Waiting For Timi(Ikenna Okeh) One who awaits the arrival of his lover, hears the footfalls of spirits. Timi means more than a lover, for lovers are meant for tempering the inferno of passions. She is my only sister, my beloved sister living in faraway England. The telegram says she is coming home today, and I have come to the motor park to bid her welcome. I'm not alone, Tagbo, my best friend, has tagged along to help out with the extra baggages that Timi is sure to bring. We had arrived at the park before the notoriously early 'akara' women had come to erect their roadside stalls in readiness for the early morning breakfasters. I had strongly insisted on mummy and Ireti staying back at home to get ready a reception for our gallant Timi.
Buses have come and gone, Timi never alighted from any. The sun has sped its course across the sky, and stands panting, a flaming orange ball, in the horizon. I look at Tagbo, he seem to read my disappointment. I notice the film of dust particles clinging onto his hair and lashes, giving them a brownish tinge, the effect of which would amuse any mind not pre-occupied with matters such as mine was. I look down to avert his eyes, and notice how caked with dust my sandaled feet were. It really has been a long wait.
"Let's go home. The last bus from the city has come and gone", Tagbo suggests with voice laden with concern.
"And Timi is not in it" I added rather absent minded.
Tears sting my eyes as I try to hold them back. Tears of not beholding my Timi alighting from a bus, smile on her lips, surprise in her eyes, at least that is how I had envisioned her ever since the telegram arrived.

Against my will, head hanging low and tears blurring my vision, I drag my feet homeward, Tagbo trailing in meek empathy.
"Why am I the bearer of such news that dampens the spirit?" I muse, thinking of mummy.
I think it is Ireti I see down the path. Yes it is she, for she started running towards us.
"Where have you been all day?" She asked, out of breath, a frown on her face and reverent anger in her voice.
"You have gotten every body worried, and Timi won't touch any food until she sees you."

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