The Precious Figure

Chapter 2

He gaped in shock and surprise. "Whoa! That's a mighty course, Fareedah."

I smiled shyly as blood gushed to my cheeks. 'Yep, Medicine is truly a mighty course. I'd become a doctor...I mean, a cute doctor dressed in white.' I thought, picturing myself flashing a smile and meeting Najib with a tight embrace as he comes to pick me from work.

"You there?" he waved his hand at me.

"Oh...yeah. What were you saying?" I tried to gain composure again.

Why was I always deep in thought, when with him?

"You must be very brainy and smart to study Medicine. How easy is it to even study Medicine in Nigeria? You're a rare gem, Fareedah," he flashed his teeth, giving me a thumbs-up.

I could see Raqibah eyeing me through my side view. I knew she'd have a lot to say...but gosh, I felt really special to be admired by a handsome man. No man that handsome had ever dared to speak with me. Moreover, Raqibah had had her doses of relationships but here I am, having no experience with what relationship is all about.

"Do you mind if I play music? I know you guys are very religious but Bruno Mars songs keeps me going." He said, raking his hair.

"Oh...yes, of course. It's your car, isn't it? You have the right to listen to what you want." My cheeks hurt deeply from over-smiling but I couldn't help it. I had to please this overly-cute man!"Ah well, it's not just about the fact that it is my car. I need to make sure you guys are okay with it." He remarked.

"Thank you, Najib. We're okay," I said, turning to Raqibah for a look of approval. What I got in return was a dark stare.

It was then I noticed that she was reading Professor Audu's note. Oh well, I'll read that when I get home.

"I'll drop before the next street, sir," Raqibah said in a brusque way. She packed her books into her bag and wore her shoes.

"Okay ma'am. Here you go. Have a nice day." He waved at her.

Raqibah got down from the car but didn't leave without laying scrutinizing eyes on me and saying, "Call me immediately you get home."

I muttered 'okay' and watched her as she walked away. Raqibah was indeed fat and her dress sense was very poor.

"Have you had a little talk with your friend about fashion?" he asked as he focused his gaze on the road. He asked as if reading my mind.

We were almost at the street where I live. The area was surrounded with roadside traders, hawkers, rickshaws, okadas and passersby that flocked the street. I sorta felt ashamed because I was certain that Najib would be living in a Government Residential Area.

"Raqibah is all about books and books and books. If she isn't reading, she is eating," I muffled some quiet laughter.