When I woke up early that morning, I found Ezinne snoring like a pig on my bed. Creeping into the living room, I quickly had my bath and immediately drove to the only Catholic Church in the village. When I got there, I found my friend, Kalu in his white priest’s garment, discussing with some girls.
When he saw me, he was shocked that he had to take off his eye glasses to be sure that it was really me. He looked different and fresh but I didn’t care. This man is a bastard! Immediately, he dismissed the girls as I approached him.
I could see that he was tensed but he tried to compose himself. “Chike?” He called my name with difficulty. “You are back! When did you get back?!”
“Almost a month ago or so.” I answered stiffly.
“Oh… Good…” He nodded, swallowing hard and avoiding eye contact with me. He was even beginning to sweat on his brow.
“I can see that you are now a priest.” I said, eyeing his uniform with disdain. “I thought you wanted to go learn a trade in Onitsha.”
“Well, things changed,” He smiled nervously. “The Lord called me.”
“Indeed… How’s Zainab?” I asked.
“Zainab?” He uttered, avoiding my gaze again. He was really nervous now. “Which Zainab?” He asked, feigning ignorance.
“The one you have been sleeping with and ridiculing this garment you have on!” I boldly said.
His eyes grew wide and I saw the guilt I them and that was all I need to see. I didn’t hesitate, I attacked him with a punch to the face and he staggered backward and fell on his ass on the ground. People who saw what had happened quickly rushed to the scene to restrain me as I attempted to beat the crap out of him.
“You are supposed to be looking out for her! You are supposed to be protecting her! Instead you took advantage of her! I trusted you, Kalu, I fucking trusted you!” I yelled bitterly.
I was so enraged that I tried to break free but their hold was very strong that I could only struggle. Someone quickly helped up Kalu who placed his palms together and began to mutter: “God forgive this son of yours for he does not know what he’s doing.”
Before I could get at him, he was guided into the church and when they were sure that he was safe from me, they finally let me go.
To be continued…
© Angela Okoduwa
