Make Moves!
___________
I listen intently as Special’s excited voice filters through the phone. “You won’t believe the crew I’m living with,” he says. “It’s like a mini-Africa in our flat. Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa—all under one roof.”
I grin, envisioning the cultural exchange happening under that one apartment. “It must feel like a slice of home being with people from different African countries.”
“Absolutely,” he agrees. “We’re already spotting our differences. But hey, we’ll have a blast, we’re guys.” He makes a sound, like he’s blowing air into the phone.
We had tried for a video call, but my network kept messing the thing up. “What is it?”
“Ah… babe. It’s the weather oh. That’s a whole different story. Autumn, autumn.” He says in a funny tone, amusing me.
“What happened to autumn?”
“I’m experiencing it oh. They did not prepare me for how chilly it gets here. I had to rush out and get myself a proper coat. I thought I could wait till winter before buying one, but the UK has its own cold game.”
I chuckle, imagining him bundled up in a thick coat. “You better get enough warm clothes to survive the weather, and don’t forget hot chocolate or tea to battle the cold.”
“Oh, definitely,” he replies with a laugh, “I have almost finished my Milo. And speaking of adjusting, cultural shock is a real thing. The first time I wanted to get on a bus and saw everyone queueing up so neatly, I felt like I’d landed in a parallel universe.”
“That must have been a sight.” I laugh. Not long ago, people used to line up for brT buses in Lagos, I don’t know if they still do that. “I can imagine. But hey, you adapt fast. You’ll blend in no time.”
“Yeah, I’m trying. And guess what?”
“What?”
“I am the class rep for our group. Can you believe it?”
“That’s fantastic! They see your leadership potential already.”
“I guess so,” he replies modestly. “But you know what’s the best part been so far? The discussions in class are mind-blowing. Diverse perspectives, global minds—it’s exhilarating. I’m always looking forward to each lecture just to hear different perspectives.”
“Hmm…. Education beyond textbooks,” I remark. “Sounds like you’re soaking it all in.”
“And hey,” he adds with a chuckle, “I even found a Nigerian restaurant not too far from my place. Their food is so good…”
“All these within a month? That’s impressive!”
“You know how I roll nau,” he teases. “But I have to admit, I miss you the most.”
“Awwn…” I smile, blushing. And we’ve hardly had a one-minute discussion since you landed.
“Seriously baby.”
My heart swells. “I miss you too. I was starting to think you’d forgotten me so soon—”
“Haba! Why would I—”
“Kidding!” I interrupt, chuckling.
“No nau. Why would—”
“I was joking o…”
“Better. You won’t understand it now, but things have been wild. Phew! I miss our chats o. I told you about my initial living accommodation nau? That I had to move. Settle into classes. Thoughts of my finances will not let me drink water and drop cup self…”
“I understand, my love.” Although scholarship, his savings, and crowdfunding sorted some fees, flight, and shared accommodation, he has school fees to pay in installments. Friends helped him get a job upon arrival, leaving him no time even for calls. According to him, time na money, is much truer over there.
“I’ve missed you, seriously. It’s not a joke o.”
“Me too. I’m just… I’m glad you’re adapting and making the most of it.”
“Totally. Can’t wait for you to experience this. Don’t worry, by then I would have figured the code, and you won’t need to go through this wahala I’m going through.”
His words hit home and I feel tingles around my neck and ears. “I’m looking forward to it. For now, I’m living vicariously through you.”
“I’m at your service.”
His enthusiasm consumes me, and despite the distance, I’m utterly connected to his journey. Hanging up, I find myself filled with a renewed excitement for what the future holds for both of us. Some days later, he video calls and proceeds to give me a virtual tour of his apartment. I can barely hear him with the chaos going on the apartment, laughing at the places they store things.
*****
In the aisles of the Medplus store at Ikeja City Mall, I diligently browse through an assortment of body care products, settling on an unfamiliar brand. The queue for payment is short, and soon I’m strolling through the mall’s parking lot, bags in hand from three different stores. The sun is dipping below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the surrounding governmental and commercial buildings.
As I weave through rows of parked cars, my phone buzzes, I glance down to see Special’s name lighting up the screen. With a gentle smile, I answer the call, bringing the phone to my ear.
“Fifi baby! How’s your day going?” His enthusiasm instantly soothes me.
“Hi… It’s been productive and chaotic. You know, helping Mama Gee, work and all. I finally had time to do some personal shopping.”
“I can imagine. I’m sorry we couldn’t catch up yesterday. It’s been a crazy here. Oh, by the way, I think I’ll get that job—my friends’ cousin is sorting out the details. It’s going to be tough juggling two jobs and classes, but I really need the money.”
“Yeah, I can only imagine,” I respond, processing his swift success in securing employment both at home and abroad. What am I doing wrong? I need him to teach me a thing or two because I’m still in the trenches. And does this mean he would have even less time for our calls? “Correct me if I’m wrong. I’ve found through my research that to maintain your student visa status, you are only allowed to work a fixed amount of hours a week.
“Rules were made for slow people.”
“What does that mean?”
“Fifi…” He sighs in frustration. “Why are you acting like you don’t understand?”
“I don’t…”
“If I work only for that time period, I’ll only be able to pay my rent. What about food? School fees? Transportation? Baby, extra work and good pay is a game changer.”
“But is it safe? Won’t it affect everything?”
“Stop fretting. Most migrants do this. You just need to be smart and not greedy.”
“But—”
“I don’t know what other options I have. I—” he starts, but I gently interject.
“Hey, I’m proud of you. It’s not every day someone moves to a foreign land and figures everything out in weeks. Me thinks you’re doing great,” I offer, my admiration clear. This conversation’s getting heavier than I expected, but I have to show my support. I just can’t believe…
“Thanks, Fifi. So, how about you? Any updates on your plans?” His genuine interest makes my heart swell.
“Well, I’ve been taking baby steps towards applying for schools abroad. You know, researching programs, scholarship opportunities, and all that,” I share, biting my lips. It’s still strange that I’m considering doing this. I am completely clueless about what I’m doing. All I know is, I’m tired of where I am.
“That’s awesome! Fifi baby… you’ve got this. I know you’ll find something amazing.” His encouragement washes over me like a soothing balm.
“Thanks for the vote of confidence. It’s just… a lot to process. Leaving behind everything familiar and taking that leap into the unknown,” I admit. “I listen to your stories, and it sounds good knowing that you’re overcoming obstacles, but when I imagine going through all that by myself, away from family…” I shake my head, “I don’t think I’m cut out for it.”
“No one is cut for it. Change can be scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Remember what we talked about back in the day? Sometimes a change of scenery can work wonders.”
“I know, I know. You always have a way of reminding me of your unconventional wisdom,” I tease, a fond smile curving my lips as I arrive at Mama Gee’s SUV, unlock it, toss the bags in, then slide in.
“That’s my superpower, remember? Along with the ability to make the best fish sauce for boli.” His playful tone brings a genuine laugh to my lips.
“Oh, don’t even get me started on that one. You’ve officially ruined boli for me,” I jest, my heart lightening with our banter.
“That’s another thing I’m here for.”
Content, grateful, and happy, I let out a sigh as I watch other shoppers navigate through the parking lot. “I never thought I’d be in another long-distance relationship, but you’re different,” I confess, my voice softening.
“Different in a good way, I hope?” His question is met with a chuckle from me.
“Absolutely. You’re patient, understanding, and you make me laugh even when I’m stressing about our future,” I admit, the truth of my words sinking in.
“Well, that’s what I’m here for. To support you, make you laugh, and remind you that you’re capable of more than you think.” His reassurance fills me with a sense of gratitude.
“And you do it so effortlessly. Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky,” I muse, a fond smile gracing my lips. I got lucky twice in a row.
“The feeling’s mutual, Fifi baby. We’ve got something unique, and distance can’t change that.”
“Agreed. It might be challenging, but I’m grateful for the bond we share. I can’t wait for our reunion. I want it to happen like… today, today.”
“Same here baby. Just keep your passport ready and those school applications moving, and it’ll happen in no time.”
“About that passport… I haven’t gotten it yet,” I admit sheepishly, a touch of embarrassment coloring my tone.
“Haven’t gotten your passport?” His surprise is understandable, and I would have laughed, but this is a serious discussion. “Fifi...”
“I know, I know. I’ve just been caught up with work and everything.” I explain, guilt making me defensive. “It’s been on my to-do list, though. These guys make it so inaccessible and expensive. The mere thought of starting the process is daunting.”
“Expensive?”
“Money is not the problem. I just don’t like that someone, a government official, will rip me off by twice the amount, just for them to do their job at the utmost speed.”
“Fifi.”
I sigh loudly.
Silence fills the air and I glance at my phone screen to confirm we’re still connected.
“Is money the problem?” he asks again.
“No, no. It’s not. I don’t know anyone, and I’ve really not had the time—”
“How about I refer you to someone who could help with the process?” He offers. “Make it smoother?” His willingness to assist warms my heart.
“Really? That would be amazing!” I whisper, grinning. “You’re like the superhero of passport applications.”
“Haha, well, I’ll take that title if it means helping you out. Anything to get you closer to being here with me.” His playful response makes me smile.
“Oh, I see what you’re doing. You’re just excited to have me there with you so you can take me on doughnut dates every day,” I tease, playfully unraveling his intentions.
“Guilty as charged.” His laughter is infectious. “Can you blame a guy for wanting some company while exploring new doughnut places?”
“Not at all. And hey, I won’t complain about being your official doughnut taste tester.” I play along, relishing our lighthearted banter.
“That’s the spirit. Um… I just sent you his number.”
“Thanks.”
“Now go and tackle that passport application, and we’ll be one step closer to making your doughnut dreams come true,” Special encourages, his words spurring me into action.
“Deal. Thanks for always being there.”
“Anytime. Take care and talk to you soon.”
“You too. Bye for now,” I reply, ending the call with a contented sigh.
Slipping my phone back into my bag, thoughts of our conversation linger. It’s moments like these that make the distance between us feel a little less daunting.
As I navigate the bustling mall, my eyes roam, landing on the Krispy Kreme shop where not long ago, I savored the sweetness of their pastries and shared laughter with my number one cheerleader.