I started my three days fasting and prayer for my mom on Thursday but, I also made sure she didnt find out since I still wanted my feeding money so I could save it.

My day went as fast as it could as I exempt myself from any strenuous activities or play so I wouldnt be so tired. I was waiting outside for Tayo and Faith after closing so that we could go home when Faith came to meet me outside, without her bag or Tayo.

Where is Tayo? Arent we going home yet? I asked her as I wondered what was happening.

Hmm She hesitated

What is it? I asked, impatiently.

Well, I and Tayo wants to read together. So, you can go home. She said as I tried to make sense of what she was saying.

What do you mean? I asked her as I felt like my whole world was crashing down on me. Did my best friend just choose the guy I liked over me?

Erhmmm what I meant was that you should go home and read. She said, trying to make excuses for herself.

Really? I said, chuckling.

Was that really what you meant or you are telling me to get lost that you want to spend some quality time with Tayo. I said, as I felt the anger that has been building in my mind unleash and I begged her with my eyes to stop talking so I wouldnt say things I dont mean but she was blind to my pleading.

And so, what if I want to? I know you like him but dont be selfish Enitan. I like him too and he has already shown an interest in me. She said, making me angry.

Selfish?! So, I am the one who is selfish now? Who is the one that wants to ruin her relationship with her best friend because of a guy?, who is the one that knows that her best friend likes a guy and still went after him. Was it me? Answer me Faith! I shouted in anger as I felt the tears that was about to start dropping.

Im sorry Enitan but, if what it takes for me to get Tayo is to lose our friendship then I am definitely going to do it. I am sorry. She said, hurrying inside as I watched her rush inside. I tried to hold the tears but it was impossible and I ran to the hall to cry in peace.

Are you okay? I heard everything. I heard someone say after a few minutes of crying alone and I looked up to see Bode.

What are you doing here? I asked, wiping away my teary face with my handkerchief.

Is that the way to greet a friend, you look terrible. He said, sitting beside me as we enjoyed each others company in peace.

Do you really think I am selfish? I asked him, remembering Faiths word.

No. He said, looking up at the sunny sky outside the window.

Do you think Faith is the selfish one? I asked him.

No. He responded.

Then who do you think is wrong?! I asked, frustrated.

None of you is. Your only offence was that you both fell for the same guy. He said, taking his gaze away from the sky and turning to me.

But I dont like Tayo. I stuttered.

You can keep saying that to yourself but not to me. I have watched the three of you and its clear as day that its a love triangle between the three of you. He said, very sure of himself.

Okay, lets just say I like him a little bit but still, I would never have let that ruin our friendship. Its babes before boos. I said, trying to make him understand why I was hurt by Faiths words.

Maybe you should have told her that, it doesnt matter who was wrong or right. What matters is that one of you is making an attempt to make things right. So, dont give up on her.

Okay, thank you so much. I said as he stood up.

Glad I could be of help. He said, throwing me a playful smile.

I have a question to ask you though? I said.

What is it?

Does Tayo at least like one of us? I asked him.

How am I supposed to know that? He said, shrugging his shoulders.

You are his best friend; I am sure you know something even if he doesnt tell you. Im not asking you to tell me who, I just want to be sure we are not wasting our time. I said.

You arent. He replied simply, giving me the answer I wanted as he walked away. I watched him walk away and as he got to the door, he suddenly stopped and turned around.

Right now, he is not fully in love with anyone but he is slowly falling in love with one of you. A piece of advice Itan, dont simply let Faith have him because you think you cant win. Im sure she would enjoy a good competition. May the best woman win. He said, smiled at me and opened the door.

I shook my head, amused as he left the hall. I had no interest in competing with Faith over Tayo, I just didnt want to lose my best friend.

The next day, I avoided talking to her because I just didnt know what to say and it was too awkward between us. I figured that if we didnt talk to each other for a while, we would be able to bury those hateful words and feelings. However, I didnt know my so-called solution will just make the gap in our friendship much wider.

That Friday, we didn't go home together and soon it would become a routine. That weekend must have been one of the most boring weekends I have had since I met her, I felt like all the elements were against me as my data got exhausted and my sim got blocked as I tried to load airtime. I ended settling for some novels I have read over and over again.

The next Monday was no better but thankfully, it was test week and I had something to keep my mind occupied. It must have been the first time in my life where I was happy about writing a test but it didnt matter because, it kept me busy.

Wednesday arrived in the blink of an eye and I was taking my first test in senior secondary school. I woke up early and got to school extra early. I had read the whole night since I was nervous and also, didn't want to fail.

I wanted a good grade and with the warnings and scares from the teachers, I had figured it wouldnt be easy so I pushed myself extra hard and thankfully I had a good reading partner.

Over the past few days, I had gotten closer to Bode and also, gotten to understand his personality. He was gentle, kind, observant but also fun.

He is not the type that talks much but when he does, he talks sense. We had become quite close, not close enough to tell my family problems or emotional problems to but close enough to chitchat and study with.

The first test we had was English which was quite simple. All it consisted of was picking correct phrases, synonyms and antonyms.

The next test was chemistry which after all the amount of reading I did was still a bit difficult. I was starting to get scared when I realize I didn't know the first two questions when Bode tapped me.

"Hey, you can write from my script." He whispered.

"No, thank you." I muttered and closed my eyes.

When I opened it, I started afresh and was able to answer a few while I prayed for God's favour in the rest.

I was on way to the mart to get some snack after the test with Bode when he said,

"Why didn't you copy from my work?" He asked, walking beside me as we made our way gradually to the mart.

"Nothing, I just believe in doing my work alone so I can be proud of my result." I said shyly.

"Wow, I love that. It such a pity I already have a girlfriend, I would have just asked you out." He teased, and we both burst into laughter.

The test week went on like that as Bode helped me study more, since he found out about me loving to do my tests on my own.

I was sitting on the chair watching one of the movies I just got on Friday evening when someone knocked at the door.

I rushed to the door and opened it; I scream excitedly as I hugged my eldest sister who was standing in front of me before collecting her bag from her hand.

I started to gush on happily about school and things she had missed, not even remembering to ask after her husband while she just laughed.

"Where is mummy?" She asked, still laughing.

"She is in her room." I replied.

"Okay, let me go and see her. We will talk later; I am not leaving till Sunday." She said smiling.

"Okay." I replied as I continued my movie.

It was the next night when the purpose for sister Ibukuns visit was finally approached.

Mum was sitting on the three-seater chair with sister Ibukun while I was seated on another, busy with my phone when all of a sudden, the topic was brought up.

"Ehrm... So, mummy, now that you have lost your job. What are you going to do?" Sister Ibukun asked her.

"My dear, I don't know ooh but I have plans on searching for another job." She said.

"Mummy, I have talked to Ife and we have both decided that you are not going to look for a new job. It's time you get some rest and stop disturbing yourself over someone's else job." Sister Ibukun said.

"I know but how will we survive. Ife is in final year; she needs money for her project. Temi is in her second year, Enitan is yet to finish secondary school and we all know your father is not responsible." She said, adding the last bit after a few seconds of silence.

"We are not asking you not to work ma, we just don't want you to do company work anymore. That is why I have decided to give you money to start a trade. Choose something you want to do and find out how much it will cost to begin, I will get it for you." She said

"Haa, thank you my daughter. May God bless you; may your children take care of you like you do for me." She said, as she started to pray for my sister.

I went to bed smiling but not after watching the second season of the movie.

The next two days was fun and it was nice having one of my sisters at home again, we talked about a lot of things and when she asked about school and my friends. I told her they were all fine. She left on Sunday evening since she was going to resume work on Monday.

I had a hard time waking up early the next day since I was already getting used to the holiday but I did anyways. I got to school a bit late than I was used to and I met a lot of my classmates already at school, including Faith and Tayo.

They were laughing and seem oblivious of their surrounding. I muttered a silent good morning to them as I got to my seat but they didn't reply because they didn't hear or maybe they ignored me. I wouldnt know anyways.

Morning devotion was lively and fun since all the teachers were glad to be back in school and since it was a Christian devotion day, there were lots of praise and worship to sing. The principal made his usual boring speech about reading, being a good student and dressing properly before he left the podium, dismissing us.

The day sped by very fast and I left the class to get myself something to eat at break since Faith was not available anymore.

I met Goriola on my way. Goriola is a fellow classmate, she was the pretty girl I had noticed sleeping on my first day in the class. She was the most brilliant girl in the class and due to her pretty face and brains, she was one of the most popular girls both in our class and among the teachers.

I guess that was why I was a bit surprised when she walked up to me and said, Hi Itan.

Hi. I replied. I couldnt believe she knew my name and I was sure my surprise was worn on my face, but If she noticed, she made no mention of it.

Are you by any chance headed to the meat pie stall? She asked as I nod my head in reply, still a bit star struck.

Thank goodness, I hate going there alone. The queue is always maddening. She said as I shook my head to affirm her statement but also to clear my head.

Yea, I know right. Lets go then. I said as we resumed walking, together.

Wheres Faith? She asked, I frown as I wondered if she knew I and Faith were currently not on talking terms and just wanted to get the reason out of me.

Why do you ask? I asked her.

Nigerians, always replying questions with questions. She said, chuckling.

Anyways, I was just asking. You guys are always seen together. The class is planning to host a little award after the first term and the both of you are on the nomination list of friendship goals. She added.

Really! Isnt that like too early, we have barely finished the term and they are planning an award already. I replied, ignoring the fact that I and Faith will probably lose the award because of our quarrel.

Well, you know there will be an end of the year party after our exams so, its just an added incentive. She said as we got to the meat pie stall.

Here we go. She groaned as we got in line. Fortunately, Goriola saw a friend of hers who was already in front of the line and she was able to convince her to help us get the meat pie rather than waiting till forever.

Thank you. We said to the girl as she handed us the meat pie and left the stall to get ice-cream.

So, have you joined any club so far? Goriola asked as we slowly made our way back to the class.

No, I havent gotten round to. I replied, munching on a biscuit I had gotten when we went to get the ice cream.

Ooh, you should though. If you are really interested in joining a club, you should do it soon so that you wont feel like a loner when you join later. It still early, you can make friends at any club now. She advised.

Okay, sure. Thank you. Are you in any group? I asked her.

Yeah, S.R.C (Student Representative Council.) She replied.

Thats cool. I said, as we got to our class.

Okay, guess I will see you around. Later. She said, making her way to her seat. A bit livened up; I had a smile on my face as I got to my seat.

I pondered over what she said and figured it would be a nice to join a club and have other friends so, I decided to tell my mum about it and register later.

I was quietly munching on my meat pie when the bell indicating the end of the break rang.

John, the spokesman of S.R.C entered the class a few minutes later with a guy who looked familiar but at the same time unfamiliar. He was smartly dressed and he had a prefect tag clipped to his shirt.

"Good afternoon class, the teachers are in a meeting so I and the assistant head boy will be coordinating your class. I hope you all know me?" John asked, as some students nodded that they did and others, that the did not.

"Alright, thats fine. For those of you that do not know me, my name is Joh Wellington and I am the spokesman for S.R.C. He introduced himself.

I am David, but I love to call myself Davido. Who doesnt love to dream high, I someday want to tell my woman that 1 billion dollars is a small fund to spend on her. The other guy said with a hopeful expression while we all doubled over in laughter.

"Okay, I am just kidding. My name is David and I am the Assistant head boy. I don't really want the class to be boring because I am not a boring person so, do you guys have any suggestion on what we can do to keep ourselves busy till the teachers are done." He asked us.

"Let's do question session, Male versus female." A guy suggested and more than half of the class agreed.

"Okay, let's do that but please let's all refrain from making noise. Otherwise, I won't hesitate to use my position to punish you. If you have anything you want to say, just raise up your hand." He said. He took the board marker and drew a long line to segment the board then, he wrote female on one side and male at the other.

"Okay, first question for the girls." John said scanning the class till his eyes caught mine. He smiled at me as I returned his gesture with a halfhearted smile, praying I know the answer because I just felt a need not to disappoint him.

"Where is Abubakar Tafawa Balewa university located? " He asked, I scanned my brain as I recalled seeing the answer once in a book. I raised up my slightly shaking hands, hoping my answer was correct because it would have been so embarrassing to get it wrong in front of the whole class.

"Yes, Enitan." John said, smiling softly at me.

"Bauchi." I replied

"Correct!!" David said and the females cheered as we won 5 points.

"Thats my girl! Bode cheered as I shook my head at him.

Shouldnt you be sad since its a competition between male and female? I asked him.

Its no competition girl. We are going to win, Im just glad you personally scored a point. He said.

Never say never. I said to him but, he just smiled at me.

Male, What state is Olusegun Obasanjo from?" He asked, while almost everyone raised up their hands including females.

John pointed to a random classmate who replied with, Ogun state.

"Correct." David replied and wrote 5 points for the guys.

"Ladies, who was the president of Kalakuta republic?" He asked and for a while nobody raised up their hand and when someone finally did, it was Tayo.

"Ladies, this is your last chance, if you are unable to answer the question then we will give the question to the guys and they get 2 mark as bonus." John said, when no female made an attempt to answer. A few minutes later, he indicated to Tayo to reply.

"Fela Anikulapo kuti." Tayo said, the class was as silent as a graveyard as everyone held their breath in anticipation to see if he was correct.

"Correct!!!" David said and the guys hooted in triumph.

The quiz went on for a long time and fortunately, the teachers didn't finish their meeting till closing hours. At the end of the quiz, the guys had 206 points with Tayo answering most of the questions and Females had 160 points with me answering very little of the questions.

Told you it was no competition. Bode whispered in my ears as I packed my books, preparing to go home.

Whatever. I said to him, sighing in defeat as I took my bag and left the class. I was walking past the agricultural teachers office to pass the second school gate home when Mrs. Odunyemi, my present agricultural science teacher saw me and called me.

"Itan, please come. I need you to help me rearrange some books and mark some test scripts in my office." She said, walking back into the staff as I rolled my eyes discreetly and followed her.

"I was a bit taken aback to see Goriola in the office but, I guess it shouldnt have surprised me. She was after all, most teachers choice.

Together we rearranged the books and, between ourselves marking the test scripts was much fun as we chit chatted about random things. It was almost two hours after closing before we rounded up.

The school was already empty and quiet. I could hear the birds chirping as they do in the morning and the suns intensity had lessened over the course of two hours. There were only two teachers left in the office, including Mrs. Odunyemi.

Thank you. She said, looking very relieved as she dismissed us.

"Where do you live?" I asked her.

"Just down the street, before the garage." She replied

"Thats my route also, let's go together." I said, as we left the office.

Lets pass the front gate and we can glance into the classes so; we can get a look at those students that stay late in school and do naughty things. I heard many students do that nowadays.

Well, alright. But, isnt it too late for that though? The school feels empty. I said.

Never say never, you never know for real till you confirm. She replied, as I nodded and we walked towards the front gate. Surprisingly, in 1 of the 3 classes we checked, theres always a girl and boy in one. Some were just chatting but the seniors were bolder as some were kissing and we even came across a girl that was having her breast fondled at the back of a class.

The couple were well hidden that we had thought no one was in the class but, the girl moan was what drew our attention till we finally saw them. We held in our laughter as we left the class quietly.

Immediately we were out in the open, we burst into laughter as we ran in the direction of our class that was nearer to the gate.

I dont think my eye can handle any more, I think its time we go home. Goriola said and I nodded, still laughing as I tried to catch my breath.

Lets check our class. Who knows, we might just find out who the next couples are and add them to the nomination list. I said eagerly as we climbed the staircase of our class block.

I heard Goriolas gasp as she stopped abruptly in front of me. I looked up to see what was happening and I staggered as I saw the scene unfolding in front of me.

Faith? I said, confused. She was trying to lock her lips with Tayos, her arms were around his neck as she pulled him closer.

I dont want to hurt you Faith, let go. Tayo said, his hands were stretched out as he tried to pull her away and it was obvious, even to a newborn that she was forcing the kiss on him and I felt embarrassed.

Faith! I yelled as she released her hold and scrambled away from him.

What! She replied when she realized it was just me.

Has it really come to this. Forcing a kiss on a guy, what happened to your principles? I asked her, feeling ashamed. I couldnt believe my friend would be willing to force a kiss on a guy just to gain his attention and I wondered, How farther can she go?

What principles. Wasnt this what you wanted anyways, for him to hate me and choose you over me but, thats not going to happen Itan. You can keep dreaming but I will never let it happen. She said, carrying her bag and storming out of the class.

I am sorry about that. Shes not a bad person, shes just dealing with a lot. I said, making an excuse for her.

I know, I guess she just took our friendship the wrong way. He said as he picked up his bag also.

Why dont we all leave together then. Goriola said trying to liven up the mood as we all nodded and left the class together.

Im sorry about the drama. I said to Goriola as we exited the school gate.

No problem, girlfriend. Happens all the time among friends. She replied, a big smile on her face.

"Good afternoon mum." I said, entering the house where she was watching a movie in the parlour.

"How was your day?" She asked, turning her head to look at me.

It was fine ma. I said, with a convincing smile. Or maybe not. I thought wryly as she threw me a look.

Enitan. She said.

"Ma." I replied, taking a seat beside her.

"What is wrong with you?" She asked.

"Headache." I lied, taking the easiest way out. I couldnt exactly tell her I and Faith had a fight over a guy. Knowing my mum, she would practically kill me if I tell her I was already thinking or having arguments over a boy.

"Okay, come and eat. So, you can take paracetamol." She said, I nodded as I left the parlor in a bit of a hurry.

That night, I slept late because all I could think of was Faiths expression as she yelled at me earlier. I saw the desperation in her eyes and I couldnt help but wonder if it had really come to that. I wasnt interested in competing with her but, I didnt tell her.

I didnt know what was holding me down but I figured it must be because of the little crush I had on Tayo. However, to save my friendship, I decided to tell her that I wasnt interested and that she could have him the next time we talk.

I woke up late the next day and that brought with it, irritation. I got to school late, missed assembly, got punished for late coming and the whole day felt like a punishment until break.

I was sitting on my chair, barely paying attention to my surroundings and also trying not to doze off when someone tapped me.

Hi. Goriola said, as I rubbed my eyes with my hands.

Short night? She asked.

Yeah, I barely got any sleep. I complained.

I can imagine, sorry. She said, as I nodded.

Thank you. I said.

Want to go get some snack? She asked,

Yes. Lets go. I said, yawning and stretching lightly as I stood up.

Are you okay? She asked, as we left the class.

Yeah sure, why do you ask?

You just seem like you had a lot on your mind. She said.

I am fine, thank you. I said, ending the conversation as we, chit chatted about random things.

Hmmm, Goriola can you please go ahead before me. I want to go to the library. I said on our way back.

Sure, see you around. She said. I stuffed the biscuit and yoghurt I got into my pocket as I walked into the library. I walked down the book shelves as I finally got to the part I wanted, HISTORY. I scanned the books on the shelves before finally picking one titled, Crippled Giant.

The title was fascinating and I felt excited about reading the book as I walked up to the librarian.

Good afternoon sir. I greeted him.

Good afternoon. He replied nonchalantly, uninterested in my greetings.

I would like to borrow this book sir. I said to him. He nodded, and asked for my school identity card as he pointed to the register going through his usual motions of letting out a book to a student.

I exited the library with a happy smile on my face, feeling energized. I was on my way back to the class when I saw Faith making her way back from the mart. Figuring it was the best opportunity for me to talk to her, I waved as I called out her name.

Faith! She looked around randomly as she spotted me. Spotting me, she looked away and kept walking.

Shaking my head at her childish behavior, I ran after her until I got to her. Grabbing her wrist, I stopped her.

What is it? She asked, hissing.

I need to talk to you. I said to her.

About what? How bad a friend I am or how morally wrong it is for me to force myself on a boy? Listen, if you are here to tell me all that then, I am not in the I cut her off as I watch the fire blaze in her eyes. She seemed ready to die for what she wanted and I was ready to support her, I was her best friend after all. So, I did what I should have done a while ago.

I am sorry. I apologized.

Wait, what! She said, taken aback.

That was what I wanted to tell you. I wanted to apologize and also tell you that I am not interested in Tayo. You can have him. I said, a slight smile on my face.

I dont know who you think you are but telling me you are not interested in him is just the height of it. Do you even know what that sounds like? She asked me as I got confused.

Isnt that what you wanted? I asked her, terribly confused.

You know what I want? She asked.

What? I replied.

I want you to stop acting like a coward and actually give me a good competition. She hissed, walking out on me.

Oh God, what am I going to do bayi. Was what I said wrong? I asked myself, sighing as I walked back to class.

I was reading my new book Crippled giant. that evening when I got a notification for a quiz on my phone.

I unplugged my phone from the socket beside the bed as I clicked on the link. Bored, I answered the quiz until an ad pop up on an article with the title, 10 signs to know you like a guy. Unconsciously, I clicked read.

It was later that evening my mom informed me she had finally chosen a trade and had already told my sister about it.

"So, what trade did you decide to invest in." I asked her

"Provisions like Tea, sugar, milk... I heard it is quite profitable so it's better." She said.

"Okay, that is good. So where are you going to be selling it?"

"I am going to get a shop around but I am not getting a stall at the market."

"Why? the market will be better. You will sell more." I said.

"I know but I don't want a too busy environment because of you. You are still young and I don't want you growing up seeing all this street boys or any bad influence, so don't worry." She said with a voice that clearly stated, "no arguments, it's final!"

"Okay ma, no problem. I am going to bed now." I announced.

"Okay my dear. Goodnight."

I loved Fridays and was always happy hence, my happiness this morning. I was still a bit down with the scene that happened between I and Faith, However, I loved Fridays and coupled with my excitement of reading my new book, I was on basically top of the moon.

School was as usual uneventful but gratefully, the day was very short.

I had just finish praying after Jumah and was about to go home when I walked past the front of the class to get to the school's gate.

I noticed Tayo and Bode in front of the class talking. To avoid being rude, I muttered a silent greeting, not stopping.

Hey, Itan. Wait. Bode stopped me.

"What's up." I said.

"Nothing much, I just wanted to return your physics note. Let me go and get it from my bag." He said, hurrying into the class as he left me with Tayo.

"Why are you rushing home?" He started a conversation.

"Hmm?" I asked, confused by his question.

"Never mind." He said.

"Nothing, just read a book and probably sleep." I said, ignoring his previous reply.

"That sound's kinda boring." He said.

"Actually, it's not." I argued, defensively.

"Okay okay, little tiger." He smiled at me, raising his hands up in mock surrender.

"Why don't you come hang out with us?" He asked, the smile still on his face.

"Where are you going?" I asked, my heart beating a little too fast as my mind went back to the article, I read the previous day.

I couldnt believe he was asking me to hang out with him. It might not mean anything to him but staring at his eyes, at that moment. I realized it meant a whole lot to me.

"We are going to the cinema to watch King of boys." He said, putting one of his hand in his pocket.

"Ooh really, that's nice." I muttered as I envisioned my mom beating the hell out of me for going out with a boy without telling her.

"So..." He started.

"I would have loved to but I won't be able to." I said, declining his invite even though deep down, I wished for nothing more.

"Why? Dont tell me you are ditching me for your reading plans?" He asked, lots of emotion flicked through his face before surprise finally schooled his expression.

"I just can't." I said with a tone of finality.

"I really cant believe this but, the offer still stands anytime you are free. He stated as I blurted out.

How about tomorrow?" I asked unconsciously. Realizing what I had said, my hands flew across my mouth to keep it shut but it was too late.

"Yea, Saturday is cool." He replied, chuckling as I nodded, thinking of an excuse to tell my mom.

"What have I done! I thought.

Anyways, why dont you give me your number so I can call or message you." He said bringing out his phone and I was surprised to see he was using iPhone Xmax. I wondered if he was one of the numerous internet fraudsters my mom was always warning me about before I erased the thought from my mind.

"He is way too young for that. My subconscious rolled my eyes at me as I called out my number.

07033371..." I called out the digits as he typed it in his phone.

"It's a date then." He said, a goofy smile on his face. I blushed as Bode finally returned with my note.

"Took you long enough. I rolled my eyes at him, playfully.

Thank you anyways." I added as he shot me a mischievous smile in return.

"You are welcome. He replied.

Goodnight." I said, turning to Tayo who gave me a huge smile as I walk away with an erratic heartbeat.