My Medschool Ride: Year One

Chapter Two: Portharcourt

I honestly found it hard to have a good sleep last night. But how could I? A week got past like a breeze and now the day was finally here. I was actually leaving home behind to start school life at Portharcourt. It was beyond exciting, but at the same time also scary. I mean, I haven't really lived on my own before. I didn't know what to expect, but I knew I wanted to have that experience of real freedom.

Yesterday I went shopping for a few essentials with my mom. I got myself some new undies, a pair of shoe and a new wristwatch. Mom and Dad decided I will get other important things at Portharcourt when I've settled down so I don't have to carry too much during my journey.

I checked my new brown wristwatch. It was 5:30 AM. I stared out through the window of our moving car. Outside is bustling as expected, with people going about their normal activities even though it's relatively really early in the morning. I will definitely miss Lagos state, but I've heard that Portharcourt was relatively quiet compared to Lagos so I was looking forward to spending a long time there.

I moved my head to face the road ahead and I just couldn't help but feel the pain from the new braids I got two days ago.

Dad made a right turn and started heading towards the park where I'm to board a bus to Portharcourt.

"Hope you didn't forget anything at home?" Mom asked from the front seat. I really don't know what she derived from repeating that same question over and over again.

I palmed my face. "Yes, Mommy."

"Okay o."

"But, Darling, how many times are you going to ask her that same question?" Dad asked from the drivers seat.

"It's just for confirmation," Mom said.

Dad laughed at Mom's response before stopping the car in front of an eatery in the park. We all got down and Dad helped me to get my things from the boot. I was carrying a big leather bag and my school bag. We all went to the registration point together and I paid for my ticket.

"The bus should start moving in about thirty minutes time," Dad said after checking the time on his phone.

"Don't stay hungry. Is the rice and stew I packed for you, okay?" Mom asked.

"I will. Thank you for the food, and the drink too," I said with a big smile. Mom's food was always delicious. It was unbelievable that I'll not get to be eating her food for a long time.

"Remember everything we discussed about. Don't forget what is taking you to school. It is to learn. Every other thing is secondary. Please, don't get into anything that will make us unhappy. I do trust you though. Continue to be the good girl that we trained, okay?" Mom said.

"I will, Mom. Trust me."

"I do."

"I'll really miss you, my daughter. Don't forget to call if you need anything, okay? Even if we have to borrow we will. Just don't hesitate."

"Yes, Daddy," I replied and gave my dad a hug. I swear tears were already threatening to drop down my eyes. I saw Mom wrap her hands around me and that was when I felt the coldness of a tear drop on my face. I quickly wiped it off before the group hug was spontaneously broken.

"Say bye to Chika and Dami for me when you get back home," I said.

"We will," Mom answered.

I escorted my parents back to where the our car was parked. I didn't leave until I've seen them drive off.

I went back to the registration booth and got my luggage fitted into the bus, after which I waited for the bus to get completely filled with other passengers.