Chapter Thirty-Six

That night, just as Dera was about to head to her bedroom after dinner, Andrew tugged on her hand and led her outside.

'Andrew, where are we going?' Dera asked, curious.

'Come with me to the shop. We need to retrieve your bicycle,' Andrew replied.

'Really?' Dera's eyes lit up with excitement upon hearing Andrew's words. 'Right now?' she asked, her grip tightening around Andrew's hand.

'I wasn't thrilled when you mentioned selling the gift I gave you. It was a tough decision for you to make. But I'm relieved it hasn't been sold yet. Now you can ride it to school,' Andrew said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Dera let out a joyful giggle as she clung to Andrew's hand, eagerly leading the way out of the house.

When Beatrice, who was in the living room sewing a torn curtain, noticed them standing at the front door, she curiously enquired, 'Where are you guys going?'

'To retrieve my bicycle!' Dera exclaimed, her excitement evident.

Beatrice smiled warmly. 'Can't that wait until morning?' She glanced at Andrew and Dera, a hint of concern in her eyes.

Dera's gaze shifted to the worn beige sofa on which her mother sat. She had been hoping to replace the frayed and tattered cushions that adorned the three sorry-looking sofas in the living room. Despite the worn-out appearance, the rickety centre table proudly displayed a flower vase containing freshly picked flowers. Each morning, before heading to school, Dera took special care to tend to the flowers, nurturing them with love and attention.

'We really want to go now,' Andrew insisted.

'Off you go then,' Beatrice acquiesced, waving them off with a gentle gesture.

Dera and Andrew embarked on their journey. The darkness of the night had already settled over Mbaitoli, unlike the well-lit streets of the capital city, Owerri. However, the neighbouring houses illuminated the surroundings, offering a comforting glow.

Finally, the duo reached their shop. Andrew unlocked the broken door and they stepped inside. He switched on the lights, revealing the contents of the shop, and made his way to the bicycle. Together, they carried it home.

Back at their residence, Dera parked her bicycle in its usual spot behind the kitchen door. As she turned to head towards her bedroom, Andrew leaned in and planted a tender kiss on her cheek. She was his adorable little sister. 'Good night, kid sis,' he whispered affectionately, his heart brimming with excitement. It was the excitement of an elder brother who loved his little sister deeply, second only to their parents. Dera was irreplaceable. Andrew knew that only a resilient girl like Dera could endure hardships and remain strong. Most of the girls he knew would have given up along the way, but Dera, even without openly expressing her hope, exuded an unbeatable spirit.

Just as Andrew was about to head to his bedroom, Dera surprised him by hugging him from behind. 'Thank you for everything,' she whispered gratefully.

'Don't mention it,' Andrew replied warmly.

'Thanks, big brother.'

'I did what I should do. You're my adorable little sister, and it's my responsibility to take care of you,' he affirmed.

Tears welled up in Dera's eyes as she gently tiptoed and kissed Andrew's forehead. 'Good night.'

The following morning, Dera picked up her school bag from the centre table in the living room and bid farewell to Andrew, who was engrossed in a book. Just as she was about to leave, she turned back and skipped towards Andrew. With her school bag in hand, she hugged him happily and kissed his forehead. 'Don't forget to miss me.'

Andrew laughed affectionately. 'I won't.' He returned the forehead kiss and urged her to head to school to avoid being late.

'Bye!' Dera waved cheerfully at her brother, skipping away while humming a tune.

Andrew smiled, his gaze returning to his book.