CHARLES AND HIS TWIN SISTER(17)
Rachael gulped down saliva, standing motionless and thinking of what to tell her knowing fully well that she was guilty of what the madam was telling her.
Madam some things are better left unsaid. because the highest thing everyone would say after everything is ‘I’m sorry’ I came to buy akara. Please how much do you sell? Benita voiced out.
No naa. Don’t say that my dear. Tell me what happened to her. As for the akara, I’ll give you three for #100…. Madam insisted.
Okay then, give me the one of 500.
Madam picked the one of 500 with her spoon (approximately 15 but added 2extra making everything 17) doubled the black cellophane, tied it and handed it to Benita.
She was about giving her the money but madam told her not to bother but rather, tell her what happened to Rachel.
She cleaned the small bench that was behind her and instructed the both of them to sit. She removed the pan of groundnut oil from the fire and sat down to listen to Benita.
It’s a long story. From what I was told, she contracted a virus popularly known as HIV from someone due to unprotected sรจx. The whole thing becomes more complicated because we couldn’t find the perpetrator, we don’t even know who to hold responsible. As time passes, she began to experience weight loss. The virus relentlessly attacks her cells, despite our efforts to treat her with medication. Every time her doctor delivers her health update, it brings me to tears. I find myself unable to contain my emotions. I always cry…
Why now! Ehhh why naaaa! Chaaai! Madam exclaimed, gazing at Rachael and appearing visibility frustrated…
Madam gestured for her to come closer, and obediently, she did so. She sat Rachael on her left leg and they began to engage in conversation.
How old are you my dear… Madam asked pathetically.
I’ll be 19 next month ma… She muttered with her cracked voice, opened the nylon of akara that Benita had bought, removed two and began eating.
Two of her customers came over to buy akara and she rushed to attend to them and later came back. Just as she was about to sit down on the bench, two pieces of native chalk tied with white nylon fell from her wrapper. Hastily, she retrieved them, retying them securely in her wrapper before taking a seat on the bench.
She turned towards Benita.. There’s a spiritual soap that I can prepare for her which will help her to fight the virus. She will just be bathing with it till she exhaust everything. I no know if you go gree because me myself I no be christian..
Immediately she said that, Benita’s mood suddenly changed.. She cleared her throat, casting a side glance, and wordlessly stormed away. She left the thousand naira note on the bench without requesting any change. Hastily grasping Rachael’s hand, she swiftly led her towards the car.
But ma… Madam said she can heal me with a soap. I heard what she said… Rachael muttered. Madam was just looking at them confusedly, rotating her head sideways as they were leaving.
I know but those things have repercussions. She said she’s not a Christian. Let’s stick to what God has for us. Don’t worry about what she said. The Lord will definitely heal you. Pastor will keep on praying for you….. Benita assured, without letting go of Rachael’s left hand
But… But…But.. pastor has been praying for me and nothing is happening… Rachael cried out, appearing hesitant but Benita pulled her inside the car regardless and they drove off.
Rachael what is it. I thought you wanted to eat akara is that not what you’re holding?.. Uche questioned her as he was driving.
It’s the woman that said she wants to make a spiritual soap for her… Benita retorted.
“Spiritual soap as in?”
Don’t worry, when we get home I’ll explain better.. Benita assured Uche.
They got home and Charles was watering some of the flowers that surrounded the compound with the watering can.
Benita split the akara into two and gave half of it to Charles. When Benita gave Rachael her potion, she told her that she doesn’t want to eat anymore.
I’m… I’m.. I’m.. not eating. Give everything to Charles.. Rachael said, crying and coughing.
Please eat. The more you starve yourself, the weaker you become. How will you be able to take your medications if you don’t eat? Doctor said you should be eating regularly. Remember?…. Benita said spreading the nylon for her to eat. Rachael suddenly collapsed on the tiles and began vomited most of the things she had ate since morning. Her hands and legs were severely vibrating.
Benita accompanied Charles as they hurriedly escorted her to the bathroom where she continued to vomit, grasping for air..
