“You in, babe?”

“Yep, I literally just parked outside the gate.”

“Great, great. I’ll be coming down soon. Give me about five minutes. And this time, I mean five minutes. Seriously, use a timer if you like.”

Rolling his eyes, Joojo grinned. He knew she was never going to beat that timer; she’d be nowhere ready by the time that timer ran out. Nonetheless, he’d take her at her word.

Just to be able to gloat when she broke it.

“Alright, babe. If you say so. Five minutes it is.”

“Thanks, honey. See you in a moment!”

Hanging up, Joojo sat back in the driver’s seat and sighed, more out of a sense of relief than worry.

If ever there was a day that he could be said to have woken up on the right side of the bed, it had to be this one. For one, Abena was back to her chipper self, as her tone of voice had indicated. It had been a bit unexpected, but the moment he heard her bubbly, excited voice when he called her earlier that morning, he was delighted, and played along as they returned to their giddy ways.

Maybe it was the excitement of her father celebrating a new age on earth, but he’d definitely take it. He was more than happy to hear her in a joyful mood that day.

Also, those voices had lost their lustre somewhat that morning. He had no idea why, but they just seemed to let him be. No mental bombardments, no piercing declarations of Abena’s cheery disposition having nothing to do with him. They were just… silent.

And he loved it that way. At least he had some freedom to think and enjoy the day’s activities. The least he deserved after all those days of bombardment. So as he sat in his car that early afternoon, smartly dressed in a white shirt and white shorts, waiting for Abena to come out, he was in a perfectly good state of mind.

He duly busied himself with watching the latest Super Bowl halftime show featuring Usher. Fully engrossed in it, the sound of the passenger door opening was the only thing that caught his attention. He turned to see Abena smiling at him, looking resplendent in her white tee dress.

He looked at his phone in surprise. The timer had not run down to five minutes. What a surprise!

“Wow! You actually made it within five minutes! Amazing!”

Abena giggled and slapped him lightly on the shoulder. “I told you, didn’t I? You thought I’ll tell you to time me so you can laugh at me, eh? Never! I said I must put this man to shame at all cost.”

Joojo laughed and shook his head. “Well, I have to admit, you did. I’ve been put to shame. You have done well.”

“Thank you, honey. And this is only the start. You’ll see.”

Joojo’s face had doubt written all over it. “Are you sure?”

“I am sure, lah! You, you’ll see for yourself. The same way I’ve put you to shame this afternoon, I’ll keep putting you to shame.”

He raised his hands in surrender. “Yes please, madam. I eagerly wait to be put to shame.”

“Better. Okay, we can go now… oh, is that Usher’s Super Bowl performance?”

Joojo nodded as he started the engine. “Yep. The way people were talking about it, I checked it out last night. And it was good. Your man put out all the classics… well, except for ‘U Remind Me’, but chale, it was lit!”

“Oh, sweet, sweet. I knew he’d do a correct job.”

“Oh yeah, he delivered paaa. You know, I just wondered: what’s your favourite Super Bowl performance?”

Abena stopped, then put on a thinking face. “Oh, chale, that’s a tough one! There have been so many iconic performances. But I think for me, it has to be Beyoncé’s halftime show back in 2013. She absolutely killed it with “Single Ladies” and that Destiny’s Child reunion… chaleeee, that was everything!”

“Oh yeah, Beyoncé definitely brought down the house that year! Her energy was just off the charts,” Joojo agreed. “But what about Michael Jackson’s halftime show in 1993? I mean, he’s the King of Pop for a reason. That performance was legendary!”

“Ei, na sɛ MJ diɛɛ, he’s untouchable! As for that man, any performance of his is bound to be one of the best. Stopppp!”

“No jokes there! Michael Jackson diɛɛ, he’s a transgenerational talent. I’m telling you, from Boomers to Gen X to we millennials to Gen Z… see, Gen Alpha sef go love am pass…”

The Nissan Altima moved as Joojo and Abena heartily chatted, ready to enjoy a day of celebration at her parents’ place.

***

As they arrived at the Frimpongs’ upscale home, Joojo couldn’t help but be impressed by the grandeur of the estate. This obviously was not his first time here; he had come here a couple of times with Abena. Yet, the magnificence of the place was never lost on him. It was definitely one of the most stunning residences in an exclusive neighbourhood. From the sweeping driveway and its surrounding gardens to the one-of-a-kind patio, the exterior alone was a jaw-dropping beauty.

Of course, you couldn’t expect anything less from a man who had spent twenty years working at a top position in the Bank of Ghana.

And as it was Mr. Norbert Frimpong’s birthday, the display of sheer magnificence was already at peak levels, with impeccable décor and a stunning backdrop of the birthday man in full display.

“Chale, babe, this place is looking amazing,” he remarked, admiration evident in his voice. “Your old people really went all out.”

Abena smiled warmly, shaking her head in amusement. “Of course they would, babe. The way Daddy has been looking forward to this 60th birthday, there was no way he’d do anything ordinary.”

“Chale, issa necessity. Hitting the big 6-0 diɛɛ, ibi blessing. Definitely a reason to celebrate.”

“Exactly. Let’s go, honey.”

As they entered the house, it was unsurprisingly packed with a lot of people. From family members to friends of the birthday man, the expansive living room was filled with many who were present to help Mr. Frimpong celebrate his special day. The man of the moment was seated on his sofa, with his wife by his side, both of them looking hale and hearty.

As they weaved their way through to the Frimpong couple, Abena greeted various family members with warmth and familiarity, Joojo following along with a pleasant disposition. Arriving at the sofa, Mr. and Mrs. Frimpong’s faces lit up with joy, and they immediately enveloped her in a warm embrace.

“Happy birthday, Daddy!” Abena beamed, jumping excitedly in front of them as the three of them chattered excitedly for a minute. Then, turning to Joojo, the Frimpong couple offered him that good old genuine smile that had always been reserved for their daughter’s closest friends and family.

“Welcome, Joojo,” her father said, extending his hand. “It’s a pleasure to see you.”

Joojo smiled warmly as he grasped her father’s hand. “Same here, sir,” he replied. “I’m more than happy to come and celebrate with you. Happy birthday, sir. God bless you abundantly.”

“Thank you, young man. I’m very, very grateful,” Mr. Frimpong nodded gratefully.

“Thank you, Joojo. It’s good to see you. It’s been a while,” Mrs. Frimpong added. “Abena, go to the kitchen and get some jollof for you and Joojo, wai.”

Nodding obediently, Abena took Joojo’s hand, and they made their way to the kitchen.

They entered, and Abena let out a scream of excitement.

One young, handsome guy stood near the door, who had a huge grin spread across his face the moment he saw her. “Heyyyyy, Abena!” he cheered.

“Aleexxxxxx!!”

Joojo had been all smiles from the moment he had greeted Abena’s parents up to their entry into the kitchen. However, as Abena excitedly embraced this guy, his demeanour faltered slightly. Who the hell is this guy?

“Joojo, this is my cousin, Alex,” Abena said, gesturing towards the handsome guy standing before them.

Joojo forced a smile, his insecurity suddenly springing to the surface and multiplying despite what she had just said. He couldn’t shake off the irrational feeling of jealousy that crept into his mind as he observed the easy rapport between Abena and Alex.

“Nice to meet you, Alex,” Joojo managed to say, though his voice betrayed a hint of discomfort.

Alex greeted him warmly, his easy smile adding to Joojo’s unease. “Likewise, Joojo. Abena has told me a lot about you.”

“Oh, cool, cool. I’m sure it’s all good stuff.”

“Of course. Nothing but good things about you.”

Joojo nodded, letting go of Alex’s hand while Abena moved to the side of the kitchen where the ice chest containing jollof sat. As he waited while Alex walked over to the ice chest, Joojo found himself unable to shake off the sudden nagging feeling of insecurity that had taken hold of him. Despite knowing how ridiculous it was to feel that way, the irrational doubts continued to plague his mind, threatening to cast a shadow over what was meant to be a joyous moment.

***

“Babe, you okay?”

As Joojo and Abena sat at the dining table inside the house, enjoying their servings of jollof rice, the former’s facial expression seemed sullen for a moment. Looking up at her, he nodded his head quickly. “Sure, sure, I’m good. Just seriously eating this jollof, that’s all.”

Abena nodded, looking satisfied. “You enjoying it?”

“Absolutely. Which caterers made this?”

“K-Level Caterers. Mummy discovered them somewhere last year when our usual people folded up.”

“Oh, okay. They’re good, they’re good…”

As they chatted and savoured the meal, Alex passed by. Joojo silently prayed he would simply walk on by. Those feelings were still bubbling in his chest, and he really wished Alex would stay as far as possible from them…

“Hey, Abena, Mr. Daniels, mind if I join you for a moment?”

No such luck.

Abena looked at him, her eyes enquiring if he wanted him around.

Inasmuch as he didn’t want Alex around, he had a feeling she would get unhappy and assume his insecurity had popped up again. So he shrugged and nodded.

She turned to Alex and nodded. “Of course, Alex. Pull up a chair,” she said warmly, making room for him at the table.

As Alex settled in, he took the chance to compliment Abena on her YouTube videos. “So, quick one, cuz. I’ve been checking your YouTube channel, and I have to say, your videos are really impressive. Your editing is really on point,” he remarked.

Abena beamed at the compliment. “Thanks, Alex. I put a lot of effort into them.”

Alex nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I just so happened to notice one thing though. Your lighting could use some improvement. It’s a bit dim in some of your videos, and it affects the overall quality.”

Abena nodded in agreement. “Hmm, you’re right. Lighting has been bit of a challenge for me. I’ve been looking for ways to improve it. Do you have any suggestions?”

Alex smiled and nodded. “Actually, I have some experience with lighting setups. I’d be more than willing to help you out, if you’d like.”

Abena’s face lit up with excitement. “That would be amazing, Alex! Thank you so much for offering.”

“My pleasure, cuz.”

A simple gesture of support for his cousin’s budding career. Laudable and kind. The type of help any person would appreciate for his or her partner.

With each exchange of words between the cousins, however, Joojo felt a knot grow tighter and tighter in his stomach. The irrational fear that had been gnawing at him reached a fever pitch, fueled by the prospect of Abena spending more time with Alex.

She had always been doing this work on her own. And now, all of a sudden, someone was looking to force his way into her workspace? Another man, no less?

The voice that had been silent all day suddenly sprang out of its hiding place. This is where it begins! Before you know it, she’s got all kinds of guys around her, doing like they are just working with her, meanwhile, ulterior motives nkoaa… massa, this is where it starts!

This could not be allowed! He could not let this happen!

Fueled by this sudden burst of adrenaline, he dropped his fork and sharply butted in the conversation. “Abena doesn’t need your help!” he interjected, his tone sharp and defensive.

Alex and Abena turned and looked at him in shock, totally taken aback by the sudden show of hostility. Alex, genuinely surprised by this response, replied, “Uhhh… bro… But she seems okay with the offer. I’m just trying to help out. Like a cousin would.”

Jealousy plain and on display for all to see, Joojo shook his head furiously as he wiped his mouth with the napkin before him. “It doesn’t matter if she’s okay with it or not. She’s just fine without you interfering.”

Alex looked absolutely stumped by Joojo’s sudden aggression. He had not expected this at all. “Uhh, Mr. Daniels, is there something I’m missing? I’m not trying to interfere. I just want to help Abena improve her videos.”

But Joojo’s anger only escalated with each passing second. “I don’t care about that. I just want you to keep your distance from her!” he snapped, his voice growing louder with each syllable, attracting the attention of everyone in the dining room and living room.

Including Abena’s parents.

Abena looked mortified and enraged by this strange public outburst. She grabbed him by the shoulder and tried to shake some sense into him. “Joojo, what the hell are you doing? Stop it!” she hissed.

Joojo barely paid any attention to her. His eyes were fixated on Alex, the current ‘threat’ to his relationship.

“Bro, what are you talking about? I’m her cousin!” Alex scoffed, getting more befuddled by the minute. “We’re family! Where from this outburst? Are you okay or something?”

“Oh yeah. Cousin,” Joojo snarled, oblivious to the fact that the chatter around them had gone down and everyone’s attention was on him. “Like we don’t know what some of you ‘cousins’ can get up to.”

“Excuse me? What the hell are you insinuating?” Alex barked, set off by that remark. “Are you suggesting I’d want to sleep with my own cousin? Guy, what dey wrong you? Are you alright?”

“Yes, I’m alright! Alright enough to know niggas like you can’t be trusted!”

Alex turned to Abena, an incredulous look on his face. “Abena, what the hell is this?” he demanded. “Is this what your boyfriend is like?”

“Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, you’re talking to me!” Joojo snapped before Abena could utter a word. “Don’t talk to her. I’m her boyfriend. I’ll let her talk if necessary. But until then, it’s you and me. And I say, keep your damn distance from my woman!”

Alex looked understandably livid at this point. This was one hell of a strange and extremely insulting insinuation to be suddenly attacked with. “Boy, f**k off with this your overprotective bulls**t! You’re not even her husband, you’re just a boyfriend! Ah, we family members, we dey here for life. You, simple boyfriend dem fit dump you sef, you dey come do your body supreme owner. Nsehunu sei!”

That statement hit Joojo pretty hard in the gut. Especially the aspect of him being replaceable.

The breaking point had been touched, and before anyone could intervene, Joojo’s frustration boiled over.

In a moment of blind rage, he lunged forward, grabbing Alex by the shirt.

He barked loudly, “Wo maame t**!”

And threw a fist, delivering a punch to Alex’s face.

Alex fell off his chair and onto the floor, yelping in pain.

The room fell into a deathly silence, the shock of Joojo’s actions reverberating through the air.

Breathing heavily, Joojo rose to his feet.

And looked around.

So many faces staring at him. With so many contrasting emotions.

From horror to shock to disgust to pure anger.

He stood frozen, the realization of his foolishness dawning on him as he looked at the stunned faces around him.

The absolute revulsion on the faces of Mr. and Mrs. Frimpong.

The anger on Abena’s face while she helped Alex up.

It was in that moment he knew…

…he had messed up monumentally.

Oh my goodness, Joojo! How stupid could you be? Of all the things to do at your girl’s father’s birthday party. Smh. You’ve definitely messed things up…