Made for me

Roller coaster of Feelings

After the Phoenix contract was wrapped up, there was not much to do at the office. There was a calm in the air and this was when Rose started to have that relaxed feeling. When you have an account, popping a lot of zeros, why won't you? At this time, things slow down a little bit, and this is the only time you think of relaxing. Apart from the noisy, busy Lagos, there are still a few cool spots to chill. From Nike Center For Art and Culture, Freedom Park, Black Heritage Museum, and The Lekki Conservation Center, were places running through Roses's mind as she sits comfortably on her office chair while sipping a hot cup of coffee. She then logged into her i********: to see what was trending and get a few news feeds. She checked her notifications and got the following request from Alexander. After accepting the request, she got a dm from him that says, " Can I have your number if you don't mind? and am sorry for the way I acted last time. the message was convincing and Rose sent her number to him. After a few minutes, Rose's phone rang. Out of her curiosity, about an unknown number, Rose answered. "Hello, who am I speaking with, please?" she asked. "Hello dearest," said the voice from the phone. Rose could not recognize the voice. The voice sounded cool as if the caller was in a bathtub while making the call, and he had a thick bass, masculine voice, with an unknown foreign assent. This made Rose inquire who the caller was the second time. "It's me, Alex" he answered. " Hello Alex, how are you?" she asked. " Am very fine, just came back to the country, and I decided to salute the most beautiful flower around". " Hope I didn't cross my boundaries?" he asked. " No, you didn't sir, and you only did what a gentle person would do". " I will take that as a compliment. "What does your schedule look like?", he asked. " I haven't had much to do today. I think I am free, but why do you ask? " I was thinking if we could go to a cool spot, talk, and get to know each other better?". "Alright, send the address for the meeting," she said and hung up. When she was about to leave she went into Ruth's office, to let her know about the development of her plans. "Hey, baby girl", What's up?". " Am good dear" she replied. " I have to catch up on a meeting with Alex, so finish up everything you are doing, and close early. " A meeting with Alex," she said, as she suspiciously looked at Rose. " That sounds like a date". " He said he wants to talk and get to know other each other better. So don't change the statement". " All work and no play makes Rose a dull girl", she said as she tickled my bestie on her back, and they chased each other around the office like little children playing hide and seek in a garden. "So what's your outfit for the meeting," asked Ruth. " What's wrong with this one am wearing. she replied. " Nothing, but I would prefer you to wear something not too corporate. Something distinct, that shows a little bit of skin". " Am I going there to seduce him or what? asked Rose. "It's just that, I want you to appear a little bit sexy, but if you don't want, wear something you are comfortable with". " This is what we are going to do. We will go to my nearest shop and I will allow you to pick up something for me. What do you say?". " The pleasure is mine" she replied and took a bow. " Hang on as I transform you from a boss to a Princess". "Na you Sabi" ( It's you that knows what you are doing ) replied Rose, then they drove to the nearest boutique. Ruth did a great job on her. She was like Cinderella's Godmother, selecting outfits from her spell book." Bibbidi Babbidi boo" she said the magic words and then brought Rose to a mirror. "Wow, that's impressive," said Rose. " Look at you girl, you look good". "Thank you, my love," she said as she smiled back at Ruth. "Hurry up you don't want to keep him waiting". Alexander was already waiting at the restaurant. Rose could see him at the corner. When Alexander saw her, he couldn't believe his eyes! I mean, why would he? Rose looks that day could win the best dress in the BET Awards. She was wearing a red trumpet gown, with red heels and a little touch of makeup, accompanied by a black purse and a black elastic neck choker. " I can't believe my eyes," he said, as he took off his glasses. "Really, why can't you?" asked Rose. "Am not kidding, I mean you look gorgeous, I swear". " Thanks for the compliment". "So am here now let's talk". "Alright, what will you like to take?" "A bottle of malt will do". "I thought a woman of your standards would prefer something more exquisite, like champagne". " malt will do". "Alright then, bartender, please give us two bottles of malt". "I must say, am impressed with what you archive single-handedly, without a man by your side". " Who said, women, can't be successful by themselves?" she replied. "No one just saying". " Is that what we came here to talk about?" she asked, as the smile on her face turned into a frown. "Tell me a little about your family?" he asked. "Well am the only child in my family, my father could have given me every I wanted but I didn't just grow up to be a Daddy's girl he wanted me to be". " Is he proud of you?" "Well my mum is". " What about you what's your story?" "I Am Into the Family business, my Dad owns a car dealing company in Abuja and Lagos. I am the MD of the one in Lagos". " Alright, that's good, that explains the fancy wristwatch, right? he chuckles then took a sip from his malt. "If I don't spend on me, who will?". " Let's cheer for the good life," he said as raise his glass. "Cheers to hustle" replied rose. After they cheered, there was a little silence between them. "I have been thinking about you lately, and I would be lying if I said I don't have feelings," he said as he placed his hand on top of Rose's on the table. "Are you trying to ask me out?" she said as separated her hand from Alex's and then backed down a bit. It's not that she didn't see this coming, but she couldn't understand her feelings at that time. She looked into his eyes in search of sincerity, but it wasn't clear enough. "I want you in my life, Rose, I have never missed a day without thinking of you since we danced at the anniversary. Please give me a chance". After his confession, Rose was not sure what she wanted. A partner is what she ever wanted but she didn't want to rush into things. " Alex, I don't think we make a good couple. l mean you are not really my type, and we just meet". I could be the kind of man you want if you give me a chance", he replied as he persuaded her a little more. "Just give me time to think this through OK". " Alright, no problems take your time, I will be here patiently waiting for feedback". After the meeting was over, Rose drove to her mum's shop. It'd been a while since she saw her face, and she had missed her a lot. She could see her sitting in front, dressed in a Boba and wrapper. A typical Yoruba woman indeed, her Gele and eyeglasses were accompanied by her warm smile. "Ọmọbinrin mi," (My daughter) she said as she welcomed her and gave her a seat. "You look beautiful my love," she said as she hugged her. To what do I owe this surprise? she asked. "

Iya mi " (My mother) am happy to see you. " she replied. "How is business, my dear?", "Business is booming. Remember that contract I asked you to pray with me for. I have finished it". " That's my girl, I know the God I serve will never fail". " Iyami (My mother), I made over 30 million on the contract". Her mum was very happy, dancing and singing to God, songs of thanksgiving. After jubilation, she sat closer to Rose to render a piece of advice. "My daughter, I am proud of you my dearest, but don't you think you need to render a little help to the less privileged? This is one way God will continually sustain your wealth, and protect you from the dangers in life". She stated while looking into Rose's eyes for a positive response. " I will make arrangements for that" she replied. " Rose, you are yet to introduce any man to me. I am getting older every day that passes by and I would love to carry my grandchild before I go". "Iyami, when the time comes you will see him". Marriage is not something I want to rush into". " Alright, my daughter. What about your friend Ruth?". "She is fine, we are all fine". " Alright, I should be on my way now," she said as her Mum saw her off to her car. While driving home she thought about all her Mum had said. Driving home, she could see a young child hawking snacks in the traffic. Her hair was dirty and her clothes were old and torn. She was convinced in her heart that she needed to give back to the community. Getting home, she called Ruth and told her everything that had happened.

Getting to work the next day, Rose and Ruth went ahead with their mission, and it was simply to give to the people that society had not been friendly with and just put a smile on their faces with some good edible packages and clothes. They drove for an hour before they got to Agege. This is one of the slumps of Lagos. The buildings were old and weak, as if they were leaning on themselves and you could tell from the people's faces that this was a den of tugs. They finally arrived at the Orphanage where Mr. Tunde suggested. After driving into the old gate, they could see a fat woman sitting in front of the orphanage with a cane in her hand. "Hello Ma, we are here to see the children. We have something for them," she said. "Who sent you?" she asked with a nervous face. "We are just good Samaritans trying to give back to the community" replied Rose. "Alright, you can have your seat", she instructed them. Sitting there, Rose could notice picture frames hung on the wall of the reception. Her curiosity drew her closer. She wanted to see the heroes of these kids that are less privileged. One of the photos looked familiar to her, so she called Ruth for verification. " Don't tell Mr. Arrogant is a co-founder of this place. "His full name is Adedeji Ayo Harry" said Ruth. "What can be more strange than a man that's a taxi driver on Monday, Tuesday an artist, and Saturday a community man?" asked Rose. "A hustler, my dear" she answered. Their investigation was cut short when an old fat lady emerged from one of the offices. Wearing oversized eyeglasses, with her hands placed behind her, she introduced herself. "I hear you have something for the children? Follow me to my office". Getting there, Rose and Ruth sat in an old armchair as they watched her as she flipped the pages of a big old book. Everything in her office was old. Most of the things there were donated a long time ago. You can tell from the way they looked old-fashioned. The pictures Rose saw at the reception were also in her office and there was no way Rose could cure her curiosity but ask her a few questions. "Why are all these soft so old here? she asks. " You see my dear, Good people get fewer every day my dear. Before, the support was encouraging, but now it seems everyone has problems to sort out", she said as she sighed and then leaned back in her chair. "Who is this" asked Rose, pointing at Harry's portrait." That is Harry, one of the co-founders of this place and many other places like this in Lagos here. He has a reputation for giving and charity. These kids love him. I saw one the other day drawing a portrait of him and that was a child that didn't speak for four months after being brought here with a broken heart. He lost his parents to a car accident". After the meeting, it was time to take down the things they brought. The kids with sweetened hearts carried the things inside. There is going to be plenty to eat and drink today. You could tell that it was Christmas in June for these kids. With shiny white teeth, they chase themselves around singing songs of Thanksgiving with all smiles. One of the children gave Rose an old torn Teddy Bear. It melted her heart so she picked her up and carried her. It was a joyful moment for everyone. After all, was said and done, it was time to go back home. Waving to the children, they drove out of the Orphanage. On their way back, Rose thought about Harry. "I might have missed Judge him," she said to herself. This was when she remembered that Harry had dropped his card with the secretary at the office. His thought played in her heart like a slide show. She could remember his corny attitude and his lips of jokes. There was no doubt that he was placed in a new frame in Rose's heart. She was a little confused about how to discern him now. She had missed their arguments and she had started crushing on him.

After a three-hour drive, they got to the office. Everyone quickly adjusted themselves to their workplace. The boss is back and this is no time to stand or gossip around. Getting to her office, she called the secretary to get Harry's number. After finalizing some office work, she thought of calling him, and she did. "Hello, am I on to Harry, please? Yes, who's on the line, please? he asked. " it's me Rose". Harry realized who it was and paused for a while. Everyone seemed to be intimidated by her voice, including Harry. "Hello Cinderella", he replied romantically. Indeed, he was a sweet talker. "How are you doing?" asked Rose. "Well, I am just here saving lives and making money". " I thought as much. I sometimes get confused about choosing if the way you carry yourself is pride or charisma", said Rose. "I would like to see it as a gift. I mean, when you can see all the potential in you, then you are a gem. There is no limit to what you can achieve". If there was one thing Harry was great at, it would be being Alpha in any conversation. Smooth like a coin man, he would always know the right words to say. " Do you also see potential in others?" asked Rose. "Of course, I see great potential in you. I know you see it too, but for some, it's better to let them discover themselves". " My main reason for calling is to thank you for your service on our last contract. You brought your A-game to the table". "Well, I always give my best in all I do". "I saw what you did at Agege. You saved the lives of those kids by sheltering them and giving them a better life. Now I understand why you call yourself Robin Hood". "Well done you didn't tell me that you are now, a detective undercover", said Harry. " Am no detective. I'm just someone that wants to give back to the community, so don't mistake my generosity for greed". "Alright, I didn't mean to make you feel that way". Said, Harry. He didn't want Rose to hang up. He had missed her voice and their conversation and tried his best not to piss her off with argumentative combos. " Why do you do it?" asked Rose. Let's say there is more to Harry that you don't know". "Oh, really I can see that". " Why don't we hang out sometimes and get to know each other better? You would agree with me that we got off on the wrong foot". "Yeah we did, but you know I am a busy woman". " There is this street carnival around the corner and I was thinking we could go together?". After a long pause, Harry went further to persuade her a little. "You said you cared about the community, right? Then you should come to see how blessed we are. These kids are talented dancers, musicians, and many more. It's going to be a pack full of music, dance, and colors". His proposal caught Roses's attention. Her crush on him kicked in, and she was falling already. Everything about Harry sounded fun and risky. She won't mind a little adventure. It's what her soul was asking for. " Alright then, send the address. I will be there by 5. "Can't wait to see you," said Harry. After ending the call, Rose went to inform Ruth of the development of plans. "Have fun and enjoy yourself OK," said Ruth as she saw her off to her car. Getting there, she could see Harry doing face painting for some kids. The party was getting started. From the magicians to the dancers, and other different categories of entertainment, it was a sight to feed your eyes with. "Hello Princess it's your turn now," said Harry as he ushered her to sit. Everyone has their faces painted, including Harry. He had painted his face like a tiger. A little kid walks up and flaunts his muscles. Rose was confused. She could not figure out what was going on. Harry then told her in a whisper that he convinced the boy that the painting had given him superpowers. "You must be joking," said Rose. "Why do you play with everybody's head?" asked Rose. "He had told me about how they bullied him so I needed to help clear his mind at least for today". " Are you sure you are not just setting him up to get beaten? Because it seems he will be the one going after them now". " I can give you a happy moment but God chooses our fate" he replied as they both chuckled. "So what are you going to paint for me and what superpowers will it give me?" asked Rose. "I am going to paint a Phoenix bird. It shows focus, strength, and supremacy. " "Hmm OK, go on". After Harry was done, he brought her a mirror. Rose was short of words. "It's beautiful thank you". Harry was arranging her hair when their eyes met and it was an instant connection. Like ice water going through her spine, she couldn't resist his charms. Rose then turned her face away after a few seconds at Disney Land. She loved the feeling but it was new and strange. It's been a long time since she let her guard down. Insecurity had created a fence around her. The hairs on her skin resisted the new intruding feeling. " Let's go, we don't want to miss out on the main carnival event," said Harry. It was entertaining and there was a lot to get amused about. The local wrestling was the most fun. Seeing heavy men lifting themselves on the sand was a lifetime experience for Rose. They also helped some kids out to blow their balloons. The fun was brought to an end by the darkness of the night that had started to chase away daylight. When it was time for Rose to go, Harry saw her off to her car. "Thanks for today, you made my day". " I am Happy I could". "Can we do this more often?" asked Harry. "Some other time when I am less busy". " Ok your Majesty," he said as he blew a kiss to Rose and he walked away to his car.

Getting home, Rose reached into the fridge and grabbed a chilled 5 Alive orange juice. She was tired and lay on her couch to relax, after a long day filled with emotions and fun. It's been a long time since she had so much fun. Her day was nothing more than a roller coaster of feelings. A siege of confidence crept into her face. She had thought she had lost her charms, but her confidence levels had gone up after a crazy day in Lagos. Laying on the couch she started playing back all the memories of the day. It was already obvious she had started falling for Harry, but not a little unsure if Harry felt the same way. She understands that Harry is a charming young man who could get a pretty girl for himself with ease. He got that seductive smile and broad shoulders. He is like a superman in a suit. After a few seconds of daydreaming, she remembered Alexander's proposal, and she promised to think about it. At this point, she was left in a maze. Lost in thought with mixed feelings. She then grabs her diary to write about her day's adventure. She wrote. Hey, Tuesday, what a day you choose to be. A day packed full of adventures. The knights in the arena fought well and now I have to pick one. I never thought it would be this hard to choose. I always knew what I wanted, but now it's like a change of fate. I will always remember the joy you brought and am grateful for the joy you brought. She then said a few prayers and went straight to bed.