The day of my departure to college, seemed the happiest day and moment so far for Isabel.
"Even though am not completely happy that my master wants to train you in higher institution, at least you are leaving. That is my greatest happiness. If you like, go and demonstrate your witchcraft there, it's your problem. But I'm glad My mistress eyes has been open to know you are not ordinary."
I felt like giving her a slap, just to shut her up.
"Well I equally pray, that my Master himself will soon realize that he's only helping a devil." I just had to give it to her, no longer able to withstand her rude and annoying outburst.
"Watch your tongue please. I am not a Devil! We both have pitiable situations, and that's why we are both here in this home. At least, I am considered , how about you? Just a mere house help, with no hope of a better future! I'm on my way to college, for a better life. Good luck with your cleaning job." I said as I completed my pack up. Already dressed, I changed from my Pam's to sneakers. Looking at her, I could see the words really got into her. She looked hurt.
"Hey... I'm sorry OK? I didn't..." She cut in.
"Just get out, you've said enough!"
"Excuse me aunty Florence, Oga sey make you come downstairs, driver dey wait for you." Isabel snorted.
" 'Aunty Florence' " I ignored her.
"I will be right there Mr Paul. Thank you."
"Do you mind helping me, with my things, Isabel?" She hissed and stormed out of the room. I sighed, and moved my things downstairs.
"Good morning dad, good morning mum." I said, on my knees.
"How are you my dear?" Dad asked and flashed a smile. Mum didn't acknowledge my greeting, and had to be nudged by dad before reluctantly replying.
"How are you? She asked coldly. I smiled.
" Am good mum. How is your health, and the baby?" Mum looked away.
"We are okay."
"Alright honey, she will have to be leaving now. By the way sweet, don't you have any advice to give her?" Dorcas stood up roughly ignoring her present condition.
"You are going to the university. If you like turn yourself to something else, and waste my husband's hard earned money. He alone loves you and that's why he's funding your education. If you like, don't make good use of the opportunity." She said, and stormed out of the sitting room. The driver came in, and packed my things into the booth.
"Don't bother about my wife's harsh words my dear. You see the more reason why she behaves this way towards you, is because she's doing everything possible to make sure you don't turn out more important or see yourself more important than her biological child on the way."
"But dad, it's not so. I thought she was strongly in support of my adoption? I would never do anything to hurt her or her unborn child. I can never do such!"
"She's a woman you know. Only trying to protect her child, of whom she has been waiting for years. Don't be offended okay?"
"Sure dad, no problem. I am okay. Please try taking good care of her. And, thank you so much for everything."
"Alright my dear. By the way, I've sent some upkeep money into your account. Be good and go make me proud. I love you..." I locked him in an embrace.
"Thank you dad. I love you too." I disengaged myself, and got into the car.
"Drive safely Paul." He said to to the driver, as he drove off.
* * *
The journey was a smooth one, and I arrived Port Harcourt late in the evening. The capital city of Rivers, was a beautiful one even from its entrance.
I was driven to the apartment, gotten for me by my foster dad( A two bedroom bungalow). After being dropped off, I retired to one of the rooms as I was way tired.
* * *
The next morning, I prayed and had my bath. I intended to tour the town a little to kind off get used to the environment. I quickly had breakfast, and got a cab that drove me round town. I tasted some of their delicacies and got to know some of the lifestyles of the people living in the city. They were all easy going and peaceful to relate with.
* * *
Once again, I drifted into one of my numerous thoughts. This time, I thought of Sandra, my closest friend and companion.
I had visited her only once since I left their area. Later on, I lost her contact and regretted not finding out time to visit her before leaving Abuja finally. I became suddenly worried about her, and hoped everything was well with her.
#Once life turns out better for me, I promise to come back for you girl. I promise.#