EAGLE FROM THE RUBBLE: CHAPTER 45

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Later, Obioha wanted to know why he was looking so sickly and Fr. Richard informed him that he had been battling with a terminal heart disease for several years. He had been abroad all this while trying to get a cure but it had seemed that cure would be long in coming he added jokingly. He told him the doctors said he reported late for treatment. Had he been earlier before his condition deteriorated, it would have made a great difference.

In all these, what surprised Obioha was that Fr. Richard remained in high spirits while talking about his illness. He told him he was on a brief visit to the country and was actually in Lagos, in preparation to leaving the country again. When Obioha asked how long he intended to stay abroad, he told him he had no idea.

Meanwhile, he made Obioha go back to school to complete his course of study. He introduced him to the Vicar of the Secretariat who after several consultations, agreed that the diocese would offer him accommodation in the Secretariat and also pay his fees till he graduated. In other words, he was adopted by the diocese.

Finally, the time came for Fr. Richard to leave the country for Germany in continuation of his treatment. Obioha could not control his tears as he held him for the last time at the airport.

"I am going to miss you" Fr. Richard said.

Obioha merely nodded. He did not trust himself to speak

"But remember, life is what you make it. Whether I am around or not, always remember that God loves you and has a special plan for you." Obioha nodded once more. "Take your studies seriously. As I told you earlier, I will arrange for scholarship for you when I get there."

"Thank you, Father, I will never disappoint you again," he promised.

They hugged once more and Fr. Richard gingerly made his way to the departure hall.