Episode 2
December 23, 1999
Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.
The venue of the party was festooned with colorful balloons and fanciful ribbons. Music blared from the loud speakers and children of all ages swayed their young bodies to the beats.
The celebrant, ten year old Seye Seth Akintunde was dressed in a designer suit with classy dress shoes to match, bought and shipped to Nigeria from the UK. He was a handsome young boy whose winsome smile often charmed the hearts of people, both young and old but on this joyous occasion, his expression was anything but happy. He went back inside the house to the kitchen where his aunt and her friend were wrapping gift packs for the children.
Thirty-two year old Candy Richards was chattering away happily to her friend, Ada. She was happy at how the party turned out and pleased with herself for making her nephew's day special when Seye came into the kitchen.
"Aunty Candy."
She turned her beaming face at him, "Yes dearie?"
"Dad isn't still here, when is he going to come?"
Candy's happy features darkened somewhat as she exchanged a knowing glance with Ada. Ever since the death of his wife during the delivery of their son, ten years ago, Michael had become a recluse, shutting out everyone including his own son. Anyone would think ten years was enough time to grieve but not her brother-in-law who still couldn't stand the sight of his son because he reminded him so much of his late wife and all he had lost. But damn him! Michael knew better than to abandon his only child for years without even paying him a visit including such special occasions as his birthday. She had managed to extract a promise that he'd be here two weeks ago to Seye's delight. But two days ago he had called to say he wouldn't be able to make it. Candy had had to lie to Seye so he would be happy on his special day but obviously, Michael had found a way to ruin the day for the poor boy. She sighed.
"Sweetie I don't know, he's supposed to be here by now."
"Is he going to come? Is it because of me? Have I been naughty again aunty?" The tears were already forming in his eyes.
Candy bent lower and opened her arms wide. He reluctantly came closer and embraced her as she soothed him. "Its all right sweetie, its not because of you. You've been nothing less than an angel, that was why I organized this party for you." Even her husband, James, was a no-show. Only God knew the kind of men her and her sister married.
Seye was sniffing on his aunt's shoulders. "But why isn't he here?"
"His flight was probably cancelled or something, don't blame yourself darling."
Seye nodded and wiped away his tears. "Okay auntie."
(To be contd)
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