PT3: Ko ko ko, what is in my Cupboard

“What is wrong with you”

“Talk to us”

The number of times 

I was asked that question 

In five minutes 

Did no good.

It jolted to life 

Memories suppressed for years 

As far back as 60 calendar months.

The first distinct memory 

Was my first night in Aunty’s house. 

I remember waking up scared

Because I was alone.

And coughing 

From the neighbor’s blue tiger generator exhaust seeping into the only window of the room.

It’s no surprise I’d wake under such conditions

It wasn’t the familiar, clean, crisp, cool air 

And quiet night I had grown accustomed to 

From living most of my life in my mother’s town.

It was different. 

It was loud, hot, smoky and choking.

What I thought was to be a night of visit 

Became 365 nights 

365 nights to 740 nights 

740 nights to 1105 nights 

And 8 visits from those who left me there in the first place.

The second memory that came to me 

Was the one that haunted me the most

The secret in my cupboard.

Ifedolapo