The Sour Seed

       THE SOUR SEED

My name is Adebola and this is my story.

I finally chatted him up 'Hi, good afternoon, we need to talk, something is up'. I waited for minutes, then hours, I could no longer hold it, so I called him, 'Hello, did you get my message on WhatsApp?' From the tune of his voice, I knew he knew and I knew his answer already. 'lets chat on WhatsApp' I said. It was like it took him years to give a response 'okay'. As I ended the call, I burst into tears and couldn't control myself.

Then the message came in 'good evening, what's up'. I made up my mind to go straight to the point. 'I missed my period, I am three weeks out', 'Alright, I'm listening' he replied. 'I just took the home pregnancy test, It's positive'. Seconds stretched into minutes and still no reply from him. I continued crying as I kept starring at my phone, then it happened 'do you want us to talk about it? because I can remember that night you came to my room, we used withdrawal method.' I slipped off the arm chair I was on and wept in reckless abandonment upon hearing reading those words.

How could he say something like that, doesn't he know that withdrawal method is not 100% Safe, or am I chatting with the wrong person? I said to myself. I summoned morale to continue the conversation, 'What exactly are you trying to say?' 'am not responsible for your pregnancy. I was already suspicious you were trying to lure me into your devilish plan, I am not the only one you are seeing, so just stop it, get rid of it and don't disturb my life in any way'.

I have always been a mummy's girl, I wouldn't take decisions without my parents, but when it comes to love, I see myself as old enough to handle such. So when I made up my mind to succumb to his pressure, I believed myself to be making the right decision, at least I thought. Bolaji my last boyfriend really loved me despite everything people said about couples having sexual relations outside marriage. 

I never would have believed Tomiwa would break my heart. I couldn't help but remember the first time we met at New Buka, on campus. Looking ravishing in his casuals, pink lips and golden eyes, I felt I have met my heart throb. How I love to explore, and the moment Tomiwa said he was a part 4 medical student, I felt connected to him instantly. As a part 3 English student, my ascination grew and it developed into something more than I can even explain.

Now, here I am, my mother's words hunting me 'you are responsible for every decisions you make', still on the floor blaming myself 'why did I go to his room that night? I should have insisted on No, and stood my grounds, why? We had agreed on no sex at the beginning, how could I have been so stupid'. I wept and wept, till I could signal my tear gland informing me that it will soon run out of water. No one was there to console me, all I could see was my parent's faces, 'How disappointed they would be', I was their joy, their pride, their muse 'Oh how could  I do this to them, to myself, to God.' I knew I got away the first time I did it. I should have just taken the hint. Life just has a way of dealing with me doesn't it!? I have a decision to make but tonight, i would just let the tears fall.

What should she do?

Inform her parents?
Talk to a friend?
Keep the pregnancy.
Abort it?
Drop out of school and keep the pregnancy secret?
Blackmail Tomiwa and drag him into accepting the pregnancy?
Run away?

We will love to hear from you as your comments and contributions will go a long way and will be highly appreciated. 

Something Good Lost 3- The Conclusion

      Something Good Lost 3
           (The Conclusion)

................She did not stop pleading to see him and he in return did not stop saying "it isn't the right time". She even begged for pictures of him but he refused and told her to focus on her studies that they would meet when it's right. Then the long awaited day came.

It's been two years since that first text message Lilian got from Ayomide and still he hasn't agreed for them to meet yet. It was December 25th, Lilian's family had traveled to the village for Christmas to celebrate with nephews,cousins,aunts and uncles. There was a lot of catching up to do with family members and plenty of food to eat. Ayomide and Lilian were on call as usual and he asked why she didn't sound happy. "It's you. I want to see you" she replied sadly. "Alright then" he muttered. "Give the phone to your mum" she quickly dragged her mum from the other members of the family and gave her the phone. 

After speaking with Ayomide for sometime,her mum gave her back the phone. "She agreed" he said. "I was asking for her permission before I let you come. I would transfer some money to your account,it should cover your transport fare and any other thing you need. When you get to Asaba, let me know." And he hung up. "Mummy did you really agree?" She asked her mum surprisingly, considering the fact that she was the person always showing her news report on girls who get killed from visiting strangers they met on social medias." Yes, you can go. I believe you're in safe hands. Asaba is just an hour and thirty minutes drive from here. Make sure you return before it gets dark." She was shocked at this reply from her mum. What Magic did Ayomide use on her? she thought.

This was very unlike her mother. Letting her to travel to see a stranger. "Mummy why" she asked angrily, "Is it because he is wealthy?" She gave her mum a stern look "Shut up!" Her mum yelled at her, "Would you have told me if he hasn't asked for my permission? Wouldn't you have dodged out and travelled anyway? Ayomide is a good person and my spirit accepts him" she said and left Lilian there to think.

Her mum was right,she wouldn't have told her she was travelling to see a stranger. " What kind of person is this Ayomide?" She wondered. "I mean who does that?" She asked herself. "Anyway I'm finally going to see him today." She thought. She hurriedly had her bath and started looking for what to wear, she couldn't see any dress fit for this meeting. She decided she was going to the market to get new clothes. She went from one boutique to another looking for what is fit. She then settled for a a green shirt designed with strips and a black trousers. She wanted to look very decent because she has gotten to understand Ayomide's personality from their conversations. Her hair was in perfect condition as she had already made a nee hairstyle for Christmas. So she was good to go.

The journey from (anonymous) to Asaba was a short one but seemed very long to Lilian as she couldn't wait to Alight the bus,she imagined looking like one of the male passengers, she laughed and dashed the thought away. All kinds of thoughts started coming to her mind. What if Ayomide was a kidnapper and just wanted to use me for blood money? What if all the money he has been sending to me collects something spiritually from me? Wait! 

Why did my mum allow me on such a trip? "My mum is not a good woman" she almost sobbed.. "How could she allow me to travel to see a stranger?" what if something bad happens to me?" her head was full of these thoughts and she felt like telling the driver to stop so she could return back home but the urge driving her within to carry on was greater than that telling her to stop. She read the message Ayomide sent to her again "Please tell the driver to stop you at summit then call me when you get there" she reminded the driver again to stop her at summit junction.

"Summit junction" the driver's voiced jerked her out of her thoughts. She came down and looked around. This was the first time in her life she was doing something like this. Though a bit troubled she summoned courage to dial Ayomide's contact. "I'm at summit" she said with a shaky voice. He told her to wait around and that his colleague would pick her up. "Why his colleague and not him?" She thought. She concluded in her heart that Ayomide was indeed crippled that explained why he couldn't drive. With a sad face she waited patiently for the colleague. 

While she was waiting,a call came in. It was her mum. "Are you there yet?" She asked in a trembled voice. "Please do not show yourself until you've seen him and you think you're safe with him" Lilian laughed at this and said "Shebi you are now afraid too" they both laughed as she ended the call. Another call came in. This time it was a strange number. "Hello! Lilian this is Ayomide's colleague, he asked us to pick you. What are you wearing?" Lilian started to panic. "Ehm,.. Eh.. What are you wearing?" She asked back.. The other voice laughed and said "I can tell that you're scared. Well, can you see a petrol station where you are standing? 

There is a white hilux with antenna and a black Jeep in front of it" Lilian quickly looked across and saw the hilux and the black jeep. "Eh, are you in any of them? Why didn't Ayomide come to pick me himself?" She asked even more terrified. Then she saw the hilux and the black Jeep driving to her direction. "They must have seen me " she thought and felt like running away but she stood transfixed.

A very cute dark complexioned young man and a light skin lady with neatly plaited braids came down from the black Jeep. "Lilian" the guy called out with smiles on his face "My name is Abiola" he said half smiling "And this is chinelo. We are both Ayomide's colleague" She felt safe as Chinelo waved and smiled at her. She noticed there were military men in the hilux and this made her more safe. She entered the black jeep with them after seeing a rosary in front of the car. "Ayomide has told us a lot about you.

So you are the smallie writing those mature articles on Facebook huh" Abiola said smiling "I read them too you know." Lilian couldn't help but smile as well. "Ayomide can't wait to see you" Chinelo added. Lilian wanted to ask them if he was crippled but changed her mind as she felt it wasn't right... They drove for sometime and stopped at government house, Asaba. They drove into the residence of the workers and parked. Lilian came down and followed suit as they led the way, by now she was no longer terrified and was only curious.

Abiola and chinelo walked towards an apartment and she noticed a young man probably in his mid twenties standing in front. Abiola and chinelo greeted him and entered the house,Lilian in return greeted him and was about entering with them when Abiola and Chinelo chorused at once.

"That Is Ayomide". Lilian looked back with surprise and amazement. She never thought that young guy could be Ayomide as she was expecting to see a crippled man. The guy she saw had a fine dark spotless skin, his eyebrows was well arranged like God took his time to create this being. His lips had this beautiful curve that one could imagine how cute they must have been when he was a baby, his hair showed well grooming as it was dark, shinning, well brushed and a bit curly. He was of an average height. 

He was smiling and his smile was so sweet to watch that one would smile with him unconsciously. He opened his arms and embraced Lilian tightly. "Hope I'm worth the suspense" he whispered in her ears. Lilian was so dumbfounded that she could barely utter a word. She wanted the embrace to continue forever as she couldn't help but inhale the scent on his shirt. "This is my husband" She said in her heart and blessed God for such a blessing in her life.

"You're Beautiful" he said half smiling. "I thought it was only in pictures" he added. Lilian couldn't help but blush endlessly. "Let's go inside" he held her hands and walked her in. As they entered, the foot mat vibrated beneath her feet,Lilian jumped up and screamed in horror almost jumping on Ayomide. He laughed and watched her as he said "It only magnets sand and other metals you must have stepped on from your sandals" he laughed loudly and said "Village girl." Lilian covered her face with hands as she felt very embarrassed. Ayomide was a very interesting person to be with. They ate, drank and played games with his laptop, watched movies together and not once did he give her a lascivious look. His colleagues made her laugh as they told her funny things about Ayomide. Just when she was praying for this not to end, Ayomide told her to get ready, that she would soon go back home. She felt very comfortable with him and didn't want to leave.

"You're very young and successful" she told him. "what do you do" she asked. "I would tell you" he said smiling again "but it must be a secret between us" then he told her he was SSS and that was why he was very conscious of his security from day 1. "Why are you helping me? Why me" she asked "I just like you. You're so innocent and intelligent and i want to be a part of your life." He told her. Though that wasn't what Lilian expected. She wanted him to say he was in love with her too cuz she was madly in love with him. "How old are you please? " the words came speedily from her mouth. "I'm 27" he said smiling as usual, they kept sharing experiences till the sun went down and Ayomide decided it was time to go.

He drove her to the park, waited till she was in the bus,gave her some more money and waved her bye. Lilian couldn't control the tears that gushed from her eyes as her bus left. Can anyone be this kind? Are there still people as good as this in this world? She texted him thus "Ayomide God bless the day i met you. You would have chosen anyone else out there but you chose me, May God bless you. I would love and respect you forever." Ayomide was the first person she ever loved. I know you're curious to know the rest of the story. Like i told you earlier on it's a real life story, I would rush the end part of it.

She got home happily that day and told her mum everything. Her mum called Ayomide to thank him for the fact that Lilian came back safely. Lilian was too excited that she wanted to pour out her heart to someone and tell the person how madly in love she was with this person already.

She felt it wasn't wise to tell her mum about her feelings for Ayomide because she might condemn it and tell her she was too young. She then confided in a friend and told her everything that happened. The friend replied thus "Hmm mm, so mean after all he did for you,he did not even touch you when you visited him? No kiss sef" she said disbelievingly. "Anyway, it's the first time that's why, when next you go there get ready to open your legs very wide cud he must have sex with you" she said at once. While she was telling her friend all these,her mum wasn't far away and she listened to everything. "You are not a good person" her mum told the friend. "Is that what you should be telling her" she asked the friend angrily. "Lilian i have told you that in life one must keep something secret. Not everyone deserves to hear your story." she felt remorse for not telling her mum this in the first place.

If only Lilian took that advice from her mum, things wouldn't be the way they are today. Lilian visited him again and they went out to a fast food to eat and all went well. Then she got admission into school and Ayomide was still there assisting her as usual but Lilian kept telling anyone that came her way the good things Ayomide was doing for her and in her heart, that was the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. The people she told got Ayomide's contact and name on social media and kept telling him wrong things about her. 

Some even went to the extent of threatening his life and asking for money in return,it got so Worse that Ayomide couldn't take it anymore. He finally cut every contact with Lilian and left her a message "You do not want to be wise. I pray God sends you a more tolerating benefactor,i really do love you and wanted the best for you but you ruined everything"

Till date,Lilian still has Ayomide's contact but it's always not reachable. She still leaves messages for him on social medias but she gets no reply in return. Just like a ghost,she never saw or heard from Ayomide again.

We write to teach. This was a personal experience, she is in regrets about some certain thing and hoped many must have learnt from her story including you.

So, What did you learn?? We will love to hear from you.

**written by Promise O. Wealthy**

**Forwarded by Ananwureyi Ohine Joy**

Something Good Lost (Part 2)

Something Good Lost (part2)

(contiuation from last week) 

........She wondered why he didn't want her to see him. Her friends and cousins have advised her earlier on that he was just a crippled wealthy man who was looking for a young girl to groom and then take as wife but she has dashed away this thought. Right now she considered it, what if they were right? What if Ayomide was really crippled.

She decided she was gonna ask him.

He laughed nonstop and asked Lilian who was feeding her with such ideas but did not answer the question. "When you see me,you would know" he said still laughing. "When would that be?" She asked frustratingly. He changed the topic as he asked her of her well being and how studies was going. She thought of throwing away that urge to see him and just enjoying the moment while it last, after all she had nothing to lose but she just couldn't as she was falling in love more deeply with this man.

As days turned into weeks, weeks into months their friendship became even stronger. Lilian would be in class and get alert constantly. Sometimes she would be too excited and scream out while lecture was going on. The most amazing part was that she doesn't even ask him for money first before he sends to her. She tells him "the money you sent the last time isn't finished yet, I still have money" he would reply thus "I do not want you to lack anything. Just be focus and worry about how to pass" He was the one who told her to open an account with Guarantee trust bank.

The love in Lillian's heart became so strong that she started dreaming of him but in these dreams she sees Ayomide in a wheel chair. It could just be as a result of what her cousins and friends told her but then again it could just be her instinct. When people around her asked why she has saved this contact with "Godsent" she would tell them how good Ayomide has been to her. She would tell them everything from the beginning.

Her mum once warned her while they talked on phone to stop telling people about Ayomide and that in life a person needs to have secrets but she would say "Is it wrong to give testimony, I'm only telling people what God is doing for me through Ayomide " There was a time Lilian's mum was Ill and it was Ayomide who sent money down for her treatment. Her mum had spoken with Ayomide thanking and praying for him and he had been very embarrassed as he thought it wasn't necessary.

Lilian was good to everyone around her, she would assist to pay fees for her pre-degree mates who couldn't afford it, she would buy books and handouts for her friends,in the hostel, she was the cook as she would cook much food and share for all her neighbours. It got to a point that whoever needed anything went to Lilian for help,whoever was hungry went to her for food, She was so kind hearted that she would always give happily.

That faithful day she just got back from class and was having a cold shower when her phone rang. She had customised a personal ring tone for Ayomide so she knew when he was the one calling. She would leave whatever she was doing and run to pick his call. "Hello dear" she said happily but Ayomide's tone was sad and harsh and it changed her countenance. "Lilian who is Oreva?" He asked harshly. "I have no business with your friends" I only know you, your mum and your siblings so please tell them to stop contacting me" then he dropped the call. Lilian was dumbfounded. 

Oreva was her room mate. Why would she contact Ayomide she thought? This wasn't the first time he was complaining about this. He had once told her how one of her course mates messaged him and even added him on Facebook, how one of her male neighbours in the hostel added him on Facebook and messaged him thus "Lilian said you are her mentor and you have been mentoring her financially. Please mentor me financially too" and now Oreva too? She called Ayomide back to know what really happened and he told her to come online so he could send her screenshots. 

Her room mate had collected Ayomide's contact from her phone and added him on WhatsApp to tell him wrong things about her. She told him that Lilian was just fooling him and that she had saved his contact with "Maga" she also lied that Lilian had numerous boyfriends in school. She cried as she read the messages Ayomide sent her. This was the same person who would tell her to call Ayomide and request for huge amounts,she would advise Lilian to tell lies to him and extort money from him but Lilian would always refuse. She was never going to tell him lies she told herself.

Ayomide called her and told her to stop crying. "I know all those things she said were lies, just be careful of these people. They don't like you and they are taking your kind heart for granted. The fact that Ayomide did not believe Oreva was enough to wipe the tears off Lillian's face. She was not going to ask Oreva about it and she would create a password and start locking her phone as Ayomide advised. She would just take her mother's advice and be more careful. Her love for him grew even more. She did not stop pleading to see him and he in return did not stop saying "it isn't the right time". She even begged for pictures of him but he refused and told her to focus on her studies that they would meet when it's right. Then the long awaited day came……..….…

Some Good Lost To be continued…….

Dear readers, what do you think about what Lilian's mom told her over the phone that she should stop telling people mostly her friends about Ayomide and that in life a person need to have secrets? Do you think she is going to regret telling her friends about Ayomide? And what do you really think Ayomide wants from her? This is a true life story, though your comment wouldn't change the other part of the story, but it will be really appreciated. kindly comment what you think. Then I would continue the rest.

**written by Promise O. Wealthy**

**Forwarded by Ananwureyi Ohine Joy***

Something Good Lost

       Something Good Lost

Lilian was seating on the chair in the parlour with a sad face, her eyes were wet and you could see that she must have been sobbing even though she knew she was at fault. Her phone has just been seized by her aunt due to the fact that Lilian was too young to receive calls almost every minute from male folks. For Lilian, she had nothing to do with them. This was the time when etisalat gave you back every minute of call you receive so the more the calls you receive, the more the bonus. Lilian was a gregarious girl who would give any guy who asked her contact because she wanted the bonus. 

At this age Lilian was ignorant about a lot of things, all she did was read novels and browse the internet. Facebook and 2go were her best companion as she has just finished secondary school and her cousins were far older than her so she couldn't be involved in their kind of discussion. She would spend all her time online chatting with people she has never met,receiving calls from people she knows she would never have the chance to meet and making inspirational quotes,and interesting articles on these sites.

"Lilian" her aunt called out,she quickly stood up and rushed into her aunt's room. She sat down on the bed as she saw her aunt sitting on the bed. She knew her aunt was ready for those long talks. "Lilian my dear, i'm doing this for you to be a better person,decent girls don't share their contacts to the world." she felt ashamed because her aunt was right and the fact that she even made her contact public on Facebook weighed her down even more.

"I would change. She muttered. "Well, i would give you back your phone but if your phone keeps ringing every minute again,i would take it from you and smash it." As she was about taking the phone from her aunt,it rang. It was a message,Lilian became scared as she thought it was one of her 2go male friends texting as usual. "You see what I'm talking about? " her aunt complained. " if i open this message and it's from those good for nothing boys,you are not getting back your phone." Her aunt opened the message and it read thus :

"Hi young woman, My name is Ayomide. I've been going through your profile on Facebook and your articles are very captivating and to think that you're very young to have written all that.. Please can i be your mentor?"

Her aunt smiled and said "This isn't bad. This person means good" She gave her back the phone and warned her to be more careful. "God bless whoever has sent me that text" Lilian prayed in her heart, at least my aunt can now see that I'm also making use of the internet properly, she thought. She decided to call the person to say thanks. She dialed the number,it rang and became busy. She dialed again and it was the same thing.,Then she got a text message. It was from etisalat. Someone has just transfered airtime worth of #1,500 to her. She screamed and jumped up in amazement. Her aunt rushed out to know why she was so excited. "Someone just transfered #1,500 airtime to me" While they were still trying to figure out who did, her phone began to ring. 

She picked up and was terrified as the other end of the line was male. "hello Lilian" the voice echoed. But she couldn't even respond. "Lilian" the voice came from the phone again. "Oh! Hello" she replied. "how are you? My name is Ayomide, i saw your call but decided not to take it. I know you don't have airtime so i transferred some to you,hope you don't mind?" By this time her aunt was already dressed up to leave for her charismatic renewal meeting. "Thank you very much. I am very happy right now and i would enjoy your mentorship" she joked. The call continued as he started asking lots of questions about her. By now her aunt had already left and Lilian was left at home with her cousins. 

She enjoyed talking to the person on the other end of the line. They continued talking and laughing until they reached the limit of minutes. He called again and they continued then he asked if she doesn't want to further her education and she explained how she wants to but can't afford the form. He requested for her account details. Lilian didn't even own an account yet. he then told her to send that of any of her cousins which she did. While she was still talking on phone with Ayomide, her cousin got an alert. Ayomide had sent a huge amount of money.

This was a period when those who used internet banking, ATM cards were the wealthy ones, a period when all the common man knows about banking was that it opens from Monday (8am-4pm) to Friday same time and you can withdraw and deposit money only through this process. Anyone who could do otherwise was very wealthy. She thanked Ayomide and with tears in her eyes,she asked him why he was doing all those things for her.

They became very close as they talked on phone everyday and chatted till late hours at night. He would tell her to always read her books and her bible and that whenever she needed anything, she shouldn't hesitate to call him. Before she goes to bed,she would go down on her knees and thank God for this new friend in her life. In the morning she would glow in smiles as her countenance was a very happy one.

That year she bought the form,sat for the exams but couldn't beat the cut off mark for law. Ayomide became her best friend. He was the first she would call to tell anything be it good or bad and he was always there for her. He would advice her,console her,pray with her and rejoice with her if the news was a good one. She later left the house for school as she started doing a pre-degree programme. All these while Ayomide was still in touch with her. He was still sending her money to buy books,foodstuffs and other things she needed for school. She started falling in love with this Stranger. 

Though he didn't seem a stranger to her anymore. Each time she requested to see him. He would always reply "You don't need this now. Face your studies" she became more curious. She wondered why he didn't want her to see him. Her friends and cousins have advised her earlier on that he was just a crippled wealthy man who was looking for a young girl to groom and then take as wife but she has dashed away this thought. Right now she considered it,what if they were right? What if Ayomide was really crippled. She decided she was gonna ask him.

Something Good Lost To be continued……....

Dear readers, what do you think about Ayomide? Could he be crippled? Were the assumptions of her cousins right? Does this man really want something from her in return? This is a true life story, though  your comments wouldn't change the other part of the story, but a problem shared is a problem half solved.
kindly comment what you think. 

**written by Promise O. Wealthy**

**Forwarded by Ananwureyi Ohine Joy***

Blissful Doom

“Mommy…Fone…mooommmy…fone”. I quickly wiped my hands with the napkin then made for the living room. My 4year old baby had managed to draw my attention to the ringing phone although I heard it ringing. I kissed him on the forehead “Thanks babe”. He smiled showing his white milk teeth which made him look more adorable.
“Hello, how are…”
“P-p-lease… you have to start coming…I-I-I-I…think… He’s…He’s…c-cooo-ming…he’s coming...”
“Hold on what are you saying, you are making no sense…”
“I’m scared-d-d-d-d-d…” she broke off crying. The line went dead. Ok …that wasn’t cool and I don’t understand a thing. I can’t just pick my car keys and drive off  to her house, to start with I’m cooking and I have to think of where to drop my son , I can’t take him along. She sounded so scared and I worry for her. I paced across the living room for a while, then I picked my phone and dialled my husband’s line, I told him everything. He told me to drop the baby at his sister’s then go over as soon as possible, it could be more serious than she sounded on the phone.
“…and go there as soon as possible, I will meet you there. I’m leaving office right away.” he said as he dropped the call.

I just couldn’t wait for the lecturer to get out of class. She had a bruise on her lower lip, discoloration on her cheek and a black eye. I came to realise that if we were in our third or final year in the university I would have the liver to ask her about it while the lecturer was still in class but well it was our first year so we were still new in the system and no one wants to get into the “black book” of the lecturers.
“… so, see you next class” I was so happy to hear those words. Immediately the lecturer walked out of the class I blurted out “Is he beating you again?”
“I hit my head against the wall… you know naija NEPA na , I was returning from the kitchen and they just took the light. I wasn’t holding my phone neither was I holding my lamp, so I guess I headed for the wall…”

I didn’t believe her that day but I wasn’t in a mood to argue so I decided to shrug it off. I knew he had beaten her again, that discolouration, and the swollen eye all came from something more of flesh and blood. I remember the first time she came back to the room crying with a bruised lip, she almost cried her eyes out, he had just introduced her to SMS 101 (Special Maximum Shishi)…yeah your guess is good shishi means beating. “I can’t believe he slapped me… I was just greeting the class rep… ” I was as surprised myself, I mean! He didn’t look it; he looks too cute and has this heavenly charm and so much charisma one could die for. She was devastated. The following morning, he came bearing gifts, sweet scenting flowers, cake, chocolates, and cookies, name it! He begged for her forgiveness on both knees weeping profusely, promising never to lay his hands on her again. That moment was cute…you know…that moment when you want to fall in love. They kissed… they made up…of course who wouldn’t? It was the first time and he promised it won’t happen again and gush! This moment is captivating.
But he never stopped hitting her, he never stopped begging, he never stopped bearing gifts, she never stopped loving him. She had it all… if you say so… gadgets, money, love, her prince charming, her doom. He got her all of it.
I remember during our penultimate year, she came into the room grinning from ear to ear, I remember there was this glitter in her eyes…I think it is love “He asked me to move in with him!!! Isn’t it wonderful!” I felt a pang in my chest. Are you kidding me? She must be out of her mind.
“You said No, right?”
“Why? I love him. This will give us the opportunity to know each other’s differences, understand it better and reach a consensus”
“You can’t be serious right now. He hits you, he is violent…he keeps promising to stop but let me tell you the truth he is never going to stop... ”
“…but he loves me and I love him. I know he has anger issues but he is really sweet and you know that! At least he keeps trying to change and he is faithful…no side chick…how many guys can do that? Stay faithful…”

Of course she moved in with him. She was in love. And yes he didn’t stop beating her, and yes she didn’t stop running to me for a shoulder to cry on, and yes he didn’t stop bearing gifts, and again yes she didn’t stop running back to him.
I remember few years after school when she called. “Guess what? He asked me to marry him?”  She was so ecstatic. I knew better at this point. “Really? You said yes?” of course she did. I remember asking her whether that was really what she wanted. Hell yeah she was sure that was what she wanted. I remember I was the chief bridesmaid.

I was honking like crazy. No sign of the gateman/ security man trying to open the gate. I bolted out of my car and banged the gate as much as my strength could permit me. At last the gateman opened the gate.
“Where the hell have you been!” I snapped angrily at him
“Madam no vex…na my oga talk say make I come pack things for house” he held out of a list of things.
“For what?”
“We carry madam go hospital…”
I just had to cut in “… which madam? Which hospital? In fact start taking me there right now”. He tried to argue with me claiming he has to do what his oga sent him… let’s just say I got him to get me to the hospital, the rest is history. I texted my husband the address of the hospital.
I remember marriage didn’t change him. I remember wondering why she thought marriage would change him. I know she doesn’t enjoy the beating but she kept hoping the man she loved would just change. I remember the day she called me to give me the good news “I’m pregnant!” I was happy for her, I truly was. I had tons of plans for baby shower; I was ready to surprise the hell out of her. I remember how glad I was on one of the numerous visits to her place when she asked me to be the god mother. Oh yeah that is so not African, god mother ke? But I was happy, happy for her, happy she was happy, happy she was patiently expecting. My happiness, her happiness was shattered when he boxed the pregnancy out of her few weeks later. I was sad, she was devastated. He pleaded, he accepted his fault, called himself a monster, said he will never make a good dad, said he needs redemption and he will never get the redemption without her. She mourned, she forgave him. Life goes on.

But he never stopped, he kept beating her, she kept losing her babies…oh yeah pregnancies, pregnancy one, pregnancy two, three, four…he kept apologizing, she kept forgiving. Parents wants her to stay… after all, our society frowns at divorce, friends envy her “Mrs” title after all, marriages are supposed to be heavenly, religious leaders counselled her to stay after all what God has joined together let no man put asunder. It beats me.
It’s been some months now. I and my husband and other well-wishers have been coming to the hospital hoping and praying for her quick recovery. Today I’m happy and excited to see her again, I haven’t been to the hospital for two days…well that’s because I have a job and a life too. I have been told she’s recovering and I can’t wait to talk to her. I went straight to the doctor’s office; we exchanged pleasantries and led me to her ward. My heart leapt with joy seeing her sit on the bed, I ran towards her and gave her the hug of her life.
“How are you feeling now…I’m so glad you are fine now….I brought some fruits…” I went on and on, I was happy.
“I’m fine, thank you” she replied
“Do you want the fruits now?” I asked as I made for my bag grinning from ear to ear but I stopped and my smile varnished when she spoke “I’m sorry, please who are you?” she searched for the doctor’s face and asked him “Who is she?”
 That became the worst moment of my life, that moment when I was told that my best friend has amnesia. I wished it was a dream, I wished it was a nightmare, I wished she was just being silly, I wished she was just playing a prank on me, I wished she will just open her mouth and scream “April Fool!!!”, I wished… but she never did, it wasn’t a dream, it wasn’t a nightmare, she wasn’t being silly, she wasn’t playing a prank on me, she never screamed “April Fool!!!”…

Even now I still remember the doctor’s voice, crystal clear in my head… “I’m sorry madam… amnesia is usually associated with some form of brain damage probably through physical injury or as a result of shock, but it may also be caused by severe psychological trauma…”
“Moommmyy…poo poo… mooommmyy… poo poo” my son’s voice jotted me back to reality and as I hurried back inside the question on my mind remains “What Next?” I fear for her, she has no idea what he has done, she is vulnerable, she will probably go back to him.


By Adeosun Adepeju Answer
@Answer_Rubby 

My Missing Jewel (Based on a true life story)

                        MY STOLEN JEWEL
                   (Based on a true life story)

Episode 1
Stop it!!! Stop it!!!!. Even as I screamed at him he continued to tear off my clothes. Let me take you to the very beginning. Jude and I met in my first class on campus. He was very quiet in class and I never even noticed him. As a freshman studying medicine, I had to be serious. No time for boys, and no time for play. All I had to do was read. My friendship with Jude started the day I was sick and missed a class. Loner that I was without friends, I meekly asked Jude the quiet boy in class for his note. Surprisingly Jude was kind. He gave me his note and even offered to copy it for me. I was delighted. Finally a friend.

Episode 2
We became friends after that. We exchanged numbers and started reading together. He was the perfect gentleman. Our friendship grew steadily and we got closer with each passing day. Jude always wanted to do the right things. Going to church was compulsory, we never missed classes and we always read. My mum was happy I was happy and things were going fine.
First semester results rolled in and we really had good scores. Jude and I celebrated by eating out. That was the life. And then it happened.
"Shade meet my friend Josh" I looked up and met the gaze of a light skinned muscular guy. His eyes were the color of melted chocolate and he belonged to the beard gang. His trousers fitted so nicely that I couldn't take my eyes off him. I quickly jumped up and offered my hand in greeting. "Hi, I'm shade, nice to meet you" he looked me over and replied the greeting with a hug. Jude just stood aside laughing at our reactions. "Josh is my friend he just transferred to our school from Liberia. He's really good and I want him to join our study group" I looked at Josh and thought how can this Prince of hotness not be in our study group. No dulling o. I quickly replied"he's welcome to join us na it's no big deal"

Episode 3
Josh joined us everyday to study. I began to dress better. Shorter skirts, tighter clothes, more makeup and even bought a new phone since Josh used an iPhone. I always waited with anticipation for anytime I get to see Josh. I was like a dog awaiting its master. I made a crazy picture. " Shade you've been looking great these days. I've always wanted to tell u how I feel about u" those were the best words I heard that day and they came from Josh.
" I'll be your girlfriend" I quickly replied. He looked at me surprisingly and smiled "this is even happening faster than I thought" he ran his hands down my face and gave me a kiss. That sealed the deal. I was overexcited and I never even remembered to tell Jude my best friend. He called me after a while and in his usual manner he was so understanding"I'm happy for you dear. Just be careful cos I know Josh is not your regular type of guy. I also noticed you've changed a lot and I don't even know who u are anymore. You've hidden yourself in all these indecent clothes and makeup." I looked confused as I listened to Jude. My outburst was immediate"who are u to tell me what to do. Just because we are friends gives you no right over me. I know you are jealous. Just leave me alone and get yourself a girl" having said that I stormed out of the room. Jude and I were good together. People liked our pictures on instagram and our videos on snapchat. I stopped reading with Jude because of his preaching. Results came out and I barely made the cut. Meanwhile Josh had exciting news for me. He got a house in town so we could now do all our reading there. I was really excited. I didn't have to read in d cold lecture theatres and in the library. His house was conducive enough. We joined resources together and furnished the house. I had to sell some clothes and even my phone. It was all for the greater good of having a good place to live with my boo.

Episode 4
I moved into the new place with Josh, amidst warnings from friends and the frowns from everyone I knew. I couldn't be stopped. Jude stopped talking to me since I always refused to listen to him because of his incessant preaching sessions. I lost my friend, my grades and every hope of ever graduating with honours. " Shade, I'm going to take a smoke outside, make some noodles before I return" I looked up to see Josh, the guy I gave up everything for talking to me. He started smoking as soon as we started living together. He also did hard drugs and drank like a fish. All my pocket money went to providing for him and feeding him. God forbid I complain, he wouldn't hesitate to beat me up. That was my situation. Love turned sour in less than a month. I quickly stood up to prepare his noodles before he returned. "At least he's not sleeping with me. That's my only consolation". I made his noodles and as he ate he had news for me. " Shade baby, I want us to invest in a business. It yields 10 times profit in a week" he explained how it worked, networking and all. Finally a way to make us rich. " we only need N150,000" I looked at him with my mouth opened. "How do we get that kind of money, I spent all I have contributing to the house rent. And u don't have money too. How will we afford it" he just smiled and came to sit beside me. " baby just call home and sell some clothes. We can do it. I'll do same too. Please shade" the soft look in his eyes and the touch of his fingers on my face made me melt and I just yielded as always. Operation sell all my clothes and lie to everyone to get the money. It took two weeks of going to hostels to sell my clothes and shoes. My parents also assisted me because of the mind blowing lies I told. Finally the money was complete. " Here is N200,000  baby. Let's start a new life" Josh was surprised. He hugged me and carried me round the house. " now we can make ourselves rich shade. I'll invest tomorrow morning baby" I slept happily because I knew we would be rich.

Episode 5
I woke up early to prepare  for the day and didn't even see Josh. He had packed all his things leaving only a note that read " shade thanks for being a fool" I stood surprised. I didn't want to believe Josh ran away with my money and left me stranded. I didn't even have one pair of shoes left. I heard knocking on the door and thinking it was Josh I quickly opened. It was the landlord asking me to move out because our time of grace had expired. I was confused. I thought we paid the rent because I gave Josh N50,000  to add to the money for rent. I couldn't even reply the landlord. The man just looked at me, shook his head and threw me out.
I looked at myself. On d street, dressed in one shirt I saw at the backyard. My hair was a mess I had no money and no life. Suddenly I remembered Jude. My first friend whom I refused to listen to. I quickly ran to his house. "Knock knock, anyone home?" I knocked on Jude's door. He opened it with sleepy surprised eyes. "Shade what are u doing here dressed like that? Where us Josh" I just started crying and narrated how Josh duped me and left me stranded. Jude just smiled and moved towards the door. " Shade you are very stupid. I warned you and you never listened. You were so in love now see what has happened to you" he locked the door and came over to where I sat crying. "Jude please forgive me and help Me I'm sorry" I carried helplessly. Jude just smiled and yanked my head up. He started tearing off my clothes. " stop it!!" I screamed. He continued to tear my shirt off, rendering slaps to my face as I shouted the more. " Jude please stop this". I was really confused. I didn't understand what was going on.  Before I knew it he was all over me. That was when I knew his plan.

Episode 6
I just lay there crying because fighting him was out of the question. He was out of control."filthy prostitute. You deserve this. After leaving me for Josh. I will show you what I'm made of today and when I'm done, my friends will also enjoy what you have to offer, since you are a very willing girl" with tears in my eyes, I watched as I lost my pride in a very shameful way to the one person I thought wouldn't  hurt me. I fainted even as 3 other guys came in to take their turn.
They took pictures of me and left me at a major road on campus. Good Samaritans took me to the health centre from where I was referred to a psychiatrist.
I couldn't take it anymore. I decided to write this story from my ward in a mental home. My parents disowned me for using them and for disappointing them. I'm now alone. A ward of the state. I'm writing to every young girl out there. Please be careful and trust no-one. Jude and Josh ruined my life. I wasn't wise enough. oh the nurse is here. It's time for my injections. And so my life ends.