The below story was related in the year 2013. Please read and learn especially ladies......

I do hope the story I am about to share with you inspires you especially women. Many women have that believe that we can't do without a man financially speaking and we sometimes make the mistake of becoming overly dependent on a man, this mistake should never be made especially in this century we find ourselves in. Here is my story.

I will refer to myself as Chioma. I was born and bred in one of the villages in the Eastern part of Nigeria and my family was very poor. I had parents who put it in my heart that to make it in life, I had to marry a rich man who will also help raise the family up, that was the mind set I had right from my childhood days. I come from a large family and back in the days it was hell and as the first child of my family it became imperative that I married a rich man.

At the age of 16 I finished my secondary school education and before then I had a suitor coming, he was the 32 year old son of a wealthy village chief back in the village and the agreement was that we would get married immediately I was done with secondary school. To my family a 'Messiah' had arrived. Well we did get married as soon as I left secondary school and for my family, life improved. My father built his first house and he was able to purchase two buses for his transport business and my mother went into trading.

In the first year of my marriage I took in and soon after,
I bore a set of twins, a boy and a girl. My husband was so happy and life was sweet, the second year of the marriage was sweeter and so were the third, fourth and fifth but as the fifth year was about wrapping up beautifully as I had hoped, things took a drastic turn. My husband of five years suddenly began to misbehave, he became an adulterer and many were the times he would bring them home and have sex with them on our matrimonial bed right under my nose, when I dared to challenge him, he would beat me black and blue. This treatment went on for almost a year without my family or his knowing, I wanted to remain the loyal wife who prayed and hoped her husband would come back to his senses especially considering the fact that I had taken in again but that was never to happen.

In our sixth year of marriage, he told me a woman had taken in for him and she was moving in with us, I told him that that was never going to happen "How dare you challenge my authority, have you now become the head of this family?" he had shouted at the top of his voice. At that point, I could take it no more, I wasn't going to allow another woman share my matrimonial home with me so off I went to report to his parents for I felt that was the wisest thing to do, so to his parents I did go, and report to them I did do and they told me they were going to summon him.

Two weeks after reporting him to his parents, my husband came home very drunk and started shouting my name right form the gate "You this stupid woman from the poorest family on earth, are you not grateful that I married you and put your poverty stricken family out of shame?" I will never forget those harsh words. Then he came into the house and a punch on my chest was what I received. "How dare you go and report me to my parents, are you mad?" That day he gave me the beating of my life and sadly, I lost my pregnancy and on my back, I have a scar that serves as a reminder of the beating I got that day.

My people, that was the beginning of hell for me, all words to reconcile us were abortive, he brought his new woman to live in the house and she began her own war with me almost immediately....the most painful part of it all was when I told my husband that I could not live under the same roof with a man I call my husband and his new woman, that I was gong to leave, he said "Chioma, nothing is stopping you from leaving with your bastard children, do you think I don't know they are not mine?" I nearly fainted when he said those words to me..."You mean children I had bore in your home are not yours?" I had asked in tears

"Yes, I know that they are not mine,do you think I have forgotten that secondary school boyfriend of yours? (I actually had a boy I was close to back in secondary school which my husband knew about but that was all, just friendship)

"I never had anything to do with him and you know it" I told him in tears

"Let this be the last time you will challenge my authority in this house, the next time you try it, you are leaving, those bastard twins are not mine, the only pregnancy you had for me was the one you lost due to your stupidity"

"I lost that pregnancy because you beat me"

"Yes I did because you stupidly had the guts to report me to my parents"

"I never knew you were such a selfish man, I cause the day I married you" I had said to him and as usual, I had received the beating of my life and his woman also joined in beating me and that day, I and my twins were thrown out of the house and back to my parents house we went empty handed. My father wasn't really sympathetic towards my situation because he believed I was disrespectful to my husband and stupidly allowed another woman to take my matrimonial home but it hurt me that he was more concerned about not benefiting from my husband as he used to. My mother was very encouraging and was happy I had come out of there alive.

My village is a very small one and news spread like wild fire, I hadn't been back to my parents' up to three weeks when a very wealthy woman who came visiting her parents in the village heard my story and came looking for me. She was very sympathetic and told me she had past through a similar situation but she never gave up. she asked me what I could do and I told her nothing since I had not learnt a skill and neither had I furthered my education. She asked if I was interested in becoming a fashion designer and I said yes without thinking. Then she told me she had a friend who owned a very big fashion school in one of the big cities in Nigeria and she would sponsor me there.

So that was how I left the village to one of the big cities in Nigeria, the woman gave me a small room in her BQ to manage, there I stayed with my kids who were by then almost seven years old. My sponsor also put them in school. That woman was so lovely(she is late now) I ran a two year course in fashion designing and I specialized in sewing all of women's wears including wedding gowns.When I was done, I did my IT in one of the fashion houses in the city I had done my course and afterwards, I was retained because I was very good. I was there for five years and in time gathered capital to set up my own fashion business.

This story I am sharing with you happened some twenty five years ago! Yes that long ago but I believe it is worthy of inspiration. I got married in 1980 and had my twins in 1981. My marital problems began in 1988 so making twenty five years since I left my matrimonial home.

I am now 48 years of age,and I have made a name for myself in the fashion business, I have a fashion school and a fashion house and in time I ventured into other businesses and all thanks to God, I am a very independent woman able to buy anything I want for myself and go anywhere I wish to go to in the world.

I know you might be wondering 'how about her twins?' Yes that is the most beautiful part of it, I gave them the education I never had. They are now 31 years of age. My daughter got married at the age of twenty five to a medical doctor who practices in Holland and she has lived there since her marriage, from her, I have got two beautiful granddaughters. My son, that boy is something else, he told me he wasn't going to get married until he had his doctorate degree. At 23 he had his first degree, at 25 his second and at 29 his third. Actually he was married in March last year and a grandchild is on the way.

Why have I decided to share my story? Its simply to inspire young ladies especially. If you are happily married now, I am happy for you but please do not be unskilled or without a profession, just try to do something because no one actually knows what the future holds and if you are skilled now or practicing a profession, please continue.

And if you are experiencing one heart ache or the other now in your marriage, do not give up, try your best to redeem your marriage but if you have tried and redemption is impossible don't become a shadow of your former self, pick up the pieces and move on, life is too short to allow yourself lie flat because of a failed marriage.

Are you seeking a mate? Please look well and never let your judgement be clouded, never have the mind set I had in my childhood days that a woman needs a rich man to make it in life, it is a terrible lie. Marry for the sake of unconditional love whether he is made or not and if the guy is nothing today don't give up on him especially if he has got good potentials, stick with him and make his tomorrow a better one and when you do, the glory will be on you the woman, no sane man ever forgets a woman who sticks with him through thick and thin.

I hope I have in one way or the other inspired you with my story, I picked up my pieces and if you are going through any situation in life now, you too can pick up the pieces my dear sisters.




Remain blessed!!!

6 months Later.............

Six months has gradually gone by. Looking at my desktop calendar, I counted down to the days my annual leave would begin. I couldn't wait to see my mum again,we had seen last about a year and half ago when she had paid me a surprise visit. 'My mum,my rock'. I muttered as I stared at her picture on my desk. My colleagues often mocked me saying my mates had pictures of their wives and kids on their desk but I had a picture of my mother. I didn't care. 'My mum is my world'. I had always replied them.
There was a light tap on my door,looking up from my mum's picture I invited whoever in. The door opened and my boss walked in. Immediately I got to my feet to pay obeisance to my hero,my mentor. I have come to learn a whole lot from this man.
"Good afternoon sir" I greeted him as I bowed my head.
"Good afternoon my boy" he responded as he took his seat opposite mine at the same time placing his walking stick on my desk. Since I took ownership of this office after my promotion,it was his first time coming in here. " So how are you Abel?"
"Very well sir" I replied as I took my seat. "Its an honor having you in my office sir, your first time here."
" Yes it is,I just decided to move around a bit today,its being so long, maybe its just my way of taking in the whole scenery before I retire"
"Seriously sir,you are retiring soon?"
"These old bones have to son,I will be seventy five in two weeks time"
"Wow!" I exclaimed. " You don't look it one bit sir,I have always thought you were in your sixties " I told him and watched as he laughed out loud.
" I wish,anyway I thank God for the health he has blessed me with,it has helped me look younger than my age"
"Really it has sir,we will miss you when you retire sir"
"I will be coming in once in a while at least until Ella can fully manage on her own"
"I trust your daughter will do a good job sir" I said in her favor. She had never come to his office again since their last encounter. They had bumped into each other on several occasions and had just greeted casually,most times he even being the first to extend a greeting...such a snub!
" Actually Ella is my niece but over the years she has come to be the daughter I lost" Mr. Anderson said and I saw a kind of pain on his face that said a lot.
"Really Sir? I thought she was your daughter"
"My kid sister's only child, my kid sister is the only surviving relative I have,we lost our parents and three siblings at different times in the history of my family" He said forcing a smile.
"Sorry about that sir,you said you lost a daughter,so sorry about that too"
"Thanks Abel, I actually had a wife and two kids, a boy and a girl. They were my everything but death took them from me all in one day......my children were in a boarding secondary school in Abuja,before resumption,they and their mother went to Port Harcourt to visit her parents. Their plane to Abuja crashed killing all on board including my wonderful family,that was some sixteen years ago,my children were thirteen and fifteen at that time" He said with so much pain in his voice. "After that incident,it took me a whole five years to bounce back to my usual self,it still hurts like yesterday but I get to find the needed strength to go on"
"So sorry Sir, I never knew"
"You couldn't have known Abel. A year after I lost my family, Ella lost her dad in a ghastly motor accident somewhere in Aba,after the funeral,she and her mum relocated to the UK,my sister has never come back to this country in fifteen years, Ella came a few times at my insistence. They are the only family I have,Ella owns every thing I have worked for in my life"
And she was being so bossy about it, I thought to myself. Well how fortunate she was,Mr.Anderson was handling her an empire on a platter of gold,he could only hope she could handle it all.
"Well life goes on as they say" My boss said as he made himself for comfortable,crossing one leg over the other.
"You are right sir"
"Is that a picture of your girlfriend?" He asked turning the frame to his direction..."No can't be" he replied his own question
" My mum"
" You look so much like her"
"So people often tell me"
"Are you the first child?" This was the first time Mr. Anderson was really getting personal with him,all their discussions had been work related,wondering to what he owed this personal discussion,he replied.
"Yes I am the first Sir,I have a younger brother and two younger sisters"
"I see,so who's the girl in your life? Don't tell me you don't plan settling down soon?" At this juncture I couldn't help but wonder what got my boss in this mood? Is this what retirement does to one? Gets them all chatty?
"Well I have no one in my life now sir" I said to him and was forced to narrate a story I had told myself I will never talk about again.
"Its sad really,no man likes it when a woman looks down on him but the good thing about the story is that your life has turned out well,I am sure if this Oluchi girl should see you now she will surely regret all she said to you but not withstanding,you shouldn't shut your heart to love Abel"
"When the timing is right maybe I will Sir"
"There's someone who seems to like you a lot"
"Me?" I asked,taken aback
"Yes,my niece Ella" he replied with a smile.
"Miss Ella?" I asked nearly falling off my chair. Hadn't heard a good joke in a long time!
"Strange right? She does like you,at home your name is the only music I hear,she has asked me so many questions about you"
"Well sit,maybe she just wants to know for company related issues"
"I may be seventy five boy but not stupid. I know when a woman is in love"
"In love?"
"You may see her to be all tough but inside she's a sweet little girl,if only you can take the time to know her".
" I am shocked sir" I said in all honesty. The almighty Ella asking questions about me? In love with me? No, Mr. Anderson might have dreamt it,I concluded from within.
"Well,keep up the good work son I am impressed with your work,your studiousness, your ability to multi task is amazing,keep that flag flying and you will go places" Mr. Anderson said as he slowly got to his feet,picking up his walking stick.
"Thank you so much for stopping by sir" I told him getting to my feet at the same time accepting his hand for a handshake,still mesmerized by what he had told me about the almighty Ella. With a pat on my arm,he walked out of my office with the aid of his walking stick.

I sat back in my chair, my last and only encounter with Ella came to my mind,it was six months ago but I still remembered it well, her attitude that day had pissed me off so bad and I had prayed never to cross her path again, I can't stand irritable women especially those who felt they had it all. He was glad he had put her in her place that day and she had never stepped her feet in his office again. They had met at management meetings, passed each other at different offices with just a wave or a muttered greeting. And now old man Anderson says she's in love with him? Nah, the old man was beginning to see things,no girl in love treats the man she loves the way she treated him six months ago,neither does she pass him by without striking a conversation with him.
Looking at my desktop calendar again, my eyes fell on the circled date,I was going on my annual leave in four days,I will have the time of my life with mum and forget Mr.Anderson ever related to me his dream.


The story continues watch out for the finale of, Abel's Journal...... The Ositas are planning a wedding!!! Hayyyyyyyy!!!

Three Years On......
Parking my brand new Honda Accord Crosstour SUV,2014 model in my parking slot, I raced out of my car,heading for the elevator. I had a management meeting to attend by 10 am and I still had to finish up my slides for my presentation. Heading to the elevator,I was relieved I didn't have 'co passengers . I immediately punched the button to the fourth floor. Looking at my wrist watch,I realized it was 8:45 am. I had an hour fifteen minutes.
"Good morning sir" My PA greeted me as I jumped out of the elevator in a hurry at the same time handling her my brief case.
"Good morning Gloria,how was your weekend?"
" Very well sir and yours?" She asked matching my long strides to my office.
" Was busy all through preparing my slides and yet I have not rounded up"
"Anything I can help you with sir?" She asked as she rushed ahead of me to open the door leading to my tastefully furnished office.
"None at the moment dear". I said to her as I took my seat behind my desk. Gloria set my brief case on the desk and quickly I opened it to retrieve my laptop.
'I will be at my desk if you need me sir"
"Alright Gloria" I said to her as she took her leave. I relaxed back in my extra soft and comfy executive chair wondering how I was going to start my presentation. Looking at my wrist watch again,I realized I had an hour and five minutes. At this juncture I am so tempted to pause and spend a little time telling you how my last three years have been. Here it goes....

Over the last three years,I have been so busy with my professional career. I decided not to get involved with any woman again, I had been hurt so bad,the pain was still so fresh. I had loved so hard that I felt I had no love to give anymore. So I started a relationship with ICAN instead and became a Chartered Accountant. When I started working with D W Anderson, I started as a junior accountant, working in the book keeping department,where I handled bookkeeping services for clients such as account payable and receivable,billing,payroll,monthly and quarterly taxes,bank reconciliations,general ledger entries and monthly trial balances. Sometimes I helped generate financial statements.
When I became a Chartered Accountant, I was promoted to the accounting department. In my department, we help clients create budgets,perfect financial statements, prepare local,state and federal tax returns.

Last year I was made the chief auditor of my department,in my department we perfect financial statements, prepare local,state and federal tax returns. We also offer audit and business valuation services,monitor depreciation of assets and help clients determine cash flow needs. We also specialize in setting up computer accounting systems.
Three years on the job, I have come to learn a whole lot, I am a whole new brand in the field of accounting and I am so loving it. In the future, I hope to do more of consulting focusing on managing financial investments just like what my boss does currently. He is a guru in this field with nearly forty years experience in accounting, with numerous certifications to his credit. He goes in and out of government establishments as he pleases, handling various projects for them. As a certified government financial manager(CGFMs), my boss mainly works with the federal,state and local government.

I mustn't fail to mention how honored I am to be a part of the leading accounting firms in the country with about twenty branches across the federation. So being so busy,I had hardly had the time to think of a relationship. Don't get me wrong,I have in the course of my job seen and being around some really beautiful women, some had even made passes at me but I just can't bring myself to fall in love again.
My ringing intercom chased me out of my thoughts......
"Hello Jude" I said into the receiver, recognizing the caller's number. Jude and I have in the space of time become such good friends, he is married with three lovely kids.
"Guy how far? How was your weekend?"
"Busy with my presentation all through,yours?"
"Same but I was able to round up early hours of Sunday,my wife warned me not to allow it affect our Sunday routine" he replied laughing
"I just need to put some finishing touches to mine and I will be good to go"
"You mean an entire weekend wasn't enough for you to finish up? Guy tell me the truth what were you up to? Who is she?" He asked still laughing
" Nahhhh, no she in the matter,guess I was just lazy"
"That's why I always tell you that you have to settle down my guy,if you had a woman at home, she surely would have made you finish up your presentation"
" Here you go again, I don't need to be married to do what I have got to do"
" Oluchi really did something to you" he said sounding sad
"I will just round up and head to the conference room" I said to him as I punched some keys on my keyboard, I didn't want to talk about Oluchi, not now,not ever.
"Okay, we have thirty minutes"
"Alright, thanks"
"Don't be late Guy" he said as he hung up.

***************************************************************

It was 9:50 am when my boss walked into the conference room with the same lady I had been seeing him with for two weeks. I placed her age to be twenty six,twenty seven. Bespectacled and of average height. Not fat not slim. Not so beautiful but okay,at least presentable . We had never said a word to each other the few times our path had crossed,I had looked at her as a snub,full of pride. Her clothes were simple but looked expensive. The scent of her perfume traveled round the room.
I stole a glance at her as she took her seat next to our big boss.Could she be his daughter? I knew nothing of my boss' family,no one mentioned them and I had never bothered to ask any one. I scanned their faces for some resemblance but saw none.
" Alright ladies and gentlemen" came my boss' husky voice. "A good Monday morning to you all,hope you all enjoyed your weekend?" He asked as he looked around him.
" Yes sir" we all chorused "And you sir?" Mrs Hassan the company's general manager asked on our behalf.
" it was extremely busy as usual,I had to fly to Abuja on Saturday for a meeting with some government officials,the meeting didn't end that day as we had hoped,it extended through Sunday to the early hours of this morning, 2 am to be precise "
"Are you serious sir?" I was forced to ask him,there was no sign of tiredness written on his face.
" I came straight here from the airport " he said in a matter of fact voice.
"How do you do it sir? How do you manage the stress?" Jude asked in admiration.
" its being forty long years Jude in this profession of ours, a long time enough to learn stress management" he answered with a smile.
" You will need to go home early to rest boss" Kunle,his PA said.
" I have a meeting at the government house by 2 pm,afterwards I will head home,thanks for caring guys, now let's start shall we?"
"Okay sir" we all chorused again
" Before we begin,let me introduce you all to Ella,majority of you don't know her,she has visited here a few times,she will be working with me, in my absence she represents me,you know these old bones of mine are not getting younger,soon I will have to go behind the scene" he said as he gave Ela a smile. "Her office is adjacent to mine"
"You are welcome madam" A few of us said.
"Thank you very much guys" Ella said in the most sweetest British accent I have ever heard. " Here we are one big family and we must stay united for the continued smooth running of this establishment that spans over two decades. Its my utmost desire to work closely with you all in your various departments,so I can be abreast with what has been happening here and also get to know you all better, thank you so much once again and I sincerely look forward to working with you all" she said conclusively as we all applauded.
" Nice one Ella" My boss said aa he gave her a light pat on her back."Alright to the reason we are here,who goes first?" My boss asked as he made himself more comfortable on his chair.
" I sir" Mrs. Hassan said as she got to her feet.


***************************************************************

The presentations lasted less than three hours, just In time for our lunch break. I and Jude marched like two hungry soldiers to our cafeteria and immediately ordered for our usual menu.
" So we technically have a new boss" Jude said breaking the silence as he sent his ball of semo to the underworld, washing it down with a chilled bottle of coke.
"Looks like it" I said in reply as I rolled my fufu into a ball,dipping it into my bowl of egusi soup,I sent it to where it belonged.
" I expected the boss' daughter to be beautiful you know"
" Is there a specific way a boss' daughter should look?" I asked as I laughed,sometimes Jude could really talk stupid.
"I was expecting a more beautiful woman,I think she's fat and I have never being a fan of dark skinned girls maybe that's why I don't find her attractive" he said as he swallowed one ball after another.
"Well she's not really fat,just in between,besides she's got brains,what's beauty without brains?" I asked as I licked the soup off my fingers.
"Beauty goes with brains my friend,anyway as you said she got brains,it seems she's the one to take over the baton of the company,surely you must have brains to handle such an establishment at a young age "
" I agree with you Jude"
"But frankly speaking, she's not my spec, fair skinned ladies are the bomb!" He exclaimed.
" Your wife is proof enough right?" I asked as I stared at him.
"You can say that again,I will marry that woman over and over again guy,fair skinned,beautiful,brilliant, what else could a man ask for? Look at the beautiful kids she gave me"
"Well your wife is beautiful no doubt about that but every woman is beautiful in her own unique way"
" Tell me truthfully guy,is she your spec?"
"I don't like proud women,I see her to be that and snubish too"
" Well,I haven't noticed that,will be on the look out, I wonder why she couldn't work on her complexion with all her money"
"Jude,are you suggesting she bleaches her skin?" I asked him in surprise.
"There are other ways than bleaching,she just needs to walk into a beauty parlour,she has the money"
"Not every lady must be fair skinned Jude and can we stop talking about her?" I asked as I was tired of the same topic.
"Seems the boss doesn't have a son" Jude said in a bid to changing the topic.
"You should know better,you have been here longer than me Jude" I told him as I drank my glass of cold juice. Now I felt well satisfied, I had skipped breakfast earlier.
"I know nothing personal of our boss and he doesn't share"
"Does he even have the time for that,the man is a busy bee" I said as I got to my feet,it was almost break over. If I hadn't done that,Jude was ready to spend the entire hours of work left,gisting or will I say gossiping? Never have I met a man like him.
"Back to work" he said as he got to his feet,realizing I had given up on our discussion. Together we walked out of the cafeteria.
***************************************************************

Two heavy knocks on my desk abruptly brought an end to my nap. Looking up and standing right before me was boss lady,I hadn't heard her come into my office,she had caught me sleeping on the job.
"Mr. Abel,you were sleeping on duty" she said as she crossed her arms over her chest.
"Good afternoon Miss Ella" I decided to show courtesy by greeting since she hadn't any and besides did she knock before entering into my office or she just barged it? I could only wonder.
"You were sleeping on duty" she said again without reciprocating the greeting.
"Good afternoon " I said to her again,she could be the boss' daughter but I am also a superior staff I said to myself.
"Its unethical to sleep on the job Mr. Abel" she said sternly as she adjusted her spectacle with a finger. What's wrong with this girl? I wondered.
"And its unethical not to respond to a greeting" I told her,matching her stern look and at the same time getting a better look at her. Yes,She's no beauty queen but not bad looking either. Not a fair skinned lady but the dark complexion she had was well maintained....shinning.
"Good afternoon Mr. Abel, I won't have my staff sleeping on the job"
"Your staff?" I was forced to ask as I burst out in laughter.
"You can laugh all you want Mr. Abel but that's what you are,my staff!"
"Okay Madam but could the madam be caring enough to know why her staff is sleeping on the job?" I asked as I got up to look down at her, 'short lady' I said to my myself.
"Whatever may be wrong with you gives you no reason to sleep,I knocked severally and there was no response that was why I had invited myself in"
"Well Madam,I am no machine but a human like you" opening my drawer,I brought out a small white nylon containing my malaria drugs. "I have been down with malaria for a week now and I have been on these medications" I said as I raised the nylon higher to meet her gaze."And if you don't know,such drugs could have an adverse effect on people,I am no exception,I grew dizzy after taking them and fell asleep. If you care,you can ask around,I am one of the most hand working staff in this organization and my hard work brought me this far. I could have called in sick,stay back at home and relax but no, I came to work because I have a department to run,people are counting on me,looking up to me. That's how much I love this company, so much that I sacrifice staying back at home to be here despite being sick!" I said to her,she got the message,saw the annoyance that had welled up as I had spoken to her.
"Sorry" she muttered,did an about turn and walked out of my office,leaving her scent behind.
My God,she has been here less than a month and already being so bossy? What was in store for us in D W Anderson? For me,in the hands of this woman especially now that I may have entered her black book? Only time could tell.




The story continues shortly...

The call......

Now I am back home,a cold shower,had helped calm my nerves and a bowl of hot pap and bean cake had quieted my hunger pangs. Looking at my wall clock hung right above me, as I laid on my bed,I realized it was already a quarter to ten pm.

Picking up my phone,I checked for some missed calls from the one person I wanted to talk to most in the world right now. None from her nor anymore. Doing a quick calculation,I realized six hours had gone by since I called her and hung up on her. Really it pained me she hadn't returned the call,at least courtesy demanded that she did so......

I need to speak with her,really I do. I know the last time we spoke,she said words that were unforgettable but forgiven her I had,after all,his financial status had changed. Now,he could boast of money in his account,good clothes and shoes in his wardrobe, life had really changed and maybe at this point it wouldn't be a bad idea calling her to tell her what he has been up to.
Picking up my phone to dial Oluchi's number,my thoughts drifted to my mother,to the day I had returned home after Oluchi had broken up with me....
"Abel what happened to you? Why the long face?" She had asked immediately I stepped into the living room. None of us could ever hide our feelings from our mum,she was always very observant,it only took her seconds to know if we were troubled,just by one look at us.
"Oluchi broke up with me mum" I said as tears rolled down my cheeks,slowly I made my way to the plastic chair by the window.
'Oluchi broke up with you? Why? Did you two have a fight?" She asked standing akimbo
"Nothing of such mum" This time,she moved towards me and placed her hand on my head,lifting my gaze to meet hers.
"What happened my darling?"
"She stopped believing in me,she told me to my face I have no future"
"Oluchi said that to you?" My mum had asked,not hiding her astonishment.
" Yes mum,can you imagine that? Just because I have not being fortunate enough to get a job yet"
"Who does she think she is? God? Is your future in her hands? How dare she utter such nonsense?" My mum asked, I felt her anger blaze so much that my own skin boiled.
"Oluchi humiliated me mum,she discarded me like used tissue paper" I said as I rested my head on her bosom,crying like a baby.
"Abel my love,a girl who says such to you is not worth your tears,your future is bright,so bright that I will need a sun shade,its not how far but how well. God will give you the right woman when it's time,I can assure you of that my child" she said consolingly as she rocked me in her embrace." Its okay to cry dear but not after today,allow time to heal your wound, it was never meant to be"
"She means so much to me mum,so much"
"I know dear but its over now, in fact I suggest you leave town for a while to cool off,it will do you a lot of good,its not worth it talking about Oluchi. Henceforth, I forbid the mention of her name in this house"
"Mum,can't you help me talk to her?"
"God forbid! Does she have any regard for me? This is a girl who visited this house severally,many were the times she called me on phone just to say hello,I even built a cordial relationship with her mum,then all of a sudden she breaks my son's heart without coming to see me to discuss with me...no way Abel I won't call her,I don't want such a girl for a daughter in law,someone who is dependent on her own decisions,what she says is final, no Abel I won't call her" At that point I knew there was nothing I could possibly do,to change my mum's mind but I tried.
"Just a call mum please,do it for me,maybe she actually did...."
"You dare not make excuses for her Abel",my mum interrupted. "Even if I have a million naira worth of credit in my phone,I am not calling her. Get your things ready,on Monday you are leaving for Port Harcourt, you are spending one month with Emeka" she had said authoritatively.
"But I can't just go to PH mum,I need to look for a job"
"Put that on hold for now,you have survived all these months without a job another month of joblessness would not kill you,call Emeka and tell him you will be coming over on Monday and that's final"
I called Emeka and the following Monday I found myself with Emeka and one year later I found myself in one of the biggest accounting firms in Lagos.

The sound of a car horn brings me back to the present. Looking at the wall clock, "ten pm". I say out loud to my own hearing. I need to speak with this girl,the force behind my calling her is stronger than me. I pick up my phone,I went to my call log,attempting to dial her number,my thoughts drifted again,this time to Oluchi.


It was our first year in the University of Abuja and actually our first day attending lectures. I had been talking to a friend I had made during our registration when she walked in,beautifully dressed and looking so beautiful.
"Guy you never see woman before?" My friend had asked as he laughed
"She's beautiful Steve,can't you see?" I told him as my eyes followed her all the way to her chair.
"She's Oluchi Akpan" He told me.
"You must be kidding me,what kind of combination is that? Oluchi Akpan ? I asked not controlling my laughter at the same time stealing a glance at her as she flipped through a text book.
" I laughed too the first time I heard it bro but seriously that's her name"
" Meaning you do know her?"
"She is my sister's room mate,I met her when I visited my sister at her hostel,that was the very day she moved in"
"She is very beautiful,I will love to get to know her better"
"Need an advice? Stay clear off girls if you want to concentrate on why you are here"
"Thanks for the advice bro" I had told him,patting his back,at that moment Professor Adamu walked into the class thus ending our discussion.

**************************************************************
From that moment,my thoughts never left Oluchi and I kept looking for an avenue to get to meet her. She appeared to be shy and so reserved. After spending one week in school,I was yet to see her around any friends,male or female. She was always on her own. There was just something about her that ignited the passion in me,I was only twenty years old at that time, I had my share of female friends right from my secondary school days but Oluchi was different, whenever I saw her,I saw forever with her. Not a day passed in the week that went by that she didn't walk through my mind,so much that my brain hurt.

The perfect opportunity to speak to her eventually came. It had been in the cafeteria, I noticed her sitting alone immediately I got in,a bottle of malt on the table,she was engrossed in the book she was reading. I saw my opportunity and I grabbed it.
"Hello Oluchi Akpan" I said with a smile as I approached her.
"How did you know my name?" She asked as she looked up at me,surprise written all over her beautiful face.
"One's name can't be hidden in the school environment you know" I told her as I sat on the chair opposite her.
"I am shocked,we have never met so wondering how you got to know my name"
"Wow,so you haven't seen this guy's face before?" She stared long and hard at me,avoiding eye contact.
"I am sorry I have not,I am a fresh man"
"And so I am and we happen to be course mates,anyway I wouldn't blame you,we are over three hundred in that class of ours but I couldn't help not noticing you the first day you walked in" I said and at that moment,I hailed myself for my toasting skills wondering where I got it from. I had never made advances at a girl before.
"Sorry I just haven't noticed you,we are so many"
"Its okay, I am Abel Osita" I introduced myself as I extended my hand for a handshake and she extended her left hand as she accepted my hand shake... A pretty left handed lady I said to myself.
"You know mine already but if I must ,I am Oluchi Inibong Akpan" she said with a shy smile. I noticed the dimple on her left cheek. "Funny names right?"
"Sure" I said laughing as we still held hands.
" My mum is an Igbo lady from Imo state and my dad from Akwa Ibom"
"Now I understand" I said as we let go of each other's hand." Nice meeting you Oluchi,so you speak both Igbo and Efik?"
"Yes,very well,I speak Yoruba and French too, very well"
"Wow!" I had exclaimed in admiration. "Plus English that's five languages, you are officially a linguist " I told her as I took that moment to admire her beauty, having come to see her for the first time,face to face.
Light skinned,well structured face,a beautiful well shaped nose,her eye brows were well carved and drawn,simple but beautiful make up......beautiful in all ramifications.
"You stay in the hostel? She asked at that point and I got embarrassed because she had caught me staring.
" Yeah I do"
"Nice meeting you,you are officially the first friend I am making since I got here"
"I am flattered" I told her in all honesty" and i sincerely hope it takes us places"
"Hope so too" She had said and for the first time,she met my gaze and at that moment there was a spark, a spark that told me I had found my forever.
From that day,Oluchi and I became inseparable,we were the best of friends,each other's confidant. In class she was called 'Mrs Osita'. When we were together,they called us 'Mr and Mrs'. It was not until our second year that I had asked Oluchi to officially be my girlfriend.

I had gone to visit her at her hostel,that day I was prepared to declare my feelings to her,we were standing in her balcony holding hands when I asked "Oluchi will you be my girlfriend?" She laughed out loud as she playfully hit my chest.
"Why are you laughing?" I asked wondering if I had said the wrongest thing ever said on planet earth " I am sorry if it came out wrong Oluchi but I have grown to love you so much,I want us to be more than friends,when I see you,I see forever with you,I want this relationship to go beyond here,we are already in our second year,I am twenty one and you,nineteen,before you know it,we will be done here. I want a future with you Oluchi"
"You know why I laughed Abel?" She asked as she put her hand over my shoulder....that sweet gesture assured me I was on track.
"Why?" I asked praying it was all good not withstanding the sweet gesture.
" The question of me being your girlfriend was uncalled for because I have been your girlfriend from the moment we met"
How relieved I had been to hear those words coming from her.
"You have come to mean a lot to me Abel and I want a forever with you too besides,I am already called Mrs Osita aren't I?" She asked and we both burst out in laughter.
"I am forever yours" I said to her as I gave her a warm embrace.
"I am forever yours too" At that point,I had felt I had gotten a part of my life so right,all was left was to get done with school,service,get a good job and settle down with the love of my life. How amazing that we were each other's first love.

***************************************************************

But my forever had to end.......with a sigh,and taking my mind off my thoughts,I glance at the wall clock again,realizing it was ten thirty pm. Going back to my call log,I dialled Oluchi's number. On the fourth ring she picks up my call.
"Hello" came that sweet voice of hers.
"Hello Oluchi,its Abel" I quickly say to avoid her asking the same question that had spoilt my day earlier.
" Abel Osita?" She asked and I smiled a smile of hope.
"Yes,it's the same old Abel,you don't have my number anymore" I said in a sad voice with the aim to make her feel guilty.
"I have lost count on how many phones I have changed,sorry,how are you?" She said without waiting for me to accept her apology.
"I am fine" came my reply,full of hope,maybe we could come back together. "You?"
" Wonderful,God has been faithful,you still here in Abuja?"
"No,I have been in Lagos for three months now,I work here"
"Really? That's good,congratulations". My hope is amassing, we just could come back together.
" Thanks,its an accounting firm, I was given an accommodation and a car"
"Congratulations" she says again.
"You still with the same bank in Abuja?"
"Yes I am, in fact I was in Lagos two months ago for a training"
"Really? How I would have loved to see you again,its being about three years right?"
" I think so" she replies with an 'I don't give a heck' voice.
"How have you being,how's life?" I ask, wanting to be all chatty just like the good old days.
"Wonderful Abel,I went on a vacation to the US for three weeks,came back three days before the training I told you I came for in Lagos"
"That's nice,good to know you are doing well for yourself"
"Thanks,I rounded up my master degree program last year in Canada"
"Interesting" I mutter,now I am feeling she's doing the same thing she did three years ago,putting it to me that she's doing way better than me.
" I bought a plot of land December last year and God willing I will start building in a few months from now"
"That's lovely Oluchi,I am happy for you" I am forced to say, now she has succeeded in making me feel worthless, already regretting the call, she asks.......
"You? Hope life has been good to you too?" sensing a lot behind that question, came my reply.
"Yea it has,at least I am alive and well" I need to end the call before she hurts my feelings all over again I am saying to myself...........too late!
"Alright Abel,was nice hearing from you again, I need to go to bed now,I have a flight to catch in the morning,heading to Dubai"
"Okay"
"I appreciate your call,feel free to call me any time,we have moved on yes but should you need my assistance for anything you can always call me okay?"
"Good night Oluchi" I say slowly, hanging up the phone, not waiting to hear a word from her.

In my heart,I know it is good night forever between us.
I get on my feet, growing so mad! How could Oluchi have changed from who she was to who she is? Even after telling her about getting a job,an accommodation and a car,she still made him feel like a pauper. My mother had forbidden me to ever mention her name,now he was going to forbid himself of ever thinking about her.
Picking up his phone,he went to his contact list and deleted her number,going to Facebook,he went to his friend list,typed Oluchi Ini Akpan and clicked,'unfriend'

Now I have to move on for real with my life,what's lost is lost,I have to accept. I am only thirty years of age,I have got so many years ahead of me to be the man and more than the man Oluchi thinks I can never be. I will never think about her nor call her again,my mind is made up,so help me God!!!

What becomes of Abel? Watch our for the fast forwarded series of 'Abel's Journal'.......

My ex girlfriend on my mind...

Sitting behind my desk in the office, I close my eyes to reflect on my life over the last three months. Yes, for three months I have had the best time of my life at my place of work. I had a good relationship with my boss and my colleagues. Everyday I couldn't help but thank God for bringing me this far.

My mind flashed to my ex girlfriend, Oluchi. We had been course mates at the university of Abuja,in fact for us it had been love at first sight although at this moment I am convinced that I loved her more and still do. We had been inseparable,almost everything we did together,lecturers often jokingly told us that they were waiting for an invite to our wedding. Our families knew each other well. I was so fond of her mum and she of mine. Both our fathers had died when we were very young. Truthfully,I and Oluchi were the perfect couple in our own perfect little world!

Youth service came and we were separated by distance but united by phone calls and the social media platforms. After our youth service, Oluchi was fortunate to get a job in one of the banks in Abuja after being in the labour market for just 3 months. Unfortunately for me, getting a job had been tough! The few I saw were not well paying and were so far away from my abode,taking such would have meant me working for commercial commuters. I had to depend on my mum for everything.....my mother, my sweet,sweet, mother. Let me leave Oluchi a little for now to talk about my mother.

My mother Mrs. Osita is one strong willed woman I will forever live to admire. I am the first of four children, a younger brother and two younger sisters. Our father died twenty years ago when I was just a fifteen year old kid in my final year in secondary school, in fact, I was already writing my waec exams when my father was taken by the cold hands of death. I recall just like yesterday that I had my English Language exam the day my father died. I had returned home to see my younger siblings crying profusely and my mum uncontrollably, it dawned on me,without being told that my dear father had finished his long fight against diabetics, it was a day that would forever remain the saddest day of my life!

Mum became both parents to us, she brought us up well I must say,to be responsible adults. Being a teacher herself, she loves education so much and was so passionate about our being educated up to the university level. Today, I and my siblings are all graduates,all thanks to our wonderful super mum.

Well back to my girlfriend,as I said earlier, she's on my mind. Things had been going so well for us until three years into my joblessness. Oluchi suddenly changed her attitude towards me,she stopped picking my calls nor replying my chats even after reading them. I was forced to go to her house one faithful day which was a long distance from where I stayed. I remember I had used the last one thousand naira I had on me that day. Fortunately for me I met her at home but surprisingly her face registered not an iota of excitement at seeing me after a long while. Our conversation that day remains ever green.

"Sweetheart not even a hug?" I had asked her attempting to pull her into my arms but she withdrew.
" You didn't tell me you were coming"
"Is that why you wouldn't hug me?" I asked as I patted her right cheek playfully.
" You took me by surprise" she said as she led the way into their living room. Looking around I noticed positive changes. The living room had been repainted, the chairs changed, a nice 42 inches flat screen TV hung on the wall. It all looked so good.
"Lovely changes" I said to her as I took my seat.
"That's what money does" she said and I noticed sarcasm in her words.
"I believe you made these changes yourself?"
" Who else?" She asked as she changed the TV channel to 'zee world'

I took a moment then to to scan the living room again, just last year when he had visited , everything in the living room were crying out for a change, they were properties they had had for so many years, the TV had been a 14 inches LG TV set,all the chairs were worn out,the paint on the wall was as dirty as dirty could be but now,the living room was totally transformed. The house was built by her father so many years ago, a three bedroom bungalow in front and one at the back where they had tenants. Her father had passed away sixteen years ago living behind her and three younger sisters. Her mum too was such a strong willed woman,making sure all her daughters got educated. How he admired strong willed women,women who were not dependent on men to.....

"So what brings you here" she suddenly asked bringing me back to the present.
"Haba babe,what kind of a question is that, can't I visit my girlfriend anymore? Besides you have not picked my calls nor responded to my chats for days on end now,why babe?"
"I work remember?"
"Meaning?" I asked as I had begun to get irritated at her attitude.
" Meaning I have been busy "
"Babe its unlike you and you know it,why the sudden change?" ......I asked as I stared at her,trying to read her expression."How about mum and your sisters." I asked as it dawned on me that I hadn't asked about them.
"Mum traveled and my sisters went out" Realizing we were alone, I went to sit beside her,putting my arm over her shoulder, she didn't pull away.
" Talk to me babe,I sense a withdrawal and I am not liking it one bit"
"Abel,I said I have been busy,busy with work and that's why you can come here and appreciate the changes"
"My dear,I don't like the way you are sounding,is this about my not getting a job till now?"
"If you think so"
"Its no fault of mine and you know it darling"
"Its my fault"
"The fact that you got a job three months after our service doesn't mean everyone could be that fortunate"
"Spare me that crap Abel,how many jobs did I help you find? "
"Those? Well if I must answer your question,three jobs, I went for the interviews and you know very well why I turned them down, there's no way I could work and at the end of the month every penny is used on transportation fare,if the company was closer home why not,I gladly would have taken the job"
" Will you be the first to work far from home with little salary, are you better than those who receive little salaries?"
"So my girlfriend would have wanted me to do such a job?"
"Abel,no one is saying you should die on the job but it would have been a stepping stone,it would have exposed you to better opportunities out there, now that you have been home all this while is your life better of?"
"Babe why are you talking like this?"
"I am being factual Abel,you should have taken the job,who knows you would have made friends,perhaps you would have seen a young guy like you who stays close to your place of work that would have accommodated you,you would have been better of now I am sure of that"
"And how are you so sure of that?"
"At least you wouldn't be wearing this shirt you have had since our university days" She said irritatingly! At that point,I took my arm off her,got to my feet and went back to the chair I had left. How those words stung me,at that point,I looked at my shirt,it had been a gift from my mum to me in my third year in the university. Tears threatened to roll down my cheeks but I fought it,I couldn't dare cry in front of her.
"I never believed you could say such hurtful words to me Oluchi"
"Well its high time you are told the truth and its not because I have a job and doing well"
"You don't have to put it to my face you are doing well,I can clearly see that"
"Good you know"
"Just say want you want to say to me Oluchi and stop beating round the bush,your not picking my calls or replying my chats are actions that have spoken louder than your voice but still I want to hear your voice.
"Abel, really I loved you back in out days in school,I wanted to settle down with you as your wife but I am sorry I don't see that happening anymore, its been three years we left the university and frankly I have not seen what you have done to make your life better in three Years which is a long time"
"That doesn't mean I am a lost cause Oluchi, no one knows tomorrow"
"Please save me that anthem,our tomorrow starts today,you have to make your today good for a better tomorrow"
"You spoke in past tense,you said you used to love me,meaning the love is gone all because I am jobless"
"You know my kind of person,you know I like ambitious people because I am one,I am a goal getter and a man who wants to be a part of my life should be one too,you lack drive Abel,you seem to be too comfortable in your comfort zone"
I am not and God knows I am doing everything within my power to change my situation"
"Be a man Abel and stop being dependant on your mum,for crying out loud she has done all she can by sending you to the university"
"My mum is not complaining"
"And that's where the problem lies, in her not complaining"
"So just like that you are saying its over between us?"
"Its being over ever since I stopped picking your calls"
"Is there someone else?"
"That's no business of yours but if you must know,none at the moment,I just want to move on without you,you don't seem to have a future Abel,I am sorry"
"I don't have a future?" I asked and this time a tear rolled down my cheek.
"The truth is bitter" she said as she changed the channel. Slowly I got to my feet, not wanting her to see me cry,at that instant,I realized I was really hungry,I had left home without taking breakfast,believing I was going to have lunch with Oluchi.
"It's alright Oluchi, I wish you all the best,I will take my leave now" I said not looking at her.
"I wish you the same,sorry but its best we move on"
"No problem,good bye" not waiting for a good bye from her,I rushed out of the house and it was then the tears rolled down my cheeks

*******************************************************************************************************************
"Bros your money" the cab driver asked as I alighted. I dipped my hand into my pocket and brought out the two hundred naira change I had left after spending eight hundred naira to get to Oluchi's place. At that moment I realized I was stranded,I had hoped that Oluchi would have helped me with money for my transportation back home but that was not to be,in fact asking her in that circumstance would have only added insult to the injury.
I brought out the two hundred naira bill and gave it to the driver.
"Oga your money na N300"
"I am sorry sir that's all I have,please"!
"I don't like things like this,why use your own to spoil my own?"
"Please sir I beg you,help me,I fit be your pikin" without another word,he drove off. I was stranded I needed six hundred naira to get home. In a flash,I remembered a neighbour had his shop some distance away,the only option I had to get home was to go to his shop and join him home in his car. It took me fourtty five minutes to walk to his shop.

That was two years ago and today for the first time Oluchi came to my mind,I loved her still. I took my phone and clicked on Facebook and went to her profile. She was still as beautiful as ever, going through her pictures, I could see she was doing well for herself,glowing skin,pretty clothes and some pictures were of her abroad. There was no indication of her being married,her status was still single. Is there a chance they could ever come back together? I wondered. My mind went back to our last time together,how she washed me down with such humiliating words but I have long forgiven her for the love I still have for her.

I picked up my phone and got out her number I still left stored as 'My forever' Should I call her, I asked myself, I decided to at least for old times sake. On the second ring,she picked. "Hello Oluchi" I said with a smile,Gosh! So long I heared her sweet voice.
"Hello,who is this?" She said in that same sweet voice of hers but that sweet voice ruined my day. With no further words,I hung up on her. She didn't even have my number again. At this moment,my anger made me boil. How could Oluchi just discard me like used tissue paper? Maybe she will call back... I thought.

Its one hour now since I called Oluchi and no return call from her, at least to know who had called her.'God why can't I just let this girl go?' I asked myself.

"Should I call her again?'

The story continues ........WATCH OUT FOR ABEL'S JOURNAL, PART 3.

IT TOOK A BUCKET OF WATER


My name is Abel and I am from the Eastern part of Nigeria. Two years ago frustration chased me out of my base in Abuja to spend some time with a friend of mine in Port Harcourt. I was frustrated because I had left the university three years before and no good job was forthcoming coupled with the fact that my girlfriend then had broken up with me because to her ' I had no future'.

I was so heart broken and called up my friend in Port Harcourt, we had gone to school together and he was fortunate to have been retained in the company he had served. Whenever he goes to work in the morning, I will be left alone in the house and the more I stayed alone, the more lonely and depressed I became.

One day, I got so depressed,so I just picked up my friend's bicycle and rode out. He stays in an estate and as such, the streets are always lonely especially on working days. As I was riding down the street, I saw a well dressed man pacing by his flashy car. When he caught sight of me, he beckoned on me. I was reluctant at first,hence he was a stranger. He beckoned again. A little more thought and my mind was made. I rode towards him.

" Young man please I need your help" He said to me and at that point, I noticed his car was overheating.
"What can I do for you sir?" I had asked him
"Please as you can see my car is overheating, I came looking for someone in this estate but like I missed my way and the person's phone is not connecting, please can you help me with some water to pour into the radiator?" I didn't see it as a problem since my friend's house was just a stone throw away, so I quickly went and got a bucket of water and I helped pour it into the radiator.

The man was so thankful and as he was dipping his hand into his pocket to give me some money, I told him not to bother,that I was happy to have helped him. But when he drove off, I began to regret why I didn't collect what he had wanted to give me,dipping my hand into my pocket, I felt the only N100 bill I had in my pocket and in my life at that time. I was as at then living at the mercy of my friend who I had come to stay with for a while but all the same I decided to forget it besides, while growing up my mother taught us kids not to receive payment for kindness shown to others, what we expect people to do to us we should do likewise.

Ater spending about two months at my friend's, I returned to Abuja to continue job hunting.One year later, whilst googling the internet in search of a job,I stumbled on a company in Lagos, I had always wanted to relocate to Lagos but only if I could get a job there so I decided to try the company but the problem was that one had to submit his/her CV in person and another problem was that I had no money to transport myself down to Lagos but I rallied around and got a loan from a few friends, I called my aunt in Lagos to tell her I was coming over and would be putting up with her.

So to Lagos I came, the very day I came my aunt said she hoped I wasn't staying in her house for long. I understood because she stayed in a single room with her 2 little kids and was striving to make it as a single mother. On a Monday, I went in person to submit my CV to the company, when I gave it to the man in charge,he reluctantly took it from me and said "We will give you a call"
"That's all?" I was forced to ask.
"Excuse me?" he said to me
"I came all the way from Abuja to submit this CV in person and all I get is that we will give you a call?" I asked in shock
"Were you expecting to hear the job is yours?" The man asked sarcastically and at that very moment, I hated him, I realized he was such a rude man"Please don't spoil my day, just go and we will get back to you"
"You wouldn't even open the envelop?"
"The person to open it has not arrived please Mr. man I say again, we will call you" With that said I turned and left the office, feeling so disappointed. As I walked towards the gate a security man ran to open the gate for a black Range Rover, I admired the ride and continued walking down still feeling so disappointed.

"Hello young man" A voice said to me, it was then I realized that the Range Rovee had packed right next to me and a man sitting at the owner's corner was looking at me with a smile.
"Hello sir" I greeted him as I stared at him
"How are you?"
"I am fine sir"
"You seem to have a very poor memory young man"
"I don't understand sir"
"Really? so my face is not familiar to you?"
I looked at him for a while and I said "No"
"Can I have a bucket of water?" He asked
"I am sorry sir, I don't work here, I only came to submit my CV"
"Don't tell me you are this dumb" He said laughing out loud "What will I be needing a bucket of water for? to bath in my car?" He asked still laughing and the more confused I got."You came to submit your CV you say?"
"Yes sir"
"What's your discipline?"
"I read statistics sir"
"No wonder, your brain is for remembering figures only and not faces" he said still laughing. Why was this man wasting my time and making me confused? I asked myself getting impatient and as I was about to tell him I needed to take my leave, he called one of the security guards to take me to his office and the driver drove off.
"Who is he? I mean the man?" I asked the security guard as he took me to the man''s office.
"That's the oga na,the owner of the company"
"Are you serious?" I asked in shock as he led me into the man's office, already he was seated at his desk.
"Have your seat" He said and I took my seat opposite him. "What's your name?" He asked and I immediately told him
He picked up his intercom and dialed a number "Ahmed bring Abel"s CV to my office now please" Almost immediately the man I had submitted my CV to came in with my CV and I could see the shock on his face when he saw me sitting opposite 'Oga at the top' and I couldn't help but smile at that moment. He handed over my CV and left immediately and I watched as the boss opened my CV and read through and as he did, he nodded his head.
"This is impressive Abel, I usually hire people with a good number of years of experience but you are hired"
"I am hired?" I asked surprised
"Yes, one good turn deserves another"
"I don't understand sir"
"Exactly one year ago I was stranded on a lonely street, passer-by number one walked by and I asked for water to put into my overheated engine but he said he was in a hurry and passer-by number two came riding on a bicycle and when I made the same.................."
"Ok sir, now I remember, I am so sorry I didn't recognize the face, so sorry sir, I am really bad with recalling faces especially if I meet the person just once"
"Some people are like that" He said to me with a smile "You are hired, I will instruct the HR to do you your appointment letter"
Yes, that was how a bucket of water changed my life. I was given an accommodation and an official car, my aunt had told me that she couldn't accommodate me for long only for me to get a 2 bed room apartment and an official car that same week. I have a very cordial relationship with my boss, I love my job, it has taken me to so many states in Nigeria and about 6 African countries.

All because I did a kind deed to a man.

The story continues in " My ex girlfriend on my mind" Watch out!!!