Father Christmas
___________
The harmattan air carries a chill, contrasting with the festive glow draping the December evening. I’m seated at my desk, fingers tapping on the keyboard as I scroll through the latest articles and updates in the field of computer science. When I get up for a drink, I catch my reflection in the mirror and I must say, I look wide-eyed and excited. And rightfully so!
The decision to pursue further studies in Dublin has been both thrilling and daunting. While I’m eager to embark on this new chapter of my academic journey, a part of me is also aware of the challenges that lie ahead. As a computer science graduate, I understand the importance of staying current with the rapidly changing industry trends and technologies.
Attending the MBA Tours event was a turning point. I met diverse minds and learned a lot. An intriguing mixed-heritage influencer with captivating insights caught my attention. Based on what I picked during the event, he’s a prodigy. I didn’t let his look distract me, I focused on the event and shared my findings with Special.
I take a sip of the steaming cup of Ovaltine drink beside me, relishing its warmth as I dive deeper into the academic articles. Online platforms, journals, and forums have become my virtual companions, filling my laptop’s bookmarks. I’m determined to absorb as much knowledge as I can before stepping into my master’s program.
The articles cover a wide range of topics—from artificial intelligence and machine learning to cybersecurity and software engineering. Each click heightens my excitement, making me imagine myself engaging in discussions with fellow students and professors. Job applications now feel like a thing of the past.
I’ve heard from some schools. Most are positive, and only one is offering a scholarship which is less than two thousand euros. There’s one school though, one school I’ve got my eyes on and that’s Charleston College because of their academic excellence and research contributions in various fields, including computer science. The prospect of a merit-based scholarship sweetens the deal.
They offer a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum that perfectly aligns with my career goals in data science, data analytics, machine learning, and other crucial aspects of the field. Their student community is vibrant and diverse, and I met a lady at the MBA Tour conference who mentioned she was applying there too.
The icing on the cake is that their central location places them remarkably close to Dublin which offers me the chance to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and vibrant social scene. And… the city’s tech industry is booming and will provide me with potential internship and job opportunities besides my studies.
My phone lights up with a notification. It’s a message from Special, breaking the steady rhythm of my research. His text brings a smile to my face.
I reply to his message, assuring him that I’m deep into my research for the day, trying to soak in as much as possible before my master’s program begins. He responds with his trademark encouragement and a playful comment, lightening the mood just as he always does.
As the night wears on, the articles continue to captivate my attention and I meticulously take notes, bookmark relevant resources, preparing myself mentally for what’s on the other side. With the hum of my laptop and the soft glow of the festive lights outside, the familiar sound of my phone ringing interrupts my concentration, and I hastily pick it up to see Special’s name flashing on the screen. A smile tugs at my lips as I answer the call.
“Hey there,” I greet him.
“Fifi baby.” His voice comes through, warm and slightly tired.
“Are you okay?”
“Hey, sorry if I sound a bit worn out. Just got back from work.”
“That’s true, how’s the new job treating you? Retail Associate. Must be interesting,” I ask, curious.
He chuckles, and I can picture the exhaustion in his voice. “Oh, you have no idea. Retail Associate. Fancy name for store shelf refiller. It’s not exactly glamorous, but it pays the bills and it’s more stable than my last job. Plus, the people I work with are really friendly, so that helps.”
Speaking of his last job, he was delivering food using his friend’s car and ID which was very risky and scary. We argued about it, and he justified it as a temporary necessity until he discovered a more favourable option. Then he landed a pet sitting job, not much pay, but it brought us peace of mind. I’m glad things are looking up for him.
“I’m glad to hear that. It’s all about the experience, right?”
“Exactly. So, how’s study going?”
I sigh, sinking back in my chair. “A bit frustrating, to be honest. But I’m pushing through.” With no Wi-Fi at home, I’m relying on my MiFi for internet connection, which isn’t exactly cheap. But if I can afford to fund my account for calls with Special, why can’t I do the same for my future? “I don’t know what they were teaching us in undergrad,” I grumble, frustrated with our education system. I refuse to let this country’s limitations weigh me down. “I’m worried I’ll struggle before finding my footing once classes start.”
I haven’t settled on a school or funding yet, but I’m staying positive.
“Don’t worry, I know how tough it can be. Just keep at it, and things will fall into place. It’s a good you’re preparing up.”
“Thanks.”
“Sure thing. Speaking of... you met my sister at the airport. Did you get her number?”
I raise an eyebrow, surprised by the change of topic. “Your sister’s number? No… Why?”
He chuckles. “She’s been asking about you. She’s eager to get to know you better.”
“Your sister? Really?”
“Trust me, she’s interested. You’re not just anyone to her. You’re the woman who’s captured her big brother’s heart. So, she’s intrigued by you.”
Warmth spreads through me, as my cheeks tingle with a smile.
“She’s mentioned a few times that she’d like to get to know her future ‘in-law’ better.”
I chuckle, feeling a tad shy. “Future in-law, huh? That sounds serious.”
He snickers. “I’m just saying, you’re important to me, and I want my family to know you.”
“Awwn… that means a lot.”
“It should. Alice is great, and I think you two would hit it off. Besides, it’s good for her to know her future in-law better,” he teases. “Maybe start with some phone calls, get to know each other?”
“I guess you’re right. It’s just that I’m not great at small talk with strangers.”
“You’ve met Alice. You two will have a lot to talk about. Give her a shot, maybe you’ll be friends.”
“From your lips to God’s ears,” I reply with a smile. “Okay, I’ll try it.”
“Thanks,” he says warmly.
“And your family, how’s everything?”
“They’re good. You know, holiday bustle—family gatherings and all. I heard my mom is trying to worm her way back to my father’s house, but we’re not having it.” He hisses. “I’m sorry I brought that up, but that was the latest gist Alice was giving me and I almost lost it.”
“I can only imagine.” This is a touchy subject, one that always triggers a guarded reaction in him. I bite my tongue, avoiding saying anything further. His mom left when he was young, and there’s a lot I don’t know. Maybe one day he’ll share more. “Missing Naija?”
“I miss everyone, including you.”
My heart flutters at his words. “I miss you too.”
“Only a matter of time… only a matter of time.”
“Absolutely. I have a feeling next year will bring positive changes for both of us.”
“I believe that too. By the way, any updates on the student loan situation?”
I take a deep breath; another sensitive topic. “Yeah, I’ve been looking into it more.”
He sighs gently. “I get it. I just worry about the financial burden. But if you believe that’s what’s best, I’ll support you.”
“Thank you. Your support means the world.”
“You’re welcome. And hey, if you ever need to talk or brainstorm, I’m here.”
“I appreciate it more than you know. I’ll keep you in the loop.”
“Good. So, when do you think you’ll be talking to my sister?”
“Next couple of days?”
“Sounds like a plan. You two will hit it off.”
As we chat about our days and holiday plans, despite the current uncertainties, I have a feeling that we’ll be spending the holidays together. Soon. We haven’t openly said ‘I love you’ since that day, but our bond feels stronger than ever.
Dating Evans was cool, but with Special, I feel like I’m moving forward in life. I’ve gotten my passport, I’m applying to schools, and I’m getting excited about living abroad. Yet, he encourages me to apply for jobs. I can proudly say I’m a full-time hustler, thanks to Special.
Out of nowhere, he catches me off guard. “Hey, Fifi, can you send me your account number?”
My heart races. Account number? “Um, sure. But why?”
He chuckles softly. “Nothing shady, I promise. Just a little something for Christmas.”
I widen my eyes in surprise. Money from him? It’s the first time a non-family member’s offered. Wow... “Speshie, you really don’t have to.”
“I know, but I want to. Consider it a token for Christmas. You deserve it.”
Touched, I send my details, hesitating for a second before hitting send. Almost instantly, a notification pops up, showing a deposit. I blink at the screen, heart racing.
I can’t believe it.
Special sent me money.
It’s a reasonable large sum, and the gesture means more to me than he might realize.
“Speshie… thank you.”
“It’s my pleasure. You’ve been working hard, and I wanted to make sure you have a little extra something to enjoy the holidays. Don’t worry, let everything settle—I’m going to spoil you.”
I sigh, my heart warming at his kindness.
It’s not about the money. It’s about... his support. I’m used to being independent, but this feels different. He’s showing he’s in my corner. That he believes in me and is a part of my journey.
As if sensing my thoughts, he asks, “Heard from the schools?”
I chew on my bottom lip, contemplating how to respond. We came to an agreement that I’ll apply to both UK and Dublin schools. “The UK schools are not offering anything. The Dublin ones are offering, and their programs align closely with what I want to study.” All the way from here, I can feel his resignation. “SP, see, whether it’s UK or Dublin, wherever I go, I will make sure we work.”
I hope my words convey my sincerity. Because it’s true. Special means a lot to me, and the idea of navigating a long-distance relationship is both exciting and nerve-wracking.
“Sounds promising. Just know that no matter where life takes us, I’m committed to making this work. Distance won’t stop us.”
His words warm my heart, causing me to smile. “Thank you. Knowing we’re in this together means a lot.”
“Always, Fifi. Always.”
Long after the call ends, I am staring at my phone, processing our conversation. The idea of reaching out to his sister and his encouragement about Dublin lightens my mood.
Our bond is unique.
As I pursue studying abroad and search for a better job, I am confident he’ll be by my side, rooting for me every step of the way.