Chapter 7: The Handkerchief and the Chase

After I change, I rush go back garden.

I fixed my head high, determined not to let gossip spoil my day. The scent of flowers greeted me like an old friend.

Suddenly, people dey cheer and laugh as some young noblemen arrive.

The air buzzed with excitement. Drums beat faster, girls pressed forward, giggling behind their fans.

From far, I spot one familiar figure.

He stood taller than the rest, his agbada a rich indigo, the golden sash catching the light. My breath caught in my throat.

My heart jump, I walk fast, only to hear Halima Jinadu’s shy voice: “Your Highness, this one no good.”

Her tone was soft, coy, making everyone lean closer to listen.

I stop.

My steps faltered, hope draining away.

Auwalu dey in front, breaking one fine hibiscus and pinning it for Halima Jinadu’s hair.

He moved gently, his fingers careful. The crowd oohed, some even clapped. My heart squeezed tight.

Bitter feeling just wash me.

Jealousy, sharp and green, twisted inside me. I felt foolish for ever hoping.

The two of them dey look each other, like say nobody else dey.

It was as if the whole world melted away, leaving only their smiles, their shared secret.

Fine man, fine woman—perfect match.

Their beauty together was almost painful, like sunlight in harmattan.

“This hibiscus fit you well, Miss Jinadu.”

His voice was gentle, a tone I remembered from another life.

Auwalu smile, gentle.

I remembered that smile—it was the same one he used to give me, full of warmth and tenderness.

Last life, when he play with me, na so he dey smile at me—full of love and pity.

Memories crashed over me, sweet and bitter together. Was I just a shadow now?

I squeezed my handkerchief, run comot.

Sand dey enter my sandals as I run, sweat prick my forehead, shame hot like pepper.

Halima Jinadu call me, as if on purpose.

Her voice rang out, sweet but with an edge. "Ronke, wait!"

Auwalu look up, eyes calm, voice gentle. “Miss Ronke, you drop your handkerchief.”

He held it out, his face unreadable. I felt eyes on me from all sides.

I quickly pick am and waka comot from the back garden.

I kept my head down, fighting tears. The laughter and chatter faded behind me.

When I calm down, I check the handkerchief, panic catch me again.

It wasn’t even mine—embroidered initials I didn’t recognise. My hands shook, heart pounding.

I no even know who get am.

A wave of shame washed over me. I couldn’t even hold onto my own things.

I just throw am inside the fish pond.

It floated briefly before sinking. I watched it disappear, feeling strangely empty.

As I wan relax, one teasing voice come from back. “Why this young lady throw my handkerchief inside pond?”

The voice was playful, familiar in a way that made my heart skip.

I turn, our eyes jam.

He stood there, arms crossed, a mischievous grin on his face. The sun caught in his eyes, making them gleam.

He freeze small, fingers curl, small red show for his brown face.

His smile faded for a moment, and I saw something vulnerable flicker there.

I no even bother to explain.

I shook my head, turning away before the tears could fall.

I just run go. Behind me, laughter dey chase me like bad luck. My heart heavy, but I no stop.