Daniel and I continued our routine phone calls. Along the line, I got to know a lot of things about him. Mr Paul do call me too, to ask of my well being. He’s very friendly. He relates with me as if we’ve known each other for ages. I was happy to have these two great guys in my life.

****

Few weeks later, Daniel stopped calling. He wasn’t available online either. I was worried; I just hope he’s fine. I decided to give him a call, at least for someone who calls almost everyday and stooped suddenly, I think courtesy demands that I check on him.

I called all his two lines, but none went through. I thought of Mr. Paul; he should have more information on him. I dialed his number;

“Hello, Mr Paul."

“Hello dear, how are you today?"

“Mr Paul, I’m good. Please...”

“I know why you’re calling. I tried reaching him countless times but his lines are off.”

“What do you suggest we do now? I have this strange feeling that something is wrong. He can’t just abandon everything he’s spent money on here and then disappear into thin air.” I said.

“I’ve sent him several emails; he is yet to reply to any of them. I even tried to get in touch through his company in America but all my efforts on reaching him proved abortive.

"What are we going to do now?" I asked.

My cousin is leaving East Africa for the State next week. I think he would help us get in touch with him.”

“Next week?!"

“Daniella!” he called out.

“Yes!”

“He’s... coming... back.”

“I don’t mind if he doesn’t come back; I just pray he is safe. He can decide to stay, but I want to be sure that he is safe.”

“See! Just relax. Let’s pray for him.”

“I’ve been doing that for weeks now.”

“Then let’s leave everything to God. You know what... I can see you are very tensed. Can we go out, maybe to the cinema?”

“Is that a date?” I asked.

“Let’s not call it a date; I just want to make you relax.”

“OK. Cinema it is then.”

“Good. I’ll pick you up tomorrow by 7pm.”

“Alright then, see you tomorrow.“

“Have a lovely night. Get some rest.”

“You too, good night”

****

He picked me up the next day and we went to the cinema. He said he’ll be the one to pick the movie to watch.

"No problem – as long as it’s not a crime or horror movie – that’s the last thing I need right now."

We watched a romantic comedy. The movie was so hilarious I almost spilled my drink on myself. In fact, I had to handover my drink and popcorn to him.

“I think I succeeded in making you laugh,” he said after the movie ended.

“Yes, I really enjoyed myself.” I said, all smiling.

“I can see that. We can do this again, if you don’t mind.”

“I don’t mind at all, I had fun. Thanks so much.”

“Let’s take you home, it’s getting late.”

We strolled down to the parking lot. Some minutes later, we were out of the place.

On our way home, I thought of Daniel. I really miss his voice.

“A penny for your thought,” Mr. Paul said.

I just smiled sheepishly.

“Daniel right?” he asked.

“I know I just met him and we are just friends, but Daniel seems to be too good. I pray everyday for him that no harm should come his way.”

“Next week is just around the corner dear, let's wait till then.”

“Thanks, I really enjoyed myself today. I’m sorry I brought this up again.”

“It’s okay. I understand and I appreciate your concern; a lady like you is rare.”

He parked in front of my house.

“Thank you! I’m really relieved. Thanks for the treat.”

“It’s nothing. Take care of yourself. Call me if you need anything.”

“OK. Thanks. Good night and drive safe.”

“I will. Good night.”

I alighted. He reversed and zoom off.

He called the following week and gave me a news – the news wasn’t pleasing at all.

“God, please intervene.” I prayed silently.

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