Truly... It May Get Better (THE END)
1271 Words
Sorry for holding your hand in class without your consent".
I had to say, I didn't expect that from him. I fell silent as I didn't know what to say. I was about to say something else, but he threw me off guard.
"I just… I just wanted to touch your hand for some reason. I apologize".
His apology was genuine, and I accepted it.
"I wasn't offended though, but it's okay. Next time, you can ask me".
He knew consent when it came to something like this that I didn't even think much about. That was nice.
He looked relieved. "Cool".
"About my brother, have you thought about it?"
I needed a date, to settle this matter.
No matter how mad he was, I knew Nduka would support me. I was making the right decision to involve him and I wouldn't have the mind to talk to him if not because of his efforts in my life. Charles better have some moves up his sleeves.
"We could meet at where we met today", he offered. "Anytime suitable for you, since you're the one introducing us to each other".
Bolu's specials. Around 6 PM because I wanted to sleep early and maybe think about my life deeply before morning comes and I end up looking like a ghost. Because I had some things I needed to think about. I really did.
"That's fine by me".
We said our goodbyes as I got out of the car to enter my hostel.
I needed to eat properly before I begin the long process again.
*****
It was 6 PM on the dot.
I was impressed by Charles coming on time. Two times today. Nduka was early too, as usual. Well, he worked in a hospital, it'd be a shame if he didn't learn that habit.
"So… Nduka, this is Charles. And Charles, this is my big brother".
They nodded at each other, standing.
"I'll leave you two to it then", I said, getting up to move somewhere else to eat.
I wasn't going to look at them or anything. The only time I was going to stand up from my spot was whenever they were done. I wanted nothing to do with whatever heated conversation they were going to have, really. I just wanted everything to be over.
So much troubles.
I only ordered a cola and focused my attention on my phone. Time to put the excess data Charles got me a while ago to use– I still sent him a message or two to thank him and scold him for it.
It took them an hour– an hour, to finish talking. I couldn't just sip cola, the looks the workers were giving me was enough to convince me to add a few things to my table. It's not like I was sitting with anyone, and I was just on my phone. I bet it was taking everything in them not to tell me to get the f**k out.
Did the guys argue? It didn't look like it from where I was sitting. I was proud of myself, not glancing at them from the beginning. But I was tired and I wanted to go home.
I watched my brother get up and walk up to me. I tried to read his expression, but I got nothing.
"I'm going to take care of the bill", he simply said, taking out his wallet.
I stood up thesame time Charles did. I tried to read his expression too, but I got nothing. I didn't know whether to be happy or worried.
"Uh… how did it go?" I asked when he walked up to me.
"He didn't tell me to go f**k myself", he said, smiling a bit. "And he didn't threaten to kill me, thankfully”.
I was relieved. "So, good?"
"He said he'll be watching me, after a couple of threats. I had to reassure him a couple of times that nothing would happen to you though".
He didn't seem shaken up, so my brother didn't do damage. Good.
"He's really protective of you, I don't hate that", he admitted. "Considering some of your complaints, it's good you have family.”
I chuckled.
"I'm going back to work", Nduka said after he came back, "I have a night shift".
I nodded. "Okay".
The three of us walked out of the building.
I shivered slightly as I felt the cold. My sweater wasn't protecting me much from the unexpected night breeze, it might be the start of the raining season soon. Need to buy more body warmers, I guess.
"I'll call you later", my brother said to me, opening his arms for a hug.
I hugged him tightly, enjoying his body warmth. Even when he wasn't in the best mood he never failed to show affection. He was the best.
"Good night", he said, letting me go, then giving Charles a simple nod.
We both watched him get on his bike and drive off the car park. We stood in silence for a bit before we got into his car.
"Would you like to go on a date on Saturday?" Charles blurted as we got on the road.
"A date?"
I'd never been on one before.
"If you're comfortable with the idea. It's nothing too serious".
Maybe I'd have to browse what a date would entail, later. But I knew it meant just the two of us, not as just friends.
"I'll go on a date with you", I said, noticing his nervousness.
He needed to calm down. I said I was interested in trying things out with him, and I'd keep my word.
"We'll talk about it more tomorrow", I yawned. Damn, I was tired.
"No problem". He kept silent throughout, letting me nod off a bit before we arrived at my hostel.
"We'll talk later", I muttered, opening the door.
"Do you mind if I hold your hand a bit?"
I paused, still sleepy, but paying attention to him and his words.
"For a good night's sleep", he joked.
A ridiculous reason, but I'd accept it. As long as it wasn't a kiss or anything I wasn't ready for yet. We'd held hands before, doing it again wasn't a big deal.
I nodded in response, stretching a hand towards him after he switched off the car lights– probably to prevent anyone from seeing us. Our fingers merely glazed over each other, but Charles got more confidence as he joined our fingers finally.
I gasped at how warm his fingers were, I felt like he transferred his warmth from his fingers into my body. My fingers were cold as f**k.
"This is nice", I said.
I couldn't see his expression under the darkness, but I bet he was smiling.
"Your fingers are cold though", he pointed out.
"Sorry", I apologized. "I'll make sure to warm up for next time".
There'd definitely be a next time. We had a date after all.
"I need to go".
"You do".
We really needed to talk more. Ever since he confessed, Charles has been a bunch of nerves around me. I didn't like it. It used to annoy me before, but now…
"We'll talk tomorrow", Charles said.
"Yes". We must.
Then he reached out a hand to cup my face, and brushed his lips against mine. It was such a simple action, but it sent my system into a spiral.
"Good night, Ike", he whispered, breaking the kiss while still holding my hand.
His eyes were gentle, holding a promise that I felt willing to explore.
"Good night, Charles", I said, finally letting go.
- Writer
