𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐀 𝐔𝐃𝐔𝐀𝐊-𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐈 𝐔𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐆
╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍╍

“Sonia, do fast na,” my mum called from the living room, her voice sharp and impatient.

“I’m coming! I’m almost ready,” I called back, forcing urgency into my tone.

Truthfully, I wasn’t anywhere close to ready. Clothes were scattered all over the room like a whirlwind had passed through, and my suitcase was still buried somewhere under the mess. I hadn’t even started packing.

Just then, Derrick barged into the room without knocking. His words caught in his throat as he stood frozen in the doorway, surveying the chaos that surrounded me. His expression was a mix of disbelief and exhaustion.

He let out a heavy sigh, placing both hands on his hips as he turned to face me. “Why are you like this, Sonia? I called you yesterday and told you to get your things ready. You said you’d do it later because you were busy binge-watching The Vampire Diaries. And now this?” He gestured around dramatically.

I shrugged, trying to defend myself even though I knew I had no real excuse. “It’s not entirely my fault. In my head, I totally handled this. But... reality didn’t exactly cooperate.”

Derrick gave me a long, unimpressed look. “Yeah. No shit, Sherlock,” he muttered, rolling his eyes.

“Your flight leaves in one hour and forty minutes. How exactly do you plan to pack and make it to the airport on time?” Derrick asked, his voice heavy with exhaustion.

“You know what? We’ve got this,” he continued, trying to uplift the mood. “Just pack the core items first. If we make it to the airport by God’s grace, we’ll figure out the rest. Worst case, we’ll get you some new clothes when you arrive.”

I let out a weary sigh and collapsed onto the bed, the weight of everything finally hitting me. “I’m sorry, Derrick. I’m just scared. What if the university isn’t what I expected? What if it doesn’t meet my standards? And I don’t want to leave you…”

He paused, his features softening as he looked at me.

“So this is what it’s really about,” he said gently. “I thought we already talked about this.”

“I know,” I whispered. “But what if things don’t go as planned? I love you, Derrick. I don’t want to be far away from you.”

Tears streamed down my face before I could stop them.

“Hey, none of that,” he said, sitting beside me and reaching out to wipe my tears with his thumb.

“What kind of boyfriend would I be if I told you not to follow your dreams? To just stay with me forever and forget your future? That wouldn’t sit right with me,” he said, his voice calm and steady. “And I promise—I’m not going anywhere. We’ll make this long-distance thing work. Together.”

He took my hands in his and gently rubbed them, kissing me on my forehead and lips, offering a sense of calm that I desperately needed.

Harvard University here I come.

╳°»｡ ∾･⁙･ ღ ➵ ⁘ ➵ ღ ･⁙･∾ ｡«°╳

When we finally finished packing, we headed downstairs—only to find my mother waiting in the living room, in the company of my dad and my friends.

The look on her face said it all. She was clearly not pleased with how much time I’d wasted.

“Your flight leaves in forty minutes. If you like don’t hurry, you will trek all the way to the USA,” she snapped, snatching up her car keys and storming off, likely to get the car ready.

“Congratulations, Sonia! These are for you!” Flora squealed, bouncing toward me with a bouquet of flowers and a bunch of red and white balloons.

“Yes, congrats!” Zainab added with a warm smile. “You’re the first among us to gain admission. We’re so proud of you and we wish you all the best.”

“Aww, guys, this is so sweet,” I said, already feeling tears pricking at the corners of my eyes. “Come here—group hug!”

I pulled them all into a tight embrace, trying to memorize everything about that moment.

“Omo, make we just go back school jare,” Dexter muttered, blinking rapidly and looking away. “I no like all this departure thing.”

“You that was the same person who was cursing out the school just four months ago?” Desmond shot back, raising a brow. “Abeg, no start.”

“Sha, anyhow... Sonia, please don’t forget us,” Dexter said, his voice shaky as he fought back tears.

“Of course I won’t,” I replied with a smile. “Why would I forget the people who had my back in that prison called school?”

That cracked everyone up, laughter erupting like a much-needed relief valve.

But it didn’t last.

A deliberate cough cut through the room, pulling our attention toward my dad, who was seated quietly in the corner. I had almost forgotten he was still there.

Even though I’d forgiven him for everything that happened in the past, we still weren’t exactly on speaking terms. There was a quiet distance between us, one that years of silence hadn't quite healed.

“We’ll see you outside,” Kelechi said softly, giving my hand a reassuring squeeze before she and the others slipped out, leaving the two of us alone.

“Sonia. . .” my dad said, his voice low.

“I don’t really know what to say,” he began, pausing for a breath. “Other than the fact that I’m proud of you. And that I’m disappointed in myself… for not being there—watching you grow, pushing you forward. I’m sorry. Again.”

“Dad it's really okay. I believe with time things between us will get better.” I say, giving him a small smile reassuring him then proceeded to hug him.

It felt good to be in his arms again.

I do hope that things eventually get better between us.

********

“Oya, do fast. Your flight will start boarding any moment now,” my mum said, handing me my luggage with a quick glance at her phone.

I took the bags from her, adjusted the strap on my shoulder, and turned to walk toward the departure gate.

But just as I took a step forward, her voice called me back.

“Sonia, wait…”

I paused, turning around slowly. Her face had softened. The usual urgency in her tone was gone, replaced by something much quieter and emotional, almost quivering.

She walked up to me and took my hand, holding it tightly. “I just want to say that I’m proud of you.”

I didn’t say anything. I couldn’t. My throat was already tightening.

“You went through so much, Sonia,” she continued, her voice thick with emotion. “There were times I didn’t even know how you managed to keep going. People doubted you, mocked you... there were whispers, laughter, even from those close to us. But you kept your head up. You fought. You pushed forward—not to prove a point, but because you believed in yourself. And today, look at you. You're flying out to start a new chapter.”

She paused, and I saw the tears brimming in her eyes, threatening to spill.

“I still can’t believe it sometimes,” she said, shaking her head gently. “That my daughter—the same little girl who used to carry before school every Monday—is now traveling across the world to chase her dreams.”

My heart swelled. I blinked quickly, trying to keep my own tears at bay.

“I need you to know that no matter where you are, no matter how far away, I’m always here for you. You’ll never be alone. And I’ll keep praying for you, supporting you, cheering for you—even when you can’t see me.”

She let go of my hand and opened her arms, and I fell into them without hesitation. She held me close, tightly, like she was trying to press every ounce of her love into that single embrace.

“I love you, mummy,” I whispered, my voice shaking.

“I love you too, my daughter. Always.”

S E V E N • Y E A R S • L A T E R
﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

“Ladies and gentlemen of the court,” Sonia said, stepping forward with calm authority, her eyes scanning the room.

“My client is not guilty. The true criminal is the man who attempted to drug her and planned—with his friends—to violate her. That man is Victor Dolapo.”

She took a breath, her voice unwavering.

“The evidence is clear. The voice notes presented in court confirm that Victor and his associates conspired to go to my client’s home around 10pm that night to carry out their sick plan. It wasn’t just an impulsive act—it was deliberate, coordinated, and deeply malicious.”

The courtroom was still.

“But fate had other plans,” she continued. “My client’s best friend who never approved of her relationship with Victor, arrived at her home just five minutes before those men did. And because of her instincts, her timing, and her courage, she alerted the police.”

She looked toward the judge, then the jury.

“This case isn’t about blurred lines or misunderstandings. It’s about power, manipulation, and violence. And it’s about a young woman who was targeted and betrayed.”

She paused.

“My client is not the one who should be on trial today. Victor Dolapo is. And the law must speak for the truth.”

“That is absolute nonsense!” Victor’s lawyer snapped, slamming a hand on the desk.

The courtroom gasped.

Bang!

The judge struck the gavel sharply. “Counsel, mind your language. This is a court of law.”

“I'm sorry, Your Honour, but women always want to be victimized. My client was also under the influence that night—so how do we know Miss Tiwalade didn’t drug him?”

“That’s an absurd and baseless accusation,” Sonia cuts in sharply. “Why are you projecting? It’s clear your client is a chronic drug user. His medical records confirm that.”

She hands the file to the judge. “The toxicology report shows cocaine in his system that night, and he administered midazolam to my client. That’s a benzodiazepine, commonly known as a ‘date-rape drug’ due to its ability to induce drowsiness, confusion, and memory loss.”

Victor’s lawyer stiffens, visibly rattled.

Sonia catches it and lets out a small, victorious smile.

“Counsel, keep to the facts. Baseless assumptions and gendered bias won’t be tolerated in my court,” the judge warns, eyes sharp behind the bench.

The courtroom was silent, thick with tension, eyes fixed on the bench.

The judge adjusted his glasses, his gaze passing over both legal teams before settling on Victor. His tone was even, but every word hit like a gavel.

“After reviewing all submitted evidence, including the toxicology report, voice recordings, and testimonies—I find the defendant, Mr. Victor Dolapo, guilty on the charges of attempted rape, drug possession, and criminal conspiracy.”

Gasps filled the courtroom. Victor stiffened in his seat, the blood draining from his face.

“This court is dismayed by the defendant’s blatant disregard for human dignity and the law,” the judge continued. “Your actions were not only immoral, they were calculated, predatory, and dangerous.”

Victor’s lips parted, his head shaking slowly. He turned toward his lawyer, whispering something urgent, panic rising in his voice.

“You will be detained in custody immediately,” the judge concluded. “Sentencing will be delivered in seven days.”

Bang!

The gavel echoed through the courtroom.

Victor stood abruptly, knocking over his chair.

“This is madness!” he shouted. “She wanted it! They’re lying!”

Two officers stepped forward swiftly. One grabbed his arm, the other restrained him as he struggled.

“Let go of me! I didn’t do anything! She set me up!”

The courtroom murmured with disgust.

Sonia stood still, watching the drama unfold. Her face was calm, but her eyes burned with justice.

Victor turned one last time, his voice desperate. “Tiwa! Tell them! Tell them it was a mistake!”

Tiwa didn’t flinch.

“You made your choices, Victor. Now you get to live with them.” Tiwa says.

As he was dragged out of the courtroom, Sonia exhaled—deep and steady.

“Thank you so much Sonia. I promise I'll pay you back.” Tiwa now stands before her, eyes grateful.

“There's no need do that, just stay safe and avoid men for the meantime.” She blew her a kiss as she walks out of the courtroom like the queen she is.

✚✚✚✚✚✚

“Barrister Sonia! The biggest lawyer in all of West Africa! The one and only justice maker!” Flora sang through the phone, hyping Sonia with her usual dramatic charisma.

Sonia laughed. “If it isn’t the socialite and influencer extraodinaire herself hyping me up.”

“Before nko!” Flora replied playfully. “That’s how the job is, abeg. I’m always promoting people and businesses, whether they make sense or not.

“That’s by the way. So when are we finally having our get-together?” Flora asked, her voice light but eager.

Sonia sighed softly. She had seen this coming the moment the conversation began.

After graduation, once everyone got their degrees and stepped into the working world, things shifted. They hadn’t intentionally drifted apart, but adulthood had crept in, and it was quite demanding. No more high school or more parents smoothing out the rough edges. Just bills, deadlines  and trying to figure life out.

Dexter had become a rising tech entrepreneur, always working on something wild. His most talked-about invention was THE DEXTOP —a laptop with insane AI capabilities. When the group first heard about it, they were blown away. Still, they didn’t let him escape without making fun of him over the name.

Desmond had partnered with Dexter on the tech venture. While Dexter was the brain behind the idea, Desmond was the strategist—the steady hand in the chaos. He was fine letting Dexter take the spotlight.

Zainab was now a successful real estate manager, helping people find land, buy homes, and navigate the world of property ownership with ease.

Florence was a full-blown therapist. Yes, therapist. She’d switched from studying medicine to psychology midway through school and now worked with clients on emotional healing and mental health. The change surprised them all, but somehow, it fit her perfectly.

Kelechi had taken an entirely different path. She was now a professional boxer, throwing punches in the ring and making headlines across the continent.

Flora, of course, was a certified socialite—influencer, content creator, model, brand ambassador… you name it, she was doing it, and doing it well.

Empress was now a actor in Hollywood. Making headlines.

And then there was Derrick. Movie producer. Director. Visual artist. A rising name in both Nollywood and Hollywood, a rare crossover talent. He was everywhere, and yet still the same Derrick beneath it all.

Everyone was thriving in their own lane.

“I don’t know when we’ll have the get-together,” Sonia said honestly. “Everyone’s probably busy.”

“I will not accept that one o,” Flora replied instantly. “This is summer, and tomorrow is Saturday. What exactly will they be doing by then? Be honest, is it that you don’t want to see Derrick?”

“Stop na, you know I miss him and want to see him,” Sonia said with a soft pout.

“You're not even acting like it sef,” Flora teased. “Abi konji never hold you? Because for Derrick to not be caught up with all those fine actresses he’s constantly around with, it definitely means something o.”

Sonia mentally rolled her eyes before responding. “Fine. We’ll have the get-together, and I’ll help with the planning. But just know, you’re the one paying the bills.”

“Good girl,” Flora grinned. “No wahala. I don’t mind paying,just make sure everybody shows up.”

With that, the call ended, leaving Sonia smiling quietly to herself.

○○○○○○○○○

“Omo, I can’t remember the last time I had proper fufu and ogbono soup,” Empress said, already halfway through her plate, a satisfied smile stretching across her face. “Anytime I’m on set, they always put me on one diet or the other—vegetables and grass, like I’m a goat. Thank God the movie’s finally wrapped. I can finally chop better food. Thank you guys for inviting me.”

“Flora, my love, I can’t eat, not unless you feed me,” Dexter called out dramatically from the other end of the lounge couch where we were all gathered.

“Shey this one don meant?” Flora scoffed, shooting him a glare. “Your hands na for decoration, abi?”

“Please nowww,” Dexter whined, pouting with the weakest attempt at puppy dog eyes.

“You sef feed him na,” Kelechi laughed. “It won’t take anything from you.”

Florence joined in, chuckling. “Exactly. Just pity him small.”

“Yes na,” Zainab added, taking a slow sip of her cocktail. “Since you’re the one that planned this whole hangout, it’s only fair you render your services.”

Flora rolled her eyes but reached for a spoon, muttering something under her breath as everyone burst into laughter.

“Guy, you sef respect yourself,” Desmond said, rolling his eyes at Dexter’s antics.

Everyone was vibrant—laughing, eating, teasing one another. The room radiated warmth and joy. Well everyone except Sonia.

Because Derrick wasn’t there.

Sonia had been so excited when she reached out to him about the get-together. He confirmed he’d be coming—coming for her, especially. She’d even replayed his message a few times, smiling to herself every single time.

But now, hours later, with no sign of him, disappointment clung to her like a second skin.

She excused herself quietly and slipped away to the bathroom.

Inside, she leaned on the sink, her hands trembling slightly. She blinked quickly, refusing to let tears fall. She missed him more than she wanted to admit. They only saw each other twice a year, thanks to his demanding film schedule. She had truly hoped tonight would be different.

That he would be different.

But maybe she had expected too much.

After a few moments, she gathered herself, forced on a smile, and returned to the lounge.

As she stepped into the room, everything was suddenly dark.

She froze.

Before she could say anything, the lights flicked back on, brighter than before.

Right in front of her stood Flora, holding up a large white banner that read:

"SAY YES"

Phones were out. Everyone was filming. Smiling. Waiting for something.

Confused, Sonia turned around, her heart skipping wildly in her chest.

There, behind her, was Derrick. Down on one knee.

He looked as handsome as ever, dressed in a dark suit, smile soft and nervous. In his hand was a red velvet box, opened to reveal a silver ring adorned with emerald stones—the kind of green that sparkled under the lights.

Shock didn't even begin to cover it. She wasn’t expecting this at all tonight.

Not when she thought he had forgotten.

Her breath caught in her throat as he looked up at her.

“Sonia,” he said, voice low but sure, “will you marry me?”

For a long moment, Sonia just stood there frozen, breath shallow, heart hammering against her chest.

Her eyes darted between the banner, the ring, and the man kneeling before her. The man she had loved quietly, fiercely, and patiently for years.

Tears welled up in her eyes, spilling freely before she could stop them.

“Derrick...” she whispered, her voice trembling.

He looked up at her, a soft smile on his lips, but his eyes, those steady, deep eyes were glassy with emotion too.

He took a breath, then spoke.

“I know I’ve been hard to reach. I know I’ve missed birthdays, calls, dinners, and everything in between. My life became this crazy whirlwind of cameras and deadlines, but not once—not once—did I stop thinking about you.”

“You’ve been patient with me, even when I didn’t deserve it. You’ve rooted for me, challenged me, loved me from a distance, and still held space for me in your heart. And now... I want to close that distance for good.”

He took her hand gently, never breaking eye contact.

“Sonia Uduak Ubong… I ask again, will you marry me? Will you give me the chance to love you not from afar, but from right here—by your side—every day, for the rest of our lives?”

A collective gasp rippled through the room. Someone sniffled. Flora was already wiping away tears.

Sonia let out a short, breathless laugh as she nodded, barely able to speak.

“Yes,” she finally said, her voice cracking. “Yes, yes, a thousand times yes.”

The room erupted into cheers and claps as Derrick stood and slipped the ring onto her finger, pulling her into a tight embrace, kissing her. They held each other there, like the world had melted away and all that was left was this home.

Sonia was still wiping tears from her cheeks when Flora practically tackled her in a hug.

“You said yes, babe!” she squealed. “You’re getting married! Omo, you’re somebody’s fiancée now!”

The rest of the group swarmed around them—cheering, hugging, shouting, taking photos like the paparazzi. Flashlights bounced off the walls, laughter echoed through the lounge.

“Make way, make way for the bride-to-be!” Zainab shouted, fanning Sonia dramatically with a napkin.

“Abeg, let’s see the ring!” Kelechi said, grabbing Sonia’s hand and inspecting it. “Omo! Emerald stones! Derrick no fall hand at all!”

“You see the way it sparkles?” Florence added. “This one no be small love o, it’s premium package.”

“I knew it,” Dexter said, shaking his head. “From the moment this hangout was being planned too perfectly, I said; 'something fishy is going on'.”

Desmond raised his glass. “To Derrick for not messing it up—and to Sonia, for not running to the bathroom and locking the door when the lights went off.”

Everyone laughed.

Derrick slipped beside Sonia, placing an arm around her waist as the music shifted to something slower. He leaned in, whispering just loud enough for her to hear.

“You look like majestical tonight.”

She smiled, still overwhelmed. “You’re really here.”

“For you? Always.”

Flora grabbed her phone and shouted, “Oya everybody! Couple picture now! Let’s do this before I start crying again.”

They all huddled around Derrick and Sonia, some striking poses, others trying not to blink while laughing. Phones clicked, cameras flashed, and just like that, the memory was sealed.

The night carried on with food, music, drinks, and dancing. Jollof and small chops circulating.

Kelechi challenged everyone to a dance-off.

Florence, Zainab and Empress were busy debating wedding themes.

Desmond and Dexter plotted who would be the best man.

And Flora was already drafting the engagement announcement caption on Instagram.

Sonia sat for a moment, watching them all—the people who had seen her grow, stumble, and now, rise.

This, she thought, was what love looked like. Not just in the ring on her finger—but in the room full of people who never stopped rooting for her.

People who believed in her.

THE END

A/N

Omo, I don't know what say😭

I'm speechless right now.