Sunshine Dollup XIV

The drive home was calm as the car was quiet giving me enough time to reflect on my day. I got to the gates and waited for the gates to open. Thankfully the parking spot where I always parked was still empty. Usually on Friday nights when I got back, I had to find somewhere else to park because it would have been taken over by some other car. Though no one was alloted a particular parking spot, the people who lived on my flat were conservative when it came to parking their cars. Everyone pretty much maintained the same spot till once a while when things changed. Friday nights were such days. Today, my spot was free. I parked the car and picked up my handbag. 

I saw my neighbours on the first floor at their balcony. The kids were busy waving at me. I waved them back too. I had met them a couple of times and I liked them already. I climbed up the staircase leading to my apartment. I searched for my keys and unlocked the door. I felt a sense of peace once I got inside.

Walking straight to my bedroom, I decided to take a shower. I quickly undressed and went straight into the shower.  I was enjoy the way the water cascaded my skin and stayed in the shower longer than usual. When I stayed in the shower longer, it was for two reasons.  To enjoy how the water cascaded down my skin or to cry. In the shower when I cried,  the water wiped my tears away automatically.  This evening I did not have time to cry. I was exhausted and needed a long shower just to pamper me . If I did not have a date, I would have soaked myself in the bathtub and read a good book.

I was rudely interupted by the sound of the door bell. Who could it be I wondered. It can't be Claude.  It was not yet time for our date. I don't think it was Aya either. She had called to say she would soon be at my place but when Aya called you in the evenings to say she would soon be at your place, it meant just one thing. If you and her did not have anywhere going, then it was just a formality to let you know she would definitely show up but not as soon as possible.

I quickly dried myself with a towel and looked through my closet to find something to wear.  I picked the first thing that I fixed my gaze on.  A  pink cotton  three quarter shorts and its matching top. I heard the doorbell ring a second time and then a third. Then I rushed out to get the main door.  I peeped through the pidgeon hole and saw someone dressed in grey suit.  The door bell rang a fourth time and I just unlocked it. I had the shock of my life.

I could not believe it or did not want to believe my eyes. I blinked a few times to be sure I was not in a state of dreaming.  He spoke up like he could read my mind. 'Hi Yella, surprised? ' I just stood there frozen. He was dressed in a grey trousers and a white long sleeved shirt. 'May I come in? Why are we still standing here?' Dennis said. I stepped aside to usher him in. Shutting the door  and locking it behind me. I looked at the time, it was past 7pm.

Dennis had found himself a seat and gotten himself comfortable in my sofa. Very usual of him.  'Aren't you offering me anything to drink?' I shook my head. 'This is not a bar, just to reiterate.' I answered him. 'What are you doing here by the way? I've been trying to reach you all day. I got back last night and thought I would surprise you. I see.' Was all I could manage to say. I still kept standing. Watching this slicker of a man in disbelief.  I could not believe Dennis had the guts to come to my house . Don't even know how he found this place because I had changed houses since the last time I saw him.

'What do you want? ' I asked him. He was beginning to irritate me. He stood up from the sofa and at this time, I wondered if I should be getting scared.

'You Ella.....' Dennis pushed me onto the sofa and pressed his lips against mine in a kiss. I clenched my teeth  refusing to open my mouth to kiss him back. With all the effort in the world I pushed him away. Yet he won't get off me. 'Leave me alone! Get off me' I yelled once he stopped kissing me. 'No baby. I missed. ' Jesus. I should never have opened the door. Regret began to fill me. Yella this is no time for regrets. This is the time to fight and get this bloke out of your  house. 

When you finally get the chance to  speak  with your crush  and you mess up but he still stays calm . Silly me! !  

Happy birthday EM xx

For  a friend  who has three girlfriends. Empowering you to stop breaking the hearts of the daughters of men. 

Answered Prayer

I remember how nine months ago you told me I was just going through another phase. I had forgotten how that felt till it happened again. I had vowed before then never to get that close again. You told me men will disappoint and to look up to God. You encouraged me to put it all behind me and that if it was not to be, God still had a beautiful way of compensating me.
I remember how you kept reiterating that it was never a loss for me but his. You prayed with me.  Encouraged me. Taught me life's lessons.  You said to slow down, heal and take my time because I'm in no competition with anyone.

You told me unforgiveness was not a fruit of the spirit and urged me to forgive the person who would not forgive me. I heeded and did all that you told me. Trust me, I never knew I could make it till now.

I took my time letting the whole world know I'm not letting  go; I'm not ready. You kept saying I will laugh again that in the rain, my tears would get kissed. I defied all the odds making sure I did not fall into another wrong hand. Yes men and women will disappoint you but a man after God's own heart would be conscious if he had to do that.

I have waited the most part of my adult life for this. I promise to take care of this one. Treasure, adore, respect, learn really hard on this one, serve and constantly remind  myself that I'm that peace away from the stress of the world ordained by God to be their peace.

I speak this language again.
God just wiped away my tears.
His prophecy for me has come to pass. God who watched the unforgiving heart of people just changed my name.
Whether you like me or not,
I just got a smiling contract.
I laughed all night on Saturday, even if tipsy or whatever and still laughing.

Thank you for being a real friend.
Trust me, this compensation is so huge made in heaven.
The prayer; a .....after God's own heart
........known by God and.....who will be a blessing to his generation.
Dreams come true even if they delay.
Thank you Lord for this gift.
My faith has found a resting place. 

This is for everyone who has had the same dream and been saying the same prayer for years.  I say hold on to your dream. Keep working at it. Keep saying the same prayer. God is listening. Your prayer will be answered soon. He makes all things beautiful in his own time. Laughing contract. ....Thanks Natalie. God bless my baby; answered prayer.

Photo credit: VYK

There Would Never Be Another Time

A few months ago, I decided never to go all out for people again.  I told myself, I would only like and love those who love me. I had gotten to a point where I felt there was no need to tolerate people I could not tolerate.

I got home this evening from church and Alice told me  I was going to be embarassed after hearing what she had to tell me. Then, she broke the news to me. My girlfriend had passed away. I broke down in tears asking God for forgiveness. Sometime ago, my friend sent  a text asking me to buy her airtime.  I bought the Vodafone airtime and sent it to her, awaiting her text acknowledging receipt. It never came. I had to be the one to call her wanting to find out. I have sent people airtime who failed to acknowledge receipt.  Yet we have continued our friendship beautifully. Why was this such a big deal?

I told a friend and she reiterated the fact that she did not like bush people who could not say a simple thank you. My sister and I discussed this as well and then I thought I would ignore her. Awaiting a time she would request for airtime from me again. Unfortunately, there would never be such a time again. Thus Alice's comment.

I was beginning to wonder why  some people never said thank you. Why some people pester you so much for a favour, yet never bother to say thank you when its done.

Tonight,  I was rude to someone who didn't deserve it at all. Sincerely he had done nothing to me and had been extremely nice. I was rude because of what people around would say. I'm thinking, if something happened to this person, I would feel super bad like I'm feeling shitty tonight about my friend's death.

Sometimes, we treat people based on emotions.  At other times,  based on our previous experiences. Why couldn't I just overlook the fault of my friend?  Did I have to wait till now to cry and beg God for forgiveness?  What happened to celebrating people?  Why did I have to be rude to someone's son based on what people had said? Why can't we just love people blindly and unconditionally? Why can't we forgive and move on?

Its depressing to know that I could not check on my friend till she passed away. I'm sure I would have been  the first person she would have  told when she fell ill suddenly. I'm just thinking there would never be another time.   I just learned my lesson but the very hard way. I won't ever be rude and  treat people badly just because someone mistreated me. God help me.

For all the times we spent together.
For the laughter and the joy ...
I know you so wanted this dream to come true badly
I'm sorry for what happened
I wish you were still here so I could
just apologise for ignoring you .
I wish you were here so
I would buy you more airtime
I miss you sister.
Rest well my friend.

Making lots of mistakes. Shows how devastated I am.

Sunshine Dollup XIII

Yella
'Miss Erskine? ' I looked up from my computer to see Valerie. 'Valerie?' Valerie was one of my students at the University where I tutored. 'Come in please' showing her to one of the seats infront of my desk in my glass box office.

Valerie wore a pair of blue skinny jeans wirh a white turtle neck and a deeper shade of blue blazer.
She was one of the few girls in my class who wore their hair quite short and curled. 'Good afternoon Miss Erskine. How are you Valerie?  I'm well thank you. Its quite a surprise to see you here Valerie. Yes Miss Erskine.  I came around town and needed to use the bank. I remembered you worked here and just decided to try my luck.  Wow! I'm so honoured to have you visit. Its so thoughtful of you Valerie.'

Valerie smiled coyly at me revealing a white set of teeth. I was about to phone my next office to find out if  any of the girls there could come over. I needed to get Valerie some snacks.  Just then, I remembered I still had my snack from lunchtime.  Philimon, my colleague had brought it earlier but I had not touched it at all. I offered it to Valerie and she gladly took it. I noticed the pastries were quite cold and went with her to the kitchen to have it microwaved. We both got  back to my office and as she ate, I checked my phone.

I had not checked my phone all day. Lets just say I forgot to do so. I saw missed calls from my sisters.  Aya and  Bambi. Mummy had called me too. I opened my whatsapp messages to see messages from Mummy telling me she was going out of town and would be back on Tuesday. The Unique women at church,  a group mummy belonged to were embarking on a prayer retreat. 'Ella please let Aya stay at your end till I get back.  Kisses' her last text read. 'I'm sorry Mummy,  just saw your texts, I've been busy all day. Okay.  Will be glad to have Aya over.  Have a safe journey.  Kisses. '

Bambi had texted to tell me she was travelling to   Helsinki  with a friend  for a week.   She promised to get in touch as soon as she got settled. I smiled reading her text. I missed talking to Bambi. It had been days since we had a real chat.

Claude had texted me twice. In the morning and at noon. Wow. I texted him back to let him know I was fine. So thoughtful of him but I'm not used to having a guy check on me. I haven't gotten that in a while. Nothing motivates me to check my personal phone often. Claude, he's been doing that all week and sometimes I don't even reply. I would explain later tonight when I see him.

'What are you doing this weekend Valerie? Miss Erskine,  there's this play on campus I would love to go and watch tonight. What time is it? It starts at 8pm. Ok. Tomorrow morning I have a group discussion and then I would spend the rest of my weekend getting ready for midsemester exams. Oh ok. That means you are staying in school this weekend? Yes please.' I liked this girl. She had a beautiful smile.  Honestly I did not know why she had passed by my office but I was glad to have her. I made her wait till 6.40.  Just so I could drop her off at a vantage point where she could pick a taxi back to school.

Usually,  on Friday nights I closed late but today, I hardly got out of my seat just so I would complete my work early enough to  get home and be ready for my date with Claude. I packed up and took my handbag ready to go. Valerie walked beside me  whilst I went to Philimon's office. He was surprised to see me leave early. 'Ella, you are leaving quite early. Yes Philimon,  I'm done for the week. ' I said smiling at him. He smiled back. 'Good for you.  Yeah..thanks for the snack. You are most welcome Ella. I'll see you on monday. Have a nice weekend.  Thanks and you too.' I said,  waving at him.

I waved a few more people on my way to the main exit   with Valerie.  When we got to my car, whilst trying to put my bag down on the floor behind my seat, I felt my phone vibrate. I took the bag back and reached for the phone. Aya was calling. 'Hello little sis. Hello Ella. You okay? Yes I'm good and you? I'm fine, just closed from work. Okay, just calling to let you know I'll be at your end soon.  Okay, see you there . Byee. Byee.

When we got to the interior part of town,  I pulled over so Valerie could get a taxi to school. I reached for my handbag which was on the car floor behind the drivers seat. I was not really sure what the purpose of the visit was but I wanted to give Valerie some money to buy her ticket for the play and for any other thing she might need. I searched for my purse and handed her  a few notes. 'Thank you Miss Erskine. You're welcome love. Text me when you get to school. Will do that.' I hugged her and watched as she opened the passenger door to leave. I waited for her to get a taxi before I moved the car to hit the highway home.















So after several months, Kwabena arrives  in Ghana.Back home in the cargo compartment not like everyone.  What can I say? Still, welcome home although, you lay still. I almost gave up on you. 

  I haven't written anything new this week.  Every free time I get, I spend on Criminal case, God bless whoever came up with it. Just discovered indian novels on wattpad , I'm addicted. Z world; lots of Indian movies......maybe I'll marry an Indian...lol. No time to write but last night..... ... I'm going to share my thoughts with you soon. You can't miss  my next post. ....

Sunshine Dollup XII

Claude

After my dinner date with the doll on Monday night,  I went to bed dreaming about the doll. I could still smell her perfume. She looked pretty when she smiled and there was this look in her eyes. She looked innocent and helpless sort of. She looked like she needed someone to take care of her. A good man. I don't think she had a boyfriend.  Well if she did, then she was good at hiding it. If she had a boyfriend, why would she always be hanging out with her female friends every Friday night?

Is it that her boyfriend never spent Friday nights with her? Or Friday nights were for the girls? Well, she has not been cooperative  so far. She took time to text back. She probably is seeing someone.  She doesn't act like she's available. I really would want to get to know her some more. I would be disappointed if she did not give me a chance to get to know her some more. I'm wondering how old she is. Can't even tell. She looks quite young though.  She could almost be  in her  mid twenties but realistically,  she could be older. I'm assuming she finished Uni at twenty two. Probably worked for a year and went on to do her MBA Law. That did not take less than four years. She's probably been working for two three years. Oh well, I  can't just assume that though. Anyways,  I don't care how old she is. I still want to get to know her some more.

My week was uneventful.  I spent my time getting ready to attend my conference in Mumbai. I got called up twice by a Senior Doctor to go to his private clinic when there was a shortage of doctors because a female staff doctor had  been involved in a fatal car accident which rendered her incapable of moving both legs temporarily. So I still worked despite my leave.  I called the doll on Tuesday morning to check on her but she did not pick up. I sent a text and she replied at night.  It was a bit disappointing but I was glad she eventually texted back.

I did not bother to reach her on Wednesday. I don't like how she takes forever to get back to me. By Thursday,  no matter how hard I tried, I ended up missing her all day. I finally texted her. 'Hi Ella.
Hope your day is going well
X.'
She finally replied after six hours.
'Hiii
Yes it was good.
Hope you had a good one too.'
She did not return my hug but did reply.
'Yes I did.
Thanks.
I'm seeing you tomorrow night
Will pick you up at 8pm. Lol.'
She texted back immediately. 
'Lol
Okay
8.30 pm please....'
I laughed at her reply and texted her back.
'Sure
If it makes you happy
Lol
Will see you at 8.30 pm.'

'Thanks Claude
See you tomorrow
Sleep well. '

I replied saying goodnight.

On Friday I woke up early to pack for my trip and work out at the gym. I sent Ella a text to check on her when I was about to leave the gym. I went to have breakfast at Dillys and ended up sitting there till mid day. I got a text from Audrey.
'Hi Claude
Hope you are fine
Can we hang out at the beach on Sunday afternoon?  I'll tell Ella to come along too.'
'I'm sorry Audrey
Can't make it because I'm going out of town tomorrow.
Will be back soon. '

'Ohhhh
Poor you
You missed the chance to see Ella again
Lol'

'Gotcha :)
Too bad for me
Lol
Lets do this when I come back please. '

'Hahahah
Sure
When you get back then
Can see someone likes my friend. '

'Yes I do
Won't deny that.
Very much :) '

'Lol
I know right
Good luck Claude'

'Lol
Do I say thanks?
Sounds ironic. '

'No
I hope she likes you too.'

Sunshine Dollup XI

I turned off the lights in the library to go to my room whilst still on the phone with Claude. 'What are you doing now?' He asked. I was setting my mid semester exam questions.  I just turned off the lights in the library to go to my room.' Ok. Are you done?  Yes I am. How many questions were they if I may ask. Three in all. You answer two. Oh I see. That was fast.'

'I know right.' Claude giggled.  I went to lie on the bed turning on my Tv to watch Al Jazeera. When are you leaving town? I asked Claude.  'Saturday. Ok. I'll be back in ten days.  Yes you mentioned that earlier.' I reminded him. 'What do you do on Friday nights?'  He asked. I paused for a moment before answering. 'Usually, I hang out with my friends, it depends though.  On what? I giggled. 'If they are available.  Ok. Are they always available?  Errrrmmmm, no. Are they going to be available this Friday?  I can't tell.' I said.

'Even if they are going to be available, can we have a drink together please?' Claude asked. Errmmmm. I thought about my answer carefully.  If the girls don't show up, I would go with Claude.  Well even if they do, I could still go with Claude,  I thought.  'Please say yes. Pleaseeeeee.' I smiled and said 'Yes. Thanks. You're welcome.  Can't wait till Friday night then. ' I laughed at his statement. Claude and I stayed a little longer on the phone before saying goodnight.

I drifted off to sleep by the time our conversation ended.  We had stayed on the phone for fifty minutes. This guy sounds cool.  By now I was really sleepy. These days,  I could barely stay up beyond 10 pm. I was surprised I had made it till such an hour. I did not have time to brood over singlehood or spinsterhood tonight. I drifted off to sleep.

Sunshine Dollup X

I checked my image for the final time in the guestroom mirror and rushed to get the door.  Oh my God, the guy looked so fine. 'Hi  Hi,I managed to say finally. Then he pulled me into a quick hug. Errrrmmmm what was that for. He smelled so good.  Oh wow, I loved that smell. I stood there looking silly I'm sure, before finally asking him inside. 'Would you come inside please. ' He just stepped inside and then I shut and locked the door gently behind him.

I led him to the sofa and asked him to feel at home. 'Can I offer you anything? ' 'Water please. ' I walked to the kitchen to get him a  bottle of water and  whilst he sipped on it, I rushed to get my purse. 'You look pretty' he said. Thanks. 'You look good too.' Thank you Ella. Ready?' Claude asked. I nodded.  As he stood up onto his feet. I picked the tray with the empty bottle of water and headed for the kitchen before returning to go with him.

He watched as I locked the door to my apartment and we both descended the stairs together.  Claude opened the passenger door for me to get seated, shut it and went to sit beside me in the drivers seat. 

We talked basically about my day on our way to Tangerine.  Claude waited to be aided by the security man who led him to his parking spot. 'Let me get the door please,' he said to me once  he parked the car. I waited as he walk to my side to hold out the door for me.

Inside tangerine, he pulled a seat for me to get seated before him. He gazed at my face and gave me a smile.  Dinner was great. I enjoyed every bit of my meal. I don't know who told Claude I was interested in knowing him because he kept telling me about himself. 'I had two brothers but lost one a few years ago.' 'I'm sorry to hear that. What happened to him?' 'He got drowned at the beach.' Oh. At this point I was stunned and lost for words.

I think Claude felt my uneasiness and quickly tried to dismiss my fears. He was two years older than I was and I have a younger brother. ' I nodded.  I grew up in Kenya but moved to Ghana after my brother passed away.' How old were you? I asked. 'Thirteen. ' Okay. Since then I've lived in Ghana.' He smiled. I smiled back. 

I watched him as he spoke.  Pink lips, white teeth.  Neatly trimmed side burns, formed into a beard and a moustache. He kept smiling whilst he talked. 'I'm going out of town for a conference.' 'Where are you going? ' 'India.' I nodded.  I'll leave on Saturday and will be back in Ten days. Ok..

I wondered why he bothered telling me all this. I just listened. He didn't bore me but I really did not get his reason for telling me all that. Claude promised not to keep me out for too long. He got me home at exactly ten. He walked me to my apartment when we got to my place and waited for me to get inside. 'It was nice hanging out with you Ella. Same here.' He pulled me into a hug before saying good night. 'Let me know when you get home please. I will.'

I sat behind my computer to set my mid semester exam questions.  I could only come up with three questions  and decided to ask students to answer two out of three questions.  Surprisingly,  I did that in thirty minutes.  My phone began to vibrate. When I checked who was calling,  it was Claude.  'Hello. Hello Ella. You okay?  Yes I'm fine. Are you home? I am. Thanks for having dinner with me. Thanks too.'

A lot has happened these few days.
Someone I adore broke my heart; she got called to glory.

In other news, it was a happy reunion  last Saturday when  my childhood friend; got a change of name. Dziedzorm walked down the aisle. For  Dziedzorm and Edem; grow old together....God bless your union. 

The Sex Thing

How do people misconduct themselves on social media and expect to be taken seriously? I have a friend who is constantly using nudes of girls as his display picture. The other day, another friend saw it, saved and sent it to me. I thought it was so unfair on his part. That same day, he sent me a text using that same display picture. Unfortunately, I just ignored him.

Lately, the trend has been that, he sends me one indecent picture or the other. Firstly, I am not your girlfriend.  Even if I am, you would need my approval to send me such pictures else you are harassing and disrespecting me, seriously.  Who says I want to see nudes of another girl? Is that supposed to be sending a message I'm not getting?

A few months ago, I was compelled to report a so called radio presenter to the police for adding me several times to a  porn viber group. Initially I deleted myself and blocked him. Apparently viber still allows people to add you blocked or not. In less than twenty four hours, he added me back  again. Trying to let me know I don't know what I want. I  had to bring in the police to prevent him from ever adding me to any group. Surprisingly, he still had the guts to call me again after eight months.

We live in a world where people will do anything to drag you into anything they believe in. It's not fair. If you ever try that with me, be sure I will call the police.

I will not deny that we can talk about sex as adults but let me remind you that, talking about it and doing it are completely different.  You don't use nudes of a girl whether showing her back or front as your display picture and expect any well meaning girl to take you seriously.  No. It is disrespect to womanhood.  No matter how you see it. There are other things you can display about a woman. Showing the world her nakedness will not earn you a spot in the life of every woman.

Are you a pervert? Do you have to show how sex hungry you are on social media? First thing that comes to mind when I see that, I would rather reserve my comments.

Recently, I was watching the  nominees to the Supreme Court. It brought to mind a tango post I put up. Nothing serious. It had been meant for a particular person yet it got exported to facebook and earned over one twenty comments and likes just because I dared to express my opinion. The insults were overwhelming.

A friend in the UK saw it and asked  me to remove the post. His reasons: one day, this post might be used against you. Don't think about today, think about the  future and your career tomorrow. I actually thought he was overreacting because for twenty minutes, it was all he spoke about. I finally removed the post. Your past can come back to haunt you.

I think we all need good friends. The ones who don't only support but also criticise you. The big brother and sister kind of friends as well.
Before you post stuff on social media, think twice. One day, you will be in a prominent position and some  girl from no where might  accuse you of rape. You will be placed in detention. Whilst trial is going on, you could be innocent but think about it this way, if character evidence comes into play, what evidence can be used against you? Can people begin to speak of your integrity that would depict you cannot commit the crime in question?

Or would it be an opportunity for those who have despised your attitude for years to come up and even say you always posted nudes of girls when you were younger and more, with enough proof? I hope that, the KKD saga taught you a few things because I'm wondering,  if someone had not accused him of rape earlier, would any other girl have had the courage to speak out? His arrest paved way for other girls to start telling their  stories too. Whether real or not.

Think about the future when putting up stuff on social media. Think about the consequences tomorrow.  I doubt your dream girl would even give you a chance because you are not only disgracing womanhood but also trying to let her know who you are even before you get a chance to be with her.

If you already have a girlfriend and yet choose to do that and she cannot tell you how unfair it is, then dude, I'm sorry. Temporary people never tell you when you are treading the wrong path. Afterall, you are replaceable. 

Sensuality and sexuality should be respected and private in a way. Unless you are on a platform that is dedicated solely to that. If it wasn't, we would all walk about naked and not in clothes. If you see it and you like it, what stops you from saving it and viewing it privately?  Perhaps printing it out and using it as a wall hang in your bedroom, bathroom, (you name it)  won't be bad. Does the whole world have to view something you find attractive? Are you a Pervert? I  don't care if you are black or white and if it's acceptable in your country or not.  You are still a man. As much as you are degrading women and disrespecting all of womanhood including your mum and sisters, I hope  it never comes back to haunt you.

Most absurd thing I have heard in ages; I'm twenty. ......hilarious. ....... ..Ohhhhh!
A toast to all men!

Sunshine Dollup IX

I did not have the chance to check my phone till I got to work. At the parking lot, I searched through my hand bag for my cell phone.  Aya had arrived at my place at a quarter to six. I had dropped her off at the Lanes to go to school.  I had ten missed calls and ten whatsapp chats.

I only checked for details when I was finally inside my office.  Two missed calls from Bambi, two from Aya, two from Audrey, two from Mummy and two from Claude.  How come? Which Claude?  I called eveyone back except Claude.  He had sent a text via whatsapp as well. He had sent it at 9:43pm yesterday.
  'Hey Ella
  Sure you're sleeping by now
Just wanted to let you know I'm home too.
It was nice hanging out with you.
Good night. '

Oh well. Weird boy. Who says I'm interested in knowing if you got home or not. My day was uneventful. I had skipped breakfast and lunch. I didn't feel like eating.

Claude
I had taken a shower as soon as I got home last night. I tried calling the doll but she didn't pick up. She must have gone to sleep. I wonder how she looked in her sleep. Like a doll, I'm sure. Silly me. I decided to text her. At least she could read it when she woke up.

I played Fifa 2014 and went to sleep looking forward to tomorrow evening. 
I waited all day for the doll to call back but she did not. She didn't text back either. Oh yeah. Why didn't she ever call or text back.  That meant we didn't have a date tonight., I'm sure. All day I kept checking my phone for her call or text but it never came.  When it was almost 6pm, I summed up courage and called her. She did not pick up. I decided to text her.
'Hi Ella,
You okay?
I'm still looking forward to having dinner with you tonight.
Please text back. '

It  took fifteen minutes to get a reply from the doll.
'
Hiiiii
I'm okay
Thanks
Ok.
Can we make it tomorrow? '

I decided to call her. Fortunately, she picked up. 'Hello.' Oh shit. Did I dial the wrong number or something.  ' Hello Ella?' 'Claude...?'  'How are you? ' I'm okay, thanks and you?' I'm well. You haven't closed yet?  'I just did. Ok. Are you going to be busy tonight? Not really, I just thought I would go to bed early tonight.  Well, I promise you, I won't take so much of your time. Dinner will be brief.' There was silence at her end. Then she finally spoke up. 'Okay Claude.' I'll be at your place in forty minutes. Is that okay? Yes, thats fine. See you soon Ella. Sure. Byeee. Bye.

Well the doll finally agreed to have dinner with me. I had to send a few emails, I did that whilst waiting for the forty minutes to elapse. Hoping the doll would have enough time to get home, freshen up if she wanted to and be ready to have dinner with me. I left home fifteen minutes after talking to her. I listened to the drive time show on  radio whilst I drove to her place. 

Yella
I got home to a quiet house as always.  My house was as dead as a graveyard. I quickly went to take a shower which didn't last more than four minutes I'm sure. I wiped my satiny skin dry with a towel and smoothed on some body lotion.
I opened the closet in my room to find something to wear. I wanted to wear a short dress. My eyes fell on one. A blue and white turtle neck dress. It was just above my knee and had jewels stuck around the neckline. I decided on small diamond stud earrings to match the diamond jewels on the blue turtle neckline.  I decided not to wear make up. I just put on some dark red lipstick and a plain lip gloss over it. I put on some eyeshadow and a little blush.

I gazed in the mirror and I looked fine as always.  I searched for my phone then, I remembered I had not even taken it out of my handbag from work. I walked to the guest room to find it. Taking out my phone, there was no missed call from Claude.

I looked through my shoes and wanted to wear flats but remembered Claude was so tall. I smiled and decided on a black and white   open toe wedge with a black clutch. Just then, I heard the sound of the door bell.

Sunshine Dollup VIII

Claude
The ride to down West took quite a while. There was a heavy downpour. Surprisingly, we did not see that coming until we were about to leave the beach.

I had to take the doll to her house. When we arrived at the side of town where she lived, the rains were quite heavy.
It poured down with all intensity. Guiding me to her house, I began to wonder how the doll would make it through the rain to her apartment once we arrived at the Villagio de apartmento. It was a collection of high rise buildings on one  gated compound. When the gate opened I noticed there weren't so many buildings after all.

She showed me to her flat and then I noticed there was no way she would not get drenched: she still would have to walk to get the stairs. I gazed at her and she had on this straight face. I smiled at her and then she smiled back. 'Thanks for bringing me home.' I nodded.  'My pleasure. ' She did not make an attempt to get out of the car. Oh well, I was not expecting her to.

Just then I remembered,  there should be an umbrella in the car. Where did I put it, I began to wonder.  I had to check the trunk. That meant stepping into the rain. I contemplated for a while. The doll looked so out of place sitting and watching the rain. 'I'm not sure where I kept the umbrella.' I told her. 'Ok.' When she took out her phone to do something on it, I opened the door and stepped out to find the umbrella. It was right there in the trunk.

I walked to the passenger door and opened it to help the doll out. I guess she had been watching me. She had her beach bag in hand and was ready to step out when I opened the door. My attention was drawn to her hair. I would not want her hair to get wet, she had work tomorrow.  I would not want her getting drenched either. I would just want her to get to her apartment safely.

Even in the rain, the doll had style. We walked to the stairs. She had a smile on her face when I turned to look into her face.  We climbed the stairs to the first floor. By this time I thought I would say goodbye and leave. I did not want her to think I was taking advantage of the situation.  I was partly wet and needed to get home.

When we got to the door of her apartment, she told me that was her place.  'Ok. I'm glad you are safe. Can you take my number please? ' She reached inside her bag and handed me her phone.  I dialled my number and waited for it to connect before saving  and handed the phone back to her. 'We'll talk when I get home.' 'Sure. Thanks a million. ' 'Oh, you're most welcome Ella. Bye.' 'Byeeeee.'

I got back to the car and it was still raining.  I made my way to the other side of town where I lived.

Yella
The first thing I did when I arrived home was to take a shower.  Not a hot one though. I sat at the dining table to have a bottle of water. I sipped on it slowly. I had still not heard from Aya. I got up to go get my beach bag. I found my phone in it. Bambi had called twice and Aya too. I dialled her number back. ' Hello' Aya answered.  'Are you okay?' I asked. 'Yes I am and you?' 'I'm home already. Where are you? ' Park center.' 'Please go home but bring the car by six tomorrow morning. ' ' Thank you big sis, you're the best.' I laughed and said: 'let me know when you get home.' 'Ok, byeee. Bye Aya'.

I didn't call  Bambi back. I sent her a text expecting a reply so I would call her but I guess she had gone to sleep. I turned off all the lights and went to my room. I turned on the Tv to watch Aljazeera whilst texting on my phone.

As always, the house was quiet except the sound of the Tv. I remembered I had to check  my clothes.  I went to the guest room and opened the closet. All blazers, trousers, tops and skirts were hanging in there.  Neatly ironed. I just wanted to be sure.

I went back to lie on my bed. Looking around the room. I had had such a lovely day first at church, with family and friends.  Here I was, back to boredom land. I wish I had someone to cuddle with or just a male presence. Not just someone.

Life was getting depressing for me. How did I end up such a loner. Oh Gawd.  Soon I would begin to wrinkle I'm sure. I laughed out loud at the thought of wrinkling. Well, ageing was inevitable in everyone's life.

I must have drifted off to sleep whilst wallowing in self pity because I was awakened by the alarm clock. 5:20. Time to go through another day. I always felt a sense of gratitude in the mornings.  I did not have all I wanted or needed but I was  better than people who slept and did not wake up ever again.














When I tell people I'm going to sleep and I end up ......

Photo: Lily Fields

It's Just People. ...

Me: I don't have time for people who never reply messages or call back. So I never call unless its important.
I never text twice in a row
Forget it, not my style.
I only like people who like me: show me you dislike me and I will stop paying attention to anything that has to do with you.
I don't have time to waste on silly insecure married women: your husband can only be my friend.  'I don't do married men.' Infact, once they are married, nothing about them attracts me. Prove to me you are insecure and I stop acting like you exist because I lose every respect for you at that point. Why should I act like you exist? To help you build your insecurity or what? Sister shut up, you are just lucky to be married.  Stop with the Peninah attitude. Not every pretty girl is a threat. Married men, out of my league.
Decode a conversation we had and seriously we won't ever have a conversation again.  Why should I have conversations with people who add, multiply and subtract before telling it to another person?  No.
I love unconditionally
I love without judging
I love people who aren't loved by others but people taught me not to just begin to love them till I'm sure of them.
Yes because they end up taking love for granted: betrayals, backstabbing.  They either end up bad mouthing you  or end up in bed with their birthday  mates and  call it a birthday date.
I forgive easily though it hurts
I take time off to battle and deal with the hurt  when it hurts so bad, but I always come back to the point where I forgive. Yet people take my ability to forgive quickly for granted.
When it's their turn to forgive, they keep me in their pain web forever.
I smile a lot
At silly stuff and spontaneously but people just keep a straight face. I keep a straight face too yet I still smile.
Why do you always scare me with that look?
I always try to say thank you even for the little things that people do for me, some people have those words missing from their vocabulary.  It's non existent.  Why can't you say thank you.  It costs nothing.
Well don't lose your self esteem yet.
I'm still walking on air knowing you are insecure around me.....Hahahah.
Sit up girl. You got the ring...hilarious.
Learn to say thank you dude.
It will take you places but might cost you something huge: you are not too big.
You, stop acting all macho.
Laughter is free; smile, smile.
Rumour monger, hope you find something else doing with your time: oh please, can't you get a life?
Unforgiving soul,'..forgive us our sins as we forgive those who trespass against us.' Since I'm the worst sinner on earth, keep holding me in your pain web. God will never forgive  yours too.

It's just People. .
Just wondering
I'm just wondering. ...

Enkasa Apparel By Myles : The Suit Maker

A few weeks ago, a friend introduced me to an industrious young man whom he referred to as Enkasa. Before meeting him personally, I was curious and inquired if that was his real name. "That is the name of his clothing line" my friend proudly said.

In four days time, I met this young man in person and I had the privilege of listening to his story of how he got into sewing of fashionable and elegant suits.

  That day, my friend brought me a shirt which read: Enkasa, apparel by Myles. Myles was sharply dressed in an orange tuxedo. He also carried a handset. I was really impressed by his work and will like to share his amazing story with the world especially you. Get to hear what he has to say when I asked him about enkasa!

Enkasa Apparel is a clothing line which currently sews made in Ghana suits for men. Why the name Enkasa? Enkasa in twi  literally  means: don't talk. Growing up,  he was told to let the fruits of his actions do the talking. Years on, Myles chose Enkasa. Which simply means: with Enkasa apparel, you don't do the talking, your apparel does the talking for you.

Enkasa apparel was set up five months ago by Myles Awuku, a twenty five year old graduate of the University of Ghana. During his national service with the National Commission for Civic Education in Ada, he decided to cater for orphans because he identified with the frustrations, difficulties and hunger homeless and orphans go through.
After his national service and failed attempts at securing a job regardless of the numerous application letters he wrote, he decided to start his own clothing line. A clothing line not because he was into fashion or to make profit but to enable him provide employment opportunities for others and also to fulfill his dream of catering for orphans.

Having been raised by a single mother for ten years before she finally passed away, Myles Awuku grew up without both parents as his father also died  right after his Mum did. Life was not easy growing up as an orphan and he has resolved to make life easier for orphans no matter where he finds himself. Owning a clothing line would enable him pursue this cause as it would give him a voice: providing a means of employment for others as well as catering for orphans.

Though Enkasa is just five months old, he fed over sixty children of the New Life Orphanage on the 28th March, 2015. A day after his birthday supported by friends. Last December, he was supported by  Focus Xtreme to fete for orphans at Tetegu near Mccarthy.

Currently, Enkasa apparel, located in Dzorwulu, designs  for all occasions including weddings and has designed for some people in the USA, Dubai and some Ghanaian celebrities.

The future looks bright for this young man as he hopes to sell the Enkasa brand world wide. Wondering if he designs for women, Watch out for the Enkasa  Woman You: skirt, suit and blazer coming soon in memory of his late mum :Charlotte. The story of Enkasa cannot be told without acknowledging Mr.Martin Awuku  who has been very supportive of this dream from day one.

If you ever spot the guy in suit with the antique handset, it simply means: don't talk, let your apparel do the talking for you.

Your passion and zeal is admirable.

Long live Enkasa Apparel

Black Thursday: Shut Up You!

I have never done this. I hate writing about issues that every one else writes about especially the serious ones that can cause feuds between people. So I try to stay away from such topics because we live in a dispensation where, you can't talk openly about issues without being labelled as one sided. Either belonging to party A or B if you are not careful. I love writing and this is not something I would want to give up for expressing an opinion : to me, writing is like opium.   I would love to be a voice for some people one day. I would love to serve some people and fight for their cause but, I have no intentions of becoming a politician. I would rather be just an activist.

Today, circumstances have compelled the Puppishgirl to write this. I did not only see it on Tv but I went to a few places with a friend  and saw the damage caused to victims of the Accra floods.  From loss of properties to loss of lives due to the petrol station fire incident. My hearts out to the families of the deceased. There are too many lapses in our system, I realized it when a man my friend and I saved was left to die at the Police hospital due to negligence a few weeks ago when he got knocked down by a vehicle on a dark night. I lost faith in the whole system thing for a while until recently.

Whether it is  administration ineptitude,  indiscipline, whatever,  I won't address those issues. I'm too angry to do that. Six years ago, I was a victim and can relate to the phlights of those who were victims today. No comments.  Let me ask you, did the government ask my family to go build in the water way? Is government responsible for people: educated and uneducated dumping refuse at wrong places?  Why do we have to deal with the Accra floods annually? I know people who blame the government even when their Television isn't working . I'm not surprised at the mayor's comment on BBC at all, no comments.

Everyone on social media has their own opinion but I  honestly think sometimes people who do not live in this country should not even contribute to such debates. Accra floods come every year. We all know that.  This isn't the time to
start apportioning blame. This isn't the  time to determine which party is in government. This isn't the time to post gory pictures and gain publicity when you are not a media house or even work with one. Would you be happy to find out your relative is involved, through such a medium?  This is not the time to say we do not need prayers. We need everything that will ensure long term solutions beginning from our proactivity.

This involves you and I if only you are Ghanaian.  Don't sit in another country and say this happens every year. Don't say crap because you were not a victim.  Tell me, if those seeking shelter at the petrol station died due to their own negligence.  Stop with the loose talk. People are hurting and all you do is say crap. Where death is involved, it's a sensitive issue.  Stop with the  loose talk. If you can't say anything different, just shut up. We've had enough drama already.

I honestly hope that appropriate measures to prevent future occurrences will begin from tomorrow even if it means demolishing, investing large sums of money and just doing the right thing rather than just the theories: more talk, less action. In all yes, it was  torrential, we could not have stopped the rain.

God bless our homeland Ghana.
God save our homeland Ghana and grant us peace, strength and wisdom to do this now.
God see the victims of the Accra floods through their time of distress
God comfort those who have lost loved ones due to the floods and the petrol station fire outbreak.
My condolences to the families involved.

Sad day.

Sad day in the history of my country.

To the memory of those who lost their lives in the disaster and to celebrate those who survived it with appreciation to God  for this day.

Lessons From Argentina: You Can Still Get A Goal!

It was a rainy morning in the capital. I heard people scream goa-l so I decided to find out who was playing football in the rain. I remembered then that, there  was a tournament ongoing in New Zealand.

The Black Satellites of Ghana were playing against Argentina in the group stages of the under twenty world cup.   I watched as Ghana put themselves in, what I thought was a comfortable lead; three goals up in the second half.

I won't say I was expecting the scoreline to change but, I have come to learn in football, that a minute can change the outcome of the game. Though I was  supporting my country and was hoping it would be a win for us, I still knew things could change.

I like the attitude displayed by our opponents. Three goals down did not seem to deter them. Unlike some people, losing out a few times means it is never going to be a win. I was pissed off because as always, the Black Satellites learning from their big  brothers, allowed complacency to set in. Letting their opponents score two goals in a matter of minutes. Most of the time, as human beings, we become too comfortable with our situations.

You are a basic school teacher, doing well at your profession.  Your take home pay is just okay to sustain you, so ten years after becoming a teacher, you do not take on any challenge.  Yet, you could challenge yourself to become a Senior High School teacher by upgrading yourself. Once you are comfortable with your situation, you will never dare to take on a new challenge.  Don't limit yourself! Argentina had their eyes set on the next stages of the tournament so when they were down, even with just a few minutes left to the end, they could not give up till the final whistle.

At other times, it is not because we are comfortable but because we dare to determine or predict the end of the game even before the final whistle. If Argentina had thought Ghana would win no matter what, they would never have forged ahead to get two goals.

You  were a single woman who always prayed to God for a husband.  He finally gave you one and all you do now is, you have stopped dressing up and looking good. Stopped praying and  cooking because finally your name has changed. You have already predicted the end, though it is a union for life. What happened to all that you did in the past to get the man attracted to you? Why have you changed just because your name has changed? Your name has changed but it is not the end. The  Argentines were three goals down in the game. Yet for them, it was only the beginning of the dream not the end because, they had not yet heard the final whistle marking the end of full time.

'I can't do it' and  'You can't do it' are phrases used by some people  even before full  time. What makes you think you can't do it? We are in the sixth month of the year.  You set  targets  for yourself early on in the year but till now, nothing has gone right.You are thinking it won't work. Perhaps because someone has told you, you cannot do it or because you are telling yourself, you can't do it. Has it occurred to you that,  it is not over yet? It is only half-time and in half- time, anything can happen.  A minute can determine how the story ends.

You can do it if you want to. You can get there. It's not over. It is only half-time, get to work. Stop being complacent. Stop writing yourself off. Do not allow people to beat you down with their  words. You are not a loser. You are still in the game if you have life. You can still try to do it: focus in concentration. It's only Half-time not full time. You can still get a goal. Go get it!

He Asked And I Said Yes

'Do you promise to love this man, foresaking all others,  to cherish and stay faithful to this man for the rest of your life? ' Reverend Fabin asked again. The bride needed to answer the question to ensure a  smooth running of the ceremony.The garden was quiet awaiting the bride's response.

She had listened carefully to the words of Reverend Fabin from the beginning but didn't hear him conclude his question.  She had only been brought back to reality when she heard her  name. 'Lola, do you promise to love this man, foresaking all others,  to cherish and stay faithful to this man for the rest of your life?' Reverend Fabin asked again.  The bride still did not respond. Hyde stared at her face wondering if something was amiss. Had she changed her mind. Why wasn't she responding. Had she changed her mind, he wondered.

Lola
I heard Reverend Fabin ask the question from the beginning and listened attentively as if I was hearing it for the first time.   Though I had heard it over and over again during our prep up sessions leading to today.  I did not have the chance to answer.  I lost concentration as  Reverend Fabin   went on. Then, I heard him mention my name and listened as he repeated the question again.  Giving each a word a careful thought but my mind drifted off....

It struck my mind, how it had all began. It had been raining for hours in the city. My car got stuck in the middle of the road and would not move again.  I wondered what would happen to me in the rain. Frustrated ,  I buried my face on the steering wheel. After a while, I heard a tap on the glass but did not bother.  Then I heard it again and raised my head to find a dark handsome guy, standing in the rain and staring at me.

He  helped me get home and later had my car brought to me.  That had marked a discovery journey for me. I found in him: a best friend, a laughing mate, a nurse, a doctor,a chef, Mr. Fix it, my gift, my bible class teacher,  my super man and more. Each day, his actions endorsed him as the Adam I had been praying for. Six months after we met, Hyde asked me the question I had been looking forward to being asked for the most part of my adult life.

He had invited me to Jades where he and his friends had been hanging out that evening and there, he had it all planned.  'My queen; Lola, would you marry me pleaseeeeee?'  Remembering that day brought a smile to my face  now and I know remembering today in future,  would even make me laugh as long as this lasts.

I stared at Hyde. He looked perturbed. Thank you for making me so happy.  Thank you for choosing me to do this with.  I'm  lucky to have you and today, I promise to love, cherish and celebrate you forever. I thought secretly to myself.  'I doooooooooooooo' Smiling stupidly. The thunderous applause that came from the  witnesses  present at our celebration of love brought me back to reality. I had said the I do unconsciously.

I was walking on air.
The beauty of love found me.

I've been on break.
Had challenges with my health so the break was necessary. 
I'm back now.

Photo source:  :)
I can use all your pictures as many times as I wish without asking or acknowledging the source says me :)

Still Learning

I was quick to judge
Quick to decide
Hasty in my decision making
Inconsiderate towards the feelings of others and quick to speak.
What a humbling experience it has been for me.
In your distress, you learn the most vital lessons.
When you are down,
You learn the act of keeping faith
In falling,
You acquire enough strength to never quit.

I learned.
Humbling few days.
Even in my darkest time, I'm grateful to God for seeing me through. From Saturday till now.

He Carries Me: Thank you Lord

'Safe in your arms
Sheltered from harm
How great is your goodness ....

Hidden away
Hidden from harm
How great your love...'

Randy Rothwell' s song above fits how I'm feeling.

Tonight, I'm just wondering who am I? That God carries and loves me so much.
His love for me is beyond description.  It is not like the love of some guy who loves me today and doesn't love me tomorrow.  It is not like the love of some guy who gets mad at me for one mistake I made and never wants to see or speak with me again.  His love for me is unconditional.
His love is not like that of those who choose who to love, he doesn't fail neither does he disappoint.

On Wednesday night, Iasked that he carry me. I did not know that a few days after that, I would go through a test of who carries me. Tonight,  I can confidently say the God of Abraham, Jacob and Isaac carries me. The woman with the issue of blood believed in touching just the hem of his garment to put an end to twelve long years of suffering. 

At 3am today, it started as a joke. I was calm and collected as well as optimistic. An hour later, I knew I was in for a long haul but my conviction held me. If I'm being carried, he who carries my burden must deal with it not me. After two hours, I had prayed and prayed. I had worshipped and just appreciated him for what he was about to do but it didn't happen for what seemed like hours.

I cried. I prayed. I screamed. I was inconsolable.  Five long hours of distress. Five long hours, unable to sit or lay down.  Five long hours of screaming, pain, torture. I had tried everything.  Nothing seemed to be working. Sweating, panting, pacing back and forth,  tears flowed like a waterfall as I waited to be taken into emergency. It didn't matter how many needles or knives they would use. I just wanted to be fine again.

Quarter bag out.  Half and then one full. Finally over a bag. Who am I? Who am I? Who am I, that you  carried me all day and saw me through?  Your love is amazing.  I'm lost for words.  All I can say is thank you Lord for seeing me through 16th May, 2015. Thank you.  I lived for the moment.All of me says thank you.

Thanks to everyone who has stood by me from 3am till now.  For all the prayers, love and support. God is indeed ahead.
I appreciate all the love.

You Are A Woman

For once, these women who preach 'You don't need a man' admit they have their lonely moments.  They cry, they go through days when they wish they had their own children or their own men.

I have come to understand that, not everyone gets what they want at every stage in life. Sometimes, you can push your way through: you can work your way to where you want to be, or who you want to be.

Yet, certain things in life, such as being a wife or a mother cannot be achieved the same way you can work at becoming a pilot or a doctor. Even motherhood has options. You can choose to be a surrogate mum or  adopt a child and still have someone call you Mummy.

What about being a wife? No one adopts a wife or calls anyone my step wife or surrogate wife. You are either married or you are single. You cannot push yourself to become a wife. In writing my novel: Sunshine Dollup, I came to relate so well to my main character who was single and told the story so well I believe. I can now comprehend the single woman better.

Watching all these single women: childless, being celebrated Today: sharing their experiences, admitting their weaknesses, I just realized that sometimes,  you cannot have it all though others do.

You just have to learn to be content.
You are a woman, just be content.
Womanhood is a blessing. 

To the one woman who keeps reminding me that, giving up is not an option and that regardless of what time and age it is, I can still get there; my alarm clock, my fightmate, my prayer partner, my best and worst friend, my advisor, the most patient and tolerant woman I've ever known, my seamstress, hairstylist, my teacher.....the list goes on, my Alice.

To  a mum in heaven, forever in my heart.

To every woman who has been a mother to me, I appreciate you....
I have quite a tall list, would rather not mention names.

To the mother of the man of my dreams :)  thanks in advance.

To every woman, celebrating you'all.

Sunshine Dollup : Diary Of A Single Woman VII

Yella
What was Audrey thinking. She and her Jeremy excused themselves, Claude and I watched as they walked hand in hand and gradually disappeared.

Our order arrived but I just picked my phone and started texting Bambi. I sincerely hoped she would come on line. 'Hey big sis, you okay?' 'No Bambi. I'm sitting at the beach with some weird guy.'
'Lol. Give me a description of him.' 'Tall, fair, not cute but attractive. White teeth, I'm wondering if he's bleached'  'Hehehehe. Married, single, dating?' Asked Bambi. 'He isn't wearing a band.' 'Oh well, work it big sis. I'm stepping out briefly. Lets chat later.Love you xx'
Bambi went off line without waiting for me to finish typing.

I looked up at Claude's face and he was staring at me. 'Can we eat now?' Without waiting for my response,  he picked a tissue and handed me a piece of pizza before helping himself. 'Thanks.' Was all I could manage to say. What was that for? Did I ask him to help me? Interesting dude. By the time I was done, he had helped me pick another one without asking. 

'Where do you live Ella?' 'Down West and you?'  'Milkyway.' I nodded.  Well he asked me, I was just trying to make conversation. 'What do you do?' Errrrmmmm, why do you want to know.  I thought to myself. 'I'm an Investment banker.' 'Whats your focus?' Claude asked again. 'Mergers and acquisitions. ' He looked intrigued by now. I lecture part time as well.' He smiled . ' What did you study at school?' MBA in Law'. 'Aha, interesting. Smart girl.' This time, I smirked  ' . ...and what do you do?' He  smiled staring into my eyes. His smile was funny I thought.  I smiled back. 'You have a beautiful smile' Claude said to me. 'Thanks.' Dude, answer the question and stop with the unnecessary flattery. I'm aware. Yella is beautiful.  God  did a good job with me. No need reminding me. I know it.

'I'm a doctor.' He got me laughing.  You're a joke I thought.  You? A doctor? How many patients do you attend to in a day because seriously dude, you look funny. Your patients must love you. 'Thats nice' I managed to say. 'Coming from you, thanks.' He said smiling. 

There was an awkward moment of silence whilst we all munched on the pizza. 'Are you working tomorrow? ' Claude asked.  'Yes, are you? ' 'No, I'm on vacation.'    'Good for you... So what are you going to be doing with your time?' 'Have breakfast,  lunch or dinner with you if you would let me.'  I laughed at his statement.  'Me?' 'Yes sure. Please say yes.' For a moment I thought he was joking but he kept asking.

'I'm sorry.  Can't have breakfast or lunch with you.' 'Dinner? ' I thought through my schedule for tomorrow. I had to get home to finish with my End of semester exam questions.  I had to submit them by tuesday at noon. No way. Ain't got time to have dinner with anyone tomorrow.  'Dinner, its settled right, 8pm. Marbles, is that okay? '  'Hahahah.  I haven't said yes.' 'Oh well,  I was hoping you would say yes.' 'Okay Claude,8pm.' I agreed though I didn't want to. Afterall, I was going to be home alone and was going to finish with my questions in an hour or so. I was sure to spend the rest of my night alone and wishing I had someone to cuddle or laugh with.

Audrey and Jeremy only came back when darkness fell on the beach. I had tried reaching Aya several times but her phone was off. How was I going to get home, I thought. 'Are you okay?' Claude asked. I nodded and he smiled at me. 'So Aya will pick you up? ' Audrey asked. ' Well, thats what we agreed on but her phone is off.' 'Let Claude drop you at home.' Without waiting for my response,  she went on to ask him. 'Claude, can you please take Yella home? Her sister is supposed to be picking her up but her phone is off .' 'I can do that. ' Claude answered. 

Audrey and I walked behind as the guys walked infront of us to the car park. It was dark and the beach was becoming cold. I kept trying Aya's phone but it was still off. When we got to the car park, Jeremy bid me goodbye whilst Audrey hugged me. 'We'll talk when I get home. It was fun hanging out with you. ' She said smiling.  Fun, I thought.  You and your boyfriend just disappeared leaving me all alone and you call that fun. My lips are sealed.

Claude and I walked in silence as he guided me  to his car. We got to the 2014  silver Acura MDX, was I seeing right. I saw this car on Tv the other day. 2015 and 2014. I love cars and have been looking out to make them out easily. Aya and I do that often to see who gets the name right. Well maybe it isn't an Acura MDX, I thought. Yes it is, I'm sure. As I contemplated, Claude opened the door for me to get seated and shut it after me. I waited as he came to sit in the drivers seat beside me and turned on the ignition. He stared at me before moving the car. I took out my phone again.  Dialling Aya's number. It was still off. Why would Aya's phone be off. She had not even sent a text to let me know if there was a problem.

Claude rudely interupted my thoughts as it began to rain. 'I'm glad we left the beach.' 'Me too, we would have gotten drenched.' 'Yes.' The car was quiet again with just the radio on. I turned to gaze at Claude and then looked away onto the road that stretched on, ahead of us.

Are You Really My Friend?

What do you do when you are talking to someone you think is your friend; someone you don't even have issues with and all of a sudden he points a gun at you?

I never would have sat down to think about this but on Thursday night, I had the worst experience of my life.

Whilst talking to someone I thought was a friend, he just pointed a gun to my head. Don't ask how I felt. I can't explain. For a moment, I thought I was going to die. Finally when that long moment was over, I can't tell where the tears came from.  They just streaked down my cheeks.  'You're such a cry baby, I was just joking....' He kept saying.  Oh well, how can you point a gun to my head and call that a joke? You could have mistakenly pressed.....

I'm thinking, if I had died on Thursday  night, no one would have ever traced my death to him. Never. Where I said I was going, was not where I was. If I had died, you would never be able to call and reach me again.

Today,  the story would have been different because someone thought I liked 'fooling' and pointing a gun at me was a nice way  of taming me, because I'm a dog? Interesting.

Well I'm grateful that he didn't pull the trigger but really, are you ever going to be my friend again? I'm scared of you. Its not funny! Are you sure, you were my friend? Are you my friend?

I know you are reading this.  Shame on you for doing that to me. Dare call my phone or text to ask why I put it here, I'll mention your name on social media. You can't go about misconducting yourself because your dad is.......
Next time!