“No.” I pushed back my tears. “I’ll do that myself, the moment I’m financially independent from dad. Right now, let’s talk about something else: like your going away.”

“Ok. You don’t want me to go? Are you worried that it’d be the end of us if I did?”

“It wouldn’t be the first time.” I blurted out, annoyed to be reminded of Amoge.

“Not this time, Teeny. Why do you think I’d want us to get committed? I want to leave knowing that you’d be there when I come back.”

“I’ve always been here, Ejike. It’s you I’m not sure of. You will be gone for at least one year. Am i to believe that you won’t be having sex for a whole year and more?”

“Of course,” he exclaimed, sounding very sincere and convincing. “Aw, Teeny. Why won’t I keep myself for you? Unless you are telling me that you won’t.”

“Women are different. We are faithful beings”

“Yeah right!” Scoffed Ejike. At that moment, Ifeatu peeped into the room from the door. He turned at her, “Yes, madam? Can we help you?”

But she stuck out her tongue at him, before turning her attention to me. “Your dad calls.”

“Dad! Hmmm, strange.”

Mummy Rose was chatting with him when I came into the sitting room. When she saw me, she quickly bade her welfare and handed the receiver to me.

“Good morning, sir,” I mumbled into the mouthpiece, still doubtful that it was my dad.

“Good morning, dear.” It was him all right. He hadn’t lost his accent or the you-would-be-sorry-if-you-mess-with-me command in his voice that frightened the bejesus out of me as a kid. “Sincerest apologies to interrupt your holidays. Something came up and I need you down here ASAP. See if you can find a flight to bring you to Owerri for either this evening or first thing tomorrow morning. Call me when you confirm the time and I’ll be at the airport to pick you.”

“Ok, sir. Is it ok if I send you a text instead?”

“Why sure, so long as you get back to me. It’s of essence. That’s it then, enjoy your day.”

The thing that came up was Phina. She was with him at the airport.