THE DISTANCE BETWEEN US

CHAPTER ONE: As days,weeks,months and years pass by so did max’s life,with thoughts and questions running through his mind,suicidal thoughts,deep into the misery of his own life. Max is a 23 year old afro American boy, who lives in Lagos,Nigeria he was born and raised in New York, but at age five his parents were forcefully relocated back to Lagos where max met his best friend Sarah although Sarah was bashful he never let that stop him from approaching her.Max was always confident and always stepping up for her. Sarah who lived some few streets from max was very shy but beautiful with tired eyes and she also had a very soft skin texture,chocolate in complexion and has very deep dimples.Max and Sarah were seven when they met each, they were so close that both their parent were fond of teasing each other with max mum always calling Sarahs mum ofin mi which means my in-law in the Yoruba dialect their bond was so strong that they completed the same elementary school but as time goes by things begin to unfold as they embark on thier adventure as friends who seek to want more as the days go by. CHAPTER TWO On September 18th 2011 max and Sarah were admitted to the same high school in Lagos called redeemed high school Sarah and max were in different classes, while max was already hitting adolescents with a husky voice he approaches Sarah and says: Whats up Sarah how was the holidays I really missed you we didn’t do much this time we only went for bowling once and that was all, what did you do his holiday? Sarah flattered by his husky voice replied: i didn’t do much too max i was just looking forward to getting in high school and here we are Sarah chuckles while she grabs max hands and they went to the canteen together where Sarah ordered for a local dish called puff puff which is a snack made out of fried dough and Zobo which is local drink made out of dried hibiscus leaves, Max also ordered for same as it was cheaper and more satisfying for students. They both ate and reminisce over the things they did during their childhood as max teases Sarah about when her mum flogged her for playing in the rain saying; Max: but Sarah you know you were very stubborn as a child he chuckled Sarah: I wasn’t stubborn i just didn’t like my mum being too hard on me she said with a straight face Max remembering the fact that Sarah’s dad passed away while she was quite young he grabs her closer and consoles her, they finished their snacks and headed back to class. CHAPTER THREE The weekends came and max already being a lover of football went to train with his peers, max had made friends in school and they Go for football training every Saturday mornings when one of max’s friend Femi approached him teasingly and said ‘Lover boy’ with a hard laugh before max could beat the allegations the whole team were calling him ‘Lover boy’ and he got offended and left the football pitch yelling ‘Sarah and i are just friends’ walking back home with a frown on his face. When he got home his mum had already prepared moi moi ( a steamed or boiled bean pudding made from a mixture of washed and peeled beans and onions, fresh red peppers, spices, and often fish, eggs, and or crayfish.) which was his favorite meals during the weekends, with a frown on his face he rejected the food and rushed up to his room , his mum came up and asked him saying :my boy whats wrong? He replied: mummy they always tease me about me and Sarah being together in school. With a smile on her face she said but baby thats a good thing he chuckled and she told him to eat his food and not worry about it he removed his clothes and ate his food. CHAPTER FOUR Monday came and max and Sarah decided not to go to school but instead the had other plans for them selves when Sarah arrived max’s house her cologne was all over his room with max rushing to hug her tightly squeezing her succulent body max told her: I’ve already told Femi to cover up for us today, i just want us to watch the movies and there are things i want to tell you with Sarah being excited and also confused she said: Ok, then they proceed to max’s room and she laid on the bed with her uniform and max served her a chill orange juice drink which was her favorite with some popcorn’s although Sarah and max had already agreed that their friendship will be platonic max and Sarah secretly had feelings for each-other. They both cuddled and watched movies and had a good time, it was approaching 4pm when they normally close from school. so Sarah arranged her squeezed clothes from the cuddles and gave max a peck the went back home with a huge smile on her face, while max was also surprised by the peck he told her: hope you had good time i will see you later and she said Ok with with a chuckle and she immediately rushed home before max’s mum will meet them. CHAPTER FIVE After what had happened on Monday max wen to school to tell his best friend what had happened yesterday with a smile on his face he said to Femi: bro i was with Sarah yesterday and we watched my favorite movie together and they laughed and Femi asked him teasingly: did you guys kiss? Max replied: ewww no we didn’t, we just cuddled and watched movies then max proceeds to tell Femi saying: Guy I really like her i think we could be more than friends, Femi replied saying i think that will be too early don’t tell her yet, max replied: okay i know what to do i wont tell her yet but i will make gestures so she will know how i feel. During classes that day max’s teacher asked him why he wasn’t in school yesterday the he told him: sorry sir i just had a slight fever yesterday so I wasn’t able to come. And his teacher told him: okay then come to my office after school is done today and max replied:okay sir. After school was done for the day max immediately rushed to Sarah’s class so he could escort her home and avoid meeting his form teacher mr Gbenga. On their way home they were very excited cos it was a Friday and the next day was Saturday max was happy cos Sarah often comes over during the weekends to help out with stuffs then she also stays there for sometime before going home and max had it in mind to tell her about how he feels tomorrow. When they got to their neighborhood max hugged Sarah happily saying see you tomorrow with a large statement of excitement all over his face. CHAPTER SIX Saturday morning came and max does his regular chores and immediately dashes off to the football field to play football, he met his friend Femi and told him; guy I’m going to ask Sarah out today I’ve got it all planned out with a smile on his face, max then proceeds to score two goals during the game feeling all energetic. Max got home and flings his boots and immediately rushes to the shower to take his bath and wait for Sarah, while his mom was preparing their normal Saturday dish which moi moi and pap(any soft or semiliquid food, such as bread softened with milk, esp for babies or invalids) which was their favorite on Saturday cos pap has a semi sedative that makes one sleeps for a long time and also rest. So fee minutes goes by and Sarah steps in with a basket of food as she normally does, whenever she comes her mum always gives her food to bring to max’s house. She greets max’s mum: good morning Mrs Bukola max’s mum said morning my dear how are you doing how is your mummy and she responds by saying; am done fine Ma they both proceeds to max’s room with a dash. They both ate, drank, watched movies had a good time. Sarah went to the kitchen help Mrs Bukola max saw this as the perfect time to rehearse his lines and all so he said to himself while sitting on his bed, nervously fidgeting with his hands. He looks determined yet anxious. MAX (whispering) Alright, Max, you can do this. Just be honest and speak from the heart. Max takes a deep breath and starts rehearsing his words. MAX (to himself) Sarah, words cannot fully express the depth of my feelings for you. Every moment spent with you is cherished, and every second away from you feels like an eternity. You are the light that brightens up my days, and the warmth that soothes my soul. Max takes a moment to compose himself. He looks at a picture of him and Sarah on his bedside table their happy faces frozen in time. MAX (whispering) Sarah, I promise to always be there for you, through the highs and lows. I want to be the person you lean on, and the one who brings a smile to your face, even on the toughest of days. You are my everything, and I can't imagine my life without you. While Sarah finished from the kitchen she went bath into max’s room, and she noticed the nervousness on max’s face so she asked him whats wrong with a smile on her face, max responded by saying: nothing much but there’s something i want to tell you with the nervousness on his face he began to talk to express his feelings saying: Sarah, words cannot fully express the depth of my feelings for you. Every moment spent with you is cherished, and every second away from you feels like an eternity. You are the light that brightens up my days, and the warmth that soothes my soul. Sarah, I promise to always be there for you, through the highs and lows. I want to be the person you lean on, and the one who brings a smile to your face, even on the toughest of days. You are my everything, and I can't imagine my life without you, Sarah, I promise to always be there for you, through the highs and lows. I want to be the person you lean on, and the one who brings a smile to your face, even on the toughest of days. You are my everything, and I can't imagine my life without you. Max closes his eyes, the weight of his emotions overwhelming but comforting at the same time. MAX (sincerely) Sarah, I love you with all my heart. And if you'll have me, I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you be mine? Max ended the conversation with that Sarah was too stunned to speak. Sarah sits on her couch, a mix of surprise and anticipation on her face. She clutches a photo of Max and her, his words resonating in her mind. She says; Wow, I never expected this... Max, you've caught me off guard. Sarah takes a moment to gather her thoughts before composing her response. Max, when you walked into my life, I never anticipated the impact you would have on me. Your presence brings me a happiness I hadn't known before. Max, thank you for your heartfelt confession. Your words touched me deeply, and I want you to know that you mean the world to me too. You make me feel seen and understood like no one else. The way you accept me for who I am, with all my quirks and imperfections, it's something I cherish. Max, you've become my rock, my confidant, and my best friend. Your presence in my life is a gift I never want to take for granted. Sarah takes a pause, her eyes glistening with tears of joy. SARAH (sincerely) So, Max, my answer is yes. Yes, I want to be yours, to walk this journey of life, love, and growth together. You've shown me the beauty of genuine love, and I'm excited to see where our future takes us. Sarah smiles, her heart full of happiness and anticipation. CHAPTER SEVEN Years a had gone by while Sarah and max were enjoying their relationship together and were in the final year of high school and were preparing to write their final exams which include west African senior school certificate examination also. Know as (WASSCE OR WAEC) and their Joint admission matriculation board also know and (JAMB). with excitement on students face and the fact that they will all be done with high school. Max was a science student, he was aspiring to become a doctor, while Sarah was an art student and she aspired to become a journalist. But at this time max dad was ready to be posted another barracks which was located at Jos plateau state, which was a very big concern for max and know he’s not really going to be okay with the distance relationship. Max and Sarah were very popular in school even teachers knew about their relationship and the while school were excited about it. Max was 17 then while Sarah was 16 and they were fully developed teenagers with max’s husky voice and broad arms, while Sarah had large hips and breasts with a little pimpled face. They were always seen together in school holding hands, going to the canteen, going to the chapel and even meetings, Max was the social prefect while Sarah was the health prefect. A dat cane and max decided to talk to Sarah about their plans after they graduate from high school when they get home: Max, a high school senior, sits on the couch, deep in thought. Sarah, his girl friend, enters the room and notices his pensive expression. SARAH (concerned) Hey, Max. What's on your mind? MAX (looking up) Hey, Sarah. I've been thinking about our plans after high school. Sarah joins Max on the couch, curious to hear more. SARAH (sincerely) Me too. It's hard to believe we'll be going our separate ways soon. MAX (nodding) Yeah, it's going to be a big change. But I believe in us. We've always been there for each other, no matter the distance. SARAH (smiling) That's true. So, what are you thinking about? Any specific plans? Max's face brightens as he starts sharing his ideas. MAX (excitedly) I've been looking into universities and programs that align with my interests. I want to study medicine. Maybe even pursue a career in surgery someday. Sarah listens intently, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. SARAH (enthusiastically) That's amazing, Max! I've always known you had a knack for human health and problem-solving. I'm sure you'll excel in that field. MAX (grateful) Thanks, Sarah. Your support means a lot to me. What about you? Any plans in mind? Sarah takes a moment to gather her thoughts before responding. SARAH (determined) I've been contemplating traveling and exploring the world for a while. I want to broaden my horizons, learn about different cultures, and maybe even volunteer in underprivileged communities. Max's eyes widen with admiration for Sarah's aspirations. MAX (excitedly) That sounds incredible, Sarah! I can already picture you making a positive difference wherever you go. The world needs more people like you. Sarah blushes, but her determination remains unwavering. SARAH (gratefully) Thank you, Max. I'm glad I have your support. They sit in comfortable silence for a moment, reflecting on their shared dreams and the uncertain future ahead. MAX (hopefully) You know, Sarah, even though we'll be in different places, we can still stay connected. We have technology that allows us to talk and see each other, no matter the distance. SARAH (smiling) Absolutely, Max. Our relationship is strong enough to withstand any distance. We'll always be there for each other, no matter where we are in the world. Max and Sarah share a warm embrace, knowing that their bond will endure beyond the confines of their high school days. As they part ways, Sarah looks ahead, envisioning the countless adventures awaiting her, while Max gazes at the horizon, eager to witness Sarah's. Chapter Eight Max still left with doubt in his heart and a lingering fear of losing touch with Sarah He knew their friendship meant the world to him, and he was determined to bridge the distance between them, no matter what it took, jamb exams were fast approaching so all students were preparing heavily for the exams. The final day of exams came snd max mum dropped him off at his exam centre with words of encouragement "You got this, Max," she said, giving him a reassuring smile. Max went to the exam hall. The jamb exams were always a computer based test, and it’s usually 3hours long. Sarahs mum also dropped her off at her exam center saying "Good luck, Sarah. We believe in you," before giving her a tight hug. They went in wrote the exams and were all happy about the accomplishments they have achieved , knowing that their hard work had paid off. Max immediately rushed to Sarah’s exam center to meet her and they sat at a bench, Max and Sarah sit on a bench outside their school, both visibly relieved yet exhausted after finishing their exams. They each hold their textbooks, still processing the intensity of the test.] Max: [Letting out a deep breath] Well, that was something. Sarah: [Nods, rubbing her temples] Tell me about it. I think my brain's been turned into mush. Max: [Chuckles] Yeah, I don't think I've ever written that much in one sitting. Sarah: I know, right? It's like they wanted to see if we could actually finish the paper in the time given. Max: [Flipping through his textbook] And those essay questions? Pure torture. Sarah: [Laughs] I was just stringing big words together and hoping they made sense. Max: [Grinning] Same here. I think I even made up a couple of words. Sarah: [Teasingly] Well, as long as the examiner has a good dictionary, we might be alright. Max: [Nods, then pauses] Hey, did you get that last question in Section B? The one about the economic theories? Sarah: [Shakes her head] Nah, I was completely blanking on that. How about you? Max: [Sighs] I tried to BS my way through it, but I don't think it worked out too well. Sarah: [Sympathetically] Ah, the classic strategy. Max: [Grins] Hey, sometimes it's all you've got. Sarah: [Glancing at her watch] Well, at least it's all over now. No more studying, no more stressing. Max: [Relieved] Amen to that. I'm so done with cramming. Sarah: [Standing up and stretching] Same here. Let's promise ourselves never to speak of jamb exams again. Max: [Laughs, standing up as well] Agreed. So, what's the plan now? Celebratory ice cream? Sarah: [Smirks] You read my mind. Let's go. [They both walk off, leaving behind the stress of exams and embracing the freedom of the moment.] CHAPTER NINE On Saturday 17 June 2017 the wassce exams were about ti commence and max dad preparing to move them out if Lagos to Rukuba barracks in Jos plateau state mr Bayo came home after serving a long time in maiduguri for about six years, he usually comes occasionally to Lagos but doesn’t stay long and he also leave after day or two. Mr Bayo cake home and asked his wife where max was and she replied he had gone out with Sarah. Me bayo: [Looking up from the newspaper] Hey, Kemi. How was your day? Mrs kemi: [Smiling] Not bad, dear. How about you? Mr bayo: [Sighs] Oh, you know, the usual. But I've been thinking about Max lately. Mrs kemi: [Sits down beside Bayo, concerned] What about him? Mr bayo: [Furrowing his brows] Well, he seems a bit distant lately. Is everything okay with him? Mrs kemi: [Sips her tea, contemplating] I've noticed that too. I think he's just under a lot of pressure with exams coming up. My Bayo: [Nods, understanding] Yeah, I suppose that's true. But I want to make sure he's not burning himself out. Mrs kemi: [Placing a comforting hand on Bayo’s shoulder] Don't worry, dear. We'll talk to him, make sure he's taking care of himself. Mr bayo: [Smiles gratefully] Thanks, Lisa. I just want him to know we're here for him, no matter what. Mrs kemi: [Squeezing his shoulder] Of course, we are. We'll get through this together. Mr Bayo: [Taking Kemi’s hand] I'm glad you're on my team. Mrs kemi: [Smiling warmly] Always, my love. Now, let's go check on our boy. [They both stand up, united in their concern for Max, and head towards his room to offer him support.] Max’s dad was very worried about the fact that max is the only child they have and he always called home to talk to him on several occasions because he wanted to make sure Max was coping well with the stress and not feeling alone. Later that evening max came home and mr bayo went to his room and they started conversing Mr. Bayo: So, Max, how are you feeling about the upcoming exams? Max: [Taking a deep breath] Honestly, Dad, I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. There's just so much to study and so little time. Mr. Bayo: [Nodding sympathetically] I understand, Max. These exams can be quite daunting, but remember, you've been preparing for this moment all year. Max: [Smiling weakly] Yeah, I guess you're right. I've been hitting the books pretty hard lately. Mr. Bayo: That's the spirit. Just keep focused and give it your best shot. And if you ever need any help or guidance, my door is always open. Max: [Gratefully] Thanks, Dad. I really appreciate it. Mr. Bayo: Of course, Max. Now, let's talk about what comes next. Have you thought about your plans after high school? Max: [Pausing, looking thoughtful] Yeah, I've been thinking about it a lot lately. I'm considering going to college, but I'm not exactly sure what I want to study yet. Mr. Bayo: That's perfectly okay, Max. Many students are in the same boat as you. College is a big decision, and it's important to take your time and explore your options. Max: [Nodding] Yeah, I definitely don't want to rush into anything. I want to make sure I choose the right path for myself. Mr. Bayo: Wise words, Max. And remember, there are plenty of resources available to help you navigate this process, from career counseling to college fairs. Max: [Feeling reassured] Thanks, Dad. I'll definitely keep that in mind. Mr. Bayo: Anytime, Max. And remember, no matter where life takes you, always believe in yourself and never stop reaching for your dreams. Max: [Smiling] I will, Dad . Thanks for believing in me. Mr. Bayo: [Returning the smile] It's my pleasure, Max. Now, let's tackle those exams together, shall we? Max: [Feeling more confident] Absolutely. [They both share a determined look, ready to face the challenges ahead, together.] CHAPTER TEN After the conversation with his dad max starts facing the reality that he might loose Sarah confused and depressed he doesn’t know what to do anymore because the upcoming wassce exams are occupying his mind Max felt as if the weight of the upcoming exams was crushing him. His first papers were on Monday same as Sarah They had to write English that day. So Monday came and they just got to school Sarah greeted max and asked him if he has prepared enough for the exams max said yes he has and he would want to speak to her after the exams, and that was looming through Sarah’s mind throughout the exams. Few hours later some students started submitting their script to indicate they were done so max submitted first with other students and they went outside the hall discussing about the exams while he waits for her so they can go to the canteen to talk. Few minutes goes by and Sarah submitted her papers with a smile on face and immediately max grabs her hands and they both walk to the canteen and had a conversation Max: Sarah, can we talk about something? Sarah: [Looking up from her notes, concerned] Of course, Max. What's on your mind? Max: [Taking a deep breath, hesitating] It's just... with graduation approaching and everything, I can't shake this feeling that... that you might leave me. Sarah: [Surprised, setting her pencil down] Leave you? What do you mean? Max: [Avoiding eye contact, struggling to express himself] I mean, we've been together for so long, and I know we've talked about our plans for the future, but... I can't help but worry that once we graduate, you'll want something different, something more than what I can offer. Sarah: [Reaching out to touch Max's hand gently] Max, listen to me. I love you, and I'm not going anywhere. Yes, graduation is a big step, and our futures might take us on different paths, but that doesn't mean I'll ever stop caring about you or wanting to be with you. Max: [Looking up, his eyes searching hers for reassurance] But what if... what if we end up going to different colleges, or pursuing different careers? What if we grow apart? Sarah: [Squeezing his hand reassuringly] Then we'll face those challenges together, just like we always have. Relationships take work, Max, especially when life throws curveballs our way. But as long as we're committed to each other and open about our fears and doubts, I truly believe we can overcome anything. Max: [Feeling a weight lift off his shoulders, a small smile forming] You really think so? Sarah: [Smiling back] I know so. Besides, who else is going to put up with your terrible puns and late-night study sessions? Max: [Chuckling] Hey, you love those terrible puns. Sarah: [Laughing] Maybe just a little. But seriously, Max, I'm not going anywhere. You're stuck with me, whether you like it or not. Max: [Feeling a sense of warmth and gratitude wash over him] I wouldn't have it any other way. [They share a tender moment, knowing that no matter what challenges lie ahead, their love will see them through.] CHAPTER ELEVEN Almost a month has gone by and the wassce exams is finished the senior students are preparing for graduation and expecting their results, although the jamb results were out already max score 245/400 Which was very fair Sarah scored 256/400 which was absolutely brilliant too and both them were happy about the results going into the graduation with joy. Just a few days to graduation max and Sarah have just collected their dresses from the tailors and we’re heading to school the next day, max said Max: Can you believe we're actually graduating tomorrow? Sarah: [Smiling nostalgically] I know, it feels surreal. It seems like just yesterday we were freshmen, trying to navigate the chaos of high school. Max: [Chuckling] Remember how clueless we were back then? It's hard to believe how much we've grown since then. Sarah: Definitely. And tomorrow, we'll officially close this chapter of our lives and move on to the next. Max: [Looking at Sarah] Are you excited about the ceremony? Sarah: [Nodding enthusiastically] Absolutely! It's a bittersweet feeling, though. I'm excited to see everyone all dressed up and celebrating, but it's also a little sad knowing that this will be the last time we'll all be together like this. Max: [Feeling a pang of nostalgia] Yeah, I know what you mean. High school has been such a big part of our lives for the past four years. It's hard to imagine saying goodbye to it all. Sarah: [Placing a comforting hand on Max's shoulder] But we're not saying goodbye to everything, Max. We'll always have the memories, the friendships we've formed, and the lessons we've learned along the way. Max: [Smiling gratefully] You're right. And tomorrow is just the beginning of a new chapter for us. Who knows what the future holds? Sarah: [Returning the smile] Exactly! And whatever challenges and adventures come our way, we'll face them together, just like we always have. Max: [Feeling a sense of excitement and determination] Yeah, we will. I couldn't have asked for a better partner in crime to go through high school with. Sarah: [Playfully nudging Max] Likewise, buddy. Now, enough sentimental talk. Let's focus on enjoying every moment of tomorrow's ceremony. Max: [Grinning] Agreed. But first, we need to figure out how to not trip on stage while accepting our diplomas. Sarah: [Laughing] I'll make sure to practice my graceful walk tonight. [They both laugh, their hearts light with anticipation for the graduation ceremony and the adventures that lie ahead.] Graduation day came Sarah and max had the time of their lives had fun played games and also made out that night the next day was Sunday and they will go for their after party where max has planned to reassure Sarah about life after he leaves Lagos for Jos they go to a corner after during the party Max: Sarah, I know you're worried about what's going to happen after I leave Lagos, but I want you to know that everything is going to be okay. Max: [Shaking his head, his tone firm] Sarah, listen to me. Our bond is stronger than any distance. We've been through so much together, and that's not going to change just because I'm in a different city. We'll make it work, I promise. Year pass max leaves Lagos after the party to prepare for another new life in Jos. to be continued.Created by akpan ubong sunday 2