————— Chapter 1 ——————
I still remember the day I left Unity Secondary School, Surulere like it just happened yesterday.
The whole school didn’t really know the real reason I disappeared. As usual, everybody just dey form detective, spreading their own version of the story up and down—some said I was bullied, others even said I got into trouble with some bad boys. But truth be told, none of those stories even come close to what actually happened.
My life at that time? Just one kain wahala after another.
If you’re sharp, you’ll understand say I didn’t leave that school for nothing. I left because I couldn’t stand seeing the same people who smiled with me during break time, shared meat pie and Zobo with me… but still betrayed me behind my back. The kind betrayal wey go make person lose trust for everybody.
So I packed my things quietly and relocated to Abuja to stay with my mum. I needed a fresh start—no gossip, no fake friends, no bad memories.
When I got there, I started attending one private school called Golden Heights Academy. Fine school, no doubt—clean environment, correct teachers, students wey sabi form—but me? I no send anybody.
I just kept to myself.
No friends. No gist. No unnecessary smiling.
I guess that’s why I didn’t really make any new friends.
Who am I deceiving?
Even if I tried… I don’t think I was ready to trust anybody again.
The only real person I could call my own was my cousin, Amaka.
I had already built a strong wall around my heart—solid like concrete. I no wan give anybody chance to hurt me again. But deep down, I still needed somebody… somebody wey go dey there when the tears come at night. Somebody wey go say, “you go dey alright.”
That’s why I thought my mum would be that person.
But I was wrong.
My mum na big-time lawyer for Abuja—always busy, always serious. If she’s not in court, she’s at home with plenty files spread across the table, reading case laws like her life depends on it. Most nights, the only sound in the house na the flipping of papers and the clicking of her laptop.
Me? I just dey my room… staring at the ceiling… overthinking everything.
Most times, I ended up sleeping over at Amaka’s place. Her house felt more like home than mine ever did. At least there, somebody would knock on your door and ask, “Have you eaten?”
But as life no dey always go how you want am, my mum later insisted I return back to Lagos.
According to her, I needed to—how did she even put it?—“face my problems and stop running away.”
Face my problems?
In her mind, she felt like she was helping me do the right thing.
But in my own mind… it just felt like she was ignoring everything I was going through. Like my pain didn’t even matter.
Sometimes, I used to wonder…
Maybe she changed after she and my dad separated. Maybe that was when she became this cold, distant version of herself I no longer recognize.
Now I’m back at Unity Secondary School, Surulere.
And if you expect me to say I missed this place…
You’re joking.
Because honestly?
That would be a big lie.
It felt like nothing had changed in the last two years.
Same school gate. Same noisy assembly ground. Same students forming cliques like say na competition. And honestly, coming back here? Na one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made in my life.
If you check am well, there were even some advantages of coming back to Lagos. At least I would get to see my old friends again—Tolu and Zainab. And more importantly… I’d get to stay with my dad again.
But even with all that, something still dey weigh me down.
One thing wey no dey ever leave my mind is the fact that I’ll have to face Chinedu again.
My former best friend.
Me and Chinedu go way back—back to JSS3 days. We used to sit at the back of the class, doing freestyle rap battles during break time. Sometimes it would turn into arguments—“Guy, I finish you!”
“Abeg shift, you no sabi rap pass me!”
Those were actually good times… real friendship.
But everything scattered.
When I moved to Abuja, I completely cut him off. I stopped picking his calls, ignored his messages… just acted like he didn’t exist anymore. We haven’t spoken since the day I left.
And he knew why.
He knew it was because of his useless friend… Sadiq Bello.
But wait… make I carry you go back small.
Let’s start from the beginning.
Sadiq Bello.
The same guy wey I foolishly catch feelings for.
If I want describe am in one sentence? Typical Lagos bad boy. Always getting into trouble, always moving with that annoying confidence… the kind that makes girls lose their sense.
I swear, that boy get one kind vibe wey dey pull girls like magnet in this school.
And me?
I was one of them.
What still confuses me till today is how almost every girl in Unity Secondary School was always falling over themselves because of Sadiq.
I mean… what exactly is so special about him?
Okay, fine… that one na lie.
I won’t even pretend.
Sadiq is fine. Like really fine. That kind rough, effortless fine—his dark, slightly scattered hair always falling over his face, and those sharp eyes wey fit make person forget wetin she wan talk.
It was annoying.
At first, I didn’t even want anything to do with him. Everybody already knew his reputation—arrogant, proud, always moving like he owns the whole school. The kind of boy mothers warn their daughters about.
So I kept my distance.
But somehow… we started talking.
Small small, I began to see a different side of him. He would gist me, make me laugh, act like I was different from every other girl. And before I knew it, I was already falling… deep.
Looking back now, I just dey shake my head at myself.
Because everything changed the night he invited me to one party.
One stupid party.
It was at Kunle’s house—one of the senior boys, a footballer, popular for throwing those loud weekend parties parents no dey know about. Music blasting, drinks everywhere, people dancing like there’s no tomorrow.
I almost didn’t go.
But Sadiq insisted.
He told me, “Trust me, you go enjoy yourself.”
I trusted him.
That was my first mistake.
Because that night… na that same night everything scattered.
That was when I finally realized the truth.
He played me.
Everything—the attention, the closeness, the way he made me feel special—it was all fake. My feelings? Completely one-sided. To him, I was just another joke… another story to gist his friends.
Before I even understood what was happening, the whole school had heard.
By the next Monday, I had become the main topic.
Everywhere I passed, people would whisper. Some would laugh openly. Some would even be bold enough to ask stupid questions.
It was humiliating.
From that moment, Sadiq and I became enemies.
As for Chinedu… I started avoiding him too. After all, he was Sadiq’s close guy. And in my head, I kept thinking—
What if he was part of it?
What if the whole thing was planned?
What if my own best friend helped them set me up just to embarrass me in front of the entire school?
That thought alone…
It broke me more than anything else.
You would think that after two whole years, I would have forgotten him.
That I would have healed… moved on… faced my life like nothing ever happened.
But the truth?
I never really found the strength to let it go.
Everything still feels fresh. Like it happened just yesterday.
Honestly… this is a complete disaster.
Because sooner or later, I’ll have to face the one person I hate the most in this world.
Sadiq.
After two years.
Wow. What joy.
“Miss Adebayo, are you even paying attention?”
That voice snapped me out of my thoughts immediately.
I blinked and turned, only to meet the sharp, angry stare of my Chemistry teacher—Mrs. Okonkwo.
She stood right beside my desk, arms folded tightly across her chest, one eyebrow raised. Her heels were tapping the tiled floor in irritation, and her glasses sat low on her nose as she sized me up like I had just committed a crime.
I didn’t even need anybody to tell me.
From just this first meeting, I had already tagged her as one of the strictest teachers in this school.
The kind that will not hesitate to disgrace you in front of everybody.
And right now?
All eyes were on me.
Trust me… you do not want to be in my shoes.
“Of course, ma,” I replied quickly, forcing myself to sit up straight like I had been listening all along.
————— Chapter 2 ——————
Seemingly satisfied with my answer, Mrs. Okonkwo adjusted her glasses and walked back to the front of the class, continuing her long lecture on nuclear energy like nothing happened.
I didn’t even bother pretending anymore.
I just waited… patiently… for her to turn and face the board.
The moment she did, my eyes drifted to the window by my side.
From there, I could see almost the entire school—the wide compound, students moving around, the dusty football field, palm trees swaying gently in the Lagos heat.
This school was big… very big.
Not like Golden Heights Academy in Abuja. That one was a private school—everything there was neat, controlled, and honestly… small.
A small smile crept onto my face as memories started rushing in.
Me and Amaka… walking to class together… laughing over nothing… sharing snacks during break time like two little children.
She’s the closest thing I have to a sister.
Since I don’t have siblings, she became everything—my friend, my comfort, my safe place.
When I told her I was coming back to Lagos, she was shattered.
And if I’m being honest…
I miss her. Badly.
Amaka was there for me when everything was falling apart. She helped me carry the weight I couldn’t handle alone. And right now, I just wish she could show up here one day, even if it’s just to remind me that I’m not alone.
But life no be like film.
From the corner of my eye, I noticed someone staring.
I didn’t even need to turn fully to know who it was.
Kemi.
Sitting right beside me.
Her eyes were fixed on me with that same look… the one I knew too well.
If I had the chance, I would have swapped seats immediately—even if it meant sitting in front of the class like a primary school student.
Anything was better than sitting next to her.
Because me and Kemi?
We have history.
And not the good kind.
There was a time when Kemi and I were inseparable.
Best friends.
The kind of friendship where people would say, “If you see one, the other must be close by.”
But now?
All I feel when I look at her is anger… and something deeper I don’t even want to name.
Still, I wasn’t about to let her ruin my day.
Not today.
Not my first day back.
I faced forward, pretending like I didn’t notice her stare. All I wanted was simple—to survive this period in peace and go home without any drama.
Because if this was the old me?
Ah.
I for don already give her one dirty slap wey go reset her brain.
But I’ve changed.
Or at least… I’m trying to.
And I have Zainab and Tolu to thank for that.
Zainab has been in my life for as long as I can remember. Our parents were close, so we practically grew up together. No matter what, she was always there.
Then we met Tolu in primary one.
I still remember that day clearly—we shared cupcakes during break time, laughed over nothing, and just like that, she became part of us.
From that moment, it was the three of us against the world.
Thinking about it now…
I miss them.
Suddenly, my stomach made a small, embarrassing sound.
Great.
Hunger.
Now that I think about it, I haven’t eaten anything since morning. And for some reason, I’m seriously craving something spicy… something satisfying.
Sharwama.
Or maybe meat pie.
Or even jollof rice with fried chicken.
Ah!
Whoever invented shawarma deserves an award, I swear. That soft wrap, the juicy chicken, the sauce wey dey drip… everything just dey enter one place perfectly.
Honestly?
I’m obsessed.
If they’re selling it in the school canteen today, then at least… something good will come out of this stressful day.
So far, the day wasn’t turning out too badly. I had even started to convince myself that maybe… just maybe… coming back wouldn’t be a total disaster.
“Daydreaming again, Miss Adebayo?”
Scratch that. Forget everything I just thought.
Suddenly, the day was beginning to spiral into my worst nightmare.
The moment she spoke, every head in the classroom turned toward me. Even Chinedu’s eyes—sharp and expectant—were fixed on me.
Perfect.
Now I was the center of attention. And trust me… being the center of attention is not my thing. Not at all.
“No, Mrs. Okonkwo… just thinking about how… um… fascinating nuclear energy is,” I stammered.
She looked at me over her glasses, her lips pressed into that tight line she always has when she knows someone is lying.
Oh, wonderful. She knew.
And just like that, it was official.
The award for “Worst Liar of the Year” goes to… drumroll, please… me.
Okay, maybe that was a bit dramatic, but you get the point.
Every eye in the class stayed locked on me, and my cheeks were starting to burn. I forced myself to look back at the board, praying for this lesson to end as quickly as possible.
Because if it didn’t… I was pretty sure I would embarrass myself even more before the day was over.
“If it’s so interesting…” Mrs. Okonkwo’s voice trailed off, sharp and calculating. “I suppose you won’t have a problem writing a two-thousand-word essay on nuclear energy, then?”
My heart sank.
So much for a relaxing weekend.
I plastered on a fake smile, shaking my head slowly.
“Excellent. The assignment is due Tuesday morning, sharp, and—”
A shrill bell cut her off mid-sentence.
“Oh, well… that’s enough for today’s class. Enjoy your weekend!” she called, snatching up her coffee and striding out of the room like a general leaving the battlefield.
Immediately, the classroom erupted into chaos. Students shoved books into bags, jabbered to their friends, and hurried to get out before the corridors became a mess.
I gathered my textbooks, neatly stacking them into my caramel shoulder bag, still trying to shake off the tension from the lesson.
Just as I was about to step toward the door, I felt it.
A pair of strong arms wrapped around my waist from behind, holding me in place.
I froze.
“Chinedu?” I hissed, twisting slightly, but he just smirked over my shoulder.
So much for sharwama… and for a peaceful exit.
————— Chapter 3——————
“Will it kill you to greet me?”
That voice…
My whole body went still.
Slowly, I turned around, already knowing who I was going to see—but still hoping, somehow, that I was wrong.
I wasn’t.
My eyes met his, and instantly, I regretted turning back.
“It’s been a while,” he said calmly.
Chinedu.
Just hearing his name in my head made everything feel… strange.
“Yeah… it has,” I replied, my voice coming out more guarded than I intended.
For a moment, neither of us spoke.
I took the chance to really look at him—something I hadn’t done in two years.
And just like before…
He hadn’t changed much.
Still had that effortlessly charming face. The kind that could make any girl forget her sense. His hair was still in that rough, slightly messy style, like he didn’t even try but still looked good anyway. And his eyes… sharp, observant, like he could read everything you were thinking.
I hate to admit it—even to myself—but he’s still one of the finest guys I’ve ever known.
And with looks like that?
You don’t need anybody to tell you he’s probably had plenty girls around him.
But that wasn’t what bothered me.
What bothered me was the fact that standing in front of him again… after everything…
My chest felt tight.
Like I didn’t know whether to be angry… or just walk away.
Suddenly, it hit me.
I had been staring at his face for way too long.
The way he was looking at me, I could tell he had asked a question… and I hadn’t answered.
“Sorry… what did you say?” I muttered, looking away quickly.
He hesitated for a second.
“How did you cope with what happened between you and Sa—”
He didn’t even finish.
The moment his words started forming, my expression changed instantly. My face tightened, and the anger I had been trying so hard to bury rose straight to the surface.
He saw it.
“Look, I know I shouldn’t have brought it up,” Chinedu said quickly, rubbing the back of his neck. “But since you came back, you’ve been acting like I don’t exist. You didn’t call, you didn’t text when you were in Abuja… nothing. I just need to know—are you angry with me or something?”
I swallowed hard.
There were too many things I wanted to say… too many emotions fighting inside me at once.
But only one sentence came out.
“I honestly don’t know.”
My voice was low, strained.
Because the truth is… I didn’t.
I didn’t know if I was angry, hurt, confused… or just tired.
The last thing I wanted was to start digging into the past again. Not here. Not now.
“Wait…” he said slowly, his eyes narrowing a little. “You don’t actually think I had anything to do with what Sadiq did to you two years ago… do you?”
I said nothing.
And that silence?
It said everything.
I watched as his expression changed right in front of me—shock first… then disbelief… and finally, something that looked a lot like pain.
When I didn’t say anything, his face softened… then slowly tightened with pain. He let out a deep breath like he had been holding it in for too long.
“Look,” Chinedu said quietly, “maybe what Sadiq did was unforgivable…”
I shut my eyes for a brief second.
Great.
First day back, and I’ve already heard that name twice.
What did I expect? That he would just disappear? Like he never existed?
“…but you can’t honestly believe I had anything to do with it,” Chinedu continued. “Yes, he’s my guy, but I’m not like him. I would never do that to you.”
His voice was steady… but there was something in it.
Something real.
I looked at him properly this time.
And for the first time since I got back… I hesitated.
Because the truth is—Chinedu had never given me a reason to doubt him. Not before everything happened. He had always been there, always had my back.
So why did I cut him off so easily?
Why did I just assume the worst?
A small part of me didn’t want to admit it… but maybe—
Maybe I was wrong.
Maybe I blamed him for something he had nothing to do with.
But even with that realization sitting heavy in my chest…
Trust didn’t come easy anymore.
Not after everything.
Because the people I trusted the most?
They were the same ones who hurt me the deepest.
“I don’t know what to believe anymore,” I finally said, my voice barely above a whisper. “Everything just… got messed up.”
For a moment, neither of us spoke.
The noise from the corridor faded into the background, like it was just the two of us standing there, stuck between the past and whatever this… was.
“I missed you, you know,” Chinedu said softly.
That one sentence?
It hit harder than I expected.
And for the first time since I stepped back into this school…
I felt my walls shake… just a little.
————— Chapter 4 ——————
When I didn’t say anything, his face softened… then slowly tightened with pain. He let out a deep breath like he had been holding it in for too long.
“Look,” Chinedu said quietly, “maybe what Sadiq did was unforgivable…”
I shut my eyes for a brief second.
Great.
First day back, and I’ve already heard that name twice.
What did I expect? That he would just disappear? Like he never existed?
“…but you can’t honestly believe I had anything to do with it,” Chinedu continued. “Yes, he’s my guy, but I’m not like him. I would never do that to you.”
His voice was steady… but there was something in it.
Something real.
I looked at him properly this time.
And for the first time since I got back… I hesitated.
Because the truth is—Chinedu had never given me a reason to doubt him. Not before everything happened. He had always been there, always had my back.
So why did I cut him off so easily?
Why did I just assume the worst?
A small part of me didn’t want to admit it… but maybe—
Maybe I was wrong.
Maybe I blamed him for something he had nothing to do with.
But even with that realization sitting heavy in my chest…
Trust didn’t come easy anymore.
Not after everything.
Because the people I trusted the most?
They were the same ones who hurt me the deepest.
“I don’t know what to believe anymore,” I finally said, my voice barely above a whisper. “Everything just… got messed up.”
For a moment, neither of us spoke.
The noise from the corridor faded into the background, like it was just the two of us standing there, stuck between the past and whatever this… was.
“I missed you, you know,” Chinedu said softly.
That one sentence?
It hit harder than I expected.
And for the first time since I stepped back into this school…
I felt my walls shake… just a little.
Trust is funny.
It takes years to build… and just seconds to destroy.
And once it’s broken?
Getting it back is almost impossible.
I let out a tired sigh, running my fingers through my hair slowly.
“I appreciate you trying to fix things,” I said quietly, avoiding his eyes, “but I’d rather not talk about it.”
He looked at me for a moment, like he wanted to say more.
“I get that,” Chinedu replied. “But you need to stop pushing me away. I may not know everything he did… but I’m not the one you should be blaming.”
Silence.
Heavy silence.
Before I could even respond, he shook his head slightly and turned, walking out of the classroom without looking back.
Just like that.
I stood there, watching him go.
And the annoying part?
He was right.
About everything.
—
“It’s so good to have you back!”
“Honestly, it’s about time jare!”
I stared at Tolu and Zainab with pure irritation as they both spoke at the same time.
If I had one naira for every time they’d said that today, I’d probably be rich by now.
I didn’t even reply.
I just took a long sip from my bottle of water, trying to ignore them.
We were seated in the school canteen, thankfully at one quiet corner. For once, I managed to escape the usual chaos.
Because if there’s one thing I cannot stand?
It’s school canteens.
Too noisy. Too crowded. Everybody shouting, laughing, dragging chairs like they’re fighting war.
“Why are you looking at us like that?” Zainab asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Because you people are talking too much,” I replied flatly.
Tolu scoffed. “Ah ah, see attitude. After two years, this is how you’ll be behaving?”
I rolled my eyes but couldn’t stop the small smile that tried to form.
Truth is… I missed this.
Their noise. Their drama. Their presence.
Even if I won’t admit it out loud.
“So…” Zainab leaned forward, lowering her voice like she was about to gist something serious. “Have you seen him yet?”
I paused mid-sip.
Of course.
There was only one him she could be talking about.
I slowly placed my bottle on the table.
“Yeah,” I said simply.
Tolu and Zainab exchanged looks immediately.
“And?” Tolu pressed.
I shrugged, acting like it didn’t matter.
“It was nothing.”
But the way my fingers tightened slightly around the bottle?
That one… I couldn’t hide.
Zainab suddenly clapped her hands together like she just remembered something important.
“Ah! By the way, have you checked your Snapchat today? I sent you like one thousand snaps!” she said excitedly.
I stared at her like she had lost her mind.
“One thousand? Are you okay?” I asked. “With Mrs. Okonkwo breathing down my neck since morning, you think I can even touch my phone? That woman already punished me with a two-thousand-word essay on nuclear energy.”
“Ahh, true!” Tolu said, snapping her fingers. “You had Chemistry third period. My condolences.”
Zainab rolled her eyes. “That your teacher sef… her dressing sense is a complete disaster.”
She said it so seriously, then took a big bite of her shawarma like she had just delivered breaking news.
I burst out laughing.
Trust Zainab—the self-appointed fashion police.
If your outfit no reach her standard, just forget it… she will analyze you from head to toe without mercy.
But to be fair, she had the right.
Zainab’s fashion sense? Top tier.
From her perfectly styled outfits to the way everything matched her light brown skin, she always looked like she just stepped out of a photoshoot.
“Please leave my teacher alone,” I said, still laughing. “At least she knows what she’s teaching.”
“Fashion is also important,” Zainab replied proudly, flipping her hair. “You people just don’t understand.”
Tolu scoffed. “Abeg, eat your food and rest.”
We all laughed again.
For a moment…
Everything felt normal.
Like the past two years didn’t exist.
Like nothing bad had ever happened.
I picked up my shawarma and took a bite, finally satisfying the craving that had been disturbing me since morning.
“Hmm… this is actually good,” I mumbled.
Tolu smirked. “Of course it is. You think I’ll let you come back and eat nonsense?”
I shook my head, smiling slightly.
Maybe…
Just maybe…
This place wouldn’t be so bad after all.
“Anyway,” Zainab said suddenly, her tone dropping as she leaned forward again, “back to what we were saying…”
I already knew where this was going.
I sighed.
“What now?”
She and Tolu exchanged another look.
Then Zainab spoke.
“So… what really happened between you and Sadiq that night?”
————— Chapter 5 ——————
Zainab was in her element as usual.
Today, she was wearing a black jacket over a fitted top with “YEEZUS” boldly written across it. Her indigo boyfriend jeans sat perfectly on her frame, paired with clean sporty sneakers and a sleek designer handbag.
Everything just… worked.
You could tell she didn’t just dress—she styled.
Tolu and I were nothing like that. We preferred simple—skinny jeans, flats, easy outfits. No stress. Meanwhile, Zainab? She could wake up and still look like she was heading for a fashion shoot.
Tolu sat quietly beside me, occasionally sipping her drink, while Zainab kept talking non-stop as usual. That’s just how they are—Zainab, loud and expressive… Tolu, calm and observant.
But don’t let her quietness fool you.
When Tolu decides to talk?
You’ll laugh whether you like it or not.
As they continued their gist, my attention drifted again.
And that was when I saw him.
Chinedu.
He was seated a few tables away… with a girl.
I narrowed my eyes slightly.
Wait.
That girl…
Kemi.
Out of all people.
My brows furrowed immediately.
Before I could even process it properly, I felt a nudge on my arm.
“Hello? Earth to you,” Tolu said. “Were you even listening to anything I said?”
“Since when did Chinedu and Kemi start sitting together?” I asked, completely ignoring her.
Zainab and Tolu exchanged a look.
“Oh… you didn’t know?” Zainab said slowly.
I frowned. “Know what?”
Zainab leaned back, shaking her head. “Omo, you really need update.”
Tolu didn’t sugarcoat it.
“They’ve been dating since last summer.”
I choked.
Water flew out of my mouth before I could stop myself, spraying into the air.
Coughing, I grabbed my chest.
Perfect.
Just perfect.
“You’re actually mad,” Zainab snapped, glaring at me. “I was about to eat that apple!”
Tolu pushed her tray slightly away. “Yeah… I’ve lost my appetite too.”
I wiped my mouth quickly, still in shock.
“You people must be joking,” I said. “And none of you thought it was important to tell me this?”
Zainab shrugged. “A lot has changed since you left.”
Then she tilted her head, studying me carefully.
“Besides…” she added, “why do you even care?”
I opened my mouth to respond—
But nothing came out.
Because that question?
It hit somewhere I wasn’t ready to explain.
“It’s not that I care,” I said quickly, folding my arms. “I just… didn’t expect him to keep something like that from me.”
Tolu raised an eyebrow.
“You expected Chinedu to update you about his life… after you ignored him for two whole years?”
Zainab nodded immediately. “Exactly! That’s what I’m saying.”
I frowned. “But he’s my best friend!”
Zainab threw her hand up. “Best friend where? Be honest with yourself. When last did you even talk to him?”
I hesitated for a second.
“Today,” I finally said. “After third period… we talked.”
The moment the words left my mouth, my mind replayed everything.
I may not fully know what he did to you… but I am not the one to blame.
His voice echoed clearly.
And somehow… it made my chest feel heavy again.
Tolu watched me closely, her expression soft but knowing.
“From the way you’re talking,” she said gently, “I don’t think that conversation went well.”
I let out a small, dry laugh.
“That obvious?”
Zainab leaned forward immediately, interest written all over her face. “What did he say? What did you say? Did you people argue? Did you almost cry? Give us full gist abeg!”
“Tolu, control your friend,” I muttered.
“I’m not controlling anybody,” Tolu replied calmly, sipping her drink.
I shook my head, resting my elbow on the table.
“It wasn’t… a fight,” I said slowly. “He just… wanted to know why I cut him off.”
“And?” Tolu asked.
I paused.
Because the truth?
I didn’t even have a solid answer.
“I don’t know,” I admitted quietly. “I just… assumed things.”
Zainab frowned. “Assumed what?”
I looked down at my hands.
“That he was involved,” I said. “With what Sadiq did.”
Silence.
Even Zainab didn’t have anything to say immediately.
Tolu sighed softly. “And now?”
I swallowed.
“Now… I’m not so sure anymore.”
Zainab leaned back, shaking her head slowly. “Omo… this one is complicated.”
“Very,” Tolu added.
I glanced back toward where Chinedu was sitting.
He was still there… laughing at something Kemi said.
Like everything was normal.
Like nothing ever happened.
And for some reason…
That bothered me more than I expected.
————— Chapter 6 ——————
Zainab raised a quizzical eyebrow, leaning forward. “So… what did you guys even talk about?”
I shifted uneasily in my seat, taking a deep breath before spilling everything.
I told them how Chinedu knew I’d been avoiding him for two years, how he insisted he had nothing to do with Sadiq’s stupid scheme, and how he just didn’t want to be blamed for someone else’s nonsense.
“See?” Zainab said, nudging me gently. “He’s right, you know. You need to stop pushing him away. He’s always been a good friend to you.”
I nodded absentmindedly, my eyes flicking up to meet hers. “You’re probably right… I do need to put the past behind me.”
Tolu chimed in, voice calm but matter-of-fact. “If it makes you feel better, Sadiq’s not even in school today.”
I rolled my eyes and waved her off. “Tolu… you’re obviously mistaking me for someone who gives a damn.”
She shrugged, mumbling nervously, “Alright… fine. I won’t mention his name again.”
With that, our conversation ended, and we all headed to our lockers to grab textbooks for the final period.
By the time school ended, I was already gathering my belongings in a rush. No point waiting for Zainab and Tolu—they had swimming practice every Friday after school, and I wasn’t about to hold them up.
I shoved my heavy textbooks into my locker, zipped my bag, and pushed through the exit that led to the parking lot.
The walk was short, and soon enough, the gleam of a latest edition Mercedes-Benz caught my eye.
I couldn’t help the small smile that spread across my face.
I would forever be grateful to my dad. He had recently entrusted me with his old car, and honestly… it felt surreal.
I had always dreamed of having a car of my own, but never, not even in my wildest dreams, did I expect to have one at seventeen.
My dad said I was old enough, especially since I’d had my driver’s license for almost a year now.
The thought made me feel a little grown-up, a little independent… and, for the first time that day, a little free.
I slid into the driver’s seat, inhaling the scent of leather and polished metal, and smiled.
Maybe… just maybe… this year wouldn’t be so bad after all.
I froze mid-step.
That voice… that infuriating voice.
It cut through the air like a knife.
“…Why the hell did you come back?”
My stomach sank. My heart rate spiked.
I slowly turned toward the source, gripping my bag tighter, and there he was.
Sadiq Bello.
Standing by the school gate with that same arrogant grin plastered across his face, hands shoved casually into his pockets. The sunlight hit his hair just right, making it even more infuriatingly perfect.
“You again?” I hissed under my breath, more to myself than him.
He took a step closer, his eyes glinting with that familiar mischief, like he already knew how much he could get under my skin.
“I asked you a question, Emery,” he said, voice low but sharp. “Why the hell did you come back?”
My fists clenched at my sides. I wanted to yell. I wanted to storm past him. But I reminded myself—it was my car. My space. And I wasn’t about to give him the satisfaction of controlling my emotions.
I squared my shoulders, meeting his gaze head-on.
“I came back because I wanted to,” I said coldly, trying to keep my voice steady. “Now… if you’ll excuse me, I have somewhere to be.”
Sadiq’s smirk widened, and I could feel his eyes burning into me as I opened my car door.
This was going to be a long year.
————— Chapter 7 ——————
If I had heard his voice two years ago, my heart would have skipped.
That stupid, uncontrollable excitement… butterflies, racing heartbeat, all of it.
But now?
As I stood there in the parking lot, fists clenched, jaw tight, anger burning through me…
All I felt was rage.
Pure rage.
I slowly turned to face him.
“Do you own this place?” I shot back, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “No? I didn’t think so.”
Sadiq’s eyes narrowed instantly.
That familiar tension returned—the same one from two years ago. The sharp words, the silent battles, the way we used to go at each other like enemies even before everything fell apart.
Except now?
There was nothing holding me back.
“You still didn’t answer my question,” he said, his tone hard.
I swallowed, forcing myself to stand my ground even though my heart was pounding so loudly I was sure he could hear it.
Of course.
Of all days… he just had to show up today.
Wasn’t I told he wouldn’t be in school?
I wasn’t ready for this.
Not yet.
Not like this.
“I don’t owe you any answer,” I replied coldly.
He took a step closer, his expression darkening.
“No, see what’s going to happen,” he said, his voice low but sharp. “I’ll personally drive you to the airport, and you’ll take the next flight back to wherever you came from.”
I let out a short, humourless laugh.
“Me and you? In the same car?” I raised an eyebrow. “Yeah… that’s never happening.”
Silence stretched between us.
He didn’t speak for a few seconds, like he was searching for the perfect thing to say next.
But I didn’t give him the chance.
“I’m going to pretend this conversation never happened,” I cut in sharply. “And for the rest of this term, you don’t exist to me.”
I stepped closer, my voice dropping.
“So do yourself a favour…”
I met his eyes, unflinching.
“And get lost.”
————— Chapter 8 ——————
“You’ve got to be joking…” Sadiq muttered, his expression darkening instantly. “So you’re really staying here this whole term?”
I didn’t answer.
I just stared at him, my fists tightening at my sides.
He stepped closer.
Too close.
His height alone was intimidating—I had to tilt my head slightly just to meet his eyes. And that stupid, arrogant look on his face?
It made my blood boil.
At the same time… my mind was going blank.
He was standing so near I could feel his breath, and for a second, I hated how my body reacted—tense, confused, alert.
I wanted to leave.
Immediately.
“Why don’t you leave her alone?”
That voice.
I didn’t think I’d ever be this relieved to hear it.
Chinedu.
“Guy, this one no concern you,” Sadiq snapped, turning toward him.
“Come on, Sadiq,” Chinedu said firmly. “She’s been through enough. Just give her space.”
I caught the look he gave me—soft, almost pitying.
And I hated it.
All day, people had been looking at me like that.
Like I was some fragile thing that needed protection.
I’m not.
I can handle myself.
Even if Chinedu meant well… this wasn’t his fight.
“I’m back, Sadiq,” I said sharply, stepping forward slightly. “And there’s nothing you can do about it. If that pains you so much, go and write it down somewhere and deal with it yourself.”
For a split second, something flashed in his eyes.
Anger.
Real anger.
“You really think this is over?” he said quietly.
Then just like that, he turned and walked off toward the football field, his shoulders tense.
Silence followed.
Heavy silence.
“Are you okay?” Chinedu asked after a moment.
“Yes. I’m fine,” I replied quickly, straightening up.
He didn’t move.
Didn’t look convinced either.
“You know I can always tell when you’re lying,” he said, stepping closer.
I shifted slightly, uncomfortable.
Why is everybody standing so close today?
“I said I’m fine,” I insisted. “I just want to go home.”
I took a step back, ready to leave—
But his hand caught my arm.
Firm.
Stopping me.
————— Chapter 9 ——————
“Wait… Amara, I—”
“Babe, I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”
I closed my eyes briefly.
Of course.
Of course this had to happen now.
I slowly turned as Kemi walked up to us, her expression soft the moment she looked at Chinedu… then instantly hard the second her eyes landed on me.
Another death stare.
Lovely.
I seem to be collecting those like awards today.
She slipped her arm around his, like she needed to mark territory.
“Is she bothering you?” she asked, looking straight at him like I wasn’t even standing there.
For a second, I was too stunned to speak.
The audacity.
I let out a dry laugh.
“You know what, Kemi? Your mouth actually looks better when it’s closed,” I snapped, my tone sharp.
Her head whipped toward me immediately.
“What did you just say to me?” she gasped, stepping forward.
I didn’t move.
Not even an inch.
Before things could escalate, Chinedu stepped between us, holding her back slightly.
“Relax,” he said. “I was just talking to her. She wasn’t bothering me.”
Kemi scoffed, clearly not satisfied, but she stayed where she was.
Then she looked at me again—this time with pure venom.
“Why don’t you just do everyone a favour and go back to Abuja?” she said. “Run like you always do.”
My jaw tightened.
But I refused to give her the reaction she wanted.
“Keep talking,” I replied calmly. “One day, you might actually say something intelligent.”
That did it.
I didn’t wait for whatever she was going to say next.
I turned on my heel and walked straight to my car, ignoring both of them completely.
Once I got inside, I shut the door and leaned back against the seat, letting out a long, heavy breath.
Silence.
Finally.
I rubbed my forehead slowly, exhaustion hitting me all at once.
What was I even thinking?
Coming back here… acting like things would be different.
I should have known better.
By the time I got home—bursting through the door like I had just escaped a war zone—I paused.
Something felt… off.
Too quiet.
Usually, my dad would be sprawled on the couch, remote in hand, glued to the TV, switching between news and those long political discussions I never understood.
But today?
Nothing.
No TV sound. No movement.
I dropped my bag slightly and looked around, taking in the house properly.
Our home was one of those modern duplexes you’d see in high-end estates. Clean lines, glass railings, polished tiles… everything just screamed class. The living room flowed straight into the kitchen and dining area, and the whole place had that calm, expensive feel.
Upstairs, the rooms were arranged around a small open space that led to a curved balcony. From there, you could see almost the entire compound.
Honestly… my dad did well.
I shook off the thought and headed straight to the kitchen.
Opening one of the cabinets, I grabbed a mug and poured myself some chilled orange juice from the fridge.
One sip.
Two.
Relief.
Without thinking, I dropped the cup into the sink.
Yeah… future me will deal with that.
Because if my dad sees it?
He’ll definitely give me one long lecture about responsibility and “being a grown young woman.”
But since he wasn’t home yet…
That meant—
I had the whole house to myself.
“Hey, my girl. How was your first day?”
I froze.
Spoke too soon.
Slowly, I looked up as my dad appeared, coming down the staircase with that relaxed but observant expression he always had.
He walked into the kitchen, adjusting his watch slightly.
My dad was in his early forties, but honestly, you wouldn’t even guess. Tall, well-built, clean beard, always looking put together. The kind of man people respect without him even trying.
Sometimes I wonder if I got even half of my looks from him.
“School was…” I trailed off, picking my words carefully. “Eventful.”
He raised an eyebrow immediately.
“Eventful how?”
I leaned against the counter, crossing my arms.
“Let’s just say… everybody I didn’t want to see today—I saw them.”
He gave a small knowing nod.
“Hmm.”
Of course he understood.
He always does… even when I don’t explain everything.
“Anyone in particular?” he asked casually.
I hesitated.
Then sighed.
“Sadiq.”
The moment his name left my mouth, my dad’s expression changed—just slightly, but enough for me to notice.
“And?” he asked calmly.
I shrugged, trying to act like it didn’t matter.
“And nothing. He’s still the same.”
My dad studied me for a second longer.
Then he walked closer, resting his hand lightly on the counter.
“You sure you’re okay?”
I forced a small smile.
“I’m fine, Dad.”
He didn’t look convinced.
But he didn’t push.
“Alright,” he said finally. “There’s food in the kitchen. I made jollof rice and grilled chicken.”
That instantly caught my attention.
“Wait… you cooked?” I asked, surprised.
He smirked slightly. “Don’t sound so shocked.”
I couldn’t help it—I smiled properly this time.
Maybe…
Just maybe…
Being back home wouldn’t be so bad after all.
————— Chapter 10 ——————
My eyes widened immediately when I noticed what he was holding.
A paint bucket.
I didn’t even think twice—I ran straight to him and wrapped my arms tightly around him.
“I can’t believe you painted my room! Thank you, Dad,” I said into his chest, my voice slightly muffled from the hug.
He chuckled softly, patting my back.
“You’ve been disturbing me about it all summer,” he replied. “So take it as your first-day-of-school gift.”
I smiled, holding him a little tighter.
Moments like this?
They reminded me how lucky I was.
My dad and I have always been close—really close. Unlike some of my friends who can’t even stand their fathers, mine has always been present… always trying.
Even after he and my mum separated when I was about ten.
They were just… different people. That’s all.
The divorce wasn’t easy, but somehow, they managed to stay civil. Stay respectful.
And honestly, that was enough for me.
“By the way,” my dad added casually, “your mum called earlier. She said you should call her back.”
Just like that, my mood shifted.
I pulled away from the hug, muttering under my breath.
The last thing I wanted right now… was to talk to her.
“Yeah… I’ll call her later,” I said quickly, hoping he wouldn’t push it.
But of course, he did.
He placed a firm hand on my shoulder, giving me that look.
“Amara, make sure you call your mum.”
I frowned, already tired.
“Fine, Dad. I will,” I said, even though we both knew I wasn’t planning to do it anytime soon.
He let go, and I turned, heading upstairs.
“Amara, you didn’t wash your cup!”
I ignored him completely and walked straight into my room.
The moment I stepped in, I stopped.
Wow.
I looked around slowly, taking everything in.
The walls were freshly painted a soft violet colour, giving the room this calm, almost dreamy feel. The scent of fresh paint still lingered in the air, mixing with something light and floral.
My curtains matched perfectly—silver and purple—falling neatly beside my window. My bedspread was the same shade, layered with white pillows and cushions.
And my walls?
Covered with posters of my favourite artists—Beyoncé, The Weeknd…
Everything just felt… right.
Like mine.
I dropped my bag on the floor instead of placing it neatly where it belonged.
Normally, I’d care.
Right now?
I couldn’t even pretend.
I fell back onto my bed, staring at the ceiling, letting the day replay in my head.
Sadiq.
Chinedu.
Kemi.
Everything.
I sighed.
It’s fine. Just do the assignment tomorrow. You need rest.
Yeah… that sounded like a good plan.
I closed my eyes for a second—
Then forced myself back up.
“Nope,” I muttered. “You’re not failing on your first week.”
I reached for my laptop on the nightstand and opened it, ready to start my essay.
If I wanted a good grade, I had to start now.
Just as I settled in—
🎵 I’ve got my eyes on you… you’re everything that I see… 🎵
My ringtone filled the room.
I groaned loudly, dragging my bag closer and pulling out my phone without checking the screen.
“Hello?” I answered, already annoyed.
“I told you… this conversation is far from over.”
My entire body went still.
That voice.
Sadiq.
I sat up straight immediately, my grip tightening around the phone.
You’ve got to be kidding me.
To be CONTINUED………………… Dear reader, I’m still writing this story so kindly join our Reader’s club 👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼👉🏼STORIESBYADA LOVERS❤️if you want to know when i add new chapters. So you can come back to read up.
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