HER LAST WISH Episode 56 by Azeemah Salami
Layla woke up the next morning feeling slightly uncomfortable, she said her morning prayer in bed and remained in bed for some minutes before finally sitting up.
She didn’t know how she was feeling, she just wasn’t feeling herself plus she’s so weak and nauseous.
Slowly slipping her feet into her slippers, she stood up and opened her curtain and as the daylight streamed in and she saw her body, she screamed.
Her heartbeat accelerated as she stared at the purple stretchmarks on her upper arms, they looked so bold and glaring, something that hadn’t even been there yesterday or even before she went to bed, She sigh, her heartbeat slowing. Of course it’s one of the symptoms but she didn’t remember her mum or Bryan having these on their skin, except perhaps they had hid it.
She slowly sat on her bed and took a close look at the gory sight on her upper arms. It stood out on her skin looking so ugly and she knows for sure that she better not wear anything sleeveless out of the house.
What if it ends up covering her whole body and her face, what is she going to do then?
What if it extends to every part of her body while she slept and then she wakes up to it.
She has been nonchalant about her health condition and then this pops up to remind her not to really relax.
“Layla did you scream just now? I think I heard you scream…are you okay?” Phil asked from the door.
“Yeah” Layla said, her voice quivering.
“Are you sure?”
“Yeah”
“Okay” Phil walked away.
She walked to the mirror and stared at the stretchmarks reflection. She felt so angry and wanted to scream at it until her voice burned out.
She hated it so much and she started scrubbing it real hard with her hands, in tears. Like that would make it go away.
It looked even worst after she was done and she screamed in anger, banging her dressing table, tossing her stuff in different direction.
Phil rushed into her room, alarmed.
“What’s wrong?” She asked worriedly, yet to see the stretchmarks.
“Oh My God” She exclaimed on seeing it, her hands covering her mouth.
“Just leave, don’t make me feel worse than I already feel” Layla wiped her tears, sitting on the dressing chair. It’s pointless to cry, crying won’t make it go away, it won’t solve anything.
Phil stood, watching her without saying anything. It’s taking everything in her not to cry.
This shows that the days are really drawing near.
Layla grabbed her comb and started combing her hair angrily, not minding the huge chunk that was falling off.
“Stop!” Phil grabbed the comb from her hands.
She picked another comb and continued.
Phil grabbed it from her again, terrified and ended up shifting the whole set of hair comb away.
“What is wrong with you!” Phil scolded..
“There’s nothing wrong with me! I just want everything to fall off, is it not going to fall off eventually” Layla replied, seething.
“I know you’re mad right now but doing this won’t help! Just be calm okay?” Phil said and Layla chuckled sadly.
“Of course you would say that, you don’t even know how I’m feeling!.” She slammed.
Phil sigh. “I understand how you’re feeling Layla, even if I don’t have the right words to say in this moment but I really do feel your pain and I wish I could help” Phil said.
“You would help by leaving my room, I want to be alone” Layla said, getting up from the chair.
“Layla….”
“Just leave, please” She said. “I really want to be alone”
“I’m not leaving” Phil said adamantly.
“Phil, that’ll be the best thing you would do for me right now, I want a moment to myself”
“You’re not going to hurt yourself, are you?” Phil asked suspiciously.
“No”
“I don’t trust you” Phil said.
“I swear, I’m not going to hurt myself, there’s no reason for me to do that”
Phil stared at her for a while… Layla’s actually not someone to do that but who knows? Anything can trigger anyone to do what they wouldn’t normally do.
“Okay…I’m going to leave the door open, you can come in here every seconds if you want to confirm if I’m hurt or not.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yeah”
“Okay” Phil sigh, stared at her before walking out of the room.
Layla locked the door immediately Phil walked out.
“You said you weren’t going to lock the door!!” Phil shouted, banging the door.
“Just leave, I do not want to see anyone”
“Why did you lock the door! OMG…are you going to hurt yourself?”
“No…just leave me alone!” Layla screamed.
Phil sigh, she stayed by the door for some minutes, straining her ears to hear any sound that’ll confirm if Layla is trying to hurt herself.
She tried to peep into the keyhole but couldn’t see a thing.
“OMG, you’re not going to rip the rest of your hair off, are you?” Phil asked.
“Layla” Phil called, terrified when she didn’t hear anything again.
“OMG Layla!” Phil screamed banging the door.
“I’m fine” Layla screamed. “Get out of there! I want to sleep”
Phil sigh in relief, she was actually about tearing down the door.
“Okay…I’m leaving” She said, waited a few more minutes before walking away.
Layla got back on the bed and pulled the covers over her body, crying silently until she fell asleep again.
***
“I’m going to tell her today, you better get ready to approach Fel also” Dan said on the phone with Rylan.
“Well…until I confirm you really did approach Layla” Ry said.
“Okay, you wait” Dan said and Ry could sense the determination in his voice.
“Looks like you’re really going to do this today”
“Of course I’m going to”
“Bravo. Call me later to give me the feedback okay?” Rylan said.
“Alright” Dan said.
He sigh after disconnecting the call.
He can’t believe he’s going to do this, even after knowing he’ll get rejected but he doesn’t care anymore, he’s going to go ahead.
He wants to spill his heart, anything that’s going to come after…. he’s going to sort it.
Letting out his mind is his first priority for now. It’s going to at least set his heart free and probably make him move on, he can’t continue harboring this feelings in him forever. It’s draining. He has to let it go for his own sanity.
He won’t lie he’s really nervous but he’s really determined this time, what has to be done should be done and he’s going to make sure what he’s about to do won’t ruin his friendship with her.
He got up to go take his bath, he’s then going to eat breakfast and head to the Cafe later in the day.
He’s really hoping he doesn’t change his mind.
***
Layla woke up, feeling a bit better. She glanced at her upper arms and her heart sank, seeing the gory sight was still very visible.
She can’t even believe she expected it to clear off. It’s going to be there forever and she’d be so lucky if it doesn’t extend to the other part of her body.
She got off the bed and headed to the bathroom.
After brushing her teeth and having a thorough bath where she had scrubbed the stretchmarks, she came to the conclusion that scrubbing it is only going to make it worse, so she’s just going to let it be.
She dried her body on walking back to her room, applied her body lotion and then selected a plain white hoodie and black pants, she’s not planning on going anywhere today except the store though to get a tinkle razor for her facial shaving.
She walked to her mirror and checked out her hair, she’s so lucky Phil had grabbed the hair combs from her, she can’t bear looking bald plus these ish on her upper arms. It’s truly bad to do things out of anger, the result is not always the best.
She made her bed, arranged her room before stepping out.
The aroma of a meal hit her as soon as she stepped out of her room.
What did Phil order? Gosh… it’s starting to make her salivate.
She realised she was really hungry.
“Uh…it’s 2pm already” Layla said as she glanced at the wall clock in the living room.
She headed to the dining room to check whatever it is Phil had ordered that has thrown her stomach in such turmoil…but surprisingly the dining table was empty.
What?
Is the aroma coming from one of their neighbors apartment? Oh God, she’d be so disappointed if it was.
It can’t possibly be from their neighbors apartment, it’s so strong to be coming from another apartment.
Of course it’s coming from the kitchen, why didn’t she think of that.
Phil is microwaving whatever she had ordered.
As she got closer to the kitchen, she thought the meal smelled familiar…like the homemade meal her mum usually made.
On getting to the kitchen, she realised Phil wasn’t microwaving any meal…
She was cooking!!
Layla further stepped into the kitchen… Everywhere looked a mess, pots in different directions and some of it even looked burnt but..
Phil was cooking!
Since she started living with her, this will be the first time she would see her cook…she even had an apron on with a hair cover and she looked so weird and funny.
Layla chuckled, alerting her presence to Phil, who turned to her immediately.
“You’re awake” Phil smiled and Layla started laughing on seeing Phil’s face…
It was stained with most of the ingredients she was using to cook, a small chunk of vegetable was plastered on her jaw, looking like a single green beard …. She doubt Phil is aware of how funny she looks.
“What?” Phil asked, wondering what’s making Layla laugh.
“Nothing” Layla grinned, she had to stop laughing, not wanting Phil to suspect anything, she’s enjoying seeing Phil look this way.
God, she wish she could take a picture.
“Are you okay now?” Phil asked.
“Yeah and I don’t want to talk about it” Layla said.
“Okay” Phil nodded.
“Phil…are you really cooking?” Layla asked, moving closer to the stove.
“Yeah, I’m making a meal with your mum’s recipe book. I knew you’d be hungry by the time you wake up. ”
“Oh Thank you” Layla felt touched. Although she knew it’s a normal thing an Aunt can do for her niece but this coming from Phil means a lot to her, Phil is never someone to go out of her way for someone.
“I bet the aroma woke you up” Phil said, looking proud of herself.
Layla laughed…. “I didn’t actually perceive it until I stepped out of my room”
“Oh” Phil feigned a disappointed look and they laughed.
It felt so good even though it was kind of awkward for the both of them.
“Before getting to the kitchen, I thought the aroma of the meal was familiar, now I know why” Layla smiled.
“I don’t find cooking fun in any way, it’s so stressful. I wonder how people do it. You can see I burned several pots already” Phil shook her head.
“You’ve never cooked?” Layla asked.
“Well…I have but not something as serious as this, even before you came to live with me, I eat takeout most times..and pizza. Celine is always the one who cooks in the house” Phil said.
Layla smiled, this would be the first time Phil would mention her mum’s name with such affection.
“Anyway….take over, the meal is almost ready. I need to go clean up and these pots…throw them away, we’ll get another set” Phil said, untying her apron.
“Okay” Layla said.
Layla grinned, imagining how Phil is going to react when she finally sees her face in the mirror.
“Why are you grinning?” Phil asked.
“I remembered something” Layla said, folding in her lips.
“Oh…I’ll go ahead now” Phil said, walking out of the kitchen.
*
Phil stepped into the dining room just as Layla finished setting the table.
“You didn’t actually remember anything, you were laughing because of my face” Phil glared at Layla who burst into laughter again.
***
“Hi Layla” Dan said into the phone..
“Dan, Hi” Layla said, wearing her slippers. She’s about to go get the Tinkle razor at the store.
She had planned to shave her face since yesterday, her facial hair is starting to get real much and she wondered if it’s part of the symptoms because she’s never one with a very hairy face.
It’s so funny how she’s gaining facial hair and loosing the hair on her head.
“I checked you at the Cafe just now and Aria said you won’t be coming. Are you okay?”
“Yeah, I’m fine. I just decided to take a rest today” She said, heading to the living room.
“Oh, that’s cool. You know I said I had something to tell you”
“Yeah”
“I decided to tell you today” He said.
“Really? Are you still at the Cafe?”
“No, I’m headed to your house now”
“I’m also going to get something at the store, I’m just going to meet you outside and you can tell me on our way there”
“Oh fine”
“See ya”
“Phil, I’ll be right back, I want to get something from the store”
“Oh Okay”
Layla headed out of the house and stood by the gate, the direction Dan is coming from is not the direction to the store.
They’re both just going to head there when he gets here.
She smiled as she saw him approach, her heart performing those funny gymnast dance, she ignores it whenever her heart react to Dan’s presence because why not?
There’s no reason she should accommodate the feelings she has for him.
“Hey” He smiled, finally getting to her.
He was in a brown bummer jacket and pale jeans, his hair worn back and that was it, yet Dan looked so beautiful.
“Hi” she smiled back.
“Are you okay? You are not looking… your usual self” He said.
“Really? I guess it’s because I got up from bed just some moments ago, my face is yet to adjust to today” Layla lied.
“Oh, thought as much” Dan said.
“You’re going to get something from the store right? Let’s go” He said and they both started walking in the direction of the store.
“White looks good on you though” He complimented as they walked…
“Really…thank you” She said.
“I think this is actually my first time seeing you wear a hoodie” Dan said.
“Really?”
“Yeah”
“Well…I’m not much of a hoodie person, I guess that’s the reason”
“Obviously. Geez, it’s cold” Dan said.
“Yeah, right. I can’t wait to get back into the house. Why didn’t you come with your car?” Layla asked.
“I didn’t feel like. So I just hailed a cab”
“Oh” She said, wondering what Dan wanted to say to her.
She has never really given it a thought since he told her he has something to say to her, to be honest she had even forgotten about it until he called.
“You have something to say to me right?” Layla said.
Dan swallowed hard, starting to think he should perhaps do this another day.
“Well…yeah, let’s get the stuff from the store first” He said.
“Oh Okay”
Dan stood outside the store, preparing himself while Layla was inside. She had told him to come in with her but he had given a dumb excuse.
He needed a moment to himself.
If he doesn’t tell her as soon as she comes outside then he doubts he’s ever going to do it again.
His palms felt sweaty and his heart raced as Layla stepped out, she walked towards him and just when she got to him, he blurted out the words.
“I like you…. Layla”
She glanced at his face and then smiled.”Of course I like you too” “Let’s go, so you can tell me what you want to” She said.
“That’s what I want to tell you and… I mean I have feelings for you, I’ve… liked you for…a while, i mean for long now and I kept holding back from telling you how I feel because of the circumstance surrounding us, I couldn’t develop the nerve to tell you how strong my feelings are for you, how much I really wanted us to be more than friends.” Dan swallowed hard and then continued. “I didn’t want anything affecting our friendship, and also the fact that you have feelings for Dylan. Anytime I…. summon courage to tell you how I feel, I just end up changing my mind .. it’s draining seeing you almost all the time and not being able to tell you how I feel… It’s crazy, I didn’t even know how it happened. To be honest, If it was left to me, I wouldn’t have made that happen because…it just seems…too complicated. And it really… took me a lot to stand before you and tell you these” Dan said and didn’t know where the relief came from, it felt as though a huge burden has been lifted off him though he was nervous as hell but he felt so free.
“You’re….You have…you have feelings for me? ” Layla asked after shutting out for a long moment.
Dan nodded.
“You… Dan… are you really serious about this?” Layla asked, looking like she was in shock.
“Yes Layla” Dan said not knowing where the strength came from, he didn’t expect to feel this way after confessing his feelings to Layla. He pictured himself feeling just the opposite of how he was feeling now.
“When…you told me you liked me by your locker…was this what you meant?”
“Yeah”
“Oh Dan…” Layla said, trying not to cry. She did not knowing what to say. She’s still in shock. Her heart was thumping so hard that she hoped it won’t burst out.
Dan likes her, Dan fucking likes her.
“Look, don’t feel pressured. I know you like another person, I only told you this to lift it off my mind. It’s fine Layla, don’t feel bad about having to reject me and all..I knew that before I approached you but… Please, let’s not make this affect our friendship, let’s just keep everything as it was, I know that will be hard but let’s try” Dan said.
“I… I… I don’t know what to say” Layla swallowed hard.
“I wasn’t expecting an answer either, you don’t have to say anything. You don’t know how glad I am that I finally got to tell you. Come, it’s cold… Let me walk you home” He said, holding her hand as he gently pulled her along.
“Dan, I’m so sorry” Layla said as they walked home.
“What? You shouldn’t apologize, it’s not your fault that your heart chose another, you have the right to decline my love no matter how pure my intentions are. And that’s totally fine, honestly” He assured.
If only he knew how much she wanted to jump into his hands and say yes! If only he knew how much she likes him too, if only he knew how much she wanted their relationship to be just more than friends.
If only her health wasn’t shitty!!!
How loving would it be to have her best friend turn boyfriend.
She hates herself so much right now.
Her eyes were laced with tears by the time they got to her gate. And she stared at her feet, not wanting Dan to see she’s about to cry.
“I’m going to leave now” He said.
“You’re not coming in? Why?” She asked.
“I have to be somewhere with Anne, I’m going to give you a call okay?”
“Okay” she nodded, still staring at her feet.
“Bye” He dropped her hand and hugged her.
“Bye” She said, and allowed her tears drop as she stepped into the gate.
She headed to her room immediately she got into the house.
She tossed the set of the Tinkle razor away and dropped on her bed, crying.
“That’s not the reason I’m sorry, you fool! ” She yelled at an imaginary Dan.
“I’m sorry because the person you have feelings for is going to die soon!! How could your heart even choose me, it’s so unfair to you! Why am I so cursed! Why do I always have to experience the end of things many times in my short life and now Life is done making me experience the end of other things but mine. Life has been so unfair to me!” Layla cried so painfully that it brought tears to Phil’s eyes, who was standing by the door…
………………………
HER LAST WISH Episode 57 by Azeemah Salami
Layla finally stepped out of her room the next morning, dressed for the Cafe.
Phil rushed to her… “How are you? Are you okay?”
Layla did not step out of her room since she came back from the store yesterday, she didn’t even had dinner, all she did was cry and yell. Phil had been so worried that she might even hurt herself.
“I’m fine” Layla said, heading to the living room.
She finally vented out yesterday, after months of keeping it in, months of bottling in her emotions. She finally exploded and she won’t lie it made her feel a bit better.
“You don’t have to go to the Cafe if you’re not feeling good enough” Phil said to her.
“I’m okay, I’ll feel even worse if I should stay at home. I have to go, besides the work would have been so stressful for Aria alone yesterday.”
“Aria doesn’t mind, after all she stays at the Cafe alone while you’re away at school, besides Aria is on the morning shift, you’re on the afternoon, it’s not like she’s doing your work for you, she’s only doing hers” Phil cleared.
“Well…I still want to go. ” Layla said.
“Fine, aren’t you going to eat something before leaving? The only thing you ate yesterday was that meal I prepared”
“I’m just going to microwave that. What should I prepare for you?” Layla asked, dropping her tote bag on the couch.
“I’ll have that also” Phil said.
“Once it’s 4pm, you guys should lock up”
“Why?”
“Nothing really… I just want the both of us to bake together” Phil said.
“Really?” Layla looked surprised.
“Yeah, now stop gazing like a doll and go microwave our breakfast” Phil said.
**
“God, I’ve been so worried… I planned to come check on you after I’m done here today, are you okay? You look so pale, you should have just stayed at home for a proper rest” Aria said worriedly.
“I’m fine now, though I was a bit down yesterday but it’s all good now” Layla said.
“Are you sure?”
“Yeah, for real” Layla smiled.
“Although Phil had called me yesterday morning to tell me you won’t be coming, that you had to take a rest but I started getting worried when I called you after I was done here and you didn’t pick up, I called severally”
“I guess I wasn’t with my phone that moment” Layla lied.. Aria had called during the moment she was venting and yelling and shouting and crying.
“Wow…I’m just realising I’ve not even pick my phone since yesterday, except when Dan called” Layla said, searching her tote bag for her phone.
She brought it out and didn’t only only see the missed calls from Aria but Dan also…He must be thinking she’s deliberately avoiding him because of what he told her yesterday.
She dialled his number immediately.
“Hi Dan” She said as he answered the phone.
“Layla, how are you? You’ve not been replying my call or text…”
“Yeah, I wasn’t with my phone all through yesterday, I’m just picking it up now and I called you after seeing your calls”
“Oh, cool. I hope you’re good”
“I am, you?” Layla asked, even if Dan had said what happened yesterday shouldn’t affect their relationship, she could feel the strain that was never there between them as they talked on the phone.
“I have to resume work now, talk to you later”
“Okay, bye”
She dropped her phone back in her bag and proceeded to wash her hands.
Aria thought Layla looked different and even acted differently.
“Layla” She called.
“Huh” Layla said, turning her back to Aria so she could help her tie the apron.
“Is there anything going on with you, like…are you really really okay? You can tell me anything Layla, anything” Aria said and Layla swallowed hard, glad Aria couldn’t see her face.
“There’s nothing Aria, I’m perfectly fine, it’s just…stress” Layla turned to face her after making sure her face will not give away anything.
“Are you sure?” Aria asked, looking like she didn’t really believe Layla.
“Of course, C’mon it’s nothing Aria. Believe me.” Layla smiled.
Aria still looked to be doubting.
“You know I studied real hard for the exam, I guess that’s what is telling on my health now” Layla added.
Aria nodded. “Just know I’m always here if you need me okay?”
“Sure”
“I guess Phil won’t be coming”
“Yeah, and we’ll be locking up by 4pm. Phil’s order”
“Really?”
“Yeah, She said we needed to bake together”
“Wow, sounds great”
Layla nodded.
They both started working and chatting at the same time.
**
“You mean she said no?” Fel asked Dan in surprise, she was sitting in his room with Rylan, they had to come here for the feedback when they didn’t hear anything from Dan yesterday.
“She didn’t have to say no, I wasn’t expecting yes either though. I already told you both she likes someone else.” Dan said.
“No, that’s not possible” Fel shook her head.
“Yeah, it’s not” Rylan agreed and Dan sigh.
“I only approached her to tell her about my feelings, I didn’t expect anything else”
“I wonder what went wrong, you’re the one Layla likes, I’m quite sure” Fel said.
“Just stop saying that already, I’m tired of hearing it!” Dan groaned.
“But it’s true” Rylan said.
“Whatever… anyway, I’ve told her how I feel and that’s it. I won’t lie it hurts, I badly want us to be together but there’s nothing I can do” Dan said, solemn.
“I’m really sorry about that Dan” Fel said, giving him a hug.
“Yeah buddy, you’ll be fine” Rylan said.
“Thanks guys” Dan gave them a small smile…
“Let’s play some games” Rylan suggested, hoping to lighten Dan’s mood.
“I’m out, I’ll just go join Anne in her room” Fel said, getting up.
“Well…I never said you could join us” Rylan pressed his lips together.
“Oh” Fel glared at him and deliberately stepped hard on his feet as she walked to the door.
“Ouch” Rylan groaned painfully, hugging his legs to his chest.
“Are your legs made of steel!!” He yelled after her.
“Well… You shouldn’t have shunned her, let me go get you a soothing balm, your feet must be on fire” Dan said, grinning.
“This must be so funny to you” Rylan glared at him.
“Not really…and you should hurry in telling her how you feel, you know I already done my part, you should also keep to your words”
“What! I’m never going to tell her how I feel.” Rylan said, rubbing his feet, his face masked with pain.
“I think her legs are really made of steel, look how bitter your face is. Sorry buddy, let me quickly go fetch the balm” Dan said, still grinning.
“I’ve always known you both hate me!” Rylan yelled after Dan who chuckled.
***
“Layla, do you really not like Dan?” Fel asked her.
Fel had come in almost immediately they were done for the day. Aria left already.
Layla stared at her without saying anything.
“C’mon Layla…I know you like him, even if you’ve never admitted it. I know you do so what’s the reason you do not want to date him?” Fel asked.
Layla sigh.
“I’m not here to make you feel bad or blame you for not accepting Dan’s feelings…I’m only here because I’m curious. Or, have I been mistaken all along, do you really not like him?” Fel asked.
“I do like Dan” Layla finally said.
“Exactly! I knew it. So there’s a reason right?” Fel asked and Layla nodded.
“And you don’t want to talk about it?” Fel asked.
“Yes Fel, at least not now”
“That’s fine, I’m always available whenever you need someone to talk to okay?”
“Okay Fel” Layla smiled.
“Now, Let’s lock up.. Phil must be expecting you at home already.” Fel said and they both stood.
“When is Aunt Esther coming?” Fel asked.
“I think next week but I’m going to call her tonight to confirm” Layla said.
“Gosh I can’t wait! Wow” Fel seemed really excited and Layla chuckled. She doesn’t know who’s more excited about Aunt Esther’s coming between Anne and Fel.
“I just hope our school practical doesn’t fall on the day Aunt Esther would be coming, I really wish to go with you guys to welcome her” Fel said.
“I hope so too”
“I’m going to be coming to your house every single day after Aunty Esther arrives” Fel said.
Layla laughed. “Of course you’re welcome, I’m so sure she’ll equally be glad to have you guys around”
Aunty Esther knew all of her friends, they’ve all been on a video call with her multiple times and She loves them. She can’t wait to meet them just exactly how they can’t wait to meet her either.
“I’ll be leaving now” Fel kissed Layla’s cheeks after she locked up.
“Okay Fel, see ya” Layla waved at her and smiled when Fel blew her multiple kisses.
***
“Aunty Esther” Layla said excitedly, placing her phone on her dressing table, she happily waved at her Aunt. It was a video call.
“Moremi, how are you?” Aunt Esther asked.
“I’m fine, I actually planned to call you yesterday but it skipped my mind and I remembered this morning so I planned to call you after I’m done with my morning chores ” Layla said.
“Really? Well..I guess I beat you to it” She chuckled.
“Yeah, right” Layla smiled.
“You look kind of pale, are you okay?” Aunt Esther asked worriedly.
“I’m fine, I studied real hard for the exam and that’s what is telling on me” Layla lied, she wonder how long she’s going to keep lying to everyone.
“Oh, make sure to take a lot of rest now that your exam is over and also make sure to eat good okay?”
“Okay Aunt”
“And … We’ll be coming next week. We already got our tickets”
“Yes! I was about calling to confirm that. I can’t wait to see you guys” Layla grinned happily.
“Same here, I really can not wait. David has been on my neck that he wants to see you. If it’s left to him, we would have been there right after he finished his exam” Aunt Esther said.
Layla laughed. “Where is he?”
“He’s playing outside o and I knew this was the right time to call you.”
“Oh, you don’t want him to know when you’ll be coming?”
“Yeah, it is meant to be a surprise, I didn’t make him see the dates on the tickets”
“He would be so excited..” Layla smiled, amused.
“Exactly”
“And I really wish to speak to him, I promise I’m not gonna spill the beans” Layla said.
“Don’t worry, when he comes in… I’ll give him my phone to call you and then you both can talk to any length you want. If I should call him to come in now, I should just forget about relaxing for the rest of today”
“Oh fine, just make sure to put him on the phone when he comes in”
“I will, I promise”
“How is your husband?”
“You’re not trying to pronounce his name today?” Aunt Esther laughed.
“C’mon” Layla pouted. “You should actually teach me the language when you come over”
“Of course I’m going to, but you’re only going to learn the basics, there’s no how you can learn it all in just a week. We’ll be spending a week there, I wish we can spend more time but I don’t want to inconvenient your Aunt and you know I also have a business I’m running here, it won’t be okay to leave it unattended to for long”
“Oh, that’s fine. I understand” Layla said.
Phil had also said she’s only going to accommodate them for a week but Layla had planned to persuade Phil if Aunt Esther wanted to stay longer than that but it turns out both of her aunt are in sync.
“I know it’s a short time but we’ll try to make the best of it” Layla said.
“Great” Aunt Esther smiled.
“Ah…God, this boy is coming inside already” Aunt Esther sigh.
“Mummy, I want to drink water” Layla heard David said and she chuckled.
“Goan take it from the fridge and make sure you don’t spill it”
“Okay Mum”
“He’s yet to know I’m on the phone with you or he would have jumped over here” Aunt Esther said to Layla .
“Mummy when are we going to America? You said we will go and visit Aunty Moremi when I’m done with my exam and we’ve not gone, are we not going again?” David asked his Mum with your sour face.
“Put him on the phone please” Layla smiled.
“Guess who I’m talking to?” Aunt Esther asked David, smiling.
“Who?” He asked as he walked closer to her.
“Aunty Moremi” He guessed even before seeing the screen and his face lit up when his Mum nodded.
“Aunty Moremi” David screamed happily and Layla laughed.
“Oya take, go and talk to her outside, I want to sleep” Aunt Esther said, handing her phone to David who rushed outside in excitement.
“David don’t break my phone o” His mum shouted after him.
“All of you comman see my Aunty, she’s Oyinbo!” David said excitedly to his friends and they all rushed over.
Layla laughed after seeing little heads pop into the screen and they all looked surprised and amused to see her.
She waved at them, smiling. All of them kept muttering ‘Oyinbo’ and of course Layla knew it meant a white person, they looked so excited to see her and they were all waving happily and telling her how beautiful she is, some of them were even telling her their names, she felt really touched and she wished she could meet them in person and hug them one after the other, knowing how much it will mean to them.
“Dave, tell your friends to tell me their names one after the other” Layla said.
“Oya, you people should line up, you’ll tell her your name one by one” David said, arranging them in a line.
Layla chuckled softly.
“Amara, you go first” David said, bringing Amara closer to the phone.
Amara looked really excited as her face popped on the screen, she’s such a cute girl, her smile was so beautiful even though she was missing a front tooth.
“Hi, my name is Amarachi Okezie ” She said shyly.
“Amarachi, how are you?” Layla smiled, she’s a bit surprised she didn’t find it hard to pronounce the name and she felt so proud of herself.
“Everybody, she called my name! Oyinbo called my name” Amarachi screamed happily to her friends and Layla didn’t know when she started laughing.
……………………….
HER LAST WISH Episode 58 by Azeemah Salami
Layla was all smiles as she walked back to the living room to continue her chores.
She felt surprisingly good, chatting with those cute kids already made her morning.
“When is your Aunt and her kid coming?” Phil asked.
“Next week Monday…I was about telling you actually”
“Okay” Phil turned back to the TV.
Layla continued her chores .
***
“Wow, really?” Aria’s face lit up.
On getting to the Cafe, Layla had told Aria that Aunt Esther and David would be coming by next week Monday and she seemed excited. Her friends had been so excited also when sent the text in their group chat.
Although Fel and Rylan were quite sad they wouldn’t be able to go with them to pick Aunt Esther and David at the Airport. Yeah, their school practical is on the same day.
“Yes” Layla smiled.
“I can’t wait to meet her, she seems like a cool person” Aria said.
Although Aunt Esther and Aria had only been on the phone once and that was when Aunt Esther called while they were working in the Cafe and Layla thought it’d be nice to introduce them to each other.
“She really is, I can’t wait to see in her in person, gosh, it’s been years” Layla smiled.
“I know right, you’ve missed her so much” Aria said.
“How long will she be spending?”
“Just a week. Aria…I might not come regularly for the morning shift once she’s here, you know she’s only going to be spending a week and I want to spend a good amount of time with her before she leaves because I do not know when we’ll see each other again” Layla said and swallowed hard knowing that might probably be the last time they would spend with each other.
“Oh of course you should do that. And you shouldn’t feel bad about it… after all I own the morning shift, you only come to assist me. You really need to spend a lot of time with them because it’s been years since you last seen each other and also she’s going to be spending a short period of time now that she’s finally visiting.”
“Thanks for understanding, Aria” Layla smiled.
“C’mon”
“How’s Jane doing?”
“Great, even bonding more with her father” Aria frowned with jealousy and Layla laughed.
“I’m sure your next kid is going to bond with you more”
“I hope so, I’m not even going to allow Dave hold the baby for too long, he seems to have magical hands” Aria said.
Layla laughed. “Really? He is going to find this funny”
“I bet”
“Jane might actually bond more with you once she starts growing older, just wait”
“I hope so” Aria said.
Layla put on her apron after washing her hands, she was packing her hair into the hair cover when Aria said “Dan is here”
She couldn’t tell why her heart skipped a beat, she raised her head and watched him approach, her heart hammering against her chest.
It seems her heart now react more to Dan’s presence since he told her about his feelings.
“Hi Aria” He smiled.
“Dan, how are you? It’s been a hot minute since I saw you” Aria said, smiling.
“Yeah right, the exam caused that, you’ll be seeing more of me now that we’re done”
“I really hope so, how’s Anne?” Aria asked.
“She’s doing great”
“Right, say hi to her for me”
“Alright”
“Hey” He gave Layla a small wave.
“Hi” Layla said.
“I came to get coffee, I want one cappuccino and two macchiato” He said.
Layla sigh “Really?”
“Well…” Dan trailed off, rubbing his forehead nervously, he finally sigh.
“At least that’s excuse I used to leave the house” He said.
“You said our relationship shouldn’t be affected after what happened and you aren’t even making the move to make sure there’s no strain in our relationship” Layla said.
“Well…I thought you wouldn’t be free around me anymore and I didn’t want to force you or push anything. I thought I’d wait patiently till everything get back to normal, till you feel as free as you were with me”
“You came to dumb conclusions on your own” Layla said.
“You gave room for that. You won’t even chat with me like you normally do and you take hours to reply to my texts, that didn’t happen before I… ” Dan sigh to complete his words.
Aria quietly moved to the other side of the counter, although they both had seem not to care she was there but she knew she had to move.
“Okay, I’m sorry and I admit that things have gotten strained between us but I couldn’t help it, it’s almost impossible to continue chatting with you like nothing happened.. I didn’t find it easy to do that and I don’t want to pretend that I’m cool and not moved with what happened, it was quite surprising..it totally took me off guard and I needed time to come to terms with it” Layla explained.
“I know and that’s the reason I do not want to push you, I knew you needed time but I was really missing how we were before I told you about my feelings and I… started regretting why I told you in the first place” Dan admitted.
“You shouldn’t regret doing that, it was a very brave move Dan and admirable. Most people do not mind keeping the feelings to themselves forever” She said, indirectly referring to herself.
Dan smiled…”I’m not brave either and I was ready to keep my feelings to myself forever but for some reasons, I ended up spilling it”
“I..I still find this hard to believe. How come I didn’t know you like me, you never really gave hints” Layla said.
“I did, multiple times but because you think of me as nothing but a friend, you didn’t notice it”
“Maybe I did but waved it off because I never thought you would like me, it never crossed my mind for once that you’d develop feelings for me”
“I know right”
“Talking about this with you..it means I’ve finally come to terms with it. I do not like the way things are going between us, we need to make sure we return back to how we used to be. I missed that”
“I feel the same way. I miss you Layla”
“I miss you also”
“Let’s just forget that ever happened, let’s… move on.”
“Will you be fine…?” Layla asked, feeling quite sorry for him.
“Of course, I should be”
“I’m so sorry Dan” Layla said and he groaned.
“Really? There’s nothing to be sorry for! Gosh, Layla!”
“But I feel bad!”
“I’m sorry for making you feel bad but you need to stop apologizing for something that is not your fault. C’mon” He scolded mildly.
She almost told him he can’t understand but that’s gonna brew more questions and she doesn’t want that so she nodded instead.
“So what’s the gist about Rylan. He likes Fel right?” She asked.
“Yeah he does! And he said he was gonna approach her after I… tell you about my feelings but Fel stepping on his toes changed everything, he said he’s never going to tell her how he feels” Dan said and they chuckled.
“It must have been so painful” Layla giggled.
“It really was, he was limping until he went home”
“Gosh, he’s really never going to tell her how he feels ” Layla laughed.
“I bet”
“And Fel said she likes him also but she’s really doubting it, she said it’s a temporary thing and it’s gonna clear off soon, she’s yet to come to terms with the fact that she has feelings for no other person but the troublesome Rylan”
“I understand her. It’s kinda complicated to come to terms with”
“Exactly, the fact that the both of them never even expected it made it harder to accept. I also never thought it could happen, it seemed impossible”
“Yeah, I don’t think anything is really impossible anymore, the impossible keeps becoming possible.”
“Exactly. I hope Rylan changes his mind soon. Although Fel might still be feeling uncertain but I’m pretty sure she is not going to reject his feelings. The only certainty she needs now is Rylan coming to her”
~~
They both talked for a while, switching between different topics and Dan was finally ready to leave.
He said bye to both Aria and Layla…
“Hey, didn’t you use coming to get coffee as an excuse to come here and now you’re going to leave empty-handed” Layla chuckled.
“Shit” Dan turned back. “It totally skipped my mind, you actually made me forget” He frowned playfully.
“And I also reminded you” She winked and his heart danced.
“Hold on, it’s going to be ready in a minute” She said and started preparing the coffee.
Dan watched her as she did and he realised he’s such a big fool to have even thought telling Layla about his feelings is going to put an end to it.
*
~~Sunday~~
*
“Hold the other end” Layla said to Fel, they were both preparing the room Aunt Esther and David are going to be staying in.
Dan and Rylan were in the kitchen, checking on the pies they were baking.
She had invited them over, it’s been a while since they all spent time together.
They had all been baking together and once the pies were in the oven, Layla decided to prepare the room before the pies get ready and Fel offered to help.
After they were done making the bed, they moved to the other parts of the room .
“There’s something about making the bed first, it just makes every other thing easy” Fel said.
“I know right” Layla smiled.
“The next thing I do right after saying my morning prayers is making my bed, just seeing my bed made up, makes my morning”
“Most times, I actually get ready before thinking of making my bed but you’re actually right, seeing the bed made up is nice”
“Of course, and I think we should have a sleepover soon. What do you think?”
“That’ll be nice” Layla smiled, she’s open to all kinds of fun with her friends, she’s going to make sure to have the best time ever with them.
“Guys, The pies are burnt and Rylan made it happen!” Dan said, walking into the room with Rylan.
“No, you did. You made us forget all about the pies in the oven with your non-stop talk!” Rylan yelled
“You asked for it! You told me to keep on talking, you made us forget pies were baking!” Dan yelled back.
“You did! Shut up!” Rylan said, and they both turned to Fel and Layla.
“Oh My God! How could you both burn the pies! While you were right there in the kitchen!” Fel yelled.
“You both are so annoying” Layla groaned. “We made you stay there just so the pies won’t get burnt and now it’s burnt, it’s of no use for you guys to have stayed there in the first place ”
“But it’s Rylan’s fault!” Dan said.
“You made it happen!” Rylan shouted at him.
“You both, move out of the way. Layla let’s go make another and I swear you both are not going to have as much as a taste” Fel said, looking pissed.
“You know what? Why don’t you guys continue preparing the room while we go make another pies and perhaps we can consider giving you at least a piece of pie to share between each other” Layla said before walking out of the room with Fel.
They ignored the argument that continued between Dan and Rylan and then headed to the kitchen.
“Oh My God! These guys burnt these poor pies to scrap!” Fel groaned.
“Wow” Layla sigh.
“It was a bad decision to ask them to look after it”
“A very bad decision”
***
“Are you nervous?” Dan asked Layla, he was driving to the airport with her to pick up Aunt Esther and David.
“I’m just so happy” Layla said, grinning so hard.
Dan smiled.
Aunt Esther had called seconds ago. She’s in Las Vegas!
And they are so excited to be going to her.
Fel and Rylan will head straight to Layla’s house after they were done with their school practical. Prestige High School hosts practicals even after exam and it’s usually fun actually and they always looked forward to it but Fel and Rylan hadn’t looked forward to this particular one because it’s gonna make them miss welcoming Aunt Esther.
And Anne…she couldn’t come because she was busy baking pies for Aunt Esther, she refused to do it yesterday because she wants it fresh and tasty for her and her son.
Dan parked into the Airport parking lot and Layla was jumping out of the car the next minute.
He turned off the ignition and stepped out of the car, he had to hurry to meet up with her as she was almost running.
They both headed to the airport terminal.
And there they saw Layla’s Aunt and her child.
Dan thought Layla stopped to catch her breath but with the way she screamed, it seems she had only stopped to gather every strength left in her just so she could scream.
Almost everyone’s attention was on them as they hugged each other tightly, both crying.
Dan smiled, feeling a bit emotional as he watched them.
God … Aunt Esther looked even finer in person, her skin so rich in dark and flawless and one didn’t have to be told to know where Layla got her banging body from.
David looked cute as well, his smile so broad as he jumped around them. He looked really excited as he kept trying to get in between Layla and his Mum, whining that he wants to hug Layla also.
Just when the hug seems to be taking forever, they finally disengaged, wiping their tears and laughing at the same time.
Dan finally walked closer to them.
“OMG! Dan!” Aunt Esther smiled pulling him into a hug.
“It’s so good to finally meet you” Dan smiled.
“Same here dear, you look so good. Wow, even better in person” Aunt Esther complimented.
“I would say the same for you” He said, now grinning.
“Thank you, I’m so happy right now. I’m glad to be here honestly. Come here” Aunt Esther hugged him again, Dan couldn’t help but keep smiling.
“It’s feels so good… I can’t believe I finally got to meet you, we’ve been waiting all along and finally you’re here. You’re welcome Aunt Esther and we’ll make sure you have the best time here”
“Aww Thanks Dan. Trust me to also return the energy, there’ll be no dull moment”
“Gosh! We can’t wait!! And I hope you have enough Africa history to tell us ”
“Trust me, I know you guys love Africa history and if it’s possible to open my head, that is what’s stored there” Aunt Esther tapped her head dramatically and they both laughed.
Layla smiled as she moved closer to them with David, who wouldn’t let go of her even after minutes of chatting with him.
“Aunt Moremi, My friends said I should greet you. ” He said happily.
“Really? You should also say hi to them for me when you go back”
“Ah, Brother Dan” David released his hold on Layla and then rushed to hug Dan who chuckled as he bent to hug him back.
“David is so grown now, wow.” Layla said to Aunt Esther as Dan and David embraced.
“Just like how you’re now so grown also. Moremi you’re now taller than me o, and even so beautiful, I’m so happy and proud to see you all grown up” Aunt Esther said, holding Layla’s hands affectionately.
“Thank you, you look great also, far better than the last time you were here. Your beautiful dark skin has never looked more enthralling”
“Aww, thank you sweetheart. I miss you so much” Aunt Esther said.
They were both hugging each other again and Dan happily played with David who seem to be smart and fun.
~~
“Hello Philia, it’s good to finally meet you” Aunt Esther greeted while Layla stood by her side nervously.
“Hi” Phil replied curtly and Layla sigh.
Phil should never have said they could stay here if she was going to give them attitude!
Aunt Esther glanced at Layla. Layla knew Aunt Esther was smart enough to know Phil didn’t want them here.
“Good afternoon Aunty Philia” David prostrated excitedly.
“What’s that?” Phil asked, with a raised brow.
“That’s how older ones are greeted in our tribe” Aunt Esther cleared.
“Oh, Hi and you don’t have to call me ‘Aunty’, I don’t need that” Phil said.
“I’m sorry, that’s what he’s going to be calling you, I didn’t raise him up to call elderly ones by their name so it’ll be quite hard for him to adjust, we’re not going to be here for long, please make do with it for the time being” Aunt Esther said.
Phil shrugged and muttered “Welcome” before turning back to the TV.
“Come, I’ll take you to your room, you need to freshen up after that long ass flight” Layla said.
“Yeah, My bones seems to be even aching” Aunt Esther said as she and David and Dan walked behind Layla.
“I can imagine.” Dan said.
“Mummy, why is that Aunty frowning, her face look like shit” David whispered to his Mum.
“Shut up” Aunt Esther scolded and Dan who had overheard it started laughing.
………………….
ZEEMAH.
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