By

Ajagbe Ayodeji

#sadlovestory

Sad Love Story

(Part 1)

CHAPTER ONE

Waking up to the song of my favorite artiste booming from the sound system gives me joy everyday.

"What If I Say, Make You Come Chill With Me In My Place

When You Go Fit Come Maybe This Friday

Me And You We Be Chilling In My Room

We Go Listen To Some Songs with my beats by dre.

Maybe We Could Do This To The Midnight Train

Baby Ee...."

"...Jor wo Baby Give Me Love Oh ooh

Jor Jor, Jor Jor,

Oya Baby Give Me…."

Fireboy's talent is entirely a story for another day. These days, I feel lonely and depressed. I feel empty and frustrated. It's been ten months since Grace left me with our daughter Iremide because I could no longer provide for her ever increasing needs. Yet, it's still hard to get over her and move on with my life. She didn't even consider our daughter's future who's just two years.

It's been two years and four months I finished my NYSC. I have not been employed by any firm. I've sent my curriculum vitae to almost all the companies in Lagos and Ogun state. "We will get back to you Mr Turner" was all they said and that's all.

"Never give up" I said to myself as I got dressed that morning. I wore my best shirt, a five hundred naira shirt I bought some months ago from a tokunbo stall and the struggle to get a job continues again. 

I saw a vacancy advert in front of a company and I applied immediately, with the hope that luck will smile on me that day. On getting to the reception, I felt a lot of gazes fixed on me. 

Why won't they look at me though? I have almost everything a lady could ever wished for in a man. 

I was directed to the Manager's office. As I continued to smile, I honestly don't know what made me smile.

The interview was led by a lady who seemed to be within my age bracket. Her office was bigger than I thought. It was bigger and more furnished than my rented room and it made me lost in thought.

"Please have your seat" the lady said in a sweet voice which sent chills down my spine.

I snapped out of my slumber and sat on the chair that was placed right in front of her at the other edge of the table. I handed over my file to her and she began to go through it.

"So, you once lived in France?" She asked looking quite impressed.

"Yes ma, I lived in France for about eight years before I came back to Nigeria" I answered.

I was lost in my thoughts and so many thoughts were going through my mind. So many unanswered what if? What if I don't meet up with their employment criteria? What if I mess up? What if I...... Then her sweet voice brought me out of my thoughts. 

"So how will you be of good use to this company Mr Oluwatimileyin Turner?" 

"Well, I never give up and I work not just hard but smart when necessary. I do whatever I'm told to do. I studied Engineering in University and I was ranked forty-fifth best student in my faculty. I have held leadership positions as a Comrade and Senator while in school. And I am a content developer as well. I write articles and stories as a side hustle." I answered with confidence.

"Hmm, such confidence. Why should we hire you?" She asked folding her hands.

"Well madam, I am productive and I love to add value to anywhere I find myself." I said looking at her straight in the eyes.

She hummed in response and pulled out the drawer beneath her table and brought out a file  and wrote my name on it. 

"You are hired Mr Turner! You are just what we need. I just need you to sign this document right here." She said tossing the file towards me.

With great joy in my heart, I signed the paper and gave her the contract back.

"Great. Congratulations. You can call me Faridah" she smiled as she shook my hand. "You can start work immediately. The secretary will show you your office and explain everything you need to know." she added. 

I picked up my phone and dialed my mom's number to tell her about the good news. She was extremely happy for me. I was shown around the company and my office too. My joy knew no bound at that moment. I wanted to shout out so loud yet I wanted to visit the restroom so badly too. After much, wild jubilations, I decided to visit the restroom.

 

I was barely in when I heard a voice from the next toilet.

"Hello, how are you?"

I'm not the type to start a conversation in the restroom but I don't

know what got into me, so I answered, somehow embarrassed

"I am Doing' just fine!"

"So what are you up to?" The other person asked.

What kind of question is that? At that point, I was thinking those questions were becoming too absurd so I answered "Uhhh, I'm like you, as you can see nature dictates!"

At that point I was just trying to get out as soon as possible, but nature wasn't done with me yet.

Chen I heard the most disturbing question. "Can I come over?"

WTF!, this question is just too absurd to answer but I figured I

could just be polite and end the conversation. 

"No...... you know I am busy right now, I guess you are busy too! So there's no need coming over" I said trying to end the conversation.

Then I heard the person say "Listen baby, I'll have to call you back. There's an idiot in the next toilet who keeps answering all my questions."

I was shocked to my bone marrow. I couldn't say anything again. I left the restroom for my office quietly.

CHAPTER TWO

Back in my office the following week, I was lost in my thoughts thinking about how blessed I am. After several years of job hunting. I was employed by Experience Visions Creations (EVC), one of the biggest construction companies in Lagos State. I wasn't even employed as a junior officer. I was employed as a senior officer, I enjoyed the privileges of earning a six digits salary, a private and well furnished apartment in Lekki and an official vehicle too, a Lexus RX 350 Jeep. What else could anyone ask for?

That morning, I was in my office, standing near the window pane watching the activities of things happening in and outside the company from the comfort of my office. I watched as Faridah's car drove into the company, she has a driver. I watched as she stepped out of her vehicle. There were securities around her. Damn, she was so gorgeous, walking gracefully with her long, black hair sexily swaying from the left to the right beneath her waist.

I hurried down to the first floor to meet her. She entered the building and passed through the security checkpoint and went straight to the reception.

"Good morning ma" i said smiling to get her attention. She stopped addressing the receptionists and stared at me for a moment then a seductive smile appeared on her lips as she continued to look at me.

"Good morning Mr Turner, you really look good today" she commended as she tried to flaunt her boobs which doesn't go unnoticed by me.

"Thank you ma" I blushed "I'm done with the report you gave me yesterday and I've mailed it to the Commissioner of environment." I added.

"Oh that's cool! I hope there are no errors and misspellings?" She asked, somehow impressed.

"No errors ma" I said while flashing my perfect smile to her.

"Good. Please bring a copy of the report to my office once you're less busy" she giggled and made me blush again.

Faridah left for her office immediately and the rest of us dissolved and went back to our various offices except for the receptionists who were left behind in their office. 

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

On getting to my office, I switched on the plasma television which hanged on the office' wall and the air conditioner so as to further cool the room temperature. I changed the channel to MTV Base. Fireboy's 'Need You' was being played.

"You sweet pass mango, you sweet pass àgbálùmọ'

No know where I wan go ọmọ mí ò má gbádùn mọ

Na only you fit heal me baby don't go

You said lets be friends oh let's take it gently baby

Me I no get Benz oh, I no get Bentley baby

All I got is love for you (for you) Baby ṣe'oun gbọ' pé mí lórúkọ fàmí ni 'rugbon

Nkan t' ọn sọ kó má ni 'túmọ'Don't listen to them, you don't need rumours

I know you need me but I need you more

Oh my lover anytime you call me baby

You know that it makes me lose control (control)

I want to love you like I've never love before my lover

You know I miss you like I needle misses the point

I need you like eko needs moi moi

Can't do without you girl like two sides of a coin oh (coin oh) ahh

We made love more than memories

But in my song you're my melody

You're the only one that can be there for me

I need you now more than ever (now more than ever) ohh

Pé mí lórúkọ fàmí ni 'rugbon

Nkan t' ọn sọ kó má ni 'túmọ'

Don't listen to them, you don't need rumours

I know you need me but I need you more

Oh my lover (my lover) anytime you call me baby

You know that it makes me lose control (control)

I want to love you like I've never done before my lover......."

"Fireboy's just too good" i said to myself as I take off my suit and loosen my tie a little bit. Just then a text message entered my phone. It was from Grace. My ex lover and the mother of my daughter 'Iremide'.

"I really need to see you Timileyin." The text reads. "Why does she wants to see me? What for?" I asked myself somehow confused. Just then a telephone call came in. It was from one of the receptionists.

"Hello sir, a lady is here to see you. Miss Grace by name." The receptionist said.

"Let her in" i said after a long session of silence, deciding whether to let her in or not.

A few moment later, I heard a faint knock on my door. I knew instantly that it was Grace. 

"Come in" i said while still sitting on my chair. I was very happy and also surprised to see her again but I didn't want to show it. I just sat there stiffened like a dead body. Grace looked around for a while opening her mouth like someone who's lost in mystery. She moved towards me

"Ayomi" she said and burst into tears. I don't really seem to understand the concept behind the tears and I also don't seem to comprehend why she still calls me 'Ayomi' since we were not together again. She gave me a tight hug, wrapping her hands across my neck.

"I'm really sorry Timmy. I don't mean to leave you. It's the devil's work. And I had to take that drastic step because of my mother.

She was the one who said I should leave you and find another man since you are unemployed and can't cater for my needs" she sniffed and continued "I've been visiting her in the hospital too." She added as she burst out into tears.

"Really? What happened to her?" I asked as I wiped away her tears and caressed her cheeks

"She's been in the hospital for almost two months now because of cancer. Actually, she needed a blood transfusion as soon as possible which I find it difficult and impossible since I had no money on me. My fiancee, the man I thought I was going to get married too also ditched me. I got to know recently that he is a married man with five kids." She said and burst into fresh tears again.

Her last statement made me yell at her furiously, her cries became too much as she noticed my angry face. She wanted to say something again when I excused myself and walked towards the sofa in my room.

"Timileyin, I really love you and I want you back as my husband. I want you to consider the sake of our daughter Iremide who's just a little girl."

"Oh really, why don't you consider our daughter before you left? Why are you just considering her all of a sudden? Grace, I searched for you everywhere. Oreoluwa, your bestie didn't tell me about your whereabouts. Your mom chased me away like a dog the day I went to your house." I said with tears now forming beneath my eyes.

"I'm really sorry Timmy."

"I watched my mom take up several jobs just to put food on the table. She worked as a cleaner in a primary school, she washed clothes for women who are way younger than her. She worked as a laborer in a construction company. She almost lost her life in the struggle for us to survive." 

That moment, I wanted Grace out of my office. Her presence was making me see everything I didn't want to remember. I was surprised when I turned around and still found Grace sitting at the edge of my table with her gaze fixed on me. I assured her not to worry much about her ailing mother. I instantly transferred eighty thousand naira to her account so that the doctors could start treatment. She left as soon as she confirmed the payment.

I watched Grace stepped out of my office. I knew she didn't leave. She'll still comeback. I broke down and went on my knees, I felt miserable without Grace. I want her back yet I didn't want her back.

CHAPTER THREE

It was a bright and sunny morning, white fluffy clouds drifted across the blue sky as the sun beams beautifully, casting a golden glow upon the earth. I woke up to the sound of someone knocking gently at my door. I already knew it was my mom who was trying to wake me up for work.

"I'm coming Mom" i mumbled half asleep. She continued knocking till I got out of bed."I'm up already" I yelled. I knelt quietly beside my bed and observed my morning devotion. After then, I brought out my iPhone 11 pro max which I had bought some weeks ago and logged into WhatsApp. I've lots of unread messages about one hundred and fifty. As I scrolled down the chats, Faridah's message caught my attention. I clicked on it and read "Excos meeting by 12pm today. My Dad will be present so be punctual."

"Thanks, got it." I replied.

I got dressed for work immediately I got the message. I wore my best Tuxedo suit since it was going to be a special meeting at our company that day.

"You are late Oluwatimileyin" my mom frowned as soon as I got to the dining room.

"I'm sorry maami." I replied hugging my mother and kissing my daughter, Iremide on her forehead.

"Good morning Dad." She said in a tiny voice and knelt down to greet me like my Mom had taught her.

"Good morning my Queen" I said as I drew her close to me and gave her a tight hug "trust you had a great night?" I added.

My mom served breakfast. She had prepared a light breakfast of bread, egg and tea. We all ate in silence.

     ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I dropped Iremide off at her school and started the long journey down to my office. Thankfully, there wasn't much traffic on the road that day. On getting to the office, I felt a lot of gaze fixed on me. Why won't they look at me? I now have everything a lady could wish for in a man and every young man would love to have my physique.

I walked majestically into my office after greeting everyone.

When it was quater past ten, Faridah sent for me. I paused what I was doing and left for her office immediately.

"Good morning ma, you sent for me?" I said as soon as I got into her office.

"Oh yes! please have your seat." She said as she points at the vacant seat right beside her on the sofa. "I have told you several times not to address me as MA. I already gave you an exception to call me Faridah. Please address me as Faridah! Simply Faridah okay?" She said forcing out frown.

"Alright Faridah, I'm sorry" I said looking at her sternly.

"It's fine." She said as she threw a friendly punch at me. 

"Please I'd  like if you can help deliver this file to the Commissioner's office" Faridah said handling a white file over to me. "Tell him it contains both the proposal and the plan." She added.

"Alright, I will do that right away" i said as I made to leave her office.

"One more thing Timmy" Faridah said as she pulled me by the wrist. "Erm.... What's your schedule for tonight?" 

"Nothing, I'll be home reading or watching Netflix" i said as I shrugged my shoulders.

"Mind if we hangout together tonight?" She winked

"Huh..... Tonight?" I asked confused.

"Yes, a date actually. Mind if we go out on a date together?".

"Yes, it's fine." I affirmed

"I'll come and pick you at home. And drop you off. We won't need your car."

"Oh... Okay" I said still feeling surprised.

I left for the Commissioner's office immediately it's just a fifteen minutes drive and luckily for me, I met him on seat. He approved our contract and signed on it. It was a contract of one hundred and fifty five million naira. I returned  the file to Faridah's office and I was surprised when she told me to keep it and present it at the Excos meeting.

The meeting was led by the CEO Dr Oyedeji Abdulafeez  popularly known as Experience. A man in his early fifties that everyone was marveled by his presence because according to rumors, he hasn't stepped his foot in Nigeria since about five years ago. His only daughter, Faridah have been the one handling the affairs of the company and she handled it perfectly.

Faridah sat right beside her father. When she rose up to speak, I found myself staring at her. I couldn't just seem to get my eyes off her as I was busy admiring her sexy figure. She has a 5'9 height plus a sexy body and a clean and fresh brown skin that would have made anyone mistake her for a model. 

I proposed the contract I went to sign earlier that day at the Commissioner's office and the CEO was really happy that our company got the contract. I brilliantly found my way to engage in an interactive session with the CEO. The only thing on my mind then was to get a recognition from him.

Fast forward to the end of the meeting, the CEO  announced that Faridah, myself and three others will be traveling to France to participate in a business seminar, an all paid expenses by the company. I was so happy about the travel to France that I didn't know when I ran towards Faridah and gave her a tight hug.

The day ended on a lighter mood. I got home and told my mom about it. She offered praises to God. I was lost in my thoughts thinking about the meeting and imagined how it all went. I still couldn't believe I'll be traveling to France with Faridah. I was just so happy.

"I'm outside already." Faridah's message popped up on my phone.

"Okay, I'm coming." I replied and immediately left for the gate. I ordered the security guard to open the gate for Faridah to drive in. She ran towards me as soon as she got out of her car and gave me a tight hug.

"Congratulations darling." She said as she wrapped her hands across my neck.  

"Thanks dear, I'm nothing without you." I confessed as I took her in to meet my mom.

"Good evening Mummy." Faridah said as she knelt down to greet my mom. I was dumbfounded at how humble she is despite how rich and educated she is.

"Good evening my Daughter. God bless you dear, my son have told me a lot about you. May God continue to bless you, you will never know a better yesterday...." My mom said as she continued to rain prayers of blessings on her.

Faridah met with my daughter too and played with her. I went back to my room and freshened up for our date. While on our way, she asked questions about my daughter and Grace my ex lover which I answered truthfully. She felt sorry for me and caress my thighs at intervals.

Faridah drove to Club Quilox, a luxurious club in Victoria Island made for rich people in Lagos. We entered the bar where we were entertained by the best DJ on call. While everyone were busy drinking and partying, Faridah proposed a walk around the club. We got to a dark corner and was still talking about love when I got the courage to kiss her. How I got the courage to do that still remain a mystery to me. I thought Faridah would slap me for taking advantage of her innocence instead she responded well by kissing me back passionately with her hands caressing every part of my body. I also responded by fondling and playing with her big, round boobs. Soon she started moaning which I took as a "go ahead, you are free to do anything." 

I wanted to unhook her bra so I could have have direct access to her boobs and suck like my life depended on it but then I had a second thought. Faridah have been my helper and taking advantage of her innocence without going through the proper process of proposing her is a grave sin to God and to her. I stopped immediately and waited for a perfect time to propose her.

CHAPTER FOUR

Days passed by so quick and our departure day to France was drawing nearer. I had packed my luggages and few things I'd be needing for the trip. The anticipated day came, my colleagues and I found our way to the airport. There were plasma LCDs of arrival and departure times hung on the wall of the airport. People were lined up at the check in desk with bags and baggage. Outside the building, there was a sculpture of a fish with water gushing out from its mouth and flowing down the drain. In the background a soft country music was being played. It was John Denver's 'take me home, country roads.' 

In the arrivals lounge, there was a curious mixture of bored and excited people. Some looked like they had just lost a family member while others looked like they were waiting for the second coming of Christ. Some sat on the low comfy chairs while others bounced on their toes.

Moving on to the departure hall, teary eyed individuals bid their loved ones farewell with minute-long embraces and inaudible exchange of words. The soothing classical music now played in the background added more emotions to the scene. Slowly but surely, we stepped forward proceeding to our respectable gates.

With what I saw at the airport that day, I can really say that the walls of the airports have witnessed real and true kisses than churches and it has witnessed more sincere goodbyes and welcome. After so much stress, we got on board and our journey to France began. The trip took us approximately five hours and thirty one minutes.

We landed in Paris, the capital city of France. At the passenger pick up and drop off area, a sneaking queue of taxi drivers were ready to drop travelers and tourists at their destination of their accommodation. A young man parked right in front of us and approached us

 

"Bonjour mesdames et messieurs. je suis Raphael et je vous conduirai sur le lieu du séminaire" he said while the rest of my colleague looked confused because they did not understand him except me.

"merci beaucoup Raphael" i said smiling at him while I urge the rest to enter the black Jeep parked in front of of us.

Back in the comfort of air conditioning, countless Cafés and restaurant opened for business. The scent of 'chocolate mousse' wafts through the air followed by the aroma of a 'french onion soup.' 

We were taken to Créteil, where we will be based for the rest of our stay in France. We stayed at 'Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris Maisons - Alfort' which was about  4.3km away from Créteil where a lady welcomed us warmly.

"Bonjour mesdames et messieurs." The lady smiled at us as we got in.

"Bonjour mon ami, je suis ravi de vous recontrer." I said stretching my hands towards her.

"Je suis Susan, je avis vous guider tout all long de votre séjour ici en France." Susan, the lady said as she showed us our rooms.

"Je suis Oluwatimileyin Turner et voici mon ame Faridah." I stretched my hands over Faridah's shoulder as we mounted the elevator.

"Speak English Timmy, don't leave us in the dark. Or are you trying to sell us?" Faridah added sarcastically as we burst into laughter.

Susan took us to our various rooms and made sure we settled down. She attended to me last because I wasn't in a hurry like the rest of my colleagues. I already arranged my stuffs before she came over to my room. She was surprised at how I made the room mine so quick. She only set up the television. I wanted to reach out to my Mom in Nigeria so as to tell her that we've arrived France safely. There's no way I could do that except via WhatsApp video call. I called out to Susan to help me.

"Susan, donnez-moi le mot de passe de ce Wi-Fi. J'ai besoin d'atteindre ma mère" I begged.

"Ok, le mot de passe est staffsonly16" Susan said as she adjusts the router.

Later that evening, Faridah proposed that we have a walk in the garden, just the two of us. During the whole walk, she spent most of the time asking me about my past life, my daughter, my ex lover but she never mentioned anything about friends.

"So why does your ex lover left you?" Faridah questioned. The only question I didn't want to answer because I didn't want to remember anything about it again. Crap.

"Well... Uhm, you see.... I don't really think Grace was in love with me. She left me after, uhm, something happened."

"What actually happened?" She looked quite puzzled.

"It's a long story" we barely talk about personal matters like this yet she was the only friend I had at that moment. Should I trust her?

"We have all the time" she smiled and spread her arms as wide as they'd go. "At least you don't sleep until it's 11pm" she added.

I looked at my wristwatch, it was just 7:47pm. "Well uhm.... Basically, Grace left our house for almost a week without coming back. Then four days after she left, I got a call from someone that Grace has started seeing someone else. Uhm... She went away with the man." Oh God, my eyes were already teary. 

Surprisingly, Faridah wrapped me in her arms.

"You've never told anyone before me huh? It shows in your emotions. Don't worry honey, I'll never leave your side." Faridah said as she hugged me tighter. I felt secure in her arms. After wiping away my tears, we continued our walk in the garden.

The walls surrounding the building were tall and full of colorful designs. Buildings in Nigeria were nothing compared to them.

"So what do you think?" She asked smiling at me. Her smile swept me off my feet 

"I think..... I think you're amazing. I hope you're just as great as you look" I added smiling at her

Susan came along and joined us in the walk. She showed us around then she led us to our rooms. My room wasn't far from Faridah's room.

During the first two days in France, we didn't do much activities during the seminar. The trainer, Mr Leonard introduced me to everyone and made me talk about where I came from. A few french men came to talk to me which I found really sweet.

One lady, Chloé helped me with things and also clean my room. Chloé also help me around when Susan wasn't around.

CHAPTER FIVE

The sky turned from Blue to some sort of yellowish-Pink as the sun neared the horizon. It was becoming windy and the clouds begun moving around. The clouds cover brought different colors to the sky; consisting of blue, white, pink and orange. The gentle breeze made leaves rustle with a rhythmic sound. As Faridah and I backed away from the city noise, we could easily hear the music of nature. It was a pleasant weather and it was quite soothing and refreshing. That time of the day in France really seemed to be magical as it was very beautiful.

Faridah watches the sea, now lost in the rhythmic percussions of waves on the sand. Her eyes were steady on the horizon which stood at the unseen side of the sea. Her lips bears the resemblance of her smile just enough to show that she was having a nice time watching the sea. I moved closer to her, so that she feels my presence, yet she stays quiet allowing me to stay lost in the moment a little longer.

Truthfully, I've fallen in love with Faridah right from the first day we went on a date together. She is beautiful and well mannered. The way she played with Iremide that night was something that surprised me. I wanted to tell her that I love her but what if she doesn't feel the same way towards me? What if she's secretly engaged with a man I know nothing about? What if she gets annoyed?

So many what ifs? But nonetheless, I told her about how I truly felt about her that evening.

"Faridah" I called quietly holding her hands and looking straight into her eyes. "I love you." I finally let the cat out of the bag

"Faridah, falling in love with you is like entering into a house and finally realizing that I'm home. Faridah, when you smile at me, I feel invisible hands wrapping around me making me feel safe. When I look into your eyes, it's like seeing galaxies instead of just your pupils. Having you in my life makes me feel like everything is possible in this world. Like I can conquer anything. I don't regret meeting you at all and I know that you might be my second but what I really wish for in life is for you to be my last." I said folding my hands. It was then I realized that we've not been holding the whole time.

"Timileyin, I love you too." Faridah whispered as our eyes made contact.

My hand reaches for her hands and they interlock as we kissed passionately and tenderly. 

She pulled off the thick woolen sweater which she wore revealing just her transparent top. I felt little sparks over my skin. I was not sure whether they are from the sweater or where Faridah's hand gently skimmed my skin; either way, it was a magical feeling that causes me to shiver in complete pleasure and ecstasy.

Faridah's lips pressed against mine with passion, love and affection as her warm hands roams all over my arms and chest leaving a trail of sparks in my body. 

"You are so beautiful Faridah." I whispered. I felt her warmth on my lips. She wrinkled her nose in protest.

"Shut up and kiss me"  she whispered back.

Her lips gently brushed mine and I smelled her minty fresh breath as our bodies rocked together. She slowly massaged my chests as we kiss causing me to shiver and moan softly into her mouth. I rolled my head to the side, my chest rising and falling under her influence. She smiled as my hand tugged at her long braids and my other hand rubbed her ass.

"Faridah, je t'aime." I whispered

Faridah smiled and hit my chest playfully. She ran off waiting for me to catch her. I instantly knew what was on her mind.

CHAPTER SIX

It was exactly 9:00am when our car parked at the parking lot of 'ministère de l'environnement', It was a tall glass building. Our seminar with the boss was at 9:30am. After about ten minutes, the receptionist attended to us. We told her our agenda and she told us where to go. At the last floor which was the thirty-seventh floor.

Upon arriving the thirty-seventh floor, a lady in her mid twenties ushered us to the waiting area because Mr Pedro, the boss haven't arrived yet. 

"This is a nice place." I muttered to myself but Faridah heard it.

"Yeah, I hope the boss is just as nice as the building too." She said jokingly and rolled her eyes which made me laugh. I wondered why she made that statement.

It was exactly 9:30am when the receptionist came and ushered us to the seminar hall. The lady knocked on the slightly opened door and ushered us in before taking her leave.

"Bonjour Monsieur" Faridah said nervously which made me want to laugh at her for a moment.

"Bonjour mademoiselle" Mr Pedro answered. He told us to seat on the chairs in the front row and we obliged. Then the seminar started.

            

       ★

The seminar ended that day and we were about to leave when Mr Pedro told me to see him in his office because he wanted to discuss something important with me. I agreed reluctantly and told Faridah to go on without me.

"Tu as dit que tu voulais me voir" I asked Mr Pedro politely when we were alone. I was slightly intimidated by him. Who wouldn't be? Mr Pedro is a very rich French businessman who spent most of his life in United Kingdom and Nigeria as a business partner to Dr Oyedeji Abdulafeez.

"J'ai quelque chose à vous offrir M. Timmy Turner. Cela vous sera très utile. But I need you to do something for me." Mr Pedro said smirking. I suddenly felt my heart beat faster. 

"What did Mr Pedro mean by what he said?" I asked myself trying not to get any point from his discussion.

Mr Pedro stood from his seat and paced the floor slowly while his eyes were fixed on me.

"I will arrange a contract of two million dollars for you ASAP if you agree to leave Faridah for my son."  Mr Pedro said with an expression I couldn't even process. I stood in shock. I stared at him like he had gone crazy. Is this man serious or joking? Before I could say anything, he added "I noticed the closeness between you and Faridah and this is a chance she never gave my son." 

I stood up in anger causing the chair to make a loud screeching sound.

"Excuse me" I snapped "Do you think you can buy my love? Sorry to disappoint you. I'm not some cheap ass guy! Enjoy the rest of your day Mr Pedro." I said as I was about to storm out of his office when he spoke.

"Je vous offer beaucoue Timmy. I know you need the money because you don't have a car or a house of your own. You're living in your company's house with your mother and your daughter at Victoria Island and you drive your official car. So by the time I'm done with you, you'll be left alone with nothing" I gasped in shock at what he just said.

"How come you know about that?" I asked him angrily and he laughed like an evil villain. A while ago, he was handsome and cute in my eyes, now he seemed like a replica of the devil himself. Like he had now grown horns, wings and fangs. He looked so horrible.

"I know everything about you. My boys have been monitoring you for a while now. You graduated from the University of Ilorin with a second class upper, you once lived in a one room apartment with your mother and your daughter at Ikorodu. Your ex lover left you because you couldn't take care of her anymore. You started working in EVC last year june." My mouth hung open as I listened to him talk about me.

"How come did you know so much about me? This is the first time I'll be meeting you here in France." My fist tightened in anger while he sat relaxed on his chair and lit his cigar.

"My son, Jason is the executive secretary in your company. So think about it. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for you. It will solve all your problems If you agree to leave Faridah for my son." 

"Why me?" I asked in an audible sound as I sank back into my seat. 

"Because I want Faridah and my son to be together." Mr Pedro said bluntly. I shook my head in a negative way that made the smile on his face disappear and replaced with anger.

"I will make life miserable for you if you don't accept my offer." Mr Pedro said. I gnashed my teeth with intense anger and wanted to slap him really hard on the face before leaving his office.

I didn't even know I was already crying until I reached the car park where Mr Raphael was already waiting for me. I was thinking, I don't know what to do. My feelings for Faridah were true yet Mr Pedro offered me a once in a lifetime opportunity on a platter of gold but I can't love another woman again like I love Faridah. 

An idea struck me and I have to really act fast on it before it was too late. I told Mr Raphael to drive me to the best jewelry store in town. I bought a golden ring to propose to Faridah that same evening.

CHAPTER SEVEN

That same day, I proposed to Faridah, we both went on a date to 'Lac de créteil' where we sat at the edge of the lake watching the sunset. I have been waiting for this day. But not going exactly the way I planned it. 

Right after an unsuccessful French food tasting, I proposed we take a walk on the covered bridge set piece. We got to the middle of the bridge, Ed Sheeran's #Perfect was playing from a distance.

"I found a love for me,

Darling just dive right in

And follow my lead

Well I found a girl beautiful and sweet

I never knew you were the someone waiting for me

'Cause we were just kids when we fell in love

Not knowing what it was

I will not give you up this time

But darling, just kiss me slow, your heart is all I own

And in your eyes you're holding mine

Baby, I'm dancing in the dark with you between my arms

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

When you said you looked a mess, I whispered underneath my breath

But you heard it, darling, you look perfect tonight

Well I found a woman, stronger than anyone I know

She shares my dreams, I hope that someday I'll share her home

I found a love, to carry more than just my secrets

To carry love, to carry children of our own

We are still kids, but we're so in love

Fighting against all odds

I know we'll be alright this time

Darling, just hold my hand

Be my girl, I'll be your man

I see my future in your eyes

Baby, I'm dancing in the dark, with you between my arms

Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song

When I saw you in that dress, looking so beautiful

I don't deserve this, darling, you look perfect tonight........"

I turned around, dropped down to one knee, with ring in my hand and said "Faridah, will you marry me?" 

"OMG!!! YES!!! YES!!! YES!!!" Faridah answered, jumping up and down.

She answered with a yes! in the most magical place in the world. 

My joy knew no bounds knowing fully well that it was Faridah and I against the whole world.

 

   ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

A tightening sensation gripped my throat like a lump was in it. When I told Faridah that my mom is sick and I had to leave for Nigeria as soon as possible. I had received a distress call from Nigeria that my mother is terribly sick, the CEO, Dr Oyedeji sent for me as well and I had to report immediately too. 

I could see her struggling, letting the tears dry in her eyes trying not to cry in front of me the same way I was doing. After all, we've been in France together for almost three months. Now, I had to go alone. I wish I could stay and complete the four months seminar with my colleagues. I wish I could stay a little longer with Faridah. I wish I could turn back the time to when we used to spend the whole day together and never apart.

"Will you come back to France before the seminar ends?" Faridah asked.

"Uhm.... I don't know. I really don't know if I'll come back." I gave an old reply as expected.

After few minutes, the driver, Mr Raphael arrived and it was time to say goodbye to Faridah. The lump in my throat was seriously chocking me but somehow, I managed to say "I'll text you when I get to Nigeria." And she nodded in reply with tears in her eyes and a fake smile on her lips just to show me she was okay with that. She didn't even let a single drop of tear fall from her eyes before she left but I knew she was going to cry badly when she gets back to her room. I left with a hope that I'll come back to France before the end of the seminar.

I got back to Nigeria around 11pm and my driver was already at the airport to pick me up. I sent a text message to Faridah instantly telling her about my arrival in Nigeria.

The next morning, I went to visit my mother at the hospital where she was admitted before reporting to my place of work.

I opened the door of the ward carefully not wanting to wake my mother up. I went to the chair next to her bed and sat there quietly. I looked at my sleeping mother, she had lost lots of weight due to her condition. My heart ached at the sight of her and tears threatened to fall off but I brushed them off. I don't want to be seen crying so as not to make my mother feel bad. I must be there for her as a pillar of support like she had always been to me. I tried to touch her but ended up waking her up.

"Sorry Mom. I don't intend to disturb your sleep." I said apologetically and she smiled faintly.

"Ah, Oluwatimileyin temi nikan, oko mi Alabi. Omo Ibadan mesi Ogo, nile Oluyole.

Ilu Ogunmola, olodogbo keri loju ogun.

Ilu Ibikunle alagbala jaya-jaya.

Ilu Ajayi, o gbori Efon se filafila.

Ilu Latosa, Aare-ona kakanfo.

Ibadan Omo ajoro sun,

Omo a je Igbin yoo, fi ikarahun fo ri mu.

Ibadan maja-maja bii tojo kin-in-ni,

eyi too ja aladuugbo gbogbo logun,

Ibadan ki ba ni s’ore ai mu ni lo s’ogun.

Ibadan Kure! Ibadan beere ki o too wo o,

Ni bi olè gbe n jare olohun.

B’Ibadan ti n gbonile bee lo n gba Ajoji;

Eleyele lomi ti teru-tomo ‘Layipo n mu,

Asejire lomi abumu-buwe nile Ibadan.

A ki waye ka maa larun kan lara,

Ija igboro larun Ibadan." She hailed me, sadness was evident in her voice.

"How are you feeling now maami?"

"I'm fine, but I really miss you sweetheart. You are all I've got." She said emotionally and I hugged her.

I shouldn't have woke her up because I don't like seeing her sad.

"Everything will be fine maami. I'll do everything to make you feel better." I promised her. She pulled away from our embrace and touched my cheecks in a tender way.

"Oluwatimileyin" she called as I made to leave for the doctor's office. "Please, don't fight with anybody. Do things the proper way." She reminded me and kissed my hands.

"Yes maami. I won't fight anyone." I promised.

I went to the Doctor's office to find out about my mom's nature of illness. I was surprised to know that the doctor taking care of my mother was my best friend during University days. 

"Ayokanmi" i shouted as I set my eyes on her.

"Timileyin!?" Ayokanmi said adjusting her glass. She ran towards me and gave me a tight hug regardless of the medical rules she had to follow.

"Longest time baby.... Uhm what are you doing here?" Ayokanmi asked looking quite confused.

"Uhm.... I actually came to check up on my Mother. She was admitted here and i just came back from France last night." I answered looking all depressed.

"C'mon Timmy, you're a big man now. You don't need that. Big boys don't cry" Ayokanmi winked as she pats my back. "She'll be fine" she assured me.

Ayokanmi and I were separated by distance. Yeah, by a very long distance. Our lives have completely changed after University. In University, we were used to kissing each other thousands of times in a day, hold hands and walk the whole of skyway and walkway together. Though we weren't perfect for each other and of course, nothing was common between us. She always prefer purple while I prefer red. She was born with a silver spoon in her mouth while I was living in financial crisis with a single mother. Ayokanmi was the most beautiful and sophisticated girl in the Faculty of Life Sciences and I couldn't even dress up properly then. 

She wasn't my type cos of her high class neither was I her type too. Ayokanmi was a Muslim and believed only in Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W). I was a Christian and believed only in Jesus Christ yet we were still together and spent every moment together, shared every thoughts, memories, problems, jokes, pain and thousand of kisses with smile on our lips and happiness in our hearts.

We fought like badasses too but never left each other even for a minute. Yes, there was something common between us, a common desire which is to be successful in life. But now, it's been years since we part ways after graduating from University of ilorin.

CHAPTER EIGHT

After visiting my mother at the hospital, I went directly to my office because my secretary had called me earlier that morning that the CEO, Dr Oyedeji wanted to see me in his office as soon as I arrived Nigeria. I was happy that the CEO wanted to see me thinking my promotion letter was ready. It's been almost a year since I started working at Experience Vision Creations and I must say that it's very hard to fit in or stand out.

EVC is a very big company with many branches all over the thirty six states in Nigeria with the headquarters in Lagos State. When I reached the office, the CEO was already on seat and there was this look on his face which made me more curious. 

I was left alone with the CEO in his office, shocked because of the slaps I received from him. My jaw clenched in anger as I held my cheecks tight.

"Look at me young man, I don't want you to have anything to do with my daughter anymore. She already have a fiancee she's getting married to." He slapped me again "if by chance I see you two together, I'll kill you. I'll do anything to get rid of you." Dr Oyedeji threatened as he collapsed back to his seat.

"Now, I want you to go back to France and finish the seminar you went for. When you get back, I'll think of what to do with you."  He yelled furiously at me.

That same week, I travelled back to France. Ayokanmi and I had met a couple of times and I deposited some amount of money for the treatment of my mother.

   ★ Back In France ★

Faridah sat in the waiting section alongside with Mr Raphael waiting for me, with her eyes cast to the arrival section when my hand touches her face gently. She leapt for joy and hugged me with my fingers on her cheeks. I turned her head so she can see that it was truly me and I could see love in her eyes too. Only love, her face buckles and tears rolled unchecked, washing a part to her chin. That moment, I held her in an embrace I never wanted to end, the type of embrace that tells her we will be together forever.

I lost my lover once, and I am not ready to lose her again. Not anymore.

"Bienvenue en France." Mr Raphael smiled as he shook my hands warmly.

"Je vous remercie" i replied and patted his back.

"I really miss you babyy" Faridah said childishly and rested her head on my chest.

"I miss you more sugarplum.... Mom sent her regards too." I said as I opened the door for her to get in.

"Awww..... That's cute.... How's she feeling now?" 

"She's feeling quite better. All thanks to God and the doctor." I said as Mr Raphael drove us to our lodge. 

"Faridah, we really need to talk" I said as I placed her hands on my thighs", "about something bothering me." I added before she could say a word.

We promised each other to hangout the next day immediately after the seminar. We chose the park as our place.

                   

   ★★★

The following day, we sat, walked and talked with each other until we got bored of the place. We decided to go to 'Lac de créteil' where I proposed to her as it was just twenty minutes drive from the park.

"Faridah, you didn't tell me your Dad got a man for you already?"  I said.

"His name is Jason and he is the Executive Secretary of EVC in Nigeria. He is Mr Pedro's son. My father and Mr Pedro are business partners and they've agreed to get us married. Timmy, the truth is I don't love Jason and I don't have any feelings for him whatsoever. I love someone else but my father doesn't want to understand. He's only after his own selfish interest and doesn't care about my own happiness." Faridah said as she lets out a cry.

"Huh!?.... So who's that person you love?" I asked quite confused....

(Continue Part 2 here:  https://www.readersketch.com/2020/12/sad-love-story-2.html?m=1)

Sad Love Story

Ayodeji 2020© Readersketch