CHOICE IN A THIN LINE

by Nelson Mandela, Jr

CHAPTER FOUR

  “Paul every of that you need I will show it to you. Just follow me.” Floor facing hostel I was walking to with the school receptionist present a smooth look to any guest coming there for first time. “Right here Paul!” “too big to stay, only me?” “put away your surprises.” “Okay if you say so.” Unnoticed to me I’m alone in midst of amazement. “This is magnificent. I won’t even imagine me a poor boy can stay in room prepared for me.” I check round anything I can focus on. Parading hangers all signals for pickup. “So neat!” stream of books piled up. Idleness difficult to engage in as each books can flush out lackadaisical thoughts in my room. Strange to switch on the light. My palms search about to switch on fluorescence above me. “I got it.” A knock on my room door dried my boldness; I shifted myself and climb a cemented slab below window in my room to watch who might be knocking. “I hope is not Billy!” I watch calmly as I noticed a woman I suggested might be school messenger alerting everyone to gather themselves to eat at the school buffet. I came down from top immediately opening my room door to speak with her. “Are you only one occupying room-9,” she asked. “Yes.” “He must be rich.” My only neighbour from room-8 said eagerly. “I’m Michael my trusted friend Jonathan is coming here very soon. If you need help knock my door close to you!” “Your class?” “O, primary-six.” “That is great.” “Time is against us. We must go together to school buffet to eat my friend. What is your name?” “Paul.” “No surname?” “Okay. Paul Collins.” “You must be from a rich class. Room-9 is only for three students.” “Wow! How lucky I am. Only me.” “Hi ... Paul!” “Sandra! You also have a room closer to me?” “not too closer. OO!” “What is wrong Sandra?” “Something ... Painful.” An expression of pain and inward concentration altered the pale contours on her face. “Please ... tell me.” “Can I follow you and Michael to school buffet?” “Of course we need you there. I know that place is right place for you to tell us that painful thing you wish to narrate.” Quickly we were at school buffet sitting alongside other students watching TV and some were cracking jokes to entertain everybody. “Someone want me dead!” “how did you come up with that Sandra?” “I was bathing when the light went off. As if that is not all. I heard an heavy bang at the bathroom door. Scary voices all around me unbelievable to me I slept due to fear of been lynched.” “Can we have a serial killer in this college?” “is possible Paul Collins.” “Why can’t you confirm who it was from room next to you?” “I did that but I got an encouragement to be free from premonition.” “When only you again in your room did you hear another voice?” “No. Worst of all is red inscription boldly written on my doorway which say: —Beware of me Sandra.” I gaze at Michael quickly; passion coupled with sorrows embraced his state. “Service of a clergyman is needed. If none of us can find that in this school definitely we must engage ourselves in night vigil to avert calamities to come.” “Jonathan you will be leading us when we gather together to pray in my room.” “No .. All we need is strong faith to brace us up for a showdown with that unwelcome night guest disturbing Sandra.” From far I could feel my name been called by the unknown. “Quiet. Quiet. Who must be that person calling my name ...?” “It is me you fool. I now get you Paul. This time no escape not even from this sorts of cowards by your side.” Billy and his gangs of same categories were more daring to us. “Paul I beg of you challenge me in midst of your friends.” “Please Billy this is not right.” “Oh. If that is what you will say tell me while you have guts to answer Mr Johnbull’s question!” “I answer that out of ignorance.” “Ignorance? Ha! Ha! Ha!” Billy excited to unleash vengeance on me as I pleaded.*

  Michael cautioned Billy of school procedure so as averting disobeying school rules when in angry mood. “We are here to eat and not to fight. Billy come eat with us as one.” “Sandra stay away from this matter I don’t want to injure you. I guess you had nothing against me.” “I know but if Paul offended you as it may be, report him straight to our headmaster.” “If not for Sandra believe me Paul I could have give you what you deserved.” “I-I know.” Billy together with his gangs left us as we still shivers while he had gone. “Thank God nothing evil happen. Besides we must be lucky since nobody even knew what was going on.” “See students going back to their hostels. We have to join them before Billy comes here again this time he might be back to kill.” Choruses around our ears from each already satisfied students getting back to school hostels. I intended joining them to sing any song I can remember as I was still staying with my late mother. Lovely music began as I led fellow students on an hot day. “Here finally!” “Sandra within a second I smell here to be place we were allocated to.” “Open your room door Sandra. That person always scaring you must be caught now!” we were in after her room door is opened; their laid uncommon silence. Minute later the fan breeze make rattling noise as something is clutching its blades. “This fan again? I disconnected it as I haste leaving my room.” “Sandra is it spirit that is controlling the fan?” “help me I refuse to take this anymore!” “Prayer! Prayer! Only solution as challenges surface!” Jonathan usher us in mood of prayer. We ended as Sandra thank each of us before shutting the door. Evening hijacked such an hot afternoon as it won. Alone in my room I wept as my late mother came into my memory. So many books to read stopped me from shedding lonely tears. Patched brightness quickly turned night as I watch while laying flat on mattress with four-corner-stand. Heat shorten my breath that encourage me to pull off my body wears. School guards talking as they walk with their shiny duty torches. I peep through the window near bed I lie on. Four owls flew as they landed on cemented heap below window of my room. “This is exactly what might be disturbing Sandra while alone in her room!” Concern I have for Sandra growing so large. I felt worried since she may be powerless to face her oppressors. I step down from top of four corner stand which was holding me from downing. Metal chair nearer me played host to a lot of books as I checked only book related to what I wish reading. “Continent countries represent. I love this one. Mr Johnbull can challenge me in class. I must read what he likes.” Tiredness, yawning weakened me. “How I wish I can still look through the windows.” I lost kip that is part of me. Hours of reading caught short by cock-crow. I stood up to watch those usual voices of students heading variously to their classes. Horizontal exercises down the field became an interest rather than delay. Jonathan jog really strengthen all small courage within me. Grubby state never make students jogging ashamed. I wave from far still not even one person can sharply recognise me. I angrily grunted as I sat thinking of the day tasks. I swept the floor; as a former housekeeper I learnt ways of sweeping faster des
pite how horrible your broom might be. School bell jingled three times ahead. I prepared myself so clean. School bag coloured in Navy blue hanging on my shoulders. Teachers already teaching subjects of specialization in their fields. “Good morning Mr Johnbull.” I humbled myself. “Paul Collins I am disappointed in you for your late arrival in class!” “Hungry is cause of it.” My class was in complete ecstasy as I entered to sit on my chair. Mr Johnbull continue his teaching as I rested my head on the desk. “Georgina bring the food or else I will faint.” “Paul Collins stand up!” “Sorry sir for sleeping.” “Okay apology accepted but tell me who is your source of help?” I tapped head of mine as I ponder for an answer. Mother is still close pal I would never forget.

  “The Collins’ are my recourse. I will give them best gifts within my reach. That is to excel in my studies here.” Mr Johnbull pinched his nose, he became baffled to see how serious my face is. Our day is interesting as students minute after Mr Johnbull asked me my source of help. Class work that is ten marks went to two of us in primary four. Five subjects for that day ended as I took the day. Closing hour I shook myself more ready another day to clinch another marks in class. Now tired as I got directly to my room. Assignment first is what I figure out for solution. Sandra had knocked my door violently; I refuse allowing disturbance alongside me. Sandra left since I never allowed her in. Books of interest lie on floor waiting so that it can be read. An envelope under the room carpet make me to write a letter to Mr Collins in Congo. “Hillary too need this. Georgina I won’t write you any. You shall see me unexpectedly believe me I still remember help you had given me.” I ran to take a shower as I penned the last written word. Just a short rest took me to another brighter day. I finished as usual, eat and hurried to class. Assembly ground seems tough as I can see no students even blinking their eyes. “Line straight,” senior prefect in charge ordered. I recede as line extended. Strict looked prefects gathered far distance from us as if they had something against us. Mr Stingy watched our line, shook himself. It occur to me that morning is worst day he ever experienced as a school headmaster. He alight to addressed us. “Since 8:oo I had been waiting patiently now you all came at your own time.” Grumbling in an apparent disagreement from the students make Mr Stingy to be more angry. “This days things change from something unexplainable: when I was like you students I am very smart. How do I say of you people?” noises around alerted each prefects as they punish us one after the other. “Let them back to their classes.” Mr Stingy remark. As I step into my class I urge everyone to pray for a good moment. Class that almost look like classroom of breeding hooligans became class of prayer warriors. Mr Johnbull sat at back chair, join us praying as I appreciated his courage. Prayers ended exactly 10:00; sweats soaked my uniform than anyone. “How are you all?” “fine sir!” “have yourselves on your chairs as I teach.” “So weak Paul. Eat this little bread I have with me.” “Sandra, Umm ... good of you.” Teaching materials positioned in case an example is needed. Mr Johnbull started lowly thereby giving us hope his teaching may end up becoming interesting. We enjoy his subject than any teacher that had taught us. The school bell jingled signalling it is time for another teacher to come into our class. “I think my period is over for today.” An unfriendly man adjusting his specs walk in without saying his name. Mr Johnbull laughed broadly and left. Billy raise himself up to ask question from the man. We were fully ready to support him if he is punish just for his inquisitiveness. “I teach general studies but I practise tourism as an hobby.” “Sir. Sorry interrupting you. We would appreciate knowing your name.” Offence is best form of defence so I wasted no time to commit it in presence of my classmates. “I am known as a tourist around Africa and my country. I am Mr Adewale please accept my apology for not introducing myself earlier.” His sun burn skin was only thing funny to look at. “Get lost we don’t want you,” Billy shouted. “Be free my students. My mission in a month should be accomplished.” Diagram widely displaying map African nations are radiate for us to see as Mr Adewale show me first before moving round the class for open view. “Airplane can go faster than anyone’s imagination. Along course of our study we shall be preparing for an excursion to excite you all. Read harder I may say best student in this class will go. Five in all will be heading directly for that. In a week from now that place might be paradise for the lucky student.” I sank deeper into thoughts I know that place is my right to be. “Imagine to see yourself inside an helicopter on a free excursion.” Weeks time from now I believe I shall be in an helicopter or an aeroplane. We rumble to one another as doubts were in our minds whether Mr Adewale was actually person to believe. Even a drunkard can’t say what he told us. The money to hire helicopter is point of discussion for all primary four students. “Is there question from any one of you before I leave this class?” we could not even raise our hands up to ask if at all he is serious with what he promised our class. “You over there ...” I pretend as if I was not the person Mr Adewale is pointing. “Stand up young man.” “Paul it is you.” Sandra alert me. “Paul Collins is my name sir.” “It seems curiosity can be seen on your face. I can read your mind.” “Nothing for me to ask sir!” “this college is capable of giving money so as to support any project we needed. I shall talk to Mr Stingy about this.” We ranted because it is must for our school to support Mr Adewale since he had something good for us. “Is there class monitor here?” “No. No!” Billy shouted. “Paul Collins is brand new class monitor. He is capable of that. I have nominated him.” Only Billy against my nomination. He hissed while walking away from the class without saying excuse to Mr Adewale. Hot sun from surface of the Louvre shine into our eyes unexpectedly making our day quickly boring. Tint Sun too harsh for Mr Adewale specs, hence, he remove his specs and left the class. Talk of discussion around our class. A tall quiet boy whom I had try persuading to be my friend came, ask if Mr Adewale is truthful from his words. Another thing he was about asking was difficult for him to say since he stammers. Such handsome look from him will make anyone to doubt he is incapable talking faster. Mr Stingy together with Mr Adewale addressed us as we were almost leaving for break-time. “It came as surprise when Mr Adewale told me of the plan ahead. You all know the plan.” “Safari park! Safari park!!” we shouted. “Plan date is not fixed.” Turn of Mr Adewale is my expectation. Not too long Mr Adewale spoke confirming Mr Stingy as truthful. He assured us he shall convince Mr Stingy to hire an helicopter. “Northern hemisphere is where our helicopter shall be heading; after that we shall land in safari park.” “Sir. I have question!” “Good. Ask class monitor.” “Is there no region better going to than the north?” “Umm. Is just better as I have experience. Don’t bother if you pass m
y test I know you shall enjoy there.” “Another question. Please tell us what is inside safari park base on your notion.” “Fine animals tamed for visitors to see is displayed inside their various homes.” “How can we be sure that animals is safe to near?” “perfectly safe. Besides, a guard is ready in case something goes amiss.” “God forbid. That guard cannot be rely upon.” “I disagree with you as I have not heard bad news of safari park guides unable to perform their duties assigned to them.” “Paul Collins. That is enough of that!” Mr Stingy expressed. “The safari park is our hub and abode in days coming. Paul Collins meet me in my office if there is questions again you might want to ask.” Mr Adewale cherished me more than my classmates. Jealousy can be seen shining on their faces. Again the quiet boy came; he told me his name is Bravo. I stretch myself embracing him as my own. “Bravo I cherished your courage despite your agility.” Sandra yelled, push me back as if she saw ghost walking in our class. “Sandra what is it?” I asked. “Bravo had never talk in class. It is miracle seeing him talking faster.” “O, is that your surprise?” “yeah Paul Collins.” Billy fold his arms fearfully. Bravo is his greatest threat as he now knows he can talk. For so long Billy had cheated him. “This boy is wicked!” “Bravo cool down your mind we shall both fight Billy.” If Mr Collins heard I fought he must be disappointed with me when he arrive from Congo. Only me knew what was hitting harder in my mind. Sandra adjust her uniform looked at me suddenly.

  “All humans have weak point.” “Billy is scared exchanging punches when he is being watched.” “Paul Collins you had studied him than I.” “Is that all what you think Bravo?” Billy sat beside us pretend he is reading just to hear all we have against him. His bunch of unserious gangs that have same rough look as him were busy smoking their cigarettes happily. Break-time hour is opportunity of discussing bothering issues. Billy is not only in my mind but also in Sandra’s mind. Something not too serious can pull Sandra’s happiness down. Fear of night dangers is not over. Billy’s case is a worry for her. Sandra hate cheating not to talk of limiting the defenceless students Billy got his fist on. “I got all you need!” Billy barked in an apparent display of war. Heavy slap went straight to Bravo as students scrambled for safety. Bravo retaliated faster than expected this led to a complete brawl between Bravo and Billy his oppressor. I sprang my feet; ready as I encouraged Bravo not only to fight for his right but also to report the matter so that the school disciplinary committee will caution or expel Billy together with his fellow gangs. “When I am through with him, you should be next Paul Collins!” Billy gangs pull out knives from their baggy pockets to stab me. Sandra began shouting for help. To her she believe I can’t defend her and myself. The school balcony is that place secret war was going on Between Billy gangs and I. “Stab him! Stab him!” Again Sandra shouted painfully. Billy gangs seems to change their minds against me. Bravo is that person they want to unleashed terror on. “Do it now!” Bravo stopped fighting; shook his head as if I was going to die in minutes coming. “Very soon your friend Paul Collins shall be pronounced dead.” Dead people are forgotten once years streamed memories of them away. If I die that would be big sadness to the Collins’. One door that serve as entrance to any class was blocked by Billy’s gangs. “This boys is my protection. For Paul Collins unfortunately before I slice your throat new class-monitor is not elected. That means I am the new monitor.” “Paul what can we do?” “Sandra I will overcome Billy once and for all.” Sandra unable losing me knelt, pleaded so that I will negotiate with Billy. “Sandra why crying?” “Paul Collins I need your loyalty. That is enough!” “Thank God I know it is easy for you doing.” “Paul Collins that is simple to do.” “Paul we can’t die here when our parents think we are in class by now. Just be loyal for our freedom.” “No. I’m ready Billy. Attack me first!” Billy dive towards me. I twisted his hands backward. He shouted in pain. Neither his gangs could rescue him as he cried. “I surrender.” Sandra couldn’t imagine that. “Are you sure?” “trust me Paul Collins!” Sandra smiles difficult all her fear about keeping alive has diminished. “Unbelievable. Paul Collins this is true?“ “as you can see Bravo it is true. Billy can be defeated!” Most students in our class had engage themselves to search for us. They suspect Billy about taking advantage of us. Jonathan trail our foots; located where we were but refused calling my name. Students in primary four rushed to the school balcony, held panting Billy for his judgement in Mr Stingy’s office. While at headmaster’s office Billy begged for mercy before I narrated what happened. “What is the problem Paul Collins?” “It is about Billy sir.” Billy cleaned his eyebrows as he stand as an accused. “What had he done?” “He almost stab me sir.” “Stab?” “I have witness sir.” “Who is your witness?” “Sandra.” “Call her here.” Not long Sandra came in after I called her from class. “Em ... Paul Collins your father called from Congo.” “What message for me sir.” “He only ask of your performance which I told him you are excelling.” “I am happy to hear this message.” “So Billy murder is that thing you aspire for.” “Let me explain sir.” “No need for that. Stand here! I shall discipline you.” Billy pinched his cheeks while tensed. He stare at wall clock backing Mr Stingy. “What are you staring at Billy?” “nothing sir.” “Or do you intend to break it?”

  Rear report comes unexpectedly at Mr Stingy’s office Billy famous for his notorious character and this made him popular to school management. “We almost expel you last term if not for the school disciplinary committee I could have handle your case myself.” “Paul Collins thinks he can offend someone and go scot-free.” “Whoa! I see how audacious you can be. Until when I give right to you then talk.” Mr Stingy left me in his office as I was with Billy taking a cold look at him. “Paul Collins I will win. I can manoeuvre each files on this table.” “So you want good files change.” “Fine. That is all.” “Maybe that was why I heard students talking about an innocent boy that got expelled when he need his reward for championing the school to victory.” “Trust me I exchange that innocent boy file since he refuse bowing for me.” “Mr Stingy won’t spare you when I tell him this evil deed you perpetrated.” “I shall get revenge if they expel me. I will. I will.” “Sorry Paul Collins I’m back.” Billy prostrate beg for mercy as he knew all is not well with him. Greatest fear he exhibit is nothing more than expel. “Last parent meeting held was inconclusive because parents refuse agreeing on stiff punishment for any problematic student.” “This is what you need sir.” “Good of you my secretary.” “I can assist you along sir.”
Mr Stingy brought sheets packets from his drawer gave it to me so that I will differentiate the sizes. “Small packet means small sheets.” “Yes sir.” “Rich parents fail training their wards. Hm!” “Upbringing contribute whenever a child is spoilt.” “We suffer it most when they come with shady characters. School is last option for parents when children troubled them.” “Sir. Is it bad contacting parents about their children manners?” “If school authorities do that parents would behave calm.” “Why?” “they hate blames.” “But it should be fault of parents having bad children disturbing school authorities.” “In first place we shouldn’t have give Billy admission.” “Forget the past sir.” “Prefect even make matter worse. Yesterday a prefect went drinking alcohol inside toilet.” “I-I will say it is strange.” “I caught him. Primary six is his class. By next year that idiot will be in secondary session, what will become of him?” “second chance is okay if he is granted.” “He apologise which I forgive him.” “Billy where is your parents?” “Can I stand up sir?” “you can.” “M-my parents are in overseas.” “Paul Collins I need your assistance kindly call Mr Johnbull here.” “I shall sir.” Billy dipped his hands into his narrow pockets fully ready bribing his way. “Your money should be big.” Mr Stingy did not know I hid beside his office and eavesdropped. “$200 is what I have.” “Billy add more money if you want me to turn this case upside down.” “Okay tomorrow will solve it all. I shall add another $200.” “Good boy. Be sure no one is briefed on this issue.” Corruption is what I dislike Mr Stingy had mingle himself with Billy. Now I see reason that will make me believe Billy is above the law. I told Sandra all. Mr Johnbull drive his sport car gently into our school premises. I open his door for him which he came out thanking me. Sandra had warn me should in case Mr Johnbull asked me if I see Mr Stingy I should decline from saying I saw him that morning. School library open two hours after school assembly I went straight carrying all I need as Sandra accompanied me. I met a girl that taught me ways mathematics is solve without giving you problems. She saw how I battle for an answer. Sandra convince her I can do it. Jealousy sprung Sandra to know that difficult side so that putting me through won’t bring second party. Lively vicinity around took off anger I have against Mr Stingy. “Paul very soon Mr Stingy would be sacked from his duty.” “Hallucination as I can say.” “He is our acting headmaster. The school owner would soon be back from Germany.” Sandra broke my thoughts when she let me knew an acting headmaster is in-charge of the college he can’t spearhead. “Is that owner a foreigner? I don’t think so. He is an African.”

  “That headmaster of ours is fast to do whatever he wants if having slight opportunity.” I seems confused starting from the moment I heard Mr Stingy receiving bribe from worst of all student in any college. “Big mistake for our school owner handling this enormous college to someone avid.” “Mr Thomas with his accent, a simple man when addressing us very early on assembly ground.” Without coming in contact with Mr Thomas I have a feel he should be best college owner that ever exist in this earth. “Paul Collins you prefer reading here.” “Sandra you also add Collins to my name?” “Is it bad?” “don’t be perplex I will say it is because I have never heard you called me Paul Collins.” “Funny enough as you say. Paul is Mr Collins your father?” as I enjoy solving my mathematics I became lugubrious. Sandra want an explanation from this heart breaking question difficult for me replying. “Secret. Promise me you won’t reveal it to even the ant.” “Until permission is granted from you.” “Nice hearing that Sandra. Collins is not my father. He is boss I worked for.” “Is that why he attached Collins to your name?” “he did it since I told him my father had gone to Somalia. Mr Collins believed he may be dead.” “More. More!” “let us sit under that tree Sandra.” “Yes most students reading beside us may think we are talkative.” Our day is interesting while discussing with one another. A big stone heavy to lift is pushed forward by me and Sandra. Good seat as I may say. We both sat mute after exercising out strengths. “So?” “Charles son is me.” “Who is Charles?” “an hustler working tirelessly just for his family.” “Ouch!” “hope is well?” “yeah!” “Sandra I ate swine faeces!” “tell me the truth!” “Jerry employed me as his worker when he saw how desperate I was searching for job so that I can raise money for mother’s hospital bill.” “Where is Jerry now?” “dead.” “How comes?̒” “snake bite!” “Jerry allowed you to eat swine faeces?” “No. Hunger that night makes it easier tasting swine faeces.” “Paul Collins I beg your pardon. Did Jerry chase you away?” “I escaped when he was about punishing me more for allowing his swine to escape from that wooden pen house.” “Escape?” “I went far after my father’s friend directed me.” “To where?” “Mr Collins his brother’s house.” “I am touched!” “housekeeper job I did passionately. Mr Collins reasoned with his wife that I should be enrolled in a school.” “New life as I believe!” “Work. Work. I became restless serving Mr Collins. I can’t complain or else his wife would send me packing.” “Can we both stroll to watch basketball? By now it should have started.” “There!” “I said that.” Ball went into the court. Students running on field enjoying warm weather brightening their day. “This is best game for me.” “I prefer football.” “Choice is hard making, with time this basketball game would be yours than any.” “Hmm. I can’t concur.” “Hi. I trained all boys of mine rare tactics.” “School basketball coach!” “you know better. I am nicknamed Sammy.” Sandra on hearing his nickname hugged him. She longed seeing Sammy. “That is your favourite game?” “Yes Sammy.” “How about my gentle friend?” “Paul goes for football.” “Convince him basketball is for big boys and girls.” “Football brings honour, fame more faster!” “Paul be among the boys. I shall gladly make you more famous than them.” I felt a surge of triumph run through me. I focused on him monitor his eyeballs; sincerity empty in him. If Sammy word can be trusted definitely him as well should be greatest basketball coach ever existing. “You agree?” “I would think about it.” “Hold this ball. Do as I say.” “Okay Sammy.” “Throw it up!” Sandra did as Sammy ordered her. “Perfect!” “Sandra pays more attention, Sammy.” “So that is what you bear?” “yes Sammy.” “Fine. On Thursdays meet other players, learn from them as they practice near the court.” “Sammy Should I come with him?” “Who?” “Paul.” “Why not, if he wish following you, fine!” “Sammy expect me on Thursdays this exact time.” “With Paul too.” Sammy waved blankly at us.

  “Wonders. Sammy want me to join the college basketball team. He can’t decide for me.” Evening had appeared than we expect. “Basketball players all have strange tattoos on their skin
s.” “Is that your belief about basketball players?” “I dislike basketball Sandra.” “Mr Thomas car. I said so. He had arrived from Germany.” Happy boys and girls smiled from outset, frowned when Mr Thomas dark German car passed them. “Tomorrow shall be a tough day Paul Collins.” Birds flew to their nests. I turn watching how jovial day ended very well. “Paul Collins be fast we should be at our rooms.” Trekking from field is for once hard explaining. I checked my wristwatch every five minutes of walk. “We are almost close.” As I came close to my room I could feel flowing airs around me. “We see early Sandra.” Sandra open her room door, entered inside. “Mr Stingy I smell danger around you. Your boss is back.” I ate sugarless biscuits I left in my box, slept happily. “Who is that? Is morning?” “Open.” I took my bathe put on my uniform; wore brown sandals. “I have finished please!” Immediately I step out I quickly locked the door. “Assembly had started Paul Collins.” Mr Thomas was making an announcement respectively. I saw Mr Stingy absolve in fear. “Fellow students this morning I ordered Mr Stingy to expel a rude boy from this college. Billy is what they called him. He insulted me when it came to my notice he had offended his seniors.” I now seems more happier when I receive live news I wished for. Mr Thomas finished making his announcement. “Sandra congrats!” “for what Paul Collins?” “Billy is a forgotten student.” “Remember he can still buy his way in.” “Mr Thomas does not accept nonsense for Billy it is over.” “Hello students when is break-time free foods await everyone of you at school buffet. You are all free to your classes.” Loud chorus make Mr Thomas smiling. Classroom already neat than ever before. Mr Thomas arrival had brought good changes we can’t explain just in a day everything seems like dream to me. While we receive lecture about personal health the college time keeper jingled the bell. “Break time. Break time.” It was fun ending what we should had known. School buffet crowded every seconds. Numbers placed on each seats. Sandra sat closer me. “Today our oppressor is finally expelled; I am too happy Paul Collins.” “Which food do you prefer?” the hardworking known waitress asked calmly. “General food.” “We never have that on our menu lists. Every foods had names. Look through the lists, select best one you prefer.” “Rice mixed with salads.” Sandra had started eating hers before food I ordered for was brought. “Billy is here!” A cold shrill voice from Sandra scared me. Simultaneous punches every inch around signals danger to school buffet owners especially. Empty bottles of soft drinks smashed while used as injuring tools. Gallant security men fully alert took Billy away. “Have no fear as you both eat. Billy would face full wrath of the law.” Grey hairs she present tells more of her age. “I had been insulted by children I can give birth to.” An indigent old woman speaking lucid language. “Your name is …” “Paul.” “Mrs Fabian is serving you now.” “But ma’am your children suppose to be assisting you whenever you are called for assistance.” I showed displease with Sandra statement towards old Mrs Fabian. “I married almost three decades ago when love is love.” I almost burst out massive laugh as I see she is still interested on love. “This work is tedious; most important hours that I had decided is for my children is consume serving college students.” College ambience is calm when Mrs Fabian was talking. No order from customers waiting. I packed all dirty plates, spoon, cups for thorough washing. The work I engage myself into is laborious. Sandra assisted me in washing everything I packed to kitchen. We were through less than an hour. “Very quick Paul.” “Is there more Mrs Fabian?” “Yes. I will do that. Thanks. You can sit, relax, listen about my past interesting years.” “Sorry I am about to interrupt you, tell us about your husband.” Sandra rustle as her desire was accomplish that is exactly what was bothering her mind. “Fabian had died for so long.” A short sting surprise ran over me making me to cough. Doctor coming in contact with me firstly would think I am diagnosed of tuberculosis. “Want some water?” “don’t mind Mrs Fabian,” I said. “My husband was a loving type to his family and our neighbours. I missed my Fabian when alone!” Keeping close eye on Mrs Fabian one may suggest she had been conned so many times by crooks. “Good husband who performs duty of an house wife.” “Sorry Mrs Fabian I share your feelings!” “I lay on bed beside him, admire him with praises. Fabian keep bad friends around him. He even got drunk often. Day came when things began getting worst; Fabian could not take worst situations as it come he beat me mercilessly in presence of the children.” “It is unbearable. I suppose appropriate authorities should had been informed.” “Worst thing trying if Fabian knows then I am finish.” “If it is possible going back to the past I will help you Mrs Fabian.” “You are not born then definitely it is impossible.” “What were your children doing when your late husband maltreated you?” “They cried pitifully, as their tears was on they do what their instinct can convince them doing. Fabian legs were seized.” “I love that! I love that!” “Fabian got angrier beat his children bruises were displaying on their feeble bodies.” “Is your neighbours unaware of what was going on?” “I will say our closest neighbour came out pleading with him to stop beating his wife.” “So Mrs Fabian is it death that snatched your husband away that allowed you to be a waitress in this college?” “It is not as you think. I can’t feed my children with sands. They deserved good food from mother’s hard work.” “Wait Mrs Fabian, is your husband keeping an affair outside his matrimonial home?” “Yes. I remember my daughter inform me that her father’s phone had rang continuously.” “Did you told her to give it to her father?” “I did. She came back telling me he had slept.” “I—I am heartbroken Mrs Fabian.” “I read text forwarded to him. One thousand messages all were about Love, nothing more else off love.” “If it is me I will wake him up. He deserved an answer.” “I did that. Fabian snubbed me when asked about that text sent to him.” “He should be found guilty if he is tried in court,” I flushed. “White shirt he wore was blotched with red substance smelling offensively.” “I guess Mrs Fabian it is nothing more than lipstick.” “You know right. It is true.” “Affair with a girl.” “He is suspected for philandering. I refuse giving him his phone; mistakenly I dialled one number which later provoked him. The person that answered me seems to be his sugar girl.” “Hmm!” “I receive insults from her as she believes it is Fabian’s wife she was speaking to. I almost ran mad.” “Mrs Fabian what you should have done is to warn that girl.” “I warned her to keep off from Fabian or else I will deal with her publicly. In return she warned me to get ready for war.” “Good men change sometimes; this experience I have heard will remain fresh in my mind.” “Divorce won’t come from him since I will say, he did not threaten you with divorce.” “Fabian did that my daughter.” “I am Sandra.” Oh yes. Your mother knew best for you. Sandra fit you as a name.” “An order? I can serve him!” “leave it I don’t want our big boss wife to know I don’t wish serving at th
is present moment.” Break-time was over all students had left except I and Sandra. We wish to hear what led to the death of Mrs Fabian’s husband that made her hairs grey while having young person skin. We dodge when we spotted dark car coming towards our direction. Under our chairs we hid watching different legs passing us faster. “Where is Sandra? Where is Paul? You could have inform me before leaving.” “Mrs Fabian bend down.” She stretch herself down, catching a glimpse of our welcoming eyes. “Come out and sit.”

  “I hope no dark car is cruising?” “If there is I won’t call both of you out.” “Mr Thomas can be unpredictable. If he discover we are sitting instead of being in our classroom he will forward our case. That means we will be expelled.” “I know when he is coming. When the sun is at its scorching stage expect him.” “Sandra be alert.” “Paul Collins don’t rely on me. Be as well alert.” “More food if any of you is hungry.” “Ah! As for me I can proudly say I am okay.” “Selfish ingrate. You forgot I am here. how about me? You seems not to be bothered Paul Collins?” “That is enough Sandra.” “Silent Paul. Silent Sandra! Mr Thomas can pass unnoticed. Do you both wish good for me?” “Yes. you are our school mother.” “Em ... as I was narrating, I went reporting that matter to Fabian’s friend. Mr Kobakoba followed me directly home. He knocked before I open the door and led him in. Fabian questioned appearance of his friend when he did not invite him.” “Sandra check your time the sun will soon scorched.” “Mr Kobakoba pretend I had not tell him anything. I smell danger when Fabian walked his friend out of his house.” I winked Sandra forcefully. Mr Thomas pretend he was making an important call from his handset. Sandra knelt before Mrs Fabian to beg if asked about her presence and that of mine. Mrs Fabian promised she must do the undo so that we will not be expelled from the college. “I passed a circular informing all prefects to chase unserious students away if the bell is jingled. This two what are their problem?” “Yes. Yes. she is lucky you came quickly. Sandra is battling with stomach ache.” “Is that what led her to kneel down?” “fear must be the cause sir.” “Hey boy is there also problem with your stomach?” “No sir. I directed Sandra to school clinic but she insist food must be in her stomach before heading to clinic.” “I understand boy. Now Sandra do you prefer your meal serve in school clinic?” “I want Mrs Fabian to prepare her delicious rice.” “In school clinic my personal cook have an office there. She is a good cook. I don’t need monitoring her prowess of cooking. All I need from her is delivering in services she likes rendering.” “I have phobia for people I never knew. If I eat their food I can die in pain.” “Mrs Fabian I must say I am happy you hear what she is saying. Tell me the truth, is Sandra really okay? Or did you cast a spell on her?” “Spell? Whatever Sandra said is her choice. Stomach is sensitive, therefore eating an unknown person food can be dangerous.” “Mrs Fabian hold your lips!” “I will sir. If you want me to close my eyes I won’t hesitate.” “I own everything in this college. From this primary section to secondary section. I decide for you and your boss.” “Mr Thomas I beg of you, avoid telling big boss wife. As for Mr Babs he will forgive me.” I whimpered for Mrs Fabian. Dismissing her should not be welcome from either side. “Hold that tiny lips of yours.” “Sir forgive Mrs Fabian.” “Boy even in Germany I don’t tolerate. Carry your cross alone. Mrs Fabian is certain not to escape this wrath of mine.” “Stomach pain!” Facetious Mr Thomas rub his smooth palm on his cheeks. “Mrs Fabian go now bring some snacks.” Sonorous voice of Mr Thomas shows his passionate feelings towards one of his student. “Boy fear not Sandra shall be strong when Mrs Fabian is through cooking sweet hot rice.” Closing hour is drawing nearer. Mr Thomas try bringing an idea for excusing himself from attending to Sandra’s health. That is opportunity we wait for still yet he find it difficult to come out with tangible reasons. “Sandra food is ready,” Mrs Fabian informed. “Eat Sandra. If this food is not properly cooked well tell me now.” “Sweet meal Mrs Fabian is too good to be elevated as chief cook in this college.” “Chief cook I shall do all within my reach as Mrs Fabian has bring full happiness for me and all students. Ill health here is something your parents never expect for once. Mrs Fabian expect your promotion letter from now. I shall inform Mr Babs right now!”