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Gladys romped on the beach; she pushed ‗her‘ guy into the sea and ran off. He came out of the water, gave chase and soon caught up with her. Their laughter washed over the scene before he swung her up and around until she screamed with delight and joy.
“Gladys, Gladys!” The sound of her name wiped the wistful smile off her face and she sprang out of bed. It was late afternoon on Wednesday, and she was back in her bedroom after tramping the streets of Lagos in search of That Elusive Job. It was Aunt Isioma‘s raised voice that had jerked her out of the daydream. She left the room and took the stairs down, two at a time.
“Did you call me?” She entered the living room breathing quickly.
Her aunt was watching television but looked up when she walked in. “Yes, sit down Gladys. I have something for you.” She gestured to the seat beside her.
“This was in my post office box today.” She handed over an official envelope.
Gladys turned it over and stared at the back. The return address was Zenon Oil and Gas. Her breath stopped and then returned accompanied by a rapid heartbeat. Her palms began to sweat. This was the final communication with them and if this was a refusal, then that was the end. Her muscles spasmed and she felt sick to her stomach. “It‘s from Zenon, isn‘t it? And about time too. Let‘s see the letter, Gladys.”
Gladys fumbled over the flap and finally got it open. With shaking hands, she drew out the embossed sheet and spread it flat over her left palm. When she collapsed on the back of the seat, her aunt snatched the paper away from her hands.
“What is it Gladys? It‘s not the end of the world even if you didn‘t get the job with them. There are other opportu…” Aunt Isioma‘s scanned the letter with a sharp gaze.
“YES!” She jumped to her feet and dragged Gladys up into her arms. “This is fantastic news, I‘m so happy for you. Congratulations!”
Gladys couldn‘t speak for a moment and could not even hug her back. Her heart pounded in her chest and incipient tears clogged her voice. Soon, the water flowed from her eyes.
“It is all right, don‘t cry dear.” Her aunt sat her back on the seat and settled herself on the arm. “Wipe your tears. You have to call your mother, she‘ll be thrilled.”