role instead.
I knew convincing Rose to play that role won't be easy because she was very obsessed with her queen bee lifestyle but I still had to try. We needed her to gain popularity for the show.
"All hail the queen!" I greeted Rose where she sat in the cafe with her squad having some shrimp spring rolls with peanut sauce and constantly checking herself out in a small mirror.
"To what or whose pleasure do I owe this visit", Surprisingly, she allowed me to sit with them and ordered a carton of fresh yogurt and hot egg roll on my behalf. I would have turned it down because I didn't feel hungry, but I couldn't afford to be in her black book now.
"Your beauty", I said and she laughed.
"That ass kissing bullshit doesn't work on me", She flipped her hair slightly."I already know why you're here".
Her words hit me like a bomb!
"Are you going to do it? I tried as much as possible not to sound nervous.
" You'll find out soon", she smirked.
Loveboy couldn't stop laughing, because I told him he was going to dress in royal regalia and act as king. He thought it was going to be the dumbest thing he's ever done yet he agreed to do it though he was supposed to be performing a show in Chicago that same day.
Timmy was to act as Bashorun but unfortunately, he wasn't in school that day because there was a fire outbreak at his dad's office the previous day. I tried calling him several to know if he'll be able to join us but he didn't answer. I was confused about what to do until a nigger appeared in front of me.
"You must be happy now that your Loverboy got the contract despite everything", Kelly Junior told me on my way to see Aisha Obafunwa - the school's choir leader in the music room. I had to meet with her so we can choose the perfect tunes for the play.
"Do you have any reason I shouldn't be that way?"I smiled.
" You're quite the tough one, aren't you?" he whispered into my ears.
"Thanks for the compliment. I heard you're in charge of the orphanage visiting day, congratulations", I offered him a hand.
"If you're really happy for me, then you should make yourself useful. Give me tips on how to go about it since you're very conversant with that area", He said arrogantly.
"How did you know that?"I was surprised to hear him say that. Everyone in Marie's high knew about my social status but I didn't think they cared about where I actually came from.
"The password to your old twitter account", He grinned.
"Oh my God!" I realized that he was the one who posted the video. "Why did you do that kind of thing? He was your best friend!"
"I also expected him to ask for my help but it seemed to be doing fine with you as his partner and that wasn't helping my reputation as his former godfather". He scoffed.
"Wow! Feels good to hear I made the great Kelly Junior swerve like a chicken", I decided to get back at him.
Though they didn't come at the exact time, Cleo was glad everyone including Rose made it for the meeting. After the introduction of the students present, he started calling the names of the casts and their partners. While doing that, Shola raised her hand to make it known that being Loveboy's partner is no good for her but he insisted that she works with him. With annoyance, she told him to accept whatever comes out of it and he gladly agreed.
Aside from Shola, no one else complained about their role or who they have to work with. Thereafter, I distributed the dialogue script for each character, and we adjourned the meeting until the next Monday when we chose to record a short video clip to promote the Carol event.
"It feels like I'm putting you through unnecessary stress. I'm sorry", Cleo said with pitiful eyes, after driving me round the whole of Lagos just to find the perfect Royal regalia for Loveboy. Still, we didn't find any and it seemed like we might have to go get it at Ibadan tomorrow.
"It's okay. I'm having so much fun", I take a sip of the Chapman which I ordered at a bar. We got very thirsty and needed something to drink so we had to come here because we couldn't find any variety stores around.
"I think you've had enough already, m.." He took my glass away from me and sniffed it to detect if there was any alcohol content in it because I was acting weird.
"Shh", I put my right hand over his mouth and laughed hysterically."Me? A minor? Of course not! I'm an adult trapped in the body of a....minor".
"Don't tell me you're tipsy!" His calm voice changed to a confused one.
"Of course not", I started acting normal again.
"Pheww", he still had to check my temperature and that was quite insulting."They make grill foods here as well, do you want any?"
"No", I took another sip of my drink, pretending it was alcohol." Aren't you going try my drink at all?"
"Hell no", he pushed it aside.
" Really? Can't you be a man for once?" I teased him.
"I don't need to take alcohol to prove that I'm a man. Its excess even makes one act in a non-manly way" He responded.
"Impressive!" I clapped for him.
"It's time to go home", he cleared our bill and led the way to the parking lot.
" I'll be leaving for IB very early in the morning, but you won't be coming with me", he said as we walked to the front door of Aunt Simi's apartment.
"Why?" I was already feeling lonely.
"I want you to keep an eye on Loveboy and Shola. You know they're the major characters for the play", He said.
"Why me? Michelle is also a team member, and she'll do great at that! I can't let you go on a long-distance journey alone", I was worried about his safety.
"Seriously?" He laughed."I might not be man enough to Miss Nifemi Adeoye but I'm not a kid. I don't like to impose my will on people but pleassssse do as I say, and save your strength and IQ for Monday. The meeting with mom has to go well so we can have money to print the tickets".
"Okay. Take care", I finally listened to him.
"Stay safe and don't overdo things", he waved to me before driving off.
All through the night, I stayed awake thinking about Cleo's safety and praying for his success for his trip then around 5 am when my dizzy eyes forced me to lay on the bed. Not quite long, he also called to inform me his bus already took off and I wished him good luck.
At 12 pm, Bola entered the room to sprinkle some cold water on me just so I could stop being lazy and go downstairs to see Shola who was waiting for me downstairs.
"You were supposed to come to my house at 10 but you didn't. I even came to your house but you wouldn't give me quality attention. O ga oo", Shola hissed.
"I said I'm sorry now", I gave her an apology hug." When did you turn Tiwa Savage bayii?"
"Whatever", She ignored me and focused on her script.
"What did you say is the nature of our starboy's sickness?"I asked Doctor Show who wanted to drive us to Loveboy's apartment because he was feeling sick.
"I can't say for now. I need to examine him first", he replied.
" It's normal ", Shola looked worried"He usually gets sick during harmattan. The weather is not so friendly with him".
" Ok, but we're taking things easy okay?" I tried to pacify her.
"Of course!" She rolled her eyes at me."I'm not his girlfriend for crying out loud".
Shola did the exact opposite of what she promised me. Even before Doctor show got his kits ready to examine him, she applied some balms on his body. She also scolded him for staying in the house alone and not looking after his health because Pupo went for her grandma's funeral service.
After that, she allowed Doctor Show to do his thing and while was doing that, I followed her to the kitchen to make something edible for the sick dude. In one of the drawers, she saw a carton of oats and she mixed it in a bowl before pouring it into a pot of hot water to boil.
As she was preparing the meal, I teased her by asking if she's going to stay over because Pupo isn't around but instead of frowning and yelling at me, she smiled. Well, I was experiencing something similar to hers so I knew how she felt.
Having noticed I suddenly kept my mouth shut for too long, She asked about Cleo's whereabouts to start a new conversation and I told her where exactly he was since I was keeping track of him like a baby.
After dishing the oatmeal in a bowl, Shola took it to Loveboy's room with me standing behind her like a bodyguard. He refused to eat until she fed him. She also stubbornly said no to the idea but after several pleas from him, she agreed to it. Joyfully, he swallowed everything in the bowl and fell asleep.
"Kabiyesi olowo ori mi, she ko si? Are you not happy with the food I made?"Shola rehearsed her role in the play, waiting to get an appraisal from me.
"Your facial expression is not real enough. You need to loosen up a bit", I told her, feeling like a professional director.
"See madam director", she laughed."Can you even do half of this?"
"I would have done more if I had the calling", I bragged.
"Of course, your cooking is the best. Your mum taught you well, and you listened to her", Loveboy joined us in the living room after several hours of bed rest.
"Bravo!" I clapped him."How did you manage to learn those lines so quickly?"
"Because I'm gen...." he sneezed.
" Sorry", Shola gave him a handkerchief to clean his runny nose."Are you really going to remain in this house all by yourself?"
"Yes, boo", he went to the kitchen to make himself a hot cup of coffee." I'm not a toddler. I can handle myself"
"Look who's talking", I laughed." If you could take good care of yourself, why call Doctor Show?"
"Let him say whatever he wants. I'm not letting him stay here alone", Shola didn't take things lightly with him.
" Are you going to stay here with me then? I'd be honored", he blushed.
Eventually, Loveboy agreed to move back to his parent's house for the time being after giving Shola the condition that she comes over to keep his company. That was way better because it would give them the opportunity to fix their problem and rehearse more for the play.
Before he heading to his parent's home with Shola, Loveboy dropped me at home first. Since the sun was not completely down, I sat on a branch of the apple tree reminiscing the good memories with Cleo because I because nothing to do. A few minutes later, he walked up to me looking drained.
"Oh my God!" I jumped down from the tree to give a hug."How was the trip? You look very exhausted! I'm so sorry".
"What's your fault in this? You're so funny", he laughed." I really missed having my partner-in-crime beside me back there".
"Awwn", I smiled." Were you able to get the costume?"
"Well...", he pulled my leg by frowning at first, then loosened up." I did...I got the most expensive one".
"Yes!" I jumped in excitement then give him a mild punch on his chest."You almost gave me a heartache!"
"I'm sorry", I ushered him inside our apartment so he would get a shower, change from his sweaty clothes and taste Aunt Simi's delicious apon soup with different species of seafood and hot eba.
A/N: Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter? If you did, please don't hesitate to share it with your family and friends. If you have any questions or observations, you can drop it in the comment section. Thanks for reading.
Yours teenfictionly,
Eniola Oluwamuyiwa
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