Small Talk, Big Dreams
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Our drinks arrive within seconds as Evans fills me in on which restaurants serve the best crispy chicken wings. As someone who prefers cooking at home, I’m intrigued by his vast knowledge of every single pot in and out of campus.
True to the server’s predictions, steaming plates containing our meal arrive about twenty minutes after our order.
I observe Evans’s animated gestures, listening to his foodie stories. He has a genuine passion for life and an infectious enthusiasm that’s hard to ignore. As evening turns to night, our conversation flows smoothly as we share stories, exchange jokes, and discover common interests. One part of me is grateful I’m not spending my night at home with Linda.
“So… what made you choose to study computer science?”
Taken unawares, I stop short of putting the piece of meat I just cut in my mouth. “Are you sure you want to know?”
I’m sure he notices the twinkle in my eyes because there’s a glint in his as he responds. “Yes. I want to know what you’re really passionate about.”
“Computer science is one of my biggest passions...” Is there something on my teeth? Why is he staring like that? I move my tongue around my teeth and feel nothing hanging around the edges.
He nods, urging me on. “Why do you love it?”
Oh, he’s genuinely interested in what I’m talking about. “Um, I love how it challenges me and allows me to solve complex problems. It’s fascinating to see how technology can shape the world. I was in primary three when I told Mama Gee—my mom, I mean.”
He nods.
“I was in primary three when I asked her for a personal computer because I heard computers could solve problems, even the complex ones. The problem I wanted to solve was her having to stop working non-stop.”
I can see he is struggling not to laugh. “How… how would you have solved the ‘stop working non-stop’ problem?”
Oh, my…. I absolutely had big plans back then. “By making pepper soup on the computer and sending it to her customers.”
“Oh!” He chuckles and I join him too. “That’s possible, you know?”
“You don’t have to tell me.” I smile, waving a hand. “I later learned how, and I contributed to the building of her website.”
“Wow.” He grins, leaning forward, his elbows resting on the table. “Did you code—”
“Then?” I scoff. “Nothing like that. That’s why I’m here studying Computer Science.” And they started with Fortran 77. So apt.
“I’ve always admired people who have a knack for coding and programming. It’s like a whole different language.” Nodding, his tongue darts out to wet his lips. I refrain from staring at them.
He’s so cute! “It is. I almost gave up coding in my first year, which felt strange at the time. Thanks to a dear friend who encouraged me to persevere, I now have bigger dreams.”
“I’m glad that worked out for you. Do you have any specific goals or dreams in the field?”
“Absolutely! I intend to intern and work in big tech companies… you know the drill.”
It looks daunting. Me being one out of the millions in this wonderful country applying to firms like that. But it’s possible. Google, including Oracle, has offices in Lagos.
I sigh. “The end game for me is… to land a job that allows me make meaningful impact. I never knew Computer Science was so broad; there’s software engineering, graphics and user interface, information security—there’s just so much. I’m still figuring out what I want to do.” At least the school has us on a chokehold on that part.
When I got into Hopewell Uni, I thought it would help focus my energies and choose what I want to do in life faster. Alas, it has only added to my confusion.
“Ultimately,” I continue, “I envision myself working on innovative projects that push the boundaries of technology.”
“That’s impressive.” Evans reaches for my hand on the table, but I withdraw it, expressing a small, shy smile as I press a finger to the side of my ear.
This is feeling too rushed. I’m getting comfortable around him; doesn’t mean we should get all touchy.
My action doesn’t faze him, he calmly carries on like nothing untoward just happened. “I know that you’ll achieve great things. And while we’re talking dreams,” his eyes light up, “what’s something you’ve always wanted to do or experience?”
Something I’ve always wanted to experience? That’s easy. “To travel the world.”
“Same here!”
“Yeah, yeah… I want to immerse myself in different cultures, explore new landscapes, and create memories that will last a lifetime. There’s so much beauty and diversity out there, and I want to embrace it all.”
“I couldn’t agree more. Traveling opens our minds and broadens our horizons.”
“It does. Maybe with the Microsoft money, I’ll get to do that.”
He laughs, squinting with one eye and pointing a finger. “That sounds like a plan.”
We chuckle.
“Don’t forget me when you’re touring the world.”
“We’ll see about that.” His questions piques my curiosity, and I can’t resist asking about his field of study. “Enough about me, I know you’re into Electrical Engineering because,” I tilt my head to the side, “you know, Linda.”
He nods.
“So… are you studying it because you applied for it, or because they gave it to you.”
“I applied to it.” He bobs his head in that animated fashion of his that’s beginning to wear on me. “The world of circuits, electronics, and power systems. It’s a fascinating field. I’ve always been drawn to the way things work and the intricacies of technology.”
“You know it’s incredible how interconnected computer science and electrical engineering are.” I comment before lifting my cup of water. “We rely on the fundamentals of electronics in so many aspects of our work. Um, do you have any favorite projects or areas of focus within electrical engineering?”
Evans’s enthusiasm shines through as he shares his passion. His pupils darken and he relaxes in his seat. “Yeah, yeah. I’m particularly drawn to renewable energy systems and sustainable power solutions. It’s amazing to explore ways to harness natural resources like solar or wind energy and integrate them into our existing power grids. Nigeria has some ways to go on that, but I can only hope that our generation will do the best we can for her. Don’t get me started on the simple things we ought to be doing to reduce all these noise and air pollution that comes with operating a generator.”
“No…” I chuckle, gripping the table’s edge. “Don’t come for we generator owners.”
He shrugs, wearing a wry smile. “It is what it is. It’s not your fault; it’s the situation of this country.”
He is so passionate and engrossed about this topic; all I can do is watch him, marveling at his heart.
“We just need to reach that point where the leaders believe and agree that clean and sustainable energy is the way of the future. And we have all the resources but—oh no.” His expression shifts to a knowing look. “I’m boring you.”
“Kind of. Oops, I said it out loud.” I tease, taking a sip of water, before pressing my lips together.
“Ouch.” He touches a hand to his chest, chuckling more. “I’m so sorry. Fifi, I’m sorry.”
Lips still pressed with a smug smile; I shake my head. He can’t help it. He’s so cute! “You were not boring me.”
He gives me bombastic side eyes, shaking his head. “Stop it.”
His genuine care and consideration for this country and even for me has been evident throughout the evening. He shows empathy and understanding, always mindful of how his words and actions can affect those around him. I’m witnessing something rare and beautiful—a man who possesses not only charm but also a deep sense of compassion and emotional intelligence.
When he doesn’t say more, I add, “It’s good that I know someone I can call on when it comes to natural resources and the like. Don’t be apologetic. Nigeria—the world needs innovative minds like yours to tackle the challenges of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.”
Calmer now, he nods in agreement. “Thank you. I’ve got a couple more questions for you, though.”
I nod, encouraging him to go ahead. To think Linda was convincing me we would hit it off, and I was hesitant. Here I am relishing talking with this stranger who is rapidly growing on me.
“You mentioned you want to travel the world. Is there a particular destination that’s at the top of your travel bucket list?”
“Definitely! I’ve always found the Asian culture fascinating. Most especially that of Japan.”
“Watching a lot of Jet Li and Jackie Chan?”
I chuckle. “Which Nigerian kid our age didn’t? Point of correction. Jet Li is Chinese and Jackie Chan is from Hong Kong.”
“Oh, yes ma’am. And you found out about this by…?”
“Googling.” I chuckle, nodding enthusiastically when he realizes he’s in for a lecture. You can’t get out of this one because you asked for it. “What made me delve into Asian culture was the movie series titled Jumong. Have you seen that one?”
He shakes his head.
Oh boy. “Well… I won’t go into details, but, that series, it’s Korean by the way, had me hungry for more, then I started reading Memoirs of a Geisha—I’m yet to see the movie. But reading about the blend of traditional and modern elements, the rich history, and the vibrant cities—it’s like stepping into a whole new world. I can’t wait to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms and indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine.”
In my zeal to geek about Asian culture, I know I lost him somewhere, but the gusto with which he responds and his words tells me otherwise. “I couldn’t agree more. Japan has such a unique and captivating culture. The Geishas and… I hope you get to fulfill that dream someday.”
I hope so too. Sometimes I think it’s a phase.
“Speaking of dreams,” he continues, “what’s something you value the most in a relationship?”
Ooooh. Here we go!
I flash a big grin. “Are you—”
“I’m just curious.” He raises both arms up in a gesture of innocence. “I just want to get to know what works for you. It’s nothing deep. Yes, I like you. But this isn’t the night where I pop the question.”
I smirk, nodding languidly, absorbing his words. He wants to pop the question later? The only other person I’ve gone down this path with is Special. See where it has led me.
“Really, when I’m wooing you,” he winks, “you’ll know.”
“Hm, okay.”
“So, something you value the most in a relationship?”
Reflecting profoundly, I sigh gathering my thoughts. “For me, trust and communication are paramount. I believe in building a sturdy foundation of honesty and openness, where we can share our hopes, fears, and dreams without judgment. It’s about being each other’s confidants and supporting one another through the highs and lows. You?”
“You’ve said it all.” He nods. “Trust and communication are the pillars of a healthy and fulfilling relationship.”
“They are…”
“Hmm mmh. It’s about creating a safe space where we can be our authentic selves and grow together. I truly value that, too.”
He holds my gaze, telling me more than words can, that we’re on the same page with this.
As our conversation continues, we delve into various topics, discovering more about each other’s beliefs, aspirations, and quirks. I tell him of Mama Gee being Liberian by birth and of her popular pepper soup joint back home in Ogba. He tells me he would like to visit her joint. Then tells me his mother used to run a big grocery shop in front of their house at Igando, recounting how he used to take her stock without her permission to sell in school. When I ask what he uses the money for, he laughs, telling me he squandered it playing PS2 after school hours.
There’s an effortless ease to our conversation, as if we’ve known each other for far longer than just a few hours. Evans possesses a rare ability to make me feel comfortable. His genuine interest in my thoughts and experiences has me feeling both validated and intrigued. Without trying, I’m noticing there’s some sort of connection here; I need to tread carefully.