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Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. - Literature (3) - Nairaland

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Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Nobody: 5:26pm On Jul 31, 2019
ghost mode deactivated thanks for the update MTN is here,that means there is service oh

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 8:42pm On Jul 31, 2019
***

Things turned out differently after the drop-off. She invited him in to eat or drink something. That led to him playing a video game with her brother, and discussing politics with her father. An hour quickly passed by before he set out.
"Hope you aren’t late for your party," she said as she escorted him to his car. They both walked slowly, with awkward hands in pockets. “I didn’t think it would be that long.”
He glanced at his watch. "It’s fine. The party is later in the evening but I have to get the drinks iced. I really had fun. Your mum's home-made shawarma was really good and it was nice meeting your family." He laughed softly and shook his head. "Your brother is a clown."
Eliana rolled her eyes. "You're telling me. He is the Chief Entertainer at home."
"He’s fourteen right? Don’t worry, he will outgrow that in due time."
She waved her hand. "Oh, I'm not worried." They were now at his car. "Thanks for dropping us and coming in. And Merry Christmas once again.”
"You too dear." He got into his car, made a U-turn and drove off.
As expected, her mother was interested in who he was and how they met. The excitement came to a crashing halt when she found out he was engaged.
"He seems like a good boy," her father said. "Make sure you bring someone like that home. Not all those riff-raffs on the street. But anyway, I trust you."
Eliana smiled. She knew better than to trust solely on her instincts. After what happened with Kene, she had learnt to trust God when it came to relationships and other aspects of her life. She wouldn't deny she enjoyed Oba's company, and how funny and easy-going he was. He was the kind of guy she would love to get to know and maybe end up with. But she wasn't going to let her feelings run ahead of God, especially towards someone who was engaged. There was no way they could be together. Plus, she had her concerns about his alcohol drinking habits. Fingers crossed the drinks she saw were really for his friends, not him. Whatever the case was, he wasn't her problem. She wasn’t going to spend time thinking about him before unholy thoughts flooded in.
Later that night, as she collapsed on her bed after tidying up the kitchen, she put down thoughts in her journal:
No matter what happens, whether I love a man or not, get married or not, my love for Christ isn't going to be shaken. I know nothing can be compared to my love for Him. It’s amazing how much I have grown spiritually in the last few months, and how I have come to know Him. Even in the coming year, I want to grow more in love with Him.
Romans 8 came to mind. It was one of her favourite verses, with words on how inseparable she was from the love of Christ. Smiling, she wrote, I have discovered God's awesome love for me and the knowledge of it makes my heart swell with love for Him. Sometimes I have shivers just thinking about it.
Nothing can shake Your love for me. I would love and serve You with everything within me regardless of what the future brings. And I have a feeling it’s going to be exciting.


P.s You can get the full book on Okadabooks:
https://okadabooks.com/book/about/once_upon_a_first_love/19766

Hardcopies are also available smiley

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 8:42pm On Jul 31, 2019
Shola2019:
ghost mode deactivated thanks for the update MTN is here,that means there is service oh

Lol... nice smiley
Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Ann2012(f): 8:48pm On Jul 31, 2019
This tori just dey burst my brain

Well done OP

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by everton4life(m): 9:14pm On Jul 31, 2019
TopeOmotosho:
Please would love if you could say something to show you're following smiley It kind of feels like I'm alone here. Seeing over 700 views and very little comments.

Plus if you're enjoying it please don't keep the story to yourself. smiley Share and invite friends grin

At the bolded trust me,dear. I know how it feels like. But i just continued posting. Just be consistent and you'll gather readers in time. Lovely story you got here smiley

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Smith06: 11:36pm On Jul 31, 2019
Emex100:


thanks dear. looks like you are the only one that loves me here

I'm here.

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by PrudySara(f): 11:24am On Aug 01, 2019
Not really, there are others too
Emex100:

thanks dear. looks like you are the only one that loves me here

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by PrudySara(f): 11:25am On Aug 01, 2019
Enjoying this story... thanks O.P

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by bossy512(f): 11:32am On Aug 01, 2019
Thanks for the updates

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by izaray(f): 11:39am On Aug 01, 2019
Making more sense

Thanks for the update

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 2:02pm On Aug 01, 2019
[/b]Happy New Month![/b]

***

At past two in the morning, Peju snuggled close to Abdul, loving the feel of his naked skin against hers, and the smell of his cologne. She ran her palm across his hairless chest as he snored lightly.
She tried to console her guilty conscience, saying that this was what she wanted. The moment they had shared was better than she had ever dreamed, much better than they’d ever had too.
It was obvious he was more experienced. He understood her curves, and knew what buttons to touch at each point in time. The truth of him learning with other women came knocking, but she refused to let it ruin her day. The fact was she loved him, they were together, and that was all that mattered.
"Merry Christmas," she whispered once again, although Christmas was two hours gone. She kissed him on the lips, just like she did before their dinner party started. It had gone well and when it ended, they cuddled on the couch, talking. One thing led to another, and before she knew it, they were on their way to his bedroom.
"This is the best gift you could have given me. This and the gift hamper filled with my favourite things,” he said, chuckling. “Thank you, Habeebah." He turned to his side to look into her eyes. "I love you."
"I love you too.” So much that it hurts. “I'm sorry if I made it seem like I was ashamed of our relationship or the love we share. I'm not. In fact --" She gathered the sheets around her and stood on the bed, "I want to shout it out loud. I love you, Abdul Layeni!" He laughed, pulling her down into his arms.
"I don't doubt that you love me. The way you showed it tonight is proof enough.”
Peju covered her face from embarrassment. "Please, don't say that."
He removed her hand gently. "What's that phrase again? Naked but not ashamed?"
She nodded.
"There shouldn't be any secrets between us. We are not just lovers but friends. We can share anything with each other. We can cry together. We can laugh together. But no lies. No secrets. No embarrassment. Deal?"
"Deal."
He shifted away from her. "Now to your Christmas present. I wanted to wait till next year, but then I think this is the perfect time."
Is he going to propose? Peju was ready to say yes. She suppressed her excitement and doubts as he opened a drawer by his bed and pulled out a small box. Yes! Her mother would be so happy. It was until he turned that she felt her bubble burst. It looked nothing like a ring box.
"Here's your present."
She took the rectangular box from him, raising a brow in curiosity and opened it. It was a car key. She looked up to find his eyes on her. He looked concerned and doubtful. Hence, she chose her words carefully.
"You bought me a car?" she said, careful to suppress the disappointment in her voice.
"Yes. Don't reject it. It’s a Christmas gift. I can't stand the thought of you jumping buses. I want to take care of you, Peju. Let me."
Even though she told him not to, he had gone ahead to buy her a car. Peju had to mentally assure herself that he was trying to be sweet. He hadn't done it to show off his money or to make her feel incapable. He did it because he loved her. "Thank you, Abdul. I appreciate you for taking care of me. I have to confess something though. I don't know how to drive."
Abdul laughed as he drew her close to him. "That's not a problem. I will help you all the way. That's why I'm here."

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by queenitee(f): 2:40pm On Aug 01, 2019
Well, I'm confused with all these people cheesy grin

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 2:41pm On Aug 01, 2019
queenitee:
Well, I'm confused with all these people cheesy grin

Haha.. why confused?
Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by izaray(f): 2:54pm On Aug 01, 2019
Cha!! Love is so sweet, this particular update just dey burst my brain anyhow cheesy

OP more ink to ur pen jare

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Ann2012(f): 3:19pm On Aug 01, 2019
izaray:
Cha!! Love is so sweet, this particular update just dey burst my brain anyhow cheesy

I just dey imagine say I be Peju wink

OP you are mouthed jor cool

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by izaray(f): 3:40pm On Aug 01, 2019
Ann2012:


I just dey imagine say I be Peju wink

OP you are mouthed jor cool
Lol, you know that feelings when you're inlove with the right person, ur belle go just dey sweet u anyhow cheesy

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 4:32pm On Aug 01, 2019
izaray:
Cha!! Love is so sweet, this particular update just dey burst my brain anyhow cheesy

OP more ink to ur pen jare

Thank you ma smiley

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 4:34pm On Aug 01, 2019
CHAPTER SEVEN


Halimat dreaded the thought of her parents’ New Year’s party. Her whole family would be there, and while the urge to see her baby niece was tempting, she wasn't going to give in. She wasn't in the mood to indulge her family's piteous looks and their need to offer unsolicited advice.
At the spark of fireworks, she rolled her eyes; her heart calming to a normal pace. Knock-outs and loud music. That was pretty much what she had to put up with most of the day. As usual, everyone was hyped about the start of a new year, but for her, there was nothing exciting about it. There was no change in her life. Nothing to celebrate about. So what was all the fuss for?
It was thick in the air - the hope for a fresh start, a new beginning. For some, they wanted marriage, and others, childbirth or promotions. Some believed their lives could change, the past easily forgotten. There was always the excitement of setting New Year resolutions and writing down goals to achieve, right until the next few weeks came rolling in, the plans forgotten or deemed impossible to do. Halimat snorted. It was all useless. The only change possible was ordained by God. At least, that was what she chose to believe. And God wasn't interested in her, so what was the point of hoping.
She set aside her laptop and tip-toed her way to the bathroom. The tiles’ coolness crept through her feet. She settled into a warm bath quickly to unwind. On most days, she loved her company but right now, staying home alone on the first day of the New Year made her feel lonely. Her other option was to drive down to a nearby pizza joint and get food. There, she would watch people from a corner and make up stories of their lives. It was one of her many pastimes.
If one looked closely, you could tell if a person was happy or not. And in entirety, Halimat could say thirty percent of the people she came across were on the verge of depression. Unfortunately, she was in that category as well. Out of her bath, she fought back this truth as she got dressed and hurried out of her flat.
Are you happy?
Dr Alakija's question definitely triggered something in her. Why he thought to ask was also a mystery. She lived a fun, exciting life to the outside. Her looks, on point to match. But deep down in her was utter confusion. And she thought she had done a good job of covering it up.
The pizza place still had a couple of customers but Halimat didn't have to queue long to get her order. As she sat close to the window, she glanced at the few people there. On her left, a group of friends were hanging out and laughing at a seemingly funny joke. A guy and girl were holding hands in a corner, whispering to each other. The girl could barely contain herself, red-faced and flustered. Also, three noisy ladies were yapping off. There was so much tension in their space, and focus. Hmm, Naija women. Most likely talking about men.
Halimat laughed. She pulled out her phone to attend to Instagram posts in need of likes. All to while away time she wished she didn't have.
“Happy New Year to me,” she murmured to herself.

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 5:27pm On Aug 01, 2019
izaray:
Lol, you know that feelings when you're inlove with the right person, ur belle go just dey sweet u anyhow cheesy

Yes o grin grin

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 6:16pm On Aug 01, 2019
***

He turned off the car ignition and welcomed the silence. “Babe, no doubt about it, your car has seen better days. You should consider selling it and getting another one." Like a child, Nene groaned, folded her arms and stomped her foot on the ground. "Hubby, why is this happening to me? We just started the new year for crying out loud. Do you know how stressful it will be for me to get public transport to work early in the morning?”
Oba stepped out of the car and wiped the sweat from his brow. He was in no mood for any more complaints. It was a hot Saturday afternoon and he wanted something cold to drink, and maybe some food as well.
Like that shawarma I had at Eliana's house. "See, you're getting yourself worked up for nothing. We’ll have to change the engine if worst comes to worst. In the meantime, take my car to work and I will sort myself out.” He sighed. “ Right now, I'm hungry. Abeg, let's get some food."
She strolled up to him and threw her hands around his neck, planting little kisses all over his face even with the sweat trickling down his face. "Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. You're the best soon-to-be-husband in the world! Biko, what do you want to eat? I haven't gone to the market for you though."
Say what?! “It’s fine. Let's just go somewhere nice and get something to eat then you can go to the market." They did just that. After he was fully satisfied, he took her to the market, waited till she was done shopping then dropped her at home. He promised to drop the car Sunday evening. On his way home, Oba recalled his last conversation with Timilehin.
"Yes! I forgot to tell you, I met Eliana's parents and her brother. They were nice."
"Met them where?"
"Their house. I bumped into her at the supermarket and took her home. She invited me in and that's how I met her family. She's a nice girl, Timilehin."
"I don't like how you went to her house. Couldn't you say no?"
Oba laughed. Was his cousin really jealous? "You know I'm engaged right? So you don't have anything to worry about."
"I better not."
He laughed. Timilehin really liked her; it was obvious. He just needed to make the next move. He didn’t understand why his cousin felt the need to pray about it when he already liked her. It all seemed so unnecessary to him, but he thought to leave it at that.
Later in the evening, Oba was watching TV when his mother called. He hadn't spoken to her since December. She had refused to pick his calls. He eagerly answered, longing to hear her voice.
"Good evening Ma… Yes, I'm fine and you? And Dad?”
"Fine, fine. How's Nene?" she asked.
Oba was surprised his mother was asking after her. "She's fine. She’s excited about the wedding." She really was. Conversations on the wedding dress and bridal party gowns had started with the designer, down to the details. She wanted to sort out other things, but he kept stalling, hoping he’d someday get the go-ahead from his mother.
"Okay." He heard her sigh. "I want you to know you have my blessings to marry her."
He stood. "Really? What made you change your mind?"
"Your father spoke to me. Oba, you know I love you and only want what's best for you. If Nene -” he could sense his mother's hesitation, “If Nene is God's will for you, then who am I to oppose?"
He rubbed his head with a bare palm. Still in awe at what was happening. "Wow. Thank you Ma. I really appreciate it."
"You're welcome. Love is sweet, especially when you're with who God wants you to be with. It may not be smooth all the way but you will be confident you have God's approval. I hope you have that, Oba." There was a brief pause, as though to allow her words sink in. Then she said, "We would talk later. Enjoy the rest of your day."
"And you too, Ma."
The line went dead, leaving Oba dazed. Whatever his father had said to her, Oba had to thank him. He sat back down. His father was one of the few men of honour he knew. He was a man of integrity and his mother greatly respected him. Oba had seen that much growing up, seeing how they related with one another.
Would Nene respect me too in old age?
He didn't have an answer and it bothered him. And the concept of knowing God’s will concerning marriage was still far-fetched. He believed it was a matter of personal choice. There couldn't be just one person God intended an individual to be with when there were billions of people in the world. And what if a person's spouse died? Did that mean they had no hope of ever remarrying?
What had Timilehin mentioned the other day?
"Guy, are you high? Since when do people marry wife because she's an okay person."
Oba knew there were a lot of things he did that were wrong but that didn't make him less of a good person. He paid his tithes, sometimes. He read his Bible every once in a while, as much as he could, but did that qualify him as a bad person? Why would it? Did it make him a candidate for hell?

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Smith06: 7:14pm On Aug 01, 2019
What a nice story this story is, I guess I arrived the party late. Nice work @tope omotosho

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Eziokwugbaoto: 8:02pm On Aug 01, 2019
PrudySara:
mercyymai DemiKOL cassbeat Lilly4endu Smith06 queenitee noni1 Damibiz greatlinda SkimpleD Eziokwugbaoto NaijaTushboy Emex100

Oya coman grab a seat

Thanks Dear.
Let me get started already.

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by Nobody: 8:42pm On Aug 01, 2019
Your story is interested ma,I am learning a lot about marriage from it. Thumbs up God bless

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 10:49pm On Aug 01, 2019
***



"Aren't we too old for sleepovers?" Peju took out clean bedding and handed them to Eliana to make the bed.
"Says who abeg?”
Peju remembered when she went to Ibadan to visit her cousins. They had sleepovers but not necessarily as fun as Eliana was making it sound. They were children and had to sleep whenever the adults told them to.
"Yeah, but when I was much younger. My dad used to take me to my cousin’s place."
The bed made, Eliana sat down and picked up her phone. "You don't talk about your dad much. Why?"
Peju lifted her shoulders in a shrug. "There's really nothing to talk about. He left my mum and I when I was twelve. He kept coming and going, but he had another woman on the side who never had kids for him. I don't know the full story but he died when I was twenty. That's all."
"Did you guys have a close relationship?"
"Kind of. He bought things for me. Took me out. Nothing really special."
"So you don't miss him then."
"Hmm, your questions plenty o. No, I don't miss him. He wasn't there for me to build a solid relationship with him. Anyways, I’m already used to not having a father-figure in my life so I’m good."
Eliana got up and embraced her briefly. "And you have God."
A familiar feeling of guilt came knocking. It had been a constant visitor for a few days. "Yes, I have God. He's always been there for me, even in times I was too hurt to notice."
"You sound sad, Sis. Is anything wrong? You know you can talk to me."
Peju shook her head and stood from her bed. "There's nothing. I just have a slight headache." Now you're getting used to lying as well? "What do you want to eat? It's getting late." She took the dirty bed linen and pillowcases from the floor and tossed them in her laundry basket a few feet from the door. Then she got her phone from her jeans pocket to check for messages from Abdul. "I have fried turkey stew. We can boil rice or eat plantain with egg. I also have vanilla ice-cream."
"Would you take pain killers?"
Peju raised a brow, confused and nursing disappointment at the same time. "For?" There was no message from Abdul.
"For the headache?"
"Oh! No, I will be fine. Have you decided on what to eat?"
Eliana looked like she wanted to ask something else but nodded and said, "Egg, plantain and turkey stew. Then we can have ice-cream for dessert while we watch a romantic movie."

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Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 3:40am On Aug 02, 2019
Humbleness:
Your story is interested ma,I am learning a lot about marriage from it.
Thumbs up
God bless

Thank God. God bless you too smiley
Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 9:49am On Aug 02, 2019
***

His Glory Centre was brimming with first-timers, committed members, frequenters and once a year churchgoers who wanted to rejoice at making it to the new year. It was the first Sunday and the church was having a single festive service instead of their usual two. There was a lot of dancing and celebrating, and to that effect, a lot of women had taken extra care with their dressing and make-up.
Pastor George always made the call for single brothers and sisters to dance forward in the manner they would dance on their wedding day, after which he prayed for them. For the special day, Peju had donned on a burgundy iro and buba ensemble with a silver head-tie, while Eliana had gone for an off-shoulder yellow lace gown.
Yesterday, as they watched The Duff, a romantic comedy, Eliana had voiced out her thoughts on being in a relationship.
"You know, when I remember the story of Isaac and Rebekah in the Bible I smile. Do you know how she must have felt when Abraham's servant just came out of nowhere and told her family he's there to carry her to her husband's house? Rebekah may never have expected it, but she was ready. That's how I want mine to be like. It’s another reminder that God has me in mind and I shouldn't be worried at all."
“Are you still hurt about Kene?”
Eliana shook her head and scooped her ice-cream in her mouth. “At all. I’ve moved past that.”

Peju thought it was a good time to inform Eliana of her relationship with Abdul but she had chickened out. Knowing Eliana, she would ask questions and make her feel more guilty. She would try to talk her out of the relationship. That couldn’t happen.
"Hi Peju."
Peju distanced herself from her thoughts and looked up to find Femi staring down at her, looking good in his suit. "Happy new year."
"Happy new year to you." She rose up. "Thank God for His grace and mercy.” She cringed inwardly, feeling like a hypocrite as she said those words. She didn't deserve His grace and mercy, not after what she had done. She could imagine God shaking His holy head at her, probably in disgust. The thought made her cringe.
"Yes, He's been good to us. You look good by the way. Your boyfriend is doing a great job taking care of you. I hope we get to see him soon."
"See who soon?" Eliana asked as she headed their way. She was holding a half-empty carton of mini juice packs for the Children’s Church.
Peju shook her head, hoping Femi would get the message to stay quiet. Sadly he didn't understand.
"Peju's boyfriend.” Femi said, turning his gaze to Eliana. “Have you met him?"
Eliana's eyes narrowed at him. "Peju has a boyfriend? Since when?"
Femi darted his eyes at Peju, understanding her prior actions. He looked back at Eliana and shook his head. "I er-- I may be wrong but I just assumed she had a boyfriend."
"Peju, is it true? You have a boyfriend?"
What's the point of hiding? "Yes."
Eliana blinked twice. "Wow. How come you didn't tell me?"
Femi decided it was best he excused himself. He offered Peju an apologetic smile while leaving her to deal with Eliana’s look of betrayal.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
Peju gestured for them to sit down. "I didn't want you to feel bad. You wanted me to go out with Femi and I wasn't interested. I know you really want a relationship too --"
"And you felt I’d be jealous?” She shook her head in wonder. “Seriously? What kind of friend do you think I am, Peju? How can you think such a thing?"
Peju was frantic. She didn't mean for her to think that way. "No. I know you love me as a sister. It’s just… ” She sighed. “I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner."
"So who's this guy that you're hiding from me?"
Here we go. "Remember my boss that dropped me off at your place? Abdul Layeni?" Eliana nodded. "He's my boyfriend. We’ve known each other since secondary school. Actually, we used to date. His family won the visa and they travelled out. He came back months ago, found me and told me about his late uncle’s company and if I was interested in a job. We just started dating not long ago."
"Wait, so your boss is your boyfriend."
Peju nodded.
Eliana looked confused. "I still don't understand why you didn't trust me enough to tell me. What are you hiding?”
“Nothing.”
“I’ve seen the guy so it’s not like he’s a dwarf or something.”
Peju laughed.
Eliana narrowed her eyes. “Is he already married? Has kids?”
“No! And stop asking too many questions,” Peju said, hoping to dissuade her from digging deeper.
“He's not a Christian?"
"What has that got to do with anything?"
"He’s not a Christian? Peju! Doesn’t the concept 'unequally yoked' mean anything to you?"
"That's for marriage."
"And your relationship isn't heading there?"
Peju sighed in defeat. "Yes, he’s a Muslim. And I love him. Shebi you’re a love fanatic, always talking about how amazing and beautiful it is to love and be loved. Eliana, he's an amazing guy once you get to know him. He's not bad. And he has no objections to me going to church if that’s what you’re concerned about."
Her friend shook her head in disbelief. "Peju, you're buying the lies you're telling yourself."
"Don't insult me. They aren't lies. Why don't you get to know him first before being judgemental?"
"I'm sorry if it looks like I'm judging you too. I'm not. I just need you to be sure you're making the right decision. Have you prayed about it?"
Peju rolled her eyes. She had seen that question coming. "What is it, Eliana? Every time, it's have you prayed about this, have you prayed about that. It's my choice. I get it, you're overreacting because of what happened between you and Kene. But guess what? I’m not you so back off."
Stop talking.
Peju ignored the soft warning. "You’ve suddenly turned to this over-spiritual girl who is afraid to make mistakes and is waiting for God to direct you on every small thing. My dear, God isn't going to come down from His throne with thunder clouds and tell you who to marry. So stop dreaming, my friend. Wake up and smell reality."
Finally. The load was off, and the relief? It felt good. Eliana stared at her, dazed and eyes welled up. She quickly wiped them with back of her hand; her make-up smudged in the process.
Peju knew she had to apologise for hurting her but her lips remained shut.
"I didn't know you felt that way. I'm sorry."
Apologise.
Again, Peju ignored the soft voice.
"I just felt it was better to --" Eliana pressed her lips together and shook her head. "You know what? Forget it. Let me quickly drop this at the church office and we can go back to your house."
Before Peju could say anything else, her friend hurried out of the church, her head hanging low.

2 Likes

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by izaray(f): 11:03am On Aug 02, 2019
Thanks for the update

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by bossy512(f): 11:30am On Aug 02, 2019
I pray Peju will not regret her action, thanks for the update

1 Like

Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 2:19pm On Aug 02, 2019
izaray:
Thanks for the update

You're welcome Izaray smiley
Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 2:20pm On Aug 02, 2019
bossy512:
I pray Peju will not regret her action, thanks for the update

Well... Let's see what will happen grin thanks for reading
Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by TopeOmotosho(f): 2:49pm On Aug 02, 2019
***

Eliana brushed away the tears from her cheeks. How could she say such hurtful things, God? Is she right? Am I short-changing myself from being in a relationship?
Her answer came swiftly.
My plans for you are good all the time. No matter what may come My plans for you shall prevail. Rest in My Love.
She felt His peace settle in her heart and mind. Thank you, God. With eyes closed, she let out a slow, cooling breath. No, she wasn't making a mistake waiting on God.
But what about Peju? Her friend was in a relationship with a man who didn't believe in Jesus. What if they got married? What if they had kids together?
[iG]od, what do I do? How do I help her when she doesn't want to listen to me?[/i]
Eliana had sensed something was wrong with Peju for awhile now. She could never have connected it to her having a boyfriend - a Muslim one at that.
Lord, please. Speak to me.
"Eliana, are you ready?" Peju called out to her from the kitchen. "The food is ready."
"I'm coming!" She packed the rest of her things in Dimeji’s old backpack and dropped it in the living-room before joining Peju in the kitchen. They hadn’t said a word to each other since the argument, even in her car.
"I made your favourite. Fried-rice with fried turkey." Peju scooped a large serving of rice on two different plates. "There's coleslaw in the fridge. You can help serve that."
Soon, they were seated at the dining table, eating in silence. Peju kept stealing glances at her before she finally blurted, "I'm sorry about what I said earlier on. I shouldn't have said all those things to you. I was just being defensive."
Eliana nodded. "I understand. You must really like this guy."
Peju's eyes lit up immediately.
How did I miss this, Lord? How did I miss her new-found happiness? [/i]She just assumed since Femi wasn't in the picture, no other guy was.
"I really do. Let me gist you about how we met." Eliana smiled as her friend started the story. She laughed a few times at how firm Peju had been back then. "That's how it all began. Truth is, I don't see myself with anyone else. That’s why I need you to support me Eliana. Not judge or criticise me."
Eliana swallowed hard.
"How do you want me to support you?"
"Meet up with him. And give me your blessing."
"You're a wonderful friend to me, Peju, and I love you as a sister. I've had your back on numerous occasions as you have had mine. I'm not trying to be vengeful or anything, but I can't support you in your relationship. I have no bad thoughts about Abdul because I don't even know him. But I cannot support your relationship. I pray God opens your eyes to see the truth." As Eliana spoke, the joy on her friend's face faltered.
"Are you sure you’re not jealous?"
[i]Am I?
"No. I would be happier to see you in a relationship God approves of."
"Fine." Peju picked up her spoon and resumed eating. "Let's finish and leave so I can drop you at home. I still have to get my hair done for work tomorrow."
Eliana picked up her spoon too. On the outside, she was playing with grains. On the inside, she battled thoughts that questioned her relationship security.
Jealous? I’m not jealous. I can’t be jealous… right?


***

This comes to an end of the preview/read of Once Upon a First Love.

Thanks for reading thus far. I appreciate your comments and encouragement. You guys rock!

Guess what? There are still 16 more chapters to go smiley Yaay!

So,

Would Peju end up with Abdul?
Would Eliana finally get a guy?
What's going to happen with Femi?
What's the mystery about Halimat and what role would she play?

There's an interesting plot twist and a whole lot of suspense still to come! Hope I've watered your appetite grin

You can read the full book on Okadabooks via this link:
https://okadabooks.com/book/about/once_upon_a_first_love/19766

Hardcopies are also available if you're interested plus free pdf study guide of Once Upon a First Love. You can reach out to me:

IG: @topeomotoshowrites
Email: Topeomotoshowrites@gmail.com
Facebook: Omotosho Temitope

I also have free stories you can read on my website: www.lifegodandlove.com


(Plus if you've read Once Upon a First Love... We can have a full blown discussion here grin)
Re: Once Upon A First Love Story By Tope Omotosho. by sheycrown(f): 3:07pm On Aug 02, 2019
Hi Topeomotoso, how else can I get the book please...... I can not remember my username and password on okadabooks.

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Where Can I Get 48 Laws Of Power Ebook / Class Clash- A story about love and family background/status / Write Your Life Story In 6 Words

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