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“Honey, I know we’re not rich,” Tunde would say, “but we’re happy. I’m content.”
I would roll my eyes in exasperation and reply. “But you could be earning so much more! Why didn’t you apply for that position?”
We had this argument many times. I constantly pushed him to be more ambitious at work. I wanted him to get the promotions, the bigger salary and all the associated perks. Why did I want to be the wife of a comfortable man, when I could be the wife of a rich man?
“I want to travel abroad, buy nicer clothes and jewellery, and not have to worry about budgeting every single penny…”
“Count your blessings, Chi. Stop trying to compete with your friends. You have your health, food to eat and a roof over your head. And you have me. You have all that you need.”
“I want more out of life.” I would snap back.
Then one day, I got a call while I was at work. Tunde had been in an accident. I rushed to the hospital. I waited for hours at his bedside until he regained consciousness.
He smiled weakly at me when he finally opened his eyes.
“Chi, honey.”
“Tunde, I’m here. How do you feel?”
“I’m dying.”
“No, no, no! You’re going to be alright – ”
“Listen to me. I won’t be here for much longer, but you’ll be fine. My insurance policy will pay out when I die. You’ll be able to live the rich life of your dreams…”
His voice trailed off.
“I don’t want your insurance money! I want you!” I screamed.
But it was too late.
Tolulope Popoola is a writer, blogger and lover of arts and literature. She recently quit her career in Accounting to become a full-time writer. She blogs at http://writingmystories.blogspot.com, and is the creator of the online fiction series, ‘In My Dreams It Was Simpler’. She also writes short stories, poems and magazine articles, and is currently working on a novel.
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Very simple, very short, yet burstling with morals.
This story is good, but it made me sad.
This story made me so sad! Quite reflective of life in the sense that sometimes it takes awful things to happen for us to realise what’s really important. Serves her right though! Lol!
I’m a fan of your FLASH FICTION. Fertile Imagination is my favourite. I didn’t know there was a term for the incredibly short pieces I’ve written which seemed complete. There are a couple on my blog. Take a look.
I look forward to the next!
Reallt lovely piece. Had to reflect on life in its self and appreaciate the fact that i am alive and should always i mean always be grateful for every moment….
Nice one Tolu….keep up the good works!
Oh, so truly beautiful, poignant and tragic.
Love it.
Beautiful story. Short yet straight to the point.
I like this one. Right up my street.