Unconventional Love - Chapter 10
Xenia Snyder-Collison
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Unconventional Love - Chapter 10

Xenia Snyder-Collison
@xeniasnydercollison751687

4 days ago

A HELPING HAND

She stepped into AfroMane Hair Studio, where the familiar scent of hair products and the sound of lively chatter greeted her. Yvonne Ofori, the talented hairstylist, flashed a warm smile as she recognized Ursula.

“Good morning, Sister Yvonne. Long time, no see. How have you been?” Ursula greeted her, settling into the salon chair.

Yvonne beamed with delight at the sight of her old friend. “Ursula! I’m doing well, thank you. I actually went to the village to see my ailing mother recently. It’s been tough. I miss styling your lovely hair!”

“Aww, I hope she gets better soon. And yeah, I have missed your hairstyling services too,” Ursula replied.

While Yvonne worked her magic on Ursula’s hair, the young woman’s thoughts wandered to her dear friend, Malcolm, and his mother, Auntie Barbara.

After the salon visit, Ursula decided to pick up some groceries at a nearby mini-market before heading to Malcolm’s place. She carefully selected fresh produce, mindful of Auntie Barbara’s dietary preferences.

“Good morning, I need a bag of groceries. I’ll buy that big tuber of yam, a bundle of ‘Nkontomire’, some onions, a sachet of tomato paste, a bottle of palm oil …,” she listed her purchases to the shopkeeper.

Once her shopping was complete, she stepped outside and immediately dialled Malcolm’s number. He answered with warmth in his voice.

“Hello, Ursula. How are you?” Malcolm greeted. “By God’s grace, I’m doing well. I’m finally available to visit your mum, now that she’s been discharged. Can you give me directions to your house?” Ursula replied, her eagerness evident.

“Oh okay. Where are you right now?” “I’m at the junction by the Total Filling Station, just opposite ‘God is my Refuge’ mini-market. Can you guide me from here?” Ursula inquired.

“Okay, great. Head down the main road towards the taxi rank. Board one taxi and alight at Jemima Medical Centre. When you get to the junction, turn left and follow the road until you reach the yellow house with the red roof. That’s my place,” Malcolm provided the directions.

“Okay, got it. Thanks. I’ll see you soon,” Ursula confirmed. “No problem. Thank you so much for the effort. My mum will be thrilled to see you,” Malcolm expressed his gratitude sincerely.

“I’m sure she will”, she smiled and hung up. As she made her way to the taxi rank, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of purpose in her heart.

At the taxi rank, she hailed a taxi and embarked on her journey to visit Malcolm and Auntie Barbara. During the ride, she took a moment to inform her mother about her plans, feeling grateful for the independence she had gained.

“We have arrived. That will be five cedis,” the taxi driver announced as they reached Jemima Medical Centre.

Ursula paid the fare and stepped out of the taxi, taking in her surroundings. She followed Malcolm’s instructions, making her way towards the yellow house with the red roof.

Upon reaching the house, her heart skipped a beat. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door. The door opened, revealing Malcolm’s smiling face. “You made it!” he exclaimed, warmly welcoming his friend.

“Of course I did. You gave great directions,” Ursula replied as she stepped into Malcolm’s house.

“Come in and have a seat. Oh, I like your hairstyle. It suits you well,” Malcolm complimented, admiring her hair.

“Thank you. So, how have you been?” Ursula asked. “I’m doing well, thanks for asking,” Malcolm replied, leading Ursula towards the living room. In the living room, Barbara sat on the sofa, her smile bittersweet as she welcomed Ursula.

“Hello, Auntie Barbara. How are you feeling?” Ursula asked, approaching her with care. “I’m holding up, dear. Thank you for asking,” Barbara responded with gratitude in her voice.

As Ursula observed the living room, she noticed the dishevelled state of the kitchen through an open door. “I see it’s been tough. Why don't I cook some yam and ‘palava’ sauce for you guys? I bought some foodstuffs on my way here,” Ursula offered, eager to lend a helping hand.

“That would be amazing! Thank you, Ursula,” Malcolm expressed his gratitude, relieved by her thoughtful gesture. In the kitchen, Ursula skillfully prepared the yam and ‘nkontomire,’ quickly turning the ingredients into a delicious meal. The aroma filled the air, promising a delightful feast.

As they all sat down to eat, Ursula felt a sense of contentment. Seeing Barbara’s smile as she savoured the food brought warmth to her heart. After the meal, Ursula cleared the dishes and swept the floors, determined to make the house more comfortable for Malcolm and his mother.

“Ursula, you didn’t have to do all this. We appreciate your help,” Malcolm said, touched by her efforts. “It’s my pleasure. I’m happy to lend a hand,” Ursula replied, her smile reflecting her sincerity.

“Thank you, dear. You’ve made my day,” Barbara said, her voice tinged with emotion. Ursula and Malcolm washed the dishes together. They worked in perfect harmony, a testament to the deep friendship they had formed.

“We make a good team, don’t we?” Malcolm remarked, his eyes shining with appreciation. “Definitely,” Ursula agreed, feeling a sense of joy in their shared camaraderie.

As the day drew to a close, Ursula knew it was time to bid farewell. She felt a sense of fulfilment in her heart, knowing that she had brought a ray of sunshine to Barbara’s life.

"Well, I’d better head home now. Take care, Malcolm. Goodbye, Auntie Barbara,” Ursula said, preparing to leave.

“Thank you, Ursula, for everything. We’re grateful for your support,” Malcolm expressed his heartfelt gratitude.

“You have a kind heart, my dear. Thank you,” Barbara added, her eyes shining with appreciation. Ursula returned to her own home, carrying with her the memories of a day well-spent.

#uncoventionallove
#novel
#chapterten

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