“Most people are other people. Their thoughts are someone else's opinions, their lives a mimicry, their passions a quotation.” – Oscar Wilde.

•••

“They’re waiting for you outside, like a bunch of goons awaiting outstanding payment from an overlord.”

He sighed, as he pushed the humongous twin-doors open and stepped down from the threshold with Legide. As planned, it was Tuesday, the 22nd November – Lake County’s anniversary day. Twenty years ago, the community as a whole was launched before it grew into the reputable residential landmark that it was known for in present day. It was mandatory for all organizations, irrespective of whatever sector that prevailed over it, to celebrate the holiday by declaring a public holiday for all its residents.

It was duly observed by every citizen, as they all remained in their respective homes to indulge themselves in frivolous activities and take a break from the cut-throat, harrowing day-to-day life that was demanded by the upscale, high-maintenance life they all had to contend with. And the status quo was supposed to extend to him also, but instead he was out here – in school, about to embark on a mission he hadn’t dreamed he’d undertake so early.

Might as well get over it.

To be candid, he hadn’t in anyway anticipated Legide’s action. He wondered why she took that step, without informing him first. Did she know that he’d oppose it, and tell them to postpone it to a later date that wouldn’t interfere with his much needed break? Nah, that sounded ludicrous. He was the one who made the proposition in the first place, she had only taken the step she thought was best. Perhaps, she also hadn’t expected for the time-frame of the undertaking to be brought forward. That was probably it. What other reason could she have?

“I hope they’re not holding weapons or something,” He replied, as they strode out further into the compound. In the far distance, he could see their figures lined horizontally in indeed a uniform manner that caused the flaring and streaking of cold chills, down his spine. He might be a prefect, and the most powerful individual in the room—not exactly in the room, since they were outside in the school’s compound, but that fact didn’t deter them from acting unruly and defying orders. He had a contingency plan for that, though and he was sure it would work. 

“There are many S.S.S.1. Students there, so yeah headache.” Legide swallowed. In the nation as a whole, there was always a bitter spat existing between a class, and the one directly beneath it, in their case the S.S.S. 1 folk. Dealing with them was even a more fazing task, compared to their own mates since the latter would comply due to the friendship existing between them all. “Although I don’t know if I should call it headache, since anytime I see them my stomach starts turning.”

A smirk appeared on his lips. “Oshey, as in butterflies fluttering levels?”

She rolled her eyes. “I still don’t get how butterflies fluttering in someone’s stomach, is supposed to be a nervous feeling. I get irritated, when things fly around me not to talk of inside me. Anyways, I mean my stomach turn in a nauseous way not in a pleasant way. Like in a way it would if you’re about to throw up.”

“Oh, really. Then it appears it wouldn’t be only thrash that we’d be getting rid of today.”

“You’re not serious.” She replied, just as they both ground to a halt on the dispersed crowd of people before them. Before advancing forward to address them, he turned to face her.

“Look, I’m nervous already. I don’t need you to be nervous also. Or, at least just pretend to be strong, okay?”

“Whatever happened to empathy.” Came her reply, as he finally faced his audience. A sea of dour-faced looking teenagers of boys and girls, the former being in a greater number. They all straightened up, and diverted their focus to him as they sensed an address pending.

“Morning,” He clasped his hands. “No need for further unnecessary pleasantries, as I can sense we all here are not happy to be here. Believe me it’s something we all have in common, even myself. I definitely hadn’t thought my morning would start with clearing out thrash for other people, but well—such is life and we’re all here. Now, we can decide to approach this activity with a shitty attitude and not get the work done in time and then return home very late, and back to our detention punishment because eventually at the end of the day I’d give a status report back to the guidance counselor concerning your conduct, and if I complain about it—it wouldn’t take her off your back.

“Or, we could approach it with a good attitude, get it done on time, return home also on time to enjoy whatever’s left of the day and also get taken off the detention punishment. It’s totally your choice to do as you please. Just know, I won’t be begging or screaming at anyone to comport themselves in a disciplined manner. I don’t have energy for that, and you’re all matured people here not kids in kindergarten.

“Now the activity is nothing too serious trust me. I’m sure when you were coming inside, you saw the waste lorry parked outside. There is a driver in it, that would take us around the place as we offload waste into the back of the truck. Most of the waste, would be tied up in nylon and polymer bags so all we’d probably be doing all day, is picking stuff and throwing it into the back of the truck. So, it’s nothing too disgusting that would make your skin crawl. Plus, the clothing we’d be wearing would cover our body quite well and when we’re all done, if you want we could stop at the school here for those that one to take a bath. Any questions?”

Not one person before him budged. They all remained static, and motionless like objects in a picture.

“Okay then, the vicinity we’d be touring is restricted to just a couple of streets. If we’re fast enough, this thing shouldn’t take more than two hours. And this is just…” He paused, lowering his gaze to his watch clasped on his left wrist. “This is just a couple of minutes past Ten. So if we all do good, you’d be back home by noon. Let’s not waste more time, guys? Let’s move. Off to the truck outside.”

As they dispersed, and filed out of the premises to their transport station outside—he stood still, arms akimbo to ensure that every single one of them was moving.

“You didn’t tell them that the school made provisions with Dominos?” Legide’s rich voice, drew his attention. “Food is a great motivation, Tomi. Don’t underestimate its power. I don’t want to know the person, no matter how sick or mentally deranged you are, you can’t hate food.”

He smiled. “You’re right, but I want to be petty. Surely, some would still carry shoulder and form boss, and I want to see that fallen expression on their face when I tell them that they won’t be getting anything because they put in a shitty attitude, oh and of course—the begging that would come afterwards. Let’s not forget that. Very important.”

She shoved him gently on the shoulder. “Who knew you could be so petty?”

“Definitely not the counselor, or else she wouldn’t have put me in this position.” He said, causing her to laugh again. “Let’s join them outside.”

“Sure,” She nodded, her hands latching onto the straps of her bag that lined her shoulders. “So, what did your folks say when you informed them that you’d be going out to help the general community as a whole instead of playing at home and probably holing up on your couch, watching TV or playing video games.”

“They asked me what crime I was serving punishment for,” He replied, and it was the truth. His folks knew he wasn’t much of a selfless person. “It wasn’t like I was expecting them to cheer me on as a hero or something, but my mom didn’t even flinch when I told her. She was going through something on her tab, when I informed her and she just asked me apathetically like it was what happened on a normal day. Like I was used to getting into trouble, and my dad had frowned like I had another sister somewhere I had almost risked losing cos of my carelessness of misplacing her inhaler.”

“Oh, wow.” Legide said. “Surely, they still don’t blame you for what happened?”

“Hmm, what do you call a situation, where things have pretty much returned to its normal state but yet they keep referring to the past multiple times? That’s what it’s like. Like, just be angry with me if you want to be. Don’t be on the fence.”

He suddenly felt warmth, graze his left shoulder owing to Legide’s action of placing her right hand there. “It’d take a while for them to forget, but they would. Everyone knows what happened that day isn’t your fault. Anyway, enough talks about sad topics. Today is pathetic enough with the activity ahead of us, no need to compound it.”

“Got it.” And they tried as much as possible, to ensure that their further topics of discussion didn’t venture out of frivolous, humorous topics for the rest of the day.

*****

“Hit me.”

“Keep on saying hit me like that, and I might actually forget you’re ordering me to give you a drink and not to hit you in the face.”

Rena smirked, as her fingers curled around the glass and her gaze sunk deep into the ocean of red swirling liquid that drizzled down into the cup. Signaling that it was filled, she raised it to her lips and gulped it all down at once, before slamming the empty cup on the drink stand again.

“You know what to do.”

“Yeah, call someone to come and check in on you. What’s your problem?”

“What’s your problem?” Her brows rose. “This is not even alcohol, and you’re acting like I could get drunk. More so, you’re not standing here to question why I’m drinking so much. It’s to pour me drinks. If that was your purpose, I’d have placed a guidance counselor’s tag somewhere on the table.”

Her addressee, folded her arms and scoffed. “And you’re talking like you’re paying me, and I’m not just doing this out of goodwill.”

“Goodwill of who, Foluke? Of yourself you mean. So you can have direct access to the drinks yourself, and have no one question you as you drink away your sorrow. And also take some home. Don’t think I didn’t see you some couple of minutes ago when you were hunched over, leaning into your bag and reaching out for some bottles here.”

“Hey, everyone takes stuff home.” Foluke frowned. “Besides, earlier on you announced that there is enough to go around and that everyone should leave with their bellies full and even protruding. You didn’t clarify that that didn’t extend to my bag, you know. I fully ensure to leave here with its own belly full also.”

“You’re silly.”

Foluke shrugged, leaning closer to Rena to peer deeper into her eyes. She could sense an admonition or inquiry lined up already. Too late, she couldn’t make a run for it anyway. The living room was so filled to the brim with people, that one couldn’t walk a couple of inches without ramming into someone else in rather disturbing places.

“But what is up, though?” The much expected question came, as Foluke’s eyes were now trained on her, her palms – flattened and propped on the cabinet. “Why are you drowning your sorrows in Eva wine? You know it’s not effective, no matter how much you pretend it’d be.”

Rena shrugged. “Just not a good day, I guess.”

“If it’s not a good day, then indeed something happened to make it bad. So what’s that thing?”

Rena bit her lower lip, contemplating thoughts on opening up to Foluke. Her reason on being hesitant wasn’t owing to the fact that their relationship wasn’t that intimate, no it was far from that. It was simply because the thing troubling her, was of petty countenance and her friend would probably tag it as silly and incredulous. She didn’t want to be judged.

“Is the matter similar to those in spy movies, where if you spill, they’d have my head on a plate also?” Foluke continued. “If it’s so, just never mind. Keep it to yourself, and I’d keep pouring the drinks and even serve you someone’s head on a plate if you want.”

She smiled genuinely, Foluke was indeed a good friend but she just couldn’t reveal the details of her turmoil to her. She wouldn’t understand. Speaking about the people in her life that could understand, they were pretty much occupied at the moment to be concerned about her wellbeing. April and Moyin, of course being the people in reference.

Although to the defence of April, she didn’t have much time for anyone in particular as she was too busy entertaining everyone. In fact, if there was a new student in their midst—logic would have dictated that they think April was the host of the party and not her, due to her upscale activity ranging from going about to engage everyone in a conversation and also going about to engage everyone in a conversation. There was pretty much nothing else she was doing and Moyin on the other hand, seemed to be enjoying the company of Mofiyin quite well. If she wasn’t mistaken, she’d say her friend was taken by the dork but what did she know about feelings, when she couldn’t even sort hers out properly.

“Thanks, Folu.” She said once again, addressing the concerned friend before her. “It’s just a mild headache. It’d surely pass.”

Before Foluke could reply, an intruder slid into the stool next to her and cast a part amused, part scrutinizing look on her.

“Who and what is passing?” Moyin said, snapping her fingers in the direction of Foluke, apparently signifying that the girl pour her a drink. The latter rolled her eyes, but went about the action nonetheless. They were all in a secluded corner of the wide, spacious posh living room of Rena’s apartment where the drink stand was mounted. The music was dimmed, in their section of the room but the siren of multiple ongoing conversation and general chatter was still audible.

“I thought you said you did well on all your tests. Which one is this one about not passing again.”

“Ode, were we talking about tests?” Rena resisted the urge to roll her eyes, while Moyin sipped on the drink – Foluke had just poured her. “See just go back to where you’re coming from. Don’t leave the dude hanging. You know he is the only, you know—peculiar person in this gathering. The next person he is probably interested in after you here, is probably one of the nerds in one of your novels lying about this place.”

Moyin set her cup, and turned on her friend. “That’s offensive. But let’s ignore that for now. Let’s talk about you and what got you offended. Oh and FYI, y’all should cut the crap with the funny glares you throw my way whenever I’m talking with Mofiyin. It’s purely platonic, nothing more–”

“That’s what they all say at first–” Foluke cut in.

“I know that’s what you’d say, and although it doesn’t make it less cliché than it is but it is simply the truth, okay? I’m not in any way attracted to Mofiyin at all. He doesn’t have any funny effect on me, at all. It’s simply normal with him. I don’t know about him, but I feel it’s mutual also. I know when I’m attracted to someone believe me, and I know I’m not into Mofiyin.”

“Is someone taking shots?” Rena arched her brow. “I know my feelings, dumbass but what would you know about feelings? You don’t feel funny with him? Are you expecting it to feel like how those American authors describe it in your novels? With the electricity sparking and the butterflies fluttering or whatever? It’s not that dramatic, miss. At least for us.”

“Shut up, that’s not what I mean.” Moyin snapped. “It’s not that deep, but there still has to be some sort of spark. There is nothing like that with Mofiyin, it’s just that static. Look, fine I might be a dork and all but I’m still attracted to normal, regular guys. Not regular, regular like Dabby and Itunu—more like regular still smart, like Tomi.”

Rena furrowed a brow.

“Ehen, so just because you like him—others aren’t even allowed to talk about him. O ga o. Just place trademark sign on him or something else that would indicate he is taken, when he is really not because y’all are just friends. Matter of fact, if he’s taken currently as in his attention and activity then it would mean Legide owns him. Their community service ish must have started by now.”

Rena stifled a growl, and sent Moyin a withering look before comprehension dawned on Foluke. Best friends, she thought. Never, ever fail to hit the nail on the head. Couldn’t she had sensed the need to be discrete on the matter, or at least conceal the details a bit but no she had to lay it out exactly the way it was, and even spice it up.

Of course, her disconsolate state was owing to the fact that Tomi wasn’t at the party and was busy frolicking with Legide at wherever location they were, doing whatever in a bid of tagging it as a community service. For all she knew, Legide could have lied about the details to them including Tomi, and actually have him bounded in ropes, against his will and hurl him straight to some sort of prison or a location where it could be only her and him together.

Oh, the rest of the student population thought Legide was all innocent, pure with her untainted spirits. If only they knew half of what she knew about everyone in the school, then they wouldn’t have such a righteous notion lodged into their head. But there was no need to dredge up unnecessary hatred. Legide was no bad person, in fact there was hardly a difference existing between the both of them. They were both two popular persons who had feelings for a guy, that were utilizing every weapon in their arsenal in making him reciprocate said feelings. It all depended on him, eventually.

Still, she couldn’t help but feel like this was some duel and that she was losing woefully.

“Oh, so that’s what all this is about?” Foluke folded her arms, apparently finding the entire thing amusing like Rena had guessed. “And here I was thinking all the times you were saying hit me, you were just referring to me giving you a drink not knowing you were actually painting a picture in your head where you actually wanted to hit someone. Legide, I’m guessing for hoarding Tomi all to herself like she owns him.”

“It’s not that.” She grunted. Great, now she had two not-so-empathetic friends meddling with her state of mind. “Okay, fine it’s that but that’s not why I’m dull. C’mon, they’re not having sex. They’re just hanging out. I’m extra dull, because there is nothing appealing here. I didn’t realize parties could be this boring.”

“Parties aren’t boring,” Moyin said. “And coming from someone like me, that should mean something. It’s only this boring for you because you so had your mind set on hanging out with Tomi throughout the entire thing, in fact he is the reason for this entire thing. The party is just a charade to get him to come down here, to probably where you intend to lure him to your bedroom to rape him.”

“Don’t be vile.” She frowned. “That’s what we have April for.”

“Viler ni,” Moyin hissed. “I know you, Rena Ilori. Sometimes better than you know yourself, so stop pretending and fess up to your crime, okay? I can relate to this sort of situation. I’ve experienced it several times.”

“Really? You’ve had intense feelings for a dude, and know that someone else, a girl to be specific, is enjoying his company?” Foluke asked.

“No, not me.” Moyin’s head jerked backward, like Foluke had just said she had grown a penis. “I mean several times it has happened to the characters in–”

“In the books you read, we really get it and it’s totally the same thing.” Rena rubbed her forehead in dismay. “Well, you’re right. He was the point of this entire party. I knew it would be extremely weird to invite him over here to my place, even if we’re still friends. Sure, other guys would jump at the offer and would even pack their bags and ask if they could come live with me but not him. I needed a reason. And so inviting everyone else was the easiest and quickest route.”

“You poor thing,” She felt Foluke’s thumb graze her left cheek softly, as her gaze remained glued to the cabinet. “Well, we can only hope for the best. Pray to God to guide and protect him, and hope fervently that they’re not in the process of giving birth to a—you know, Sheldon-esque person. Now that wouldn’t be good.”

“That’s not helping.” Rena said.

“That’s the point,” Moyin said. “It’s not supposed to help, because nothing can help yourself more than you can. There is nothing you can do. You just have to wait for them to finish, and see if he would still head down here. Although knowing Legide, I don’t think so. But still Tomi is a modest person. I think he’d have some resistance up.”

“That’s the problem.” Rena pointed out. That modesty of his, it held more danger than it did good. “Sometimes, he is just so ignorant to the point that it’s really cute. I just hope she doesn’t take advantage of it, cos he could be pretty gullible on things like this. Oh damn it.”

“Why does it sound like there is a dab of regret in your voice?” Moyin leaned on the stool. “Like you’re regretting something, regretting not taking advantage of him, perhaps. Knowing that Legide is about to do the same?”

Was that it?

Multiple occasions had arose, where she could have definitely abused in her quest of making him – hers, but she hadn’t because she wanted to play it safe, and she thought with time he’d catch on to it and know what she was up to. She hadn’t gone the extra mile, simply because she hadn’t thought at the moment that there was an immediate threat not because she didn’t want to. So could she be regretting not treading that path in accomplishing her goal? Moyin’s point held reason.

“I don’t take advantage of people,” She frowned, and it was partly the truth. She had never had the reason to, since everyone usually fell at her feet to do her bidding without much stress. Not because she couldn’t. “I don’t know, I just feel something fishy is going on. I mean, didn’t you see the expression on his face when she told him? He wasn’t in anyway expecting it. She just did it impromptu, she probably has something planned.”

“Even if she has something planned, how effective could it be in the space of a couple of hours?” Foluke asked. “They’re not spending more than the time they’d spend today exclusively, so what thing could she do today that’d deal the final blow and would be everlasting? Even if they’re both health prefects, and she had that time to use – it’d still be a step by step thing. There is still a lot of work for her to do before she can consider the battle won.”

“That doesn’t make it any easier.” Rena said.

“But it also points out the fact that you still have time on your side, miss.” Moyin smiled. “The battle is far from being won by her, same goes for you. Christ, look at us. Talking about battle like it pass ordinary boy feelings. Rena you make me do pathetic things, I swear.”

“What are friends for?” She smiled, noncommittally.

“Definitely to give each other helping hands,” Foluke interjected, facing Moyin. “How about you man this stand for me, I think I might just punch Rena in the face the next time she says hit me. Plus, no be only una get fish wey dem dey sight. Me self I have. Excuse me.”

Rena’s eyes followed Foluke, as she headed back to the crowded section of the room. “You know the fish she is talking about?”

“Definitely not as tasty as this one,” Moyin replied, rubbing her hands together as she retrieved a saucer from a dish rack and proceeded to placing a piece of fried fish that got handed over to her by another passing classmate of theirs into the saucer. “Oh nothing beats fish and juice. Want some?”

“Nah, I’d pass.” The sight seemed nauseous for some reason.

“Ha! Like I was going to give you self.” Moyin said, a fork and knife now in hand ready to ply the fish apart. After doing so, she slid a piece into her mouth and munched in glee, closing her eyes momentarily. “Good stuff, Rena. Good stuff. You see life is so much easier when you forget all about your boy problems and just eat good food. I’ve given you this advice several times, but yet you keep on ignoring it. When are you going to listen to me?”

“Definitely not after you’ve burnt your entire mouth with the amount of hot stuff you’re consuming right now. Just take it easy. April isn’t going to appear from nowhere and throw it into her mouth. She’s too busy molesting that Tomi’s friend, Alexis or what’s his name again.”

Mofiyin laughed gently, poured herself a glass of water from a pitcher nearby and dabbed at her oily lips with a napkin. “Yeah, I wonder what’s her deal with him. The guy is definitely not her type. He isn’t bad-looking, but he isn’t all that either. I don’t know maybe her game has changed sha.”

“I don’t know how to tell her to stop her nonsense, though.” Rena said. “I don’t want a situation to come in the future where the guy would hate April, and then in turn extend those bitter feelings to Tomi. I know how it is between friends like that. I wouldn’t want Tomi to like me any less just because my friend broke his friend’s heart.”

“You know, when you say stuff like that. It makes me reminisce and wonder how we’ve been surviving all these years with April that way. But that’s why she is April, and that’s why you’re Rena and I’m Moyin. We all have our roles to play, okay? Everything would be fine and would all work out eventually. In the mean time, heads up Itunu has finally breached our security.”

Oh, God.

Her head whipped in the direction Moyin was motioning at, and indeed it was Itunu in his all, tall, dark, imposing glory heading towards them. Despite, the bitter feelings she harbored for him currently she couldn’t help but still admire his appearance. He was dressed in a simple maroon wool sweatshirt, over black faded jeans and brown Chelsea boots. The looks, he always had them going for him if only he could top it with the tiniest bit of sense.

“Where the hell are you going? Don’t you leave?” She squealed in dismay, as she watched Moyin drift away into the crowd with a smug smile on her face. “Moyin!”

“You’d be fine. You don’t like listening to me anyway. Have fun.” She watched her friend vanish in the other direction, just before swirling around to face her nemesis. Ever since, the brief squabble at the pool-house—their relationship had become strained and forced. She hadn’t apologized, and so all their interactions had been inorganic. She had no problem with that of course, and was even enjoying it but not him. He obviously intended to rectify that.

“Hey, you. It’s been a while.” He said, as he stopped right in her front.

Sure, it has.

*****

“What’s your name again, sir?”

“Tomi. Tomi Adeiye.” He replied, and the receptionist resumed her conversation with the person on the other end of the line, who he knew without doubt in his heart was the counselor. Of course, the staff here had to confirm that they were truly on the slate reserved by the school and weren’t just a bunch of impostors. After what it seemed like the expiration of one more minute, the receptionist slammed the phone back into the cradle and looked up at him with a rather, disapproving glare that said a lot about her not enjoying giving them what was rightfully theirs.

Oh, so you just want free money?

“You and your people should settle down, your orders would be arriving shortly.” She said rather saucily, but he couldn’t care less about the tone of her voice. He was starving, and was really craving for that pizza.

“Sure, thanks.” He said, before striding over to the end of the room, gesturing and ushering his mates into seats. The interior of the restaurant, just like every other Domino division was decorated with brown-brick wallpapers, that exuded a 3-D effect, that coupled with the largely intricate glass dominance and antiquated furniture. It defined cotemporary class.

As they moved into their reserved tables, Legide stepped forward to join him. “I should go upstairs, and place order for ice-cream.”

“Really? I thought it was only pizza.” He said.

“It was supposed to be, but then we were supposed to have a light snack breakfast in the morning and we didn’t because they showed up late. So I saved the money and thought we could have ice-cream, since I know there would surely be a Cold-stone creamery branch situated at the top of every Dominos.”

“Okay, fine. But do you think they’d give us immediately, though? They have this nagging habit of being late. That’s why they ask you to make reservations for this type of things.”

She shrugged. “I know a guy there, plus we’d be ordering in bulk so that should encourage them. Would be back in a jiffy.” She finished with a light pat on his shoulder, before heading out to begin her mission. He wished her success though, although he wasn’t a fan of ice-cream—anything would be nice to top the pizza with.

He settled into the table, that was left for only him and Legide eased into the chair. He was indeed exhausted, as the activity had drained more energy from him than he had prepared for. It went very smoothly though. As the task-force under him, complied quite willingly and there was no standout unruly person amongst them. Their faces had only lighted up when he told them that the counselor had made reservations to take care of their lunch.

Thinking back to the activities of the day, he felt compelled to agree with himself that it was enjoyable somewhat. Not the type of pleasure he had envisioned initially, but still pleasure nonetheless. Legide was great company, and he had enjoyed every facet of her company and wasn’t in anyway exhausted yet.

The party.

The thought of the ongoing, celebratory gathering flashed in his mind. The one, Rena herself had requested, exclusively for him to attend. To be candid, in the brief moment that spanned her asking preceding Legide’s announcement, he had indeed been elated at the prospect of the gathering. It was like the thrill had evaporated into the air, as the thought hadn’t crossed his mind all day. It was all discombobulating, his thoughts on these matters. One moment, he was longing for Rena’s company, and the next – Legide’s. Was it possible to have the same nature of feelings towards two separate people. It surely wasn’t possible. One was legitimate, while the other was simply not—just befuddling.

He had to figure out which was real.

“Hey, so it was as successful as I hoped.” Legide’s voice brought him out of his trance, as she smiled down at him taking the seat opposite his. “I’d be going back in a few, with some of the other guys to bring them down. I hope there isn’t some sort of law that we can’t bring stuff in here? But it’s Cold-stone, right? Aren’t they in some sort of conjunction? Anyhoo, that’s, that. Why are you looking like you’re trying to remember something that you forgot, that’s important?”

He shrugged, settling back into his seat. “Never mind, it’s nothing important. I was actually trying to remember if I had forgotten something important, but then I just remembered that if I had forgotten something important, I would have remembered. It’s just the day was more tiring than I expected, but at least the guys didn’t prove to be a piece of work. They complied willingly.”

“Yeah, your little speech did get to them. I don’t blame them, anyone who has been in detention for just one day would so want out. It’s basically hell, I’ve not been in it but passing by and watching them suffer gives me pain. You’re basically not allowed to do anything. Even read, or do your assignments, not even sleep. You’re just supposed to shut up, sit down and keep quiet. Worst type of punishment. And at the smallest falter, your time would get increased. Once you said that good attitude would get the work done on time thing, I knew it would work on them.”

“Oh, wow I didn’t know it was that bad. Well, now they’ve been saved. Cos I’m definitely putting in a good word for every single one of them. You also, look very exhausted.”

“Well, I am.” Her eyes widened in a matter-of-fact manner. “The news of our heroic deeds better gets to the ears of my mom, so she could at least cut me some slack with house work when I get home cos she was saying I was only running out of the house because we had folks coming over in the evening and we had stuff to do in the kitchen and that I was leaving her alone. One of the reasons I don’t want to go back home too early. Maybe after when we’re done here, and get back to the school—we could hang out some more before I head back home. That’s if, it’s okay by you of course.”

His jaw clenched. He had actually made a mental note, to head to Rena’s house after this and had even texted Alexis on Whatsapp for directions since he was there, and pretty much everyone else but somehow when he opened his mouth to reply, he found himself saying something else.

“Sure, I’m not in a hurry to go anywhere also. Getting home in the evening would be quite fine.”

“Alright,” She switched on her exuberant smile. He didn’t exactly know if he had made the right decision, in agreeing in her wish of dalliance but that smile brought an end to all his worries. “So what flavor of ice cream do you like best?”

“Oh, I don’t know. Isn’t that too much work asking everyone what flavor they want? Can’t you just get a fan favorite one.”

She laughed. “Hell no, I’m not asking everyone. Just you, and then myself but I already know what I want. I’d be taking a fan-favorite for everyone just like you said. Don’t give me that look, it’s one of the perks of being in charge. So once again, what flavor do you want?”

“I’m not an ice cream person, Legide. Anything that is good, I’d take.”

“You’d be having what I’d be having then.” She said, as she rose to her feet once more and left to retrieve their orders. It wasn’t long after she left, that vibration began thrumming in his thighs and his electro-pop infused ringtone rang out. Quickly, he brought out the phone from his pocket and swiped to pick the call.

It was Alexis.

“Guy, howfar?”

“I’m good, just hanging in there. We rounded up with the ish not so long ago, and now we’re just chilling at Dominos getting ready to be served ice cream and pizza. Oh, the pizza is here already self.”

“Ha! Us, we’ve eaten to our own fill of pizza and ice cream here and there is just so much more. Rena said it would just be a small gathering, where we would just chill and play music but the number of people here, and food available, I can’t help but imagine just how big something she’d call a real party would be.”

“Really? So you’re having fun, huh? What about Mofiyin?”

“Last I saw him he was talking with Moyin, he’s fine also.”

“Hmm, last you saw him? So you guys have not been hanging out together, abi? Who have you been hanging out with then if he’s been with Moyin all day.”

There was a brief pause punctuated with shuffling noises.

“And I’m guessing from your pause it’s definitely April you’ve been hanging out with, right? Am I wrong?”

“No, look Tomi. It’s nothing–”

“It’s truly nothing o. It’s nothing. I’m not saying more on the matter. I’ve officially taken my hand off it. Consider me apathetic and not bothered. I’ve sha told you my own. I can’t say more than that. How about I hang up so you can resume your much cherished conversation? I’m even surprised you made out time to even call.”

“Don’t be petty, she hasn’t been with me all day. She’s actually been talking to a l—I mean she’s been busy–”

“Busy, my ass. Alexis. She’s been talking to a lot of people, boys to be specific. Of course, she’d do that. That’s why she is April Iben. It’s still funny how you  decide to be stupid despite watching her as she moves about the place and–”

“She has spent more time in my company, than anyone else here.”

He stifled a chuckle. “And so? It means you’re special? And maybe, she might actually have genuine feelings for you and you’re different from the rest? My friend, that’s your cue to run as far away as possible as you can from her. Since she has marked you as the main prey, but no knowing as stupid as you are, you won’t listen to my advice.”

Alexis sighed. “What do you want me to do? If I stay away from her, she’d just come to me. Which is pretty much what I’ve been doing ever since, B-T-W. I’ve been staying away but yet she keeps coming. It’s not exactly my fault.”

“Yes, it’s the fault of that thing between your legs, fool. You have a choice, stay away or indulge. No one is making that decision for you. If she comes to meet you, you can act uninterested and apathetic and she wouldn’t pursue further. She’s only coming back  because you’re encouraging her and you know it. But once again, officially none of my business as I’ve now taken myself off it. On your next break from her, sha tell Rena if you see her that I might not show up again. I’m too exhausted.”

“Too exhausted to meet a pretty girl who wants your company?”

Another one got me holed up here.

“Hey, some of us actually have control over our emotions, okay? Now buzz off. Deliver the message o, guy.”

“I’ve heard.”

And then the line hung up.

Almost simultaneously, Legide walked back in with the few people she had taken up and began organizing the distribution. After a while, she began heading back to him with two cylindrical-shaped mugs scrawled with Cold-stone imagery. Placing one in his front, she settled into her seat and he also did the same by sliding her a saucer containing two slices of pizza.

“You were on the phone?” She asked, much to his surprise. He didn’t know she had been that close.

“Oh, yeah, I was. With Alexis.” He replied, but the expression on her face hinted that she was expecting more than that. “We were talking about the party going on at Rena’s place and all. He said the place was pumping, and that I’m dulling here. I told him that this place is pumping enough, and that he should mind his business. We talked about other inconsequential topics I’d rather not fill you in on.”

“I understand,” She laughed, scooping up ice cream into her mouth with her plastic spoon-sized shovel. “Ella too is also there. She must be having a blast also, judging by the fact that she hasn’t called me all day. She is quite the caller, that girl. But of course, you prefer being here right? And not being in such atmosphere. I’d choose this serene place anytime, any day.”

“Sure, I like serenity and all but when you say such atmosphere?” He sat up, as he bit gently on a slice of pizza. “You say it like they’re at some sort of night club where people are skinny dipping and some are popping weed. It’s just a gathering where they’re playing music. I doubt if there is even going to be alcohol. Even if there was, it’s an afternoon something—so…”

He was kind-off surprised, at the way he jumped to the defense of Rena’s little occasion. There was nothing wrong with Legide’s point from his point of view, on a regular day he’d agree with her but the fact that her scrutiny was directed at Rena, ignited the need to jump to her defense. Whatever it meant.

“Well, still what are they doing there if not what we know they all do.” Legide rolled her eyes. “We know their package, na. Is it today? Even in school, they know how they do their stuff. They’d clear everyone out of the class, simply because they want to have meeting. Sure, there is a meeting going on, but that meeting is more of contact than actual talking.”

He forced a smile, and bit down hard on his pizza – directing his anger on it. Why did she have to be so judgmental? Sure, Rena and her group weren’t the set of people who had the highest moral compass, but neither was Legide and her crew also. Everyone was afflicted in their own way with flaws.

“What they do is none of my business,” He replied finally. Not wanting to brew grounds for argument, at the same time not wanting to join in the slandering of his friend. “If I was there, I’d just make sure I’m having a good time and enjoy myself in my own way. Anybody can be doing whatever they like in however way they please.”

“Yeah, sure it’s their life. They could ruin it if they want.” She shrugged. “Anyway, how’s the ice cream, do you like it?”

He frowned, unable to keep his feelings in check. “I wouldn’t know, since I haven’t tried it yet. What do you mean by ruin? How’s having a little fun by having folks over ruining their lives?”

Her eyes widened. “Oh, c’mon don’t be naïve. I’m talking about their usual life, not just today. We know how they all party, and drink and waste their time doing stuff that would amount to nothing. Surely, you know all these. Or what exactly is your opinion about them?”

“I don’t know, not really sure. But I have an opinion on this, your scrutiny on their type of life. It’s what they call being judgmental and its not nice. Last I checked, you weren’t friends with any of them and you don’t know enough about their life to assume reasons as to why they do what they have to do.”

“Oh, no need to get all worked up. It’s just the simple truth. I’m not overstating or exaggerating things, am I? And I didn’t call anyone anything they weren’t? Did I? How’s that being judgmental–”

“By assuming your way of life is more, I don’t know – righteous? And that you’re the better person. Fine, I’m not saying I don’t see your point or that their actios are exactly productive, but I don’t think partying can stop anyone from being serious if they want to. Just because someone doesn’t party, doesn’t automatically make them serious either. It’s as simple as that. The truth is a matter of perspective, you can’t have this opinion that yours should suit everyone. You have to try and look at it from their view point also and reason with them. Not crucify them from afar.”

“Wow, you’re really getting defensive aren’t you?” Legide had stopped eating, and was now staring at him wide-eyed. “I’m sorry, for judging your friends it wasn’t as I intended really.”

He shrugged. “Let’s not dwell much on it.”

“Okay,” She nodded, and then they resumed their meal. An uncomfortable silence settled as a result of the friction that stemmed from their previous disagreement. The words she had spoken hadn’t done much in building on the great rapport that had grown between them since morning, and for some reason the thought of extending the time spent with her lost its element of thrill.

“Oh, and also I don’t think I’d be able to hang out around in the school after we leave here. I’d be leaving once we arrive.”

She studied him with an expression that hearkened to hurt, before she bit her lower lip and nodded. But that wasn’t going to change his mind. His mind was already set on another destination entirely.

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There goes the 12th chapter, I hope it was sumptuous. What do you think about this new side of Legide, Tomi has just discovered. Does that make you change ship if you were probably shipping them before? How about Rena and Itunu. How do you think they’re conversation is going to end.

One way to find out guys, Tune in next week—same time. Don’t forget to drop a comment, and tap that star before you leave.

Also, tag your friends, family or anyone else you might know on here.

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Glossary:

Vernacular Interpretation.

Yoruba Sentences:

1. O Ga O – Used to informally emphasize the fact that something is really serious or shocking. Like the word – ‘wow’ when its used for such purpose.

Pidgin English:

1. No be only una get fish – It’s not only you that has fish. The fish in the statement referring to a person of the opposite sex that sight has been set on.

Others.

1. We know their package – Literally means, we know how they operate.