Let me share my story.
Back when I was a freshman, or as we say in Kenya, a first-year university student, I was broke. Broke. But amidst the financial struggles, one thing that sustained us was our sense of unity, our ‘bro code’ as we used to call it.
One day, as I trudged through campus, I crossed paths with a striking young woman, whom we’ll call Wairimu. They say opposites attract — yes, I am a physics enthusiast, but I lack the funds to challenge Elon Musk to a rocket-building contest. Tall, dark, and fit — that’s me, a rare breed.
She appeared lost, presumably visiting a friend. I paid no heed to the details. We connected instantly. Armed with pickup lines borrowed from YouTube, I managed to charm her into visiting my humble hostel.
Our lodgings weren’t glamorous, but they offered a roof over our heads and the luxury of going hungry. It was a haven; Abraham Maslow would approve.
As we entered my room, barren save for a stray novel resting on the bed — a likely misplacement by my friend Bryson — I couldn’t help but notice her curiosity. ‘So, you’re a reader?’ she inquired. ‘Indeed,’ I replied, though I preferred my novels closed. When she opened it, a slip of paper fluttered to the floor.
Curiosity piqued, I asked for her assistance in retrieving it, keen to avoid any potential conflict. The paper bore betting odds — Bryson’s handiwork. A spark of inspiration struck: why not place a bet? With a mere 5 Kes, the potential winnings amounted to 18,000. ‘Why not?’ I thought and took the plunge.
As time ticked by, her gaze grew more captivating, and I sensed the moment was ripe. Mustering my courage, I leaned in, only to be interrupted by a message. Initially dismissive, her persistence compelled me to check. ‘Perhaps it’s your girlfriend,’ she teased. Oh, if only she knew the arid spell I endured. Two messages flashed simultaneously:
‘Congratulations, Soli, you’ve won 18,000,’ followed by the delightful confirmation of receipt. Today was indeed my lucky day.
Thoughts of indulging in ripe mangoes danced in my mind, but I decided to postpone that pleasure for another time.
Suddenly without knocking on the door like Nairobi landlords Bryson entered the room, a palpable tension hung in the air…..
