“I have cancer."

Afolabi’s smile froze. "Oh, wow."

Afolabi had been smiling and saying, "Have a good night," as people walked by him towards the exit.

The Human League concert they came for had finished, and it seemed everyone enjoyed it, as they were all full of smiles as they climbed up the stairs towards the exit.

Afolabi was one of the several event stewards stationed at different blocks on the first floor of the 23,000 capacity event centre. He had walked up and down before and during the event as he ushered people to their seat.

Now the show had ended, and everyone was on their way out.

The 5 feet 9 inches tall middle-aged man that stood before him was one of the last people exiting the block that Afolabi was manning.

The man stretched his right hand for a handshake. "I am sorry for throwing that at you, but I couldn’t bring myself to tell my kids or even my girlfriend."

Afolabi held the man’s hand. "I’m sorry to hear that. But they deserve to know."

"Yes, they do. However, it will mess up Christmas for my daughter, step-son, and grandchild."

"Fair enough. But what about your girlfriend?"

The man shook his head. "Her last boyfriend had died of cancer. I can't bring myself to tell her."

"Oh wow."

"I'm really sorry to throw this on you like this, but I had no one I could tell."

Afolabi squeezed the man's man in what he hoped was reassuring. "It's alright, I totally understand. How long do you have?"

The man gave a sad smile. "They didn't tell me. But it's not looking good. I have lost weight drastically."

"Miracles do happen."

"I know they do. But I won't hold my breath."

"Don't stop believing."

The man shrugged. "I came here to create and have good memories to hold on to as my time expires. And I enjoyed myself tonight."

The man looked up the stairs. and Afolabi turned to follow his gaze. There was a small, slim, dark-haired lady waiting for him at the exit door. The man smiled at her and gesticulated to say he would soon join her. The lady nodded and smiled back.

Afolabi turned back to the man. "Your girlfriend?"

The man sighed. "Yes." He tightened his grip. "So what's your name?"

"Afolabi."

"Ha four.."

Afolabi smiled. "Just call me Afro nappies."

The man smiled. "Okay, Afro nappies, thank you for listening."

Afolabi smiled back. “It’s well with you."

The man released Afolabi's hand and patted his shoulder as he walked away. "Thank you. God bless you."

"You too."

Afolabi watched as the man got to his girlfriend, kissed her, and they both walked away together.

Signed
Olumide Holloway (King Olulu)

Based on a true life event.