Chapter 6: Heart On Edge
531 Words
I was still surprised about Opeyemi’s attitude. The way she had replied to me yesterday and told me not to bother her… it didn’t make sense. As far as I knew, I hadn’t offended her or any of her close friends. God abeg ooo… ahhhh.
It was 7 am, and I still hadn’t heard from Ope. She should have been in the hostel by now, since we had lectures at 9 am.
As I was still thinking about it, the door opened, and Ope came in. She greeted me, but the energy was different — colder, distant. I didn’t let it bother me too much, though. I focused on my own space and started preparing for class.
After showering and getting ready, I checked the time. 8:15 am. I walked over to her room.
“Ope, I’m leaving for lecture now,” I said.
She didn’t even look at me. “Okay, I’ll join you.”
I shrugged and went on my way.
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As I was about to enter the lecture room, I spotted Doyin laughing with his friend. My chest tightened — embarrassed, a little furious, but I kept my composure. I didn’t acknowledge him. I walked past and went straight to my seat.
Lecture ended, and as I was leaving, Doyin came toward me and gently held my hands.
“Wura… now I know you’re mad at me, but you don’t have to act like you don’t know me. I’m sorry. There was no light yesterday, and nowhere to charge my phone. I’m really sorry.”
I looked at him and said, “I know you’re lying, but it’s all good.”
’Mabinusimi Wuraolami…’ Hearing him call me that in a soft, pampering voice melted my soul. I couldn’t help but blush and smile.
Out of nowhere, Ope tapped Doyin on the shoulder. “I want to see you,” she said casually. My heart sank. When did all this start? I felt my anger rise, but I forced myself to act like it didn’t bother me.
I returned to my hostel and tried to be by myself. A few minutes later, Ope came in, as usual without greeting me — and I didn’t greet her either.
I put on my earbuds, connected to my phone, and played Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish, letting the music calm my racing thoughts.
Just then, my phone beeped. It was a message from Doyin — apologizing again and asking if I’d be free.
I replied that I was.
“Great,” he responded. “Let’s meet Sunday evening.”
I smiled. Alright… Sunday evening. Let’s see how this goes.
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When I set my phone down, part of me couldn't stop thinking about Opeyemi. Why was she acting like that lately? Was it jealousy...or something else I didn't know?
I shook my head again, forcing myself to think about Doyin's messages instead. No - here I am again, overthinking. Just sit back and enjoy this. He really wants to spend time with me.
But when I smiled, a small knot of unease tightened in my chest. Something about Ope's behavior today told me that it wasn't going to be that simple.
- Writer
