Alhaja

As I stepped into the economics class on that sunny Monday afternoon, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness. It had been a while since I’d delved into the world of economics, having focused primarily on science during my academic journey. But with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams looming on the horizon, I knew it was essential to brush up on all subjects.

As I scanned the room, my eyes landed on a vision of loveliness – Alaja. Her captivating beauty left me momentarily stunned. But, being the self-proclaimed ‘blocked heart’ that I am, I quickly dismissed the thought, chiding myself for even noticing. ‘What a stunning girl,’ I thought, ‘I hope she finds someone worthy of her charm.’ Little did I know, fate had other plans.

To my surprise, my best friend, Nofiu, walked into the class, flashing his trademark bright smile. I watched with interest as he effortlessly commanded the attention of our classmates, including the lovely Alaja. It was clear that Nofiu had already made a lasting impression on her.

As the class progressed, I found myself observing the dynamics between Nofiu and Alaja with great interest. Their easy banter and playful jabs left me wondering if there was more to their friendship than met the eye. Was Nofiu smitten with Alaja’s charms? And how would I, as his best friend, fit into this budding equation?

The stage was set for an intriguing exploration of friendship, romance, and self-discovery. As I sat in that economics class, I couldn’t help but feel that this was just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.”

“As the week went by, I found myself immersed in science classes, barely having time to catch my breath. It wasn’t until the next week, in our general maths class, that I reunited with Nofiu. Alaja, as usual, claimed her spot at the front of the class, while I settled into my seat on the right-hand side. Nofiu, meanwhile, took his place on the left-hand side, conveniently positioned next to Alaja.

It was evident that Nofiu and Alaja had grown closer, their easy banter and playful exchanges a testament to their blossoming friendship. I later discovered that they shared the same department, which explained why they seemed to connect so effortlessly.

As I observed the class dynamics, I couldn’t help but notice that Alaja was the undisputed center of attention. Guys from all corners of the classroom vied for her attention, but it was clear that Nofiu held a special place in her heart. He, in turn, seemed completely smitten with her, and their mutual affection was palpable.

I watched this unfolding drama with great interest, wondering how this love triangle would play out. Would Nofiu and Alaja’s relationship continue to blossom, or would external factors threaten to derail their romance? And where did I fit into this equation, as Nofiu’s best friend?”

As the days went by, I found myself growing more accustomed to seeing Alaja and Nofiu together. They would often sit together in class, exchanging notes and laughter. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of curiosity – what was it about Alaja that had captured Nofiu’s attention so thoroughly?

One day, as we were leaving class, Nofiu caught up with me and asked if I wanted to join him and Alaja for a study group. I agreed, and we made plans to meet up at the library the following day.

As I walked to the library, I couldn’t help but wonder what the study group would be like. Would Alaja and Nofiu’s easy camaraderie make me feel like an outsider? Or would we be able to work together seamlessly, our shared goal of acing the economics exam binding us together?

I pushed open the library door and spotted Nofiu and Alaja already seated at a table, surrounded by stacks of books and notes. They smiled at me, and I took a seat, feeling a sense of excitement and trepidation. What would this study group bring?

As we delved into our study session, I was struck by Alaja’s intelligence and insight. She had a way of breaking down complex economic concepts into manageable chunks, making it easier for us to understand. Nofiu, meanwhile, was his usual charismatic self, keeping the mood light with his witty jokes and humorous anecdotes.

I found myself feeling more at ease as the study session progressed. Alaja and Nofiu were both warm and welcoming, making me feel like a valued member of the group. We worked together seamlessly, our collective knowledge and skills complementing each other perfectly.

As the hours passed, our study session transformed into a lively discussion, with the three of us debating various economic theories and sharing our perspectives. Alaja and Nofiu were both passionate about the subject, and their enthusiasm was infectious. I found myself getting drawn into the discussion, sharing my own thoughts and opinions.

At one point, Alaja turned to me and asked for my thoughts on a particular economic concept. I launched into an explanation, and she listened intently, her eyes sparkling with interest. Nofiu, meanwhile, nodded along, his expression thoughtful.

As we packed up our things to leave, Alaja smiled at me and said, “Thanks for your input today. You’re really smart.” I felt a surge of pleasure at her praise, and Nofiu chuckled, saying, “Yeah, he’s always been a whiz kid.”

As we walked out of the library, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging. For the first time, I felt like I was part of a group, connected to others who shared my passions and interests.

But as we said our goodbyes and went our separate ways, I couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was something more to Alaja and Nofiu’s relationship. Something that went beyond mere friendship.

On a sunny afternoon while chatting with my friends at Nofiu’s house I burst out laughing at Fawas’s comment, teasing Nofiu about his alleged conquest. But Nofiu’s expression remained stoic, his eyes darting between us with a hint of unease.

“Guy, what’s going on?” Fawas pressed on, his curiosity piqued. “You’ve been acting strange lately, and now you’re hiding messages from us?”

Nofiu sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s nothing, guys. Just a…a friend from class.”

I raised an eyebrow, skeptical. “Save it, Nofiu. We know you too well.”

Fawas chimed in, “Yeah, and we also know Alaja. She’s the only one who could make you act this weird.”

Nofiu’s eyes narrowed, a hint of warning in his gaze. “Drop it, guys.”

But Fawas and I exchanged a knowing look. We’d known Nofiu for years, and we could tell when he was hiding something.

As we continued to tease Nofiu, I couldn’t help but wonder what was really going on between him and Alaja. Were they secretly dating? And why was Nofiu being so secretive about it?

The questions swirled in my mind, but I knew I’d have to wait for Nofiu to open up to get the truth.

As the days went by, Fawas and I continued to tease Nofiu about his alleged relationship with Alaja. But Nofiu remained tight-lipped, refusing to confirm or deny our suspicions.

One day, as we were hanging out at school, Alaja walked up to us, a bright smile on her face. “Hey guys, what’s up?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

Nofiu grinned, standing up to greet her. “Not much, Alaja. Just getting teased by these guys.”

Alaja laughed, playfully rolling her eyes. “Oh, I’m sure it’s well-deserved.”

As I reflected on the events that had transpired, I realized that my initial assumptions about Nofiu and Alaja’s relationship had been misplaced. Despite their undeniable chemistry, it became clear that they were simply close friends, united by their shared passion for economics.

I recalled the study group sessions, where Alaja’s intelligence and insight had impressed me, and Nofiu’s charisma had kept us all engaged. Their friendship was built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and a deep understanding of one another.

As I watched them interact, I noticed the way they effortlessly joked and teased each other, their banter a testament to their strong bond. But there was no romantic tension, no lingering gazes or suggestive comments. Just a deep and abiding friendship.

Fawas and I had been wrong to assume that Nofiu and Alaja were dating. Instead, we’d stumbled upon a beautiful example of a platonic relationship, one that proved that men and women could be close friends without romance getting in the way.

As I looked back on the experience, I felt grateful for the lesson I’d learned. Sometimes, the most meaningful relationships in our lives are the ones that don’t involve rom

ance. And Nofiu and Alaja’s friendship was a shining example of that.

THE END.