CHOICE IN A THIN LINE Page 5

CHAPTER FIVE

  Horn from Mr Thomas dark car make him speedy joining his personal driver directly to college quarters which he temporary stay before he heads to Germany. “Is this real? For long I was sideline as big boss wife refused promoting me. Chief cook?” “be happy Mrs Fabian. I share this happy day with you.” “I won’t stop to thank both of you.” “How can I convince myself that it is our school mother that won for us. We can’t be afraid of expulsion.” “Mr Thomas know our names.” “Sandra I need the end of Mrs Fabian experience when she was married before becoming widow.” “Students had closed.” “Leave them, besides, Mrs Fabian is not complaining we are here disturbing her.” “Paul Collins I wish to play basketball even when Sammy had not give me go ahead to join the college basketball team.” “From this place trust me we would both watch how students are having fun around basketball court.” “Serious?” “why not Sandra.” “Promise is a debt.” “Well believe me. Mrs Fabian I apologise for any obstruction.” “How can you? Have I forget your contribution towards this success I have today? The answer is no!” Sandra smug state allowed basketball overtake her. “Fire gutted our house during that time my husband is already asleep.” “Oh God!” “his body burnt beyond recognition.” “Mrs Fabian how much will I give you so that past memories won’t hurt your personality?” “Sandra enough of that. She have unlimited freedom so avoid stopping her!” “Mrs Fabian where were you when fire gutted the house?” “away monitoring business I have.” “Which type of business do you do?” “in future journalist should be your career. Okay selling locally made cloths.” “That is too stressful. Had it been that positioned paid workers are hired by you something wrong may not have happened.” “Children foresee than adults, if I have ability to see as the way they see, I could have still be doing business by now. New business is dangerous entrusting it in employees hands.” “Mistake. Mistake. Human is not born to be perfect. Definitely wrong must occur.” “Sandra no one is above mistake.” “Mrs Fabian don’t be offended. How was your reaction when it occurred to you your husband is dead?” “sympathisers pass that message when I saw huge crowds gathered around our compound. Atmosphere thick of chronic smoke took over usual air.” I remove white handkerchief I reserved in small bag in pocket of mine, cleaned Mrs Fabian falling tears. “Widow at young age is challenging for whoever is experiencing it presently.” “When boss is back I shall assist you with any amount I can get from him.” “I appreciate, but I did not ask for that.” “Consider your children Mrs Fabian. Whatever I contribute can also assist them.” “Me too. When is visitation day my father, a trained sailor is capable of giving you money within his reach if I complain you need assistance.” “I should be satisfied with pittance I earned. Five girls under my care never complain one day.” “So fast? Time is against us. We should be prepare to watch basketball players practising.” “How happy I am. When I get home the good news I shall be telling everyone is nothing more than Mr Thomas promise. Chief cook too big for me.” “By tomorrow expect I alone.” “How about Sandra?” “maybe she may come as well.” “Expect me Mrs Fabian. Bye.” Noises along road towards the basketball court awake our spirit to high esteem. Sammy voice can be very funny; his instructions was demanding. “Sammy is it today?” “Thursday is not good for my players. I change their training to Tuesdays. I should have inform you yesterday.” “Sammy let me spin the ball.” I became fascinated watching Sandra swinging herself up in an apparent display to challenge any opponents. Sammy encouraged other players, tapping them on their shoulders. Three hours training over. Hostel was waiting for us.

  I make a patter on pediment fix to the door of my room. Opposite me is room-8 which occupy four students of same family. “Can we help you? Sorry it is you.” “I want to know if intruder comes, who will be first to know?” “we of course in room-8 if room-9 occupant is not around.” “That was reason of me tapping room-9 door so that room-8 occupants can burst out see for themselves that stranger knocking opposite them. If it is your room you won’t behave strange.” “I understand you. You just want readiness in case emergency calls.” “How about other brothers’ of yours?” “trust them sleep had arrested their minds.” “So early?” “their day was tough.” “I reason, mathematics stress them.” “You also know?” “our mathematics teacher Mr Sagastic want each students he ever taught to understand his subject.” “I had it in mind I will meet him one on one. Do you hear?” “hear what?” “entrance examination to secondary is next week I have the form which I filled just now.” “How do I get mine?” “go to Mr Stingy’s office very early when he is in office. Tell him you also want to attempt writing entrance examination. If he ask which entrance examination just say the one of secondary.” “I shall do that.” “Paul prepare ahead once and for all.” “Thanks for your advice. Goodnight neighbour.” “Henry speaking to you.” “Oh Goodnight Henry.” I leap up, push the door fully open, close back the door. Cooking sweet rice exactly that of Mrs Fabian is my intention. College rules still stand cooking in hostel is prohibited. “Therefore this is useless. I don’t need this foodstuff, stoves I brought from my boss house. Food? Who brought this?” I check three foiled plate hot rice is in. Each is having morning, afternoon, night and room-9 is pasted on it. “That is good. Mr Thomas had eradicated old laws. This new law will save time, energy.” I pull drawer spoons I kept were, took one spoon remove the cover sealing the foiled plate. “This will be delicious.” As expected aroma from the food allowed me eat comfortably. “One plate enough for only me. This two is waste.” I crawl to my idle mattress. “Bed?” Mr Thomas countable reign had again changed my room. I expect to sleep on mattress which is now a decorated bed. I slept so early cock crow awoke me. Reminding myself for the necessary things is first every morning. I bathe quickly, put on my uniform, wore my sandals, buckled it. “Fully prepared.” Mr Stingy’s office played host to me. “Paul Collins can I do something for you?” “good morning sir. I came to make an enquiry if I can also collect the form for the entrance examination.” “Which entrance examination?” “usual entrance examination which is mandatory to write for students gaining admission to secondary.” “You trust yourself?” “I do sir.” “Boy where you not the one I saw at the buffet?” “right sir.” “Is Sandra fine?” “yes sir.” “Mr Thomas this boy is a good Samaritan. If not for him that girl may not walk to eat at the buffet.” “He is son to Collins.” “Collins. Collins. I recall that rich man?” “he came when you were in Germany.” “Did he ask of me?” “too hurry to even talk more. When Collins came here he was on his way heading for Congo.” “Collins Jnr.” “Paul Collins is what I call
him. Since Collins is his father.” “Right.” “Take the form fill it now.” I filled as I was requested to do. Next week dawn quickly. I sat in examination hall. Wrote what I know. Mr Adewale test is next in my agenda. If I do excellently well the Safari park must be my next destination. On reaching hostel I got an information from Henry that in a week time result will be out. For over six days I had not set my eyes on Sandra neither did she came to check me. Reading in library had denied me going to class. All I know is that Mr Adewale test cannot pass me by. Mrs Fabian must have ask after me. I won’t keep this a secret if ask. As school mother she would not wish bad of me. “hold on.” A bang gear me up. I open to see who it is. “Sandra how is everything.” “Fine. Your name appeared on the list.” “List of what?” “you are asking me?

  have you forgotten you wrote an entrance examination?” “Oh! I made it. Sandra rejoice with me.” “Mrs Fabian had already heard you passed excellently. She receive her letter of promotion as chief cook.” “I shall be in secondary section. I saw Mr Thomas we spoke at office of Mr Stingy.” “Mr Thomas? He had gone for his Masters Degree Programme in Germany today.” “So quick? I pray he should not stay for so long. Walk faster I don’t intend going late.” The school sweepers had swept every floor, some were washing the school toilets, others were cleaning each hostels windows. “Mr Thomas must had approve this before travelling.” “First time I have witness such in this place.” Primary four students discussing how one of their own will soon be forgetting all about primary. “Paul Collins shake me.” “Bravo I must do that even if I am stopped. Bravo be the class monitor from now.” “Me? This is big workload.” “Take things gradual as it comes. Secondary section is a reality for me.” “Mr Adewale is in class Paul Collins.” “No delay students, I should be on my way for an important symposium.” “Sir your test when is it commencing?” “any moment in three weeks time. Paul Collins active class monitor. Your class now look spic-and-span.” “Bravo is class monitor.” “Is it this naive boy?” “Bravo fully capable sir.” “Class cooperate with your new class monitor. Besides, how did votes went on his favour?” “I voted him sir.” “Paul Collins I am delighted on your success. You alone passed from the whole primary four class. I shall present you a gift when I return from the symposium.” “I wish you safe journey sir.” Mr Adewale started his teaching by explaining how a good environment should be like. As it is common of him he drew a chart on the board, our inquisitive eyes fixed rectilinear. “Safari park has this environment I drew on board for all of you to have a view of. Class work. Bring out your books . List ten animals that is easily found in safari park. I shall give only twenty seconds.” I created a version of thoughts; animals friendly, fierce ones, I listed them accordingly. “Paul Collins sweats over your body. Simple work to do. Hasten up I shall mark yours first.” “Nine remaining one. This is it sir.” “Paul Collins consumed thirteen seconds out of twenty seconds given.” Mr Adewale rested his head against his shoulder as he smile while marking my work. His smile shows I passed his class work. “Passed. Get set for safari park.” “Injustice! Injustice!” sixteen students that their work was rejected protested. “When I am back I should have your luggage set.” “Sir. Is hired helicopter on its way?” “Mr Stingy had arranged for it.” Mr Adewale wore his hat on his head, blew off dirt taking refuge on his specs. “Have a nice day,” he said. Bravo snuffled as he notice Mr Adewale had no regard for other of the students in class. “Paul Collins do what you can, I want to go to the safari park with you.” “Class monitor does not focus on only himself.” This was a hell of a beginning for Bravo as I vomit my mind to him. “Paul Collins it is must for me to be at the safari park!” “save your last word Bravo,” Sandra warned. Four teachers taught us before the time keeper jingled the bell. “Smile Paul Collins. In two minutes time Mrs Fabian will see you.” “My children is coming!” Mrs Fabian yelled. “Sit here both of you. As chief cook all salaries I shall be receiving won’t delay for once.” “Mrs Fabian very soon I shall follow Mr Johnbull to safari park.” “So Sandra is not going with you?” Sandra jovial mood changed when Mrs Fabian asked me question I must reply. “Mr Johnbull mentioned only me. I shall convince him when he is back.” “Bring their food!” “where you aware we were coming Mrs Fabian?” “I just prepared myself. This buffet I worked now has another branch not far here. Right after my promotion I no longer cook but only to supervise.” “Mrs Fabian why the noises around?” “Football stadium. Final will commence exactly ten.” “I apologise, I don’t want to miss little of the game. I shall come back with Sandra.” We followed other students at their back. “Take your ticket.” “Any need for this?” “yeah ... differentiating our students as against other students coming is the reason for the ticket in your hand.” “Sandra hold it.” “Number nine seat for you. For the girl number ten seat is also free.” “I have heard of stadium I don’t even know our college is beside this enormous fine stadium.” “Large crowd?” “So wide.” The gaudy stadium was filled to its capacity, thrilling songs of quick expectation from the welcoming crowd. Above us, glow weather was unpredictable. “Jonathan here too?” “I don’t want to be told how the match ended.” “So it is just starting?” “you came after ten minutes it started. One goal to nil. Our college football team is playing with no experience. Mr Adewale is our college coach. Look at him over there so worried.” “Oh!!” our fans shouted immediately when one of our player was brought down. From look of things there is a flare among the spectators. “Our strikers seems timid scoring.” “Paul Collins. I search for you everywhere. Mr Adewale had asked for you. Can you strike?” “Strike what?” “I mean play as a striker.” “Never in my life have I played football not to talk of playing in an important match like this.” “Our school shall be disgrace if we lose this match.” “How about if we win?” “each players on winning side will be sponsored.” “To where?” “football academy.” “Go tell Mr Adewale I will try if given the chance.” “Wait for me I should be back two minutes time.” Sandra is a lover of basketball but she believe since I prefer football than basketball I can spring surprise when tried on pitch. I left her promise coming back after final whistle is blown. I jog down, on my way, Michael stopped me while taking me to meet Mr Adewale. “Paul Collins put on this jersey.” “I will coach.” “Substitution. Substitution!” a worse performing player changed, I got in. “Paul Collins play well upfront.” “I shall not let my college down!” not too long I kicked the ball to my partner gusty rain pour violently. I became imperceptible by the opponents. I was ready in case direct pass come to me. Direct pass came. “Direct Paul Collins!” my firepower goal silent the opposition. “Good Paul Collins. I need mor
e goals.” Mr Adewale jumped around, his frowns turn to happiness. Again ball was passed to me, this time I slobber ten players with evolution knack, the goal post was my target which I did without an obstruction from the slender goalkeeper. “Goal!” drums were wildly beaten from our college supporters club. Frothy sweats all over me. “Latch onto that ball Paul Collins!” Mr Adewale not still satisfied with the two goals. My filmy posture never discouraged Mr Adewale from onset. Flawed and fickle human reasoning caused defeat for the opposing team. Final whistle blown after ninety minutes of play. Knickerbockers worn by the defeated team coach squeeze, unbelievable for the coach, he wept angrily against his players. Gloomy state all over Mangrove college players, supporters, and spectators wishing them victory. Mr Adewale ran, lifted me up, our college students sang happily. An emblem of victory given to me, dignitaries coming far shook hands with me. The impartial referee shook my right hand wishing better days ahead for me if I wish playing football as a player. “Paul Collins gold trophy for our college; Mr Thomas office will have this for anyone that want to have a feel of it.” “First time playing, scoring, winning I can’t believe what just happened now.” “You can hear this? Paul Collins had not even kicked a ball in his life before playing today.” Mr Adewale spoke directly against my team mates. “Paul Collins is a professional player that don’t need any coach.” Booed defeated Mangrove college players took all they brought, enter the waiting bus. Their unhappy driver drove off as he is instructed to go immediately. “If you are hungry Paul Collins, chief cook is coming soonest. She must follow five other women.” “To do what?” “serve you and others of course.” “Sir. This jersey I love it.”

  “It is now your own, also the boot.” “I own this?” “is it too big?” “too gorgeous.” Tint brown coloured jersey Mr Adewale gave me shows his love for me to be a future player. “This gold trophy will last for two years under our care. You made me proud. Our national dailies first headline must be about our college victory. Mr Stingy should have heard about our victory. Our college is best in Africa.” “Paul Collins your cloth.” “Sandra throw it to me.” “Paul Collins tell me the truth. You were a striker before?” “never.” “Then, where did that skills of yours came from?” “God surprised me when I need him. Watching my beloved college going down is what I will never accept.” “Hmm!” “I am dedicating my emblem to my late mother.” “How did it happened?” “I got to this city by chance. I search for job desperately that was why I am sent to this city.” “Why must you search for job when you are still young?” “mother was sick so I need money to keep her alive.” “I still don’t understand. Where is your father?” “mother told me he had travelled to Somalia.” “He should not have when he had family behind.” “I would say I am desperate to meet him anywhere in this world.” “Somalia is distance going to.” “Ship can go there?” “that region is cold. People going there die on their way.” “Help me out sir. How is this journey going to be if I embark it?” “sorrows, sorrows and sorrows if you refuse me.” “I must be patient sir.” “What type of job did you finally got?” “housekeeping job!” “Wonders. Continue Paul Collins.” “This is where result of my hard work brought me.” “I still don’t understand. Who brought you to this college?” “Mr Collins my boss.” “That your boss is a good person. He cherished you.” “Education is best legacy for him, working as housekeeper can’t make me educated, Mr Collins knew that.” “Can I meet him?” “he is in Congo.” “Is he a Congolese?” “No. A business man going for regional meeting annually in Congo.” “Chief cook is here. We have waited so long Mrs Fabian.” “Mr Adewale sorry for the delay.” “Paul Collins is now an hero.” “Paul Collins hug me. I hate defeat. That college deserved whatever happen to them.” “They were more prepared than our team. Luck is just against them.” “Serve him food before it get cold Sade,” Mrs Fabian commanded one of her co-worker. Spices on food served discourage me from eating because I dislike spices. “It seems you are not hungry Paul Collins?” “too much spices is on this food.” “Chief cook why did much spices appeared on this food?” “students coming to eat at the buffet enjoy spices in their snacks. Mr Stingy told my boss that we should not be serving snacks alone but also to cook rice and any meal, that prompt me to add more spices on food students demand.” “Buffet is where snacks are served. Now explain where this rice came from?” “restaurant inside the buffet.” “Is Mr Stingy aware of it?” “Mr Thomas knew about it.” “What was his reaction?” “well he did not say anything about that.” “Sir. Don’t forward this issue.” “Paul Collins there is no problem. It came as a surprise to see rice served instead of snacks and soft drinks.” “I may not play ball for the primary again. How I wish such competitions are organised for secondary students.” “We must see the organisers privately when they come for their trophy.” “Sir. This is my school mother.” “You should have told me when I am confronting her.” “I suppose but I want you to finish talking with her.” “Mrs Fabian sorry for hurting you.” “No. No. As assistant acting headmaster has right his boss has.” I stared eating when I have my appetite. Soonest all food in my plate finished. “Delicious meal. Can I get some more?” “Sade, is there more rice?” “I cooked food that is enough for two hundred students.” “Paul Collins my son, Sade would serve you. Meet her.” “I trust you mom.” “Mr Stingy is around.” “Gold trophy in my tenure, forever I won’t forget this victory. Paul Collins it had been long we had battled so tough like today. We almost come close two years ago.” “Life is not friendly with me two years ago. Besides, I focused more on this small stomach of mine and my mother.” “Poor boy mama’s pet. Prize money for this gold trophy is doubled two years ago.” “Players that played two years ago where they sad when our college crashed out?” “I whipped them on assembly ground. I got a call before last two years final was played. An unknown caller told me our college players had danced all night with ladies in Addis Ababa.” “Maybe the opponents framed it.” “I called a friend of mine which I saw during when I visited them on pitch on semi-final day. He confirmed it is true our college players had gone to night club.” “Did college coach supported them?” “he claimed it is a big lie.” “That is weird.” “I tabled the issue before Mr Thomas.” “So?” “that unserious coach was changed then Mr Adewale was appointed college football coach with immediate effect.” “That place you mentioned is not far from where my father is. I could had done the worst. I may had search about for my father.” “Is his address with you?” “I will ask even a tiny creature I met if he knew Charles a good man.” “Fatal mistake it could had been.” “But someone may had seen him before.” “Is it easy to leave your country, go far east Africa asking
about someone you can’t even describe?” “Frustration can cause that sir.” Large crowd stadium I played became silent after ninety minutes of play. No tone recorded everywhere calmed. Decorations had been blown away by low friendly breeze. Stadium maintenance had given authority to all sweeping groups to start making both seats neat and the carpet grass should be rid of dirt. I joined workers , working tirelessly. I never intend collecting anything from whoever shall be paying them. Mr Stingy sat on stadium carpet grass wishing doing same but he was not allowed based on his personality. Mrs Fabian had packed every plates used for eating. She had left with her co-workers. Students had rushed asking for me from securities watching over the stadium. I saw Bravo coming forcefully, I dodged him if not he could had asked for that trophy given to me. I mopped seat number nine. For years to come that seat shall be special for me as a spectator. Rain had soften hard part difficult cleaning in stadium. Mr Stingy pinched his jaw wondering such victory in a large stadium he was standing in. Mammoth crowd had waited patiently for me in college. Football academy certain but I don’t want it mentioned. Stampede almost occurred when I lifted the gold trophy for viewing. Jersey I worn demanded, I was almost like a worldwide football star. College securities denied access to whoever wants to touch our college gold trophy that is newly born. “Paul Collins shift back!” Mr Stingy warned. Most muscular students overpowered courageous security men. Mr Stingy flicked me, I backtrack running for my life with Mr Stingy doing same. Infighting occurred which turns bloody. I hid in college toilet. Mr Stingy was also at my back panting for his life. “I left my shoes while running away.” “Can I get it for you sir?” “angry students are unpredictable. Some may be dangerous don’t take this risk.” “Sir. Prowlers stay calm.” Situations protean from bad to worse. College windows smashed beyond recognition. “Paul Collins I can’t harm you. I want to speak with you.” “Bravo first assure me everything will be in control!” “trust me no one shall hurt you!” “he is lying Paul Collins.” Mr Stingy assured. “Here I am Bravo.” “Where is that coward?” “he had run away.” “Where is our gold trophy?” “is with Mr Stingy.” “The seniors in secondary section had gone for one week break. Anyone you ask when they are back will tell you I am good in boxing. Mr Stingy snubbed me after I told him I need a ring in this place.” I flatter Bravo just to lessen his angry mood. “Bravo I shall tell him myself, boxing ring can promote talented students. I know you wished to win gold trophy for our college.” “I must do all to follow you.” “As footballer?” “As happy traveller.”

  “Mr Adewale must be aware that your presence in safari park is necessary. When he comes I shall convince him we can work together in whatever he want us to do.” “This is a very good assurance coming from you. I believe I can’t trust anyone but you.” “Dialogue is best option to untold disagreement.” “Paul Collins you reasoned like an old man.” I sympathised with him, for once Bravo was not a troublesome type. All his fury, anger happened because his request was rejected. “Are you a lover of peace?” “I want it always. I hate chaos.” “Bravo can you assure me all your supporters will stop their violent noises?” “I can hundred percent assure you everything would be calm. All those supporters of mine you see there, enjoy football and boxing.” “I don’t need you to tell me this. I know that.” “I practiced every day, doctors at home once prescribed sleeping pills for me due to my serious insomnia condition.” “Rest for a while, your health should come first, Mr Stingy will look into this issue.” “You think so?” “Yes. Now he talks to me as if I am his lovely son.” “The gold trophy our College won makes him see you so important.” Worried by the menacing manner of approaching students I hurriedly call off discussions with Bravo. “Wait, I have negotiated for Paul Collins to bring coward Mr Stingy out from his hiding place.” Bravo deceived the worried students. “I have a word for them.” I lessen deep fear I had living inside me. “Hello students this is Paul Collins. Problems we have I can reduce it. The school managements will solve it.” “Paul Collins! Paul Collins!!” they toned. “Mr Stingy promised coming out only when situations is calmed. Peace first then negotiating table will be open.” I summarily counted number of them. If it was a campaign ground I have won their mind. Impatient ran over them as my words were long, boring, since what majority of them wants hearing is sports facilities must be created urgently. “Football! Football!” I know denying them what they wished for fresh trouble might occur. “Bravo get it for me!” I ordered. Less than a minute, Bravo appeared with the lucky football that brought goal for our college. “Yes O! Yes O!!” agreed celebration declared. “Paul Collins show them that style of yours Mangrove college can’t ever forget.” Bravo want peace. He wanted me contributing more. To him skills I posses can melt hostilities. I stare at them, I now understand how eager they want drama. I made an acrobatic moves, swing the ball to my head. For hours ball rested on my head which raises concern by the students that I might as well be a guru. Such drama had never happened in our college. “Prodigy! Prodigy!” they shouted. Raining me with lots of names make me happy. I now posed warmly. “Tomorrow we should all meet at college field, Mr Stingy shall make a very important announcement.” I convinced them. “Situations as this is brittle when room for dialogue is permitted. Can we go back now?” “Paul Collins leave them, each of them will go back happily.” Choruses arrested any hidden agenda from the students. “Paul Collins is our man!” Bravo said passionately. “Thank God this place is free.” “Prolix speech almost rend this situation at hand.” “Paul Collins, I want problem solver to be attached to your name.” “That is enough Bravo. You almost make the situation worst.” “Don’t think so. Mr stingy prevaricate when being ask about the way forward. This is lesson he had learnt.” “Bravo you can go now, I should be on my way to join you in a minute.” Bravo left, I went straight to see Mr Stingy in where he was hiding. Fortunately, he was in good state. “have they all gone?” Mr Stingy asked. “I promised them an address will be made on our college field.” “Have you gone out of your senses? How can I address them when you know how brutal they can be.” “Tell them the truth sir.” “What truth?” “no sporting facilities can be created until they show seriousness on sports.” “That reminds me, I disapproved any sporting facilities since last year.”

  “Why sir?” “gold trophy slipped away when we suppose winning it two years ago.” “I disagree sir. Disapproving sporting facilities can be a setback. Change your mind sir.” “We spent large sum of amount. In fact, this year amount spent is the smallest.” “Money attached to the gold trophy should be used for sporting facilities, sir.” “What type of facilities?” “football and boxing is necessary to be encourage. Good pitch, boxing ring, is their demands.” “I shall check cost before embarking on such projects. M
r Thomas must know about it.” “This money with you can do all. No need for consultation.” “Paul Collins $30000 money prize given for this gold trophy is for me. I am acting headmaster. Even the principal heading the secondary section won’t have a dime.” “Sir. This is not encouraging.” “Very soon the helicopter will land. At least, $15000 is going to the pilot.” Mr Stingy confirmation about that helicopter I was waiting for increased my hope. “Can I call the cops to dismiss them?” “to call cops to dismiss your students is wrong when their rights are denied. ” “Is true. Let us get into my car, I shall take this trophy to a safe place.” I ran into turmoil of thoughts on how it can be dangerous if my fellow students see me in their enemy’s car. “Sir. I will go alone. Bravo is waiting for me.” “Respect me, do as I say.” We ran backward, Mr Stingy opened his car door, we both entered. “Don’t be offended sir. I read almost all the students minds. To see me in your car means you have bribed me.” “Just an assistance.” Mr Stingy drove roughly, not minding whoever is passing. “Too dangerous sir.” “Paul Collins you called this dangerous...?” “An animal sir!” “where?” “You just hit an animal.” “That is even the smallest I hit daily.” “You had just beat a traffic regulation.” “I do that daily.” “Wrong sir.” Speed was much, I noticed tears coming out from my eyes, it began dropping on my lap. “I have gotten there!” “get down, Paul Collins. Be ready to accompany me to the college field very early.” “I shall prepare myself sir. Bye.” I was too weak running. I forced myself to walk further. After three minutes walk, I got to my college hostel. “Is there problem?” Jonathan who had been watching me walking weakly asked. “Mr Stingy drove roughly just now.” “Did he threw you away out of his car?” “he almost with the way he drove.” “Paul Collins go and have good rest. I love that way you use calming the angry students.” “It is mandatory doing that. Meet me early tomorrow at the field.” “I will do that.” I entered into my room not long after talking with Jonathan. I slept snoring. As usual dozens foods were kept for me by the hostels cook. I woke up late, began eating wildly. “I would solve more problem if given that chance.” I said to myself. I watch birds coalescing beside the entrance of my room. “Why can’t they sleep?” I recalled when I play with pigeon, feeding them whenever they come playing with me. Mother take it as surprise. Manor is what I named my pigeon my mother bought for me. Harsh cold killed Manor after staying with me for six years. As unwelcome birds come closer the hostel, I continue to remember Manor. “Oh Manor when I get to heaven I shall see you!” as if the birds knew I was talking to Manor that can’t hear me, they begin to use their beaks to knock my door. I flashed the torch, they refuse flying away. I now know they want comfort. I took all food I can’t eat, gave them one by one. I gave each enough water. Dew on grasses signals morning is by the corner. I started sweeping, singing about my late mother. Henry open his door, shook his head, close back the door. I continue to sing until tears dropped. “Mother I won’t forget you!” that ended the lyrics. I kissed amulet Mr Silas gave me. Safari park is all I think about. Mr Adewale must be expecting full preparations from me. I ironed all cloths of mine, arranged them neatly in my travelling bag Mr Collins bought for me. Students had started their morning prayers. Still the birds won’t go. I chase them as they battled to enter my room.

  As morning fully appeared they flew away. “I should not had chase them in first place.” I shut door of my room, engage into morning prayer. Henry and his shy brothers were busy also praying. I finish as planned. I went knocking all room door, calling every students out. Every seconds produce crowded students beyond my imagination. “Paul Collins you have something for us?” I turn about trying to notice where that question came from I could not find the student that asked me. “Good morning everyone, sorry for the inconveniences I may had caused, Mr Stingy shall make an announcement about sporting facilities that will be created soonest.” “Another lie again. We have heard all sort of lies, if this comes again as another lie, I myself will set this college ablaze.” His threat brought big boost among the students. Not too long, each students in hostel run amok. “Is he part of us?” “he was voted as hostel students representative.” “Sandra, I had not see such face before.” “That is Gomik. He has so much supports.” “Follow me Sandra.” I scrabbled cheek of mine, reasoned deeper how I can avoid another clash when it comes. “Have something to say?” “Sandra I believe Mr Stingy does not have answers to questions students may ask. Sporting facilities is a big project, I don’t think the money for that is available.” “Your life is in jeopardy. Paul Collins expose him before is too late.” “Expose Mr Stingy? If it happens, I am expelled already.” “Stand for truth and nothing more than that.” “I betrayed students that placed their trust on me.” “How could you in first place conspired to tell lies.” “I never did as you think, Sandra.” “Paul Collins everywhere your name is been mentioned as champion. Most students talking about our victory against Mangrove college never stop to mention dollars attached to that trophy.” “Hold it there Sandra. That is your plan against me? To rob me?” “Paul Collins why you? I can’t do that for once!” “$30000 I received for our team is not with me. Mr Stingy collected it, promised using $15000 to pay the pilot coming to take me and others to safari park. $15000 remaining shall go for sporting facilities projects.” “Mr Stingy told you that?” “yes Sandra!” “that is extortion. Big crime I may say ...” “I have no choice but to give him the money.” “Paul Collins tell your supporters what he did.” “This is not an issue Sandra.” “Other players that took part in that game thinks money they expect is right with you.” “Mr Adewale knew what happened. He will explain everything, but I also know he shall warn them not to tell anyone.” “Money for sporting projects should come direct from Mr Thomas. Mr Thomas loved football than any other sports.” “Actually Money had been approved for sports. Mr Stingy enforced a veto against the approval.” “That man I pray he should not be toppled before Mr Thomas is back.” “Any plan against him comes directly to his office.” “Paul Collins, his closeness with you signifies something unexplainable.” “Snitch? I will reject doing that a million times. Mr Stingy won’t hire me as one of his boys.” “He has already, his conversations with you tells more.” “Okay. I trust myself.” “I have a sweet chocolate inside my pocket. Do you wish eating?” “bring it.” “It had been with me for almost one month. Our neighbour back home gave it to me on the day of my departure.” “Chocolate as gift?” “Yes. Box of chocolates. I eat it regularly. It makes me to forget people I missed back home.” “Even your parents?” “that is only people I can’t forget when eating it.” “Really? so if it happens Mr Adewale list you among other students going, box of chocolates will also go with you?” “it will.” “Chocolate girl, your wish is to follow me.” “I won’t change it for
once.” “Bravo also hope to be with me there.” “Bravo? He will cause problems for everyone. Mr Adewale knows that.” “Sandra guess, who else will go with me?” “I, number two, then others.” “Others like who?” “maybe Jonathan, maybe Michael. I dreamt about it.” “I shall wait till that day.”

  A ghastly smile Sandra present shows her dream might come to pass. “Big challenge is easy solving if only all wiles in your brain can be tactically used. The special ball is last minute tactic I used to deceive all students protesting to have sporting facilities. As situation tensed Mr Stingy already preparing to vanish.” “Putting your precious life at risk. Mr Stingy did not even care about you.” “When boss return I must brief him of situations here.” “Paul Collins wait till you return from safari park before thinking of telling your boss.” “Why Sandra?” “he won’t delay changing you to another college more safer.” “I must keep this as a secret when he returns.” “Here since? We can go to field now.” “Sandra let us wait a while in my room. I can’t go to class when back from field.” “Class? I too.” Sandra followed me as I demanded. We both start reading in my room. “Bell must be jingled before all students assembled on college field.” “This book is interesting Paul Collins.” “It talks about animals, their characters and relationship they have with humans.” “I can’t wait to take this book along with me!” “to where?” “of course safari park.” “Chocolate girl, you are not even assured to go along with me.” “Stop that Paul Collins.” “Most animals I will see is listed on the book.” “I expect you to say most animals we shall both see in safari park is in this book.” “Sorry if I wrong you.” “Paul Collins ... no!” “Sandra our food is coming soonest.” “Yes. That is all I want. Including both of us as one.” As I sank deeper reading curiously, a knock on my door allowed me opening the door halfway. “Oh, I am Sorry. I had forgot it is you.” I collected usual food I was entitled to. “Sandra it has come. Take this spoon, eat as much as you can.” “I eat not long ago.” “Eat what?” “chocolates, grape, and I drain chilled water.” “Chocolate girl, that can’t satisfy your stomach.” “I will eat little.” Sandra swallowed full spoon of hot rice. “Hmm.. sweet food?” “That means for long you had not taste the hostel cooks food?” “confession time!” “what confession?” “most ladies cooking for our hostel never stop setting their eyes on you. I decided within me, I will not eat their food.” “So ... you had been monitoring them? Sandra do you concur this is jealousy?” “I don’t trust all of them, that is all!” “end this rubbish from now!” “then, warn them to keep their eyes away, from you.” “I hate to jeopardize citizens human rights!” “human rights? Lust, best way to say this.” “Sandra continue eating.” “Appetite limited.” “Is it because of what I said?” “don’t go far Paul Collins.” “Chocolate girl, bring it I must finish it.” I had read her mind, she take offence when told the truth. I could not persuade her to smile, she can be provoked. “Paul Collins I must change. I easily get angry. I am temperamental!” “Sandra animals had languages unknown to man. That book on your hand tells more of that. Animals in safari park understands nothing more than their own language.” “I shall speak their languages to them. Tamed animals shall comprehend my communications.” “Your communications should be simple to them. Some of them are inquisitive.” “Which one exactly?” “the cheetah. Fastest land animal of the cat family.” “It can chase us, if it does not understand us.” “There is fully alert guards holding rifles full of bullets. Wild animals can’t be seen, if at all tamed animals turn against everyone they see, just run for your life.” “Before running, I must cling your left hand.” “Why not right hand?” “difficult running holding someone’s right hand.” “How did you arrived at that?” “My brother told me. He is an athlete. A dedicated sports man.” “Is he your younger brother?” “I just know that we are twins.” “For that fact, your brother suppose to be here.” “He is schooling abroad on scholarship. A bookworm unlike me.” “What scholarship is he on?” “Athletic scholarship. His former school back home sponsored him to learn more outside his country.” “One on one, I shall discuss this with Mr Thomas. Good athlete is also in this college. They jogged daily.” “On field daily, they practice during evening.” “So you also had been, seeing them?” “Paul Collins if I don’t, then who will ...?” “Sandra you are not even serious about practicing with Sammy and the others. Maybe when you have left, Sammy may be looking for you.” Her face redden as she had one choice, either to practice basketball with other students and forget safari park or go to safari park and forget to train basketball. “I had decided to suspend any plan of going to train basketball with others. Safari park is what I will never stop dreaming of, the ambience, colourful birds, rare plants, monkeys hopping on trees. Mr Adewale is my last hope to make that dream of mine a reality.” “Sandra, take a look at this knapsack. It is used for short journey.” “Where do you get it from?” “In my travelling box, I saw it.” “I need one if you can help me.” “I only had one. I don’t know where to help you get one.” “I salute you Paul Collins.” “For what?” “all you need for that journey is already positioned.” “I prepared in case emergency comes. Yes, this torch, is necessary. Matchstick is useful when battery for this torch fails.” “Paul Collins, hang your knapsack to the field.” “I can see you reasoned like me. Today might be that day I had been waiting for. Mr Adewale promised me the helicopter shall come soonest.” “Can I also go and arrange travelling bags of mine?” “go in time Sandra, bell will be jingled soonest.” Sandra left, came back exactly twenty minutes. “I am ready as well.” 9: 00 on the dot. College bell jingled. All students ran out of their rooms, preparing for another showdown at the field in case they hear another lies. Each rooms were shut to prevent an intruder. Sandra and I walked alone thirty minutes after college bell jingled. From afar, crops of students making hullabaloos. “Paul Collins I hope you have what to say?” “Trust me Sandra!” on noticing me, the students start shouting my name. I could not believe it is me; a president of a country was never given such an ovation. I spotted Mr Stingy’s car coming, I was now happy he never disappointed. “Mr Stingy is calling you!” Sandra been a smart girl noticed Mr Stingy trying to signal me to come and meet him. I went responding to him. “Is situations under control?” He asked. “Yes sir. I am happy because today shall be a special day to remember, sir!” “what can be special about today? Do you know how I feel hotness within me?” that word alone, hammered me. Mr Stingy is someone not to trust. He had no offer that one can rely on. “Paul Collins where are you?” worried students shouted. I could hear some students talking in bad-tempered tone. Knapsack hung on my shoulder about falling, I pulled it up. Students watching me thought I want to train them football. Some knew what brought me and them. I was about talking to Sandra when Mr Stingy started his speech unexpectedly.
“Hello students of Wisdom college, I shall be snappy in what I want to say. Paul Collins open my car boot, something is inside. Bring it for me.” I went as I was instructed. I ransacked inside the boot. I remove boxing gloves, footballs, goal post nets. Accolades from students increases as I brought what is necessary. “What is this signifying? It is all about sports. Facilities shall be put in place.” “Mr Adewale coming here with boxes of cloths?” Sandra alert. A stormy noise of an helicopter was approaching us from above distance. “Helicopter! Helicopter!!” students shouting as if something bad is about happening. Whirl noises everywhere. Mr Adewale spoke silently to Mr Stingy, both shook their heads. Mr Stingy called me, Sandra, Jonathan and Michael. He told every students, four of us did well in Mr Adewale’s test. Sandra screamed out joy, her dream came to pass. “Paul Collins!” Mr Adewale called me. I was ordered to carry all boxes. I took every boxes inside the waiting helicopter. “Mr Johnbull suppose to follow five of us along, he is not coming for now. I am head, do as I say.” We were in, the pilot take off, students waved emotionally. “4500 km to safari park,” the pilot said.