chapter 11

After graduating from senior high school at the age of 17, Anjola was faced with a decision. His father, Adebayo, wanted him to pursue a degree in computer science, a practical and lucrative field that would ensure a stable future. But Anjola had other plans. He had always been fascinated by the human body, by the way it worked and the way it healed. After his own experiences with sickle cell anemia, he developed a deep compassion for those who suffered from the illness. So, against his father's wishes, Anjola decided to pursue a degree in medicine. He was accepted into the prestigious Federal University of Technology, Akure [FUTA] in Ondo State, and he set off with a sense of excitement and determination. It wouldn't be easy. The coursework was challenging and the hours were long, But Anjola was driven by a desire to make a difference, and to use his knowledge and skills to help others. Anjola's first year at FUTA was a whirlwind of new experiences and challenges. He quickly made friends with his classmates, bonding over late-night study sessions and sharing struggles. And when his results came in, Anjola was thrilled to see that he had earned some of the top grades in his department. He had worked hard, pouring countless hours into his studies, and it had paid off. His professor one who he was close with and was like a mentor to him Mr Akin took notice of his result, singling him out of praise and encouragement. He saw in him a bright and promising student, one who was destined to make a difference in the world of medicine. Anjola was humbled by his praise, but he was also motivated to push himself even harder. He knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but he was determined to succeed. By the time Anjola reached his fourth year at FUTA, he had established himself as one of the top students in his department. He was known for his intelligence and hard work, and his professors often sought him out for research opportunities and leadership roles.  But it wasn't just his academic achievements that defined Anjola's time at FUTA. In his fourth year, he met a girl named Aduke, a fellow medical student with a bright smile and quick wit. They hit it off immediately, bonding over their shared passion for medicine and their love of Nigerian literature. Over time, their friendship deepened, and Anjola found himself drawn to Aduke in a way he had never experienced before. They spent long hours studying together and discussing. As their friendship grew, Anjola began to open up to Aduke about his struggles with sickle cell anemia. She listened with empathy and compassion, offering words of encouragement and support whenever he needed it. And when he had a particularly bad crisis, one that left him bedridden in his apartment outside of campus, Aduke didn't hesitate to step up, she packed a bag and moved in with him, nursing him back to health with a gentle touch, his medications and a supply of his favorite food. Anjola was touched by her kindness, and he knew that his feelings for Aduke were much more than friendship. But he was also hesitant, afraid to risk the bond they had built. As the two spent more time together, Anjola's feelings for Aduke only grew stronger. He tried to ignore them for the sake of their friendship. But the more time he spent with her, the harder it became to deny the truth of his heart. Finally, one afternoon, as they sat together, Anjola knew he couldn't hold back any longer. He took Aduke's hand, his heart racing as he looked into her eyes. ''Aduke,'' he said, his voice trembling. '' I need to tell you something. I've fallen in love with you.'' To his relief, Aduke didn't pull away. Instead, she smiled, her eyes shining with tears. '' I love you too, Anjola,'' she said. '' I always have.'' And just like that Aduke and just like that, Anjola and Aduke's friendship blossomed into something more. As their time at FUTA drew to a close, Anjola and Aduke were at the top of their class. They had both passed their final exams with flying colors, and their professors were eager to see what they would accomplish next. One professor in particular, Mr Akin, took a special interest in Anjola's career. He saw potential in Anjola and knew he would impact greatly on the medical world, and was determined to help him achieve his goals. So when a job opening came up at one of the best hospitals in Akure, Mr Akin pulled some strings to get Anjola an interview. Anjola was nervous, but he knew he had what it took to succeed. On the day of the interview, Anjola put on his best suit and walked into the hospital with his head held high. He answered every question with confidence and grace, impressing the interviewers with his knowledge and passion for medicine. After what felt like an eternity, Anjola's interview came to an end. The panel of interviewers thanked him for his time and told him to wait in the reception area while they deliberated. Anjola made his way to the waiting area, his mind racing with a million thoughts. Had he done enough to impress the panel? Would they offer him the position? He sat down on one of the plush chairs, his palms sweating as he waited for the verdict. Every minute felt like an hour, and Anjola couldn't help but fidget nervously. After a long period of waiting, the receptionist appeared. Anjola's heart skipped a beat as he saw the smile on her face. '' Mr. Anjola,'' she said, her voice full of warmth. '' Congratulations! The panel was impressed with your qualifications and they would like to offer you the position.'' Anjola couldn't believe his ears. He had done it! He had landed his dream job. He stood up, shaking the receptionist's hand with a smile stretched ear to ear. '' Thank you so much,'' he said, his voice filled with gratitude. The receptionist smiled back, handing him a letter that outlined the details of his new position. ''Welcome aboard, Mr. Anjola,'' she said. '' We're thrilled to have you on our team.'' Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, Anjola couldn't wait to share the good news with his loved ones. He first called his grandmother, who had always been a pillar of strength and support throughout his life. She wept tears of joy upon hearing the news, and Anjola could feel her pride and love even through the phone. Next, he called his father, who had initially been hesitant about Anjola's career choice but had supported him nonetheless. Adebayo was thrilled to hear about his son's success despite what has been said to him. Finally, Anjola shared the news with Aduke. She had been by his side every step of the way, and her love and encouragement had meant the world to him. They celebrated together, their hearts full of love and excitement for the future.

A year later, after  Anjola and Aduke had finally gotten their dream jobs, Anjola knew that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Aduke. So one day as the two of them were out on an outing, Anjola got down on his knee, his heart racing as he asked her to marry him. Aduke said yes, her eyes shining with tears of joy, and they began planning their wedding. The big day finally arrived, and Anjola and Aduke were surrounded by family and friends as they exchanged vows and celebrated their love. It was a beautiful and emotional day, and Anjola felt grateful for all the blessings in his life. As they embarked on their new journey together, Anjola knew that he had everything he could ever want. He had a fulfilling career, a loving wife, and the support of his family. He had faced many challenges along the way most especially his medical condition, but he had never given up on his dream. And now, as he looked ahead to the future, he knew that he was ready for whatever life might bring. THE END

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