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SIXTERS (Episode 2)
Ella Okoro
"...So you differentiate this with respect to x and substitute it into the cost function which is equation 8..." Albert said as I stared at him.
I wish I understood what he said. We were in a lecture room on campus and he took me tutorial on a course that I detested so much.
"Please...please stop Albert". I held his arm as he stopped his lecture and gave me a quizzical look.
"You can understand this Ella. It's not as difficult as you think". He said as I placed my hands on my head.
"I can't understand this. It's too hard. Why do you keep substituting...how do I even know what equation to substitute in another equation". I gave a sad look as he placed my head on his chest.
'I'm not in your department and I wasn't in your class when you were taught this. I just went through it and here am I solving it. You can also do this darling".
"No I can't".
"You can," he took my head to face him, "I believe in you. I guess you're hungry. Let's find some snacks to eat". he held my hands as we walked out of the lecture room.
We talked as we walked to the tuck shop to buy egg roll and soft drinks. Surprisingly, we saw Dean and his close friend; Annette. Okay, we all know Annette likes Dean but him? Gush! She is very pretty. She's more mannered than the so-called Natasha. Oops...he loves her!
"Dean oyinbo. How are you?" I smiled at him as he and Albert hugged.
'Hey Annette. how's lectures?"
"Hectic I must confess. But Thank God, it's our last year on campus". She smiled back.
"So lovebirds are hungry. Less I forget, when last did you hear from Natasha?"
"You know Natasha and I aren't like terms. Ask Maliha instead". I replied as Dean nodded.
"Okay then, see you lovebirds around". They waved as they left. I admired Dean's suede jacket and jean as they walked together. To me, they looked perfect!
Albert and I walked out of school but to prevent him from accompanying me home, I lied that I wanted to branch at Maliha's house.
I arrived home to see my younger sister having her lesson in the compound. I greeted them and entered the house. I perceived the spicy aroma of jollof rice. I wasn't really hungry and so I served little rice and ate.
I checked my mom but she was fast asleep. I entered my room to see my elder sister laying on my bed.
She does this only when something's bothering her.
"Lauren?" I patted her back as she turned to show her wet face. She had been crying.
"Oh God. What the hell happened to you?"
"It's Chibuike" She wailed.
"What did he do this time?" I've never said him from the first day they started dating. Spoilt brat!
"We broke up...I mean for good"
'What happened?"
"We had a quarrel and he refused to apologize. He said I should be the one apologizing for what I didn't do. He hurled insulting words at me and even slapped me. I'm not going back Ella. I better remain single than being in a miserable relationship".
"I'm sorry about that. You should learn to apologize to each other when not at fault". I said as I hugged her sympathetically.
"Does Albert apologize to you every time?"
"Yes...what?!" I released my hold of her.
How did she know I am dating Albert.
'Even if you deceive dad and mum. You know you can't to me. I know you guys are dating, so stop pretending".
"How did you know?"
'I'm your big sis remember? I've known long ago so don't be scared. Your secrets are safe with me. You see, I'm always jealous of you guys relationship even if dad and mum are not in support. You guys love yourself. That's what matters. Look at Dan and I, even after following their instructions and dating a close family friend who happen to be from a wealthy home, What did I get? A heart break!" She cried again.
"I'm so sorry dear. For me, as painful as this seems, it's actually a blessing in disguise. You're worth more than this sweet sis. Take a shower, eat, watch a movie, do something fantastic please".
"I'll do just that". She pecked me and leave the room.
I removed my clothes and change to a towel for a quick shower and nap.
* * *
It's in the night and my family and I were watching TV in the living room. Albert called but I ignored it.
"Why are you ending your call?" My mom looked at me with furrowed eye brows.
"It's Albert. It is about the business and it is too late for that". I lied.
"I hope you've not stop seeing him". My dad said watching TV.
"Yes I have".
"But he still disturbs you right?"
"Of course he does. But I told him clearly that I'm not interested".
"Good. I don't want you to end up like your sister. I'll find her another good man from among my friend's sons even if you're not interested in getting clicked".
"Hmmm...yes dad. I've got to go inside now. I have a test this week".
"Goodnight then".
"Goodnight everyone.". I sighed a relief as I entered my room. and jumped on my bed.
I called Albert immediately.
"Sugar heart". he answered.
"My love, how are you doing?"
"I'm good. Why have you been ending my calls?"
"I was busy with that stupid math...trying to get the right answer". I said as he chuckled..
"So did you get it right?"
"No". He laughed hard.
"Come on, it's not funny".
"Oh it is. I bet you, that math is not that hard". he insisted.
"Well, that's for you. As a broadcaster, I don't have to solve those magical math. It's that easy".
"Then go for it".
"Like you don't know my Parents will disown me". I let out a frown.
"I'm sorry baby. I'm missing you".
"Me too love".
"Wish you were by my side".
"Wait till I get married". I cackled.
" I wish that is now. You don't know how I dream of owning you alone. Can I take you on a date over the weekend? At least that way, I'll get to meet your Parents. I've been longing to meeting them".
"The date is a great idea but meeting my Parents is impossible. They won't be around".
"Oh, again. Why am I so unfortunate in meeting them?"
"Your bad. I love you Adorable".
"I love you too".
"What're you putting on tomorrow?"
"I haven't figured that out. Wait in anticipation". I laughed.
"Okay love. Kisses. Goodnight".
"Sweet dreams. Dream of me".
"Love you".
"Love you too. Bye!" I hung up the call and threw my phone with a look of excitement and confusion...

Sixters Comment
Albert- Ella is my greatest happiness. I'd never forget the first day I saw her. I practically froze like iceblock (laughs). I love her. When we get married, She can pursue her dream of broadcasting.

Maliha- Ella is a sweet person who'd protect whatever she loves. Even if it involves disobeying her Parents which I clearly disapprove of. I think she can sit and explain things to them. They'll understand how much she loves Albert and isn't willing to let go. I dream of finding someone who will love me like Albert loves Ella.

Dean- Aww!!! This is romantic. Sometimes I wish Ella was Natasha. I would have been the happiest man on earth!

Natasha- Their love doesn't freak me a bit. They'll later break up when Ella's Parents know of their relationship and it will be back to square one. Poor thing!

Ayodeji- II wish I can express my feelings to my girl friend just the way Albert can. I love her.

NB- Only Albert doesn't have knowledge that Ella's Parents are not in support of their relationship.
Next week's edition will be Maliha Uthman's part.
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Sixters
Characterization
Albert Christopher- Leader of the Sixters. Albert is a very ambitious youth in his mid twenties who believes that he is always right.
He's not content with his family's condition and needs money to achieve his dreams such as having his masters education in Germany.
A final year(400 level) student of Accounting in University of Lagos, Nigeria.
He is in a love relationship with Ella Okoro.

Ella Okoro- A beautiful, lovely and affluent woman in her early twenties. She hails from a very wealthy home. Her father's the manager of an accounting firm and her mother runs a boutique. She is averagely intelligent but her parent wants her to top the department of Economics. She wants to become a broadcaster but her parents disapprove of it.
She's very creative and draw lovely designs for the Sixters production. A final year student economics in University of Lagos.
She's in a love relationship with Albert Christopher but her parents doesn't approve of it because of his family background.

Natasha Kunle- Pretty, sexy, trendy, sassy and pompous. She sustained a scholarship to study Fashion designing in UK. She's from a comfortable family but claims the lifestyle of a wealthy background.
She loves Dean Okei but would never admit. Schools and lives in London, UK.

Maliha Uthman- Beautiful, lovely, fashionable, intelligent and religious lady from a comfortable and honourable Muslim family.
A nineteen year old first-class student of English and literature from University of Lagos.
She's also in her final year.
She's a creative writer, designer and also a blogger. Also designs for the Sixters Production.
Strongly believes in love and deeply searching for it. Faces challenges of pressure from her parents who wants her to be engaged.

Ayodeji Bruce- An handsome and witty bookworm in his early twenties. He's brilliant and a nerd. He spends all his time on books. He's from a wealthy background of parents who are always busy and rarely have time for him.
Faces low self esteem and does not know how to express his feelings to his girlfriend. This makes him quiet most of the time.
A final year student of Medicine and Surgery from University of Lagos.

Dean Okei- A half cast in nature. This is because he has a blood of British and Nigerian. He's very tall, fair, handsome and charming. Born to a British mother who left him since he was young and a Nigerian father who happen to be a drunkard. The bad lifestyle of his father strongly affects him emotionally.
Deeply in love with Natasha Kunle.

Sixters is a story of six lovely friends. They're also partners in the Sixters Fascinating Branding and Designs Company where the designs of complimentary cards, jotters, exercise books and customized shirts are being made.
Read as the sixters share their life story in terms of friendship, love, relationship, family, dreams and so on.




Chapter One
Albert Christopher
"This month's sale has been a huge success and this means more profit to our business because people are beginning to get aware of The Sixters Fascinating designs. Thanks to the awesome designers amongst us; Maliha's blog and the helpful fashion ideas from Natasha. Suprisingly, our profit margin has been increased to more than 30% this February". I said as everyone cheered. We were at the Sixters board room where we do hold our meetings. Everyone was present except Natasha who happened to also be present through the laptop courtesy to Skype.
"I guess it is an achievement worth celebrating along with a fruity wine". I said as I reached over for some glasses of cups and popped the wine.
"So only me do not get to taste the wine". Natasha said through the laptop as she kept examining her red-painted nails.
"I can keep yours till you get back to Nigeria". Dean said.
"Oh... whatever". She replied.
"Natasha, I called you several times this morning but you didn't pick".
"Last time I checked Dean, we're in a business meeting and so please don't bring personal matters into it. Talk to you guys later. Bye Albert! Bye Maliha".
"Bye Natasha" Maliha replied as Ella scoffed at her.
"Bye". I hang up, closed the laptop and patted Dean's shoulder.
I poured the wine into the cup and held Ella's share. She was chatting with Maliha and I stared at her. She looked very beautiful in a pink gown and brown-leathered hat. I did not fail to notice the pink lipstick on her thick shapy lips and the eyeliner. She drew carefully on her lovely eyes just the way I love it. I couldn't keep my eyes off her as she smiled, talking to Maliha. Maliha signalled her of my stare and she walked over to me.
"For how long have you been staring at me?" She asked grinning widely.
"For as long as I noticed your captivating presence" I smiled giving her the cup of wine.
"Why didn't you call me this morning?"
"I'm sorry love. I didn't have credit. But I messaged you on whatsapp".
"Like that is like hearing your voice". She rolled her eyes.
"Don't tell me you're angry".
"Of course not. Have you checked the scholarship list?"
"Is it out?" I ask shocked.
I wrote the scholarship exam and I've been yearning for being among those chosen.
"Yes love. I think you should".
"What can I do without you. You look beautiful sweet. I'm sorry for just commenting".
"Oh thanks". She blushed
"Oh yeah stop blushing. You've heard that a million times... " Maliha chuckled as she interrupted us.
"... okay lovebirds, you have to depart 'cos Ella and I have somewhere to go". She said dragging her.
"Okay then, talk to you later. Love you!"
"Love you too" she replied.
"Let's get going Dean".
"How about Ayodeji?" Maliha asked as we all turn to look at him who is busy with his phone. We almost forgot he existed there.
"Ayodeji?!"
"Yes... Oh!" He answered absent-minded."Sorry guys. I've been skimming through a text book. I've got test tomorrow". He replied
"So ain't you coming along with us?"
"My driver's coming. I'll just remain here" He gave a weak smile as we all turned and headed our way. Maliha placed her hands over Ella's shoulder as they walked in front while Dean and I followed at the back.
"I don't know Albert, the way Natasha behaves towards me. It's like I don't exist despite knowing that I love her. It's like everyone hates me. My mom never took care of me, my drunkard dad doesn't care about me and the only person I love with all my life doesn't want me in her life". Dean said almost in tears.
This is one big thing I hated about hanging around Dean. He keeps on lamenting about his life. Come on, he's cute and handsome. I know the way ladies stare at him when we walk. Why Natasha? Oh well, he loves her.
"You don't have to keep lamenting. You can't force people into your life. Be yourself. Optimize your potentials. They're a lot of good things awaiting you". I lectured Dean for the millionth time. I knew I'll do the same tomorrow.
"Okay, but I can't give up on Natasha. I'll keep struggling even with the last drop of my blood".
"And you remain single for life?"
"Come on. It's easy for you because you've got your girl. You've got Ella you love a lot and she loves you back. I have the believe that Natasha will confess her love for me".
"Maybe in your dreams guy. I've got to leave. See you later". We shook hands and I entered the nearest taxi home.
I wasn't good at listening to people's rant...mostly on relationship issues. Ayodeji was better with Dean. He was a good listener. Maybe that's the reason Dean prefer to hang out with him.
* * *
Staring at the rickety unpainted house in front of me made my stomach wobble. I didn't even know what'd be for lunch.
At the veranda, I saw my two little brothers struggle over a plate of eba and okazi soup. Hmm! The soup looks appetizing. At least we get something nice for lunch today. I entered the living room to see my Mother serving.
"Eh! Today na your lucky day Albert. Chibuzor don talk say e go chop your share" My Mother said as she served My father.
"Good Afternoon Ma. Good Afternoon Sir. Chibuzor no try am o. Wetin you wan mey I chop".
"Welcome jare. But no meat o" .
"Eba sha dey. Thank you Mama". I replied as I entered the kitchen and reached for my food. After eating, I entered my room to search for the list of names. My hands shook nervously as I went through the list praying silently. I went over the list for several times but still couldn't see my name. I began to sweat and didn't even know when I started to cry.
I heard a knock on the door and My father came in.
"Did they award you the scholar... Why are you crying like a child?" he asked confused.
I couldn't stand the tears. I thought the scholarship was a way of achieving my dream of schooling abroad.
"I lost the scholarship Papa".
"I told you what pays you in life. See your elder brother Nnamdi. He understands that it is burdensome and expensive to sponsor him in school and he went for handwork. Now he is making money and even helping us financially. After we have finished wasting our money for you on school, you now insist on going abroad again for Masters. Where is the money? You're on your own o!" he said and stormed out.
I laid on my bed and cried. I felt bitter and then I thought of Ella; the love of my life. She was the only one that could make me feel better. I remembered I didn't have airtime and so I borrowed from my network provider. I dialled her number and she picked immediately.
"Hello love".
"My love, are you crying?" She asked nervously.
"I lost the scholarship love. I feel like a failure".
"No you're not Sweetheart. I'll be there in less than thirty minutes. Please stop crying. I hate it when you do so. I love you".
"I love you too". I sobbed on the phone.
"I'm on my way now". She said and hung the call.
I laid on my bed with tear soaked face awaiting Ella...
The Sixters Comment

Ella- My lovely Albert. I feel so sad by what is happening to him. He's the best thing that have ever happened to me. I wish life would turn around for him. (cries).

Maliha- Albert is a very smart and innovative guy. He's even the initiator of The Sixters Fascinating Designs. I know the future holds great things for him. He only got to be patient.

Dean- All I can say is that Albert lack contentment. I mean he's got lovely family even though they're not well-to-do. The main thing is that they love him and will stand by him at all times. And more so, he's got Ella who love him and will always stand by him no matter what. So what please? He's in his final year for God's sake and having one's Masters abroad does not guarantee success in life.
Please cut that thrash. Tears? Oh My Gosh! Please grow up Albert.

Natasha- I don't pity Albert. It's Ella who got herself hooked with such a wretched guy. Mtschew!

Ayodeji- What can I say? I've got test tomorrow please!

Next edition will be that of Ella Okoro. To enjoy more of these;
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