The Decision

“Larry! What are you saying? Don't tell me that you are planning to date that girl. She has just a few days or weeks to live. You are not even a university graduate yet.” Caleb was so angry with Larry with the thought of dating Sophia. He only wanted him to be there for her during her last moment. Larry couldn't lie about his feelings for Sophia. It was a love that emanated from a true friendship. 

He told himself that he would stand by Sophia till the end. Larry's parents didn't object to his idea of dating Sophia because her stay at their place was full of joyful memories—especially her last visit on her birthday. It was a glorious occasion. Sandra danced and joined Sophia to sing. Both girls entertained everyone that was in attendance.

Larry was a very calm and calculative young man and full of humor. At first glance, most people would think he was very unserious. But he knew better and he knew how to get what he wanted out of life.

He knew that Sophia chose Berkeley as her first choice. He talked to Sandra who gave him the information. , he decided to apply to Berkeley as his first choice too. It wasn't a coincidence. He had always wanted to attend the same school as Sophia. He was so happy the day he got his admission letter and called Sandra immediately to find out about Sophia's admission status but unfortunately for him, Sophia's letter was delayed due to her scholarship process. Sandra told him eventually when Sophia got her letter and he was glad to receive the news. They were so close until he got the devastating news about her health. He couldn’t think of losing her.

 ***

“Sandra, how can I cope without you? You’ve been my backbone since day one. How will I manage bullies?” Tears filled Sophia’s eyes. Sandra had been her defense during their high school days. They were seen together at every point except in the library. That was one thing Sophia liked that Sandra didn’t. Sandra read books but not as Sophia did. Sophia could read for hours at a stretch and frequently visited the library. 

“Sophia! Don't worry. We will talk on Skype. You won't miss me that much. Please don't even do a repeat of the show that Caleb did yesterday. He was crying like a baby, as though I’m leaving the face of the earth.” 

Sandra didn't want to show Sophia how much she would miss them. Though her school was not as far as Sophia's, St. Louis was closer to home than Berkeley. It was like a 6-hour drive from Cape Town. Cape Town was a small town in Purry with a lovely neighborhood. They had the best security because they protected themselves. They are mostly occupied by black Americans, with a mixed class of people. One thing that was very remarkable about this neighborhood was their love for each other. They cared and celebrate together as though they were related by blood. It was clear how Sandra and Sophia were able to bond like Sisters.

“Please don't forget the promise I made to you. I made it with so much joy,” Sandra said, lifting the bag off the table where it was. 

“Of course, I won't forget it.” 

“I left a gift for you on my bed but you are only permitted to open it when I’m gone.”

“Alright no problem, I can wait,” Sophia said.

Sandra had left a photo frame of their graduation picture they took together and a note of their friendship.  

“It's almost time for the bus to arrive, Sophia, I don't want to be late. Can you help me with this bag, please? Caleb will soon be here to take me to the bus station,” Sandra said and saw Caleb walking towards them. “Oh, speaking of the devil, here he is. Sophia, please bring the bags.”

Saying goodbye was a little difficult for them but Sandra had to leave. Sophia was feeling it much because she was yet to leave for school. She cried home though her mum was there to comfort her. She couldn't wait before nightfall to call Sandra. She was very excited to hear from her. Sandra didn’t wait to start describing her school, the environment, the buildings, and a lot more. She introduced her newfound friend and roommate to Sophia. They were so excited to talk to Sophia. They have heard so much about her already in a short while. That was how Sandra was so fond of Sophia.