The stranger came in without knocking.
Earlier today, my parents had left for my sister’s convocation, and I had just returned from school, having finished my last high school exam.
As I undressed, I heard a strange noise from the living room but dismissed it, assuming it was just rats scurrying about.
I tossed my dirty uniform into the laundry basket, muttering happily amidst my exhaustion, “Goodbye, dear uniform.”
Leaving my room, I headed to the kitchen to fix something to eat. Suddenly, my phone rang from the center table.
Seeing Timothy’s name on the screen, I smiled and swiped the green button to answer.
Timothy, two years older than me and currently a freshman in college, greeted me with an enthusiastic, “Hey, friend. Congratulations!”
Startled by his loud voice, I pulled the phone away from my ear. “Do you want to burst my eardrum?” I asked, massaging my ear.
“Sorry, sorry,” he apologized repeatedly. “I’m just so happy for you. I can’t wait for you to join me at school. I miss my friend,” he rambled, and I could tell he was pacing.
“Please, don’t tell me you’re on your feet,” I said knowingly.
“You know me too well,” he laughed heartily.
I wanted to laugh too, but the aroma of my jollof rice beckoned. “Timothy, I’ll call you back,” I said hastily.
“Liar, you won’t call…” he began, but I had already hung up.
As I turned towards the kitchen, I froze in shock.
My phone slipped from my hand as a sense of foreboding washed over me.
There, sitting comfortably on my dad’s favorite couch, was a stranger. His attire was menacing, and his face was obscured.
How did he get in here? Didn’t I lock the door?
He chuckled softly, seemingly pleased by my reaction.
I realized with a sinking feeling that I was alone at home. Trembling, I managed to ask, “Who are you?”
He didn’t respond. Instead, he moved swiftly towards me, and I got a clear look at his face. My body trembled in terror.
“What!” I screamed internally.
Memories of a recent dream flooded my mind: the same face, trying to stab me, only to be blown away by a mighty wind.
Oh my! It all makes sense to me now.
Is my dream about to come to pass?
