Stumbled Into Love

 

By A’ishat Akano

Cake, biscuit, shortbread or anything, I didn’t care, as long as I could put something in my mouth. Maybe it would reduce the rumble in my tummy.

I walked through the streets of our quiet, almost lifeless neighbourhood. My family moved here seven years ago, and honestly, it still didn’t feel like home. I doubted it ever would. The place seemed stuck in time, like an external force had pressed “pause”. Nothing ever changed, and finding basic things, especially when you needed it  the most, was a struggle.

When I started university in Lagos, I found my escape. The University of Lagos became my refuge. I loved the city’s vibes, the campus life, and the distance it put between me and this place. Coming home was always a chore, and over five years, I’d only been back twice. This particular visit being the second time. Most of my breaks were spent at my sister’s house an easy decision that brought me joy. But now, with just a few days before resuming my final year, I have to endure this place for a while.

Thinking about my final year filled me with a mix of emotions. It felt like yesterday when our sienna was jam-packed with my family, dog included, to drop me off at the school hostel. My family had their flaws, but they always had my back.

A sharp stumble over a rock brought me back to reality.

“Are you okay?” a hoarse but calm voice asked, with a hint of an accent I couldn’t place.

I froze, startled. I hadn’t realized anyone was nearby. Turning, I saw a guy probably in his mid-20s walking toward me. He was tall, dressed casually, with a face that could make you look twice.

“Huh?” I blurted.

“You tripped just now,” he said, his tone concerned but calm. “Are you alright?”

I nodded quickly. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

“Good,” he said, offering a small smile. “That was a close one.”

I gave a polite nod, ready to move on, but he wasn’t done.

“So, what’s your name?” he asked casually, falling into step beside me.

I hesitated, unsure why he was so interested. “Tutu,” I said finally.

“Nice to meet you, Tutu. I’m Jayden,” he said, extending a hand.

I ignored it, picking up my pace, but he matched it.

“Okay, so where are you headed?” he asked.

“Somewhere to buy snacks,” I said flatly, hoping he’d take the hint.

“Snacks? Good choice. What kind?”

I stopped walking and turned to face him. “What do you want, exactly?”

He raised his hands defensively. “Nothing! I just saw you and thought I’d say hello. I’m new around here.”

“New?” I replied irritated already.

“Yeah. I just got in from the States for a friend’s wedding. Figured I’d explore the area a bit.”

“Right,” I said suspiciously.

“I’m serious!” he laughed. “I’m not trying to kidnap you or anything.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t help smiling a little.

“Look,” he said, “I’ll stop bothering you if you want. Just thought you could use some company.”

I shrugged. “Suit yourself.”

We walked in silence for a while before I finally found a small shop tucked into the corner of a street. It was as unimpressive as I’d expected, but at least it had biscuits. I grabbed a few packets, and we sat on a nearby bench to share them.

To my surprise, Jayden turned out to be good company. He cracked a few jokes, told me about his work as a software engineer, and somehow got me talking about school and my plans for the future.

By the time we finished, I realized I wasn’t as irritated as I’d been earlier. He walked me back to my street, and before parting ways, we exchanged numbers.

Over the next few days, we hung out a couple more times. Then he left for Lagos, and soon after, back to California. Despite the distance, we kept in touch.

It wasn’t perfect or planned, but somehow, it worked.

And just like that, I stumbled into something I hadn’t been looking for, love!!!