I Was the Quiet Girl in 300 Level. No One Knew What I Did With the Lecturer.

Back in 2019, I was in 300 level at Unilorin. I was the shy girl from a strict home , never went to parties, always wore my hair in a simple ponytail. Everyone thought I was a saint. But inside, I was tired of being invisible.

There was this lecturer, Mr. Adebayo. He taught our GES course. He was maybe 38, married with two kids. He noticed me during one of those boring tutorials when I stayed back to ask a question. He started calling me to his office to 'discuss my grade.' First time, I thought nothing of it. Second time, he touched my hand. Third time, he kissed me.

I did not stop him. I wanted to feel wanted. So I started seeing him. We would meet in his office after 5pm when everyone had gone. He gave me money , 10k, 15k. He helped me with assignments. I told myself it was just a transaction. But after a few weeks, I began to like the attention. I would dress differently for him. I would lie to my roommates about where I was going.

One evening, his wife called his phone while I was in his office. He ignored it. I saw her name on the screen , 'Tolani.' Something in me broke. I realised I was just a side piece. I ended it the next week. He was angry, said I was ungrateful. I carried that shame for a long time.

Now I am 28, married to a good man. I never told him. But I think about that girl in 300 level , how desperate she was for anyone to see her. The lesson I carry? Attention is not love. And no amount of money can buy back your dignity.