I Love My Life

Episode 16

Flash was really a lightning bolt, his speed was spectacular and his composure was firm. He swerved his arm tirelessly, throwing his feet upfront. He was actually taking the lead while I was still in the 4th place and 70m to go.

My name echoed in my ear as people who knew me couldn’t stop encouraging me.
I buckled up, with my head pointing straight.
I flexed my arm and stomp my feet hard on the ground, increasing my pace. I outran the 3rd placed and gave the the 2nd person a hot chase. My muscles were beginning to tear and my sole was crying out in pains but I ignored them and fought for the greatest challenge of my life. My name was echoing round the stadium… Stuffs like….. “Wally you can do it,” “Wally faster!” Filled my ear. The 2nd person gave up and I passed him with the speed of a rocket. It was just 20m left and flash was already flying in the air, only. Magic could see me passing him but I didn’t give up. Just few meters to go and something happened.

There was a loud shout in the stadium but I didn’t look to see what happened… I only saw myself taking the lead and crossing the finishing line. I looked back and saw Flash on the ground. He didn’t finish the race. What happened, I don’t know but I knew that someone swept me off my feet and threw me up into air while tens of hands caught me mid-air, they were my fellow athletes. They were hoping to get their own share too. I have won the race.

When I was brought down, Williams and Jegede came to see me, we shook hands.
Williams: But that guy run pass o. You see the way he was running like a cheetah
Me: God dey
Someone hauled me a bottle of water. It was Tricia. She hugged me.
Tricia: Congrats! You did well
Me: Thanks
She stood beside me as I gulped down the water at a stretch, feeling tired. She took my hand again, walking around with me. Everyone were hailing as the champion of the state and my head, you know what I mean? Swelling. I didn’t see Flash again,
maybe he was taken to the medics or he was somewhere around. But I didn’t put much interest to it… Maybe God actually wanted me to have a car without working for it.. Na Godwin ooo.
I was invited by the Governor and stood on the podium with him. I was really proud of myself. Tricia stood inches away, waiting to grab my hand at the slightest chance. There was absolute silence as the Governor took the mic to talk. I felt myself in the highest heaven.
Governor: It is done and a winner arose… I congratulate him too for his victory. He did well and utilized his opportunity at once and he is very fine too. I still thank all those who made it to the end just to celebrate with my daughter. I thank you all once again.

There was a loud applause in the stadium and everyone was hailing the Governor. The daughter walked up and stood beside him in the podium, she was beautiful and had a pompous character and her vocal chords were phonetic. I concluded she was studying in one of the universities abroad. Then a brand new black BMW rode to a stop in front of the us. The driver came down and handed over the key to the Governor. He asked me my name and I told him and a cheque book was prepared immediately and it was signed by the Governor with a letter of approval and was sealed in an envelope and handed to the Governor. My eyes grew big in bewilderment.
Governor: With regards to make someone smile in my daughter’s birthday, I have decided to celebrate with you all on this fateful day and I thank you all. With regards to the promise I made, I present this car keys to the merited winner, Mr. Sylva Wally Morrell… And the amount promised.

There was a loud ovation as I took the present. The Governor’s daughter was smiling at me too. I noticed Williams, Jegede and my other colleagues in school generating the loudest noise.
Governor: That’s not all. He will join my daughter to celebrate her birthday too and all who par took in the race will be given the sum of #50,000 for their willingness.
The governor shook my hand again and left. Tricia from nowhere jumped on me and I didn’t notice when she gave me a quick kiss just when Kosi turned to look at me.

The Governor’s daughter walked to me and introduced herself.
Celine: Am Celine. Congratulations… I hope I don’t miss you in the party
Wally: My pleasure
Tricia interrupted.
Tricia: I hope my boyfriend haven’t enchanted you yet?
Celine: Excuse me?
Tricia: You heard me
Celine’s mood changed and she folded her fist, ready for a scuffle. Williams noticed what the outcome will be and intervened. He pulled Tricia to himself and kissed her. Holding her tightly on the waist, so that she won’t break lose.
Williams: Am sorry, she talks too much.
He dragged her away, even with all her protest.
Me: Am sorry
Celine: You pay for this nonsense when you come….

She forced an invitation into my palm and left. I turned and saw Eve staring at me…