borie4u:

Happy birthday romanticnovels

Thank you. Much love

Amen. Thanks guys. Feedbacks from you always put a smile on my face. Thanks for appreciating this piece..

EPISODE FINALE.

‘A home… a home’

“Your heart is the home Vivian, your place has always been the home ever since I met you a year ago. Anytime I am broke, I come to you. Anytime you are ripped apart, you come to me. What other home is better than the one here?” he asked, touching her chest.

He held her hands and looked into her dark hazel eyes. Then slowly, their fingers intertwined. Their noses made contact, followed by their lips.
A kiss was shared.

******

“I can’t believe for a year now, I had been looking for someone who was just right behind my flat. I had been looking for the right person who happened to be someone close” He said as he bit a slice of cake. After a hot session of kisses, PHCN took the light so they lit a candle and sat on the rug, eating the cake.

“So this cake was meant for me, and you wanted to give out what was for me to another lady” she giggled, downing her glass of pure havens wine. She stared at the glim the candle was giving to their soft shadows on the wall and smiled.

“That was when I didn’t know my Mrs. right was my best friend. Actually, I have a confession” he whispered into her hair.

“Spill”

“I’ve actually had this growing affection or is it feelings for you for a long time now, but I didn’t want to spoil our friendship or create any awkwardness between us if you ended up turning me down so I kept the feelings at bay and forced myself to see you as a friend and nothing more”

“Hmmm. I also had a thing for you tho but Kunle and the flaws he pointed out in my body clouded my thoughts that I didn’t dwell so much on the butterflies you gave me anytime you were around me”
“So, now that we know we are meant for eachother, we should start planning a wedding” Lawrence said, wiping some icing from his lips.

“A wedding?” her brows drew together in askance.

“Yes, a wedding” Lawrence finalized as he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead while Vivian curled up on him like a tiny kitten.

‘Yes it is true that love finds you at the least expected places’

THE END.

“He said I was the worst thing that ever happened to him. He said he’s not proud to show me off and that explains why he hasn’t introduced me to his parents. He said he can’t marry a fat pumpkin. He said…” she stopped and suddenly started pulling her hair like a mad woman.
Lawrence dropped all he held in his hands on the chair and sat next to her. He was surprised to see that she cut out Kunle’s face in the pictures they both took together and also tore some into pieces.
He held her face in his palm and stroked it lightly.
“It’s okay Viv. You are very beautiful the way you are. He lost a gem and he is going to realize that soon enough. No man is worth your tears”
“Because they are golden.” He added.
He pulled her into a warm embrace and consoled her, kneading his fingers into her skin and muttering sweet nothings to her ear. At a point, he stopped and the only sound in the room was that of the ceiling fan and their breathings.
Suddenly, she moved away from him when her eyes caught the cake and the gift bag on the chair.
“And toke? You asked her out right?”
His heart sunk into his stomach at the mention of that name.
“No, I was going to do so actually but…” he sighed and buried his face in his palms.
He explained what happened to her, he told her what he heard. Exactly the way it was said.
“Awww” she cooed softly.
“She probably had her own boyfriend and was using you to pass time, kill boredom or something”
“I guess so too”
It was then her turn to scoop him in her arms.
“It’s okay. It’s okay to cry. Let’s cry our eyes out now so we can move on afterwards” she said and as if on cue, a tear slid down Lawrence’s face.
Together they cried in silence together for what seemed like forever.
There is nothing that can be compared to the tears shed by two broken hearts.
Vivian cleared her throat and broke the silence.
“But it’s a good thing anytime these things happen; you have a place to come back to. A home” she sniffed, looking into his eyes.
Lawrence glared at her, taking in the deeper meaning of what she just uttered.
‘A home… a home..’ he mumbled.

“Erm. I just thought it was a nice idea coming to spend some time with you. You look tattered, are you okay?” he asked, raising a dark brow.
“Honey! You are taking too long. Won’t we finish what has been started?”A masculine voice spoke from the room.
Lawrence felt like a dagger was plunged dangerously into his heart as he froze, crestfallen.
“Lawrence please you have to go now. I have an important guest. I will beep you when I am done” “No you don’t have to. I get it” he discomfitedly said and scampered out of the room with the gifts, feeling like the earth beneath him would shift anytime soon.
Lawrence heaved a deep sigh as he placed the cake and bag on the backseat. He sat down and began to wonder what was happening. Four months with her and he didn’t know there was a man somewhere in her life. But she had given him the brightest green light a lady can ever give a man. Though she didn’t specifically state that she was single and there wasn’t a time he asked too. He had just assumed she was single since all her actions screamed that title.
With a disarrayed mind, he drove back home. He was so close to tears but he made up his mind not to cry. He had handled more disappointing and mentally sensitive situations in the past; Toke’s case wasn’t going to break down the man in him. He got the cake and bag from the back and walked to the second flat.
He knocked on the door but there was no response. “Vivian, are you home?” he asked as he walked to the window, closing one eye and using the other eye to peer.
He saw Vivian sitting on the rug, crying her eyes out. She was using knife to destroy some photographs, wailing loudly as she did so. Her makeup was soiled due to the tears and the red gown she was on was in ruins. It was definitely a bad dinner she had with her boyfriend.
He quickly walked back to the door and opened it, thankfully, it wasn’t locked.
“Vivian!”
“He broke up with me! That bastard! After three years” she yelled. She looked like she would pass out at any moment. Her completely glazed over eyes were turning paler as seconds went by.

It had been four months Lawrence met Toke and their friendship blossomed like a lily by the river side. He virtually knew a lot of things about her now. He knew she liked yam and egg, could do anything to have a cool boat ride and yacht cruise, loved cakes with caramel frostings and next to that was reading e-books on a particular page on instagram, her favourite page actually, Talesofhearts.
Lawrence knew there was no one else he wanted to be with than Toke, so he decided to ask her out on Friday night which happened to be Valentine ’s Day.
Walking into a cake shop, he ordered for a red velvet cake rich with caramel toppings. He paid for it and promised to be back Friday morning for the package. He bought her a red short gown and nude heels. Then he thought it would be nice to get a bouquet too. He branched at a bouquet shop and bought crispy red and gold bouquet. It was beautiful.
“All these for her?” Vivian wowed as she dropped the gown on the sofa.
“Yes Viv. That girl deserves more and I love her already God! She’s bursting my brain”
Vivian wheezed out a laugh and playfully punched him on the arm.
“Lover boy. This happens once in a while and I am happy you have found love again. The last time I saw these sparks in your eyes was when you dated that Hausa girl your mom rejected”
“It’s all good you know. Vivian, toke is my missing piece. She is unique in her own ways. We’ve hung out a lot of times and I can tell she’s the one I want to be with”
Vivian smiled and winked at him.
“Oh please! We both know you don’t know how to wink. I am the winking master here” He said and winked.
Vivian rolled her eyes and threw him a pillow.
“Please, no pillow fight today bestie!” “Oh really?” she asked as she lurched forward and pressed a pillow to his face.
It was Friday evening, Vivian watched as Lawrence tried different suits. He would wear one, look at the mirror and throw the thing off, mumbling some words to himself.
“Seriously, you have been planning for this night ever since and finally, its here and you don’t know what to wear? Who does this?” She huffed.
“Of course I know what to wear. I just-“
“Yes of course you know what to wear. It’s pretty obvious you do Dr Lawrence” she said as she adjusted her frame on his bed. Lawrence caught her reflection in the mirror he was facing and smirked.
“Okay fine. I know you’ve been dying to hear me ask you for a help” he stopped and scoffed while Vivian gave a devilish laughter.
“Oya, sha come and select one”
Vivian smiled and got out of the bed. She raised up a suit jacket and rolled her eyes.
“Seriously? You were considering wearing a white suit to go meet a lady”
“And what’s wrong with that?”
“No I should be asking you what’s wrong with wearing a sweet colour like navy-blue. You’ll just wear a black shirt in, black trousers and navy blue jacket like this one here” she said, raising up a navy-blue jacket with black stripes at the collar.
A sinister smile crossed his lips.
“Not bad!” he said, combing a hand through his hair.
***
With a big heart shaped cake in one hand, a gift bag containing the gown and bouquet in another hand, Lawrence sighed as he stood before Toke’s door with adrenaline coursing through his system. “Gosh! What sort of man am I if at thirty-two, I am still this nervous asking a lady out” he breathed, silencing the battle his mind was having with his heart.
He adjusted his collar and dropped the gift bag on the floor before gently placing two quick knocks on the dark reddish brown mahogany door.
After knocking for a while, he checked the time. It was 8:13pm and she was meant to be at home. At least, he had called in the morning to ask her how she would spend the val and she had said she would be at home. Just that, he didn’t tell her he would be coming over. He wanted her to be fascinated with the surprise and all.
He turned the knob and pushed the door open. He entered with the cake and gift bag and closed the door. “Toke!” his voice broke slightly
“Omotoke!” he called out again, this time louder.
He was about walking to her room when a dishevelled Toke rushed out.
“Lawrence. What are you doing here?” she asked, raking her hands through her scraggly hair as a shiver of fear ran down her spine.

To be continued tomorrow. Have a lovely night rest

Lawrence finished up with the rest of the patients and hurried out of his office. He said his byes to his friends and nurses and left. He had a date with Toke in about twenty minutes and he wanted to branch at a boutique to buy a bowtie for his suit.
But why was he trying to impress her anyway? Could it be that Toke had hit a soft spot in his heart? He punched in a message to her, informing her he would be a bit late for the date, but not anything later than fifteen extra minutes.
He parked in front of a boutique and walked in. He made his choice,a polka dot wine and black bowtie and paid.
He drove off to his house and had a change of outfit. He made sure to smell good. When he was dressed to his satisfaction, he briefly greeted Vivian. The latter accessed him and gave his dressing a thumbs up. He had informed her he was going on a date but he really didn't talk much about Toke.
Finding a space at the parking lot, he adjusted his shirt and make his entry into the restaurant.
Beautifully made up face, long dark brows above cat-like eyes, lush firm boobs, hour glass shape and hot legs which looked a mile long in those spiky heels.
Damn! She had a make-me-sin kind of beauty.
Toke was carrying a small tray of samosa and red wine. She flashed him a smile when she saw him. He returned her smile and walked up to her.
"Hello beautiful" he greeted, admiring her every feature. He took in the smell of her perfume, she reeked of heavy floral perfume. It was an addicting scent. "Hi doc" her voice was soft and low, reminding him of dark rooms and silent nights.
He mimicked her by also lowering her voice whilst a wide smile crossed her lips.
When she smiled at him, he forgot how to breath.
Well, after about an hour of talking and smiling, Toke and Lawrence walked out of the restaurant. They both leaned on his car, facing each other and holding hands.
"Thanks for this date" he said and she blushed a dark shade of pink.
"You are welcome. I had fun. It was like that was our first date" she spoke softly. Lawrence reflectively breathed out a laugh.
"Okay so can I get a goodnight peck?"
Her face contorted into a frown, making Lawrence's heart do some swelling up.

“Vivian. It is not like that. Its just that after what happened, I just got confused with my life, this marriage pressure is eating me up. I have been having terrible mood swings and I didn't want you to be affected with my own problems."
"But we are friends yeah? I've got you and you've got me. We should be able to help each other, even mentally and emotionally"
"Yeah. I know right. I am deeply sorry Viv"
She nodded and gave him a smile. "So what have you been up to?" She asked.
"I think the question should be what have you been up to Vivian, you look sick"
She heaved a sigh and blinked away what seemed like tears.
"It's kunle" she breathed. "Okay? He raises his voice a bit, meaning that he wanted her to tell him more.
"Okay fine! He's been really complaining about my weight lately. I had to get this drink a friend recommended and it's been turning my stomach ever since I started using it. I just want this weight to go down. It's holding me back. My looks, my confidence, self esteem and now my relationship?"
"Yesterday, he commented on a post on Instagram. It was a post saying you should tag fat people that you know. Guess what my boyfriend did." She stopped and wiped away the tears that were now streaming down her chubby cheeks freely.
"He tagged me and compared me to an over risen bread" she squeezed her pale face painfully and pricked the corner of her glassy eyes. "Jeez!" Lawrence wheezed as he moved closer to her and wiped off her tears.

**
The sound of gagging and vomits was loud enough to make Lawrence turn back. He headed to the second flat just behind his. As he approached the self contain, a putrid smell hit his nose, making him wonder if it was actually Vivian throwing up or someone else. He stopped dead in his tracks when he saw the former vomiting repeatedly.
“Hey, Vivian!” he called out as he hastened his steps into her house to fetch a bowl of water. He rinsed her face with the water and washed off the vomit into the drainage.
Taking her inside, he cautiously plopped her down on a couch and supported her back with a throw pillow.
“Viv. You are not okay” he firmly said.
The plump lady who was in her late twenties eyed him and looked away. She was clothed in a ‘danshiki’ gown and her hair was tied into a messy bun.
“Viv?” he called out.
“Talk to me” He added before gently stroking her arm. Vivian jerked off from his grip and clicked her tongue.
“Lawrence, please leave”
He sighed and ducked his head low. Yes he knew they had not been the best of friends ever since he returned from Lagos but then he wouldn’t blame himself. He had drew into his own nest after the failed wedding and he really made sure to avoid bumping into his neigbour, who also happened to be his best friend, yeah, aside Jeff.
They had become friends when Vivian moved in a year ago. The ‘Hi..hello’ they muttered to each other as just flatmates had blossomed into a tight friendship. They discussed a lot of things. Even family and relationship affairs and when Lawrence was getting married, she supported him in all the ways she could. She was even the one that chose his tux and shoes. It was just so sad the wedding didn’t go as planned.
“Viv. I know I have been acting really weird ever since I got back but you just have to understand that-“
“Understand what?” Vivian snapped, her tongue snaking out to touch the tip of her lower lip.
“You knew you were my best friend and there was no one else I could confide in. that’s certainly why you had to treat me like shit, leaving me to my world” she rambled.

“Thanks.” She finally said, getting the pack from him.
“Chicken and chips! Thanks a lot Lawrence”
“Don’t mention. ” he stated as he ignited and started driving out.
“So, I take it that you don’t know how to cook” “I.. err. I cant describe myself as a good cook but I do know how to toast bread, make noodles and boil water for tea”
Toke burst out into laughter, her eyes closed in pleasure as she shrilled and continued laughing.
***
“Welcome to my house.” Toke said. She gulped as she eyed him speculatively. He wasn’t just attractive, he was downright gorgeous. Taking him in lit a fire in her that started from embers she hadn’t realized burned within her.
“You have a lovely place here” “Thank you” She replied, her face lighting up.
”Let me go get us plates for the food” toke said. “I think you should go change into a more comfortable outfit.” His voice morphed into a deeper tone as he spoke.
“Alright. Feel at home!” she spoke, giving a chiming giggle as she trailed off.
Lawrence watched her walk away and smiled. He rested on the chair and admired her house. It was painted in hot pink and cream. It was a three bedroom flat and was spacious enough. Lawrence felt a stab of arousal in him when Toke came out in a black short and green tank top. He swallowed the lump in his throat and sighed.
She smiled at him as she picked up the pack of food and went to the kitchen. Lawrence unbuttoned his shirt to the third button and stood up. He walked to the kitchen and leaned on the door frame. Since she didn’t notice his presence, he further walked in and stood behind her, then grazed his fingers on her arm, gingerly drawing circles in it.
“Law..Lawrence” She drawled, the burning sensation in her spine made her choke on her words. She felt her nipples draw to tight points as a strange heaviness filled her breasts.
She turned and wowed at the close proximity between them. He looked into her eyes and she did the same. Slowly, she felt her own reluctance bubbling within her. She couldn’t think of a plausible reason to still stay pressed so close to him and so, she took a cautious step back though the whole of her craved for his touch.

“Toke” He called. The flirtation in his voice made her cheeks flare with colour.
“Gosh. This man!” she thought as she bit her lower lip, staring at him with lust filled eyes. The definition of his torso and his muscles so snugly encased in his biceps made her mouth go dry.

The sky was clogged with grey clouds and the wind howled against the glass. It looked like it would thunderstorm at any second. Lawrence shut his window panes and removed his coat. He was done for the day. He got out of his office and walked down series of corridors. He squeezed his eyes shut and mumbled some incoherent words when his eyes fell on Stella’s frame. She was walking up the corridor, with her hands inside the pockets of her coat. Lawrence stopped abruptly and wondered whether or not to turn around and walk in the opposite corridor even though it would be a longer journey. “Lawrence” Her voice broke the stillness of the corridor. Lawrence smirked and walked up to her. He wanted to act maturely, the way a real man should handle breakups and exes.
“Hi” he smiled at her softly.
“Lawrence, why didn’t you pick my calls yesterday? I sent you messages too but you replied none. What is happening to us?” she asked, her face contorting into a deep frown.
“Stella, there was no ‘us’. All you cared about was you and what you wanted. You were just too demanding. Look, I want us to handle this like adults that we are.” He said. He spotted some dark circles underneath her eyes and sighed. The breakup was obviously taking its toll on her.
“Lawrence, please. Don’t do this to me. I promise to change. Just give me a second chance”
A breath escaped harshly from his throat.
“Stella. I am sorry, I have to go now. We are still friends right?”He asked.
She kept silent and continued staring at him. Twin tears rolled down her cheeks and gently dropped on her white coat. Lawrence patted her shoulder and walked away without a glance back.

Getting to where his car was parked, he fished out his phone and dialed Toke’s digits.
“Hello?” Toke’s voice rang into the mouthpiece.
“Toke. Are you almost down? You told me yesterday you have noon shift today.”
“Umm. Am almost done. My shift ends by 5:00pm and its 4:30 already, any problem?”
“i would love to drop you off and know your place”
“Alright then. Just give me thirty minutes. I would call you when I am done”
He ended the call and slid into the driver’s seat. After about five minutes, he drove out of the hospital premises to a nearby restaurant and got two plates of chicken and chips with ketch up. He just thought it would be cool to get something for them both.
He drove back to the hospital and sat on a bench under the tree waiting for her.
“Lawrence. Why are you doing this?” he asked himself but he couldn’t fathom a reasonable reason.
His phone rang, it was toke. He stood up and walked to his car. He entered and wheeled it to the pharmacy. He stopped just in front of it and called her to inform her he was around.
“Hey” She greeted, smiling sweetly at him. She was beautifully dressed in a bell shaped skirt and a sky blue striped shirt.
“Hi” he replied, winding down the glass. She walked at a brisk pace to the passenger’s seat and sank into the warmth and comfort of the seat. She placed her head on the headrest and sighed.
“Today was so hectic” She pouted her lips as she wiped beads of sweat from her nose.
Lawrence looked at her admiringly and smiled.
“What?” she asked once she caught him smiling.
“Nice hair” He commented on her newly made hair.
“Braids look good on you” he added.
Toke gasped in surprise and burst into laughter.
“What’s so amusing?” he asked, widening his eyes.
“You knowing what braids is. It is so amusing” “I am not that bad at these things you know.”
“Uhm. I bought this for us” he said, fetching the pack of food from the backseat.
“Aww” she cooed. She felt a frisson of desire shiver down her spine and curl around to nest low in her belly as she held his gaze.

PamelB:
okay. But you've gotta give me my credits hmmm?

Of course. Definitely. If you are on IG, you can give me your handle so I can tag you

queenitee:

I'm interested, is the email the one you used in opening your Nl account?

No. Please send to romanticnovellas0@gmail.com

Good morning. I need some stories to feature on my IG page and blog and I have found yours worthy. Please give your consent. Credit will be awarded to you as the writer. Expecting a response soon. Thanks

Hello writer. I would love to feature this story on my IG page and blog. Please give your consent. Thanks

Chumzypinky:

contact me on 08177971589
are u male or female?

I have been trying that number for a while now. Even sent message no response. I just want to seek your permission to feature this nice story on my IG page and blog. Credit will be awarded to you as the writer. Reply ma

Nice story.. Please check your mail

Hey guys. I am so sorry for zoning out. My phone got missing and I recently got a new one. Now I am back and updates resume tomorrow Godwilling.

My birthday is on the 18th and I am giving away airtime. So please don't miss out, join us on Instagram @romantic_novellas
There is a big challenge opening to everyone too. You write a short story and dedicate to me(Fiction or true life story). You can send to romanticnovellas0@gmail.com
Something might just be in store for you if you happen to be part of the best three.

Thank you and have a nice day!

Please check your mail ma. Thanks

“Yeah. Now you can go on and on with the laughter”

“I am sorry. It was just very funny. Are you serious? Barely a week”

“I should then take it that you didn’t like the lady in the first place”

“Hmm. Not really and she wasn’t making it easy for me to like her. She was choking me up already. I just had to choose between desperation and my own happiness. I am not that desperate for a wife”

“But your mom is” she said, playing with the nail beds of her well manicured fingers.
“I’m sorry but at this point she has to take it slow. It’s my life and my future we are talking about here.”
“I understand.”

“So, that aside. When are we coming to eat rice and chicken”

“C’mon, stop!”

“I should stop what?”

“The way you are speaking, it doesn’t really suit your person so stop trying to be comic”
“Wow. I’ve been caught” he cooed.

“I think we should order for something” He said when his stomach rumbled loudly, causing him to clutch it in embarrassment.
***
15th July, 2016.

Dinner with Lawrence today was fun. I feel like if I spend more time with him, I might run the risk of falling helplessly in love with him. I think I find his company intriguing. I want more…
Of him

Toke scribbled down into her diary as she lustfully thought of his light stubble grazing against the inside of her thighs. She blushed and cuddled the pillow closer to her chest as she chased her fantasies into Lalaland.

Lawrence walked into the restaurant and found a table for two. He took in his environment, it was lovely. The restaurant was beautifully decorated. Outdoor were street lamps dimly glowing, adding to the aura the place held. He plopped down into a seat and drew a heavy sigh as he waited for Toke. He picked up the menu and started flipping through the pages to while away time.

“Lawrence?” A lady called out.

He turned back and saw Toke gracefully dressed in a short tight gown with a very nice bateau neckline. The gown which accentuated her curves well also had big enough breast cups to accommodate her full lush breasts. She left her makeup minimal but lovely which made her look like a fine piece of vanilla cake.

He stood up and gave her a quick hug. She nuzzled into cheek and placed a peck on it.
“Evening” Lawrence said, watching her draw a chair to sit.

“You look ...err” his mouth hung open a little bit, unsure of what to say.

“Stunning. That’s the word” He said pointedly and smiled, inwardly admiring her eyes which were brighter than any emerald he’d ever seen.

“Thanks” She replied. A slight tinge of pink was in her cheeks, causing her to look windswept.

“You look stressed. You had a rough time in the hospital today?” she asked, batting her eyelashes which were lined with what looked like inches of black eyeliner.

“I wasn’t on duty but some other things stressed me out” he explained and let out a long breathe.
“Things like?” she asked as she flashed him the warmest smile he had ever seen.

“Please can we just forget about how my day went? Let’s talk about you”

“Nooo. I mean, what sort of time would we be spending together when you smile and the smile obviously isn’t reaching your eyes?”

“Ok. I ended a relationship with a lady this evening”

“Oh wow. I thought you weren’t going to give relationship a thought yet due to what happened” she said as she pouted up her delicate lips, red as a rose.

“I just had to. It’s a bit complicated.”
“How long?”

“It’s not up to a week yet”

“What?” she asked reflectively, breathing out a laugh.

“21 missed calls!” Jeff screamed as he dropped Lawrence’s phone on the table.

“Guy, you have to attend to this one o. It’s like she’s here to stay”

“Stay where?” he asked, his eyes revealing his curiosity.

“In your life now.” “See Jeff, I am very tired right now. Physically, mentally, psychologically and emotionally”

“I just hope you are not tired sexically. I am here to deliver” Came Bolu’s voice. He was a big time womanizer, always giving it to unserious nurses back to back. There had even been a time he was queried for impregnating a patient. How he settled the hospital management and the said patient, no one knew.

“Oshey!!! Baddest. Bolu you are the real gee” Jeff hailed as his eyes trailed the beautiful ladies on the left and right side of Bolu.

“Bolu, last time I checked you were a medical doctor. Aint you scared your license might be ceased amidst all these scandalous acts and escapades?” Lawrence huffed, his face scrunched up in concentration.

“Bleep that shii. These ones aint patients and besides, I am a hot doctor” Bolu smirked, turning in a circle in a show off manner. “Doctors like you are the kinds giving the medical profession a bad –“ Lawrence stopped when his eyes caught a familiar face.
“Wetin?” Jeff asked, scooping a spoon of rice in his mouth.

“I thought you said these ones aint patients, Bolu!”
“Of course they are not” Bolu replied, giving him a puzzled expression.

“It might interest you to know that this is my patient” He said, pointing at the rude lady he had attended to a week ago. The lady hissed upon realization that it was the doctor she had had a hard time dealing with.

“So you are a slut! I thought ladies that are mouthed like you were independent working class ladies”

“Abeg abeg. Dr. Bolu, if na wash your friend wan wash me, make you kuku tell me make I comot” “Shuu? She’s even addressing the almighty womanizer Dr. Bolu” she spoke, her teeth chattering frantically.

“Of course. Why won’t she? I didn’t buy my certificate. I went to the medical school, suffered for six years and have my MBBS-“

“Degree” Lawrence and Jeff chorused before bursting into a fit of laughter.

“Jeff! Which one do you want please?



“Hmm.. I think this would do for this night” Jeff said, pointing to a dark skinned busty lady about the age of twenty-three.
“Jo, would you like to be with Lawrence?” Bolu asked.

“Capital no!” she heatedly said, her voice filled with venom.

“I would rather die than be with a lady like you. I just hope this time you don’t come complaining about your pussy paining you” Lawrence said as he got and walked to the door, flinging it open widely that it almost swung off its hinges.

Stella angrily stormed into his house with a tear stained face. The knot in her stomach grew with each step to his room.

“Lawrence!” She shouted in a fitful rage, raising her arched brows.

Lawrence tossed on the bed and changed his sleeping position. He gave a loud yawn and continued sleeping.

Stella fetched a bowl of water from the bathroom and emptied the content on him. Lawrence shot up and wiped water from his face. He hastily rolled off the bed when his eyes fell on Stella.

“Oh shit!" He cursed.

"I am sorry Stella. I slept off after I came back from church. I really didn't mean to keep you waiting”

“You slept off? You slept off when we were supposed to have a date this evening” She spat, much to his surprise.

“I am so sorry but I was just very tired that I didn’t know when I crashed on the bed”

“Oh shut up! Just say I am not your priority. For Christ sake I was supposed to be number one in your life now that I am your girlfriend. You could have set an alarm if indeed you wanted the date with me”

“Stella. Stop yelling at me” he said firmly.

“I will so yell, shout, scream and do anything I want to do with my voice” she rambled.

"You are so insensitive and unreasonable. Why would you stand me up while you are here sleeping like a lifeless dog. What sort of boyfriend are you? Yes I know you don't love me as much as I love you but must you show it Everytime? Why are you so heartless?" Her constricted with immense pain as her cheeks received some fat tears.

“Fine then. I am fed up of your incessant rants and nag. You nag about everything! I thought I was going to love you. I didn’t want to hurt your feelings anymore by turning you down again but it seems you and I can’t get along. I should have said ‘no’ when you came on me again but I guess I was careful of hurting you. I think we are done here” He spoke and picked his car keys.

“What?” she asked, her voice wavering slightly in unknown fear as her feet, by their own accord carried her closer to where Lawrence stood.

“And, I don’t know how you managed to get my spare key which gave you the guts to bang in on me anytime but return it before you leave.”

Golden rays of light filtered in through the gaps of the curtain, causing him to turn away from the window. He spread his legs apart and yawned loudly.

"Gracias!" He breathed as he snuggled out of bed.

He walked to the bathroom and emptied his bowels. Picked up his toothpaste and toothbrush and gave himself a thorough mouthwash.

He heated water and sat down, waiting for it to boil.
"Damn! Am off today!" His voice bellowed.

He switched off the water heater and crashed on the bed again, tossing and turning. Switching on his phone, he called Jeff and asked him if he and the boys would be free later in the day so they could hang out. Jeff was on a night shift, same with the Bolu and Mide.

Lawrence wondered why they loved night duties. Even if there was a change in the time schedule, they would make sure they get the night shifts. Probably to flirt around with some nurses and interns.
He sauntered to the kitchen and made toast bread. He served himself on a plate and strolled to the sitting room.

'Work.. work.. work.. work.. work..' his phone rang. He looked at the I.D and sighed. "Good morning Stella"

"What is good about the morning when you couldn't call me to apologize about yesterday"
Lawrence rolled his eyes as he broke the bread into two pieces.

"Stella. I didn't do anything wrong. You were the one assuming out of the blues that I would do something"

He scoffed. What was she expecting? A ring and marriage proposal?

"But you disgraced me Lawrence"

"Nope." He popped the last syllable and cringed.
"Are you saying I disgraced myself?"

Lawrence clamped a palm on his lips to prevent himself from bursting into laughter. Which would do nothing but add fuel to the fire.

"Ok. I am sorry" "No endearment?"

He smiled and writhed on the seat he rested on.
"Anyway, are you going to church this morning?"
"Yeah. My church starts by 10am"

"You are always off on Sundays right?"

"Yeah." He spoke, releasing the breath he had been holding.

Lawrence furrowed his brows, knowing where she was getting into. "We should hang out this evening then" she said. He squeezed his face as he ran his fingers through his tousled hair.

"Oh. I was thinking of napping all through the evening"He said in a muffled voice.

'You can always nap after the outing right? We should visit the newly built chicken republic at Ring road' her voice sounded like a strangled cat begging for milk.

He rolled his eyes and mumbled something incoherent. Objecting would make the conversation annoyingly long and unending.
"Alright. I'll come pick you up then" he said.

"Okay love. See ya"

He sighed and quickly finished up with his toast bread. He stood up and fetched the orange drink Toke made from the fridge and finished it. He rinsed his glass jug and kept it in the cabinet. When next would he have a home made fruit drink?

Lawrence removed his cap and slumped on the nearest chair to him. Sweat seeped from his forehead down to his nose. It had taken him a lot of energy to stop Stella from creating a scene at the reception.

She had expected him to do something romantic like showing her off to the guests or publicly professing sweet nothings to her. The boys had burst into a fit of laughter that awkward moment he asked her what she wanted him to do and she was tongue-tied. She looked so terrible, as pale as a ghost as she disgracefully ran out like a flash of lightning after the whole thing.

‘Women and dramas!’ He thought as he removed his agbada and sprung from the seat, and then staggered to his room. He was off duty the following day. He would have time for himself and probably hang out with the boys in the evening. He laid on the bed and closed his eyes. His phone rang, making him let out a loud groan.

“Mom. You called. Finally” He said into the mouthpiece.

“Look at you. Were you not meant to call me when you got to Ibadan that day?”

“I’m sorry. I had to attend to something”
“Something or someone?” She joked as she burst into a fresh fit of laughter.

“Mom!” He huffed, his brows bunching together.
“What?” She giggled.

“Toke called and told me she prepared you a meal. How was it?”

“It was awesome. She is a good cook”

“She is a good wife material. 10000 yards sef”

“Mom!” he chuckled, letting out a lungful of air.

“I want you to keep in touch with her. Not just because of food but my mind tells me there is something between you two.”

“I have heard you mom. I had a very hectic day today. You know Dr. Ifeoma now?”

“Ifeoma? Ifeoma keh? Oh! That rumbu rumbu doctor that saved me from getting lost when I came to UCH. That fine fat and round lady. What happened to her? Lawrence, don’t tell me it is now omo ibo you want to –“

“Hush mom. I was about to tell you she got married today. I and my friends went for the ceremony”

“Ahahh.. Ehya, thank God o. I wish her a happy home. Greet her for me ehn?”

“This is what we are talking and shouting about everyday. Lawrence when are you giving another lady a chance in your life? Your father, even though I hate talking about that man that left me and me and married that yam legged shapeless woman in Enugu. He married me when he was barely twenty six"

"Mom! I am taking my time. And besides, he left you because you were troublesome and too much to handle. I wasn't so young when the whole thing happened and-"

"Don't even go there. Don't let us start. Was it my fault he started drinking? Was it my fault he preferred hanging out with pot bellied friends? Why would I not be troublesome when he was always stepping on my toes?" Her voice sounded strained. Lawrence knew anytime they talked about his father and their divorce, she would seethe and boil. He opened his mouth to say something but his words became lost.
Rolling his eyes disgustingly, he gave a heavy breathe.

"Ok mom. I have heard you. My head is pounding already. I need to go to bed"

"Goodnight" he added distaste fully and ended the call.

He was about switching off his phone when another call came in 'Lara' he read.

'Why is she calling me now?' He thought as he contemplated whether to pick her call or not. He wasn't ready to talk to her yet. He decided it was not yet time and if he picked the call, it would surely be a long night.

A message came in. He felt a sudden twinge of unease as he tapped his screen and the message displayed.

'You have all the rights in the world to be angry with me. I am sorry for doing it. I just couldn't marry you. I love someone and even though I tried forcing myself to love you. Feelings can't be forced and I am sure you know our moms who wanted the marriage wouldn't go through it with us. It was better leaving. I am sorry I had to do it at the wrong time but it was the right thing to do. Please forgive me Lawrence. I wish all the best finding your own woman.

'The right one for you'

His heart felt like it was beating a thousand times per second even though the message was soothing. Lawrence sighed and switched off his phone . He cocooned himself into the sheets and prayed for sleep to consume him.

'Goodness! What a day to be alive'

“Why haven’t you commented on my dress?” Stella asked, pouting her lips.

“Stella I am driving!”Lawrence spelt out to her. It was an Owambe saturday and they were going for the wedding reception of one of their colleagues.A female doctor too.They would have gone for the joining at the church if not for Stella who took all the time in the world caking up her face and dressing up.

She wore a beautifully tailored green lace gown.It was an off shoulder with a love heart neckline.Stunning pretty little gems were arranged at the hem of the gown and the gele she tied.Her makeup spoke volume. It was loud but she looked very beautiful with it. Her heels were also outrageously high. Maybe everything was indeed totally uncalled for like Lawrence pointed out to her.

“Lawrence.I am still waiting for you to say something about my dress. I thought you would like something like this so I sewed it for you” She pointed out, her voice evidently laced with fury.
“Young woman please let me concentrate. Arghh” Lawrence irritatedly said.He would have commented if he found it beautiful but too him it was too luxurious and extravagant. She wasn’t the bride for Pete sake! She should have gone for something simpler.

“Fine then!” She tutted as her heart flipped dangerously.

Stella kept quiet but she did click her tongue and grunt every now and then.Lawrence found a space in front of Palm suite hall and turned off the engine. He got down and called his Jeff that he was around.

Jeff, Mide and Bolu came out after about five minutes and they exchanged pleasantries. They were dressed in a Yoruba demon outfit. The agbada was perfectly sewn and the caps on their heads were so much on point. They all looked smoldering hot.
‘’Dr. Stella.Good afternoon” Bolu greeted Stella who was adjusting her head gear.

“Afternoon” she greeted curtly and returned to what she was doing.

“This guy, how far now?” Mide asked as his eyes flickered to Stella.

“She is now my girlfriend. I just had to say yes eventually” He silently announced.

“Wow. Congrats. But do you love her?” Jeff asked, almost in a whisper.

“I am trying my best guys. I don’t want to force the feelings. I believe as time goes on, I’ll come to love her"

"And maybe she's the Mrs right"
Bolu joked.

"You ehn? When are you going to start something serious with someone?" Lawrence asked as they walked into the hall, teasing and laughing.
The cool air hit Lawrence as they entered the beautifully decorated hall.

They found an empty table of four and they sat, enjoying the 'Laye' by Kiss Daniel being played by the DJ. After a while the event started proper. The couple danced in, they were admonished by the chairperson of the day and the cake was cut.

They had a short dance before the groom dedicated a lovely song to his bride. It was such an emotional moment.

Unmarried ladies in the hall and the bridal train were called to come on stage. It was time for the bride to throw her bouquet. Lawrence saw Stella walk to the stage with the corner of his eyes. The bouquet was thrown and the best lady was about catching it but it changed direction and Stella caught it. She screamed with glee as she fondled with the bouquet.

"Lawrence! Lawrence! I am the next bride. I just caught the bouquet" she happily chirped once she reached where Lawrence was sitting with his friends. The guests turned with smiles in their faces as they looked on, expecting something to happen.

"Oh. Congrats" Lawrence replied coldly, hating the attraction she had drawn to him.

"Lawrence. Is that all you have to say?" She stressed, looking disappointed and embarrassed.

"Please what else do you want me to say?" He asked, raising his voice. The whole attraction was already getting him tangled up.

Kindly check your mail ma

TheBlessedMAN ,please check your mail sir. Thanks

"Excuse me, you pounded yam or you stirred poundo yam"

"I pounded it. Isn't that what Ekitis and ondo's like?" She asked, erupting into a fit of giggles.
Lawrence smiled. "I am sorry my mum had to stress you this much.Thanks. I am Lawrence"

"Dr Lawrence" I know you. I have seen you a couple of times in UCH and we also attended command" she prompted, grinning widely.

"Oh Yea.Mom was saying something about you attending command secondary too. I don't think I had an omotoke as a colleague then"

“You were one year my senior. I was in S.S.2 when you graduated”
“Hmm. Not bad. I heard you are a pharmacist. How has UCH been treating you?”

“Well, fine” she replied, relaxing on the kitchen’s cabinet. She pushed her hair out of her face so that it fell behind her shoulder.

“I think you should go freshen up while I set the table”

“Alright. Thanks a milli” He said as he walked out of the kitchen.

Toke placed four wraps of pounded in a plate for him and two wraps for herself. She dished two plates of the well stocked Efo soup and cat fish. She strode to the dining table and placed the plates on it. She got the freshly made orange juice from the fridge and poured the liquid into two glasses. She took the glasses and placed them just beside the food.

“You made the orange drink?” Lawrence’s voice came. He further walked to the dining table, pulled out a chair and sat on the soft padded cushion-like dinning chair.

“Yes. It’s homemade” Toke replied, smiling sweetly.

“Great dimples you have there” He complimented.

“Thanks” she said and blushed a deep shade of red.

He noticed the blush and smirked inwardly.
“Oh, sorry. Let me get a bowl of water so you can rinse your hands” she said and scurried to the kitchen.

“Thank you” Lawrence said once the bowl landed with a clunk on the table. He dipped his hands inside the bowl of water and rinsed them. He molded a small quantity of the pounded yam into a ball and coated soup with it, then threw it into his mouth and swallowed.

“This is great, Omotoke you are a good cook” He commended with satisfaction in his eyes as he molded the second ball.

The sound of her name falling from his mouth and the possibility of him and her together as one like his mother suggested to her over the phone unleashed fire within her.

As he ate, Toke analyzed him carefully. His hair was cut short at the sides but it was a bit high in the middle. Along his high cheekbones and jaw line was a thin layer of facial hair which made him appear even more handsome. One would never think he was in his early thirties already. She pictured herself running her hands through his dark curly hair and pressing feverish kisses along his jaw and neck.

‘Damn! This guy is a hot God in disguise!' She thought as she unwrapped her pounded yam. Her gaze still fixed on him. His dark honey eyes could melt a lady's eyes. Everything about him screamed cuteness.

Everything down to his posture and the dark stare he was stealing at her once in a while. And for another time again, their eyes shamefully at the recognition that she had just been caught again analyzing his every feature.

"Lawrence. Do you love me?"
"At this point, I think I have to go home"
"No! Answer me"

“Stella please, all these unnecessary rants are giving me headache. I want peace. There are too much dramas going on in my life already and all I want is someone that will give me peace. Is that too much to ask for?”

With that, Stella shut her lips up and looked straight, staring at nothing in particular.
“Please take me home” She pointed out.

Lawrence cringed as he ignited and the engine roared to life. He smiled when some medical student in U.I hailed him. Those were the students he tutored embryology and anatomy and he was glad they still appreciated him and what he did for them then.

The ride to Stella’s house was silent. A conversation only came up when there was traffic and Lawrence asked if she wanted something cold.

“Stella, I know I am not half the kind of man you want but know I am trying my best.” He said to the twenty-seven year old doctor. She smiled, the smile reaching her puppy dog eyes and then gave him a light peck before getting out of his car.

The smell of freshly made Efo soup wafted around the house as Lawrence parked his car and got down. He wondered if the boys had arrived from Lagos and they were probably cooking. They were the only ones with spare keys of his house.

He opened the door and headed straight to the kitchen, only to see a strange lady adding seasonings to the soup on fire.

“Hello?” he called out.

His husky voice made the young lady startle. She jolted and the spoon dropped into the pot of soup, making it splash.

“My eyes! Pepper!” she whimpered softly as she hiked up her t-shirt and started rubbing her eyes with it. Lawrence quickly put on the tap as he rushed to her and plashed the water all over her face.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you” He said when he realized the lady meant no harm and she was with no weapon.

“Who are you and how did you get in here?” he pressed, raising a challenging eyebrow at her.
“Please let me finish up with this” she said, stirring the soup. She tasted it and put the gas off.

“My name is Omotoke. And your mom told your friend, Jeff to give me the spare key of your house so I could come cook Efo soup for you. I just pounded yam some minutes ago.”

Lawrence huffed out an aggravated breathe as he packed his suitcase and walked in hurried steps out of his office.

He was done for the day and it was another doctor’s turn to continue from where he stopped. He reached for his pocket, his fingers grazed what felt like his car keys and he brought them out. He slid inside the car and ignited.

“Baby wait!” Stella screamed as she started walking out of the obstetrics and Gynecology department. Opening the passenger’s door and stepping in, she gave Lawrence a warm and inviting smile.
“Hey Love. How was your day?” She asked, giving a perfectly lined smile.

Lawrence scoffed, trying his best to hide his nerves. He turned off the engine and looked at her.

“My day was good thanks.”

“No dear, what’s wrong?” Stella furrowed her brows in question.

“Everything is wrong Stella!”

Stella was taken aback at his outburst. “I don’t understand” She said, almost out of breathe.
“Why did you post my picture on Facebook? Why all these public display over what we just started? I think you have to take things slow. You know what happened to me weeks ago and right now, I am very sensitive. Anything can turn me off”

“Oh, that’s it right? You don’t want me to be proud of what I have? Or you are trying to hide our relationship? Lawrence is there something I need to know that I haven’t known?” She charged at him, challenging his temper.

He sighed and looked out the window. His heart was palpitating loudly in his chest.

“Why didn’t you call me last night to tell me goodnight? Why didn’t you call me this morning to hear my voice? There has not been any call or message from you. I think you know about this thing called ‘checking up’” she spoke up, using her fingers to make the quotation sign in the air.
Lawrence kept silent, his face remaining unreadable.

“Lawrence say something!”

“What? Stella I had a very hectic day. I had to deal with a difficult patient today and you are also being tough here. Why are your expectations this high? You expect too much from me and it’s very scary because I am afraid that I won’t be able to do all these things you expect”

Stella looked at him with uncertainty in her eyes. She gulped.