THE ESCAPADE

 

THE ESCAPADE

      The sky had gone dark with the absence of the riant sun which shone with luminance hours ago; unseen birds were chirping loudly with the trees - their abode, little ants marched past like soilders, carrying remnants along with them . I blinked, beaming like a young primary pupil's face would gleam at the sight of an excellent result at the end of the school session. I flinched slightly when it struck my mind of how risky our arranged meeting was and how Uncle Uti would flare up with seething fury. I could see him now, fuming with his large eyeballs sparkling with fury and the desk in his reading room, whining; papers flying across the room. I could call Uncle Uti a tribalist but the fear which grasp my heart left me dumbfounded - making a foolery out of me at times. I knew he liked Chima and his hatred for Wale, my love was as a result of his background and he, being a Yoruba. I held on to Wale, assured yet quivering. Wale was a boxer and at daytime, he wrestled with his counterparts with the spectators rendering panegyrics and reference but Wale won't contend with Uncle Uti and helpless, have I became. 

         We sat there on the pavement of the Orisun Factory, hand in hand under the serene stillness of the night as we stared, saying nothing. Stroking my short curls which I had perfectly and thoroughly styled with gel before my arrival , he whispered words I couldn't decipher for I was enthralled and spellbound . I recoiled with he, caressing my neck. Now, we were carefree with no anxiety. Our bond and the pleasure we derive from being together was our concern. Holding on to his sturdy shoulders, I sang with delight like a kingfisher in the woods with my eyes closed slightly , savouring his gentle touch. I was a soprano singer at St Peters Anglican Church and my voice as Wale would say was melodious and worth listening to. I stood still, quailing with my pouted lips.

          "Wale, I should go. Uncle Uti will get home soon, he went out with his friends. His wife is yet to arrive from the market. I had to keep my promise. " I mumbled, chuckling as I watched his gaze, curious and dissapointed. My stomach churned while I wet my lips like one rendering a plea to receive more sweet nectar from his lips. 

             "How's he? " Wale asked, frowning. 

              "If I stay ten minute more, I'll be doomed and he will be enraged. "

               "You gleam even in the dark, Ndidi. " he complimented

                " Oh Wale! " I giggled. 

                "Ndidi!!!! " I heard a loud call, I quivered knowing whose voice it was. Standing upright, I yelled with my hands supporting my wrapper from falling. It was he, the short devil, Uncle Uti! 

@Opemiplenty

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