CHAPTER 61
"VICTORIA'S BATTLES"
\|\*
Flashback
Victoria Chukwunonso, the girl everyone despises, the girl everyone loathes. At least, that's who I am currently. I wasn't always this troublesome, but life has a way of changing people, shaping them into the people they are meant to be, whether for better or worse
Growing up, I became a firm believer of the saying, 'NO HOME IS PERFECT.' When it comes to perfect homes, mine was far from it. My family's financial struggles were impossible to hide. We hardly eat, and even when we did, it was only once a day. The constant tension between my mother and father was inescapable, as they argued endlessly about our family's situation
My mother would accuse my father of being lazy and not providing for us, while my father would retaliate, scolding and beating her for disrespecting him. I would try my best to intervene and separate them, often getting hurt in the process due to my small size at the time. Their fights became a continuous occurrence, a lifestyle that I desperately wanted to escape
Eventually, I grew tired of their constant bickering and began to ignore their fights. One day, my mother shouted at my father, "Mr. Man! Why are you so useless? Your only daughter has not eaten since yesterday and yet you are not moved?"
My father, enraged by her words, slapped my mother. To my surprise, she slapped him back, her fearless spirit refusing to back down.
"What? You slapped me?" he retorted.
"Yes! And I will do it again if you ever hit me again. What's wrong with you?" she replied, her voice unwavering
In a fit of fury, my father began to mercilessly beat my mother, leaving her face swollen and bruised
With the weight of our never ending financial struggles growing increasingly heavy, my mother took matters into her own hands. Overwhelmed by the relentless financial struggles and my father's inability to provide for us, my mother set out to seek help from those around her. With determination etched into her features, my mother swallowed her pride and sought assistance from relatives, friends, and anyone who could provide even a moment of respite from their dire situation
Despite her unwavering resolve, my mother's pleas for help were often met with demands for favours in return. Many of the men she approached, knowing full well the desperation of a young mother, expected illicit exchanges for their generosity. Yet, her moral compass remained unshaken, refusing to compromise her values as a faithful wife, no matter the cost
It was admist the turbulent sea of despair that a beacon of hope appeared in the form of Uncle Frank, my father's younger brother. Uncle Frank was a breath of fresh air in our tumultuous lives. His visits were rare and almost always took place when my father was away from home. The warmth of Uncle Frank's presence brought a semblance of joy and tranquility to our home
I could still remember the kindness in Uncle Frank's voice as he spoke to my mother
"Beauty," he began, "I know how difficult things are for you. I thought I should help with what little I can. Take this"
He handed my mother a bundle of cash – a whopping Two hundred and fifty thousand Naira (₦250,000). My mother was instructed to start a small business, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos that was our lives
"Frank! Ah! Thank you so much! God bless you! I don't know how to thank you," my mother said, her voice trembling with gratitude
"As for Mark, I will talk to him. He is my brother. I'm sure he will listen," Uncle Frank assured
"I hope so," my mother replied, her eyes filled with a mixture of hope and uncertainty
Uncle Frank soon became our only source of joy. Whenever he would visit, we spent precious time together, savouring the fleeting moments of happiness he brought into our home. Honestly, there were times when I wished he was my father, but I knew that was just a distant dream
Basketball! Basketball! Basketball! Basketball became my refuge. Honestly, my natural growth spurt wasn't something I inherited. It was a blessing that gave me an advantage over my opponents on the court. My dream of becoming a professional WNBA player was a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil at home. Uncle Frank was the first person to support my passion for the sport, even buying me a basketball for practice. I was incredibly grateful for all he had done for my mother and me.
Despite having a wonderful uncle in Uncle Frank, I couldn't ignore the stark contrast with my father. I didn't have a single good memory of him – trouble seemed to follow him wherever he went, turning our home into a battlefield
One day, my mother called for me in a desperate voice,
"Jesus! Ah! Victoria! Victoria!" my mother screamed
"Ma!" I answered, abandoning my basketball practice to rush to her side
In her room, it was clear that she had been frantically searching for something. "Victoria, did you see any money? I was sure I kept it in this bag, but did you see it and help me keep it?" she asked, her voice trembling
"Which money? The only money I'm aware of is the Two hundred and fifty thousand Naira (₦250,000) that Uncle Frank gave us the last time he visited. The one he gave you to start a small business with" I replied
"Yes, that's the money I'm looking for. Please, where is it?" my mother questioned, her eyes pleading for an answer I didn't have
"I'm sorry, ma, but I don't know where it is. I only saw it that day when Uncle Frank came here. I haven't seen it since that day," I admitted, anxiety rising in my chest
My mother's world seemed to crumble around her as she sat down on the floor and wept. "Ah! Jesus! I am finished! My enemies have finally succeeded," she cried
"Mummy, what's wrong?" I asked even though I could already guess the answer
"Victoria, the money that Uncle Frank gave us is gone," my mother confirmed, her voice cracking under the weight of her despair
The tension in our home reached a boiling point when my mother confronted my father about the missing money. The suspicion that he had stolen the precious fund Uncle Frank had given us only fueled her anger, and she directly accused him of the theft. Even I believed my father was capable of such an act
When my father returned home that night, my mother immediately confronted him, "Where is the money you stole from my bag this morning?"she asked
Taken aback by her aggressive accusation, my father tried to deflect the question. "What? Which money? First of all, is that any way to welcome your husband who has been away from the house since morning?"
Unfazed by my father's attempt to change the subject, my mother continued, her voice trembling with rage as she grabbed his shirt, her grip tightening as she demanded, "Don't change the topic, Daddy Victoria. Give me back my money!"
My father's frustration grew as he realized that my mother was not going to back down. "I don't know what you are talking about. Leave me alone and serve me food!" he ordered, once again attempting to shift the focus
Refusing to be deterred, my mother pressed on, "First of all, Daddy Victoria, there is no food in this house. Secondly, give me back my money!"
Sensing that the issue was escalating, my father issued a warning, "I can see you've finally gone mad! Now if you don't leave my shirt before the count of 3, you won't like what I would do to you."
"You can't do anything!" My mother said, her resolve unwavering as she clung to my father's shirt. Her voice steady and defiant, "Shameless man! Your mates are working hard and taking good care of their families. All you do is cause us pain"
The countdown began, my father's voice heavy with the promise of violence, "1,"
"2," my mother said as she held on to my father's shirt, her anger mixed with fear as she braced herself for the inevitable
"2," my father said, his expression turning cold
"What will you do?" my mother questioned, her hand still grabbing my father's shirt
"21/2," my father said. A short laugh escaped his lips, giving my mother one last warning
My mother's voice barely a whisper, she steeled herself for the worst. "Do your worst!" she said
"3!" my father said
As the fateful number left my father''s lips all hell broke loose. Violence erupted as my father unleashed his fury upon my mother, raining down punches and kicks from every direction. The horrific scene unfolded before my eyes as I watched, helpless and terrified
The screams and chaos drew the attention of our neighbours, who rushed in to intervene, putting an end to the vicious assault. My mother lay on the ground, battered and bruised, her injuries a testament to the brutality she had endured
Meanwhile, my father appeared unaffected by the trauma he had inflicted, his indifference a chilling reminder of the frustrsted state of our family. He simply walked into the house, washed away the evidence of his actions and went to sleep, leaving my mother and me to pick up the pieces
It was during these tumultuous times that basketball became my saving grace. Ever since Uncle Frank had given me a basketball in Primary 3, I had found solace in the rhythmic bounce of the ball and the satisfaction of a well-aimed shot. As I graduated to Primary 4 and joined the school's basketball club, the sport became my escape from the pain and chaos that consumed my home life
Although I had initially joined the fashion club, a testament to my love for clothing and shoes, I soon realized that it did little to ease the burdens of my troubles. It was only when I was practicing basketball at home that I found the strength to forget the turmoil at my home
And so, I made the decision to leave the fashion club and dedicate myself to basketball, the one place where I felt truly free. As I practiced and played, the sounds of my father's anger and my mother's pain would fade into the background, replaced by the steady beat of the ball against the ground and the cheers of my teammates
In the world of basketball, I discovered a sense of belonging that had long been missing from my life. Playing basketball everyday with my teammates makes me confidence that my dream of becoming a pro and playing in the WNBA could come true
My growing process in basketball soon became the talk of my school – Rose Newton Nursery and Primary School. I rapidly improved, honing my skills and getting better at the sport. Before long, I had earned the starting spot as a center for my school
As I improved and my reputation grew, I found myself drawing comparison to Eno, a renowned played who, at the time, was completely unknown to me. When a talented new comer emerges in any sport, it is only natural for people to compare them to the very best, whether in their position or in the sport as a whole. Eno, being the best center at the time, was the standard aginst which my abilities were measured. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and excitement at the thought of being likened to the best young center in the country
Our school applied to participate in the highly anticipated Principal cup, a tournament exclusively for Lagos State Nursery and Primary Schools. I saw this as the perfect opportunity to face off against Eno and truly test my skills against the best of the best. However, I learned that Eno was recovering from a serious injury, and I secretly prayed for her speedy recovery – not only for her well-being but also so I could have a chance to play against her. Though, it may have been selfish, I yearned for the opportunity to see how I measured up against the top talents in the sport
There were 8 groups with four schools in each, and Rose Newton Nursery and Primary School was seaded in Group D. Our team's individual and collective strength propelled us to the knockout stages without a single loss. The Principal Cup had become an exhilarating experience for us all
Throughout the tournament, I kept a close eye on the progress of Eno's school, Rose Mary Nursery and Primary School. Just as I had hoped, Eno healed in time for the competition, giving her team a significant boost. Mirroring our success, Rose Mary Nursery and Primary School also advanced to the knockout stages without tasting defeat. Due to the tournament bracket, our schools would not face each other until the final – if we both managed to make it that far
Determined to face Eno in the final, I worked tirelessly to ensure our team's success. We advanced to the semifinals, as did Rose Mary Nursery and Primary School
The Rose Mary Nursery and Primary School's semifinal game was scheduled to take place before ours. As I watched Eno and Rose Mary Nursery and Primary School dominate their semifinal game, I couldn't help but be captivated by her exceptional performance. Her explosive defensive and offensive skills were nothing short of remarkable, solidifying her reputation as the best center among Primary school students. Rose Mary's victory secured their spot in the final, awaiting the winner of own semifinal matchup. Eno's incredible stat line – 36 points, 16 rebounds, 3 assists, 12 blocks – left me both awestruck and inspired
Though I had never come close to scoring 30 pointsn in a game before, my determination to emulate Eno's heroics was unwavering. My personal bests of 16 points and 5 blocks seemed meager in comparison, but I was motivated to push myself beyond my limits. Obsession, perhaps, but it was an ambition driven by the desire to become the best version of myself as a basketball player
As our semifinal game unfolded, I channeled that determination into my performance. My team emerged victorious, securing our place in the final against the Rose Mary Nusery and Primary School. Though I fell short of replicating Eno's triple-double, I still managed to achieve several new personal records: 20 points, 9 rebounds, and my first ever steal. However, my 7 turnovers revealed there was still much room for improvement in maintaining possession
Returning home from our triumphant victory, the elation of our success was short-lived. As I approached my home, I was met with a devastating sight: our belongings and properties were scattered haphazardly outside
"Please, ma, give us more time," my mother's voice trembled as she pleaded with our landlady
"Haven't I tried? You and your family have been owing rent for the past 30 months now. And you are asking for more time? I'm sorry, I can't. Leave my house!" our Landlady retorted
As three muscular-looking men were throwing our things out, Uncle Frank drove in. After parking his car, he walked towards us. "What's going on here?" he inquired with concern
"This woman and her family have refused to pay their rent. They are owing for 30 months now. Which Landlady or Landlord can do that?" Our Landlady explained to Uncle Frank
Turning to my mother, Uncle Frank asked, "Beauty, where is Mark?"
"He's not around, and I don't know where he is," my mother replied, her voice laced with worry
"Have you called him?" Uncle Frank asked
"I don't have a phone. Only Mark has a phone in this house. And I don't know his phone number," my mother confessed
Uncle Frank acknowledged the situation, "I see," He then turned to our Landlady, "How much is the rent?"
"₦20,000 monthly," our Landlady said, "and since they are owing for 30 months, that's more than half a million,"
"That's ₦600,000, correct?" Uncle Frank asked for confirmation
"Yes," our Landlady agreed
"Wait for me; I'll be back," Uncle Frank said, walking towards his car
He returned with a bundle of cash, handing it to our Landlady, "Here. That's ₦160,000. I will pay you the balance next month"
After counting the money, our Landlady turned to my mother and said, "God saved you," she then turned to the young men she came with and said, "Boys, let's go,"
My mother began to express her gratitude to Uncle Frank, "Thank you very much. I don't know what we would have done without your help"
Uncle Frank reassured, "Don't mention it, Beauty. That's what family is for,"
We then started packing our belongings inside the house. Uncle Frank's kindness didn't stop at helping us with the house rent; he also bought a phone for my mother, ensuring she could stay connected to the world and reach out for help whenever needed. Spending time with him was a breath of fresh air; a stark contrast to the negativity that surrounded my father's presence. I longed for moments with Uncle Frank and dreaded the thoughts of my father coming home. The constant turmoil he brough with him was a weight I wished to be free from
As the day of the final match between us, Rose Newton Nursery and Primary School, and Rose Mary Nursery and Primary School approached, I felt a brief reprieve from my family's struggles. However, the unresolved issues at home affected my focus during the game. Eno dominated the first half, her skills seemingly overwhelming my distracted mind.
But as the first half drew to a close, I realized that my height gave me an advantage over Eno. With renewed determination and strategy, I stepped up my game in the second half. My towering presence on the court made me an unstoppable force, rendering Eno's efforts futile. The match ended with our school victorious, and we claimed the Principal Cup. My performance in the tournament, particularly in the final earned me the title of Most Valuable Player of the tournament, along with a prize of ₦2.5 million (₦2,500,000). My heart swelled with joy as I imagined how this money could change my family's situation
The lost ₦250,000 was supposed to be the capital for my mother's new business, but now, with ₦2,500,000, she could establish an even bigger venture than she had originally envisioned. I couldn't wait to share the fantastic news with my mother, a broad grin plastered on my face as I made my way home. However, my happiness was short-lived as I found myself in a nightmarish situation
On the bus ride home, a strange man pressed a white handkerchief against my face, the unpleasant scent invading my nostrils. I struggled to free myself from his grip, but my strength faded as unfamiliar weakness overcame me. When I regained consciousness, I was bound with rope in a room filled with menacing, thug-like men. Fear gripped me as I wondered how I would escape this horrifying predicament and return to my mother
Disoriented and without a sense of time, I felt the burden of my rapid physical development. Though I was only nine years old at the time, my tall stature, growing breasts, and inherited curves from my mother made appear like a teenage girl around the age of 14. Even at this young age, I had already been the subject of unwanted advances from older boys seeking relationships
My captivity only exacerbated these uncomfortable encounters as the thugs tasked with bringing me food, water, and fresh clothes took advantage of my vulnerability. They groped my sensitive, still-developing body and watched intently as I bathed and changed, leaving me feeling exposed and helpless. In these dark moments, I truly began to understand the immense value of freedom – a gift often taken for granted until it is stripped away
With no apparent intention of contacting my parents for a ransom, I found myself questioning the kidnappers' motives. The monotonous routine of captivity blurred the days together until, one day, two of the thugs dragged into a different room. It was dimly lit, with a well-made bed and a high-paced rotating fan. As I was forcefully uudressed and tied to the bed, my anxiety heightened, and my vulnerability felt more pronounced than ever
As the thugs left the room, I could hear their voices from behind the door
"Boss, everything is set!" one of them announced
A chill ran down my spine as I recognized the familiar voice that responded: "Okay, well done,"
I desperately tried to convince myself that I was mistaken – that my fear was playing tricks on my mind
But as the door opened, all hope of a misunderstanding evaporated. I stared in disbelief at the man standing before me. "Hello Victoria," he said calmly, confirming my deepest fears
My voice trembled as I struggled to form the words, "Uncle Frank… what are you doing here?" Disbelief mingled with a sense of betrayal, I pleaded for an explanation, "Why are you doing this?"
"Hey, slow down now, young lady. One question at a time, okay? Hmmmm. Why am I here? Isn't it obvious enough? Do I really need to spell it out for you?" Uncle Frank's sinister laughter filled the room as I fought back tears, struggling to understand how the man I once viewed as a father figure could betray me so cruelly
Gathering my courage, I pleaded for answers, "Why, Uncle Frank? Why are you doing this to us? What did we ever do to you?"
He eyed me coldly, a bitter smirk playing on his lips, "I'll tell you. Years ago, Beauty and I were engaged to be married. We were happy or so I thought. I loved her deeply and gave her everything – my heart, my time, my money. But in the end, it wasn't enough. When she left me for my brother, Mark, claiming I couldn't provide the life she desired, my world shattered. I never forgot the pain of that betrayal"
Through my tears and despair, I managed to question the reasoning behind my suffering, crying out, "So what does it have to do with me? Why am I the one suffering from my mother's past mistakes? I wasn't even born back then. So why?!"
Uncle Frank coldly explained his twisted logic, "Children are the treasures of their Parents. Hurting you would cause Beauty more pain than if I had hurt her directly," His sinister laughter echoed in the room as he continued "Initially, I planned to waut until you were older, but seeing your rapid growth, I knew I had to act quickly. Your basketball had made you strong, and it's better to exact my revenge now"
"God will judge you, Uncle Frank!" I exclaimed, desperate to find solace in the belief that justice will prevail
He scoffed, his bitterness palpable, "God? If God were truly just, why didn't he punish your mother for her betrayal? There is no God, Victoria. Only the pain you both will endure!"
As the horrific events unfolded, I could only weep and watch as my once gentle and fatherly Uncle Frank became a monster before my eyes, subjecting me to unspeakable abuse. When he finally left the room, I thought the nightmare would end, but it was only the beginning
The thugs who had tormented me earlier returned, each taking turns raping me until I lost consciousness, unable to endure the excruciating pain and humiliation. When I awoke, I found myself lying in a hospital bed with my mother by my side, tears streaming down her face. I decided to spare her the agonizing truth of what had happened, instead choosing to focus on the hope that my recent success in basketball had brought us
The ₦2.5 million (₦2,500,000) I had received as MVP of the Principal Cup allowed my mother to open a shop, and our lives slowly started to improve. I continued to train and work hard, determined to recover and get stronger and better at basketball. While we never discover the stranger who had found me and brought me to the hospital, I knew that her act of compassion had saved my life
However, my road to recovery took a devastating turn when I became gravely ill, a doctor's report revealed that I had contracted HIV. As my mother wept, I knew deep down that the brutality I had suffered at the hands of Uncle Frank and his henchmen was the cause. I silently vowed to seek vengeance on all men
As I progressed through my final year in Primary School, my basketball skills continued to flourish, leading Rose Newton Nursery and Primary School to another victorious year in the Principal Cup. Once again I was honoured with the MVP award, accompanied by a generous monetary prize. However, our home life took an abrupt turn when my mother discovered my father's infidelity, prompting her to leave the house with me in tow
With our newfound financial stability, my mother purchased a house in a respectable estate. As I settled into this new environment, I soon learned that the Nigerian National Basketball Association (NNBA) had launched a project aimed at improving the sport in the country and nurturing talented players across the country. The project was centered around the best in each of the 5 positions. The project was called the Victorious Varsity. The best 5 players would be recognized as the Victorious Varsity.
To my surprise, I was chosen as the best Center, despite Eno's skills. I later discovered that Eno had quit basketball, which fueled my anger towards her. The real reason why I called her a weakling wasn't due to my victories in our games and duels – a falsehood I had previously claimed – but rather her decision to quit the sport. In my eyes, anyone unwilling to face defeat had no place on the court
The male counterpart of the Victorious Varsity experienced a much more competitive landscape, with the best players in each position frequently shifting in response to new talents rising through the ranks. Meanwhile, the female Victorious Varsity had been dominated by me and 4 others for years, until the rise of a fierce new rival – Charlie Queens Academy Female Basketball Team
Players like Tosin, Tolu, and Chioma have what it takes to challenge us and potentially claim our coveted positions. Teni, another promising player; faces an uphill battle against the best in her position. I doubt Teni will beat her because she something else. Her skills are out of this world. Teni has zero chances of winning
As time passed, I found myself entangled in a web of deceit and retribution Driven by the pain I had suffered, I sought solace in using men, taking their money and spreading the virus that had been forced upon me. Each encounter left a trail of suffering in its wake, and my last victim, John – Tosin's ex – was no exception. Watching men crumble under the weight of my vengeance brought a twisted sense of satisfaction to my tormented soul
\|\*
Back to the present
As Victoria made her way home from the arena, Tosin's words echoed in her mind, stirring a whirwind of emotions
\|\*
Flashback
"What brought you to Lagos, Eshe?" Victoria inquired
Eshe smiled, her eyes bright with excitement, "I came to watch the Lagos Prefectural Championship. I'll be heading back soon; precisely this week. That's by the way. Since you're here, why don't you say hello to Tosin?"
"What? Eshe, you know my name?" Tosin asked, her eyes widened in shock
"Of course, I know you, Tosin Folasade," Eshe replied, her warm smile putting Tosin at ease. "You're well-known nationwide, girl, as the Captain and the power forward of the Charlie Queens Academy Female Basketball Team. Who wouldn't know you when you possess such immense talent and insane jumping prowess"
Before Tosin could respond, Victoria questioned Eshe, "Eshe, what are you doing with this loser, here?"
"Huuuuhhh?" Eshe was speechless before turning to face Tosin. "Why did she call you a Loser?"
Tosin remained silent, unsure of how to respond
"I called her a loser because that's what she is." Victoria retorted, her gaze locked onto Tosin
"What did you say?" Tosin finally snapped, stepping closer to Victoria, their bodies almost touching
"You heard me," Victoria replied, her voice filled with venom, "Oh right, I forgot you are deaf, loser!"
Eshe chuckled, diffusing the tension as she turned to address the pair. "Haha, this is a rather funny friendship. I wanted to introduce you to each other but I didn't know you guys were friends"
"I am not her friend!" Tosin and Victoria chorused angrily, their eyes locked in a heated battle of wills
Just as the trio began to settle an unease silence, the sound of an argument drew their attention towards a nearby basketball court
"Hey, that's not fair! It's 3 vs 3, not 3 vs 5!" a girl shouted, her frustration evident in her tone
"Who said anything about 3 vs 3?" a male voice countered, arrogance dripping from every word. "We said we want to play basketball! Anything goes, right? Hahaha"
"Damn you!" the second girl cried out, her anger palpable
"Besides," the first male voice continued, "who gives a damn if you lose here? You'll all end up in the kitchen! Why bother wasting your time practicing basketball?"
Tosin, Victoria, and Eshe exchanged knowing glances before turning to face the group of high school students, their attention focused on the arrogant boys, one of whom had just spoken
Just as the boy who just spoke turned around, he found himself face-to-face with Tosin, her eyes a mixture of indignation and determination
"You also think this is unfair, huh?" the boy sneered, his confidence unshaken. "Alright, how about we settle this with basketball?"
Victoria stepped forward, her own irritation evident as she chimed in, "You're on! Men really need to be taught a lesson"
Eshe smiled, her excitement growing as she added, "Mind if I join too? And yes, 3 vs 5 is fine. Let's get this over with,"
The impromptu game was a testament to the girls' skill as Tosin, Victoria, and Eshe effortlessly destroyed the 5-man team with a decisive score of 14-0
"Men are so insignificant!" Victoria declared, her disdain for the defeated boys evident in her tone
"Hey, don't generalize it," Tosin countered, her words measured and thoughtful, "Every man shouldn't pay for the sins of a few men"
"Yes, they should," Victoria insisted, "They are all the same! Didn't your so-called boyfriend dump you? Yet you stand there to defend men?"
Tosin sighed, her frustration mounting as she attempted to reason with Victoria. "Point of correction, my ex dumped me because of you! In the end, the reason why some of them are unfaithful is still us. Because when a man cheats on a woman, he does it with other women. The same is true for the reverse as well. In the end, this whole gender issue is a human-made problem and only we humans can solve it!" Tosin explained, her voice filled with conviction
Victoria remained unconvinced, her eyes locked on Tosin's with a challenging glare. "You talk as if you know about men. They will use you until they are satisfied. Once they are done, they will dump you and pretend like they never knew you. They are more evil than the devil himself!" Victoria countered
Tosin took a deep breath, her patience waning as she attempted to drive her point home "Among the 7 billion people in the world, there are men who are loving, caring, sweet, and supportive. There are also men who are the opposite. The same goes for women. I'm simply saying, all men are not the same!"
Victoria's gaze remained unwavering, her commitment to her beliefs remained unshakable. "They are!" She countered, her tone sharp
"Guys!" Eshe called out once more, drawing the attention of her companions
"What?!" Tosin and Victoria chorused, their eyes remaining locked on one another
"Don't you think it's getting late?" Eshe questioned,
\|\*
Back to the present
The memories of Victoria's traumatic experiences weighed heavily upon her, and tears streamed down her face as she walked through the burstling streets that night. Distracted by her thoughts, she almost didn't notice the car speeding toward her, but at the last moment, a strong hand pulled her out of harm's way
"Hey, watch where you're going, will you? That was close," a male voice said, offering his hand to help Victoria up.
Victoria wary of the stranger, brushed off his assistance and stood on her own
"It's good that you're okay," He said
"Well, yes. Can you leave me alone now?" Victoria replied coldly, her defenses on high alert
Hey, I just saved your life, you know," The young man said, a hint of concern in his voice
"I didn't ask you to save me, did I?" Victoria retorted, her tone lace with suspicion
"Well then, by the way, I'm Victor," the young man introduced himself, "I've been looking for you since your game against the Queens ended,"
"Why are you looking for me?" Victoria asked, still wary of Victor's intentions
"Why don't you accompany in my car?" Victor offered, "I promised it's for a good reason,"
Victoria hesitated for a moment, her instinct warning her to be cautious, but ultimately, she agreed to go with him, hoping to uncover the truth about his sudden interest in her. As they drove, through the city, Victoria's apprehension grew, and she couldn't help question Victor's motives
"Now, I'm in your car and we've gotten pretty far. Can you tell me what you want from me? Where are you taking me to?" Victoria demanded, her voice tinged with worry
"Calm down, now. We're here," Victor said as he parked the car in front of a hotel
"Hey, what are we doing in a hotel?" Victoria asked, her suspicions mounting
"Listen, it's not what you think, okay. Come with me," Victor said, trying to assuage her fears
Victoria followed Victor into the hotel, ready to bolt at the first sign of danger. As they turned a corner, they came face to face with a well-dressed white man
"Victoria, please meet Mr. Pique Rodriguez," Victor introduced, "Mr. Pique, this is Victoria, the girl I told you about"
Mr. Pique Rodriguez offered to shake Victoria's hand, but she ignored the gesture, still on edge from the unexpected encounter
"Ahem. I won't waste your time," Mr. Pique Rodriguez began, "You must be tired and in need of rest. Alright, Miss. Victoria. Just like Mr. Victor said earlier, I'm Mr. Pique Rodriguez, a recruiting agent for Universitat de Barcelona. We are looking to improve two positions in our school's female basketball team. We already recruited Tolulope Fashola from Charlie Queens Academy for one of the positions, which leaves one spot unoccupied"
At the mention of Tolu's name, Victoria's eyes widened in surprise, her tension momentarily forgotten
"Alright, so why am I here?" Victoria asked, her curiosity piqued
"Looks like you've finally calmed down. Alright, Mr. Victor here is recommending you for that second spot. The position is for centers. It's a scholarship, so all fees will be covered by the school. However, if you are not interested, I can explore other options," Mr. Pique Rodriguez explained
Victoria was taken aback by Victor's involvement in this opportunity. Could a man be so kind as to offer her such a life-changing chance without expecting anything in return?
"What? Did I hear him right? Mr. Victor recommended me?" Victoria thought to herself, barely able to process the news
"Hey, hello? Miss Victoria?" Mr. Pique Rodriguez called, tapping her on the shoulder, snapping her out of her reverie
"I'm sorry, sir. Yes, I'm interested," Victoria said, finally managing to find her voice
"Miss Victoria, it's good to hear that. However, we will only accept you on one condition," Mr. Pique Rodriguez said, a slight smile playing at his lips
"What's the condition, sir?" Victoria asked, her heart pounding in anticipation
"Miss Victoria, you are currently the best center among high school students in Nigeria. The condition is a simple task. You just have to end the year as the best center in Nigeria," Mr. Rodriguez said, laying down the challenge before her
"Challenge accepted!" Victoria replied