LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 11

Dave was certain he was looking his best in the denim and black Polo Tees he was donning, as he checked himself out standing in front of the full length mirror. He derived a lot of confidence from showing his muscles any time he had the opportunity to put on clothes that afforded that. He smiled at his reflection in the mirror when his eyes cut the bold inscription on the tees. "Who Cares?" the inscription read. And pointing a finger at the image in the mirror he said, "He sure does!". He had little complaint to make when a friend once told him he took too much interest in his looks. He knew it himself, but it was something he could not help. His consolation was no one had been able to tell him there was an alternative to looking good. To him, appearing his cutest was an obsession he had no intention of giving up on.

He snatched up a red baseball cap with his name customised on it with the intention to match it with the pair of red All Star Tennis footwears he had on. But then he changed his mind and dropped it. He instead searched through his collection of spectacles and decided on a gold-plated Louis Vuitton eyewears. He had no need to try it on. He knew just how well it would look on him. He hung it across his shirt along the V-shaped button holes, picked up his car key from the table beside bed and crossed out of the bedroom.

He promised himself to make that evening's date with Kemi a memorable one for her. It was their first date. The lunch they had about a week ago was only for meeting up. And besides, Kemi was not privy to the arrangement that led to that. It had been just between Miriam and him. But Miriam who made that lunch happened was not involved in this evening's date. In fact, he had not spoken a word about Kemi to Miriam since that evening. She had served her purpose. It was going to be his game henceforth. He was convinced he was armed with all he would need. 

Dave stepped into the car and started the engine. But while he waited for the gate-keeper to open the gate, he remembered what Janice, one of his ex-girlfriends, had branded him. She had called him a big-time player amid other worse names, when the full intent of all his sexcapades came to her knowledge. And immediately a thought dropped on his mind, in defence. He played with the thought for a little while before saying to himself, "If I am a player, then I'm definitely a calculated one." After all, it should not be his fault that girls always tended to see the good in him and gave in to his charms. He smiled at what appeared to him a perfect conclusion. Slowly, he drove out of the compound. He had got better things to do than dwell on anyone's disdainful opinion about him. He had to be in fine mood for the evening. It was time to water the seed he had sown. The first date should be made the most memorable.


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Bukky had tried all she could to stay engrossed with her work throughout the day. Even her lunch she had ensured she ate at her desk. She wanted to steer clear of Ola as much as it was possible. In actual fact, she wanted to give him more than the breathing space he deemed he should be afforded. And she hoped that would be enough to quell the fire of his affection in her. It had not been easy but she had succeeded in placing thoughts of him on the sidelines for the better part of the day.

It had been just a wave of the hand from him and a mere nod of the head from her earlier in the morning, and that was before she had made her desk the most important spot in the office. She had not seen him since then and she had no intention to do so as she clear her desk. She knew what time he would likely close, and she wanted to be long gone from the building before that happened. 

She'd had a little reassessment of her own the previous night. And she had come to the conclusion it was no use fighting for what she could not have. If Ola's heart belonged to some other woman, she had to accept that and live with it. More so, it was obvious Ola wanted his space. The latter reason was all she needed to nail down her resolution. 

Bukky crossed into the office of Ngozi Obikwelu, said her goodbye and was out almost immediately. She looked through her bag and brought out her car key. She needed nothing, even as little as searching for the car key, to slow her getaway bid down.

Once she was convinced she had not left anything behind, she snatched up her bag and walked away from her desk in calculated but alluring gaits. She was thankful for her stance not to keep a lot of friends within the walls of the office, as no one thought too much about her leaving. 

Settled behind the wheel, Bukky heaved a sigh of relief. She ignited the engine and cruised slowly on to the road. It was difficult but she had pulled it off though. There was no doubt that it had been a daunting day. She hoped it would be easier the next day.

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 10 (You don't want to miss anything)

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Ola was all busy throughout the day at work. He even skipped lunch with his head and heart buried in the task of ensuring that he had made no mistake with the audits of the accounts of Jays and Co, a multinational firm whose headquarters was in the Netherlands. He had had to go over it three times to be convinced. There was a significant misappropriation of funds. One that made him shudder as he began preparing his reports.

He brought his wristwatch out of the drawer where he had locked it away, as he never liked the idea of checking on time whenever he had tasking assignment to accomplish. To him, time was a distraction. He was surprised to realise the day was far spent. And for the first time in long hours, he became aware of happenings around the office. He could tell he was one of the last people still left in the building. He could hear Wale Briggs biding goodbye to someone. He had no doubt to whom the farewell was directed. It could be only one person, and that would be Lily Okon, the firm's most hardworking employee for two years running. He hurried up with writing his final audit reports on the accounts. No way he was willing to leave work later than Lily Okon.

All Ola's efforts to reach Kemi came to nought as repeated calls to her line went unanswered. He was also surprised when he found out that Bukky had left work and without bothering to look in to inform him. He was about calling her but then changed his mind. He would see her the next day, after all. He double-checked to be sure he had disconnected all the gadgets in the office from the switch, stepped out of the office and locked up. He looked across the open office space and was not one bit surprised to find Lily Okon seated where he knew she would be. There was not even the slightest indication that she was leaving anytime soon. He waved goodbye to her, without a word. He wondered if there was any other thing that mattered to her apart from working her heart out. Well, if that was what made her tick, it was her life, Ola thought as he made his way out.

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To Woo Her... Confidence is Everything

There is nothing sexier than being confident and bold at all times, especially when it comes to holding up a conversation with a pretty member of the opposite sex. Everyone likes the confident aura bold people exude. They are often seen as attractive and positive. These are the people everyone wants to spend time with. But being confident is not a feat one achieves overnight; it requires both time and relentless practice. There are certain tips and tricks you can never overlook when it comes to how to be confident around girls. If you have always had the problem of lack of confidence, you need not worry as there are several tricks you can learn on how to be confident around girls.Consider Why You Can't Be Confident

Make sure you know exactly what shyness means. 

There are different ways shyness can be manifested depending on the circumstances surrounding a particular individual. Knowing the very things that make you shy is one way of learning how to be confident around girls and it helps you deal with the issue of timidity whenever they happen.

• Common reasons for shyness:



• Hesitation to speak in public gatherings



• Speaking softly or mumbling



• Skipping social gatherings at will



• Talking more than necessary as a result of nervousness

Change Yourself

• Dress well. Before you step out from your home, make sure you are looking your best at all times. Make sure you feel good about the way you look before you head out. It is not about wearing expensive clothes, it is about feeling good about what you wear. There is no single style that tells you how confident you are, but make sure you are wearing it well before you leave home.



• Educate yourself well on those topics you are most interested in. Your ability to interact intelligibly with others on any trending topic can go a long way to boost your confidence. Make sure you know all about what is trending to enable you make meaningful contributions whenever such issues come up.



• Learn how to talk in a mirror. Talking in a mirror will enable you monitor your facial expressions and know how you would respond in every given situation and conversation. Knowing what you might possibly say can go a long way to help you prepare your conversation. Smiling to yourself a number of times each day can do wonders to your confidence levels.

Think Differently

• Feeling good about yourself can have several paths, but do not forget that an inner peace is about the most important thing you can have. Once you are satisfied with yourself from the inside, you can muster courage to approach the girl of your dreams. That low self-esteem will find its way out the moment you learn to feel very good about yourself. The moment you stop craving people's acceptance and feel thoroughly good about who you are, you will be able to build up very strong self-esteem and engage in meaningful conversation with others. This way, others will begin to develop interest in you. This self-development may, however, take some time, but in the end, it will all be worth the time and effort. A good self-esteem has a lot of benefits to you as an individual, your profession and your relationships.

• Try talking to that pretty lady like you would talk to any other woman. Every pretty lady gets lots of compliments and attention from male admirers, so if you come across as one of them, you will only make it to her friends' list. Try to stand yourself out from the crowd of men who try to talk to her. Do not pretend to be what you are not. Pretty women get approached a lot and they can easily tell who is real and who is faking it from the first lines of the conversation.

• Do not try to analyze what others say too much. Perceived perception is one major cause of shyness most times. Most people who fumble in the company of girls or in public functions do so because of their stereotyped beliefs that people see them as being extremely timid, but in reality, no one has such thoughts about them. Do not bother yourself with what people might be thinking about you because most times, they are too busy to give you any thought.

        Remember These Tips

• Women love a deep voice: This one is mostly on the subconscious level. Most women will easily fall for that Christian Bale in Batman kind of deep male voice. Please do not try to fake this voice if you do not have it.



• With some impressive reputation in either social circles or academics, she would probably be eager to meet you. If you are some popular guy in some social circles, that would be an added advantage.



• Always ensure your questions are kept neutral and nice. Asking a personal question so soon can come off as creepy.



• You can also cover lots of ground with one beautiful smile. Try not to leer or wink. Grin genuinely when you are teased. Think of a good way to respond like, Oh! I already know that. I do not worry myself about cooties at all. I have gotten this year's cootie vaccination.

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LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 10

Ola had hardly settled into the office when he decided to call Kemi. He was not well disposed to the edge in her voice when they spoke earlier that morning. He also knew he would be starting off the day's work on the wrong foot, if he did not clear his mind on the issue. He was someone who did not like being bothered by too many things, and that was exactly what the replayed voice of Kemi was doing in his head. 

He slackened his tie. Something he did subconciously every morning, as a mark it was time to get down to work. He was pacing up and down the office without realising it, as he anxiously waited for Kemi to pick up the phone.

"Hello de..." Ola was just saying into the phone when the door knob turned and Bukky looked in.

 He gestured to Bukky with his free right hand that he was on a call and watched as she took a further step into the office closing the door as quietly as she had opened it. And immediately, Ola knew he was not willing to go on with the call. He could not afford to discuss a seeming relationship issues when someone was privileged to overhear him, even if he could with another person around but definitely not Bukky, not after the happenings of the previous day. 

"...I've just got to the office. Will it be okay if I call you in another fifteen minutes?" The cold voice at the other end of the line was still evident as Kemi said he could call whenever he wanted but no way Ola was prepared to give anything away. So he continued, "Alright dear, I'll be calling you shortly. Take care."

There was a click in his ear to signal the line was dead before he could lower the phone and cut the line himself. He tried his best to appear unruffled as he greeted Bukky with a smile, that was a real contrast to the state of his head, and therefore looked very odd on his face. 

"Good morning." 

"Good morning. And how was the night?" Bukky returned without making further efforts to narrow the distance separating them. 

"My night was good, thanks. And yours?"   

"I should say it was invigorating. And thanks for yesterday."   

"I don't think that was anything. You would have done same for me, if I was in your shoes," Ola managed but it would not take anything for anyone to detect the obvious tightness in his voice. 

"All the same I still appreciate the kind gesture."   

"It's alright. It's one of those things friends do for friends," he said, a poor attempt at trying to liven up his own mood. 

"Anyway, I've got to return to my desk. See you around as you remenber to have a swell day."   

"You too," Ola offered, a little out of relief. 

 Bukky reached for the door knob but then on second thought turned around and stopped Ola who was just making for his seat in his track.

"There was a look about you when you walked in, and one that's still there in your eyes even now. Something is bothering you, right?"   

"You mean in my eyes...but there's nothing disturbing on my mind. Maybe my eyes are just a little tired. I'm fine though, thanks by the way for your concern." 

"You're welcome. Alright see you," she said before turning the knob.

 Ola let out a sigh of relief. He could not believe he was wearing his emotions on his face. He was happy however that Bukky had not walked in on him midway into his conversation with Kemi. It would have felt more demoralising than this, he reasoned as he resignedly drop into his chair.

Bukky believed nothing of all Ola said. She knew him too well not to know when he was bothered. But if he was not willing to let it out, what could she do, she wondered as she made for her desk. She could see her immediate boss, Ngozi Obikwelu, just arriving and walking into his office, so she hurried her strides.

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 9 (You don't want to miss anything)

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Once Ola was certain Bukky was gone, he dialed Kemi's number again. This time he wasted no time in saying how sorry he was about the previous night. He explained how the previous day had gone but careful enough not to mention a word of any part that involved Bukky. Kemi's tone appeared to warm up after he defused her insinuation that he was probably taking a walk away from the man he had been having slept with her, what she described as the ultimate motive at the back of the mind of most men with a woman. Ola was hurt by the claim but he nevertheless reaffirmed that he cared more about Kemi's heart than her body. 

Ola's heart was beginning to beat normal again for the first time that morning as he chatted and inadvertently scribbled on the pad in his front on the desk. But then, Kemi chipped in that she would be returning to Esa Oke, Osun State, her place of primary assignment for the NYSC programme in two day's time. The development was two days short of the earlier agreed date. 

All Ola tried to make Kemi change her mind fell on deaf ears. Not even the plea that he would love to see her before she left could make her have a rethink. She countered that, if Ola was serious about seeing her, he should be prepared to do so at her uncle's place before that set date. Ola knew that pulling that off was as good as impossible. Well, instead of admitting outright defeat on the issue, he told Kemi they should talk about it later.

But for Kemi who had earlier given in to Dave's insistence to pay her a visit the next day, it was a decided case and no going back. And the fact that Ola was giving excuses where Dave had prevailed was doing Ola's interest no good in the ongoing game of comparison that was already set in motion in her mind about the two men... 

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LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 9

Ola would have been up very late, if he were not rescued by the amplified voice on the megaphone calling Muslim faithfuls to the morning prayers coming from a mosque nearby. He managed to mumble some few words of thanks to God for the new day, before dashing into the bathroom. That morning bath was unusually quick as he could not wait to be out, partly to get dressed in no time but more importantly to drop Kemi the usual early morning text. And then, he remembered they had not spoken for over eighteen hours. That was the last motivation he needed as he rushed out of the bathroom and made for his phone. 

"Good morning, baby," he got out as soon as the voice on the other end of the line came on. 

"Yeah, good morning." 

 There was an unmistakable curt edge to Kemi's tone that he could not miss.

"Anything the matter?" he asked. 

"Why?" she asked in return. 

"There's something about the tone of your voice, dear." 

"What about my voice?"

 Another question? Ola though shrugged it off.

"There's no excitement in it. Like you're not too happy talking to me." 

"So you really think I should scream for joy for bothering to call for the first time in how many hours? And besides, you hardly call this early in the morning, so maybe I'm just not used to it." 

"Oh dear! So, this is about yesterday. I'm sorry though." 

"Dunno" 

"I'm sorry, sweet. I really am sorry. My phone's battery was dead for sometime and I couldn't charge it until I was home. And then, I called but your line was busy for a long time..." 

"But I did call back when I was through, and you didn't pick up?" She interrupted. 

"I'm sorry about that. I was watching a football match when...," Ola began to explained but Kemi cut him short mid-way. 

"I thought as much. So, I was here worrying my head stiff about you last night while you were busy with some stupid football match, right?"

 Ola was at loss for an immediate response to Kemi's sudden outburst. He had not known this side of her character and that left him all confused. But he nevertheless kept his cool.

"Dear, I wasn't watching the match when you called..." 

"But isn't that what you just said?" Another interruption from Kemi. 

"No. You didn't allow me to finish my explanation when you cut me off." 

"Okay, now I'm listening." 

 Just then Ola remembered he was already at odds with time. He had to set out for work immediately or he would be late. 

"May I talk to you when I get to work, dear, please? l should have left the house by now. If I stay another ten minutes, chances are I'll run into early hours traffic jam." 

"No problem, do whatever feels right for you..."

 And to Ola's surprise, the line went dead just before he could at least give his goodbyes. Could there be more to this reaction than just his failure to call last night? "But I called," he argued with himself. He had never seen this side Kemi had just revealed. She had always been a quiet listener. Something had to be wrong somewhere. He almost dialed her line again but changed his mind. He could always resolve the issue when he got to the office. But one thing he knew he had no control over at the moment was time. He had not more than ten minutes, unless he wanted an undesirable date with being stuck in the traffic. So, he began dressing up as quickly as he could help it.

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 8 (You don't want to miss anything)

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Bukky knew all was not well with Ola the moment she saw him walk in, from where she was sitting at her desk. There was a look of worry all over his face. She resisted the sudden impulse to get up immediately and go to him to find out what the matter was. But she could not help as her eyes followed him until he disappeared into his office. 

Even though she had told herself she would keep a little distance between them, but the mood she had just seen Ola in was too much to ignore. She had to find what was eating him up. And there was no better time for that than now when she had not got engrossed in the day's work. She allowed some few minutes to elapse. And when she felt certain no one was taking interest in her direction, she got up, picked up a file from her desk and crossed out of her cubicle. The file in her hand was just a cover, should anyone be watching. Not that she cared about the gossips within the walls of the firm, but anything was better than giving room for gossips to fester. 

Bukky felt she was in the clear as she made the walk from her cubicle to Ola's office at the tail end of the floor, as no one seemed to care about where she was heading. But just as she was two cubicles away from Ola's desk, Segun Jacobs emerged from nowhere and they almost bumped into each other. She was ruffled out of her wits momentarily by the unexpected meeting.

"Morning, beautiful. But I'm not sure Ola is around yet," Segun greeted but the tease in his voice was evident.

 Bukky regained her composture just in time to respond to Segun Jacobs' mocked greeting.

"Morning, handsome." The disdain in her voice was at its height. "I can't remember telling you I was in search of anyone, by the way. So, where would you say that name popped out from?" 

"Oh! Pardon my assumptions." 

"You don't need my pardon. Maybe you should just learn to answer only questions you're asked," Bukky retorted.

 She was glad at having the last shot as she swaggered past Segun, like he was not there at all, and made her way into the office, much to the chagrin of Segun Jacobs, who stared on helplessly.

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LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 8

Chapter 3

Dave woke up with a start when his phone's alarm went off. Sleepily, he reached for the phone and turned off the alarm. He could not believe it was 6 a.m. already. He was just about dragging himself relunctantly out of bed when his eyes caught the clock on the wall. There the time was just 4:54. Could the clock battery be dead? He reached for his phone to be sure of what time it was. He was surprised to see the time was the same as what the wall clock showed. Why then had the alarm gone off before six, which was the set time? And it was not until then that it dawned on him for the first time that morning that he had reset the alarm for a special reason the night before. He smiled at himself for such a lapse of memory. But once the full import of the task that made him reset his alarm hit him, the last trace of sleep left his eyes. He was in no hurry though. He would wait until exactly 5 a.m. before calling the number which had assumed the role of the most important contact on his phone for the past eighteen hours.

He had read somewhere that the road to any woman's heart was showing her attention. 'No woman can resist being shown attention: show her this and win her'. It was a simple but effective rule that had won him a lot of women, and one rule he had no intention of ditching anytime soon. He was most convinced that he could get any woman he wanted, if only he played by the rule. 

There was no answer from the other end of the phone the first time, so he dialed the number again. It was a sleepy voice that answered him. He made the call as brief as it was possible but not without saying some nice sweet things. Nice sweet things that would make any woman go thinking for a long while after the call. The first step to a woman's soft part, as he had come to learn over the years, was to sow the seed that you cared and watch it grow. 

Dave had no doubt that the seed was sown already. All he needed to do was just to water it with patience and necessary care here and there. 'How many men actually know this simple trick?' he reasoned almost aloud. He had to be one of the lucky few. And the satisfaction the realisation brought made him smile to himself. He could tell it was going to be a great day ahead.

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 7 (You don't want to miss anything)

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And just as Dave had intended, Kemi was having a difficult time going back to sleep long after the call ended. Dave's words kept playing in her head. She was having difficulty shaking off the thought of rolling back the years. "I'm sorry I woke you up. I just couldn't resist the urge to call you this early to be sure the night has been kind to you. Forgive me please..." he had begun. She could tell by now that he had this knack for choosing his words carefully to get the desired effects, and she liked that about him already. 

Kemi just could not help thinking about Dave that morning, the sting of guilt she felt notwithstanding. Though, she still had not concluded if her feeling for Ola was love, but she knew it was something stronger than mere fondness. She knew she shared strong bond with him already. She knew she was building a strong affinity with him. Was she willing to put this on the line, a part of her warned? But a stronger voice within countered that no one should get hurt, if she played her card well. She only needed to be careful. There was no way Ola should get a wind of anything. Besides, Dave looked like a real deal and should be worth the risk. There was no telling that he could not be an upgrade on Ola, after all. He looked every inch that. She could be right or wrong. But there was only one way to find out; she had to get involved with him.

And that was it that morning, Kemi on impulse gave in to the thought of seeing what Dave could bring differently from Ola. The reality of what risk the wave of emotions sweeping through her portended was not enough to dissuade her. Surprisingly, shortly after reaching her conclusion, Kemi could feel her eyes caving in to sleep. "I'm probably doing the right thing after all..," she began thinking and not too long afterwards, the sleep got the better of her. 

The sleep was punctuated with dreams of Ola on one hand and Dave on the other.

The game of comparison involving the two men had just begun. The game where only one person was bound to lose out. And who the loser would be between Ola or Dave was only a matter of time. Or could she be the one to lose in the game? She didn't that happening. 'I hold all the aces, after all,' she reasoned.


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LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 7

Ola waited until Bukky was fully seated in the passenger seat and the door closed before he began what was to be one of the most daunting speeches he had ever made. He chose his words carefully in order not to come across to Bukky that he was rejecting her. He started by speaking at length of his admiration for Bukky’s personality and great character of strength for a young woman, and how strongly he felt attracted to her for some reasons he too could not explain. But he begged her afterwards to let all that had happened within the confine of the elevator earlier in the day to end there. He went further to inform her of how dejected he felt already at the thought of cheating on his partner. He promised to be a true friend but would love it to stop just at that, as his heart belonged elsewhere. He implored Bukky to understand his position reiterating his claims that he was sure that a more deserving man who would truly love and cherish her would come her way soon. It took all the courage in him to bring himself to look at Bukky eye to eye, as he rounded off all he was saying. That was when he noticed the unshed tears that had welled up in her eyes.

The eerie silence that filled the car as Ola awaited Bukky's response was deafening. The near three minutes' wait he was subjected to seemed like forever. His heart was in his mouth as his gaze was fixed on Bukky's lips, as if he did not trust his ears not to miss out on some of the words when they began to drop. He could tell she was struggling not to allow a drop of the welled up tears in her eyes fall. Her lips quavered wildly and Ola could only wonder if a hell of fury was not about to be unleashed.

But it was a relieved Ola who drove out of the compound some moments afterwards. He could breathe normally again as he drove home. The response from Bukky had left him surprised but relieved. Instead of putting him on the defensive, she had readily taken the blame for leading him on for that earlier afternoon incident. It was a reaction he had not anticipated. But the way the words had poured out slowly but convincingly was enough to make him believe he had not lost a friend with his decision after all. A smile formed on his lips as he changed gears when he remembered how Bukky had apologetically begged him to have a place in his heart to forgive her. It had happened all too easy for him.

And then it dawned on Ola that he had not spoken to Kemi for more than six hours. He slowed down the car, produced his phone from his jacket's breast pocket and dialed her number. But her phone was switched off. How he longed to hear her voice now that he had his clear conscience back.



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But long after Ola had driven off, Bukky knew she had not told him the whole truth about her feelings for him. There was nothing sincere about all her claims to him moments back. It was all a charade. How could she be sorry to get what she wanted so much? As she lay on the bed alone to her thoughts, she knew there was no stopping her from loving Ola until she had given all the fights and efforts it would take to sway him over. Loving him was natural. It was not something she had planned. Well if playing along as friends was all it would take to be closer to him, she would gladly play the waiting game.

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 6 (You don't want to miss anything)

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It had been a fun day. Kemi could not have wished for better as she was dropped off by a taxi in front of her uncle's house. After the lunch, Dave had taken Miriam and her to see a movie at the Mall. Dave had been all practically all over her. It had taken quite some resistance before he gave up on his offer to drive her home. He had made her feel like a queen, a feat no man had achieved in a long while. And more still, he had not been rash to ask her out like most men would have done. She knew he was only biding his time. But that too was cool. She rang the gate bell with Dave's parting words after she had given him her number playing on her mind; "You'll sure be hearing and reading a lot from me. Hope you're prepared for that." He had said the words with a lot of conviction in them. But as she waited to be allowed into the compound, she knew she had a job on her hand turning down his advances.

Once in her room, the first thing she did was plug her dead phone in. She had a feeling Ola must have been trying to reach her. Momentarily, she forgot all about Dave as thoughts of Ola permeated her mind. Would he be home yet? She hoped he would not get stuck in the traffic. She made it a point to call him once her phone came up as she undressed before heading for the bathroom for a quick shower.

About an hour later, Kemi with a clearer mind turned on her phone and there was no surprise when two text messages popped up, one from Ola and the other from Dave. Ola asked her to reach out as soon as she got the text, he said he was seeing a football game. Dave wanted to know if she was home.

Kemi was scrolling through the phone to call Ola when it rang. It was a strange number. She concluded it had to be Dave calling. But she was wrong, it was Tolani informing that she lost her phone earlier in the day and could only be reached on this new line. She had barely ended the call when another came through, and this time it was Dave on the line. It was a long call. And Kemi enjoyed every minute it lasted. Dave's sense of humour was really tasteful. There was something smooth about him.

Kemi did put a call through to Ola but his phone rang several times without an answer. She got a little irritated. Why on earth wouldn't he pick up his phone? After trying for several minutes with no luck, she switched off her phone in frustration.

Much as Kemi tried, it was difficult shutting out Dave's voice in her head. His words kept playing back over and over. His face too was all over her mind. Could it be she liked him already? She had to caution herself with the thought that a day out should not be enough to draw a conclusion about any man.

She was tempted to switched on her phone to call Ola but changed her mind. She was still angry with him. She reckoned he must have been engrossed in the football game to have missed her calls. And he should be punished for that. This was not the first time his love for the round leather game had stood between them. She had to make him realise, she should be taken more seriously than his 'stupid' passion for football!



                                            *     *      *



But unknown to Kemi, Ola though in front of the TV but was there with his eyes closed. He had actually dozed off on the couch with his phone on silence. He stirred up about fifteen minutes after Kemi's  last attempt at reaching him. And he was a little disappointed with himself when he found out Kemi's phone was again switched off. He waited in vain for over two hours trying to reach her. And for the first time in months, he forgot to send Kemi a good night text before he dozed off on his bed finally for the night.

And that one oversight of the night was to mark the beginning of Ola's struggle for a grip on Kemi's heart. 

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Signs You Have Been Friend Zoned!

• Talk With You About Others They're Dating

If the friend you like talks with you about the other guys she is dating, then this means she is friend-zoning you. She might be doing this to check your response and see if you become jealous. If she says the person she's dating is a big jerk, then you might not be in her friend-zone. However, if she genuinely likes the other guy, you had better be happy for them as a good friend.

• Tag Along Others When You Invite Them

Does that particular friend of yours invite others along when you ask her out? If yes, then this is one of the biggest signs you're in the friend zone. If she does really like you, she would want to be with you alone. However, if she's afraid to go out with you alone because she likes you a lot, then notice where she sits when you guys are out in a group. If she shares a seat or couch with you, she does like you.

• No Physical or Intimate Contact

One of the common friend zone signs is to observe if that friend has any physical or intimate contact with you. If yes, she likes you, but if she pulls herself away each time you touch her casually, then it's a sign of friendzone. However, if she doesn't pull away from you, but never really touches you either, you are still being friend-zoned.

• Inquire About Your Other Female Friends

If your crush constantly inquires about all the other girls you spend time with, then it could mean two things. Either, she wants to find out the kind of girl you'd like to go on a date with, or she wants to know whether or not you're available. This is an optimistic version. The downside could be that she might be trying to hint at you to see other girls and leave her alone.

• Appear Casually in Front of You

If she never works on her appearance when she hangs out with you and always comes out casually, you could tell that she is not interested in you romantically. In this case, you probably have been friend-zoned, so just back off and be a good friend to her.

• No Sign of Intimacy When You are Seated Next to Her

If you two watch an entire movie without showing any intimate gesture, then it is one of the friend zone signs. If she casually places her head right on your shoulder, you are also being friend-zoned. To check out if or not you're being cornered in this terrible zone, place your arm gently around her waist or back. If she moves away, then you know exactly where you're standing in this relationship.

• You are Her Shopping Pal

Does she often ask you to accompany her on a shopping trip? If yes and you often find yourself helping her pick out the right shoe, top or handbag, then you are being pushed in the friend zone. If not and she's asking your opinion of what lingerie she should buy and she isn't dating anyone, then she may be signaling you to make the first move.

• Asks for Your Advice on Relationship Matters

If she asks you for advice on what things guys look for when finding the perfect woman, then it means her eyes are set on some other guy. She wants your advice so she could do something to make that guy notice her.

• Shares a Bed with You and Thinks Nothing of it

Did she sleep on a bed with you without engaging in any physical activity? If yes is your answer, then it is one of the clear signs of friend zone. If you still want to try your luck, then try touching her when you two are alone on a bed. If she jerks you away, you need to back off for good.

• Whether or Not Their Family Knows About You

If your crush's family often inquires why the two of you aren't a couple yet, then you are in the terrible zone. If you know each one of her family members, then it is one of the friend zone signs because if she really likes you, then letting you meeting her family is a big deal for her.

• Other Signs that You Are in the Friend Zone

If you find yourself consoling the girl you like after she breaks up with someone, then it is a big red flag of the fact that you're being friend-zoned.
If your crush tries to set you up with someone, then it is one of the clear cut signs of the friend zone you are dreading.
If your crush did like you, she would try to do the things you like. However, if you end up doing everything she is interested in doing and are paying heed to her orders, then you are lurking in the friend zone.

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LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 6

The remaining hours of work that day was mostly spent thinking aloud. Ola found it difficult getting over the incident in the elevator. He was convinced something had to be done fast before he got himself enmeshed in a mess. How did he get himself in such position? Only a fool would do that. And what a fool he had made of himself. He should have been man enough to resist the temptation Bukky posed. Yes, it was true Bukky was vulnerable, no doubt, but he should not be preying on that. And besides, it would be madness to cheat on Kemi. The only one way out would be to put a stop to the web of craziness he was beginning to spin. What he started had to be nipped in the bud! 

The havoc that rejection could do to a woman's pride was not lost on Ola either. He knew he had to be careful about how he handled Bukky, otherwise he would end up making an enemy out of a friend. But how he would go about clearing the mess he had started remained unfathomed. Working out a way was proving as elusive as sitting his dead mother down for a chat. 

He could not even concentrate on his work. He picked up his phone to call Kemi, talking to her might help him clear his head. But he cut the line almost as soon as he dialed her number. He could feel a pang of guilt within. He was not sure his voice would not betray him, if he went ahead with the call. He decided it would be wiser, if he waited until after clearing the air with Bukky before talking to Kemi. But still he needed a distraction away from his thoughts, in the meantime. So, he got to his feet and crossed to the toilet. Some splashes of water on his face just might help. 

                                                    *     *     *

Kemi meanwhile was seated at a table in Browns Café & Restaurant at Ikeja GRA. Unknown to her, the one little weakness, or sickness, which she thought she had overcome would rear its ugly head again that day. A friend had invited her over for lunch, when informed she was around in Lagos. But it was not until Kemi got to the venue that she realised the meeting was more than just a lunch, it was a matchmaking lunch arrangement.

At first, Kemi had her reservation about playing along with the game plan the first time Miriam suggested she would like her to meet a cousin of hers. All her plea that she was seeing someone already could not sway Miriam who countered that the introduction should necessarily not lead to anything. She claimed she was only doing it to get her cousin off her neck, as he had been disturbing her since the first day he saw Kemi’s picture on her phone.

But all Kemi’s resistance melted off the moment she set her eyes on Dave. She had a weakness for tall athletic handsome men. She could not help running her eyes all over him when he joined them at the table. 

Dave Adeyemi was truly a hunk. He had a hint of masculinity written all over him. He had these big competent-looking arms that made him look like he could rough-handle the fiercest of lions, with his bare hand. He had a beautiful head that sat on wonderful shoulders, and his eyes were so expressive when they rested on any object of interest. And those eyes were firmly riveted on Kemi as Miriam got on with the introduction.

Kemi could feel Dave’s eyes searching into her mind. That was no doubt a proof of his interest in her, as far as she was concerned. And how she loved it when a man made her his object of attraction. She wasted no time engaging Dave in conversation much to Miriam’s surprise. And Kemi would soon realise that Dave’s looks was well matched by his suave confidence in handling a woman even on a blind date. Kemi even hinted it as a joke, but it was a joke she meant, when she stated that Dave was in the wrong profession when he mentioned he was a practicing lawyer. She reckoned that his good looks and suaveness belonged rather in the Nollywood than in the courtroom. 

Miriam Adeyemi had known Kemi for four years. Their friendship dated back to when they met at the University of Ibadan. Though she had not seen Kemi for almost a year, but she could tell that her friend had not changed much, if at all she had. She was aware of how Kemi loved to be the centre of attention in every gathering. She almost felt a pang of jealousy at the way all Dave's attention was focused on Kemi, with the two parties at the table with her chatting away as if she was not present. Well, it was good she had played her part. These two could go on talking for as long as they wanted while she devoured the culinary endeavour Dave had ordered. 

The lunch served the purpose it was meant for. 

Miriam got treated to the exquisite sumptuous meal she had been promised. And besides that, she had fulfilled her end of the deal. The game was all Dave's henceforth.

For Dave, it was good relief meeting the woman he had wanted to meet for some time. He never liked the idea of a woman breaking into his thoughts intermittently, much so a woman he had never met. And as he sat staring into Kemi's eyes, he could tell she would not need too much persuasion to get involved with. He could easily tell a willing woman. And this lady who was intently staring back at him was not too far from one.

Kemi on her part was having difficulty shaking off the thought of rolling back the years. She knew where this lunch would lead. It was only a matter of time before Dave would get the words out. But what she could not tell was what her own final position would be when the words dropped.

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 5 (You don't want to miss anything)

                                                      *     *     *

But as Ola drove on with Bukky beside him, he was having difficulty deciding how best it would be to present his case. His mind was practically befuddled. He could not just think straight for once. Striking up a conversation with Bukky was not easier either. His resolve while in the office was proving tougher than he had imagined. Worse still, he was having trouble looking straight into Bukky’s eyes. And yet he could not figure out what he was scared of. So, the drive to Bukky’s house in Surulere was reduced to occasional moments of which way to head as Bukky gave directions. He could tell that Bukky too was going through some motions of her own as she sat looking straight ahead. If only he could have a peep at what was going on in her mind, he thought as he let out a sigh. There would be a lot to talk about when the time came, though he had no doubt what his own resolve would be; that kiss in the elevator would be a one-off!

Ola was partly relieved when Bukky announced they were finally home. And momentarily, he forgot all about his worries as the gateman and he helped in taking the fridge into Bukky’s apartment. Bukky prevailed on him to have his seat at least for five minutes before hitting the road. A little girl walked in from the room and Ola watched all Bukky’s attention immediately switched to her. He needed no one to tell him who she was, as she was Bukky’s spitting image. He could tell instantly what a smart kid she was as he listened to the conversation between mother and daughter.

“Welcome home, mum. How was your day at work?”

“My day was great, thanks. And yours at school, my angel?”

“It was cool, mum except that the school bus had some fault on our way home. So, I was a bit late to arrive home. Aunty Jane said she was just about to call you when the school bus got here.”

“Oh sorry, dear. But hope you are all good.”

“Yes mum. And I’ve done my homework.”

“That’s my angel, I trust you.”

“Thanks mum. Do I get you a glass of water?”

“No thanks, dear. Mummy’s alright for now.”

“What about you sir?” The little said girl looking in Ola’s direction.

Ola did not realise immediately the question was meant for him until she repeated herself.

“Do you care for some water, sir?

“Oh thanks, Temilade. I’m okay.”

“How did you know my name, sir?” she queried with a surprise look on her face.

“Maybe your mum told me.”

Ola could not help but smile at the disapproving look Temilade gave her mother.

“Yes, I did. Don’t worry, angel, Mr. Johnson is mummy’s friend. We work in the same office. So, if I tell him your name, it’s because I trust him to know your name. Is that OK?”

“It’s OK, mum,” Temilade replied as smiles returned to her face. And facing Ola, she said, “Mr. Johnson, is that your name?”

“Yes.”

“And hope you’re not like the Mr. Johnson in my…”

“Temi…!” Bukky interrupted. “I think that’s enough,” Bukky continued in her bid to stop Temilade from saying what she knew was coming.

“OK mum”

Ola could sense the move was not alright with Temilade, so he gestured to Bukky to let her be.

“Temilade, come and tell me about that Mr. Johnson. I want to be sure I’m not like him.”

Temilade looked at her mother for reassurance. She didn’t take a step until her mother told her it was okay before she crossed to sit beside Ola on the couch.

“Now tell me about him. He’s in your school, right?”

Ola listened as attentively as possible as Temilade recounted Mr. Johnson’s apparent sin of being nice in one moment and going harsh the next. He tried his best to allay Temilade’s dislike for the teacher by advising that Mr. Johnson was only doing that to ensure that his pupils learn well and become better pupils. But he could tell his conclusion was not convincing enough to Temilade who surprised him yet with another question.

“Are you like that too? Do you get harsh when correcting people?”

“Em, em… I don’t think I’m like that. But I’m not a teacher too.” Ola managed to get out.

“I don’t think Mr. Johnson is harsh because he’s a teacher. People are not harsh because they are teachers, are they? He’s not the only teacher. He’s just harsh because he’s like that.”

Ola could not believe the wisdom with which Temilade spoke. Her reasoning was way higher than that of a seven-year old. He looked across the room at Bukky with a gaze that said, “What a hell of a kid you are raising!”. Ola knew he had to change the subject of discussion as quickly as possible.

“Now, are you going to tell me what class you are?” Ola said for want of what to say.

“You haven’t asked me that before, have you?” Temilade said defensively.

“No, I haven’t. So tell me now that I’ve asked.”

“I’m in Grade 4. Grade 4 Pearl.” The manner she stressed the word ‘Pearl’ suggested she loved it.

“That’s good, Temilade. I think it’s time I took my leave. I still have some way to go,” Ola said rising to his feet.

“Okay Mr. Johnson”

Bukky called out to Temilade to join Jane, her house-help, in the room. The little girl rose immediately to heed her mother’s instruction. But then she stopped in her track as if she remembered something all of a sudden.

“Goodbye Mr. Johnson. But will I see you again?”

Ola with a smile walked up to her and lowered himself to meet her at same eye level.

“Maybe you will, but that too will depend on your mum.”

Temilade looked away from Ola to her mother and then back to Ola.

“I know mum will let you, if you want to.”

“Really?” And Temilade nodded in the affirmative. “Okay, we’ll see how it gets. Happy now?”

“Yes. You know what, I can’t remember mum ever calling any man her friend. She doesn’t have…”

Bukky was convinced she had to step in right away.

“Temilade, that’s okay. You can go to your room now. Mr. Johnson has to get going. You remember him saying he still had some way to go.”

“Okay mum. Nice to meet you, Mr. Johnson.”

“Nice to meet you, Temilade.” Ola watched on with admiration until Temilade disappeared into the room.

“That’s some girl you have here,” he said once alone with Bukky.

“What have you seen? She can be a real handful to engage in conversation. Sometimes I wonder if I didn’t give birth to someone who’s way older than I am.”

“But I like it. I love intelligent kids. And there’s no denying she’s one. And by the way, perhaps she takes just after you. Who knew what you were as a kid!”

“Hmm… so is that saying I might be at fault after all?”

“No. I said that as a compliment. Isn’t it just natural that intelligent women would give birth to awesome kids?”

“And there he goes again… but when will you stop teasing me?”Bukky asked rhetorically before adding, “Anyway, thanks for the compliment.

It was not until they were outside and beside his car that Ola remembered that there was still an issue to be ironed out. And instantly, the gravity of it all again weighed in on him. But what must be done had to be done, he concluded philosophically. He had to do it somehow.

“Bukky…” he began “…I believe there’s something we’ve left unspoken about for the best part of the day.”

“What?”

He needed no one to tell him that Bukky was merely feigning ignorant of what he was driving at. He took a deep breath in before saying,

“Maybe you should get in the car while we talk about it.”

N.B: I really am sorry for the long wait I've subjected you to since the publication of the last episode. I regret this, even though it wasn't intended. I can promise a break this long won't repeat itself again.
 

Would Ola be able to sway Bukky's obsession for him? Would Kemi give in to the temptation that was staring at her in the face? Would love conquer all? To know the answers to these posers, make next Saturday another date on LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY!

Keeping visiting LOVEMILLS.COM and get your friends and peeps to do same. 

Love you all!

Thanks.

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LOVE YOU ANOTHER DAY - Episode 5

The game plan called for her to put a call through to the electronics store across the street for a delivery of a fridge. There was an assurance that the delivery would be effected under two hours. Bukky was satisfied with the arrangement, convinced she would be back at her desk before then. 

At exactly 12:45 P.M., Bukky began packing her bag for lunch. Keeping her excitement in check was proving a little of a struggle. The woman in her was telling her to play it cool, but heeding that advice was a big ask. To run down the few minutes before the official lunch hour, Bukky headed for the office toilet to do some justice to her looks. But one look at the mirror told her there was not much to do. Walking away from the toilet, she made straight for Ola's office. She did not have to knock as the door was ajar. Ola who was on the phone gestured with raised fingers in the air to be given two minutes, so she returned to her desk to wait. She was back in time to pick a call placed through to her desk from Ngozi Obikwelu, a senior audit manager, with whom she worked directly.

"Yes, sir... No, they haven't called back... Alright, sir... No, sir. I'm actually about being on my way for lunch... OK sir." 

Bukky replaced the receiver and for the millionth time wondered at her boss' name. The choice of Ngozi as a name for a male still surprised her even though she had been informed that it was a unisex name. Her boss was the only male she had ever known with the name. And when it played on her mind how more of a sissy Ngozi Obikwelu tended to behave, she reasoned the name must probably be playing its part and she could not prevent the sly smile that touched her lips.

"And what's that smile about?"

She heard a familiar voice say from behind. She needed not to turn to know who it was, but she turned nonetheless to face Segun Jacobs, the firm's HR.

"It isn't for anything I think would be of any interest to you," Bukky replied disinterestedly.

"Okay. On your way out?" 

"I guess that should be very obvious for anyone to figure out."

Bukky was surprised at the swiftness with which Segun moved away from her side without another word and disappeared into the nearest office. It was not until Ola tapped her shoulder from behind that she understood what happened. Segun Jacobs must have walked away at the sight of Ola.

"Right on time?" Ola asked when she was faced with him.

"I wouldn't say yes, it took you additional two minutes. And that's not too cool for someone who prides himself as a gentleman," said Bukky teasingly.

"A gentleman? Can't remember ever laying claim to being one. Anyway, it isn't in my character to stand a beautiful woman up. I was on a call with a client. He needed clarification on some issues. So, I'm sorry about that. Apology accepted?"

"Hmm...that would do for an apology, so it's accepted."

"Oh thanks. So, how much hungry is she?" 

"Hungry enough not to want to consider staying another minute longer here"  

"Then let's get going."

"Not before you've told me something," Bukky said looking up squarely into Ola's eyes.

"And what's that?"

"Do you really mean that line about not too willing when it comes to standing up beautiful women?"

"Yes, I do." Ola returned nodding his head as if that would ensure a better conviction.

"And would you consider me one?" 

"Are you beautiful? I'm more than convinced that you will fit anyone's definition of what a beautiful woman should be. Now to answer your question, you are not only beautiful, you are as well charming."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. So, shall we get going now?" 

Bukky gestured to Ola to lead the way, a move which he readily obliged. 

You May Yet Read The Previous Episode: Love You Another Day Episode 4 (You don't want to miss anything)

                                                          *      *      *


Segun Jacobs could watch every scene that transpired between Bukky and Ola from where he stood absent-mindedly in the office of the Admin Manager. He had walked away from Bukky immediately he saw Ola coming in their direction. There was no way he was prepared to risk being heard spoken to by a subordinate the manner Bukky had been going then. There was no shying away from the fact that that reaction was Bukky's way of telling him to keep his distance. 


But he could not help but watch with disdain the excitement that had jumped into Bukky's eyes as soon as Ola got to her sides. Whatever she saw in him, he mused. Well, it was time he kept his distance he concluded resignedly. He reckoned he would offer no competition for Ola's suavenees, if really Bukky had anything going for him. 
All he could do was watch as the two of them walked towards the elevator with Ola leading the way.
                                                           *       *       *
The lunch had been an exciting time for Bukky. For the first time ever, she had had all Ola’s attention to herself. Though it had been shorter than she would have wanted it, she had yet seized the opportunity to tell Ola about the story of her life. She had done that as briefly as she could but without leaving out anything that was worth being mentioned. And the manner with which Ola had listened without interrupting was not lost on her. The short time had been enough for her to draw another important conclusion about Ola’s person: he was a man with listening ears, a rare quality in men.
Bukky on her part was all smiles. She pursed her lips running her tongue over them as if to savour the sensation that had enveloped her all the time Ola's lips were enmeshed in her mouth, all over again. "Gawd, he was a hell of a kisser," she mused. What was that apology for when she actually enjoyed it. Could he be a shy guy after all? 'Being shy is sexy too,' she remembered reading a line like that somewhere. "God help him, if he doesn't have my lipstick stain on his lips...," Bukky thought as she crossed to her desk. She knew the die had just been cast. It was looking easier than she had thought.

The drive back to the office building had been rather quiet. It was the stack opposite of what the afternoon had been over lunch. It was obvious that both Ola and Bukky were lost in their separate thoughts, as they rode the elevator, alone with each other, to the fifth floor where their office is situated.

Bukky was playing back Ola’s exact words after learning her story in her mind. "I’m sorry about everything… But I must say this…though I’m not that kind of man who’s in the sport of putting other men down…but if all you’ve told me was the truth about your ex-husband, then he definitely isn’t worth you… but don’t worry someone who deserves you is on the way, all you need do is to open yourself up when he comes knocking..." Bukky had not been surprised but a little disappointed when Ola in passing had mentioned he was in a relationship. She had not been surprised because a smooth man like him would be any woman’s dream. She had been disappointed that she was not the lucky woman. And now remembering those words of his, she looked up at him with a smile. "If only you knew you fit every description of the man I no doubt need," she thought.

Ola on his part was going through some motions of his own. He was having troubles telling if what was going on within him was borne out of pity for her story or he was finding it difficult to resist the feminine sensual gratification which Bukky exuded. Looking at her, he wondered what crazy man would treat a beautiful and level headed woman, from all he could tell of her, the way she had relayed she was treated. And then he saw her look up at him with a smile.

"What’s that?" Ola asked softly. 

"What?" 

"The smile and look, what are they for?" 

"Nothing special. I remembered something…something you said."

Ola could not explain what seized him afterwards. But before he could stop himself, his lips had found Bukky’s. It was the ding sound of the elevator bell that brought Ola to his senses when they arrived at the fifth floor. He pulled himself away and offered a tame apology, just before the door opened.

"I'm sorry... I really am," Ola managed to get out.

He was visibly ashamed of himself. He was out of the elevator before Bukky could say anything. He could not even bring himself to turn around to have a look at her as she was telling him not to forget his promise to help her home with a fridge when they closed from work. 

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