Chapter Fifty – World Ending News

Time seemed to move pretty quickly. The handing over ceremony would take place in two days and Sly would officially be President. I couldn’t be gladder because there were other things for us to focus on.

I think I understand why married couples have children as a way to solve their marriage issues. They now have a reason to talk and be around each other without actually having to talk to each other. It’s genius – until it all explodes, of course.

“I was thinking that maybe I would like to head the publicity committee or something. I think I would be really good at it; you know. My sister is into media stuff and I know a thing or two about how social media works. What do you think?”

Sly hesitated.

“Don’t you think it would be weird if I made my girlfriend a committee head? Everyone would think it’s nepotism.”

I frowned. “But I would actually be good at the job. I mean, you’ve seen me work first hand on your campaign. I don’t think…”. My point was cut short by a call for Sly. I rolled my eyes and waited impatiently for the call to end.

I was mindlessly scrolling through Twitter when Sly exclaimed. I sat up straight. My eyes searched his for answers but he was too wrapped up in his conversation. He ended the call and sat bewildered for several minutes.

“My opponents have challenged the election and have brought an injunction to restrain me from being sworn in this Saturday.” He collapsed onto the bed and stared at the ceiling in thought. I was lost for words. What does one say at a time like this?

“Don’t worry. We both know that this election was clean. This is just a minor bump in the road.”

*

Carl could not believe he was in an actual studio. He’d been writing music and dreaming of a day like this and it was actually happening. Angel’s uncle had actually come through and directed one of the producers to give Carl a tour of the studio.

Angel was so proud of herself, beaming from ear to ear as she watched Carl interact with the tour guide. Then a genius idea hit her. Why doesn’t Carl record one of his songs. I mean what was there to lose?

“That’s not a bad idea. I have a beat that I think you can hop on” the tour guide offered, getting behind his desk.

*

Lara was staring at her bank account. Her balance had started to dwindle and she’d be needing cash soon. She figured it was best for her to ask her sister now before she completely ran out of cash.

Lara’s sister answered the call after the second ring. “Ei you!” her sister exclaimed over the phone. “What were you thinking? Couldn’t you have been more careful? Why didn’t you call me or something? Daddy is pissed!” she said.

“I know. He made that abundantly clear. Which is why I’m calling you right now? I’m running low on cash. I need your help.”

Silence.

“Lara, I can’t help you. Daddy gave us a stern warning that none of us should send you any money if we don’t want to end up like you. I’m sorry.”

Lara’s heart started to beat faster.

“What do you mean? So, what am I supposed to do?”

“I don’t know but mummy and daddy are leaving Ghana in like three days. You better figure it out fast.”

Lara suddenly had a headache. Her father was a very stubborn man and certainly unpredictable. It was clear this wasn’t going to blow over like all the other times he’d threatened her. She would have to go home and beg them. Ugh! That irritated her so much.

Kwame also irritated her so much. He was probably in his room right now, playing games or something and here she was. Men are literally the worst!

Lara was not the only one whose parents were giving her a hard time. Mara’s parents were about to put her through hell as well. Since the whole sex for grades scandal, Mara’s parents had become more protective of her; making her come home most weekends, popping in for spontaneous visits and monitoring her every move so Mara didn’t think much of it when they called her to come home.

Her parents were sitting next to each other with the TV on but it was clear they weren’t watching it. She greeted and started to head to her room to drop her bags when they called her back. She took a seat and one look at their faces told her that they were about to tell her something she wasn’t going to like.

“As you know, your mother and I have been very worried about you and we have some great news. We spoke to the registrar at Methodist University and they would be more than willing to grant you admission. We’re withdrawing you from this school. It’s clearly not good for you.

Mara’s head was spinning. She wanted to protest but her brain was too clouded to make any sentences. Finally, she spoke.

“No. I don’t want to transfer schools. I like where I am. I have friends, I’m doing well in class. I’ve been doing really well.”

“We understand but we think you will do better at this other place. We only want what’s best for you.”

“No. No way!”

“Marianne don’t speak to your father like that. This is not a discussion. We’re doing it. After this semester ends, you’re changing schools.”

Honestly, parents can be the worst sometimes.