Lolade’s life was a blend of rhythm and love. Her days flowed to the beats of her favourite songs, while her nights were often spent gaming with her younger brother, Tobi, or hanging out with friends. However, beneath her bright smile and lively spirit, she carried a quiet sorrow from the loss of her father. As the firstborn, she was determined to fill the void he left behind, always prioritizing her mother and Tobi.
One Saturday afternoon, Lolade decided to escape her routine. She found herself at a local café where she could play her favourite tunes and enjoy her usual order: rice, fried plantain, and spaghetti. The café had a warm, mellow vibe, with walls painted in shades of blue and black her favourite colours.
She was in the middle of a song when a voice interrupted her music. “Mind if I sit here?”
Lolade looked up to see a tall, charming man with an easy smile. He extended his hand. “I’m Boye.”
Surprised by his confidence but charmed by his kindness, she nodded in response. “Lolade.”
Boye quickly realized she was shy yet open. Her laughter came easily, though it was rare. As they talked, Lolade discovered that Boye was a DJ who shared her passion for music. They discussed their favourite genres, and Lolade found herself laughing more than she had in a long time. Boye was easygoing and gentle, and Lolade felt an unspoken connection between them.
Over the next few weeks, they continued meeting at the café. They grew closer through late-night hangouts, gaming sessions, and long drives, during which Boye introduced her to new songs, blending their musical tastes. He began to appreciate her deep love for her family and her unwavering loyalty to her mother and Tobi. He admired the strength she possessed, which went beyond her beauty.
One evening, after an enjoyable gaming session with Tobi, Boye joined Lolade and her family for dinner at her home. Lolade's mother, who had witnessed her daughter sacrifice so much for the family, couldn’t help but smile at the sight of Lolade laughing so freely. She observed how Boye looked at Lolade, his gaze filled with admiration and respect.
Over time, Boye became a fixture in Lolade’s life, a steady rhythm she didn’t know she needed. He was there in her music, in her laughter, and in the moments she began to reclaim for herself. When he finally confessed his feelings, he held her hand and said, “I want to be here with you, through all the rhythms and melodies of your life.”
Lolade felt her heart beat in sync with his, and for the first time, she allowed herself to trust that someone would stay. She knew her father would have approved, and she understood that this love was different; it was as steady as the songs she cherished and as genuine as the family she loved.
Boye introduced a new melody into her life, one that blended seamlessly with her own. With him, she discovered a love that reflected the strength, beauty, and resilience of her soul.
