My Third Cycle

1. The inheritance

15th October, 2016
Michael

My uncle Abdul Saad was a tall, slim man with finely kinked hair. A peculiar birthmark shaped inform of a star lay on his forehead. A gentle and quiet soul he was with ever so persuasive chestnut brown eyes. Oozing charm, Uncle Saad was basically a woman's man, handsome, alluring, a silky smooth voice, an enticing smile and laughter that copied the soft tinkling of bells.

He was the very definition of a Logophile, he loved books. I never knew him to work but he was very rich. Never married, and never got into any serious relationship, thus; never gave me any cousins for companionship. My only consolation was his friendship.

Since I was old enough to read, each time mother and I visited, he would lend me a new book to read. It quickly became our thing. I would return the books I had read and he would suggest newer books. He related to me like an adult, We discussed authors and editors, criticized books, had long chats about my school life, girls... he always knew the right thing to say. He was a good listener, he happily listened to all my stories and problems, fickle and silly as they might have gotten sometimes, this was odd but welcomed; His fierce dedication to my needs soon earned him my loyalty and trust--he became my confidant.

Once I asked him why he read and wrote so much, he replied,

"Son, reality sucks, but in my books, I am alive ''

We enjoyed the same kind of books although he loved every kind and genre: classics, fantasy, fiction or thriller. Our shared favorites genre was non-fiction; based on true life experiences. Once, I told him I wanted to write a novel based on a true story, he regarded me and smiled before saying;

"I just might have one for you. Unravel the myth of a god and entity close to heart and blood. There, you will find a story."

"What?" I asked, confused.

"There's a diary, son" he said and then he paused, looking very pensive before continuing, "Michael, when I die, which of my possessions do you fancy most? What do you want off me when i go?"

"I don't under-"

"Of course you do son; what will it be? I've got sweet rides, mansions you'd love; i know you love my yacht. Come on Mike, it's not that hard."

"No, it isn't." I replied, this made him smile.

"Yes?!" he replied, seeming quite anxious.

"I want this library."

"You love the library that much?"

"Well of course, it's a marvel!"

He laughed out, clearly amused at my pick. When he was done, he stared at me wearing a crooked grin.

Uncle Saad owned a library in his island home with a vast collection of books, it's a marvel considering it was for private use. Built like a dome and embellished with antique sculptures, paintings and polished shelves. A magnificent chandelier centered the room and huge windows aided cross wind flow.
There was a large, polished mahogany reading table with drawers placed at the east corner of the library. Comfortable sofas tastefully arranged by the windows and a mini-bar with a fridge at the corner of the room.

"It's yours after I die."

"Just like that uncle?!"

"On one condition though, You must accept the mansion it comes with."

I smiled in relief, it wasn't the kinda condition I'd imagined.

"I can't imagine anyone better than you in here. I was amused because technically your response should have been this mansion -the library is after all a section ofit."