CHAPTER ONE
Beauty is not always in the eyes of the beholder but if you disagree, what if the beholder has eyes problem? What if the beholder is born in a away that they couldn't see beauty and understand? Maybe, just like some people are born with disorder structures and they are not like complete humans, what if someone is not born with the ability to recognize and appreciate beauty?
That rain that come down in heavy liquid as if the heavens couldn't control any amount and no liquid is left for the next drop could be mirrored as my tears in the middle of a relationship with an ideal beautiful lady. Stood I at the edge of the relationship staring out at the crashing waves beneath it and could pretend to be alright. Going back was not possible and going further, a red traffic was shown. The sound of "This is the only angel on earth" keeps me matching the serpents in the relationship. I see reasons to love and go further more than to withdraw and exit when I was still with little strength. Ten thousand would be her errors but a single good will buy a new her. Maybe, in her heart blessed is the new day another monkey was born on this earth. Tears streamed down my face blurring the words on the first day I saw her, "You are the lost but found angel". This is the story of myself when I decided to fall in love for the first time after avoiding relationship for years so that I escape love imprisonment and challenges. This was the story of "Tears of a Late Lover".
That type of morning rain fall and when it stops at once as if it wants to add again but then leaving the weather smiling and making even the poor to feel rich. I set to travel to Abuja to start my college. I needed no angel to tell me that have a nice journey because the weather alone predicted a nice journey. If I could see a truck coming, I could held that the driver understands the fact about the weather and he could maintain the protocol. As I came out of my compound and stand beside the road, I stopped a taxi driver who carried me to the motor park. "Bring him here, this is a vehicle for Abuja travelers " the conductor in the park directed and we followed. Before I entered in the vehicle, I could spot a beautiful and charming image inside already though the view was still blurring and I couldn't pass a final judgment. While I struggled to enter, like the moment thousands of eyes are on you on the stage and as stage flights could lead you do what you haven't planned and leave the planned, that moment you could fall on the stage but still be thinking you are standing because of thousand of eyes on you and you could shiver uncontrollably. Christabel's two eyes on me worth thousand of eyes and got me thinking I'm at a wrong place and I need someone to help me out. Yes, the reality was there. A beautiful soul exudes a radiating aura of grace and elegance. She has a captivating smile that lights up her face and a kind welcoming spirit that draws people towards her which I was one. Her eyes are like windows to her soul, sparkling with intelligence, warmth, and compassion. Yes, I could say the eyes sparkle when she looks into your eyes. Her natural hair is lush and shiny, framing her face in a way that accentuates her natural beauty.
Her posture in the car was poised and confident, displaying a graceful and alluring silhouette. She moves for me to get a space and sit down with grace and poise, like a dancer gliding across a stage. Every movement she makes was intentional and graceful like a delicate swan on a peaceful lake.
Her style was impeccable, showcasing her unique sense of fashion and individuality. Her taste was refined, and she carries herself with sophistication and class. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder so they said but I tell you, any beholder that will pass without admiring Christabel's beauty has problem in their eyes.
Beyond her physical appearance, I couldn't explain what is inside at the moment but could imagine a complete beauty.
When she allowed me to sit, she extended a hand and said "hello". I confidently complied. Sooner than later, our vehicle set off.
As we sat closer to each other in the vehicle traveling to Abuja, I couldn't stop feeling grateful for the peacefulness of the journey. At this point, I regain my confidence fully and could smile broadly. The only thing that could have made it better was the company of the beautiful lady sitting next to me.
Yes, she began a conversation and I confidently joined. We chatted and laughed, little did I know our conversation turned to the topic of love. She asked me if I believed in love at first sight, and I couldn't stop smiling. "I hate someone who expresses love to me at the first moment of seeing me?" I told her that I did believe in it, but not in the way it is often portrayed in movies and novels. I explained further, something must move the heart to fall in love; something must grasp one attention and calls one to come closer. I told her that there are some beauties even if you are married, you will stop and appreciate. Even if you are driving on a very high frequency, once your eyes glances such beauties, you must stop else you miss control. She laughed.
I explained more, love at first sight is more of an intense connection or chemistry between two people. It's that feeling of familiarity and understanding that you get with someone, even if you've just met them.
She nodded smilingly taking in my words before sharing her own thoughts on the matter. She continued that she believed in love at first sight as well, though she also believed that love takes time and effort to truly grow and develop. Love is not just a momentary feeling, but rather a continuous choice to understand, support, and care for someone, I added.
As we talk futher, we also shared our own experiences and future hopes. It was refreshing to have such an open and honest conversation with her, especially since we had just met.
I couldn't hold my joy but feel a strong connection with her, and as the bus keeps jumping, allowing me to robe my body with hers, I realized that love may have indeed found me on this journey.
We continued to talk for hours and before we knew it, the bus had arrived at our destination.
It was a beautiful journey, and we had been chatting for hours through out. As every passenger begins to find their last destination, I didn't want the conversation to end.
I looked at Christabel with a smile and said, "I've loved talking to you through out the journey. Would you like we continue this conversation sometime soon? Maybe over coffee or a walk?" Her eyes lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. Then, I asked, "May I have your number so we can plan something?" She handed over her phone and we exchanged numbers. As we exchanged digits, our fingers touched and I could felt a spark of love. "Would you like to grab coffee this weekend?" I asked, Christabel smiled and replied, "I'd love to!" As we parted ways, I felt elated and couldn't wait to see that day.
As I reached home and have taken a good care of myself, I gave her a call as I couldn't wait so long. "Hello! Is this Christabel?"
"Yes, it's me. Who's this please?" She connected and I continued.
"Hi, this is Master Barnabas. How are you, my dear?"
Christabel: Oh, hi Master B, I'm doing well. How about you?
Me: I'm great, thank you. By the way, how was your journey back home?
Chritabel: Oh, it was lovely. The weather was perfect and the roads were clear, so it was a smooth ride.
Me: That's great to hear, your beauty held the burning African sun to stand muted today. I was a bit worried about you going alone.
Christabel: Aww, that's so sweet of you. But you shouldn't have worried, I'm more than 18.
Me: I'm sure you are and I'm sure you are smarter but a real husband has to show care.
Christabel: (laughs) Thank you. You always know how to make me smile but you must remember I'm not your wife and you not my husband.
Me: As long as I can make a Lady like you smile with white teeth like snow opening her sparkling eyes, my day is complete. So, did you happen to think of me during your journey?
Christabel: Of course, I did! I was missing you terribly. Your stories couldn't escape my horizon.
Me: (with love in voice) Oh God! We missed you too, dear.
Christabel: We missed you? You meant you and who please.
Me: My head, eyes, ears and mouth, my shoulders,chest and hands. My west down to my toes, we missed you.
Christabel: (laughs mightily) Stop! Stop! Please, just calm down.
Me: And even if I calm down, the air I breathe will go ahead.
Chritabel: Oh, absolutely! I can't wait to see you and spend time with you again.
Me: (smiling) Me I can wait to see you but only my heart can't wait though. I'm counting down the days until we can be together again. Until then, stay safe and take care, my dear.
Chritabel: I will. And thank you for checking up on me. It means a lot.
Me: Always, my dear. Have a good night and sweet dreams.
Chritabel: You too. Goodnight.
Me: Goodnight, my love! I continued alone... bittersweet: I miss her so much. Hearing her voice again brought back all the memories and feelings that I couldn't hold. I wonder if she knows how much my poor heart moves for her. That voice can cure Corona Virus, can cure HIV; a voice that can heal all kinds of virus. Sweet melody in the soft air; keep echoing in my brain every time I hear it. A voice that can send a man to go and withdraw his money himself, my heart skips a beat and I can't hold but smile. Inner thoughts: But I can't tell her that. I think I'm rushing too much. I can't risk ruining our friendship or scaring her away. Oh Daddy in heaven! (whispers) I wish I could tell her how much I love her. How much I want to be with her and make her happy.
But she deserves someone who can give her everything and I'm afraid I'm not that person. Well, (smiles sadly) I guess I'll just have to keep these feelings to myself and continue to be there for her as a friend. Even though it breaks my heart every time I see her with someone else but as long as she's happy, that's all that matters. Oh! (whispers) I love you, my dear. I hope she knows. I hope she can feel it through the phone, even just a little bit. Because I love her more than words could ever express.
CHAPTER TWO
Night overcame the sun completely; Abuja could now rest noise and nature calls for bed time.
In the realm of dreams, where reality bends and love transcends, I found myself standing beneath a starlit sky, surrounded by the gentle whispers of leaves and the soft rustle of flowers and some in my hands. There I met my dearly Christabel; her presence as ethereal as the moonlight that bathed the landscape very early.
"Christabel my queen," I whispered my voice barely audible over the beating of my heart. "You shine brighter than any star in this celestial canvas."
She smiled; her lips curving like the petals of a rose. Your words are as sweet as the morning dew," she replied, her voice a melody that harmonized with the crickets' serenade. I continued, "your breath must have sounded like a rising gospel music.
As we walked through the dreamlike garden, every step felt like a dance, every word a promise of forever. "Christabel, from the moment I saw you, my joints told me you were the one I have been searching for years," I confessed, the truth spilling from my lips like a river.
"Your eyes speak of a love so pure," she said, her gaze locking onto mine. "I feel it too, a connection that defies the boundaries of dreams."
The night blooming flowers swayed in agreement, their fragrance filling the air as we walked hand in hand around. "In your presence, time stands still," I told her, "and the world becomes a place of endless wonders."
"With you, my love, every moment is a gift, every moment is a blessing" she replied and her fingers intertwining with mine. "I feel seen, heard, and understood in ways I never thought possible."
As the dream uncovered, our words became a symphony of affection, each note resonating deep within our souls. "You're the melody that fills my heart with joy," I said, "the rhythm that makes me whole. You are the machine that pumps my blood everyday, the only voice that can wake me up when I will test death for the first time."
"And you're the harmony that completes me, in you I'm made" Christabel responded, her voice a gentle breeze that soothed my very being. "Together, our love creates a symphony that echoes through eternity."
In this dream, our love knew no bounds. It was a love that could move mountains, calm storms, and bring light to the darkest corners of the world. "Christabel, I love you more than words can say," I whispered, my heart overflowing with emotion.
"I love you greater," she replied and her voice a soft whisper that carried the weight of a thousand promises. "In your arms, I've found my forever home."
As the dream began to fade, I held onto the moment, cherishing every second with Christabel. Though the dream may have ended, the love we shared remains, a beacon of hope and devotion that guides me through the waking world.
In the silence that followed, I realized that sometimes, the most profound loves are those that transcend reality, existing in the realm of dreams, where the heart can speak freely and love can flourish without bounds.
And so, Christabel, though you may not be for me but your love has left an indelible mark in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and magic that love can bring.
Oh this feeling! I placed my hands across her shoulders and had started moving my mouth closer to her in other to kiss her. I came very closer to that pink lips and could smell her sweet breath. Theb, I slowly opened my eyes wishing to go back and continue although, the warmth of the dream lingered, and a gentle smile spread across my face. The memory of Christabel's smile, her laughter, and our tender moments still danced in my mind. Though the dream had faded, its essence remained, leaving me with a sense of peace and contentment.
I became weak and lay there for a moment, basking in the afterglow of the dream. The smile on my face felt like a reflection of the joy Christabel had brought into my dream world. As I sat up, I couldn't help but wonder if this feeling was a glimpse of something more profound – a reminder that love, in all its forms, has the power to touch our hearts and leave a lasting impact.
Then I observed the morning light streaming through the window seemed to echo the brightness of Christabel's presence in my dream. I could say that the best love can only be found in a dream world.
As I began my day, the smile remained, a subtle reminder of the dream's magic. It was as if Christabel's love had left an imprint in my heart, one that would stay with me long after the dream faded into memory.
For years, I have been cautious, avoiding the entanglements of love. The fear of heartbreak, disagreements, and the vulnerability that came with loving someone else had kept me at bay. Sometimes, I would jokingly say, the beauty ones are not yet born so I must wait for them. I convinced myself that single life was safer, that independence was the key to happiness. As long as I'm doing fine, I will be happy.
But then, the result had changed suddenly, Christabel entered my life, and everything shifted. Her appearance was like a gentle breeze on a summer day, bringing with it a sense of calm and tranquility. I found myself drawn to her beauty, her laughter, and her kind appearance.
At first, I tried to let off the feelings, telling myself it was just a passing infatuation. But as I couldn't stop thinking about her, I realized that my feelings ran deeper. Christabel's beauty completely captivated me in the way that I couldn't imagine the previous me.
For the first time in years, I felt my defenses crumbling. The walls I'd built around my heart began to crack, and I found myself falling, deeply and irrevocably in love with Christabel.
This must be ironic. After years of avoiding love, I suddenly found myself head over heels for someone's daughter and couldn't breath without thinking about her. Christabel's appearance in my life felt like a ray of sunshine, illuminating everything and making me feel alive.
As I reflect on my past, I realize that my fear of love was rooted in the fear of getting hurt and the expenses in relationship. But Christabel, I concluded having a peaceful home with her with even four kids. That sounds funny but what if I'm only but dreaming? What if I stand to get the worse heart break ever later. I imagine that her love is like a safe heaven, a place where I can be myself without fear of judgment. With Christabel, I imagime I could feel seen, heard, and understood in ways I never thought possible. She's the missing piece I never knew I needed, the one who would make my heart sing and my soul soar.
I know that relationship takes work and there will be challenges ahead. But I'm willing to face them now to navigate the ups and downs, because the love I feel for Christabel is worth fighting for.
In her eyes, I see a future filled with hope, laughter, and adventure. For the first time in years, I feel like I'm ready to take the leap, to embrace love and all its complexities, because Christabel's appearance makes it feel worth it.
CHAPTER THREE
It was in the evening, the sun sets to rest, casting a warm and golden hue over the city of Abuja as I made my way to the luxurious hotel where I was to meet my beloved Christabel. My heart could feel beating; pumping blood like the wave of an ocean, beating with anticipation, each step bringing me closer to the moment I had been waiting for. I had meticulously and technically planned every detail of this evening meeting with Christabel, from the elegant setting to the delicious food that was going to be served to us. The company of the woman who had captured my heart and soul got me to plan a lot.
As I walked into the grand lobby of the hotel, my eyes scanned the room, eagerly searching for her familiar face. I could feel the excitement building up inside me, tinged with a touch of nervousness. After all, this was not just any date, but rather a special occasion for me to celebrate our meeting again and the beautiful journey we had shared together.
As my eyes could go viral for a search , I spotted her, standing by the fireplace in a gorgeous crimson dress that accentuated her curves. Her hair was cascading down her shoulders in soft waves, and her eyes sparkled with excitement and love. My heart skipped a beat as I took in her beauty, her mere presence filling me with a sense of joy and contentment.
I approached her and I observed a smile spread across her lips and she took my hand in hers, the warmth of her touch seeping into my very being leaving my soul to imagination. "You look absolutely charming," I whispered, my words laced with admiration and adoration.
She blushed; her cheeks turning a rosy shade, and replied, "As do you, my dear." Her eyes met mine, and in that moment, the world faded away, leaving only the two of us.
Together, we gently walked towards the private dining area that I had reserved for us. The room was adorned with soft candlelight, casting a romantic glow over the table set with the finest china and crystal glasses. The ambience was perfect, reflecting the depth of my love for Christabel which I will shortly open up.
As we settled into our seats, I could marvel at how fortunate I was to have her in my presence again. She was really beautiful on the outside and I concluded must be her heart, sharp mind, and gentle soul originated from the Almighty.
As we dined on the delectable cuisine and sipped on fine wine, our conversation keeps going effortlessly, each word filled with love and affection. We reminisced about our journey, the moment we planned for a date and all the special moments we had shared ever since on phone calls. With every passing moment, my love for her only grew bigger and I couldn't wait to tell her how much I love her.
After our meal, we took a stroll in the hotel's lush garden, the moonlight illuminating our path. The air was filled with the fragrance of blooming flowers, and the sound of music played by a nearby band added to the enchanting atmosphere. We stopped by a picturesque fountain, and as we gazed at the stars above, I took her hands in mine.
"Christabel, I love you, I have been waiting for this moment for so long," I said, my voice quivering with emotion. "You appeared to be my everything and I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy as my wife. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"
There was some silence in the air, tears formed up in her eyes, and she released her hand and started going angrily, her lips trembling with sadness. I followed her calling and begging her if I have offended her. I tried holding her hand but she pushed me away going outside the hotel fence. I rushed and blocked her but she rather pushed me very mightily and got her way out. My phone fell on group and before I could carry it up and come after her, she had already entered a taxi and the driver moved away.
I stood alone helplessly; the echoes of Christabel's rejection still circulating in my mind. The dream which had felt like truth just hours before, now felt like a distant memory, tainted by the harsh reality of her action. I couldn't shake off the feeling of rejection, of not being enough. The green lights she'd given me throughout now seemed like a mirage, leading me to believe that we were on the same page.
I thought back to the moments we'd shared, the laughter, the adventures, and the romantic conversations. Had I misread everything? Were the signals I'd thought were so clear just figments of my imagination?
The weight of disappointment settled in, my fear of rejection comes true like a heavy fog that refused to lift. I felt lost, unsure of what to do next. What mistake have I made like this? Instead of keeping her as a good friend, I rushed and spoiled everything. Why? Why? But do I have no chance to fall in love? Who shall blame me for falling in love? What sin have I committed? No! No! This is why I have been avoiding relationship in my soul but I now learn that as long as you live, nature most lead you.
Thousand of questions swirled in my head but the answers remained elusive. All I knew was that I was left standing alone in this environment, holding onto the shattered pieces of my heart.
The city of Abuja outside seemed to move on, unaware of the turmoil brewing inside me. I felt like I was stuck in a time warp, reliving the moments leading up to the proposal, replaying what I'd said, what she'd said, and what could've been done differently.
The pain of rejection was a heavy burden to bear. It was as if the rug had been pulled from under my feet, leaving me stumbling to find my balance.
I managed to enter a taxi and go home. As the night wore on, the tears I'd been holding back finally broke free. I let them flow heavily, allowing myself to feel the depth of my emotions. The pain was real, and it was okay to acknowledge it.
In the midst of this heartbreak, I knew I had a choice to make. I could let the rejection define me, or I could use it as an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to heal.
The journey ahead would be difficult, but I knew I had to take the first step. I had to face the pain, process it, and slowly begin to rebuild. The love I had for Christabel wouldn't disappear overnight, but with time, I hoped to find closure and perhaps, a new beginning. Now, I became apologetic that I'm sorry for trying to disappoint the singles by finding a love. Now, if any love finds me, I will find my way.
I couldn't sleep till 2am doing nothing but thinking about Christabel's reaction. I could guess that I started sleeping around 3am but could still feel the previous incidence. A call from Christabel came
unexpectedly. I stood up and carried my phone and could only gaze shockingly. Her words cut deeply pointing out the impulsive nature of my proposal. "You jumped straight to marriage without taking the time to truly know me," she said, her voice laced with frustration and disappointment. I listened, feeling a mix of defensiveness and regret. She was right; I had let my emotions guide me, perhaps without considering the depth of our relationship. "I guess I got ahead of myself," I admitted, trying to acknowledge her concerns. But then, something shifted in her tone. "Despite all these, I have to admit... I love you too," she said, her voice softer now. Those words, spoken in the dead of night, brought a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, we could work through this together.
"I love you too," I replied, feeling a sense of relief and gratitude but still not believing that I'm actually making a call with her. "I'm willing to take things slower, to get to know you better, and to build a foundation for our future." She said good night and ended her call, I felt I'm going to wake up but I was in the ideal world rather than a dream one. As I tried to fall deep in imagination, a text entered my phone, "Call me tomorrow please. I have an important something to tell you".
The light had slowly defeated the darkness and it was called a daybreak. I stepped out of my hostel, the early morning sun casting a warm glow over the campus. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of blooming flowers on campus and the distant hum of students rushing to their morning lectures. I took a deep breath, feeling invigorated and ready to tackle the day activities. As I walked to school, my mind wandered to Christabel. I couldn't wait to call her later and continue our conversation from the previous night. But for now, I had to focus on my studies.
Upon arriving at school, I headed straight to the lecture hall. But before the lecture began, I realized I needed some materials for our group project. I remembered that there was a labor market nearby where students often sold their services, including photocopying and binding.
I hastened my way to the market and was greeted by a bustling atmosphere. Students were busy typing away on their laptops, while others were photocopying notes and binding books. I approached a shop and was greeted by a friendly lady with a bright smile although Christabel smile was still the best.
"Good morning, sir! How can I help you?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm, maybe, a way of attracting customers.
"Good morning," I replied. "I'm looking for someone to help me with some photocopying materials of EPS GST. I have been told I can get in any shop at the labor market here. Do you offer those services?"
"Yes, we do!" she replied. "My name is Josephine, by the way. What do you need help with?"
I explained my requirements, and Josephine efficiently got to work. She was quick and accurate. I was impressed by her professionalism and kindness.
As she worked, we chatted about students reading habits, how we read only when we have a test to write and shared some laughs. I learned that she was a student herself, working part-time to support her school fees. Her dedication and work ethic inspired me.
When she finished, I thanked her and paid for her services but to my greatest surprise, she refused to take the amount. "You're a student, just like me," she said with a smile. "Consider it a discount."
I was touched by her kindness and generosity. "Thank you so much, Josephine," I said, feeling grateful. "You're not only good at your job, but you're also a wonderful person."
Josephine smiled and nodded. "We're all in this together, right? Good luck with your materials"
As I walked back to my lecture, I couldn't stop but feel a sense of appreciation for Josephine. She had not only helped me with my materials but had also brightened my day with her kindness.
During the lecture, I couldn't stop thinking about Christabel and our conversation. I decided to call her during the break and see how she was doing.
When I called, I was pressed number busy. I tried calling for the second time, number busy again. At this moment, imagination full my brain.