Lolade adjusted her headphones as she walked down the busy streets of Lagos, wearing her blue and black Georgette embroidered gown. Her long legs moved gracefully in rhythm with the beat playing in her ears. She cherished these moments of listening to her favourite songs while blending into the city's hustle and bustle. To the outside world, she appeared to be a young woman with a bright smile and a smooth, glowing complexion. However, inside, she possessed a quiet strength and a fierce love for her family.
After her father passed away, Lolade took on more responsibility than she had ever imagined. She became her mother's support and her younger brother Tobi's hero. Though it wasn't always easy, she embraced her role with pride.
That evening, she decided to take Tobi out for a little fun. They hadn't been out much lately, and she wanted to give him a memorable night. They went to a Marriott where she ordered her favourite meal: a delicious plate of rice, fried plantains, and spaghetti. Tobi chuckled at her predictable choice and joked, "One day, Sis, you'll eat something other than rice and plantains!"
“Not today!” Lolade chuckled, savouring each bite. The café was filled with laughter, soft music, and the clinking of plates, and she felt a deep happiness being there with him.
After dinner, they walked to the nearby arcade. Upon entering, Lolade felt her competitive spirit ignite. She handed Tobi a game token with a grin and said, “Ready to be schooled again?”
They moved from game to game, their laughter filling the room. For a moment, they were just two siblings enjoying each other's company, laughing without a care in the world. Lolade cherished these moments with Tobi; they grounded her and reminded her of the simple joys their father used to bring into their lives.
When they finally returned home, their mother greeted them warmly, her smile brightening as she listened to their animated stories from the night. Lolade noticed how her mother’s eyes sparkled with pride as she looked at her children. This reminded Lolade of why she worked so hard, why she made sacrifices, and why she loved so fiercely. She wanted to be the sister and daughter her father would have been proud of.
As she settled down that night, wearing her headphones and surrounded by the gentle glow of her blue lights, Lolade felt a deep sense of peace. She whispered a quiet promise to herself, to her father's memory, and to the family she loved so much. They were her rhythm, her melody, her song. And as long as she had them, she knew she would always find her way.
