Ada!

The Wait: When Inaction becomes regret

David Oletu (DCM)

This story is beyond just a love story. It’s a reflection of how we admire something and refuse to take action towards getting the things we need.

 

“I showed you love as friends should,” Ada continued, “but I never knew I was inadvertently turning your feelings on. I’m sorry, Dave.”…

—But with time, I began to confront the reality: Ada was engaged, and our love story would remain unwritten.

Though wounded, I vowed to move forward, cherishing the memories of our friendship.

Our friendship, though imperfect, remained precious.

Love, though unrequited, still taught me valuable lessons.

Heartbreak, though painful, perhaps would shape me into a stronger person.

I wish I knew better!

Ada!

The day unfolded like a canvas of gold and blue, with the warm sunlight stretching across the horizon as morning dawned. 

The sky was a brilliant blue as if the heavens themselves were smiling down on the world.

And The air was alive with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. 

The gentle breeze whispered through the trees, rustling leaves and carrying the promise of new beginnings.

It was one of those rare days where time seemed to stand still, where every moment felt like an eternity, and every breath was a gift. 

As I stood on the winding road, with the warm sun casting long shadows behind me,

I gazed into the distance with anticipation building in my chest, awaiting the presence of my beautiful best friend, Ada. 

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the horizon. It was Ada!

Her dark skin glistened like polished ebony in the sunlight. 

With each step, her modest elegance unfolded before me—

the gentle sway of her slender frame, the graceful length of her neck, and her bright eyes that sparkled like stars.

As she drew closer, her smile illuminated the landscape, its radiance rivalling the sun’s warmth. 

Her tall, lithe figure moved with the poise of a gazelle, each step a portrayal of quiet confidence.

My heart swelled with affection,

and I couldn’t help but admire the beauty approaching me—Ada, my dear best friend, with a presence that commanded attention without seeking it.

Her radiant smile captured me. 

Ada!

“Hey, Dave!” She greeted me, with her soothing voice that sent shivers down my spine. I blushed.

“Hey, Ada,” I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

Many pleasantries were forgotten in the excitement of our date. I couldn’t wait to sweep her off her feet. 

“Shall we?” I asked, my eyes locked on hers.

Ada’s smile deepened, understanding the moment. She nodded, her eyes sparkling.

I took her hand, leading her to my car. 

Opening the door, I helped her in, treating her like royalty. 

As we drove to the classic “Shoot Your Shot” restaurant, anticipation built.

As we stepped into the ‘Shoot Your Shot’ restaurant, the warm glow of soft lighting enveloped us, immediately setting a sophisticated tone. 

Ada, resplendent in her stunning red gown, turned heads as we entered.

The fitted dress hugged her curves, accentuating her dark skin.

I, dressed in my sleek black suit, felt dashing alongside my beautiful companion. 

Together, we made a striking pair, our contrasting attire adding to the excitement of our date.

As we were led to our table, the soft rustle of Ada’s gown and the click of her heels on the polished floor added to the sensual atmosphere. 

We exchanged a glance, our eyes locking in a moment of mutual attraction.

The promise of a memorable day hung in the air, like the tantalising scent of the restaurant’s signature dishes.

As we settled into our table at ‘Shoot Your Shot,’ I couldn’t help but think about the journey that had brought us there. 

Four years of laughter, school projects, and shared dreams had forged an unbreakable bond between Ada and me. 

We had graduated and now was the perfect moment to reveal a secret I’d kept hidden for far too long.

The warm glow of the sun streamed through the restaurant’s windows, casting a golden light on Ada’s face. 

Her dark skin glowed, and her bright smile illuminated the space around us. I felt my heart skip a beat as I gazed at her.

My heart had been racing at the thought of confessing my feelings to Ada. 

I had always admired her intelligence, kindness, and beauty, but my shy nature had held me back.

What if she hadn’t felt the same way I felt for her? I thought.

“Here’s our menu list, sir.

What would you love to order?” A waiter approached us.

I collected the menu list and glanced through it, excitedly.

“Give me this.” I indicated my choice of meal to the waiter.

“And you, ma’am? What would you love to order?” The waiter asked Ada.

“I’d just take whatever he takes,” Ada said to the waiter. 

“Alright! Would be right back,” the waiter said, as he exited. 

“So, Ada,” I began, my voice barely above a whisper, “I wanted to talk to you about something important.”

Ada looked up, her gaze meeting mine, filled with curiosity. 

“What is it, Dave?” She asked, her voice gentle.

This was it—the moment I’d been waiting for. 

“‘So, Ada, what do you think about me?’ I asked, my voice laced with nervousness.

“‘How do you mean?’ she enquired, her brow slightly furrowed.

“‘I mean, what do you feel about me?’ I pressed on.

Ada’s expression softened. “Come on, Dave! We’ve been friends for years, so you should know how much I cherish you.”

I hesitated, searching for more. “Uhmmmm… Anything else?” 

Ada’s eyes narrowed playfully. “What do you want me to say?”

I shrugged, feigning nonchalance. “Nothing. Nothing.”

“But Ada sensed something. “Dave, is there something you want to tell me?” She asked, her voice gentle.

I took a deep breath, the words trembling on my lips. 

“Well, I…”

Just as I was about to confess, the waiter arrived with our food, shattering the intimate moment. 

“Here’s your order, Sir and Ma!’ he announced, setting the dishes down. “Enjoy your meal!” he said, with a big smile on his face, and left.

The distraction made my courage falter.

My words stuck in my throat, and the moment was lost. Everything I wanted to say was erased, leaving only silence.

Ada’s eyes left mine, her gaze drifting to her plate as she began arranging her food. 

“So, what were you saying?”

She asked, her voice casual, but her tone hinting at lingering curiosity.

“‘Uhmmm… You know what? Let’s just toast and eat.

I’ll speak later,” I said, trying to sound nonchalant.

Ada nodded, her eyes flicking back to mine for a brief moment. 

Though distracted by her food, her expression suggested she hadn’t forgotten my unfinished sentence.

We clinked glasses and took a sip of our drinks. 

The conversation flowed easily, shifting to lighter topics—school, friends, and plans for the future.

But beneath the surface, I sensed Ada’s curiosity remained piqued.

As we finished eating, Ada’s eyes locked onto mine, her expression inquiring.

“So, Dave, that reminds me, you wanted to say something,” she said, her voice gentle. “What was it?” she asked. 

Once again, courage surged through me like wildfire.

“‘Well, Ada…’ I began, my voice trembling. 

“‘The thing is…’ I paused, taking a deep breath.

Just as I was about to reveal my secret, Ada’s phone pierced the air, shattering the intimate moment.

She glanced at the screen, her expression apologetic.

“‘Sorry, I need to take this,” she said, standing up and excusing herself.

I watched, disappointed, as she walked away to answer the call. Who could be interrupting our moment? I wondered.

I waited patiently, my eyes fixed on Ada’s retreating figure. 

While waiting, I rehearsed my confession in my mind, determined to finally express my feelings when she returned.

A few minutes later, Ada returned, “Dave, I’m so sorry, I have to leave now.” she said. 

My heart sank, as this wasn’t how the day was supposed to end.

“I received an urgent call to start coming home,” she explained, her voice laced with regret. “I’m so sorry, Dave.”

I understood, but disappointment still stung. 

After four years of intimate friendship, I finally mustered the courage to reveal my feelings. But fate seems to have had other plans.

“‘No problem, Ada, we can go now,” I said, trying to sound calm, as I held her soft hands once again.

I led her to the car, and the weight of unspoken words settled on my mind.

As I drove, my mind replayed the missed opportunity. 

The perfect setting, the romantic atmosphere—all lost!

Revealing my feelings in the car wasn’t an option; I needed a more intimate, relaxed setting.

I consoled myself with the thought that there would be another chance. 

Perhaps soon, I’d find the courage to confess my long-held feelings to Ada.

The ride was quiet, our conversation light, but my heart remained heavy with unspoken emotions.

As I dropped her off at her house, I requested another date. 

“So, Ada, since our date was ruined, would you mind another one with me?” I asked.

Ada chuckled. “Oh, Dave, don’t talk like that. It wasn’t ruined. At least, we met!”

I smiled wistfully. “Oh please, that wasn’t how I planned it.”

Ada’s expression softened. “Okay, okay, Dave. Let’s plan for another date.”

“Tomorrow? Same place? By evening time?” I suggested.

Ada hesitated. “Well, let’s see how it goes.”

I pressed for a definite answer. “Can you give me a definite answer, please?”

“She’d be free tomorrow since today was Saturday.” I thought to myself, “After church hours tomorrow, we’ll go on our date.

That would be the perfect timing.

Sunday is a sacred day for worship; God would surely guide and bless our time together, bringing us closer in love and understanding.” 

Little did I know, I was just being overly optimistic.

“Alright, yes, I will,” Ada agreed, her smile radiant.

My heart swelled with excitement, rekindling the anticipation I’d felt earlier.

Yet, the sting of our interrupted time together still lingered.

“I’m so glad you said yes,” I said, trying to shake off the lingering disappointment.

I smiled, determined to focus on the promise of tomorrow’s date.

“Thank you, Ada,” I said, smiling.

“You’re welcome!” she replied, gathering her belongings to leave.

“I have to go now,” she announced, glancing at me expectantly.

“Alright, you can,” I said.

Ada’s smile turned playful. “So, you mean you can’t be that gentleman you were before?”

I furrowed my brow, confused. “Uhmmm… How do you mean?”

“You won’t open the car for me, ba?” she teased, her eyes sparkling.

I laughed, realization dawning. “Oh!!” I chuckled, recalling how I’d gallantly opened the door for her earlier.

Disappointment had clouded my mind, but Ada’s gentle reminder brought back the chivalry.

I came down from my vehicle, strode to her side, and opened the door for her excitedly.

“Alright, my queen. You got me there,” I said, bowing slightly as I helped her out of the car.

Ada giggled, her eyes shining with delight. “That’s better,” she whispered.

I watched Ada disappear into her blue-painted bungalow compound.

She was the epitome of elegance, a woman every man would desire. I was convinced that the next date would seal our fate.

In my mind, I felt Ada already loved me as deeply as I loved her and she was probably waiting for me to confess. 

Our history together reinforced such conviction in me.

Back in school, we were inseparable – attending classes, studying, and socializing together. 

Our peers affectionately called us “lovebirds,” and Ada never objected.

I had assumed our relationship would naturally progress. And I treated her like a girlfriend, showering her with attention and affection.

Subconsciously, I envisioned my future with her together in marriage, building a life, and growing old side by side.

My confidence stemmed from our effortless connection.

I felt there wasn’t a need to ask her out while we were in school because we were already inseparable.

Perhaps, my tomorrow’s date with her would be the perfect moment to reveal my feelings.

As I settled into my home, I rested, attempting to shake off the day’s disappointment.

But a few hours later, nervousness crept in, and my confidence in tomorrow’s date began to wane.

For the first time, I confronted the unsettling reality: I had never expressed my feelings to Ada.

Our long history together had lulled me into assumption, but now doubt crept in. “Does she see me as just a friend or a potential partner?” I questioned

In my culture, women rarely reveal their emotions first; they wait for the man to make the move.

Pride dictated their silence. I only hope that Ada was waiting for me to speak.

Kneeling beside my bed, I poured my heart out to God.

“Let Ada’s heart be receptive to my words tomorrow,” I prayed. “Give me the courage to express my feelings and grant me a positive response.”

I had prayed about this for four long years, yet hesitated to act.

Tonight’s prayer felt different; tomorrow would be my moment of truth.

Sunday morning dawned bright and clear, filled with promise. I attended church, and my heart filled with hope and anticipation. 

As I prayed during the service, I felt a sense of calm wash over me.

After church, I prepared for my date with Ada, choosing my outfit carefully. I wanted to make a lasting impression.

I arrived at “Shoot Your Shot” restaurant, the agreed-upon location, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. 

As I entered, I spotted Ada already seated, looking radiant in her yellow sundress. Her smile, as usual, lit up the room.

We exchanged warm greetings, and I took a seat across from her. 

The same cosy atmosphere and enticing aromas enveloped us, but this time, I was determined to make the most of our encounter.

Ada noticed my gaze and asked, “What’s on your mind, Dave?”

My moment of truth had finally arrived. 

Ada’s eyes sparkled. “That reminds me, I have good news!” she said.

I matched her enthusiasm. “Oh? What’s that? I also have a surprise for you.”

“Hmmmm… Looks like we both came here with loads of surprises. But I’ll share mine first.” she said.

“Okay, what is it?” I asked, intrigued by her excitement.

Ada proudly displayed her left wrist, twisting it for emphasis.

At first, I couldn’t get why she was showing me her fingers, but then my eyes locked onto the shining diamond ring on her middle finger.

My heart sank.

“Ada, what’s that?” I asked, trying to sound casual despite the growing unease.

Ada laughed, her eyes shining.

“Well, Dave, remember yesterday when my family called me back home?

You won’t believe it! They had planned a surprise for me!”

I forced a neutral tone. “Okay?”

“As I walked into my living room, I saw everyone gathered, and my boyfriend was kneeling, proposing. I couldn’t help but say yes!”

Ada exclaimed.

Her words crushed me.

“Your boyfriend?” My voice cracked. “You had a boyfriend?”

Ada’s expression turned puzzled. “Yes, I do.”

Her happiness only amplified my despair.

“What’s wrong, Dave?” Ada asked, noticing my devastated expression. “I thought you’d be happy for me,” she said. 

I struggled to conceal my true emotions, unsure how to react.

“What’s wrong, Dave? Talk to me.

This is supposed to be good news—my engagement,” Ada said, confusion etched on her face.

I struggled to find the words, realizing our friendship had blinded me to the truth.

“We’ve been walking under the umbrella of friendship all this while,” I thought to myself. “I have tread upon a dangerous kind of love.”

“Ada, I thought we were closer,” I ventured, my voice trembling.

“Closer?” she repeated, with curiosity in her eyes.

“I thought you loved me,” I confessed.

“Yes? I love you” Ada replied.

“Oh God!” I burst out, desperation creeping in.

“You’re not getting it. I thought you had feelings for me—romantic feelings.” I expressed, bluntly.

Ada’s expression transformed from confusion to shock.

“Feelings?” she echoed.

The air was thick with tension as I awaited her response.

Would Ada understand my confession? Would she reconsider her engagement?

The scene hangs in suspense.

Ada’s eyes widened, her gaze piercing mine. “Romantic feelings?” she whispered as if the words were foreign.

I nodded, my heart exposed. “Yes, Ada. I’ve loved you for so long. I thought… I thought you felt the same way.”

Ada’s face contorted, a mix of surprise and concern. “Dave, I had no idea. You never said anything.”

“I was afraid,” I admitted, my voice cracking. “I didn’t want to ruin our friendship.”

The silence that followed was deafening.

Ada’s eyes darted around the restaurant as if searching for an escape or clarity.

“Dave, I…” she began, her voice hesitant.

My heart hung in the balance.

“I only saw you as a friend,” Ada said gently.

“I never thought you developed any feelings for me. You could have spoken!” she added, a hint of regret in her voice.

“But, you showed me love!” I protested. “We went out together, played together. People called us love birds.

It all seemed like you were the only one for me, and I was the only one for you.

Isn’t that enough to show we had a future together?”

Ada sighed, her expression empathetic but firm.

“That’s not enough, Dave.

You should have spoken up to know my mind, my feelings, my engagements… But you never did.”

Her words stung, but I knew she was right.

“I showed you love as friends should,” Ada continued, “but I never knew I was inadvertently turning your feelings on. I’m sorry, Dave.”

The apology hung in the air, a bittersweet acknowledgement of what could have been.

Tears streamed down my face as I struggled to accept Ada’s apology.

The bittersweet moment drew attention from the other people at the “Shoot Your Shot” restaurant. Whispers and curious glances surrounded us.

Ada’s embarrassment grew as she tried to comfort me.

“Dave, stop it. You’re embarrassing me. Please, don’t create a scene,” she pleaded, wrapping her arms around me.

But I couldn’t contain my emotions. I knelt, in sorrow, as Ada’s hold on me tightened.

Uncertain how to respond, Ada helped me up, assuming the date was ruined once more. 

She guided me to my car, took the keys, and drove me home.

With gentle care, she led me to my bed, urging me to rest. “Let it out, Dave. I’ll always be here for you,” she whispered.

As I lay there, Ada sat beside me, her presence a comforting reminder of our enduring friendship.

Eventually, she left, knowing I needed solitude to process my heartbreak.

The silence enveloped me, a heavy blanket of sorrow. 

But with time, I began to confront the reality: Ada was engaged, and our love story would remain unwritten.

Days passed, and I gradually regained my footing. 

Though wounded, I vowed to move forward, cherishing the memories of our friendship.

Our friendship, though imperfect, remained precious.

Love, though unrequited, still taught me valuable lessons.

Heartbreak, though painful, perhaps would shape me into a stronger person.

I wish I knew better!

Ada!

Also Read: The Unripe Master (Heart touching story) – Diademng (thediademng.org)

Authors note:

This story is beyond just a love story. It’s a reflection of how we admire something and refuse to take action towards getting the things we need.

John 9:4 KJV

[4] I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.9.4.KJV 

Just like Dave, many times, we spend our time praying to get something achieved, but we refuse to put in the necessary actions to get it.

We only assume it’s ours already when there is less action.

God does not want that for us. He desires that we take action to shape our life in the good ways we imagined it to be, while we pray to Him.

I hope we reflect on this story and learn to act at the time we are supposed to.

Ada!