Sister Deborah (All Episodes:28)

SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 1

.By Sam Freddy

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Tuesday services are one of my favorites among our church programmes, especially because of one reason – one major reason – Sister Deborah.

I couldn't remember the last time I missed any church service just because of her – just to hear her soprano, angelic voice and to see her beautiful, dimpled smile.

I often made sure I reserved a seat at the front row where I could easily have a good, clearer view of her – of her spotless fair skin complexion, her long black braided hair and her adorable straight legs; exactly most of what I wanted in a woman – she had it all.

Shifting the spotlight to myself, I could rather say I was somewhat attractive in my own way – at least, judging by the compliments I often do get from people. I wasnʼt fair like Deborah but my dark skin was perfect. I liked my average height, even if I wasnʼt too tall as I desire to be. I had a slim, fit physical structure that complimented my stature as well – and as for my facial looks, I could use Korede Bello as a perfect description for it. Only for the fact that I lacked cute dimples like his own.

However, asides all of that, Deborah had never for once noticed me, neither had I made any move or attempts. I always had this ecstatic feeling of boldness to talk to her in my imaginations, but when the time comes, my courage fails me terribly. I couldn't do it. I wasn't bold enough.

“Chineche!”

That was Timiʼs voice – a friend of mine – calling me over and over again, but I chose to ignore him.

“Chinecherem!” He called again, tapping me on my shoulder this time around.

Annoyingly turning to face him, I gave him a stern stare and asked, “What?!”

He looked dazed at my response.

“I don dey call you since say make we go house, but you no wan answer me. Service don close na!” He said.

I hissed and ignored him, turning my gaze back to what I was looking at.

Timi tapped me again, more harder.

“Chineche no be you I dey follow talk?” he sounded frustrated. Yet, I ignored him.

Then, instinctively, he followed my gaze to see what I was looking at.

After that, he heaved a sigh and muttered under his breath, “No wonder!”

“So you still havenʼt given up on this girl?” he asked, and added. “If you like her this much, why donʼt you just man up, walk up to her and tell her?”

“You think itʼs that easy?” I responded, still keeping my gaze fixated forward.

“Are you afraid of her?”

That was Timiʼs next question to me. I turned my gaze at him instantly.

“Afraid of her?” I laughed. “Why should I be afraid of her?”

“I have a reason for asking because, the Chineche I know would never take this long to woo a girl he likes. Iʼve always known you to be a sharp, rugged boy over the years who doesnʼt take no for an answer. What suddenly happened? You don change finish.” Timi said.

In a logical sense, he had some iota of truth in what he said. I had truly changed, a whole lot.

“I just can't understand either,” I answered, heaving a sigh. “Itʼs just that when it comes to Deborah, everything turns around. Everything changes! It feels entirely different.”

“Then talk to her!” Timi chipped in. I looked at him with an avid stare, processing his last words of advice in my head carefully, before heaving a sigh and then averted my eyes from his face to somewhere else.

“Timi, I canʼt. You wonʼt understand.” I gave up in mock surrender, getting up on my feet.

“Letʼs go home.” I added.

Timi looked at me with a complex gaze, obviously surprised at my cowardice.

“Chineche this is so unlike you,” he said, getting up on his feet too.

I ignored his remark with a slight shrug, walking toward the exit door. Timi followed behind me.

Just close to the exit door was where the choir podium was situated, which means that I would have to pass through that same spot, close to Deborah. I could see some choristers waiting behind, talking and laughing, probably waiting to have a practice session as usual. I could see Deborah too, standing with a plate of food and a bottled water engulfed in-between her right arm as she ate hurriedly, simultaneously laughing and talking as she chewed the crumbs of food in her mouth.

I bowed my head towards the ground as I passed behind her, making my way to the exit door as calmly as I could. I could smell her cologne – the usual perfume I hd grown to like whenever I passed near her. It had an enchanting scent combined with the appealing colors of the yellow and black uniform she wore – which happens to be her choir attire.

A few steps away to the exit, as I made my way further, like a bolt of lightning, practically out of the blue, someone pushed me forcefully and I stumbled and staggered, almost tripping down on the bare ground. I lost balance and waltzed to a corner to grab onto anything I could hold on to, only to end up colliding heavily with someoneʼs figure beside me.

The plate she was holding slipped off from her hands and fell down, as well as the bottled water did. It shattered into pieces on the ground and the water spilled out too.

I raised my head with plain shock, realizing I had just bumped into Deborah. I could see crumbs of stew stained all over her shirt, messing it up. She looked more shocked than I was at that moment.

“My goodness! I am s--s--so sorry,” I stuttered frightfully, fidgeting and trembling due to the unlikely look she had on her face.

Then, instinctively, I turned my gaze backwards to see Timi standing at a distance, slightly afar off. He had pushed me intentionally. I could tell from the dubious look on his face.

He smiled and winked at me immediately, then he burst into uncontrollable laughter.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 2

(By Sam Freddy.)

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I still trembled frantically as I exchanged glances with her, eyeball to eyeball.

“I am terribly sorry,” I pleaded on, hoping to hear her say something. She showed no facial expression whatsoever, rather than staying mute, facing me with an expressionless stare.

“I am really sorry,” I said again. She kept mute, still.

Then, Timi came closer to where we were standing, lifting his legs to avoid stepping on the broken pieces of plate on the floor. I 'eyed' him badly as he came nearer.

“Oh, my God! Sister Deborah I'm very, very sorry,” he said as he finally stood near us. “I and my friend were just joking when I unconsciously pushed him and then...”

“Itʼs okay.” Deborah cut in, shrugging.

“It was a mistake, please. It wasn't intentional.” Timi persisted further.

“I said it's okay, it's fine. You can leave.”

“Okay. First of all, let us sweep and pack the broken pieces of plate and mop the floor before we leave.” Timi said, kneeling towards the ground.

“Stop. I'll clean it up myself.” Deborah declined his offer. “You can go, both of you.”

“Are you sure you're not annoyed?” Timi questioned again.

“Trust me, it is fine. You can leave.” She affirmed softly, adding a smile.

“Thank you. Iʼm really sorry once again.” I said, feeling at ease this time around. She only smiled and nodded at me, uttering nothing in response.

I bowed my head and proceeded toward the exit as Timi followed behind me. I was still angry with him, obviously, and he knew it.

When I exited the church premises, Timi ran up to me laughing uncontrollably and trying too hard to start a conversation with me, but I ignored him. He kept talking and teasing me about the recent incident, trying to get me to talk, but I paid deaf ears to everything he was saying. When he realized I wasn't giving him the attention he was looking for, he gradually kept shut and composed himself.

Usually, it is a normal routine for I and Timi to walk together whenever we closed from the church service, trekking the long distance back home. But because of my angered state at that moment I was forced to take a cab back to school, where I would then trek the remaining distance to our hostel.

I left Timi behind and took a cab.

On getting to our hostel, I had barely stretched out my hand to grab the door knob when the door literally creaked open on its own. Fatai, our fellow roommate, stepped out of the room with a girl beside him. At first glance, he looked rather surprised to see me standing there – not until he took a peek at his wristwatch and glanced back at me.

“Una don close?” He asked, sounding uneasy.

I only nodded absentmindedly as I proceeded to make my way inside.

“Where is Timi?” Fatai asked again, holding me back.

I turned around and fixed a stern glare straight at him, directly at his eyes.

“Guy, give yourself brain.” I said bluntly and jerked my arm away from his grasp as I walked back inside.

Shutting the door behind me, I flung my Bible to the small center table and tossed my shoes to a corner, falling straight to the bed.

“What's his problem?” I heard a feminine voice speaking. “Is he alright?”

“Heʼs probably in a bad mood. Letʼs just go. Let me see you off and Iʼll return back to him.” Fatai responded, heaving a sigh.

“Please do.” The feminine voice spoke and, after that, I heard footsteps walking away.

I closed my eyes and buried my head into the pillow to soak myself in thoughts.

Timi fumbled this time around. He clearly crossed his boundaries. Was that necessary? I asked myself. Did he have to push me? Did he have to embarrass me that way?

In the middle of these thoughts, the door opened up and I looked from the corner of my eyes to see Fatai, accompanied by Timi and Hakeem, our co-roommate. I hissed and buried my head into the pillow again.

“Omo Igbo ki lon sé ė?” Hakeem asked jovially. Which means, “Igbo boy what is your problem?”

I paid deaf ears to his remark and remained motionless.

“Iwo ko ni moʼn ba soro ni?” He asked again. Which means, “Are you not the one I am talking to?”

“Hakeem, apurum aka biko.” I answered in the calmest way I could. Which means, “Hakeem, please leave me alone.”

“You dey swear for me?” Hakeem exclaimed, confused.

“I said leave me alone.” I annoyingly repeated.

I wanted to be left alone. Out of my expectation to be left alone from Hakeemʼs disturbing questions, someone dragged my leg and pulled me upright roughly. I looked up with a frown in place, expecting to see Hakeemʼs figure, but it turned out to be Fataiʼs instead.

“Don't bone face for me. Sit down properly, letʼs talk.” Fatai said calmly.

I tried not to sound rude. “Fatai, please stay out of this issue. It's not your concern.”

“Chineche, I said sit down.” Fatai repeated, sounding blunt.

I took a glance at both Timi and Hakeemʼs direction, giving a bloodshot glare particularly at Timi, before turning back to Fatai.

“Fatai, na because say na you o.” I said and adjusted myself properly to sit upright.

Fatai sat beside me, followed by Hakeem who held a bowl of garri and a plate as he absentmindedly scooped some spoons from the bowl into the plate; while Timi remained standing.

“Won't you sit?” Fatai asked, referring to Timi.

“Una go drink garri?” Hakeem interrupted.

Fatai turned to face Hakeem with a disgusted look. “So that garri is the most important thing to you concerning this issue, isn't it?”

Hakeem shrugged. “Wetin concern me. If they like let them kill themselves, the world must surely go on.”

“Timi please sit down. Ignore the fool.” Fatai persuaded further, snubbing Hakeem with maturity.

“Fool or no fool, all I know is that they must end up settling. So...”

“Would you at least shut up?” Fatai was obviously fed up of Hakeemʼs babbling, judging by the tone of his voice. 

That was the typical Hakeem with his carefree nature. He often goofed around and cared less about anything, so I wasn't the least surprised at his attitude. It wasn't his first time, neither would it be his last.

Hell, in another word, was the same thing as staying with Hakeem under the same roof.

However, Timi heeded to Fataiʼs words and sat on the bed, directly opposite me. I was sitting at the edge, while Fatai sat in the middle, and Timi at the opposite edge. So Fatai was virtually in-between us.

“Chineche, let us talk man to man. What actually happened?”

“Tell him to tell you.” I answered with a straight look at Timi, pointing at him.

“He already has,” Fatai countered. “He told us on our way coming in, but I also need to hear from you, that is of course if itʼs fine by you.”

“I hope he told you how he embarrassed me?”

“Embarrassed you? Chineche, you call that embarrassment?” Timi laughed cockily. “I only helped you.”

“You were helping me by pushing me forcefully to a girl to the extent that I squashed and spilled her plate of food and water? You even made me stain her clothes too. Did I ask you to help me? Who asked for your help? Who send you message abeg?”

“Chineche calm down. Timi you too talk small small. I don't want a situation whereby we would start exchanging blows now o! You guys should behave na.” Fatai cautioned, trying to ease the tension.

“No, leave them, let them fight.” Hakeem said with a smile, scooping a spoonful of garri as he talked.

Fatai ignored him and continued: “Timi, how would you do something like that? You fucked up.”

“I didn't fuck up. Chineche fucked up.” Timi replied sharply.

“How did I fuck up?” I demanded, obviously puzzled. “Timi, you know how much I like that girl. You know how much I have been secretly admiring her. You are the least of all people I expected this from.”

“Chineche, I said you fucked up big time. That push I gave you was your stepping stone to move forward, but you fumbled. You wasted it. So, don't blame me.”

“Hold on, this particular girl in question, who is she?” Fatai interrupted.

“Deborah.” Timi answered. “She's a chorister.”

“She attends this school?”

“Yes, she does. In fact, she stays in this campus.” Timi affirmed.

“She's light-skinned?”

“Exactly.”

“Then it must be her!” Fatai confirmed as he shook his head. “I know her, she is my girlfriend's friend.”

“Excuse me?” I spoke up instantly on hearing the word 'girlfriend.' I had thought he was referring to Deborah as his girlfriend.

“Chineche, remember the girl you saw when you came in earlier?” Fatai asked.

I nodded.

“Divine – that's her name. She's my girlfriend and also Deborah's friend and roommate.” He explained clearly.

“Wait a minute, you mean you actually brought a girl into this room?” Hakeem's mouth fell agape, almost spilling his mouthful of garri. “No wonder you refused to come to the mosque today. I now see whatʼs going on here!”

“So out of everything I just said, that was the only one he heard.” Fatai hissed, and continued. “So all hope is not lost yet. We can still do something about this issue if you want to, Chineche.”

“What are you suggesting?” I asked curiously.

“It's now you're talking!” Fatai heaved a sigh. “I could take you to her hostel around the evening hours, along with Timi as well. You know my girl stays there, so it should be easier for us.”

“But what is the need of going to her hostel, if I may ask? It's pointless.”

“You are wrong!” Timi cut in abruptly. “This is another chance for you, that is, if you play it well. So, decide!”

I fixed a thoughtful look at Timi, considering his suggestion carefully. It sounded like a nice idea, but still...not too nice, too.

“I've heard you. I'll give it a try.” I affirmed. “But,” I added, “that doesn't mean I have forgiven you, though.”

Timi laughed calmly, shaking his head dramatically. 

“Let's wait and see.”

___________

___________

Hours later, at exactly six thirty on the dot in the evening, Fatai and Timi had gotten ready to leave, apart from me. I wasn't prepared. I was nervous.

I even went the extra mile to have a shower and freshen up into new clothes, just to impress her. I brushed again for the umpteenth time that day, and I sprayed a good amount of perfume to enhance my cologne.

I also had a piece of paper I wrote something on about how I was supposed to act and what to say in front of her, and if I wasn't mistaken, I had read this same paper over a hundred times.

After the whole panic, inner debate in my head and the unnecessary practice session I had done over and over again, we finally left the house at seven on the dot, due to my childish delay. I did the sign of the cross three times when we finally approached the female hostel, precisely in front of a particular room.

“Is this it?” I asked nervously.

Fatai nodded affirmatively. “Are you ready?”

I heaved a sigh, breathed in as much air as I could, and said “Yes!”

Then, Fatai knocked on the door.

Immediately, a voice from inside responded.

“Yes, who's there?”

“It's me.”

“You as in, who?”

“Somebody.” Fatai answered.

“Don't you have a name?”

“I don't.” He said, smiling.

“Okay. Hold on, I am coming.” The voice responded and we heard footsteps approaching the door. Then, it opened.

“Baby!” Divine gasped in surprise as she saw Fatai. She leaned closer and wrapped him in a tight hug. Fatai laughed.

“You didn't tell me you were coming here.” She said as she withdrew from the hug, turning her gaze towards us; I and Timi.

We exchanged pleasantries and then she turned back to face Fatai.

“Why don't you guys come in? Let me prepare something for...”

“Actually,” Fatai interrupted, “we are here to see your friend, Deborah. Is she in?”

“She's around. Hope no problem?”

“No, nothing at all. We just need to see her.” Fatai affirmed calmly. 

Divine gave a skeptical suspicious look at Fatai closely: a very serious look.

“Baby, I hope it's not what I'm thinking o.” She said jokingly and walked back inside. Fatai and Timi laughed so hard, except from me. Laughter was the least of my problems at that moment.

Shortly after, Divine returned outside with my greatest fear... Deborah.

Everything I had practiced before coming there suddenly melted and dried off on sighting her. Imaginary goosebumps popped out all over my body and I noticed I was vibrating like an electrocuted person.

“Hey!” Deborah's voice echoed through my ears, reviving me from my reverie. “I remember you.”

I tried to say something, but my voice was unable to form words. She turned to Timi. “And you too. I remember you, too.”

“You guys know each other?” Divine spoke up, amused.

“Not exactly,” Deborah replied. “They're the guys I told you about, concerning the issue of my stained dress.”

“Oh, they're the ones?” Divine asked, shifting glances between I and Timi.

“Yes, they are.” Deborah affirmed.

“And that is why we came here,” Timi interjected. “To apologise!”

“To apologise?” Deborah repeated. “I already told you it's fine. I'm serious.”

Timi's eyes narrowed towards mine, giving me signs to take over.

“Deborah, can I have a minute with you?” I cut in sharply.

“Ehm. Sure...” She said hesitantly, a bit of confusion evident from her features.

She then stepped forward while I followed closely behind, away from Timi, Divine and Fatai.

“Deborah...” I called out, feeling my heartbeat thumping rapidly.

“Yeah?” She folded her hands as she answered, fixing her avid focus on me.

“Well,” I continued, managing to summon enough courage. “I know I offended you and I know I have said sorry a lot of times, but I just need to be assured that it's from your heart. Please, forgive me.”

Deborah chuckled. “I have forgiven you. Believe me. It's nothing.”

“Are you sure?”

“More than sure,” she said, giving me a warm smile.

“Like, really really sure?” I asked, returning a warmer smile at her.

She laughed.

“You're very funny, you know that? I can't believe you came all the way from wherever you came from to tell me this. I'm overwhelmed.”

“Actually, I school here.” I said. “I stay in campus.”

“I figured as much.” She said, and added. “Besides, you haven't even told me your name.”

“Don't mind me. I'm Chinecherem.”

“Chinecherem! It's a nice name. I'll rather call you Neche.”

“Anyhow you feel like.” I concurred shyly. She smiled.

“So . . . friends?” I stretched a hand towards her on impulse.

“Of course. Friends!” She ignored my outstretched hand and, instead, to the peak of my surprise, she pulled me into a warm hug. It was swift and light.

Then, we withdrew from the hug, both smiling like fragile teddy bears.

Finally, at long last, my dream came true!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 3

(By Sam Freddy.)

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I stood on the altar, neatly clad in my black suit, full of ecstasy.

The bells rang in a blaring, satisfying sound. The audience stood up with sheer expectancy. The back door of the church opened wide like heaven's gate.

And, as we all expected, there she was... beautifully dressed in her white, ever-glowing apparel, coupled with the attractive bouquet she held and the veil covering her face.

She walked down the aisle buoyantly as the crowd cheered and clapped merrily.

With a joyful heart, I sealed the ring on her finger and she did the same as well.

“Do you take her to be your lawfully wedded wife, in sickness and in health, in life and in death, in riches and in lack, till death do you part?”

“I do.” I answered calmly.

“Do you take him to be your lawfully wedded husband, in sickness and in health, in life and in death, in riches and in lack, till death do you part?”

“I do!” She said softly.

“With the power invested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife! You may kiss the bride.”

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A resounding slap landed across my back that jolted me up into reality from the blue, practically out of nowhere.

“Chineche, are you mad!” Hakeem's voice stirred in annoyance as he kept on slapping me at my back repeatedly.

Out of my state of shock, I pounced upright, panicking.

“Hakeem! Hakeem what is it again! What is your problem!?”

“Are you asking me?” He yelled back angrily. “When have you suddenly turned to an 'ogbanje' spirit overnight?”

“Hakeem take your time. I'm warning you o!”

“You should warn yourself instead, merman creature! You wouldn't let me sleep. You kept touching me all over, placing your legs on my body and disturbing my ears with whatsoever you were saying in your sleep! What is wrong with you?”

Right then, it suddenly dawned on me that the whole thing was a dream from the onset. No wedding ever happened. No marriage ceremony took place either. It was all, from the beginning, nothing but a dream.

In order to avoid any more trouble from Hakeem, I muttered a quiet “sorry” to him. He only hissed and sat up on the bed, stood up with a pillow and went over to join Fatai on the other bed.

I glanced at the wall clock and realized that it was early after six. It was raining heavily outside. I had a lecture to attend to at seven thirty. I also had no dime on me. That was, except for the little change for my meals through the day, and my transport fare.

I took a quick shower and freshened up hastily to beat the time. Fortunately, by the time I arrived at the lecture hall, it was only half past seven. Regardless of how early it was, the lecture hall was virtually half filled with a good number of students already. Many of which were in groups altogether, studying and bantering questions seriously at each other.

I wasted no time to occupy a seat at the middle row, next to a guy and a lady studying as well.

“Bros, how far.” I greeted politely, hoping to get his attention.

“What's up?” He answered in a friendly manner and offered a hand at me. We shook hands together in a guy-like way, and I waved at the lady sitting beside him.

"I don't understand. I just came in now and..."

"And you are confused, isn't it?" He interrupted me.

"Exactly." I affirmed.

"You are not alone, my brother. I was lost as well when I came in and met the whole class this way. According to what I heard, I think we are having a test."

"A test? How come?" I said loudly, almost screaming.

"If you ask me, na who I go ask my brother!" The guy said jokingly, somewhat in a mocking tone, which made the lady sitting amidst us let out a quiet laugh. I noticed she hardly talked, so I seized the chance to ignite a conversation.

“Aunty, are you laughing at me?” I asked in a teasing manner.

“Does she look like your auntie?” The guy cut in abruptly.

“Richard!” The lady called out in a reprimanding tone, giving him a scolding stare.

“Did I say anything wrong? He called you Auntie and I asked a question. Simple!”

“Don't mind him. I am Annabel.” She introduced formally.

“Chinecherem!” I introduced likewise.

“Chine wetin?” Richard cracked up with laughter. “Is that a name? Good Lord!”

“Richard!!” Annabel reprimanded again, loudly. “Behave mature for once!”

“Bro, no offense. It's nice to meet you.” Richard stretched a hand at me casually, which I shook in a brotherly way.

“Nice to meet you two, too.”

All of a sudden, the class started murmuring and parading rowdily as someone walked in. I noticed the figure was none other than Mister Tunji, the much awaited lecturer.

“Take out your bags, your phones and any other thing that could implicate you. And be fast about it.” He instructed sternly.

Thankfully, the only assets I had on me was a small handbag clutched across my shoulder, coupled with my phone and my wallet. I wasted no time to join the clique of students trooping out of the hall to drop their valuables.

The moment we got back inside, the sharing of scripts and answer sheets had begun.

—

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—

Moments later, a few minutes into the test to be specific, there I was — seated with a blank answer sheet as I chewed the lid of my pen. I had barely answered anything, save for one or two attempts, owing to the fact that I wasn't well prepared.

“30 minutes more!” Lecturer Tunji's voice resonated across the hall loudly. Murmurings and whispers filled the air almost immediately. I as well, on my own part, wasn't left out either. I chewed more and more on my lid with absolutely no clue of what to write down.

“Chineche!” Someone called from beside me. I turned my gaze at the figure only to realize that it was Annabel.

“Take this!” She whispered and stretched a piece of paper at me. Sharply, I collected it and started off with a rush, as quickly as I could.

After downloading the whole content of the sheet of paper into my answer sheet, I made sure I tucked it properly beneath my shoe and I also gave a thankful gesture towards Annabel.

“Pens up!” Lecturer Tunji's voice resonated loudly a few minutes later.

In all majesty, I stood up confidently as I trooped along with the clique of students to submit my paper. After that, we all clustered rowdily out of the lecture hall.

At that point all I had in mind was to pick up my bag, my phone and my wallet to head back home, due to my terribly starving stomach. But to the peak of my surprise, as shocking as it was, my phone nor my wallet were nowhere in sight — except for my bag.

I rummaged through the bag, searching every inch of it carefully and also flipped it upside down, but still nothing showed. I even went further to ask people around if by any chance they might have probably seen it, all to no avail.

It was of no use searching for it anymore. It had obviously been stolen. So, without wanting to make a scene out of a small issue, I clutched my handbag across my shoulder and I started to stroll the unbearable long distance back to the hostel.

With an empty stomach and an indifferent mood, combined with the scorching heat of the sun, I couldn't walk too far before I decided to charter a taxi with my last dime.

“Taxi!” I called out but the cab driver was probably out of earshot as he drove past me. I noticed another cab coming directly behind and I began waving. Fortunately, the taxi stopped a bit ahead from where I stood. I had to hasten my steps to meet up with the vehicle and quickly got in.

“Hostel three; block four.” I simply said.

“Hold your fifty Naira change oh!” The cab driver said and ignited the engine.

As soon as the vehicle began moving, the frustration I was dealing with before slowly resumed in my head again. I wasn't still convinced with myself that I had lost my phone and my wallet that easily.

In the middle of these thoughts, I felt a slight touch on my shoulder by my side. I turned to the direction at my side and, to the least of my expectation and to my greatest surprise, the fair-skinned angel-like damsel herself was the actual person sitting beside me.

“Deborah!” I gasped surprisingly.

“Neche!” She laughed slightly, showing a perfect set of dentition.

“What a coincidence!” I laughed as well. “Out of all the people in the world, I somehow happen to collide with you. God is wonderful!”

Deborah giggled. “God is wonderful indeed. How come you never noticed me sitting beside you all along?”

“It's a long story.” I simply said, in order to avoid the issue at hand.

“I am all ears. Tell me.” She insisted.

“Well, since you insist to know, I lost my wallet and my phone just now. It was stolen from my bag.” I explained.

“Are you serious?” Deborah's eyes widened brightly.

“I'm serious. It's painful.”

“Eyah! Iʼm sorry about that. Take heart, be strong.” She sounded downhearted and sober.

I had expected her to say something more, but instead, she took out a jotter and a pen from her purse and wrote something on it.

“But don't bother,” she continued saying, “hereʼs my number. Call me when you retrieve your line.”

She handed me the paper with a gentle smile and I collected it, staring blankly at her.

“Deborah, no offense but didn't you hear all what I just said? I said my phone was stolen and I don't think I would be getting one any time soon.”

“Neche, I said don't bother yourself.” Deborah simply said, sounding unbothered.

As I was about saying something in response, the cab driver interrupted me. “Bros where's your money, we are here.”

I looked through the glass and realized that we were at the front gate of my hostel. I then dipped my hand into my pocket to take out my last dime.

“I am dropping here too. Take, for two.” Deborah stretched a thousand Naira note to the cab driver before I could pay.

“What was that for?”

“What does it look like?” She asked back and came down out of the taxi. I opened the door and came down as well.

“Give him the change.” Deborah said, referring to the taxi man.

“I can't take it. Come on!”

“When you are ready, collect the balance from him. I'll see you later,” she simply said as she winked at me and turned to leave.

“Deborah. Deborah wait!” I called after her but she ignored me and waved backwards without sparing me a glance.

“Bros take your change abeg. Don't delay me!” The taxi man sounded vexed as he handed me the balance. I collected it and thanked him, heaved an exasperated sigh and proceeded toward the gate.

When I got to my hostel, the first thing I caught scent of was the aroma of fresh newly cooked noodles engulfing the air. The room was empty and I wondered where such aroma I was perceiving was coming from, so I traced it carefully and, as if I had luck shining on me, I immediately caught sight of the stainless plate hidden beside Hakeem's bed.

Without wasting time I took it up, balanced properly on the bed and started feasting on the food with haste. I saw a chilled sachet of water on the center table and took it as well to step it down.

“Hunger is a killer!” I said to myself as I scooped another spoonful and swallowed.

Almost satisfied, I shifted closer to the wall to rest my back properly. Then I heard noises approaching the door, precisely the voices of two people talking.

In a hurry I quickly covered the plate and kept it back under the bed, and fortunately, I was quick enough before Hakeem and Fatai walked in.

“Chineche how far,” Fatai gestured on sighting me. We exchanged pleasantries together as well as Hakeem greeted in his dialect.

“Guys something happened today o!” I said, trying to start a conversation.

“Wetin happen?” Fatai asked, concerned.

“I lost my wallet and my phone, too. Person thief am!”

“You see your life?” Hakeem cut in. “When you are too reckless even in your sleep, just tell me how you wouldn't be careless in real life!”

“So you still haven't forgotten this issue?” Fatai laughed out so hard, grabbing the bedsheets as he did so.

Hakeem was about saying something in response when he bent down, stretched his hand under the bed and took out the stainless steel plate. He opened the cover and immediately shouted, “Jeeesssus!”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 4

(By Sam Freddy.)

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“Chineche are you mad!” Hakeem flared up angrily, fixing a stern, cold look at my direction. “Are you insane! Are you normal at all? Did they swear for you abi God wan punish you!?”

He was practically moving towards me as he cursed and babbled loudly. Fatai had to stand up and hold him from coming any further.

“Hakeem, calm down. Behave!” Fatai tried interceding on my behalf as he blocked Hakeem's way forward.

“Fatai step away make I wound this boy,” Hakeem flared up the more, refusing to heed to Fatai's pleas. Nonetheless Fatai was relentless as well to pave the way for him.

“Fatai I go wound you o, I swear! I go wound una o!” Hakeem's voice was seriously getting louder as he struggled with Fatai's hold on his hands.

Just at that moment, the door to our room opened and Timi walked in, frowning.

“What is going on here?”

“Ask your friend! Ask him!” Hakeem ranted with a loud voice.

Timi turned around and looked at me with an obviously puzzled facial expression. “Chineche what's going on?”

I heaved a sigh and turned to face Timi.

“I ate his food.”

“Are you mad?” Hakeem cut in. “You ate my meat, you ate my fish, and as if that one wasn't even enough, you still get mind chop my egg join. You must be mad!”

“Would you shut up!” Timi fired back at him. “So you mean it's because of food you want to bring this whole house down? Ordinary food!”

“Timi na me you dey follow talk?”

“I am talking directly to you. Fool!” Timi affirmed and continued. “If na me be you shame for dey catch me. You don't have any iota of shame! Just have this token to yourself and stop ranting.”

Timi removed a five hundred Naira note from his back pocket and flung it at Hakeem. He then turned, facing my direction.

“Chineche, come outside let's talk.”

Without hesitating, I followed Timi outside and we stood at the balcony of the hostel. I had thought he wanted to talk about the issue concerning I and Hakeem, but he outrightly surprised me instead by his sudden statement.

“I saw Deborah on my way.”

He turned to look at me, then continued. “And I spoke with her. She said she would like to see us at the joint outside the campus, particularly you.”

“Seriously?” I asked doubtfully.

“Do I look like I am kidding here?” Timi answered, frowning slightly.

“No! No, don't get me wrong. Iʼm surprised because I met her today as well and she never mentioned anything as such to me.”

“Well, that was what she told me to tell you. Iʼve done my part.” Timi said and began walking away. He went into the room and shortly after, he came back outside with Fatai following him.

“Are you coming or not?” Timi asked, somewhat annoyingly.

“But I thought she said just me and you?”

“Deborah's friend, Divine would be there as well. Divine is Fatai's girlfriend. Fatai is Divine's boyfriend. Don't you get the chemistry?”

“Leave him let's go.” Fatai exclaimed with a hiss and started walking away.

In order not to provoke them any further, I quietly followed them alongside till we got outside of the mini-campus — where we then took a cab heading toward an estate situated around the supposed joint.

When we eventually arrived and alighted from the taxi, prior to my expectation, the supposed joint wasn't just any random type of joint but an eye-catching restaurant. It had tables and chairs set outside of the exterior premises, and a flat screen television at the center, coupled with waiters dressed in purple and black uniforms.

I, Timi and Fatai took seats at a round table set aside at the far end of the restaurant, adjacent to the flat screen TV. Deborah and Divine were nowhere in sight, which undoubtedly meant that they were yet to come. Timi and Fatai ordered for beer while I simply took a canned bottle of Fayrouz.

Our focus was mainly glued to the television as we argued back and forth about the ongoing football match showing on the screen, until I felt a slight, tender touch from behind me.

“Neche!”

Only one person called me by that name — which undoubtedly was none other than Deborah — but something about this person's voice wasn't similar to hers in any way. I had to turn back to ascertain my curiosity.

“Annabel!” I gasped, surprised.

“Chineche!” She said again, adding a smile. “I was calling you all along but you couldn't hear me.”

“Oh, dear. Iʼm sorry. I was talking with my guys here in a very heated argument, that's why.” I calmly apologised.

Annabel shifted her gaze between Timi and Fatai and waved at them and they reciprocated her gesture, sharing pleasantries. She then tapped me and pointed at a direction and said, “I was sitting there. Thatʼs Richard on blue.”

I followed the direction she pointed at and, true to her words, I saw Richard, the same guy I had earlier met with her during the test in the lecture hall today, seated with another girl. He was laughing and holding hands with the lady, and she laughed back as well and kissed his cheek in a rather affectionate manner.

I was baffled.

“Isn't he your boyfriend?”

“Boyfriend?” Annabel repeated, surprised. “Richard is not my boyfriend o! Heʼs my cousin. We are related.”

“You guys don't even look alike.”

“Must we?” She said.

All the while we were talking, I noticed Timi had been cutting glances at me stylishly but I wasn't quick to fathom what he meant on time.

“Can I join you here?” Annabel asked, tapping my shoulder. I noticed Timi was shaking his head slightly and cutting glances at me again, but I still couldn't grab what he was trying to tell me.

“Sure, you can.” I affirmed.

Immediately I said that, Timi's eyes widened and a frown etched across his face. Annabel moved closer and took a seat next to me.

“Do you care for a drink?” I asked.

“No, thank you. Iʼm fine.”

I was about saying something in addition when I felt someone's legs kicking against mine from under the table. I looked down and saw Timi's legs and a phone outstretched to me beneath the table. I cleverly stretched my hand at the phone, collected it and glanced down at the screen.

“Are you alright? Tell her to go... Deborah is on her way...”

I read the context showing on the screen and diverted my gaze back at Timi. He was still frowning and annoyed, obviously.

“So like, are you expecting someone...or something?” Annabel's voice startled me all of a sudden.

“Actually I was really...” I was still saying when... as if by coincidence... walking through the door and into the restaurant in all her majesty appeared Deborah, accompanied by Divine.

Unlike earlier before when we had coincidentally met in the taxi, when she simply had a black top and a grey jean skirt as her outfit — she was now clad gorgeously in a bright red colored gown that stretched slightly above her knees. She was holding a handbag and a polythene nylon separately in both hands as she walked charmingly towards our table.

Annabel, Timi and Fatai must have noticed the direction I was looking at as they followed my gaze almost immediately. By this time, Deborah and Divine had gotten close to our table already.

“Baby!” Divine hollered cheerfully as she leaned over and hugged Fatai. Deborah on the contrary, judging by the odd look she had on her features, I could tell she seemed to have been taken aback by the female figure sitting next to me. However, I noticed she was quick to hide the disgusted look on her face as she settled down on a chair opposite me, next to Timi.

“You didn't tell me we were having a guest, though.” Deborah said, sounding calm. I noticed she had her eyes fixed on Annabel.

“You met me here, darling. You are the guest.” Annabel spoke up softly, returning a stare at Deborah.

I could tell chaos was looming ahead. In order to avoid any further catastrophe, I had to quickly chip into the scene.

“Deborah, this is Annabel my course mate. Annabel, meet Deborah my... fr...friend.” I stammered as I spoke.

“Hi.”

“Hi!”

Despite the greetings, I could still sort out an odd look from Deborah's eyes as she kept on staring at Annabel. I couldn't tell what exactly it was, but I knew for sure that this wasn't going to turn out well.

“I hope we didn't keep you guys waiting?” Divine asked from the other end.

“No, not at all.” Timi answered. “In fact, we just arrived right about now.”

“And Chineche, I heard about what happened to your phone and your wallet. Iʼm terribly sorry about that.” Divine added.

“It's nothing. It pained me at first but...it's nothing. I appreciate your concern, anyway.” I said, gesturing thankfully with a wave of my hand at Divine.

A wave of silence surged through our table momentarily as no words were uttered. Divine turned her focus back to Fatai and engaged him in a conversation. Timi also returned his focus back to the football match showing on the screen. It was now left out with I, Deborah and Annabel altogether, staring at each other.

I intended on breaking the eerie silence between us when someone spoke.

“So Deborah, what's up?” Annabel's voice, as cunning as it sounded, had a glint of innocence attached to it.

“I am fine.” Deborah replied, obviously faking a smile.

“So like...are you guys just friends... or?” Annabel said, winking repeatedly at Deborah.

“Just friends.” Deborah easily answered, still faking a smile. I could sense she wasn't feeling the least comfortable around Annabel.

“Annabel,” I chipped in, “could you please pass me a toothpick from your side?”

I had said that to divert her attention and any further awkward questions from Deborah. When she looked away, I turned my gaze at Deborah and sent an eye-to-eye signal and a gesture with my hands across my chest for her to keep calm.

Annabel turned back to face us and handed me the box filled with toothpicks. “Pick one, sweetie.”

“Annabel, Chinecherem!” I spoke up instantly. “Chinecherem is my name!”

“Is it a bad thing to call you sweetie?”

“Stop.” I said bluntly.

“You are making it sound like it's a big deal.” Annabel persisted, now placing her hand on top of my shoulder.

I diverted my gaze at Deborah to see her glancing back at me with a frown. She was smiling and at the same time, frowning.

“I have to go.” Deborah said and hurriedly stood up to her feet.

“But Debbie we just came now!” Divine chipped in.

“I really have something I should be attending to, please excuse me.” Deborah shrugged and took her handbag, grabbed the polythene nylon she came with and started walking away.

Without wasting time, I jerked off Annabel's hands away from my shoulder and stood up to chase after Deborah. She hastened her steps in a very quick pace without looking back. I tried calling after her as I ran, but she ignored me.

By the time I was able to catch up with her, we were now out of the restaurant and she was standing by the roadside, trying to board a taxi.

“Deborah please wait, at least hear me out.”

“If you had known you would bring your girlfriend to embarrass me this much, you should've at least been kind enough to inform me.”

“Deborah you are getting it all wrong. Annabel is not my girlfriend. I barely even know her!”

“You must think I am stupid or something.” Deborah hissed and waved at a taxi moving by. The cab stopped directly in front of us.

“Debbie hold on!” I clutched my hand gently on her shoulder.

“I left all what I was doing and came all the way here to give you this, and the least you could do was to embarrass me. Isn't it?” She shook my hand away from her shoulder and flung the polythene nylon she had been holding all along into my hands.

“Debbie!!” I called out for the last time, but unfortunately, she had gotten into the taxi already. I stood there and watched how the taxi took off, still calling after her name.

I heaved a sigh and looked down at the polythene nylon, opened it and took out the content.

To the least of my expectation and to my utmost surprise, a brand new Infinix Hotnote smartphone was what glowed back at me. It was packaged in a pack with its accessories complete inside.

I took one last glance at the taxi Deborah had boarded as it moved on, far out of sight.

What did I do wrong to deserve such aggression? I wondered!

#SISTER_DEBORAH 

Episode 5

(By Sam Freddy.)

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I returned home that night with a troubled, weary mind. I wasn't able to sleep regardless of how hard I tried.

Images of the incident that happened between Deborah and Annabel kept flashing into my head persistently. I was downhearted and utterly disappointed with the turn out of events. I didn't know whether to blame Deborah, myself or Annabel; but I solely took a sizable portion of the blame upon myself.

However, on a very regular day, I would have obviously pleaded with Timi to accompany me to Deborah's hostel so as to sort things out and probably plead with her, but unfortunately for me, it was already quite far too late around the time she boarded the taxi and left in annoyance. It was part of our rules and ethics in the campus that after a particular hour in the evening, no visits between the male section to the female section of the hostels were welcomed — likewise the same rules as applied to the female category. So, I couldn't see that idea working out for me.

I made up my mind not to tamper with the Infinix Hotnote mobile phone Deborah had annoyingly given to me until I see her the next day and settle things with her, amicably.

Slowly, fatigue took over my weary mind and I soon fell asleep, hoping for a better tomorrow.

—

—

—

First thing the following day, I woke up by 06:00 on the dot. Being a Friday morning, unlike every other usual day, we had limited lectures in our departments at various faculties today. Timi and Fatai were still asleep when I looked over at their bed, while Hakeem on the contrary, was awake; standing next to my wardrobe. He was oblivious about the fact that I was also awake and watching him. Slowly and gently, he opened my wardrobe and took out the polythene nylon which contained the cellphone.

“Well done!” I said loudly. Loud enough to make him shiver in fright.

“Chineche good mo...mo-rn-ing!” Hakeem stuttered as he turned around to face me, still frightened.

“What are you doing at my wardrobe?” I stood up from the bed and walked toward him.

“I was looking for...comb...my comb!”

“Since when did your comb start lodging in my wardrobe? Hakeem, better respect yourself. Don't let us start again this early morning.” I hissed and collected the nylon from him, then I placed it back into the wardrobe, took out some clothes and then bolted it shut with a padlock.

“Who even dash you phone? For your mind now you don hammer!” Hakeem babbled tauntingly. I ignored him and took out a bucket and my clothes as well and went outside.

One minute I was in the bathroom freshening up, the next minute I was back at the hostel room fully dressed. I clutched my bag across my shoulder and checked the time — which was now 06:32. I still had time.

Without wasting further time, I sprinted out of the room and walked as fast as I could to make it early to my faculty.

Along the way, I caught sight of a familiar handbag and a butterfly designed dress worn by a lady from afar. I squinted my eyes slightly to have a clearer view of her distant figure, and true to my expectation, she was indeed the actual person whom I had in mind.

I increased my pace and walked faster at first, until I started jogging, which then resulted into a faster sprint. In no time I was able to cover the distance and catch up with her.

“Deborah!”

I was behind her, contemplating if I should tap her on her shoulder or not as she continued walking. I realized she had earphones plugged into her ears. Divine on the other hand, who was also walking beside Deborah, heard my call clearly.

“Debbie, someone is calling you joor.” Divine tapped her hand and unplugged one side of the earpiece from her ear.

“What is it?” Deborah asked, annoyed.

“Didn't you hear me? I said someone called you.”

“Who?”

“Look behind you.”

Deborah turned and looked back properly and our eyes met each other's gazes, and immediately, her countenance changed.

“I can't see anybody.”

“Deborah, please wait, let's talk.” I said calmly.

“Who is talking? Is anybody talking? I can't see anyone.”

“Debbie stop this, the guy wants to talk to you.” Divine intervened.

“Which guy?! But I still can't see anybody!”

I was getting fed up with the attitude she was putting up, and so I did the only thing that crossed my mind at that moment. I went on my knees.

“Just so you know how serious I am.” I exclaimed bluntly.

Passers-by were staring at the scene I was creating, but I cared less.

“He wants to propose to her!” I heard someone say among the crowd of onlookers.

I returned my avid focus back to Deborah. Embarrassment — in its fullest degree — etched across her face with her eyes wide open.

Then, to the least of my expectation, she turned around and started walking away.

“Oh my God, she turned him down!” The same person spoke again.

“Bros take heart, sorry oh!” another voice said.

Divine was still standing there, baffled. I stood up to my feet as well. Something in my mind kept urging me to run after Deborah but I shrugged it off. I decided to let her go.

“I would talk to her...” Divine said and patted my shoulder reassuringly, then she turned around and walked away, too.

Embrassment, in all honesty, was the least of emotion I felt as I left the scene of passers-by and onlookers. I continued to walk to the lecture hall with a clouded, worried mind.

What have I done? I debated within myself. Was it even necessary? What prompted me to act that way? How did it cross my mind?!

More and more thoughts and questions piled their way into my head as I walked further, only for me to realize that I had arrived at the entrance of the lecture hall. I went inside, situated a vacant seat and sat down.

“Is it that you don't usually see clearly during the day or what?” a voice startled me from behind. It sounded feminine.

I looked back and, true to my assertion, she was the very person I thought it would be. Within a second or two, she stood up from her seat and crossed over to join mine.

“Chineche, I hope you know that today is valentines day. What do you have for me?”

I ignored her.

“You don't want to talk to me?”

Again, I ignored her.

“In case you don't know, almost half of the class are on red and white clothes. Check me out, how do I look?”

From the corner of my eyes, I stole a quick glance at her dress code. She was wearing a short-sleeved shirt with red and white stripes imprinted all over it, and a pair of plain white leggings and sneakers to match.

“Won't you say something?”

“It's alright.”

“It's alright? Is that all?”

“Annabel, what else do you want me to say?”

“I don't understand you today. Is this about yesterday's minor issue?”

“You call that minor?”

“Yes, it really is. I called you sweetie. It's a normal thing.”

“I told you to stop, didn't I?”

“Why are you making a big deal out of this? Is it because of that girl?!”

Right there and then, I stood up from the chair, took up my bag and vacated the seat. I went to the front row and secured another seat amidst people. This way, I was able to avoid Annabel's pestering attitude.

Later that day after lectures, I wasted no time to dash out of the lecture hall partly because I wanted to boycott Annabel, and secondly because I wanted to meet up with Deborah before she leaves her faculty. Unfortunately for me when I eventually got there, I was told that she had long gone by Divine, who still remained behind in class.

Divine assured me that she had spoken with Deborah on my behalf, and that I could trace her back to the hostel to sort things out properly. I heeded to her suggestion and turned back again.

In no time, I eventually arrived at the female hostel and located Deborah's room. I had intended on placing a knock but surprisingly, the door was standing ajar.

Out of courtesy, I remained rooted to my spot and called her name instead.

“I can see you. Come in.” A voice called out to me.

I walked inside and -- truthfully speaking -- in all honesty -- the scent I was ushered with was more than exotic. It was best described as pleasantly enchanting.

I looked by the side and saw Deborah seated on the bed with her legs crossed, a pillow engulfed in-between her laps, and her phone in her hands.

“How may I help you?” She said, without sparing me a glance. She had her avid focus on her phone.

“Deborah I want to talk. I want us, as in me and you to talk.”

“About what exactly?” She queried, still keeping her focus on the phone.

“It's about yesterday and today's issue.” I said.

“Ok . . . go on. I am listening.”

I went closer to her and with a beating, trembling heart, I sat next to her on the bed. She didn't seem to mind at all, judging by the fact that she didn't say anything or spare me a glance whatsoever. So I advanced further by placing my hand on top of hers. I was determined.

“Deborah, I am sorry.” I said wholeheartedly. “I know I fumbled and I messed up but please, just this once, let me make it up to you.”

This time, after I finished my words, Deborah raised up her head and faced me properly.

“I have forgiven you, Neche. I just didn't like what you did. It was childish. You and your girlfriend embarrassed me yesterday and as if that wasn't enough, you still went ahead to humiliate me again today. It's really annoying!”

“Deborah, Annabel isn't my girlfriend. Besides, I really want to make it up to you. Give me a chance.”

“How do you intend to do that?”

“I heard today is valentines day. If you don't mind, we could stroll to somewhere, hang out together and talk things out.” I suggested.

Deborah fixed an intense stare at me for a moment, almost as if she was thinking deeply, before answering “I've heard you.”

“Seriously?” I exclaimed doubtfully.

“I am serious.” She affirmed, smiling.

I couldn't fathom what came over me at that moment, but the excitement in me pushed me to hug her tightly. It was a quick, affectionate hug though.

“Chineche, you are something else entirely!” She laughed after I pulled from the hug.

“But mind you,” she continued saying, “we can't leave exactly now. I still have to take a shower and freshen up. Is that okay with you?”

“It's perfect.” I answered. “In fact, I also have to rush back home now for something. So let's just make it in about an hour time, at the same venue we met yesterday. Is that alright?”

“Iʼm fine with it.” She answered.

“So . . . I better be on my way then.” I said and stood up from the bed, heading toward the door. Deborah stood up as well and followed closely behind me.

“See you later!”

“See ya!” She said with a smile and closed the door.

Immediately, I jumped up excitedly, full of ecstasy. I couldn't contain the excitement to myself as I strolled back home with indescribable joy dancing in my heart.

In a brief moment I soon arrived at our hostel. Timi, Fatai and Hakeem were all seated inside, playing a game of ludo. I wasted no time to inform and gist them about everything that transpired between I and Deborah after we had all shared pleasantries. They started to hail me with praises and eulogies after listening to my tale.

“Is this supposed to be a date or something?” Timi asked.

“I don't even know...” I responded. “I'm not sure.”

“I think she actually sees it as a date. If that is what she thinks, then you seriously have to impress her.”

“I know.” I affirmed. “But you guys have to help me. I need a favor.”

“What favor?”

“Timi, I need to borrow your suit. Fatai, abeg I would need your pure white sneakers if you don't mind. And Hakeem, that your wine you kept in your bag, I go need am too.”

“I should give you which wine?!” Hakeem cut in. “It's like something is doing you...”

“Hakeem abeg na! I won't open it, I promise. It's just for show off.”

“Are you sure?”

“I promise, walahi!”

“No problem, I'd give it to you.” He agreed.

Right there and then, I borrowed Timi's suit and Fatai's sneakers followed by Hakeem's wine. I still borrowed Fatai's perfume to spray on myself, after which I borrowed Timi's dark shades to match my outfit exquisitely.

I needed to impress Deborah by all means!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 6

(By Sam Freddy.)

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It is a normal thing for anyone to get over excited and anxious when having a fixed meeting with an opposite sex. In fact, using myself as a good case study, I couldn't fathom if I was just excited, anxious, expectant or nervous about my supposed 'date' with Deborah, but I surely wanted it to be perfect. I wanted to impress her beyond her expectations.

I made it to the venue we had both fixed at exactly 7:05pm. Most likely due to the fact that it was valentines day today, I wasn't surprised to meet almost half of the restaurant filled up with people, which were mostly students from campus with their loved ones. Everything felt different about today, almost as if there was a sensual indefinable romantic atmosphere clouding everywhere! There was love in the air, certainly.

I secured a table for two at a reserved part of the interior corners of the restaurant where the lights were multi-colored and dim; furthermore beautified by the flowers and the colorful roses surrounding our table.

I noticed a waiter passing by and called after him. “Waiter!”

Another waitress answered me instead. “At your service, Sir.”

“No, not you. I mean you.” I pointed at the actual waiter I had in mind and he started walking towards my direction. When he approached my table closely, I opened the nylon containing Hakeem's wine and took it out.

“Sir, what would you like to be served?”

“What is your name?” I asked, dismissing his question.

“Tunji, sir.”

“Tunji, I need a favor from you.”

“What could that be, sir?”

I looked around to ensure that nobody was eavesdropping on our conversation. “Tunji, bend down a bit let me whisper it to you.”

Without hesitating, he did as he was told and leaned slightly close to me.

“Tunji, I know you are a correct guy... because you look very smart and agile, that's why I chose you for this particular favour. Can I confide in you?”

“Sure, sir. Tell me how I can be of help.”

“I want you to help me take this wine here, store it somewhere else because I have a guest coming soon. I don't want it to look as if I am broke to her. It would be a thing of shame. You understand what I mean shey?”

“I do.” He answered.

“You can even help me put it in a freezer to make it cold,” I continued saying, winking at him. “Don't worry, I'll settle you for sure.”

“No problem.” He obliged. “Is there anything else?”

“I just want it to be perfect, that's all. I dey use God take beg you abeg, no go fumble o!”

“I said no problem bros. Trust me.” He responded reassuringly. Thereafter, he expertly collected the wine from me and hid it under his short apron as he walked away.

I heaved a satisfactory sigh, gradually feeling at ease again. I was looking around when I caught sight of an empty can of Malt underneath my table. Expertly, I picked it up and placed it on top of the table. I wanted Deborah to have the impression that I had taken the Malt while I waited for her arrival.

As I returned my focus back to the surrounding, it wasn't long before I soon caught sight of the lady of my dreams I had long been waiting for, standing outside of the exterior premises of the restaurant. Obviously, she was clearly confused like an engineering student battling with serious Math problems, judging by the puzzled look etched across her face as she looked around, probably trying to find me.

I could have easily waved at her in order to ease the burden for her from where I sat but I wanted her to find me by herself. Instead, I took a closer look at her dress code which comprised of dark blue jeans, a white V-neck top worn inside, and a light blue jacket that effortlessly matched with her blue sandals. She looked even more attractive with her natural hair curled freely.

Eventually, as though by coincidence, she reflexed her gaze towards the interior corner of the restaurant and our eyes met each other's stare instantly. She smiled, I smiled too, and she began walking towards my direction.

After settling comfortably on the chair opposite mine, Deborah fixed her gaze back at me, still smiling.

“I know I kept you waiting. So so sorry.” She said calmly, almost blushing pale red.

“No, not at all. You are right on time. So so early!” I mimicked her exactly the same way she had said it and we both burst into laughter.

“Neche, jokes apart, you look very corporate today. Take a look at your fitted suit, itʼs as blue as my jacket!” She exclaimed in admiration, obviously very amused by the sleek fancy outfit I was wearing. If only she knew I borrowed it though.

“Youʼre not looking bad either.” I said.

She smiled. “Thank you. Besides, isn't this a can of Malt I am seeing next to you? So you have quickly taken Malt just now?”

“Wetin man go do?” I laughed slightly, pretending to be the actual owner of the empty canned Malt.

“In fact I want my own Malt right now!” Deborah ordered playfully, faking a stern frown.

“Are you sure?”

“I mean it.” She folded her hands tightly, still faking a frown.

I looked around and thankfully, I saw Tunji standing at a far end serving some customers. When he was done serving them and turned back to leave, I called after him. “Waiter!”

“What are you doing?” Deborah asked.

“I thought you wanted Malt, didn't you?”

“I was only joking!” She said.

By this time, the waiter had already approached our table and stood next to us.

“Good evening, sir. Evening, madam. What can I offer you both?”

“Do you have Malt?” I asked, looking up at him. I was cutting glances at him and shaking my head slightly at the same time so he could play along.

“Sorry sir, it's finished.” He said. “But we have a large variety of wines!”

“Debbie, do you drink wine?” I asked, looking at her.

“As long as it's non-alcoholic wine, then Iʼm game!” She answered.

“Okay, bring us a bottle of non-alcoholic wine.” I said to the waiter, still cutting glances at him.

“Neche what is your problem? I was only joking!” Deborah said the very moment the waiter left our presence, sounding a bit annoyed.

“Why are you vexing?!” I said calmly. “After all, we aren't just going to sit here all night talking without taking something, are we?”

“Does it have to be wine?” She questioned back. “I don't think you know how expensive this restaurant is yet.”

“I am the one spending it. I'll sort it out. Relax!” I assured her softly. I could see she was obviously concerned about my financial state at that moment. If only she knew about the source of the wine though.

Shortly after, the waiter returned with two glass tumblers and a bottle of wine in a small tray. He arranged them on the table and set the wine aside.

“I am sorry sir, but we seem to have run out of non-alcoholic wines. Andre wine is the only brand we have left. Do you mind?”

In my inner mind, I was very glad that my plan was working out perfectly. I had intentionally borrowed this actual wine from Hakeem knowing fully well that it was alcoholic and that Deborah would certainly decline taking it, but her sudden response undoubtedly took me by surprise.

“Don't worry, drop it. I'll manage.” She said, collecting the wine from the waiter. Immediately she did so, my heart started beating rapidly.

“Do you really want to take that wine? It's quite too alcoholic for you.” I said, trying to persuade her to return it.

“I said I'll manage it. Is it your concern?” She asked, somewhat provoked. I decided to hush up and stay calm, uttering nothing else in response.

“Do you have an opener, please?” Deborah asked the waiter, who in turn took out a medium-sized wine opener from his apron and proceeded to open the wine, but Deborah stopped him.

“I didn't say you should open it. However, I appreciate your services. You may leave.” She said with a calm smile, taking the opener from the waiter. After he left, she returned her focus back to me.

“Neche, I reserved the honor for you to specially be the one to open it yourself since it's your idea in your own way of making it up to me!” Deborah exclaimed, passing the wine to me.

“You want me to--to op--en it?” I stammered, feeling my heart beat thumping even more.

“Of course, open it.” Deborah affirmed.

I remained motionless and stiff all of a sudden as I transferred my gaze between the wine, Deborahʼs anxious face and the opener in front of me.

“Do you need help or something?” She asked, looking worried.

I stayed silent, still gazing absentmindedly between the opener and the wine. I didn't know what to choose, what to do or what to say to avoid opening this particular borrowed wine.

“I think I'll rather open it myself then!” Deborah finally said, dragging the wine to her side and the opener as well.

My heart beat increased tempo up to times ten instantly!

Before I could even blink an eye, Deborah popped the wine's cover directly in front of me and I immediately knew I was finished!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 7

(By Sam Freddy.)

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“Let's have a toast!” Deborah cheered after popping the wine's cover and then poured some into my tumbler and into hers as well.

I was still shocked, obviously, but there was nothing I could do about it anymore. The wine had been opened already and nothing could change it. I had to play along.

I took up my glass and raised it up. “A toast to a new beginning and a solid friendship ahead!”

Deborah raised her glass likewise. “A toast to a solid friendship!”

We both smiled and clanked our glasses to a toast.

“Cheers!” I exclaimed, gulping down my wine.

“Cheers, and a happy valentines!” She cheered, taking a gulp from her glass as well.

“Do you celebrate valentine?” I asked randomly in a bid to start a proper conversation with her.

“It depends.” Deborah responded mildly. “I don't often go out so . . . I hardly do.”

“So what do you do instead?” I persisted further.

“I prefer staying indoors with my baby.” She answered.

Instantly, my heart skipped two beats on hearing her mention the word 'baby.'

“Your baby?” I repeated, slightly vibrating.

“Yes, my baby.” She laughed. “My phone is my baby!”

Immediately, my mind calmed down peacefully after she clarified her statement. I would have possibly committed suicide if it were to be the other way round!

“What about you, what do you do too?” Deborah questioned, taking another gulp from her glass.

“I don't even celebrate it.” I admitted truthfully. “I am mostly indoors with the guys; Hakeem, Timi and Fatai. We either play ludo games or discuss about random issues, that's all.”

“Sounds boring to me!” Deborah yawned jokingly, forming a stale uninterested facial expression.

“So... tell me about your family.” I asked, in a bid to further our conversation.

“Where do I even start.” Deborah exclaimed, looking nervous.

“Anywhere you feel like starting from. Feel free!” I assured her gently.

She heaved a slight sigh. “Alright. I am the only daughter from a family of five. I, my parents and my two elder brothers. I hail from Ibadan but I virtually spent most of my life in Imo state. I was born and bred there.”

“Ibadan?” I repeated, amused. “I don't believe you. It doesn't show on your face in any way!”

Deborah giggled. “Do you expect me to have it on my forehead! I inherited the traits of an Igbo-like resemblance from my mother, of course.”

“But I don't really get it. I mean, how come you hail from Ibadan and you happen to spend most of your life in Imo state?” I asked curiously.

Deborah heaved a sigh and looked away before speaking. “Sadly, my parents are long divorced so I was solely left with no choice than to stay separately with my mother in her state, which happens to be Imo state in particular. I was raised there all my life.”

“What about your father?” I inquired, taking a sip from my glass.

“He's doing well wherever he is, by God's grace. He stays here in Port-Harcourt with my step mother. Even upon how close we are, I still feel very distant and emotionally far from him. I hardly feel close to him unlike my mother. It's just not the same.” She concluded, taking a sip from her glass as well.

“Iʼm sorry to hear that.” I tried comforting her, also tactfully switching the subject matter to another topic entirely to avoid Deborah getting emotionally traumatic.

“Do you speak Igbo?”

“Well . . . somehow, I guess, but not fluently.” She answered.

“Let me test you a bit. What does “ututu oma” mean?” I questioned, expecting her to say something wrong. To my utmost surprise, Deborah smiled and calmly replied. “It means good morning.”

I was baffled. We both laughed over her accurate response and then I took the bottle of wine, poured some quantity into Deborah's glass and filled mine as well.

“So tell me about your family background too, Neche.” Deborah asked after taking a brief sip from her glass, and then folded her hands on the table, staring at me.

“I'm Chinechem. I'm quite tall. I'm typically the guy of every woman's dreams. I aspire to build a mansion and own a Lamborghini in future. I also aspire to have someone like Deborah as a partner. Is that enough?” I blurted out in a rush, indirectly trying to make her laugh and at the same time, indirectly trying to express my feelings for her sarcastically. Fortunately, she laughed at the joke but unfortunately, she didn't seem to understand or read meaning into the last phrase of my words.

“You're very funny. Is that your family background I asked for? Silly boy!”

“Don't mind me. Just kidding.” I laughed and gulped down a large portion of my wine, cleared my throat and continued speaking: “As for me, I am blessed and lucky to be the only son from a family of four. I, my parents and an elder sister altogether. Though I originally hail from Owerri but I prefer my mother's side, Imo state.”

“Why?” Deborah asked, showing more interest.

“I just admire their ethics and culture, that's all.”

“Isn't it the same thing? After all, you guys are all Igbos combined.”

“It's not the same thing. We are different tribes.” I responded. “Besides, I'd like to ask you something, Deborah.”

“What could it be, if I may ask?” She exclaimed, obviously curious.

I leaned down and stretched my hand underneath our table and picked up the polythene nylon I had brought along with me. I opened it carefully as Deborah watched keenly, took out its content and placed it on top of the table.

“I brought it exactly how you gave it to me.” I said as calm and plainly as I could.

Deborah's reaction was odd, complex and partly amused until she spoke. “Why did you bring it back?”

“Why did you give it to me?” I questioned back, dismissing her question.

“You told me you lost your phone and your wallet yesterday, didn't you?”

“I sure did, but still...”

“So that explains it.” Deborah interrupted me. “I gave you this out of my own free will. Use it as a replacement for your phone.”

“I mean no disrespect but I'm sorry, I can't accept this.”

“Why?”

“Do you realize this is a Infinix Hotnote smartphone, Deborah?”

“And so? It's mine. I'm giving it to you willingly. I got it as a birthday gift from my father early this year and I have the receipt, in case you doubt me. Have it, it's yours now.” She concluded with an approving smile.

At that point, I didn't know what to say, how to react or how to act either having realized that Deborah's words and intentions were truly out of her own free will. I felt utterly amused and somewhat emotional but I didn't let it show too much.

“I am grateful, a whole lot. Thank you.” I simply said; forcing a smile as well.

“You're welcome.” Deborah answered, never letting go of her gaze on my eyes as well as I kept mine fixated directly into hers.

I smiled slightly, she smiled as well and coincidentally as I stretched my hand towards the bottle of wine on the table, so did she. It happened to be a brief reflex action as we brushed our hands against each other's and finally ended up grabbing the bottle together, hand-in-hand. Our eyes maneuvered upwards into each other's gazes and we both smiled again, uttering nothing. I then removed my hand from the bottle and watched Deborah refill our glasses quietly.

After filling the tumblers, she took a sip from her glass and turned to me. “Won't you switch on the phone, Neche?”

“Not now. I'll do that when I get home.” I answered calmly, taking a sip of my wine too.

“I already wrote my number at the back of the phone pack. Give me a call whenever you retrieve your line, alright?”

“Sure, I will.” I nodded.

Suddenly, a deafening scream erupted from a corner of the restaurant followed by a loud resounding slap. It was further accompanied by a loud sound of what seemed to be a bottle banging on the wall, and almost immediately, people started taking to their heels toward the nearest exit door.

From the center of where we sat, I could see a clear view of two guys fighting brutally over a lady; both armed with broken bottles. Hastily, I picked up the nylon containing the phone pack and scampered outside alongside Deborah, leaving our unfinished bottle of wine behind.

Outside of the restaurant, a ton-fold of customers had trooped out in large numbers and were murmuring and raining curses bitterly. I and Deborah however, barely catching our breath, stood at a far end amidst other customers.

“What's going on?” She asked, gradually regaining her breath in a slow but steady process.

“I think it's a fight or so.” I replied. “I am sorry for the ruined night. This wasn't the way I planned it.”

“It's okay. I understand.” Deborah nodded solemnly. “Maybe next time, hopefully. Though in all honesty, I really enjoyed your company.”

Before I could utter a response, Deborah's arms embraced me tightly like a womanʼs fitted crop top would do justice to her body, and then she withdrew very slowly, smiling.

“I have to go now, Neche.” She announced to my dismay. In as much as it was arguably getting late already, a part of me still wanted to spend more time with her, but I seemingly had no other alternative. I had to see her off to the nearby junction.

When we got to the junction, I flagged down a taxi heading for campus, precisely at the female hostel, since I and Deborah weren't going to the same direction.

She smiled and waved at me as she was about entering the taxi but then I stopped her.

“Have this.” I said, handing her a bouquet of colorful flowers. I had bought them on my way to the restaurant earlier and reserved them in the polythene nylon with me. Deborah laughed and gleefully collected them from me, and to the least of my expectations, she slowly leaned forward and tipped on her toes to match my height, and then she pecked my cheek. Afterwards, she got into the taxi and waved at me as the vehicle moved ahead while I stood there, waving back and at the same time, utterly dumbfounded.

Finally, at last, she undoubtedly felt something genuine for me. I literally exploded with immeasurable happiness!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 8

(By Sam Freddy.)

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I had a lecture free day today being Friday. Luckily for me, I also happened to be the only one in the hostel since Timi, Fatai and Hakeem all had lectures in their various faculties.

I woke up as early as possible and went to the school's bank to withdraw some money, after which I diverted to a nearby sales outlet to purchase a new SIM card so I could retrieve my lost line.

Later on, I returned to the hostel and inserted the SIM card into the mobile phone Deborah gave me, then I switched it on.

As agreed, the first thing I did was to put a call through to Deborah's line but unfortunately, her number wasn't reachable. I attempted three more times yet it persisted with the same issue. I assumed she might probably be in the middle of a class session at the moment so I halted my calls.

However, I dropped a text message telling her to call me back when she had spare time. Thereafter, I subscribed my line and installed a few apps into the phone before having my bath, had a light meal and changed into something casual. I intended to stroll out a bit to the school field to hang around for a while, and from there to the salon to have a haircut and trim my beard.

In the middle of doing this, as I was almost prepared to leave, a knock came at the door.

“Yes, who's there?”

There was no response. Yet, the knock came again.

“Who is it?” I repeated.

Still, no response came forth. I walked toward the door in annoyance and opened it, only to see the least of all people I expected at my doorstep — Deborah.

I was literally dumbfounded for a moment, seeing her dressed in a native attire locally called Iro and Buba, with the blouse elongated as a sleeve coupled with her pink and white handbag matching the lace material. In summary, she simply looked enchanting. I was utterly lost for words.

“Hello--oo?” Deborah's voice jolted me out of my reverie. “Can I at least come in? You stare too much.”

I managed to subdue my amusement aside and responded. “Sure, you can. Please come in.”

The moment Deborah stepped inside, as if by coincidence, the power came on all of a sudden. It was unusual, odd and completely unexpected but it was certainly the perfect timing at that moment.

I ushered her to the only seat we had in the room, while I sat on the bed facing the chair.

“Are you comfortable?” I inquired.

“I am.” She answered. “You should be thanking me right now. I brought my good luck charm that brought your light in turn.”

I laughed. “Good luck charm indeed. It's just by coincidence, nothing more. Besides, this one you came to my hostel today, am I safe?”

Deborah giggled. “You are safe dear. I was just heading to my aunt's place and decided to stop over and check up on you.”

“That's nice of you. I am honored. However, how were you certain that I would be around?”

“Like duh!” She rolled her eyes. “It's Friday for goodness sake . . . and almost everyone knows that you mass communicators are mostly free on every blessed Friday.”

“I see.” I heaved a satisfactory sigh and added. “Which reminds me, I called your line severally earlier on but it didn't go through. You didn't pick up. I even sent a text too.”

“I got your text message and the calls to be honest, but I intentionally ignored them to surprise you one on one. When did you renew your line?”

“A few hours ago, just this morning.” I responded. “I just want to say...” I was about saying when a sudden loud noise of thunder struck violently from outside. It was obviously about to rain. We could both hear shouting and screams from people outside running helter skelter.

Accompanied by the heavy thunder, a sudden power outage followed suit making the room completely dark.

“I have to leave now to make it on time to my aunt's place.” Deborah announced as she stood to her feet.

“It's about to rain heavily. I'll suggest you wait here for a while.” I suggested, but she shook her head abruptly in disapproval.

“I have to make it on time.” She insisted, heading toward the door. I simply nodded and followed suit behind her.

After unlocking the door and we both went outside, I was still on the verge of trying to padlock the door in order to see her off but unknowingly, Deborah had already started to walk away in a hurry. I tried calling after her but obviously due to her hastened movement, she totally seemed to be out of earshot.

Suddenly, another loud, deafening thunder struck again much louder and fiercer than the first and the drizzling rain turned to a heavy downpour. I heard Deborah's scream from afar as she began running back in haste, utterly drenched in the rain.

I opened the door and led her back inside. She was completely soaked from head to toe, and she was shivering badly.

“I told you to stay and wait here for a while, but you didn't listen to me, now you see the outcome?” I said, partly annoyed. She didn't say anything except nodding her head vehemently, still shivering.

I helped her with her bag and offered her a seat, after which she took off her shoes and handed them to me, and I placed them on the table beside her bag.

“Should I make you a cup of tea?” I asked. She nodded in approval. I then took out some beverage and a cup from my wardrobe and took them to the small store room we managed as our kitchen to boil water.

By the time I returned, Deborah had already changed her position from the chair to the bed, now clad only in a black singlet coupled with a matching bum-short. She had taken off her native attire and placed them on the table.

“Neche, I am cold.” She whispered, almost inaudibly.

I took a towel from my wardrobe and moved towards her, covered her with it and sat next to her on the bed. “Don't worry, just relax. The tea would soon be ready.”

“Okay,” she managed to mutter in response, still shivering. She placed her head on my shoulder and placed her hands on top of mine, squeezing them tightly.

Instinctively, I entwined my hands with hers and looked down at her face only to meet her gaze, staring back at me.

Our hands remained tangled in the same affectionate rhythm, as well as our eyes remained fixated into each other's stare. I could feel a certain indefinable passion surging through my whole body merely looking into her eyes.

Then, slowly and gently, I tilted her face closer to mine as the passion ignited into a warm, heated kiss. Her lips were moist, soft and very appealing.

One thing led to another and we soon found ourselves face-down on the bed, almost ripping each other's lips apart. I lay on top of her, caressing and smooching all sensitive areas of her body as she moaned audibly.

I caressed her bosoms through the transparent singlet and almost immediately, her reaction intensified as she wrapped her hands and legs around me, moaning loudly.

As I attempted to probe further with my caress, Deborah's breathing became unsteady and it intensified within mere seconds, and then all of a sudden, she screamed and started coughing raggedly. She rolled sideways, holding her chest tightly while vomiting white fluids from her mouth, desperately struggling to breathe.

“Deborah! Debbie are you okay?” I panicked to my feet, evidently confused. She kept on convulsing and vomiting non-stop.

All of a sudden, just at that very moment, the door banged open and Timi, Fatai and Hakeem walked inside, accompanied by Divine, Deborah's friend. They were all shocked at the bizarre scene they met.

“What's happening here?” Divine rushed to the bed immediately, trying to hold Deborah steady. I couldn't heave any response as I still stood there, petrified.

“Chineche, wetin you do am? What did you do to her?” Hakeem questioned, pointing at the bed and the white fluids all over the floor. I still couldn't talk, due to my aggravating fear. I was starting to sweat terribly.

Suddenly, Deborah stopped coughing and convulsing and her body stabilized.

“Is she still breathing?” I asked Divine, still sweating terribly and vibrating at the same time. Divine didn't respond.

“Divine, is she still breathing?” I repeated, more afraid now.

“No!” Divine shouted back at me, breaking into tears. “Sheʼs not breathing!”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 9

(By Sam Freddy.)

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My heartbeat increased tempo in a faster rate the moment Divine's words struck through my ears.

“She's not breathing?” I repeated, now more scared. A wave of fear and anxiety surged through my entire body, making me sweat and vibrate even more profusely.

“I need water, half a bucket of warm water and a piece of cloth or rag, quickly!” Divine spoke up, still trying to revive Deborah by rubbing and pressing her chest rapidly.

Without wasting time I rushed to the store room and returned back, carrying a bucket of water mixed with a little quantity of the warm water I had boiled earlier and intended using to make tea for Deborah, coupled with a rag as well. I handed them to Divine and stood there, watching how she tugged and folded the rag into the water, using it to dampen Deborah's face and her body entirely.

I placed my hands above my head, feeling beads of tears cascading down my face. Timi placed a hand on my shoulder with a reassuring look in place. “She will be fine, calm down.”

“Timi I am finished! I am dead! What do I tell my parents? How do I explain myself? Where do I start from?” I kept saying, weeping even more bitterly.

“I said she'll be fine, relax!” He said again, reassuringly.

“I have killed someone's daughter. I don die Timi!” I persisted with even more tears flooding down my face.

Just then, a loud cough erupted from Deborah's mouth and her legs moved. Instantly, a wave of silence engulfed the entire room. We moved closer to the bed where she lay, watching carefully and observing her as her legs moved again slightly, and then her eyes opened very slowly.

“Debby!” Divine said, patting her gently by the arm. “Are you okay?”

Deborah nodded in response. She tried to say something but seemed to be oddly weak and unable to do so, so she pointed instead at the direction of our fridge.

“She needs water.” Divine exclaimed, referring to me. I scurried toward the fridge in a hurry, took out a sachet of water and rushed back, and then I handed it to Divine. She tore it open and gave Deborah. After taking a few sips, Deborah's breathing stabilized properly and her demeanour normalized.

“She needs to rest as much as she can. I'll need you guys to excuse us for a moment, if you don't mind.” Divine spoke up.

“Including me?” I asked.

“Including you, too, Neche.”

Without hesitation, I, Timi, Fatai and Hakeem walked out of the room. We stood at the balcony outside. The rain had now turned from a heavy downpour to a light, drizzling shower. It fizzled with tender drops followed suit by an unpleasant, blistering cold.

“Chinecherem!” Hakeem called my name.

“Yes, Hakeem?”

“I have three questions I want to ask you.” He said.

“Go ahead.” I affirmed.

“One, are you mad? Two, are you crazy? And three, are you normal at all?”

I was taken aback by his rhetorical questions. “Am I supposed to answer that?”

“If she had died in your hands today, what would you tell her parents?” He persisted further, starting to get on my nerves.

“Hakeem, please respect yourself. I am not in that mood now.” I simply said, trying to keep calm.

“Of all the girls in this campus, you still choose to mingle with an epileptic individual. Chineche wake up! Use your head.” Hakeem continued persistently. I was about raising my voice back at him when the door opened and Divine came out.

“You are very stupid. You are a big fool for that thing you just said!” Divine pointed at Hakeem and spat at his feet. “Heartless animal! I don't blame you.”

She spat again at his feet and added. “I heard every single word you said. I don't blame you. I blame Deborah for not respecting herself and stooping so low to mix up with a riff-raff like you. Dirty thing!”

Divine walked back inside and slammed the door. Immediately she left, Timi and Fatai burst into laughter, pointing at Hakeem as they did so.

With deep shame, Hakeem looked away and hissed. The next thing we knew, the door opened up again and Divine came out, accompanied by Deborah. She held Deborah's bag and held her by her shoulder, hand-in-hand. Deborah was now dressed back in her native attire, still looking pale and partly weak.

“Divine hold on, where are you taking her to?” Fatai asked, puzzled.

“We are going home.”

“Home?” Timi repeated. “But you can see she's still recovering, and besides, the rain is still drizzling as well.”

“I don't care.” She hissed and rolled her eyes, and then continued walking away with Deborah. It was unusual for Divine to act or behave the way she did to us, but it was clearly understandable that her anger was due to the quarrel she just had with Hakeem.

I wanted to go after them but Timi stopped me, telling me to give her time to cool off. Fatai on the other hand, being Divine's boyfriend, also tried following them to plead and persuade Divine to return, but she paid deaf ears to him.

Later that evening, after much thinking and uneasiness within ourselves, we eventually concluded that we were going to go to Deborah's hostel to check up on her, at least to know how she was faring. I, along with Timi and Fatai altogether were meant to go. Hakeem refused to come along, probably out of sheer guilt.

Along the way, I went to a sales outlet close by where I bought a few items and beverages like a pack of Lipton, tinned Bournvita, a sachet roll of Nescafe, tinned milk and bread as well.

When we finally got to the female hostel, to the least of our expectations, we found the door to Deborah and Divine's room padlocked shut. I tried calling her line severally but it was switched off. Fatai tried dialling Divine's number as well yet it proved futile. She was intentionally ignoring his calls.

We proceeded further to ask about their whereabouts from some neighbours around the compound, but they also claimed not to have seen them at all.

“What do we do now?” I sighed exasperatedly, almost losing all hope.

“It's late already, we can come back tomorrow.” Timi suggested. Just then, we saw someone's figure from afar coming towards us, and it fortunately happened to be Divine. She came closer and approached us, then hissed. “Whatʼre you guys doing here?”

“Divine calm down. Are we quarreling?” I asked, calmly.

She folded her hands, rolled her eyes and looked away. “No, we are not.”

“So why the attitude na?”

“See, I don't have time. What do you want?”

“Fine! I want to see Deborah. Is she in?”

“Nope.”

“Where is she?”

“She has moved out.” Divine answered.

I felt a sting of shock surging through my body instantly. “Are you serious? How come? When? What time?” I asked all at once.

“She has moved out of here, period.” Divine exclaimed, walking away. Fatai held her back and gave her a cocky look.

“Divine, why are you behaving this way. He wants to see your friend. I know she is in there.”

“If you think it's a joke, come and see for yourself then.” She shook off his hands from her arm and walked toward the door while we followed behind her, unlocked the padlock and then switched on the lights.

True to Divine's assertion, a large portion of the room's space was vacant. The wardrobe was left ajar and was empty as well. There was no sign of Deborah's presence in the room.

“Neche, let's go home.” Timi said, sounding very annoyed.

“But Divine where exactly did she go to?” I asked, curiosity evident in the tone of my voice.

“I don't know.”

“Divine please, I beg of you. Please!”

“I said I don't know. Is it by force?”

I felt downhearted by Divine's unpleasant attitude and the unexpected turn out of events. I simply nodded, dropped the bag of items and beverages I came along with and walked out, infuriated.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 10

(By Samuel Frederick.)

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The weekend passed by slowly, terribly and was very devastating for me. I fell sick due to too much of thinking and restlessness. I couldn't make contact with Deborah ever since she moved out of the hostel; regardless of how many attempts I made either through friends in her department or through phone calls and text messages. I was completely frustrated.

By the beginning of the new week, I had missed three classes of lectures, knowing fully well that I wouldn't concentrate properly and that, moreover, Deborah wouldn't be around in her department because I desperately needed to see her.

On a certain Tuesday while I was in bed, still recovering from my illness, I got a text message from an unknown number stating – 'Please come online now.'

Curiously, I heeded the message and logged online on WhatsApp, only to realize that the profile belonged to none other than Deborah.

“Hello!” A message popped in from her on my notifications bar.

“Hello Debbie... long time! Where have you been?” I wasted no time to respond back.

“It's a long story, dear. I'm fine where I am now.”

“Where are u precisely?”

“... at my aunt's place.” She replied, adding a smiling emoticon.

“I've missed u... Why did u leave the way u did? You couldn't even inform me, at least. It's really unfair.” I texted back, eagerly waiting for her response.

“I have missed you too, Neche. But I had no choice. I had to go.”

“Deborah, in case you don't know, I fell sick for three good days just because of you. I tried everything just to get in contact with u but it was up to no avail. I am really dying deep down inside. I miss you. Please, come back.” I texted, inserting a sad-face emoji. She read the text and after a while, her response came in. “I understand how you feel Neche, but it's not my fault. It has to be this way. I am fed up! I am sick of my life!”

“Deborah stop it.” I reprimanded her. “Stop having negative and vile thoughts about yourself. Just stop.”

“It's easy for you to say, since you don't wear my shoes. I am asthmatic and an epilepsy carrier. I felt bad to tell you all along, in order not to change your opinion about me. But so far ever since that abrupt incident that happened at your place, I haven't felt one ounce of peace within myself since then. I feel very ashamed!” She texted, adding a sad-face emoticon afterwards. I felt deeply touched by her words. I could clearly see the extent of sadness and depression clouding her emotions.

I took my time to reply back, carefully expressing my words. “Deborah, in all honesty, I am least concerned about any ailment you might be facing at the moment. I care about you and that is all that matters. Why can't you see things from my perspective! I don't care about any health ailment or issues whatsoever. You don't have to be ashamed. I miss you terribly.”

After reading my message, I waited eagerly for her response but she wasn't responding back.

“Hello, are you there?”

She read it again, but still no response.

“Hey Debbie! Are you there?”

Yet again, no response came forth.

“Please answer me. What's wrong?”

“I have tears welling up in my eyes as we speak, Chinecherem. I am deeply touched by the level of love you have for me, regardless of my condition. I am speechless.” Deborah eventually texted in response, and added. “I really miss you too, and I want to surprise you. I am coming over today – for you.”

I was baffled. “Are you serious?”

“More than serious. I mean it.” She replied. “Get ready for my wahala when I come!”

I replied back with a laughing emoji. “I sure will! Iʼll be expecting you.”

“Me too dear. Goodbye for now!” Deborah responded and at that instant, her profile turned offline.

I couldn't contain the extent of joy and excitement that overwhelmed me at that moment. I suddenly regained strength from nowhere and leaped up from the bed and I started arranging the room and putting things to order.

In about half an hour, I had swept the whole room, mopped the floor, dusted the electronic appliances, fixed the curtains properly and arranged every notable thing in order. I had a thorough bath as well and selected a casual presentable outfit to enhance my appearance. I even sprayed perfume to top it off.

Later on, I called Deborah and she told me she was on her way, almost getting to campus. I became even more elated.

Fortunately, the power supply got restored at the perfect moment and I busied myself with a particular movie series, eagerly anticipating Deborah's arrival.

In the middle of this, I heard a knock at the door. I was alarmed. Could that be Deborah? I only just called her! I thought to myself — while proceeding toward the door.

The knock came again, more faint and lighter than before. I opened the door with a wide smile — only to see the least of all people I expected.

“Annabel?”

“Sweetheart! Longest time.” She beamed an elated smile back, too, with both arms outstretched for a hug!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 11

(By Samuel Frederick.)

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“Annabel!” I repeated, still plainly shocked.

“Long time Neche. It's been a while. I heard you've been ill for some time now. I've really missed you.” She smiled gleefully as she spoke. Before I could even utter a word, Annabel made her way into the room, looking around very slowly. “Good God — this place is fantastic!”

Without even offering her a seat yet, she ushered herself to a seat on my bed, dropping her handbag on the table nearby. I was infuriated not just because of her bad manners, but mainly because she came at a very awkward, wrong time. I didn't know how to tell her I had a guest visiting soon without probably getting her offended in the course of it.

“Is anything the matter?” Annabel asked, staring at me. “You don't look too happy to see me.”

“No, not at all.” I faked a smile. “It's just that I am surprised seeing you here this early, nothing more.”

She grinned widely. “Since you don't ask after me or care about me, I finally decided to see you on my own. I have really missed you. How have you been coping, and how is your health now?”

“Fine.” I simply said.

“Are you sure youʼre ok? I don't like the way you're acting and responding to me. Come and have a seat next to me.” She said, tapping a vacant spot on the bed.

“I am fine this way.” I answered, intending to seat on a plastic chair instead.

“Chinecherem I said come and sit here near me, now!” She repeated, putting up a frown. Reluctantly, I heeded her demand and sat on the bed, inches away from her.

“So did you miss me!” Annabel inquired, crossing her legs provocatively as she spoke, thus making her short mini-skirt pull up loosely in a bid to showcase her bare laps.

I diverted my attention from there and answered. “Yes, I have, but not too much.”

“Is that so?” She smiled, rubbing her lap in an arousing manner. I simply nodded. Annabel shifted closer and spread her legs mannerlessly, placed a leg on my lap and grabbed my hand in turn.

“Neche, look into my eyes, what do you see?” She spoke in a mildly low, seductive tone. Her voice sounded sweet and arousing!

With a beating, trembling heart, I managed to remain confident, calm and disciplined as I took off her hands and legs from my body.

“Annabel, stop it. Behave yourself.” I cautioned her. She didn't say anything rather than putting up a smile.

Right then, her phone slipped away from her hand and fell on the floor. She stood up to pick it up, leaning very low in a bending position, thereby making her skirt to slide up while her bare bums shot at my direction. I tried hard to look away but I couldn't — particularly seeing her plain white underwear shooting out at my face. Then slowly, she stood up after picking up the phone and returned to her position on the bed, smiling.

“Thank God it's still intact.” She said, facing me. I only nodded in response, almost perspiring.

“You like what you saw, right?”

“Excuse me?”

“See, stop the pretence. I know you know what I mean.” She exclaimed, advancing closer to me. Again, she placed her legs on my lap and her hands entwined with mine. Before I could utter any word, Annabel's lips situated its way to my lips as her hands caressed my face. I found myself reciprocating the kiss and fondling her bosoms at the same time.

Slowly and gently, we balanced properly on the bed in a lying position as Annabel remained on top of me while we continued with the pre-intimacy. We suckled on each other's lips, almost ripping them to shreds. It continued intensely until, out of nowhere, I suddenly got disgusted and pushed her away from me.

Utmost surprise — in all clarity — was what etched across Annabel's facial expression as she stared at me, dumbfounded.

“Annabel, leave this room.” I managed to say as calmly as I could and stood up from the bed.

“Neche, is anything wrong?” She asked, confused.

“I won't repeat myself.” I simply said, putting up a frown.

Just at that moment, a knock came at the door and it opened up. Deborah walked in — firstly sending me a quick glance and secondly, glancing over at the bed, where Annabel still remained almost half naked.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 12

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Deborahʼs bag dropped from her hand to the floor as she remained rooted to her spot, petrified. She had her avid gaze fixed on the bed where Annabel lay, still positioned in a rather half-dressed, unlikely way.

“Deborah I can explain!” I panicked, frightened; while taking steps towards her.

“Don't come any closer.” She gestured with her hand pointing at me, also taking some steps back. She picked up her bag with a tear drop cascading down her cheek, took one last glance at me, and then stormed out of the room, banging the door furiously.

I sank to a chair behind me with my hands covering my face — deep in confusion and in thoughts.

“Who was that girl anyway?” Annabel's voice resonated from behind me.

I raised my head with a thick frown and bloodshot eyes, facing her direction. “It's like you are mad, abi? Didn't I tell you to leave this room?”

“I am mad?” She repeated in a question-like manner. “I don't blame you. I left my comfort zone and came all the way here to check up on you, yet you have the audacity to insult me, all because of one fair skinned God knows who.”

Annabel crawled off from the bed, adjusted herself properly and picked up her bag.

“When you need me, you know where to find me. Rubbish!” She hissed and walked out, slamming the door behind.

I picked up my phone and dialled Deborah's number but as expected, she intentionally ignored my calls by hanging up persistently, so I dialled Timi and Fatai's lines instead and informed them to return home as soon as possible — and if possible — they could come along with Divine, Deborah's friend.

Moments later, my roommates returned home with sheer anxiety obvious from their faces, particularly Fatai. We exchanged pleasantries and after they had settled down, I commenced with the main issue.

“Where is Divine?”

“Divine no gree come oh.” Fatai responded.

I heaved a sigh and continued. “I am in trouble, as in, in a very deep mess as I am right now.”

“What's the matter?” Timi inquired, concerned.

I explained everything to them detail by detail, not excluding any part aside. They listened with keen interest until I narrated the whole drama that occured completely. Thereafter, Timi and Fatai started exchanging stares between themselves as they shook their heads irritably in disbelief.

“I never liked that girl from the onset. I never really did.” Timi interjected. 

“Annabel or whatever she is being called, especially with the way she portrays herself on skimpy clothes all the time, she isn't someone you should mingle with if you intend to keep a healthy relationship with Deborah.”

“And you know how soft and fragile Deborah is,” Fatai chipped in. “She is a free-minded, soft-hearted lady unluckily battling with asthma and epilepsy. She loves you and takes you as her major icon. She sees hope in you for her tomorrow. You should've thought twice before doing what you did to hurt her.”

“It wasn't my fault.” I heaved an exasperated sigh, overwhelmed by guilt. “So what is the way forward now?”

“You will have to plead with her, make her understand that nothing intimate happened between you and Annabel. Hopefully if she agrees, it's your luck. If she doesn't, well, it's still your luck. There is no other alternative.” Timi suggested.

Just in the tension of the moment, a faint knock came from the door and it opened up as my messiah for that moment walked in defiantly.

“Divine!!” Timi and I chorused together, amused.

Fatai only smiled as she walked in and took a seat next to him. “I'm glad you could make it. Thank you for coming, dear.”

Divine reciprocated a smile too. “It's my pleasure as long as it's for you, babe.”

Curiously looking around, Divine's facial expression soon changed to a sullen look as her gaze remained fixated on me. “You guys don't look too happy. What's wrong?”

“Divine, we need your help. I in particular... and it's urgent.”

“What is it this time, Neche?”

“Do you know where Deborah resides now?”

“No, of course not.” She denied.

“Divine I'm serious, it's really urgent. Please.” I pleaded persuasively.

“I am not supposed to tell you this but I will, based on my compassion for you. Deborah stays at her aunt's place for now. It's not too far from campus.” She admitted genuinely.

“Can you take us there?” Timi asked.

“Thatʼs impossible.”

“Divine please, I am pleading, at least reconsider on my behalf.” Fatai intervened, holding her hand. Divine hesitated for a while, sharing glances with him, before letting out a sigh.

“Iʼve heard you.”

I smiled at Divine's words, knowing that she had fully agreed.

“So when do we leave?”

“Right now, if you wish.” Timi answered, getting up on his feet. We stood up as well and clustered out of the hostel as Divine led the way forward.

In less than an hour later, we eventually made it to a certain junction in a secluded estate where the taxi had to drop us. Divine led the way further while we followed her until we arrived at a small, red gate. She opened the gate and we went inside.

The exterior view of the compound was moderate and spacious, with a small plot for flowers and crops situated at a corner, while the ground was cemented as well. The house was a bungalow painted in crimson red and brown.

We approached the door and Divine pressed the door bell's button twice. In a short moment, someone showed up from the glass view of the mirror on the door and opened up. She was a teenager.

The moment she opened the door, a smile crept upon her lips as she screamed and hugged Divine excitedly.

“Good afternoon, aunty Dee!”

“Afternoon, dear. Howʼre you doing?” Divine exclaimed, pulling out from the hug. “Youʼve grown so big!”

The teenage girl laughed. “You too, aunty Dee. Iʼve missed you so much!”

“I missed you too dear. Is your aunt in?”

“Sister Debby?”

“Yes, is she in?”

“Of course, she is. Why don't you come in!” She said, making gestures at the door.

“No, just tell her I'm here with visitors.”

“Okay,” she said and went back inside.

My heartbeat started pounding hard in my chest. Timi noticed how nervous I was and patted my shoulder gently, giving me a form of assurance. 

After a while, the door opened up again and the teenage girl showed up, accompanied by a pale-looking, sore-faced Deborah. Her eyes were dull and dim and her face was pale, like she had obviously been crying.

Divine looked petrified at the sight of Deborah's numb and moody countenance.

“Babe whatʼs wrong? Have you been crying? What happened?” Divine approached her and placed an arm across her shoulder. Deborah remained silent with her gaze fixated into mine.

“What are you doing here?” her voice sounded broken and shredded with emotions. I could feel the pain she was feeling at that moment through the effect of her tone.

“What is he doing here?” Deborah repeated, facing Divine. “I don't want to see his horrible face!”

I tried getting closer to her to hold her hand.

“Don't you dare touch me! Animal.” She retorted, snapping her hand away.

“Debbie let me explain. It's not what you think. You misunderstood what you saw. Please, I can explain.” I tried moving close to her again to hold her hand. The next thing I knew, an unexpected slap wiped across my face instantly. I staggered backwards in plain shock, holding my left cheek which sustained most of the impact.

“I told you not to dare touch me. You ungrateful thing!” She spat at my feet and pointed a finger at me. “Leave this place now.”

“Deborah it hasn't gotten to that level yet. Please calm down.” Timi interceded on my behalf.

“I won't repeat myself. With all due respect, please tell your friend to leave this compound's premises before I lose my temper!”

She sounded extremely serious about it. She had no ounce of fallacy from her tone but still, I still wasn't willing to give up so easily. I tried moving closer to her one more time and this time around, she dodged my touch and backed away, before furiously storming back into the house. Divine followed after her, followed by the young teenage girl who continued pleading on my behalf.

Before I knew it, the door slammed open again and almost immediately, a full bucket of water rained on my body drenching me all over, from my head down to my toes. I was petrified! I stood there, terribly soaked entirely as I shared glances with Deborah's anger-vested eyes.

“Leave this compound! Are you deaf?” She screamed at the top of her voice and flung the bucket in her hand straight at me. It missed its aim and landed on the concrete ground instead as it cracked on both sides.

“Guy let's leave here o! I don't want any trouble as I am.” Fatai held my hand and dragged me with him. I hesitated at first but Timi pushed me from behind.

With one last straight glance at Deborah as we exited the compound, a drop of tear escaped my eye.

This wasnʼt the Deborah I knew.

This wasnʼt the same Deborah I loved!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 13

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Wednesday, which happened to be the following day, was like hell for me. I was completely messed up to the extent of having a sleepless night all through, and during the day I refused to attend lectures and remained indoors instead, soaking myself with bottles of alcoholic drinks non-stop. I ended up falling sick by the end of the day.

Thursday came and it was most likely the worst type of a hell on earth feeling than the torture I had managed to pass through on Wednesday. I soaked myself with even more bottles of hard liquor. I was restless. I couldn't stop thinking about her — about the last unlikely incident that had transpired between us, regardless of how hard my roommates, particularly Timi and Fatai had persuaded me to cheer up often times — but I honestly could not.

I missed her terribly. I could pretend and put up a cheerful facade in front of my roommates, but my inner heart was dying in a slow but steady process each time her thoughts surfaced in my head.

On this fateful Thursday I was indoor, alone, drinking myself to stupor when Timi returned from lectures accompanied by Fatai and Divine and they caught me red-handed in the act.

“I thought we agreed on this issue, Neche. Why do you keep repeating it over and over again!” Divine wasted no time to snatch the bottles of alcohol from me and put them aside, annoyed. Timi was frowning and Fatai's facial expression was unreadable.

“What do you want me to do?” I hiccupped, partially intoxicated. “I have tried enough.”

“Do you want to kill yourself?” Divine questioned back. “I know itʼs been hard and I know you've tried but all she needs is some time. You need to give her some time to think things through. With time, I believe everything would be alright, I promise.”

“For how long Divine, for how long?” I felt my voice cracking, almost into a subtle whisper.

“Time would tell soon. You have to be strong.” She encouraged me.

“Besides,” Timi chipped in, “we have a surprise for you.”

I averted my gaze at him, “a surprise?”

“Close your eyes!” Divine smiled at me, and before I could question her statement, her hands found their way to my eyes, blindfolding me.

“What's happening?” I was puzzled by their gestures and sudden behavior. I heard the door open and then lady-like footsteps walked in, after which the door closed back again.

“Open his eyes!” Timi said to Divine.

Unfolding her hands from my eyes, the first sight my gaze fell upon was the perfect stature of a feminine figure standing next to me, smiling sadly. She looked more pale and thinner than the last time I saw her, regardless of how well dressed she appeared in a yellow mini gown that suited her skin color. She looked darker than usual, and her eyelines seemed dimmer too.

She was staring back at me, still wearing a sad, unhappy smile. I was lost for words seeing her standing right before my eyes, after what had transpired between us.

“Let us give them some space.” Timi announced and without hesitating, Divine and Fatai followed him out of the room. We were left alone — just the two of us, staring intently at each other, utterly lost for words.

“Deborah...” I muttered her name, almost in a whisper.

“Neche...” She muttered in a whisper-like manner too, never taking her eyes away from mine.

“Iʼve missed you.” I stated genuinely, staring avidly at her. Rather than saying anything in response, Deborah simply walked towards the bed I was sitting on and sat next to me, looking away.

“Neche I have wronged you beyond measures, I don't even know where to begin,” She fiddled with her fingers nervously as she spoke. “I feel very guilty for not believing you. I shouldʼve trusted you all along. Iʼm very sorry.”

Her words sounded truthful and genuine, like they were from the innermost depth of her heart. I knew she felt guilt plastered all over her conscience and she was truly sorry, so I felt compelled to comfort her.

“It is okay,” I assured her, holding onto her hand. “I forgive you.”

“Are you serious?”

“More than serious!”

She smiled and pulled me into a tight hug instantly. I could hear her sniffing as we hugged tightly. I pulled out of the hug and wiped her face with my thumb.

“Stop crying please. Itʼs okay, alright?”

She nodded in response, wiping her face as well.

“Do you really forgive me?”

I nodded affirmatively. She smiled and squeezed my hand tightly with an avid gaze on my eyes, and lips.

“Can I kiss you?”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 14

(By Sam Freddy.)

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“Can I kiss you?”

Those words reverberated through my ears and sent shivers down my spine, literally. I could sense the passion in her voice and the immense desire in her eyes.

“Can I?” Deborah repeated, tilting her face closer to mine. I tilted my face close to hers and closed the gap between us, barely inches apart.

Unluckily for us, that was when the door banged open and Hakeem barged in to ruin the whole moment. Deborah shifted away from me and adjusted herself properly.

“Ha!!” Hakeem exclaimed with shock and utmost surprise. “I shouldʼve knocked. Ejor ėma binu o!” He pleaded in his native dialect, which means, “Please donʼt be offended.”

“No, itʼs okay,” Deborah spoke up. “I was just about leaving now.”

She stood to her feet and picked up her purse from the bed, then turned to face me.

“Neche, can you see me off?”

“Sure.”

I followed after her and as I was about exiting the room, Hakeem patted me from behind and whispered into my ear: “I saw what you both were doing though. I hope sey you hold protection?”

“You dey craze!” I laughed and closed the door behind me. Deborah placed her arm across my shoulder as we continued walking.

“So I didnʼt kiss you.” She looked up at me, smiling. I wasn't sure what to say so she continued talking.

“Iʼll be bored and alone when I get home soon. I donʼt want to feel too lonely.”

“What about your aunt?”

“Sheʼs a business woman, and my niece has gone to school. I wish you could come over though.”

“For real?” I looked at her, surprised.

“Yeah.” She affirmed, smiling sheepishly. “Iʼd like to cook something for you to ease my guilt a bit, and you don't have a choice. You must come.”

“Are you sure it's okay?”

“Iʼm sure.”

We soon got to the junction outside of the hostel's gate where we then chartered a taxi heading out of campus. In less than 15 minutes, we arrived at the estate where Deborah's aunt's apartment was situated, and we then walked the remaining distance to the place.

On getting into the apartment, the first thing that hit our bodies was a freezing atmosphere as cold as snow. It was literally freezing cold.

“Oh my God!” Deborah panicked frantically towards a certain remote control on the table. “I forgot to switch off the A.C!”

She clicked on the remote and opened the curtains of the windows, and then the temperature gradually returned to normal. She then slumped on the couch behind her and sighed exasperatedly, and I was forced to laugh out loudly.

“Whatʼs funny?” Deborah faced me.

“Your face.”

“Pardon?”

“Your face.” I repeated.

“My face?”

“You should have seen your face while you were panicking. Your face was very funny.” I burst into laughter again. Deborah threw a pillow at me but I dodged it and caught it mid-air. I flung it back and like a well aimed bullet, it landed directly at her face. She screamed loudly.

“Neche I would kill you. I swear!”

I ignored her playful threat and simply laughed as I joined her on the couch where she was sitting. She punched my arm the moment I settled next to her.

“You are very wicked.”

“You started it first.”

“And so? You don't even know how to treat a lady. You are not romantic at all.”

I simply laughed at her words.

“You are laughing at me?” She retorted with a frown. “In fact, for that pillow you threw at me, let me give you my punishment now.”

“And what could that be, your royal highness?” I teased her cleverly.

“I want you to carry me on your back from here to my room.”

Before I could utter any word, Deborah dragged me up to my feet as she stood on the couch and jumped on my back. She pinched my ears repeatedly as she directed me towards her room.

I hadn't seen this playful side of Deborah before and it was rare. I was excited to see her happy and joyful regardless of her tragic health condition. It was exciting to see her merry and full of life — and it was even much more heartwarming to know that she felt that way just because of me.

When we eventually got to the room, Deborah got off from my back with a cheerful smile. She looked very happy and beautiful, too.

“I want to change my clothes, so . . .”

“So?” I urged her on.

“So if you don't mind, do excuse me.”

“Okay,” I agreed and turned to leave.

“Before you go, come and help me with this,” she turned her back at me as she faced a mirror and pointed at the zip behind her gown. I approached her and for some reason I felt my palms becoming sweaty and I became very nervous.

She was watching me from the mirror and I stared back at her as I pulled the zip down, slowly and gently. My gaze averted to her bare skin showing from the zipper, revealing her brassiere. Her skin was perfectly toned and fair, and my eyes averted to the top of her cleavage that showed visibly through the bra.

“What are you looking at?”

That statement immediately caught me off-guard. She turned and faced my direction properly. I was unable to talk.

“I asked a question, young man.” She repeated, advancing closer to me. We were barely inches apart. I could feel the heat of the tension at the close rate of proximity we shared. My heart was beating twice faster than normal. Our eyes were intertwined deeply into each other's stares as we locked gazes.

The next thing I knew, I found my hands fondling and caressing her face obliviously. Our lips merged together in a slow, French-like kiss motion. It soon increased pace as the passion ignited into a much more heated kiss.

I carried her in the process and dropped her gently on the bed while the passion ignited intensely. I took off my shirt and flung it away, and I helped Deborah take off her gown, leaving her clad only in a bum-short and a bra.

She wrapped her hands and legs around me as I caressed her bosoms, moaning softly in-between kisses. I slowly unhooked her bra and threw it too, after which I expertly took off my jean at the same time.

“Do you want us to do this?” I asked, in a bid to confirm her consent.

Deborah nodded in approval.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.” She kissed my cheek in response. “I want to do it with you. It is you that I love and my heart belongs to you. But please be gentle with me, Iʼm a virgin.”

“I promise you I'll be as gentle as a dove.” I assured her wholeheartedly, and she kissed me intensely with a go ahead.

In about 15 minutes time, the deed was done. We made pure love till the point that we lay exhausted on the bed. The sheet was stained with sweat, bodily fluids and blood.

We cleaned up the mess after resting properly for a while, had a shower together, dressed back into our clothes and changed the sheets.

Deborah's niece soon returned from school and we were fortunate enough that she didn't intrude during our love making moment. It was already late in the afternoon, almost getting to the evening period. Deborah accompanied me out of the compound to the junction. She invited me for a church programme during our discussion along the way, which was scheduled to be a night vigil, and I promised her Iʼd attend unfailingly.

I soon returned to campus and got back to my hostel to finish up some important assignments. In the process of doing this, two hours passed by.

I eventually rounded up my work and intended to prepare for Deborah's church programme when I received a text from an unknown number stating:

“If u know what is best for u, you better rush down to the campus field now.”

I read the text message again and tried dialling the number it came from, but it reported switched off. 

At that same moment, the door banged open and Hakeem rushed inside, accompanied by Timi and Fatai.

“Chineche are you still here!?” Hakeem shouted the moment he entered.

“Guys wetin happen? What's the matter?” I became frightened and alarmed.

“So you haven't heard?” Fatai shouted back.

“Is there a problem? You guys should talk nah. Youʼre scaring me o!”

“Na Deborah o! Na Deborah ooo!!!” Hakeem raised his hands above his head as he ran out of the room immediately.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 15

(By Sam Freddy.)

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A large crowd had gathered in the campus field making noise from all angles. They were gathered in a circle, surrounding someone's figure that I couldn't see. I pushed through the crowd and managed to make my way through, only to see the least of all people I expected at the scene.

Deborah — lying on the ground in a pool of her own blood stained all over her skirt, breathing unconsciously. There were two ladies bending beside her which was her friend Divine and my course mate, Annabel.

I rushed over to the scene and bent on my knees, close to Deborah's half conscious body.

“Debbie! Debbie!!” I patted her hand repeatedly, but she remained mute.

“What happened?” I looked up at Divine, who was now in tears.

“She was raped.”

“Raped?” I repeated, utterly shocked. “By who? How come? When? Where?”

“I don't know. I honestly don't know!” Divineʼs tears flowed even much more.

“Iʼll suggest we take her to the school clinic on time before she loses more blood. Sheʼs terribly bleeding.” Annabel suggested as she stood to her feet. I stood to my feet too as well as Divine did. Timi and Fatai flagged down a taxi for us, while Hakeem helped us to carry Deborah's body into the taxi. It was a four sitter passengers vehicle which could only contain I, Deborah, Annabel and Divine, so Timi, Fatai and Hakeem boarded another taxi that followed behind us.

Within some minutes, we arrived at the school clinic and carried Deborah inside. Some nurses aided us with a stretcher, which was used to convey her into a ward room. We were asked to remain at the hallway while the doctor and nurses attended to her. 

After some minutes, a nurse returned and called on Divine and I to the ward room. When we got there, I noticed that Deborah's unconscious body had been placed on medical drip and her forehead was bandaged.

“Who is closer to this lady between you two?” The doctor asked.

“We are both her close friends.” Divine replied her, holding back tears.

“Have her parents been informed?”

“Yes, Iʼve informed her dad. He's on his way here.”

“Hmm!” The doctor sighed. “This lady lost a lot of blood today. She needs to undergo blood transfusion within the next 24 hours or else...”

“Or else?” Divine urged her on.

“Or else, the outcome might be disastrous.” She finalized.

“I would do it, doctor.” I chipped in quickly. “I would donate for her!”

“Can you handle it?” The doctor scrutinized me from head to toes within a second. “I am talking about one full pint of blood here.”

“I said I'll do it, doctor.”

“Okay.” The doctor agreed and called on a nurse nearby. I was tested thoroughly before anything else. Thereafter, I was asked to seat on a chair close to Deborah's bed, and then the transfusion commenced.

Some moments later, after I was done with the blood transfusion, my roommates and Annabel came into the ward to check up on us. They shared their sympathies with me and stayed in the ward room for a while until they announced about their departure.

Divine and I remained the only ones left with Deborah in the ward. I sat on a chair close to the sick bed, while Divine sat on the bed, next to Deborah.

All of a sudden, the ward room's door opened up and an elderly man dressed in a native attire locally called Agbada rushed inside, accompanied by an elderly lady behind him. The doctor and some nurses followed suit behind them as well.

The elderly man rushed to the bed, along with the elderly woman.

“Doctor, what happened to my daughter?” his baritone voice fumed with rage.

“Sir, please calm down a bit.” The doctor interceded with him. When she noticed heʼd relaxed normally, she continued speaking. “Sir, this lady here was involved in a tragic rape incident this evening. She was brought in here by her colleagues, but by the time they arrived she had lost a lot of blood, so a blood transfusion procedure had to be taken. Luckily for her, this young man here volunteered to donate on her behalf.” The doctor finalized her explanation, and then she pointed at me.

The elderly man turned to face me and looked at me for a while, with tears welling up in his eyes.

“Thank you very much, my son.”

“It's my pleasure, sir.”

“God bless you abundantly.” He spoke with sadness laced in his tone. 

“Whoever did something as evil as this to my daughter, it shall never be well with them. It shall never work well for them. I curse whosoever it is with my aging grey hair and with the pains of a father that their life shall never know peace, they shall be miserable all their days on earth!”

“Amen!” Divine and the elderly woman chorused together.

“Sir, please take it easy,” the doctor tried comforting him. “Iʼm sure she will be fine.”

The elderly man eased up and managed to relax himself, and then the doctor turned to the elderly lady beside him.

“Are you her mother ma?”

“I am her step-mother.” The lady replied.

“In that case, sir and ma, I would like to have a word with the both of you in my office.” She announced. “Including you two,” she pointed at me and Divine.

Instantly, we all followed after the doctor as she led the way to her office. When we got there, we were offered seats to sit on, but Divine and I insisted on standing, while Deborah's parents took their seats.

The doctor commenced. “I have good news and bad news.”

“What is the good news, doctor?” Deborah's father asked anxiously.

“The good news is that your daughter is alive, and she will be well with time.”

“And the bad news?” Deborah's step-mother inquired.

“The bad news is; she is in a serious state of coma as we speak, and...” The doctor paused.

“And what, doctor?”

“And there is a possibility that she might not be able to walk . . . temporarily.”

“Jesus!!” Deborah's step-mother exclaimed out of shock.

“What do you mean, doctor?” Deborah's father asked, fuming.

“What I mean to say is that, according to the results of our tests, it seems to appear that whoever was involved in the rape of your daughter had manhandled her brutally and forcefully. She appears to have been hit by a vehicle, probably a car or something else that fractured her bones in the process. She would heal with time, hopefully, but I cannot guarantee that sheʼd walk properly for a while.” The doctor concluded her explanation.

To say we were more than shocked was a complete understatement after listening to the doctor's words. I in particular, could not believe my ears. I was left in utter shock. Deborah's father broke down in tears. The elderly woman and the doctor consoled him.

After a while, we returned back to the ward room. The doctor prescribed some drugs for me and urged me to take them when I return home, but I insisted on staying. I couldn't leave Deborah in that condition.

“My son, you have done more than enough today. I appreciate your good deeds and your concern over my daughter but you need to rest. Remember you donated blood and you need adequate rest. Please, on my behalf, do return home.” Deborah's father pleaded with me. I hesitated to leave, but he urged me further. I ended up left with no choice than to budge to his demands.

Deborah's father's driver drove Divine and I back to our various hostels. When I returned home, after narrating the whole ordeal to my roommates, they all sympathised with me with words of encouragement. I managed to have my meal coupled with the drugs the doctor had prescribed for me, and just as I intended to go to bed, a text message notification signalled on my phone from an unknown number.

With curiosity, I clicked on the WhatsApp message which reads thus:

“If you think she is innocent, ask her where she went to tonight when she recovers. I know she told u she went to church, right?

Well, look at these pictures and play this video, and you will find out the truth.”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 16

(By Sam Freddy.)

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I couldn't believe what I saw.

I couldn't believe the gravity of what I saw from the video. I saw pictures of Deborah stark naked on a bed, surrounded by two guys. The video showed her screaming and moaning with pleasure as they had sex with her altogether.

I was dumbfounded — shattered — shocked and completely broken from my body to my soul. With a feeble, shattered heart, I continued reading the text messages:

“As you can see from the video, those two guys having sex with her are her lovers. They beat her up after realizing she had an outside affair with you and then dumped her body around the campus field. Did you think she was raped? You better think twice. She lied to you.”

I read the whole text in utter shock and in disbelief. I checked the profile of the sender, but it appeared blank with no name. I also tried calling the number yet it proved futile.

Thoughts upon thoughts began running through my head. Could this be true? Could it be real? Even when I tried denying the fact that it was probably a fake report, the images shown in the pictures and the video itself convinced me about its certainty. It wasn't fake in any way, neither was it false report.

I cried bitterly. I was heartbroken. 

Deep within me, I cursed the day I met and laid eyes on Deborah. I regretted ever knowing her. I despised her with so much hate and pain right from that very moment. She was someone I trusted. She was someone I thought I could trust wholeheartedly — but little did I know she was a wolf in sheep's clothing.

Right there and then I deleted her contact, her pictures and erased every single memory I had with her from my phone and my life entirely!

The following Thursday morning, as early as 5:30 I was woken by my roommates. They had all prepared for their various classes already and had asked me to freshen up too, so as to accompany them to the schoolʼs main clinic where Deborah was admitted so that they could check up on her before attending to their classes, but I fabricated an excuse in order not to follow them there. In as much as I despised Deborah, I still couldn't compel myself to show them the photos and video of what she did, so I simply had to lie to my friends and gave them an excuse that we would visit her later in the day, after they had returned from lectures.

I spent half of the day indoors, alone, thinking about everything thatʼd happened in my life in recent times. I realized how Deborah had become a huge part of my life, irrespective of her health issues which barely even bothered me. I realized how much care and love I had for her. Yet, it was painful to know that she took my love for granted.

During these thoughts, there was a loud knock that banged at the door.

“Yes, who is there?”

There was no response, but another knock followed instead, more harder.

“I said who is there?”

Yet again, no reply came forth, except for a more louder bang on the door.

“Are you mad?” I walked over to the door with anger. “Is this your father's door?”

The moment I opened the door, I was beyond shocked to see three police officers dressed in uniforms, alongside Divine.

“Jesus! Good afternoon sirs!” I exclaimed in shock, plainly frightened.

“Good afternoon.” One of the police officers replied, frowning. “Is this the hostel of Chinecherem Stanley?”

“Yes sir, I'm the one sir.”

“In that case, your attention is needed at our station with immediate effect.”

“Is there a problem, sir?” I asked, feeling my heartbeat racing fast.

“No, not at all. We just need to ask you a few questions as a witness to the scene concerning the lady who was raped, and then take your statement to further our investigations, that is all.”

“Okay, sir. Spare me a minute please.” I hurried back inside, grabbed my phone and locked the door properly before following them.

In less than 20 minutes, we arrived at the police station close to the campus. I was surprised to meet Deborah's father there, as well as her step-mother. I shared pleasantries with them and Deborah's father assured me not to be afraid concerning the police officers' investigations. Thereafter, I was called to the questioning room where two officers sat, waiting for me.

“Sit down.” An officer instructed, and I obeyed.

“What is your name again?” The other officer asked, jotting something on a notebook.

“Chinecherem, sir.”

“Your full name.”

“Chinecherem Stanley, sir.”

He jotted on the notebook and nodded at the other officer to proceed.

“So Chinecherem, I believe you are the one who donated blood for the lady in question, am I correct?”

“Yes sir, I am.” I affirmed with a nod.

“Who exactly are you to her?”

“I'm her friend, sir.”

“Just a friend or there's something more?”

“I can't say, sir. It's complicated.” I answered with ease, denying to accept any mutual connection with Deborah, particularly after what I had seen her display from the pictures and the video.

“Is she in your department?” The other officer cut in.

“No sir, she isn't. We are both in different faculties.” I responded.

“Where were you yesterday?” The officer pushed on.

“I was at home sir, throughout the day.” I uttered the words before I could even stop myself. The moment I said that, the officers shared glances at each other abruptly.

“You mean you were indoors all through the day?” The officer asked again with a fixed look on me, while his colleague jotted something on a notebook.

“I was indoors, sir.” I lied again, trying to cover up my statement. The officers shared knowing looks at themselves and smiled, before facing me again.

“Well, that's funny because according to our investigations, this lady's friend told us that you were with her almost throughout yesterday at her aunt's place just before the incident.” The other officer with the notebook spoke with his ardent focus on me. “So how come you still tell us you were indoors?”

“Sir, to be honest I only accompanied her there once after she visited me yesterday. I didn't stay too long, sir.” I lied again. I felt my heartbeat thumping heavily in my chest with fear and fright.

“So why didn't you come back to check up on her today since yesterday?”

I didn't know what to say in response. I was lost for words. I stammered and stuttered.

“Young man, you are a suspect.”

“You raped her!” The other officer added.

“God forbid!” I exclaimed in utmost shock. “I didn't rape her, sir. I can swear it.”

“Shut up.” The officer raised his voice at me. “You raped her and dumped her body by the campus field, then you later went back again to donate blood for her at the clinic so no one would suspect you, isn't it?”

“That's not true, sir. That's a lie. I'm innocent sir!” I defended myself.

“Come on, keep shut there, idiot.” The other officer shouted back at me. “If you are truly innocent, why then did you lie just now? Why did you deny being with her yesterday?”

“I am innocent sir, believe me. I'm not lying, sir.”

Before I knew it, the police officer stretched his hand from the other side of the table and slapped me across my face, after which he stood up and crossed over to where I sat, frowning sternly.

“Are you mad?” He raised his voice at me, loudly. “Do you think we are joking here? Does it look like I'm playing with you?”

“But sir I am innocent, I swear on my life sir. I didn't rape her sir, please believe me!” I pleaded with my finger touching the tip of my tongue and raised it up as a genuine gesture. 

Irrespective of my sincere pleas, the police officer still disregarded me with another slap on my face again. Thereafter, he instructed his colleague to watch over me while he walked out of the questioning room.

Within a few minutes, the officer returned again with Deborah's father accompanying him. From the look on the elderly man's face, I could clearly sense that he wasn't in a good mood. He seemed to be in a foul countenance as he watched me keenly with a frown in place.

“Is it true, my son?” his voice was low and mild as he stared at me directly in the eyes. I was numb and lost; unable to heave a response or utter a word.

“Tell me it isn't true.” Deborah's father's frown increased thickly. He looked very angry.

“Sir, it's not true. I swear with my life sir, I am innocent. Please sir I'm telling the truth!” I pleaded with the elderly man, with tears already forming in my eyes.

“Why did you lie?” The police officer interrupted me. Before I could speak, he turned to Deborah's father and continued. “I am telling you sir, this young man is the main primary suspect we have. I strongly believe he was behind your daughter's rape sir. It's so glaring sir, can't you see it?”

The elderly man shook his head irritably and spoke. “I trusted him. I thought he was a good person after what he did for my daughter, but little did I know he was a snake in disguise. Officers, please make sure he faces the law. Ensure he pays dearly for his evil crime! I'll personally make sure you rot in jail. Bastard!”

Deborah's father walked out without saying another word. I tried begging and pleading but it all fell on deaf ears. The officers apprehended and manhandled me roughly to a small, vacant jail with slaps and beatings along the way. I was locked inside after they had seized my clothes and left me clad only in my underwear.

Who would help me? Who would come to my aid? How do I explain myself? How do I clear my name for a mistaken identity when Deborah, who is the only one who could help me testify to this case, is presently in a tragic state of coma?

All these thoughts went on and on in my aching head, leaving me hopeless and alone.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 17

(By Sam Freddy.)

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For the first time in my life, I was charged and wrongly accused as a suspect of a crime I knew absolutely nothing about, which led me into spending a night behind bars. 

Spending a single night in jail was beyond terrible, let alone spending two more days inside it's horrible, unpleasant premises. I was beaten mercilessly, tortured, starved and severely manhandled within those two days in jail. I was forced to confess to the crime by the police officers during the course of their investigations and torture, but I still managed to retain my stand as an innocent, wrongly accused victim.

During those two days in jail, my roommates occasionally visited me with food and medicine, accompanied by Annabel my course mate. Annabel in particular, despite her uncanny and crude nature which made me despise her from the onset, had happened to be the same person who visited me more often with food, medicine and unconditional care. She devoted most of her time with me whenever she came visiting, and she shared her sympathy with me and encouraged me with hopeful words often times.

All through my trials, Annabel and my friends were the only circle of people that stood undauntedly by me. Divine, Deborah's friend, hardly visited me in prison. She had the mindset that I was involved in her friend's rape and she avoided me at all costs and spent more time in the clinic instead, where Deborah's unconscious body still lay in a state of coma.

Deborah's father had threatened to take the case to court in due time, if his daughter still hadn't recovered from her state of coma by the third day. I had pleaded with my friends not to involve my parents into the case for a while, until we could ascertain Deborah's state of health till the third day.

However, on Sunday which happened to be the third and the final day before the case would get filed in a court, I was awoken by repeated taps on my forehead and hard kicks on my back on the floor on which I lay in the prison's cell block. I opened my eyes and scampered to my feet hastily, after realizing that it was a police officer that stood next to me with a baton in his hands and a thick frown on his face.

“Didé daada jare.” He said in his native dialect, which means, “Stand properly to your feet.”

I obeyed him and retained my composure.

“You no sabi greet?” He raised his voice and raised the baton he held, very high.

“Good morning, officer.” I said with a shaky voice, almost trembling.

He looked at me with a frown, hissed and dropped the baton back to its normal level.

“You have a visitor here to see you, so just follow me quietly before I break your head with this baton.” He ordered harshly, pointing the baton at me. I simply nodded in response. Thereafter, the officer led the way while I followed behind him slowly and quietly. When we got to a certain point, he stopped and opened a door and led me inside.

"Just five minutes only. Period!” The officer instructed and went back outside, shutting the door behind him.

To my utmost surprise, Annabel was the one seated in the partially blank room, alone. She usually came visiting with my friends but surprisingly, she appeared to be alone this time.

“Neche!” She stood to her feet and ran towards me, and then hugged me tightly as she sobbed in my arms. She pulled from the hug and scrutinized me thoroughly from head to toes within a second, sobbing even more.

“I can't believe this is happening to you.” She said amidst tears. “I wish I could do something more to help you. You don't deserve this!”

“Annabel, it's okay.” I assured her with a forced smile. “I am fine. It's all right. I believe this is God's will for me.”

“Don't say that.” She rebuked me instantly. “God is a merciful God. He can never be this cruel to an innocent person like you.”

I managed to smile at her words. I placed my thumb on her cheek and wiped her tears.

“Stop crying, please.”

She sniffed deeply, wiped her face with her palms, and then managed to maintain her composure with a weak smile.

“Should we sit?” I asked her. She only nodded in response. Then we went toward the wooden bench at the edge of the blank room and had our seats.

“I have missed you, Neche,” Annabel stated with a glint of sadness laced on her voice, “but I haven't lost hope yet. I have faith that within this week, a miracle will come by in your favour. I believe that God would intervene in this case and prove your innocence, don't lose hope.”

I forced a smile and simply nodded, not knowing what to say. In another logical sense, I came to realize the meaning of an adage that once termed the world as a basket — a small, little world. Truly, in this life the least and the littlest of all things we expect are what turn out as a huge impact in our lives. It was ironic to see that Annabel, who I once despised with no ounce of likeness for, still happens to be the same person encouraging and standing by me all through my trials.

“Annabel, I am confused.” I said, staring at her eyes.

“Confused?” She repeated after me. “Confused, about what?”

“Deborah's father threatened to file the case to court today if she still doesn't recover from her coma.”

“Are you serious?”

I nodded. “I'm serious, and he sounded vividly serious about it, too. He wasn't making empty threats. I am scared of the outcome if Deborah still doesn't recover today. I could be jailed and given a verdict for a long jail term in court.”

Annabel listened with avid concern and keen interest, looking plainly lost in thoughts. She looked oddly bothered. I felt she had something to say, so I pushed on.

“Is anything the matter? Speak to me.”

She hesitated before speaking. “I am speechless. I feel there's more to this case than meets the eyes. Neche, is there something you are not telling me?”

Annabel's question caught me off-guard. She was a sensitive and an observant person. I felt no further need to prolong or hide my secret anymore. I had to let her know.

“Annabel, can I confide in you?”

“Yes, you can.” She affirmed. “You have my word.”

I heaved a sigh, took a deep breath and composed myself properly, before narrating the whole ordeal to her. I told her about the obscene sex-tape and Deborah's nude pictures which I had on my phone as a prove of my innocence. I told her how I had been contemplating on handing them over to the police as my evidence, but at the same time, I still wasn't willing to risk Deborah's reputation and dignity along the line. I wasn't willing to embarrass her, despite the gravity of what she did, and what I had been through too, in respect of what we once shared.

After narrating the whole ordeal to her, Annabel's facial expression turned to a blank, indefinable look with an agitated countenance instantly.

“I can't believe this!” She stated with a perturbed stare at me. “Are you in your right senses? You mean you have such evidence like this with you that can set you free and clear your name yet you're still here?”

Annabel shook her head in disbelief. “I'm speechless. I am lost for words! I don't even know what to say to you. Have you lost your mind?”

“Annabel, you're getting it wrong. You have to understand that I am only protecting her dignity.”

“Under your own detriment?” She retorted back. “I don't care whatever it is, all I know is that you are leaving this cell today. I must inform the police about this!”

I was about to say something in response when the door banged open and the same police warden who had earlier brought me in walked inside.

“Your time is up.” He announced as he approached me. Just as he cuffed my hands and prepared to walk me back to my cell block, Annabel stood up and spoke.

“Officer, I have something to tell you, sir.”

“Yes, what is it, young lady?” He shifted his attention to her.

Just at that same moment, the door opened up again and my heart literally skipped two beats, seeing Deborah's father dressed in his usual native attire, walking undauntedly into the visiting room with a hard frown on his face. He had undoubtedly returned to file a case against me in court just as he had threatened, but to our biggest surprise, who we saw behind him came as a shock to us all.

She was seated on a wheelchair, pale and numb, with a bandage wrapped across her legs, her hands and her forehead.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 18

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Like a blooming sunshine upon a seemingly long night, the only living witness that could truly testify the real truth about my case — which was none other than Deborah, who had been in a serious state of coma for almost three days, had now miraculously surfaced at the last brink and the last point of time; after I had almost lost all ounce of hope.

I felt repelled by her appearance, especially seeing her on a wheelchair wrapped up in bandages on almost all parts of her body, while her step-mother pushed her gently from behind into the visiting room, accompanied by another police officer behind them.

There was silence in the room. Thick silence, cascading in the atmosphere as tension increased in us. Annabel, Deborah, Deborah's father, her step-mother, the two police officers and I exchanged unknowing stares altogether in silence.

The elderly man, Deborah's father, eventually broke the silence. 

“May we all have our seats, please,” He gestured with his bold baritone voice, pointing at the two wooden benches behind where I and Annabel stood.

Reluctantly, I heeded the elderly man's request and joined them as they all took their various seats on the benches. I noticed Deborah's quietness. I observed how she kept staring at me without saying a word, probably surprised at my sudden and unexpected change of attitude towards her. She obviously wasn't aware that her secret had been cast out in the open and that I knew all about her outrageous act. I felt she had something to say but could not. I wondered if she could even still speak.

“I feel a huge burden on my heart as I speak to you all.” The elderly man addressed formally as he began. “I feel very guilty for a painful cause and reason. I don't even know where to begin, for my heart bears great burden.”

All the while he spoke, his eyes and focus remained fixated on me all through. After heaving a deep sigh, he continued speaking.

“My son, I seek for your forgiveness today, for I have wronged you beyond measures. I beseech you to please find a place in your heart to forgive me and my family as a whole.”

To say I was confused would be a mere understatement. I was plainly lost and dumbfounded. I had no idea or clue of what he was talking about.

“Permit me to ask, sir, but what is this all about? We all seem to be lost here, as you can see.” One of the police officers intervened eventually.

“Officer,” Deborah's father addressed him in a low tone, “this young man you see here is innocent of all he has been accused of.”

Those words came as a beam of hope for me. I smiled slightly. Annabel and I glanced at each other out of shock and plain excitement.

“But sir, how can you prove that?” The officer pushed on adamantly.

“Officer, he didn't rape my daughter. She was raped, certainly, but not by his doing.” The elderly man explained to our hearing. “She miraculously recovered from her state of coma today, during the early hours before sunlight, and he was the first thing she mentioned upon her revival. She cried and insisted that she needed to see him one on one after we explained everything to her, and that is the main reason why we brought her here.” He finalized.

The officer looked baffled. “Young lady, is this true that the accused who has been acclaimed for rape is truly innocent?” He asked, addressing Deborah.

Deborah nodded in affirmation. Thereafter, a short silence ensued again before the two police officers whispered between themselves and then stood up together.

“This is a big mess, sir.” One of them said, addressing Deborah's father. 

“With all due respect sir, we don't have valid prove yet, irrespective of the victim's claims about the suspect being innocent. He is still a suspect, in as much as your daughter was raped. What do you want us to do, sir?”

“Officer, I demand for his release.” Deborah's father stated bluntly. “He is a wrongly accused victim. He has been through a lot already, officer. He is innocent and I hereby demand for his release, immediately.”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 19

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Within an hour of rigorous paper work, signing of documents and collection of statements between I and Deborah's father, I was officially bailed out and released from prison. I was cleared of all accusations charged against me. However, the police officers still offered and granted me the permission to file a case against Deborah's family. I had every right to sue them to court if I deemed it fit to do so, but I declined the offer and insisted to overlook it instead, regardless of everything they made me pass through.

Annabel called and informed my roommates about my release the moment we were done with the procedures. Deborah's father on the other hand, had offered to take me to a hospital in order to get me treated of my wounds and bruises, but I declined his offer. He further insisted and offered me a ride back to my hostel coupled with a huge sum of money as well, but I still didn't budge to his offer despite his pleas. Iʼd made up my mind not to collect a dime from his family. I didn't want to have anything to do with his family anymore, either in this life or the next.

His daughter, Deborah, on the contrary — had not spoken a word from the onset. She had been quiet since she came. When asked a question, she only nodded in response. She barely talked or said anything at all. I began to wonder if the ghastly incident also took her ability to speak, perhaps. 

Has she lost her voice? I wondered.

However, within a few more minutes, I eventually left the police station. Annabel accompanied me to the school's clinic where I received proper treatment and medications. 

Surprisingly, she paid the bill for my treatment on her own accord. She settled the bill for my medications as well, and we also had to stop by a nearby bank where Annabel withdrew some money from and bought fruits and other necessary beverage along the way.

“I'll be back soon. I promise.” She assured me with a warm smile. I had asked her why she wanted to leave. We had just dropped from a taxi, precisely at the front gate of the male hostel.

I heaved an exasperated sigh, before speaking. “I don't really know how to thank you enough, Annabel. I am more than grateful for everything you've done for me. I have nothing but a heart of gratitude to give to you. Thank you very much, for everything.”

She smiled shyly. “You are most welcome, dear. You don't have to thank me, what are we friends for?” She pulled me into a slight hug and added. “Moreover, I still have to return to my hostel to prepare something nice for you. I'll come back soon. I promise.”

“You promise?”

“I promise.” She affirmed with a smile and pulled me into a warm hug once more. Thereafter, we both said our goodbyes before she turned around and headed back to her hostel.

On getting to my hostel, friends and neighbours around readily welcomed me with surprise and sympathies. It was funny how the news of my arrest had suddenly gone viral. I greeted each and every one of them as I walked into my room.

Out of shock and surprise, my roommates; Timi, Hakeem and Fatai all jumped to their feet from their various positions and rushed towards me. They embraced me warmly altogether. Afterwards, we all sat down together and I narrated the whole ordeal about my experience to them.

Later on, I had a thorough bath since I hadn't bathed in days, and then I had a proper meal and took my prescribed medications as well. In the middle of my leisure time, a faint knock came from the door. Timi responded to the door and opened it. The moment he did, a tall man dressed in suit walked inside, followed by a lady behind him, who was pushing another lady on a wheelchair ahead of her. I recognized the man in suit to be Deborah's family driver. Divine was the lady aiding Deborah on the wheelchair.

My change of mood was instantaneous on sighting them.

“What are you looking for?” I spared no time to ask as I stood up to my feet, fuming in great rage.

“Sir,” the man in suit addressed me formally, “please, do calm down. We come in peace.”

“Are you okay?” I disregarded his polite manner of approach, due to my aggravating anger. “Are you nuts?”

Timi and Hakeem were pulling on my cloth from behind, giving me signs and gestures to ease up and calm down but I ignored them.

Divine chipped in. “Mr. Fabian, please excuse us. I'll handle this on my own.”

Hesitantly, the tall man nodded and walked out of the room as Divine requested. She averted her eyes from Deborahʼs face and then transferred her ardent focus back at me again.

“Chinecherem, why are you doing this?” She began. “I understand how you must feel after being falsely accused for a mistaken identity and after everything you passed through. Yes, it is painful, I know. I know how you feel, but is that enough reason to shut her out of your life? An innocent lady who was raped, landed in a coma and evidently had no hand in your arrest. Is this how you want to treat her? She doesn't deserve this, for God's sake.”

“She deserves worse.” I retorted angrily. “She is a cheap slut and a pathetic hoe. A shameless good for nothing prostitute. I curse and regret the day we crossed paths!”

Timi pulled my arm from behind forcefully. I dragged it away from his grasp instantly. In the heat of that same moment, the door opened slowly and Annabel walked inside, holding two polythene bags.

Deborah's eyes had become filled with tears. She was sobbing pitifully, using her hands to cover her face.

“I want you two to leave this room, now.” I lowered my voice, trying to sound calm.

“My love, won't you at least give me a chance and hear me out, please!” Deborah pleaded in-between sobs.

“He said you should both get the hell out of here. Or are you both deaf?” Annabel intervened abruptly.

“Debbie, let's leave this place.” Divine said to Deborah who was still sobbing, while she pushed her toward the door on the wheelchair. A few steps away to the door, Divine turned back and sent me a straight, cold glare.

“You will regret this. I promise you.”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 20

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Divineʼs threat didn't make me flinch. I wasn't perturbed in the slightest bit. To me, it was just a mere, ridiculous empty threat.

The moment she wheeled Deborah ahead of her and they both left the room, I followed suit behind them and bolted the door shut.

“What was that all about?” Timi didn't hesitate to query me, despite Annabel's presence in the room.

“What did it look like?” I shot back at him, clearly annoyed.

“You didn't have to be so harsh on her like that.” Timi lowered his voice, calmly. “I don't know what transpired between you and her, but at least if for anything at all, you should have been considerate enough on her condition.”

“To hell with her condition!” I retorted angrily. I had wanted to say something more out of anger until Annabel's hands curled around my arms while she stared at me, signalling me to keep calm.

Timi didn't utter a word afterwards. He only shook his head and sat down on the carpet, facing the direction of the television. Fatai and Hakeem imitated his action as well.

Annabel pulled me gently towards the bed where we both sat down together. She patted my shoulder softly with a warm smile, still trying to calm my nerves. Afterwards, she took out two mini-sized coolers and plates from the polythene bags she had brought along. She placed a pack of orange flavored juice alongside too.

“Food is ready!” She smiled cheerfully as she dished the meal accordingly. She handed a plate to Timi but to her surprise, he rejected the meal. He got up to his feet and walked out of the room quietly.

Annabel was surprised, but nonetheless, still managed to retain her vibrant smile. She stretched the plate to Fatai instead, and his reaction was even much worse. He hissed and 'eyed' her thoroughly with a frown in place, before walking out of the room as well. Hakeem followed suit behind him too.

“What is wrong with your friends?” Annabel said in a mild, unhappy voice. She sounded sad and defeated.

“I don't care what their problem is, because they can't dictate my life for me.” I responded with plain finality. She cheered up once more and smiled again, before dishing another portion of the meal into the same plate and then she spoon fed me. I spoon fed her as well and we both laughed. 

During the course of this, we joked, laughed and chatted as time flew by fast.

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Later on, on that same evening, Annabel and I strolled out around campus together, hand-in-hand as we talked and walked along. She took me to a vast beautiful garden with a lake nearby, precisely ahead of it with people seated in various positions around the garden, all in pairs. She had blindfolded me all the while she led me there, until she eventually uncovered my eyes.

“You can open your eyes now.” Annabel whispered softly behind me as she removed her palms from my face. I noticed dim multi-colored bulbs lighting the atmosphere amidst the darkness. She pulled me gently as we both lay on the plain green grass, facing the stars.

“Is this the love garden?” I asked her, admiring the serene atmosphere. 

Annabel simply nodded in response.

“Why is it called so?” I pushed on.

“Look around you, what do you see?”

“People, of course.” I replied.

“You are wrong.” She laughed slightly. “These people are not just people, but lovers. Almost all couples visit this place all the time. I am surprised that you aren't familiar with this place of all places in campus.”

“With all honesty, the truth is that I rarely go out, Annie. I am more of an introvert and a nerd, so you don't often see me out of my cave. If you hadn't brought me here today, I probably wouldn't have known that a place like this exists.”

“Thatʼs funny,” She laughed again, “but you obviously know where the school's cafeteria is, don't you?”

“Why not, who doesn't? Of course, I do.”

Annabel laughed hysterically. 

“You are such a food monger!” She pinched my nose playfully.

“We are birds of a feather then, aren't we?” I joked and pinched her ear in return. Annabel flinched a bit and laughed.

“I haven't seen this playful side of you before, Neche.” She confessed amidst laughter. “I really like seeing you this way.”

“Is that so?” I smiled.

“Yeah.”

“Really?” I smiled more, shifting closer to her body. We were facing each other this time around, barely inches apart.

“Yes.” Annabel responded again, keeping her eyes fixated on mine.

“Are you sure?” I touched the hem of her dress, precisely around her neck region. I could feel her heartbeat racing fast with great anticipation.

In the heat of that tension-filled moment, a phone call happened to disrupt the glorious, serene flow between the both of us. I excused myself and sat up properly to answer my call. It appeared to be a video call from an unsaved number.

Hesitantly, I picked up the video call and I instantly regretted doing so.

Deborah's face appeared on the screen, lying on her bed with tears cascading down her cheeks. She averted her gaze to the ground of the garden where Annabel lay close beside me. With one last sad glance at me, the line immediately went dead. She had cut the call without saying a word.

“Who was that?” Annabel asked after I lay back on the ground beside her.

“A friend of mine.” I lied. “He called to inform me that our hostel's gate would soon be locked.”

“Oh.” Annabel pouted with a nod. “In that case, we should better get going then.” She sat up as she spoke.

“Why the rush? I am not in a hurry. Relax,” I assured her.

“Do you want to sleep outside?” Annabel laughed while pulling my hands. “Besides, it is far too late already. I suggest we sum it up and call it a day from here.”

“Youʼre probably right.” I gave up in mock surrender as I stood up to my feet. Annabel curled her hand around my arm as we walked, while I hung my arm across her shoulder.

On getting to the exit point of the love garden, Annabel gradually halted her steps and eventually ceased moving. She held my hands firmly and pressed her warm lips against mine, softly. I reciprocated the kiss as well.

I couldn't decipher what it was, but something about Annabel's eyes seemed to glint with passion after our kiss. That kiss we shared, as brief and simple as it seemed to be, could speak volumes beyond words between us.

Afterwards, we continued walking further until we arrived at the campusʼ junction where we were supposed to take a taxi to our various hostels. 

Annabel hugged me once more and kissed me, despite the fact that we were in public. Thereafter, I bade her farewell as she entered the taxi and the vehicle zoomed off. I boarded a taxi as well that was heading to an area around my hostel.

While seated in the cab, absentmindedly scrolling through my phone, I received a text message from a familiar number. Curiously, I clicked on the message which reads thus:

“I thought we had something genuine and true. I thought we found something pure and real. I believed we shared an inseparable, rare type of love between one another. I hoped and dreamed for a day when we would make a lifelong vow between each other.

But now, my hopes and dreams have been washed down the drain. I prayed earnestly for a fateful day to come when I could call you mine, and you could as well lovingly call me yours. I vowed a pact in the deepest part of my heart to stand by you always, come rain, come shine. Funny enough, on your part, it is clearly obvious that you never really loved me from the start.

I gave you my dignity — my virginity. I lost my pride in your hands, all for the sake of love. Yet, I had a minor incident that cost me my legs temporarily, and this is how you treat me?

Whichever way, God knows best. I just want you to know that I still love you, Neche, despite all the odds.

Sleep well, my dearest love!”

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 21

(By Sam Freddy.) 

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Apparently, two days had passed since the day of my miraculous release from prison. Within those two days, my friendship with Annabel had blossomed and bloomed to a whole new level. We developed the habit of texting and calling each other frequently, and visiting each other's hostels from time to time. She was caring and considerate. She was jovial and everly gleeful.

Admittedly, it came to a point that I started to have real, genuine feelings for her. I wanted to erase the old, bitter memories of my life and start a new chapter with her from scratch. 

Undoubtedly, Deborah Etomi as I fondly called her, had made a huge impact in my life despite our separation. She was my first true love with whom I had selflessly shared and given my all to. She was my sunshine in the day, and my moonlight during the night. She was my strong pillar in whom I found comfort and solace. Yet, despite all my sacrifice of unending love for her, Deborah Etomi stabbed me in the back ruthlessly. She tore me to shreds and imprinted a scar into the innermost part of my heart and soul.

I had to move on, nevertheless.

Annabel on the contrary, had shown and displayed nothing but pure love and affection toward me. She had been there from the onset, but I was so blind and short-sighted to notice her presence. She never gave up on me, regardless of how many times I pushed her away. With Annabel, I could foresee a new chapter of my story unveiling all over again. I could forget the past memories and the hurtful stigma that Deborah had scarred on me, hopefully, with Annabelʼs support.

On this fateful Tuesday, happens to be Annabelʼs birthday. She had informed me a day before the supposed day about her birthday and how she had planned on celebrating it with her friends, especially me. She intended on throwing a big party in favour of her 20th birthday. So, expectedly, preparations had to be made and scheduled properly for the event.

I returned home late at noon after a long day of lectures in school, bearing Annabel's birthday in mind all through the day. Upon my first step into my hostelʼs dormitory, the first figure my sight gazed upon shocked me beyond measures.

She was sitting on a chair, dressed in a pink sleeveless top and a pink jean. Her hair had been cut in a low-cut style, making her look different, and prettier, too. She had crutches placed beside her on the chair where she was seated.

The moment I walked in, Timi, my roommate, stood up to his feet. Timi had no doubt brought her into our room, for he was the only one in there with her.

“Neche, my love.” Deborah said my name softly, almost in a whisper. She struggled to get on her feet to no avail, stretching her hands to her crutches. Timi leaped close to her and assisted her with her crutches while I stood there, petrified.

“Did you bring this whore into our room, Timi?” I faced him angrily. Deborahʼs face turned sour at my words. She looked dazed and baffled. 

Timi, however, took some steps towards me until he had gotten so close to me that we were only inches apart.

He then muttered in a low, calm voice. “Don't you have a heart? Don't you have human feelings? How can you be so cold to her this way, even in her condition?”

I was speechless and utterly lost for words. Timi continued speaking; “I beg you to please, for Godʼs sake, hear her out for a moment. She yearns to speak with you. Act mature. Be a man!”

With that, Timi walked past me and went out of the room, leaving I and Deborah together to ourselves. 

I glanced over at her as she did the same too, wearing a sour and unhappy facial expression. She looked undoubtedly sad. She was standing fairly upright with her crutches in both hands as we stared at each other in utter silence.

“So, what is it you want?” I broke the silence between us.

“A whore?” Deborah spoke with a mild voice. “Is that what you take me for, Neche, my love?”

“What do you want, Deborah? Time is precious to me.” I stated bluntly.

“A whore? Chinecherem, my love, you called me a whore?” Her eyes became teary as her voice quaked.

“Yes, I did. I would say it a thousand times again if I need to.” I glared at her eyes directly. “Not only are you a whore, but a shameless and worthless one at that.”

“Why?” Deborah managed to ask, despite the tears welling up in her eyes. “Why are you so cold to me all of a sudden? What have I ever done to you?”

“Oh, so you don't know, right?” I raised my voice a bit. “You think all secrets remain hidden forever, do you? You thought you were smart and clever, but little did you know that this world is like a rolling stone that rotates and gives back bad to whoever does evil. Your secret is out in the open. Quit the pretence and spare me the innocent face already, miss reverend sister.” I mocked her with finality.

“What secret? What do you mean? I am lost here.” She inquired with a confused facial expression, acting unaware of what I meant.

“Are you still pretending, Deborah?” I was getting furious. “On the night you told me you were going for a church programme, where exactly were you on that fateful night, Deborah?”

“I was on my way to church until,” She paused.

“Until what?” I urged her on, angrily.

“Until that unfateful incident that cost me my legs today occured. I was abducted by two guys on my way who drove me to an uncompleted building where they forced me to drink something from the content of a black bottle, after which they injected me on my neck. I was drugged and raped and that was all I could remember until I found myself by the campus field where they dumped my body afterwards. What makes you think I would tell a lie as costly as this?” Deborahʼs eyes had welled up with tears by the time she finalized her words.

“A pathetic liar — that is what you are. Stupid, worthless whore.” I dipped my hands into my pockets and took out my phone. With a few clicks on the screen, I played the video clip which featured Deborah and her supposed 'abductors' as she claimed.

“Can you see this?” I flashed the screen to her face. “See how you moaned with pleasure and satisfaction all through the video. Or do you want to claim you still aren't the one in this video? You pathetic liar!” I was hurting inside of me as I spoke, but my rage fuelled me with more anger and ferocity.

Deborahʼs face had turned pale and sour. The look on her features showed surprise and evident confusion.

“You know what? Get out of here, before I lose my temper and do something Iʼd live to regret.”

“Who sent you this video?” She broke down into pitiful tears. “Itʼs a fake video! I can swear on my life that it is fake!”

“Are you mad? I said leave, now!” I repeated, more angrily.

“Neche listen to me, I was blackmailed! I don't know who is behind this but please,” She was pleading amidst tears when all of a sudden, her legs became wobbly and she lost balance and fell to the ground. Deborah screamed out in pain from the impact at which her head banged on the floor.

Almost immediately, Timi rushed inside accompanied by Fabian, Deborah's family driver. I had no idea that they had been outside all along until they came rushing in. Deborahʼs head continued oozing tiny drops of blood as she screamed louder. Timi and Fabian assisted her to stand on her feet and then they led her to the bed where she sat.

Without saying a word, I walked out of the room, still angry. My mood had been ruined and I needed something to clear my head. I needed someone to talk to. Annabel seemed to fit in to my only option at that point in time.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 22

(By Sam Freddy.) 

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'Blackmail.'

I marked that word in quote. 

Blackmail is a strong word to use, especially for a cheat who claims to be a victim of rape, despite the evident proof of a video clip that clearly exposed her outrageous and inhumane act. How pathetic! 

In spite of my profound dislike for Deborah, somehow, a tingling sensation evoked emotions on my conscience, overwhelming me with guilt and causing me to see reasons with most of her words. Deborah claimed to have been raped, and supposedly blackmailed, too. I found it humorous and ridiculous, partly because of her reactions in the video tape. A rape victim, as she claims to be, was not supposed to moan with pleasure and ecstasy in her situation. Whereas, Deborahʼs case was the actual description of how she reacted.

Thoughts upon thoughts streamed in my head in numerous waves all through my ride in a taxi, which I had boarded to Annabelʼs hostel. I needed someone to talk to — to clear my head and relax in comfort and peace.

“Oga?” The taxi driverʼs voice jolted me out of my unpleasant reverie. “We are here, sir.”

Without saying a word, I paid my fare and got out of the taxi. Normally, I would have called to inform Annabel whenever I intended to visit her but my foul mood had pushed me to act on impulse.

After walking past the gate, I climbed the stairs to the fourth floor of the building where Annabelʼs room was situated. She lives alone in a small apartment on the outskirts of the campus. I placed a gentle knock on the door while I waited there, by the doorstep. I could hear loud music playing from inside the room.

I intended to knock again but then the door opened up and Annabel showed up, dressed in a very transparent gown that barely stretched above her knees and revealed much of her cleavage. She looked amused and somewhat surprised to see me.

“Neche!” Annabel walked closer and wrapped her arms around me, with a broad, bright smile. “You didn't tell me you were coming early.”

She withdrew her hands away from me after noticing my countenance. 

“What's up, dear? You look too moody. Is anything wrong?”

“I am fine.” I faked a smile. Despite the evident concern laced on her voice, I still couldn't compel myself to tell her anything that had transpired between me and Deborah. Annabelʼs birthday party was only a few minutes away. I had no intention to ruin her day or her mood as well.

“Are you sure you are fine, dear? Honestly, you don't look too good.”

“Annabel I am okay, trust me.” I assured her.

“Okay then, letʼs go in.” She said after a moment of hesitation, lacing her hand with mine as she gestured towards the door.

Annabel led me into the room and shut the door behind her. She ushered me to a seat and turned down the volume of the loud music playing from the DVD player. Thereafter, she joined me on the couch where I was seated, absentmindedly admiring her fancy apartment.

“You are my first guest since today, Neche.” Annabel announced. “Where is my birthday gift?”

“So soon?” I responded jovially. “It isn't even time for your birthday party yet.”

“Does it matter?” She countered. “I am dead serious — no kidding. Whereʼs my gift?”

“Annabel, I am hungry.”

“You dare not change the subject. I need my gift, now!” She pestered on adamantly.

I was about to respond back to her when a loud beeping sound buzzed from my phone. I removed it from my pocket, clicked on the message icon on the display bar and my countenance changed instantly. Annabel noticed my moody countenance and collected the phone from me to have a view too, and her facial expression turned sour at the message which reads thus:

“Bro, this is unfair! This is really inhumane! What couldʼve prompted you to act the way you did to her? Where are you now? Deborah just had another asthma attack and fainted. She is been rushed to the school clinic as I text this message. You need to rush down here, as soon as possible!”

“Who sent this?” Annabel demanded, evidently curious. She glared at me with keen curiosity.

“Timi.” I replied genuinely.

“I don't understand. How come?” She pushed on inquisitively. “What has Deborah got to do with this?”

“Annabel, itʼs a long story. You won't understand.”

“Then make me understand, Neche!” She was sounding annoyed. “Don't tell me you are still seeing that whore after all sheʼs done to you!”

“Is that what you think?” I was irritated by her flimsy assumption. “Annie, you of all people should know me too well by now. Whatsoever I had with Deborah died on that same night she betrayed me. How can you think this way? I am disappointed.”

Despite the severity of my words, Annabelʼs doubt and curiosity only worsened. She stood up from the couch, crossed her arms with a fixed, sour look and an intent gaze on me, and muttered the least of all questions I expected from her.

“Do you love me?”

I was with no doubt taken aback by the sudden, unexpected question. Do I love her? It was a complicated question to answer.

“I do.” I responded hesitantly.

“Why did you hesitate?” Annabelʼs sour look and the frown on her face grew worse. “For you to even hesitate before saying it, definitely means that you are simply being insincere. You still love that girl, Neche. Admit it.”

“What are you insinuating?” I was getting annoyed. “Annabel, I am more than disappointed in you. You seem not to know the kind of person I am. Once I am done with something, I am done with that thing for life. I don't go back to my vomit. You disappoint me.”

With those words, Annabelʼs curiosity and doubt lessened gradually after she realized the sincerity from my voice. She sat back on the couch, shifted close to me and put her hand on my hair, caressing it lightly.

“I am sorry.” She apologized genuinely.

“Annie, I am disappointed to be honest.”

“I am sorry na!” She ruffled my hair softly with a sad, guilty look. “I was only curious. Don't be offended.”

“Itʼs okay. I forgive you.” I assured her. 

She gleefully shifted closer to me and sealed her lips on mine for a brief kiss. After withdrawing from the kiss, she continued caressing my hair tenderly.

“What would you like to eat?” She asked, smiling.

“I am at your mercy.” I smiled back, too.

“Noodles?”

“Noodles will do.” I affirmed.

“Give me a minute then.” Annabel said and kissed my cheek, before getting up from the couch, heading straight to the kitchen. She swayed her bums as she walked and sent me arousing glances until she eventually got into the kitchen.

While alone in the living room, none of the programmes showing on the TV caught my interest, so I stood up and searched a small shelf by the edge of the room filled with books so I could get something to read instead. 

Along the line, I found a small book with the inscription “My Diary” on the front page. Annabelʼs full name was boldly written on it, so it undoubtedly had to be hers. I had a decent deal of respect for peopleʼs privacy a lot. I was intent on keeping it back when something, in form of a SIM pack slipped out of the diary.

I picked it up and to my surprise, it was an Airtel SIM card with a familiar number. The number was too familiar so out of sheer curiosity, I took out my phone and cross-checked it with an unknown number on my contact list, and to my utmost surprise, it appeared to be the exact same number with the SIM card. I was beyond shocked and baffled. I was bewildered.

Partly because, this same number had sent me the videos and photos of Deborahʼs alleged rape. The same unknown number had told me a lot of spiteful, unpleasant things about Deborah through text messages mostly. How possibly could it be Annabelʼs?

In the heat of that tense moment, Annabel walked out from the kitchen and at that instant, she froze still on her spot after noticing the SIM pack and her diary I was holding in both hands.

She looked utterly horrified beyond measures!

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 23

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Annabelʼs facial expression was a mixture of pure shock and plain fright combined. She looked bewildered beyond doubts.

“Itʼs not what you th--think.” She stuttered, frightened.

“Itʼs not what I think, as in?” I urged her on, lifting her diary and the SIM pack which I held on both hands up for emphasis. Annabel stammered and stuttered as she tried to speak, all to no avail. She was lost for words.

“I can't believe this.” I shook my head in utter disbelief. “So it's been you all this time, Annabel?”

She couldn't speak. She was numb.

“You sent me those fake messages? You were behind Deborah's sex-tapes and the pictures, too? You were behind this whole thing the entire time? You planned all of this?”

Beads of tears were sliding ceaselessly from Annabelʼs eyes as I fumed. I was engulfed with rage.

“Canʼt you talk?” I screamed and threw the diary I held straight at her, but she was quick enough to dodge it. It diverted and hit a certain framed painting on the wall instead which fell off and broke into shreds. I advanced closer towards Annabel with a fuming, enraged countenance. I got hold of her and dragged her to the wall, tightening her neck with both hands, attempting to choke her to death with every ounce of strength left in me.

Annabel coughed and screamed in agony. She kicked and struggled to loose free from my grasp. I eventually released my hold from her neck and stepped back, still fuming and enraged. She fell on the floor and coughed ceaselessly, using her hands to soothe her neck.

“I won't be the one to kill you.” I stepped backwards, picked up my phone from the table and dialled Timiʼs line. The moment he picked up, I asked him to describe the name and location of the clinic where Deborah was taken to for me. Thereafter, I put on my shoes, took up the Airtel SIM pack and faced Annabel who still lay on the floor breathing heavily, with one last glance.

“You see you, ehn, I will be back for you. I promise you.” I turned and made my way for the exit door. “Heartless animal like you. Good for nothing idiot.”

“I – I did it for–for you. I did it for–for love. Please,” Annabel coughed amidst tears as she spoke, “please forgive me, come back.”

I paid deaf ears to her pleas and forged forward, out of her apartment. I boarded a taxi by the roadside and described the location of the clinic where I was heading to in a haste.

—

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—

Some minutes later, I arrived at the venue described for me by Timi. Without wasting further time, I hastened my steps into the medical center and rushed to the counter-side where some nurses occupied.

“Good evening, sir.” One of the nurses addressed me formally. “How may I help you?”

“Someone. I need to see her. Sheʼs in this hospital. It's urgent.” I rushed my words.

“Your name, sir?”

“Chinecherem Stanley.”

“Her name, sir?”

“Deborah Etomi.” I answered hurriedly.

“Who is she to you?” The nurse asked as she jotted the details on a note.

“Iʼm her boyfriend — we are close. Please, I am in a hurry. I need to see her.”

“Hold on, sir.” The nurse said while she scanned a huge note-book quickly, then she said. “Ward 14. Take the stairs, go straight, turn by your left and make a right turn, sir.”

“Thank you.” I appreciated with a thankful gesture and scaled through the stairs as I followed the nurseʼs description.

One, two, three — I counted with a beating, trembling heart as I walked along some ward rooms — four, five, six — until I got to number fourteen. I halted by the hallway after I saw Deborah's father, her step-mother, Divine, Timi and Mr Fabian, Deborah's family driver, all standing by the hallway in tears, excluding Timi and Fabian.

Deborah's father shot me a harsh look. “You again? Haven't you done enough?” He spoke with uncontrollable tears as he pointed at me.

“What happened?” I looked at Timi, transferred my gaze at Divine who was also in tears, and then finally at Mr. Fabian.

“Somebody speak to me, please.” I lost my cool, gripping tightly onto Mr Fabianʼs suit. I was scared for the worst.

Then - right there and then, right before my eyes, the door of the ward opened up from the inside and two nurses dressed in medical outfits, wearing hand-gloves and a mask-like material, came out of the ward room, both pushing a stretcher containing the lifeless body of an unknown figure covered in white cloth from head to toes.

“DEBORAH!” I screamed at the top of my lungs, watching the nurses wheel away the lifeless body of the unknown figure right before my very eyes. I almost ran mad.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 24

(By Sam Freddy.) 

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Ceaseless beads of tears cascaded freely down my cheeks as I screamed out Deborah's name out of shock. 

Frightened, the two nurses wheeling away the lifeless body of the unknown figure, turned around to face me, both annoyed. The nurses ignored me and faced frontwards as they continued wheeling away the lifeless body on the stretcher.

“Who was that?” I asked, looking at Timi, with a literally protruding heartbeat.

“Bro, calm down. Itʼs someone else.”

“Who?” I countered impatiently.

“A man who shared the same ward with Deborah.” Timi explained. “He kicked the bucket some few minutes ago. Chill, bro, sheʼs alive.”

“Thank God.” I heaved a sigh and raised my hands up high for emphasis. All the while, Deborahʼs fatherʼs eyes had been on me with an angry look, still frowning. I turned to face him and went on my knees, interlocking my hands with a cloud of pity roaming around me.

“Sir, I am sorry sir.” I pleaded wholeheartedly with the elderly man. “You were like a father to me but I wronged you, sir. I wronged your daughter, Deborah, even more. I neglected her in her time of need and difficulty when she needed me the most. I abandoned her in her trying times. I was overwhelmed with hatred and blinded by bitterness. I now realize my stupidity and I regret my mistakes, sir. Please find a place in your heart to forgive me, sir.”

I was bitter with evident regret at that very moment. I gazed at the elderly man's face, eagerly hoping and awaiting for his response. Alas, with tears saturating his eyes, Deborah's father spoke softly.

“You are forgiven, son.” He patted my shoulder gently with a reassuring smile. “Get up on your feet, my son.”

I adhered. The elderly man shook my hands to signify and emphasize his genuine forgiveness for me. 

Afterwards, Divine, Deborahʼs friend pulled me into a warm hug to show the sincerity of her forgiveness, too. 

Emotions upon emotions saturated the air at that moment. I felt at ease, having been forgiven by the people that mattered most in my life. As soon as Divine pulled out of the hug, coincidentally, something fell out of my pocket and dropped on the ground — it was the SIM card pack which I had retrieved from Annabelʼs diary earlier.

With a smile on my face, I bent low, picked it up and raised it up high, facing the elderly man. “Sir, I have a confession to make.”

The elderly man looked somewhat confused. “A confession? What could that be, son?”

Without delay, I cleared my throat, composed myself and revealed the shocker to them. I narrated the whole ordeal to them about how Annabel had been the one behind Deborahʼs rape the whole time. I explained how I got to find out, leaving no detail excluded. At the end of my narration, starting from Deborahʼs father down to Mr. Fabian, were all left in the blue, completely awe-struck.

“Who is this Annabel in particular?” Deborah's father demanded, pulling out his phone from his pocket. “Do you know where she lives? I need every single detail about her.”

“I do, sir.” I affirmed.

“Ok.” The elderly man answered as he dialled a certain number on his phone.

“Hello.” He spoke hastily the moment the receiver at the other end picked the call.

“Am I speaking with the C.S.O?

Yes, sir. It's Chief Etomi on the line, sir.

Long time, sir. I just got intel about the prime culprit concerning my daughter's case, sir. I will appreciate it if you could send some of your men down here, sir.

Yes sir, send them to the school clinic, urgently.

Ok, sir. Thank you.”

Deborahʼs father dropped the call and faced me. “If this turns out to be true, I swear with my father's grave, I will make sure this so-called Annabel faces the law even if it costs me my last drop of blood.”

At that very moment, the door of the ward opened from inside and a female doctor walked out, sweating profusely. She looked exhausted. 

Deborahʼs father, Divine and Deborahʼs step-mother all rushed toward the doctor.

“Doctor, how is my daughter?” Deborah's step-mother inquired.

“She is fine, ma. We managed to stitch the wound on her head and stop the blood flow. She might likely experience a slight concussion when she recovers, but for now she needs as much rest as she can get, ma.”

“May we see her, doctor?”

“You may.” The doctor affirmed, walking away. Divine pushed the door open and we all trooped inside, hurriedly.

Lying on the hospital bed was a sick, pale-looking Deborah hanging in-between life and death. She was unconscious, covered in bandages on her head and her hands. I noticed her crutches placed by the bedside. She breathed slowly as a pint of medical drip connected to her body transfused slowly.

I sat beside her on the bed and touched her wrist to examine her pulse rate. She had expectedly increased temperature, too.

We were all afraid. In spite of the doctor's words of assurance, we couldn't help but ponder on what would become of Deborah's fate and condition. It would have been preferably better if she only fell and hit her head, had it not been for her sudden asthma attack which led her into her present state of unconsciousness.

“I am scared.” Divine voiced out, holding back bitter tears. “Will she make it?”

“She will.” I replied, unsure of my own words. “I know she will.”

“I hope so. I honestly pray she does.” Divineʼs eyes became saturated with tears.

At that very moment, Chief Etomiʼs phone rang out loudly. He picked up the call with haste. The moment he dropped the call, he informed us that the police officers had arrived and then asked me to follow him downstairs. Timi and Mr. Fabian followed suit behind us as we exited the ward, leaving Divine and Deborah's step-mum behind.

We met three police officers dressed casually downstairs. After a brief discussion between Deborah's father and the officers, we all exited the clinic's premises.

—

—

—

In about thirty minutes, exactly half an hour later, we eventually arrived at the outskirts of campus where Annabel's apartment was situated. The police officers parked their vehicle at the same spot Mr. Fabian had parked Chief Etomiʼs car. I led the way forward past the gate, into the main compound and then we scaled through the stairs.

We got to the fourth floor and I met the shock of my life there — Annabelʼs door — bolted shut and fastened with two huge padlocks, coupled with chains and an extra padlock on the outside gate.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 25

(By Sam Freddy.) 

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Astonishment and bewilderment are the proper words to express the extent of how shocked I was at that moment. I was bolted to the blue.

“Isn't she in?” One of the police officers asked after noticing the padlocked door. I shook my head in response, still baffled, and petrified.

“Whoever this lady is must be smart indeed. She undoubtedly figured out that she would be arrested and then she sought for an escape on time. Smart move indeed.” Another officer stated sarcastically.

“Officers, what do we do now?” Chief Etomi asked, concerned and worried.

“Investigations, sir.” The officer replied, averting his eyes from Annabelʼs door, and then he looked at me. “Call her number now, and make sure it's on loud speaker.”

I adhered without delay. With haste, I dialled Annabelʼs number and clicked on the loud speaker icon. While waiting expectantly as Annabelʼs number dialled, a feminine customer agentʼs voice resonated instead reporting the number switched off.

“This lady is smart.” The police officer spoke and heaved an exasperated sigh.

“Plan B comes in here.” Another officer added, taking out his walkie-talkie device strapped in his vest. He powered it on and placed his intent focus on me.

“How does this lady look like? Can you describe her appearance?”

“Sure, officer.” I responded. I described every detail concerning Annabelʼs appearance to the officers, excluding no single detail. “She also has a car, officer. A small Honda, dark blue in color.”

“Do you know the plate number?”

“Unfortunately I don't, sir.”

The officer shook his head pitifully, nodded at me with an understanding gesture, and then he placed the walkie-talkie device to his ear.

“Unit seven, Sergeant Bernard, over!”

Another voice responded from the receiverʼs end. Afterwards, the officer continued speaking.

“Unit seven, inform all units in range to stand guard in position and conduct a road search. A lady named Annabel Wilfred suspected of a crime is on the loose. Slightly dark skinned, braided hair, slim and considerably tall in height. She might most likely be in a vehicle — a dark blue Honda car — so keep serious watch. Over and out.”

“Roger, sir!”

I was undoubtedly impressed by how efficient and how well coordinated the police officers' strategy and tactics was. In spite of that, a certain unknowing feeling of fear still lingered inside of me, making me afraid for the worst. Annabel was with no doubt naturally cunning and smart. The fear of Annabel escaping after all the atrocities and crime she committed was a huge possibility I was scared to come to terms with. She had the tendency to do and undo. I wanted her to face the law squarely for her atrocities.

“Young man, is there anywhere else you think we can check that this lady might likely be?” An officer asked, interrupting my thoughts.

“Yes, sir.” I replied the officer. “Our faculty, perhaps. It's worth a try.”

“Where else do you have in mind?”

“None that I can think of aside our department, sir.” I responded.

“Alright then. Let's hurry up to your faculty if that's the case.” The officer stated. “Lead the way.”

Deborahʼs father, Mr. Fabian and I boarded his own vehicle while the police officers followed closely behind us in their official police van with its sirens blaring loudly. I described and gave directions to Fabian concerning my department's location while Chief Etomi sat behind, silent and worried.

In due time we arrived back to the campus and we had managed to cover almost half of the distance when we happened to get hooked in traffic. It was an intense traffic that caused unnecessary delay. Hawkers and traders utilized the advantage to sell their goods to passengers on the road.

Mr. Fabian called a hawker selling soft drinks and snacks by a small shade, and she wasted no time to adhere. She hastened towards us with her goods and stood next to the vehicle, panting heavily.

“Do you have cold bottled water?”

“E dey, oga.”

“Bring three madam.” Fabian said, stretching some Naira notes to her.

Along the line, I viewed the scenery of the road through the mirror, observing passers-by and the traffic. I averted my eyes from the traffic and focused on a wide garage where various buses and taxis were situated. I noticed a conductor and a passenger quarreling seriously. I noticed a young teenage boy hawking fruits. And then like a reflex action, I noticed someone; a lady wearing a dark jacket with a hood over her head, a blue face-cap and black shades partially veiling her features. She stood close to a taxi, holding two travelling bags. Annabelʼs hair was braided but I couldn't tell if this lady's hair was braided, due to the hood and the face-cap over her head.

I quickly tapped Mr. Fabian. “Sir, take a look at that lady there.” I pointed at the lady's direction. Mr. Fabian followed my gesture and then faced me again.

“Do you think she is the one?”

“Iʼm not sure sir, but I think she is Annabel.”

“Are you sure? You have to be certain. Don't jump into conclusions yet.”

“Sir, I have a strong feeling about this lady.” I said and opened the door without hesitating, came down from the car and started heading toward the garage. Deborahʼs father and Fabian called me back but I paid deaf ears to them, advancing closer to the lady.

Coincidentally, some few steps further, the lady averted her gaze from the road and looked towards my direction and she flinched the moment she saw me heading closer to her. She dropped her travelling bags and like a wave of electric current, she took to her heels immediately. I ran after her, too, hastening my pace. I had almost caught up with her when a motorcyclist came from nowhere and halted before the lady. She climbed on it in haste, took one last look behind precisely at me and then raised her middle finger at me as the motorcyclist sped off.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 26

(By Sam Freddy.) 

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Why should an unknown lady take to her heels the moment she sighted me, if she isn't of course guilty of a crime? I thought to myself, panting heavily, exhausted from the distance at which I had chased the motorcyclist. I was certain that the lady on the motorcycle was none other than Annabel, disguised in a dark hood, dark shades and a face-cap. I could recognize her dubious face at any point in time.

I halted by the roadside amidst the intense traffic, watching the motorcyclist zoom off farther with the lady. I was exhausted from running. My legs wobbled.

Gracefully, I glanced behind me and saw the police officers' van and Chief Etomiʼs vehicle speeding towards me. They had used the u-turn which was officially illegal under the law, but urgently needed in our situation.

“Officers, thatʼs the lady. I am sure that is Annabel!” I shouted at the top of my voice as their vehicles halted before me.

“Get in! Quick!” One of the officers instructed. I adhered hurriedly.

The vehicle picked momentum as the officer ignited the engine. He sped up at a considerable pace and speed to meet up with and cover the distance of the motorcyclist.

Halfway into the road with the police sirens blaring loudly, still on the intense pursuit of the motorcyclist, Chief Etomiʼs Hummer Jeep broke down and likewise, we encountered traffic. The motorcyclist utilized the advantage to his own good by taking shortcuts and using narrow lanes to escape farther. The traffic hindered us from pursuing them any further.

The three police officers and I stepped out of the van altogether, contemplating on whether to chase the motorcyclist on foot or not. Fabian suggested a nice idea instead. He walked to an elderly motorcyclist and pleaded with him to borrow us his motorcycle. At first, the motorcyclist acted reluctant, but at the sight of the officers on their official vests, he eventually gave in. He offered his motorcycle to us.

Sergeant Bernard, who had the highest rank amongst the other officers, steered the motorcycle and ignited the engine. He gestured at one of the officers to follow him, but instead, I quickly took the officers' place and sat behind the sergeant.

“Young man, what are you doing?”

“Assisting you, sir.” I responded confidently.

“You don't even have any legal training, young man. This is not child's play or a drama series either. I hope you are well aware, boy?” The sergeant cautioned me, concerned.

I nodded. “I know, sir.”

Chief Etomi patted my shoulder and said calmly. “Be careful, my son.”

With that, the sergeant ignited the motorcycle again and zoomed off. The traffic was easy to by-pass due to the motorcycle's size; we crossed narrow lanes and shortcuts which led us back in no time to Annabel and the motorcyclistʼs view.

Something astonishing happened thereafter.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 27

(By Sam Freddy.)

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Something astonishing happened like a movie flashing before our very eyes. 

A black Sienna jeep halted directly before Annabel and her motorcyclistʼs vehicle, and somebody's hand showed from the jeep's glass frame signalling and making gestures for Annabel to hop in. Annabel's motorcyclist halted beside the jeep, while she hastily stepped down from the motorcycle, opened the door of the jeep and quickly hopped inside.

The black Sienna jeep sped off immediately, taking another route, while Annabel's motorcyclist zoomed off straight ahead as well.

Sergeant Bernard and I still retained our pursuit from afar. We took the same route which the Sienna jeep had crossed — which happened to be a narrow road with pot-holes and gallops, coupled with mud, gutters and thick bushes all around the surroundings.

All of a sudden, the Sienna jeep stopped moving on its own accord. The sergeant and I were too close to their vehicle. Sergeant Bernard quickly tapped me to take cover by the trees, while he took out his pistol from his vest. He fired a loud, deafening shot.

His first shot was aimed at deflating their vehicleʼs tyre, thereafter, he fired another shot in the air to serve as a warning.

“All of you in that vehicle, step out one by one; your hands in the air before I count to three.” The sergeant warned viciously.

“One,” he started counting, using his fingers for emphasis. Regardless of the sergeant's threats, the unknown individuals in the vehicle refused to come out.

“Two—” The sergeant continued, cocking his pistol to signify his seriousness.

“Three!” The sergeant concluded, pointing his pistol at the vehicle's glass frame.

Then, like the deafening sound of a trumpet, a loud gunshot boomed from the culprits' vehicle. Sergeant Bernard groaned loudly and fell to the ground, panting. He had been shot instead on his left leg.

Hurriedly, I leaped out from the tree where I had taken cover, and rushed to the sergeant to aid him to his feet. I knelt beside him, trying to assist him to stand upright but then — before I knew it — a thick metallic object brushed my hair from behind.

“No even try am.” A broad masculine voice cautioned sternly behind me.

“Shift away from him,” A lady's voice ordered, “and raise your hands up.”

I obeyed her out of caution and for my safety. Frightened, I glanced behind me and faced the lady wearing dark shades, a dark jacket with a hood over her head and a face-cap. There were two men behind me as well, both armed. I was still on my knees, with my hands raised up. The lady took off her glasses with an avid but stern stare at me.

“Annabel, why are you doing this?”

“Neche, it's due to the love I have for you that will make me spare you this time around. Tell your escorts or whatever they are to stop trailing us. I hope this teaches you a vital lesson.” She stated bluntly, and then snapped her fingers afterwards.

A loud gunshot followed suit immediately. One of the armed men behind me shot Sergeant Bernard's wounded leg again, making him groan loudly in immense pain. The other armed man concluded it by aiming straight at the sergeant's chest. He killed him ruthlessly. 

I screamed at the close rate of proximity between I and the sergeant's lifeless body. His blood spilled all over my body and my clothes.

“Stop following us, be warned!” Annabel cautioned again, snapping her fingers at the armed men to signify their departure.

“Annabel, how can you be so heartless?”

She ignored me and kept on moving with the armed men. I couldn't allow them escape so easily. I picked up the late sergeant's pistol from the ground, attempting to aim at one of the armed men but before I knew it — a sharp pain pierced through my arm, precisely around my shoulder region. I fell flat to the ground, groaning in pain. I had been shot by my right arm.

“She warned you, didn't she?” One of the armed guys barked angrily, pointing his pistol at my head.

“Leave him alone, Jubril.” Annabel ordered. “Let's leave here.”

“I must waste this fool.” Jubril persisted, cocking his pistol at me.

I closed my eyes slowly, expecting my ill-fated death.

“Hold it!”

We were all jolted by the sudden baritone voice from nowhere. A group of police-men had arrived at the scene, all armed. I could spot out Chief Etomi and Mr. Fabian among them.

“Drop your weapons! Your hands in the air!”

Annabel's accomplice pointing the pistol at me disregarded the order. He sought to take to his heels instead, attempting a narrow escape. One precise shot at his leg sent him stumbling to the ground with a loud groan.

Reluctantly, Annabel and her other accomplice surrendered to the police. Chief Etomi, Fabian and some officers rushed to my aid. My shoulder bled profusely.

Despite the immense pain I felt, I still managed to take one last look at Annabel's horrified face. She returned a stern glare back at me. Alas, the repercussions of her atrocities eventually caught up with her in a bitter-sweet cycle.

Nemesis, indeed, had been fulfilled.

#SISTER_DEBORAH

Episode 28 [FINAL EPISODE]

(By Sam Freddy.)

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“Is he alive?”

“Can he hear me?”

“Is he breathing?”

“Of course, he is.”

“Doctor, are you certain heʼs alive? Why isn't he speaking? Why can't he hear us?”

“Please calm down, ma. He is still unconscious. Your son is hale and hearty. Heʼs fine.”

I heard all these voices in my state of unconsciousness. In spite of the unbearable pain I felt on my shoulder and the throbbing headache, too, my mother's voice was paramount to any other person's voice I could easily identify. Slowly but steadily, I opened my eyes.

Ijeoma, my elder sister, was the first to notice my consciousness. She screamed loudly, attracting the others. I noticed I was in a hospital ward. I could see some familiar faces; Chief Etomi, Divine, Timi, Hakeem, Fatai, my parents, Fabian and then Ijeoma who sat directly beside me on the sick bed.

Ijeoma's scream attracted everyone to our direction. They all gathered around me with faces of joy mixed with sadness and pity. My mother held my hand, with tears streaming down her face, mumbling prayers and songs of praise. My father, however, being one who rarely tends to show his feelings and emotions, only smiled and patted my left arm calmly.

The doctor diagnosed me for a proper check-up for a moment, before eventually taking his leave. Chief Etomi narrated everything that had happened during my state of unconsciousness. I was told that Iʼd passed out due to my bleeding arm which sustained the wound from the gunshot. I was then rushed to the school clinic but before then, Iʼd lost too much of blood, so I had to be found a donor. Chief Etomi called my friends and informed my parents about the whole ordeal.

Regarding Annabel's case, Chief Etomi stated that she and her accomplices eventually confessed to their crime. She confessed that she was behind Deborah's rape and the sex-tapes, and that Jubril and Lateef were her accomplices during the act. Chief Etomi swore to make her especially, pay for her atrocities and face the law in court.

“May Sergeant Bernard's soul rest in absolute peace.” Chief Etomi concluded.

“Amen!” We all chorused in unity.

A brief silence ensued for a moment in tribute of the late heroic sergeant. Thereafter, Ijeoma broke the silence.

“Baby bro, what's up?” She punched my arm gently, and smiled. I only smiled in return.

“Your story should be the perfect definition of Romeo and Juliet, for real.” Ijeoma teased me. “In this present era, how many people can be as heroic as you did today. You took a bullet for the love of your life. She is so lucky indeed.”

Ijeoma's words reminded me of someone — someone I ought to be by her side. Someone my heart and soul yearns for with each and every single beat.

“Where is Deborah?” I suddenly voiced out, sitting up properly. I attempted to take off the cable of the medical drip connected to my arm, but Timi stopped me.

“Deborah is fine, bro. Sheʼs regained consciousness about an hour ago but she's asleep now. You need to rest, too.”

“I need to see her.” I persisted. I removed the cable of the drip from my hand and stood to my feet, despite the disapproval from everyone urging me to rest.

Reluctantly, after much persuasion from me, they eventually led me to Ward 14 — where Deborah was admitted.

Deborah's step-mother, Mrs. Etomi, sat on a chair beside Deborah's bed, reading a novel aloud. Unknown to us, Deborah was already fully awake. 

Our eyes made direct contact upon my entry. Mrs. Etomi noticed my presence and halted her novel reading. Deborah's eyes and mine shared unknowing glances together as I stood by the entrance door, overwhelmed with guilt. Mrs. Etomi quietly stood up and excused us, as well as everyone else did.

Deborah sat up properly, glaring at my wounded bandaged arm at first, and then she turned her gaze towards the wall, avoiding my eyes. I took calculated steps toward her slowly, and then I sat next to her on the bed.

“I am sorry.” I eased the silence between us. She heaved a sigh, still avoiding to make eye contact with me.

“I completely understand if you probably hate me now more than ever, but Iʼve realized my mistakes, and I am truly sorry, Deborah.”

She still retained her silence nonetheless.

“Won't you speak to me?”

“What do you want me to say?” She questioned back and faced me, annoyed. “You abandoned me, Neche. You neglected me in my time of misery and depression. Yet, you feel like you can just walk back into my life and Iʼll gladly welcome you with wide open arms?”

“I wasn't myself then. I was deceived. Try to understand me, my love.”

“Please spare me the pity face. Joker.” Deborah hissed and frowned.

There was a grave silence between us for a while. With sadness and guilt, I stood up from the bed to excuse her.

“And where are you going to?”

I turned around and looked at her, confused.

“Come back here.” Deborah ordered, tapping a vacant spot beside her. I heeded her request and sat down quietly.

“So you were just gonna leave like that?” She frowned. “Without giving me a kiss, at least?”

I swallowed hard, unsure of what to say.

Deborah wrapped her arms around me, embracing me with a warm, soothing kiss. I reciprocated the kiss. I never wanted to let her go. She tasted like honey, blissful and sweet.

One thing would have led to another if Chief Etomi hadn't intruded into the ward. He was followed by the others and they caught us right in the act. Deborah and I adjusted ourselves properly upon their entry. Our hands still remained entwined, though.

“I see.” Chief Etomi coughed stylishly, averting his gaze from us. “Well, I am sorry to intrude in your get-together moment but according to the doctor's report, it is time to go home Deborah. You have been discharged.”

“Ok, sir.” Deborah sadly responded. She climbed down from the bed and literally stood to her feet, attempting to pick her crutches. Surprisingly, she stood still for a moment, looking astonished. Everyone's focus was on her, evidently curious.

Deborah took one step towards her crutches, walking normal and upright unlike how she usually tends to hold objects to aid her movement. One step, two steps, three steps, four, five, six — 

“Father, can you see this?” She screamed excitedly. “Father I can walk! I am walking!”

Seven steps, eight steps, nine steps, ten steps — until she got to twelve unbelievable steps! It was shocking, and amazing! 

Deborah walked to her father instead without falling and stumbling. 

“Mother, I can walk! I can walk!” She cried out of joy and excitement.

Excess celebration and joy engulfed the air. We were all happy for Deborahʼs miraculous recovery. At last, weeping may endure for the night but joy cometh in the morning.

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The End!

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