Previously On The One I Love.

Credit Temitope Daniel
.

“Hope you’re fine wherever you are?”

She said softly and couldn’t hold back her tears as she remembered she was the one that took the photograph for him the day they went to an eatery.

“Is he still in Manchester?” She wondered.

“I hope you’ve not forgotten me, because of you I’m not giving my heart to anyone, not even Tobi.” She spoke quietly.

She was speaking, and staring at the picture until she slept off.

****

Tolani asked him the companies he knew that could handle construction properly.

“David and co.”

“How sure are you?”

“I’m very sure. My best friend; Tobi is the contract manager and they’ve won almost all the contracts bidded for and they are good. I must say.” He replied.

“That’s nice.” Tolani smiled

He turned on his laptop and searched for the company on net and was convinced they coud handle constructions well.

***********

. “Tola, how are you?”

“I’m good.

“Have your seat.”

“How have you been?”

“We thank God and you?”

“Same here. After I called you, I also searched for some companies I know that are great.

“So to cut the long story short, they should be awarded the contract?” She smiled.

“Yes. I think they’re capable of doing a good and neat job.” He smiled.

“Alright. I’m so grateful. But I need your help.” She stopped.

“My help? How?” Tolani was serious.

“Can you please get time for me tomorrow? Lets go together to the company together.”

“Tomorrow….” Tolani pressed his lips together, thinking If he had anything so important to do. “Alright.” He replied, smiling.

“Thanks so much.” Feyi was grateful.

Episode 12

Same night.

STELLA AND FAVE’S HOUSE.

“Do you think Tolani will still be in Manchester?” Stella asked Fave as she lowered the volume of the television set.

“I don’t think so, he should now be in Nigeria.” She replied,  picking pop corn from the plate before her.

“Why did you say so?” She asked, wanting to be sure.

“At least his course should be over by now.. Have you got in touch with him?” She asked.

“No, I’ve been wondering about him.” She replied.

“Do you still have feelings for that guy?” Favour asked.

“Sure. I don’t know why, I do feel as if we’ve not broken up, that I just left him to go study, he will bestill be back.”

Favour laughed. Just then, Stella’s phone rang.

She picked it up. It was Tobiloba. “Can I help you?” She said first.

“I called to greet you and to tell you that I didn’t drink today.” Tobi said softly, like a gentle guy.

“You didn’t drink? I don’t trust you.” Stella smiled.

“I’m serious. The mouth organ you brought has changed a lot in me. I was heading out to drink when I saw the it and i couldn’t go again. It was as if it had a magnet in it that drew me back.”

“If this is true, I’m happy for you then. I should tell your Grandma tomorrow.” She was smiling.

“Don’t tell her yet. I feel I owe you something. I’ll give you a gift tomorrow.” He said on the other end.

“A gift?” Stella chuckled. Tobi had never been so nice that way. Hope he wasn’t driving at something, she thought.

“I’m serious. Be expecting it.” He said to her and ended the call.

****

NEXT MORNING, 9 am.

“Good morning dear.” Tobi greeted Stella.

‘Dear?’ Stella muttered. “Good morning Tobi.” She replied smiling.

“Why can’t you reply me as your dear.” He accused.

“Because you are not my dear.” She replied smiling.

“I am not?” He exhaled deeply. “Yes, or are you?” Stella questioned.

“I don’t know what came over me. I don’t know what happened throughout yesterday but it has never happened to me before. I couldn’t stop thinking about you, that was why I called. I may have been acting wickedly or annoyingly but all was to know your character. And, I believe God sent you to me for a reason. Stella… I love…” he couldn’t complete his statement because there was a knock at the door.

Stella was just staring at him, asking herself if she wasn’t dreaming. Was it a reality or another test from Tobi?

“Who’s there?” Tobi quickly asked.

“From the director’s office,  we came to see the contract managers.” Tobi was replied by a female voice.

Tobi comported himself. He was already going emotional. “Come in.” He said, smiling.

Feyi and Tolani walked in.

Stella turned her head to the left to see the people coming in and her glance collided with that of Tolani. She stood at once.

She kept on staring at him with great surprise, likewise Tolani. Tolani’s car key fell from his hand as he kept on staring at her.

Was he dreaming or imagining? Was that a reality or daydream?

It was something he couldn’t really lay his hands on. “Stella.” Tolani  thought.

Tobi was getting impatient as he saw how both of them were staring at each other. Did they know each other from somewhere? He cleared his throat to make them self conscious but it couldn’t work.

“Are you not the lady of the other day?” Feyi stared at her.

None of Tolani and Stella could stop staring at each other, Stella couldn’t even reply Feyi who asked her the question.

“What is happening!” Tobi shouted. His patience couldn’t endure what was happening any longer.

Stella exhaled deeply after she had held her breath for some seconds and sat down. Her mood was uncontrollable, she was breathing heavily as she sat down.

Tolani smiled. Mission accomplished.

********

“ I’m sorry for the action, it was due to something I can’t lay my hands on. You are Mr Tobi right?” Feyi smiled as she shook Tobi.

Tobi managed to smile too. His mind wasn’t through with what just happened. It seemed they knew each other.

“Good morning.”

Tolani was glimpsing at Stella often as he proceeded to Tobi’s table and greeted him. “Good morning sir.” He smiled.

Tobi who had been jealous replied sharply. “Good morning.”

“We were directed by the director to come and see you. Though we ought not to come by this ourselves but we thought it’d be better coming to see things for ourselves and thrashing things out.” Feyi introduced the discussion.

“Alright. I’m glad to see you. You are welcome to David and Co company. What can I do to help you.”

“A construction project. There are about ten companies bidding for the project and we wish to involve this company too about the project. It’s about constructing a big company.”

“Alright. Stella please get me building file with you.” Tobi called Stella.

Tolani turned his head at once, to use the oppurtunity to glimpse at her again. “I’m going to appreciate it if you face me sir.” Tobi addressed Tolani, tapping him.

“Oorh… sorry, i was eager to see the file.” He smiled.

“I see..” Tobi nodded. He knew he was lying.

Feyi was getting angry too. It was as If she should disappear to Kate’s house to discuss how things were to her. She had started liking Tolani likewise, since the day she met him but her feelings weren’t as strong as that of Tobi until he promised her he’d help her with the issue of her project.

She had moved to Kate’s house to live there temporarily. She preffered a friend’s place to her father’s boring house.

She had already discussed about Tolani with Kate and she had told her Tolani would definitely fall in love with her as they were getting more closer. What Kate said made her have weird thoughts like she and Tolani at the alter making vows of love.

She couldn’t wait to know of Tolani loved her but with his reaction now, what would happen?

Stella picked the file and went ahead to Tobi’s table. Immediately she got there, Tolani turned his head again, staring at her. He didn’t mask his feelings as if he had hated her or trying to play hard to get. He was showing his true colour. He still loved her.

“Sir, please face me.” Tobi cautioned him again on seeing him turning his head towards Stell.

“Oorh… sorry.” He grinned and faced Tobi.

Stella on the other hand was also love impatient. Tolani’s behaviours had shown he still loved her, she also still loved him and wished both could talk right away.

“Hope there’s no problem?” Feyi questioned Tolani quietly,  noticing his behaviour. She was getting annoyed and jealous.

“Problem? None!” Tolani grinned.

Tobi shook his head staring at Tolani as if he should send him out of the office.

“I just want you to check out the companies we’ve worked on.” He showed them the documents.

“No problem.” Tolani said without looking at the documents. He was impatient, as if he should take her outside and both should talk.

“Mr, you didn’t check it out.” Tobi said to him.

“I’ve checked them on the net.” He smiled.

“Alright, how do we go about this project? Firstly, we’ll bring out architectural plans and quotations for the bidding. Where do we come to?” He asked.

“Maybe Diamond Hotel.” Feyi faced Tolani.

“Who will bring the stuffs?” He asked Tobi.

“She’ll bring it.” Tobi pointed at Stella.

“Let’s make it my company so that it’s going to be easier than yours.” He smiled.

Tobi just wanted to know what he’d say. Though, it was Stella that should take it but seeing Tolani’s reactions, “I’ll bring it.” He quickly changed his mind.

“I guess that’s better, you should take it to him.” Feyi also supported.

“Alright, thanks ma.” Tobi grinned and compiled the documents together.

“Please,  I’ll like you to see me in my office this evening.” Feyi said to Stella.

“Alright.” Stella replied with a polite tone.

“Do they know each other?” Tolani asked himself.

****

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Previously On The One I Love.

Credit Temitope Daniel..

“Who asked you to sit down? You better remain standing.”

“Why should I stand?” She tried to argue.

“Why on earth won’t you? You want to be working with me? Do you know I’m your boss? I’m going to deal with you…. in fact, frustrate you.” He hissed.

‘This is gonna be fun..’ she thought and kept laughing.

“First question is that…. hmmn… Why did you agree with my Grandma to frustrate me?”

“Is this an interview?” Both started laughing.

. “Why are you laughing now?”

“Aren’t you laughing as well?” She kept on laughing.

“Wait, jokes aside. Tell me or I’m going to tell the boss you failed the interview and you are  not worth the post.” He threatened.

*************

“Today was great!” Favour jumped happily.

“Mine was great but you can’t believe that Tobi is the manager I’m being the assistant to.” She chuckled and clapped her hands together.

“It’s a lie! Favour calmed down and sat down. Are you really serious?” She questioned her.

“Jokes apart.” She smiled.

“That’s great! Tobi’s wife..” she laughed.

“Rubbish girl..” She hissed and hit her

CHECK THE PAGE FOR EPISODE 10

Episode 11

Stella went to bed earlier than she did that day. As she laid down, she sighted Tolani’s picture which she put on the small stool beside her bed. She picked it up and stared at it for a moment. Her mood turned apart as she continued staring at the picture.

“Hope you’re fine wherever you are?”

She said softly and couldn’t hold back her tears as she remembered she was the one that took the photograph for him the day they went to an eatery.

It was a sunny afernoon when Tolani came to meet her in her hostel and told her he’d like to take her out for lunch like his friends were doing that day. On getting to the front of the eatery, he brought out his camera and gave it to her to snap him and both of them would snap together as a proof to his friends that he came with her to the eatery.

She remembered another event when she forgot her assignment in the room and couldn’t leave the class because it had been shut. It was Tolani that managed to give her his own. He canceled his name and wrote hers.

Though they were almost caught but he saved her from that problem again. If that wasn’t done, she’d have been the one who would face the lecturer to be awarded her punishments.

Lots of what he had done for her, she only wanted the best for him amd didn’t want to be an excuse to his success. If not, they’d still be together.

“Is he still in Manchester?” She wondered.

“I hope you’ve not forgotten me, because of you I’m not giving my heart to anyone, not even Tobi.” She spoke quietly.

She was speaking, and staring at the picture until she slept off.

****

Tolani’s friends had already spent two days already in Nigeria. Tolani had been parading the hotel since their arrival, though a day wouldn’t pass without remembering Stella. He’d also ask himself series of questions like; Had she forgotten him or  he wasting her time on someone who had no time for her?

All would be well.

****

THE NEXT DAY.

Feyi picked up her mobile phone and called Tolani. She spoke to him about establishing herself and told him she’d need to award the contract to a construction company. She needed to build up her own company and leave her father’s hotel.

She told him she’d draw out the plan of how she wanted the company to be, what would be left was to get a company to award the contract of the construction.

“That’s not a problem, I’ll see you by evening when I come to check on my friends in your hotel.” He got her informed.

“Alright,  thanks.” She appreciated him amd ended the call.

Tolani picked up his phone and dialed the Manager’s number and requested for his presence.

After some minutes, Deji, the manager knocked at his door and was allowed in.

Tolani was happy he came as fast as he could and started the discussion with him. He asked him the companies he knew that could handle construction properly.

“David and co.” He said without thinking.

“How sure are you?” He asked him.

“I’m very sure. My best friend; Tobi is the contract manager and they’ve won almost all the contracts bidded for and they are good. I must say.” He replied.

He was one of Tobi’s friend that did drink with him. “That’s nice.” Tolani smiled and thanked him. He told him he’d get back to him if he needed any assistance.

He turned on his laptop and searched for the company on net and was convinced they coud handle constructions well. He gave Feyi a call and told her about the company. He told her not to put all her eggs in a basket. She should also call on other companies to know their worth but he’d like David and co to receive the contract.

Feyi was happy and thanked him. They planned on meeting at her hotel by the evening to talk better.

****

♥DIAMOND HOTEL.

Tolani walked into the hotel slowly. He smiled on seeing the receptionist and shook him. He was such a friendly guy. “How una dey?” He asked him.

“I’m good oh.” He smiled and bowed.

“As usual, want to see my friends and Feyi.” He told him.

“No problem sir.” The guy smiled.

“Thanks.” He dipped his hand into his pocket and gave him a sum of money. He left his presence then headed to Feyi’s office.

He knocked softly before he was asked to come in by Feyi. Waiting for him, kept her that late in the office. “Tola, how are you?”

“I’m good. He smiled and moved closer to shake her.

“Have your seat.” She shook him and smiled.

Tolani sat down wearing a cheerful face.

“How have you been?” He tried to be fluent with her.

“We thank God and you?” She enquired.

“Same here. After I called you, I also searched for some companies I know that are great. But according to my research, David and co is still the best. I saw pictures of buildings constructed by them and other contracts they’ve won. Both state contracts and that of Federal.” He explained.

“So to cut the long story short, they should be awarded the contract?” She smiled.

“Yes. I think they’re capable of doing a good and neat job.” He smiled.

“Alright. I’m so grateful. But I need your help.” She stopped.

“My help? How?” Tolani was serious.

“Can you please create time for me tomorrow? Lets go together to the company together.”

“Tomorrow….” Tolani pressed his lips together, thinking If he had anything so important to do. “Alright.” He replied, smiling.

“Thanks so much.” Feyi was grateful.

Do you see it too?

Previously On The One I Love.

Credit Temitope Daniel..

. “How are you Miss Stella?”

“I’m good sir.. Good Morning.”

“Good morning sir.” He was still shaking her when he noticed a big truck parked outside.  “I’ll be right back.” He smiled and faced Folake. “Give me the Key to Tobi’s office.

Stella smiled. “Tobi..” she recapitulated.

Tobi halted. He wiped his face twice and gazed at the lady sitting near the secretary. “Stella.” He called her name out.

Stella was also appalled. She stood and stared at him. Exactly what she was thinking of came out to be a reality.

‘Is he the manager?’

‘Hope this lady isn’t my assistant.’ Tobi also wondered.

“Mr Tobi, you couldn’t add Mrs or Miss to her name, you just said Stella just like that

“I’m sorry… was… don’t even know.” He hissed and flagged his hand. “Where’s the boss?”

****

“I’ve been expecting you, sit down.” Temitope said to Tobi.

“Yes sir.” Tobi smiled and sat down.

“You must have seen the lady out there, please interview her in your office.

“Alright sir, I’ll go do that now.” He smiled and stood up.

Interview? I go show you today…  Tobi thought and walked out, back to the secretary’s office.

CHECK THE PAGE FOR EPISODE 9

Episode 10

Hello, Miss… hmmn.. hmmn.. Stella, come for the interview.” He said deliberately, dragging the words.

Folake glanced at her and shook her head. She still couldn’t tell if they knew each other anywhere, she just assumed Tobi was impolite to her.

Stella breathed heavily and stood up. She followed him as he led the way. They finally got to the office. Tobi sat down.

Stella pulled the chair before her to sit when Tobi spoke. “Who asked you to sit down? You better remain standing.”

“Why should I stand?” She tried to argue.

“Why on earth won’t you? You want to be working with me? Do you know I’m your boss? I’m going to deal with you…. in fact, frustrate you.” He hissed.

Stella chuckled and clapped her hands together.

“Just sit!” He hissed again.

“Thanks.” Stella laughed and sat down.

‘This is gonna be fun..’ she thought and kept laughing.

“Stop laughing oh or I will tell the boss that you have failed the interview.” He threatened.

Stella controlled herself and looked serious as she fixed her eye balls on Tobi’s.

“First question is that…. hmmn… Why did you agree with my Grandma to frustrate me?”

“Is this an interview?” Both started laughing.

Tobi didn’t know when he started laughing. The way he addressed her was funny to both  of them. “Why are you laughing now?” He asked her, still trying to control his laughter likewise.

“Aren’t you laughing as well?” She kept on laughing.

“Wait, jokes aside. Tell me or I’m going to tell the boss you failed the interview and you are  not worth the post.” He threatened.

Now, both of them had stopped laughing but they still had smiles on their faces. “I don’t understand your question. Do I?”

“Yes you do.. you really do.” Tobi said.

“I don’t know the answer so give me another question.”

“Alright, I’ll believe that. The second question is about you. What’s your best food?” He asked

“Nawa oh!” Stella snapped her finger, laughing.

“You better answer..” he chuckled.

“Fried rice.” She replied.

“See her mouth.. thief.”

****

Later in the day.

It was just past 4pm. Stella was smiling on her seat as she went through the files before her. The company had won seven contracts out of ten contracts in a year. She was told that day would be like an introduction day, she’d read everything about the company and her job.

She was doing that when Folake knocked at the door. “Come in.” Stella said.

Folake walked in and faced Tobi. “Boss said we should all gather at the conference hall, except you- Stella.” She said.

“Alright, thanks.” He said.

Immediately Folake left, he faced Stella. “I’m the owner of this office, if you don’t know. Did I ask you to help me tell her to come in?” He questioned her.

“You just like disturbing.” She hissed jokingly and faced the files.

“Landlady of fried rice.” He chuckled and stood up,  ready to leave for the conference hall.

“Whatever.”  She hissed again

*************

The meeting was held to introduce the new staff members, Immediately Temitope got to know everyone had gathered into the hall, he went into Tobi’s office to pick Stella up.

They both walked beside each other into the hall. Temitope introduced her to all the members of staff as the newly employed assistant contract manager. Tobi was just smiling where he was, praying she’d have a nice stay in the company by the time he would be through with her.

****

“Today was great!” Favour jumped happily.

“Mine was great but you can’t believe that Tobi is the manager I’m being the assistant to.” She chuckled and clapped her hands together.

“It’s a lie! Favour calmed down and sat down. Are you really serious?” She questioned her.

“Jokes apart.” She smiled.

“That’s great! Tobi’s wife..” she laughed.

“Rubbish girl..” She hissed and hit her

What’s your thoughts so far, is someone falling?

#Teampobs ✌

Previously On The One I Love.

Credit Temitope Daniel.

Tobi got to the hospital with Stella. He made sure he settled part of the bill and promised to come with the remaining in the evening. He just went to the ATM to withdraw some cash.

“Stella followed him outside, she was just appreciating his kind gestures.

“I just did this because it’s painful to see someone groaning in pain and there would be no help. No strings attached, I don’t love you oh!” He frowned.

“All the same, thanks.” Stella smiled.

****

Evening, 6:30pm.

. “Who’s it?”

“It’s Stella.” She replied.

Tobi opened the gate and took some steps backward. “Good evening.” Stella grinned.

Tobi shook his head and sighed. “What is it again?”

. “I came to appreciate what you did yesterday. Thanks so much, may God always bless you.” She prayed.

“You are welcome. Is that all?” He asked her.

“Since my mother died, I’ve found no joy rather than drinking, going out with friends. I’ve been down, I’ve hated ladies and everyone around me. Her death really hit me because I thought she wouldn’t die. She was the only precious jewel I could hold on to..” he continued weeping.

“It’s alright. But can you promise me one thing?”

“What?” He asked.

“That you are going to give up drinking.” She replied.

“I can’t… Don’t annoy me. Just get going…”

Stella exhaled deeply and stood up

CHECK THE NEXT PAGE FOR EPISODE 9

Episode 9

Stella looked up, staring at the name of the company,  David and Co again. She exhaled and smiled. “Does he bear David as well?”  She asked within herself and entered into the company

She wasn’t patient enough to be late that first day. She and Favour woke  up as early as possible because it would be their first day in the office.

She was the second person to get to the office. She met the secretary of the company, perhaps she came to complete a work she had been battling with. She greeted her and smiled.

“Sit down.” Folake, the secretary told her.

“Thanks.” She sat with her.

Temitope Williams had called Tobiloba and told him he’d be the one to interview her. Tobi was looking forward to seeing the lady he’d interview. From the look of things, it seemed the boss- Temitope Williams had concluded she’d be given a space in Tobi’s big office.

“No problem, once she’s not annoying.” Tobi concluded within himself.

Temitope Williams walked into the secretary’s office and was surprised seeing Stella. It was so early and punctual of her. Some would still come late despite the fact it was their first day at work. And, first impression lasts longer. “How are you Miss Stella?” He smiled and shook her.

“I’m good sir.. Good Morning.” She grinned and stood up. She was looking beautiful in her black skirt suite and her glasses. She rarely used her glasses but she knew it would supplement her beauty, so she wore it.

“Good morning sir.” He was still shaking her when he noticed a big truck parked outside.  “I’ll be right back.” He smiled and faced Folake. “Give me the Key to Tobi’s office.”

Stella smiled. “Tobi..” she recapitulated. She started imagining things as she sat down. ‘I should just see Tobi enters as the manager that I’d be the assistant too… it’s another Tobi.’ She grinned.

Temitope opened Tobi’s office wide open and walked outside. It was the guys that brought Stella’s facilities. Her big and neat table, as well as a rigid chair. “Follow me.” Temitope said to the guys that carried the table and walkes into the company.

They arranged the table and three chairs for her desk. Her own chair and that which can be used by two visitors stood before her.

Not quite long after, Tobiloba got to the company.

He was putting on a cream shirt and a black tie with a black trouser and pair of italian shoes. He adjusted his tie as usual and walked into the office, only to meet Stella at the secretary’s office.

****

Tobi halted. He wiped his face twice and gazed at the lady sitting near the secretary. “Stella.” He called her name out.

Stella was also appalled. She stood and stared at him. Exactly what she was thinking of came out to be a reality. ‘Is he the manager?’ She asked herself in a low tone.

‘Hope this lady isn’t my assistant.’ Tobi also wondered.

Folake cleared her throat, to bring them back to normal. “Mr Tobi, you couldn’t add Mrs or Miss to her name, you just said Stella just like that.” Folake stared at him.

“I’m sorry… was… don’t even know.” He hissed and flagged his hand. “Where’s the boss?”

Folake pointed to Temitope’s office and faced the computer back.

Seeing that Folake wasn’t looking at him any longer, he gave Stella a scary glance and shook his head, as if he was pitying her because she’d suffer. He walked away, heading to Temitope’s office.

****

“I’ve been expecting you, sit down.” Temitope said to Tobi.

“Yes sir.” Tobi smiled and sat down.

“You must have seen the lady out there, please interview her in your office. And, her table and facilities has been packed into your office because that place is big and you guys will be able to discuss and share thoughts well there.” He addressed him.

“Alright sir, I’ll go do that now.” He smiled and stood up.

Interview? I go show you today…  Tobi thought and walked out, back to the secretary’s office.

Is it right for Tobi to take this too personal ?

#Teampobs ✌

Previously On The One I Love.

Credit Temitope Daniel

. “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting. You came for the job?” She enquired again, though she knew.

“Yes.” The laides chorused..

“Another visitor is here… Mr Tolani.” He informed her.

“Let him in instantly.”

Tolani smiled and appreciated him. He approached her office slowly.

Stella and Favour stood up at once and glimpsed at each other. “The Madam, the C.E.O, I think.” Favour spoke.

“Miss Feyi right?” He asked and took few steos forward.

“Yes sir.” They both chorused.

Temitope Williams called Stella to know her state of health. Temitope ask her if she had no job.

“My friend and I are just jobless,

I can help you with that employment issue.” He replied her.

“Really? You can really do that?” Stella asked happily.

“It’s a thing that can be done easily. An assistant managing director for contracts is needed in this company. And your friend, she can be transferred to my second branch to head the Sales Department.” He explained.

Stella almost threw away her phone. “When should we come sir?” She asked.

“Since I just got you informed, come tomorrow morning.” He told her.

“I’m really grateful sir, I’m so grateful and will forever be grateful. Thanks so much sir.” She was appreciative.

“You’re welcome.” Temitope smiled and ended the call.

Tobiloba was the contracts managing director while Stella would be the new assistant to him.

CHECK THE PAGE FOR EPISODE 7

Episode 8

As luck would have it, Stella and Favour got the cleaning job canceled without delay. Another better choice had come, Stella was the happiest on earth, that day.

She was still jumping happily when Jumoke- a co-tenant in her mother’s house called her that there was a big problem. Her mother’s cough had grown worse. She also knew if it should  start, it was always disastrous and frightening.

She left the house with her only friend and rushed down to her mother’s place. She had no money on her to cater for her mother, how would she pay to the Doctor if she took her to the clinic for better treatment?

Her mind striked Tobiloba. At least, he might be able to help her out. If he wasn’t callous, he should be able to help seeing tears on her eyes. She decided to give it a try.

On getting to her mother’s place, she told Favour to get a cab, they’d take her to the hospital. She had been using palm oil and salt on it but it had a little control over it. Her cough had grown to the stage of vomiting blood.

She took her to the hospital right away,  without having any cash on her than the transport fare. She didn’t have Tobi’s mobile phone number likewise. She remembered she could collect it from his Grandma at home and from there, she’d visit his office.

*****

She called Tobiloba, crying profusely. Even Tobi the thick-skinned was moved. He told her he’d come and meet her at his Grandma’s place, she should wait for him. The last time he heard someone cry that much was the day his mother was dying in the hospital. She was just weeping that day, likewise him.

He had no mother any longer and knew how painful it was to loose a cherished mother. He promised himself he’d do anything to save her mother.

It was almost lunch time, an opportunity for Tobi to leave as fast as he could to visit his Grandma’s place. Immediately it was lunch time, he set out for his Grandma’s place instantly. He was praying within himself that nothing bad would happen to Stella’s mother. Though, it wasn’t that he loved her but anything that had to do with mothers, he did take it serious.

He arrived to the hospital with Stella. He made sure he settled part of the bill and promised to come with the remaining in the evening. He just went to the ATM to withdraw some cash.

“Stella followed him outside, she was just appreciating his kind gestures.

“I just did this because it’s painful to see someone groaning in pain and there would be no help. No strings attached, I don’t love you oh!” He frowned.

“All the same, thanks.” Stella smiled.

THE FOLLOWING DAY.

Stella walked into Temitope’s office with her friend, Fave. They were both looking smart and beautiful. “Please sit.” Temitope smiled and stretched his right hand, showing them the seats.

“Thanks.” The ladies chorused and sat down.

“So, how’s your health now?” Temitope was smiling.

Stella chuckled. “I’m now alright.”

“Don’t mind me, I just like being troublesome.” He grinned. “Yeah.

“Let me see your credentials.” Temitope stretched his right hand forward to receive the credentials.

Favour and Stella handed the credentials to him and patiently waited for him to speak.

“This is great!” He eventually spoke, smiling.

“Thanks sir.” Stella grinned.

“This is not an issue of thanks, they are both great.” He smiled.

Stella and Fave kept smiling.

“Because I don’t want to be sentimental, come for your interview tomorrow, Stella. And you… Fave.” He said.

“Alright, no problem.” Stella said.

****

Evening, 6:30pm.

Stella knocked at Tobi’s gate softly and patiently waited for his response. She was smiling as she awaited his presence. She prayed she wouldn’t be scolded for coming to his house that evening.

He finally came out of the house. “Who’s it?” He enquired, drawing closer to the gate.

“It’s Stella.” She replied.

Tobi opened the gate and took some steps backward. “Good evening.” Stella grinned.

Tobi shook his head and sighed. “What is it again?”

Tobi was already dressed, he had his car key in his hands. It seemed as if he was ready to go out. “I came to appreciate what you did yesterday. Thanks so much, may God always bless you.” She prayed.

“You are welcome. Is that all?” He asked her.

“Yes but… where are you going to by this time?” She enquired.

“And does it in any way concern you? Its my life, not yours!” He exclaimed.

“I’m sorry, just wish you to be safe. And, I was given a job in a company today, I was told to come for interview tomorrow.” Stella told him.

“That’s an achievement… though I heard same thing happened in our office today.” He hissed.

“Really?” Stella smiled.

Tobi gave her a angry look.

Stella took her eyes off him and dipped her hand into her handbag. “I brought you this..” She handed a mouth organ over to him.

Tobi was shocked. “Have you ever seen the picture before?” He asked her.

“Picture? What picture?” She questioned.

“So it means you’ve never seen it, how come you know I love mouth organ?”

“I just bought it.” She said, smiling.

“Come right in.” Tobi lead the way, Stella was still holding the organ.

Both entered while Tobi offered her a seat. He also sat down, looking moody. He stood again and walked to the shelf, he picked up the picture and gave it to Stella.

“Let me tell you what happened… That picture is the picture of where my parents and I took a group photograph and as you can see, I was holding a mouth organ. That day was the day my mother bought me a mouth organ as my birthday gift and took picture with me, including my father…” he paused,  already going emotional.

He sniffed and continued. “That was the first and last day there was unity, peace and joy between my parents before my mother eventually died of cancer.” He started weeping.

“I’m deeply sorry I brought this to remind you of the past. I’m deeply sorry.” Stella also felt like crying.

“No, not that. I was going to the joint to drink as usual when you knocked but with this mouth organ you brought, I won’t go anywhere again.”

Stella felt like asking more questions on the issue of his parents but didn’t want to bring his pasts to his memory again. “Im really sorry.” She repeated.

“Since my mother died, I’ve found no joy rather than drinking, going out with friends. I’ve been down, I’ve hated ladies and everyone around me. Her death really hit me because I thought she wouldn’t die. She was the only precious jewel I could hold on to..” he continued weeping.

“It’s alright. But can you promise me one thing?”

“What?” He asked.

“That you are going to give up drinking.” She replied.

“I can’t… Don’t annoy me. Just get going…”

Stella exhaled deeply and stood up

Lets wait and see the next episode , your comments are welcome too

#Teampobs ✌