Mfon and Teye began to push their boxes to the center of the room, just as I ordered them to do. It was the easiest work their tiny hands could do.

“Mummy why are we packing?” Teye asked.

“The day after tomorrow, we will be leaving for the mainland.” I said, folding the clothes into a basket.

“but mummy our school is on the Island.” Mfon said.

I nodded silently.

“yes I know. no more questions, let’s start packing. you both should gather all your clothes, a truck will be here to start packing.”

They continued to push the drawers and their boxes with all their might.

After few moments, the kids paused.

“mommy we are tired.” Mfon said weakly, giving a childish attitude.

“me too mummy.” Teye said.

“Let’s all rest a bit.”

Teye laughed and blew an exaggerated kiss back.

Mfon and I joined in the laugh, it was a meaningless laugh, Teye made us happy.

My laughter subsided, but a wistful smile was left on my face and then we started singing. And then we had dinner.

That evening, we piled up the corridor with packed properties that we were going to take to our new home at Surulere.

******

The next morning was hectic.

We woke up tired and stressed, I made breakfast for the kids and drove them quietly to school.

As they alighted from the car, I heard a car door close just by my side, my eyes snapped open.

A masculine scent of a familiar perfume hit me hard on the nose, it was irritating as I felt like puking.

I had a feeling that it must be someone very familiar, but I was afraid to look, I was trying to hide my pregnancy.

“Baby.” He called out huskily.

I didn’t turn, I sat comfortably on my car seat and fastened the seat belt.

“please wait! Ekom I beg you, just listen to me.” suddenly I looked up, our eyes connecting. He was right in front of the car, kneeling down. parents who came to drop their kids stood to watch, passers by stood to watch.

I wanted to run him over. Kill him and bear the consequences.

“Just listen to me baby please.” He lifted his hand waving at me, but I didn’t return the gesture.

“look at me Ekom, just look at me.” He yelled in a baritone voice.”

He looked like he had a lot to say to me. His eyes were red, he was sweating like a full bucket of water was thrown at him.

I was surprised he couldn’t feel the weight of my angry stare, he was still there, not afraid. But I started the car immediately and zoomed off speedily.

I wasn’t sure if he drove after me, but I drove straight to Surulere, where I rented my new house.

To be continued…..