SHADOWS OF DECEIT
Episode 3
Chidi sat in the waiting room, flipping through a worn copy of a magazine. He had been putting off this visit for weeks, but Obinna’s words kept echoing in his mind: “Take care of yourself, Chidi.”
Finally, the nurse called his name, and he stood up, smoothing his wrinkled clothes. Dr. Ngozi, his personal doctor, greeted him warmly and led him to her office.
“Chidi, how are you?” she asked, concern etched on her face.
Chidi shrugged. “I’m managing, Doc. Still trying to wrap my head around everything.”
Dr. Ngozi nodded sympathetically. “I can imagine. But I’m not here to talk about Nneoma today. I’m here to talk about you.”
Chidi raised an eyebrow. “Me?”
“Yes, you,” Dr. Ngozi said with a smile. “Your test results show that your sperm count is still low,about 30%, but that’s not the only issue. Your overall health is suffering. You’re stressed, you’re not eating well…it’s a miracle you’re still standing.”
Chidi chuckled wryly. “I guess I am.”
Dr. Ngozi leaned forward, her eyes serious. “Chidi, I want you to start taking care of yourself. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains. Exercise regularly. Get enough sleep. And most importantly, reduce your stress levels.”
Chidi nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. “I can do that, Doc. I will do that.”
Dr. Ngozi smiled, patting his hand. “I know you will, Chidi. And I’ll be here to support you every step of the way.”
As Chidi left the doctor’s office, he felt a sense of hope that he hadn’t felt in weeks. Maybe, just maybe, this was the start of a new chapter in his life.
As he left the doctor’s office, driving home, Chidi noticed a lady selling fruits by the roadside. He pulled over, intrigued by the vibrant colors and freshness of the produce. After exchanging warm greetings, he selected a few fruits and engaged in small talk with the lady.
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and Chidi found himself laughing and feeling at ease. He asked if she was a regular vendor in the area, and she replied with a smile, “Yes, I’m here every day.”
Chidi’s face lit up with a warm smile. “I’ll be coming back often, then. You’re too friendly to pass up.” The lady chuckled and mentioned that she had a rider who could deliver fruits to his doorstep whenever he wanted.
Chidi’s eyes widened with delight. “That’s amazing! I’d love that.” He agreed to the arrangement and shared his address with her. As they wrapped up their conversation, he asked for her name.
“I’m Grace,” she replied, her smile radiant.
Chidi left with a spring in his step, feeling grateful for the chance encounter. He looked forward to his next visit and the opportunity to see Grace again.
As Chidi drove home , he couldn’t wait to share his encounter with Grace, the fruit seller, with his friend Obinna. He pulled over and dialed Obinna’s number.
“Hey, man! Guess what just happened?” Chidi exclaimed as soon as Obinna answered.
“What’s up?” Obinna replied, his voice curious.
“I stopped to buy fruits from this lady, and we started chatting. She’s so friendly and warm! ,” Chidi said, barely containing his excitement.
Obinna chuckled. “That’s convenient. But what’s got you so excited? You sound like a schoolboy with a crush.”
Chidi laughed. “Shut up, Obinna! I’m just happy to have met someone who makes me feel good, that’s all. And her name is Grace, by the way.”
Obinna’s tone turned serious. “I’m glad for you, Chidi. You deserve some happiness. Keep me posted on how things go with Grace, okay?”
Chidi grinned, feeling grateful for his friend’s support. “Will do, Obinna. Thanks for listening, man.”
As they wrapped up their call, Chidi felt a sense of joy and anticipation. He looked forward to his next encounter with Grace and the possibility of a new friendship.
To be continued…..
