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Jordan and Shika are keeping their relationship low key and enjoying each other’s company. Jordan has been keeping a strictly professional church working relationship with Imelda.

SHIKA

Jay and I sat on the carpet in the middle of the sitting area as we played Oware¹ and other games. It was a cool holiday, I will be meeting his parents tomorrow. He came over to calm my nerves before the visit.

Suddenly, I got a call from the security that Ruby (my mother) was making her way to my apartment. I forgot to remove her name from the visitors’ list after her last visit. She lied about her arrival time, I am expecting her in two weeks.

“Babe, I know this is unexpected but I need you to leave right away or hide in my bedroom’’ I stated.

“Why?” he asked

”My mother is here” I answered.

“We aren’t doing anything bad, and I have always wanted to meet the famous Ruby. I am not moving an inch” he debated.

He was right, I was just not ready for Ruby’s antics. Not long, the doorbell rang, the diva has landed. Ruby looked elegant in her well-tailored trousers with a blouse to match, tying a scarf round her neck. Her locks were held in a bun. My mother is undeniably beautiful, and seeing her gives me confidence that I’ll age beautifully too.

“Welcome Ruby” we greeted each other with la bise².

“Thank you, my love”

She glided into the apartment with poise. Jay stood up to greet her.

“Good afternoon Ma” he greeted.

“Good afternoon young man, and call me Ruby” she responded while observing him.

“Ruby, this is Jordan my boyfriend, Jordan, this is my mother, Ruby” I introduced them as they shook hands.

“This one is young, last year you swore you were off men. He must be doing something right, in the bedroom I guess” Ruby blurted and I rolled my eyes. Jordan was stunned.

“No, Ma…sorry Ruby. I will not disrespect your daughter or your family that way” Jay stuttered.

“Sex is not disrespectful, I know my daughter is not a virgin” Ruby said and Jay’s jaw dropped.

“He is a pastor” I said in an attempt to warn her to watch her words, and gestured for all of us to sit.

“Oh! Pastor? I didn’t know Pastors came in sexy packages, but priests? Yes, but not pastors especially the Ghanaian ones are usually not this sexy. Goldie, be a darling and get me something strong to drink’’ she requested. Jay still did not know what to say.

“I have red wine” I offered.

“Ew, I should have bought the vodka I saw in the shop. Here, got you something” she said as she reached into her designer tote bag and handed me a box. It was an expensive brand of perfume.

“Thank you, Ruby” I said as I placed it on the coffee table and walked to the kitchen to bring her water and juice.

“So, Jordan, what do you do? I guess you are not just a pastor” I heard Ruby ask Jay.

“I am a physiotherapist” he answered and she went on about a pain in her spine.

I placed the tray of drinks on the centre table and watched Jay walk over to her to examine her back.

“Jay, don’t. We will book an appointment at the hospital” I protested.

“It is alright”

In no time, he asked her to lay on the couch and massaged her back and shoulders. Ruby kept letting out moans and sighs of relief.

“Shika, keep this one. I like the free massages” Ruby said as she sat up, looking relieved.

“We will see what the Lord will do” I said.

For a while, Jordan and Ruby were chatting. He managed to get comfortable around her and they conversed about politics and music. I was surprised at how at ease the two of them were.

Later Jordan received a call and had to leave.

“Just like that? no kiss? give me some action!” she yelled at Jay as he made his exit.

“He is a pastor Mum” I said again.

“Not an eunuch!” she retorted and Jay just smiled and planted a peck on my cheek before going.

“Boooooo!!!” Ruby jeered.

“Well, what is wrong? You behaved yourself today” I said as soon as it was just the two of us.

“Contrary to the popular image you have of me, I am a nice person. So apart from amazing massages, what else will you be getting from him? Pastors are the wealthiest in these parts of late” Ruby remarked.

“I have not yet received massages. We have agreed to abstain till marriage…” I started.

“Marriage!!!!! Is he a billionaire or something? You know how I feel about marriage. A useless entity unless you are getting half of the man’s wealth” she interrupted.

“No, he is not a billionaire but we love each other and we get each other. He is there for me, like I have my own person…” I said, realising I have never uttered these words to Jay.

“So, he can be your person without marriage. You know how I feel about marriage. I love you, you love me, what has the government got to do with it? You do not need a legal document to make someone your property. Life and love are fluid. Why restrict yourself?” she said.

“Well, I want marriage, I want the children with the house and everything. A stable, normal one” I said.

“Normal is overrated my dear. It was just you and I. See how great you turned out!” she exclaimed.

There was no point in arguing with Ruby. I was not ready to rehash the challenges of growing up alone, moving from auntie to auntie and the various treatments I endured. The instability of her, when Ruby is around, we have a good time for about a month or two and then away, she is gone touring somewhere in the world.

We ended up chatting about her life in Ireland, she wants to relocate back to Ghana. She was tired of her boyfriend and the life there. She is planning to open a bar with live band or music. I wish her all the best.

Following day

JORDAN

Shika’s mother is so interesting, now I see where she gets those beautiful looks from. Later today, she will be coming over. She has been here just twice and that was the Iron and Fire event day. We spend most of our time together at her jewellery store, and very few in her apartment to avoid tempting situations. I cannot wait for my parents to meet her, my mother has been giddy the whole day.

Not long, Dennis, the help came to my room to notify me that I have a visitor. I looked at my watch, Shika was scheduled to arrive at 3pm, why is she here two hours earlier?

I go downstairs and there stood Imelda. I was shocked to see her. She looked beautiful as always.

“Hello Imelda” I greeted in a strict tone.

“Hello Jordan” she greeted back with the saddest face I have ever seen. She was carrying a box of pastries.

“What brings you here? And how did you know the location of my house?” I asked, confused because I deliberately conceal where I live from church members. I meet most of my youth members at the church premises or public spaces.

“I apologise, but I contacted one of the teens to reach out to your friend called Kwei, a mentor from the event. I pleaded with him before he sent me the location. Don’t get mad at him, I was really convincing” she pleaded.

“I am very uncomfortable with this” I stated.

“I only came to apologise, I crossed the line with disagreeing on who you date and reacting the way I did after the Akosombo trip. I have prayed on it. Honestly, I guess it was jealousy. I hate sharing my friends and I guard them jealously. I am working on it because no one is perfect. I brought these to say sorry” she said as she offered me the box.

Immediately, my mother barged in from the kitchen.

“Good afternoon Ma” Imelda greeted as soon as she saw her.

“Good afternoon young lady, let me take a good look at you” my mother said, I realised she thinks Imelda is my girlfriend.

“What is your name?” mother asked.

“Imelda” she answered with a broad smile.

“Imelda is my friend, like a sister” I quickly added with a straight face.

“Oh…not… okay” my mother stuttered, realising her error.

“Ma, I brought some pastries for the family, where should I place them?” Imelda asked.

”Aww, how sweet! Thank you. I will take them” my mother said.

“No. Ma, let me help you carry it” Imelda insisted and my mother led her to the kitchen.

They returned and mother thanked her once again before leaving.

“As I was saying before we were wonderfully interrupted. I am sorry and I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me” she pleaded.

“Sure, it is alright” I said and we shook hands.

“Oh! This looks interesting!” Imelda exclaimed noticing an interview with Bishop Odame being aired on the television. She sat down. I guess she can hang around for a bit.

Time flew by fast, I was also engrossed watching the interview with her that I did not notice Shika enter the hall. She looked amazing, I was happy she did not change her look. Yesterday, she was so nervous and was insisting on wearing a wig and a boubou. I told her my mother will see right through her and we laughed.

She was carrying a beautiful basket of exotic fruits, some of my mum’s favourites were in there (grapes, pomegranates, strawberries etc.). This must cost a fortune! I quickly ran and took the basket from her, setting it on a table nearby.

“Hello Love” I greeted as I embraced her.

“Shika you are welcome” Imelda greeted.

“Hi” Shika replied a straight face.

Just then, my mother waltzed in.

“Good afternoon Mrs. Lawson” Shika greeted.

“Mom, meet Shika” I interjected.

“Good afternoon Shika, how are you?”

“She brought your favourite” I said as I carried the basket to my mother to admire before carrying it to the kitchen.

Shika sat by Imelda on the three-seater sofa while my mother sat on the single one. I came back and perched on the ottoman at the other end.

“I love your hair, where do you get it dyed?” my mother asked Shika.

“At Bliss Hair Studio” Shika answered.

“Looks so good, I used to rock a burgundy buzz cut like this in my day”

“I can imagine how great you looked, you still do now. I cannot wait to see pictures” Shika said

“I should find time and look for them. So, do you all attend Radiant life too?” my mother asked the ladies.

“Yes” they answered in unison.

“Well, I should pay a visit one of these days. Are you also pastors?” she asked.

“No, we are both in the choir” Imelda answered.

“Oh wow, that is lovely” my mother replied.

The three ladies kept chatting till my elder sister also came around with my nephews. She joined in and I noticed, Adom, my 4-year old nephew had a crush on Shika. He kept bringing her toys from his bag and sharing his snacks with her. The conversation switched to fashion and trends which was my cue to leave the ladies to chat for a while. My sister, Jasmine invited the ladies to Adom’s 5^th birthday party happening in two weeks at the house.

All too soon, the visit came to an end with Imelda leaving first. As soon as Imelda drove off, Shika’s mood changed.

“Tell Jasmine I will not be able to make it to the party” she stated.

“What is happening that day?” I asked

“Imelda will be present” she said.

“Oh, come on! It’s you I want there” I said as I held her hand.

“Really! That is news. Jay, I know who I am and the last thing I want to do is fight for a man’s attention” she said.

“I don’t understand what is going on, I am all yours” I pleaded.

“Are you saying you don’t understand what just happened?” she asked.

“Because of Imelda? She is just like a sister, nothing else” I said.

“Does she know this? Look here, Jay, I am too old to coach a grown man on boundaries. Have a lovely evening” she said, entered her car and drove off.

I stood there confused.

Later in the evening

I lay on my bed calling Shika, she ignored and sent a message asking to be left alone. Not long, my sister and mother entered my room.

“Shika is angry at you, right?” my mother asked.

“How did you know this?” I asked.

“Jordy, it looked like you brought two women to audition for your mother” Jasmine blurted, it felt like a light bulb had been switched on.

“OH NO!” I exclaimed, frustrated.

“I mean, you told me I will be meeting your girlfriend today and then there are two women” my mother added.

“Imelda just came to apologise, and we ended up watching TV. I see her like a sister” I said.

“Well, then you need to clarify that” Jasmine said.

“It would have been rude to sack her. Plus, Shika wants our relationship to be low-key” I said.

“No, it is not rude. You could have politely asked her to leave or excuse Shika, mummy and you. Doesn’t Imelda know you love Shika? That is how you draw boundaries. Pray that Shika doesn’t break up with you” Jasmine added.

“I just won her over…she said she will not make it to the party” I said.

“Well, you have to drag her because Adom will definitely ask of her. Wait, doesn’t she run this party service? where she sets up a beading station at parties for the kids to choose and make their own jewellery?” Jasmine asked.

“Yes! I guess I will have no choice than to hire her for it” I said.

“That is if she will not send one of her workers” my mother added

I slapped my forehead in frustration.

“You have to fix this, I like Shika. I can’t be the only baddie in this family. What about you, mummy?” my sister asked.

“I really do not mind. As long as Jordan is happy” my mother said.

We moved from my room to the hall to watch a movie, only to meet my father comfortably eating the grapes Shika brought. Jasmine then took it upon herself to exaggerate the events of the afternoon, making my dad laugh. At the end, he said he will choose Shika because she brought fruits…I just shook my head.

“So you too, why did you invite Imelda to the birthday party?” I attacked Jasmine.

“You had left us by then. Adom caused it, he invited Shika and it was kind of awkward not to include Imelda” Jasmine answered.

Now, I have to make it up to Shika.

REVEREND DAVE

Zoe has been hiding money from me, I know it, I feel it. I thought to myself as I sat in my office. She usually complains whenever I finish the money in our joint account. Of late, she barely utters a word. Moreover, when it was time to buy a car for Davida. She just bought it, no complaints.

What sealed my suspicion was the message I saw on her phone from Shika, notifying her that a payment has been made. Later that evening, I asked her if she made any side cash from consulting with Purple Linen and she denied it. I did not want to confront her, that will hurt her feelings. She will know I have been snooping through her devices. In addition, whenever Yaw is in town, she saves money. All because he is insistent on buying the team breakfast and lunch.

I rammed her car, yes, I did. I have been asking her to replace it but she refuses. I also wanted her to buy a new car from my friend, Hackman so I get a cut. Now, she is getting it repaired. We will see if she will buy a new one or not. I should have damaged it from the front! Leaving a block on the accelerator, why didn’t I think of this quickly? Ah well, I am not a bad person so bad ideas will not occur naturally to me. If she buys a new car, then Zoe has been hiding money from me. If she can hide money? What else is she hiding?

The first church branch is almost ready, just a few finishing touches left so we post a pastor there. Isaac and I have decided that the church headquarters sponsors majority of the building projects. We noticed a trend with other churches, when other pastors are mandated to build the other branches from scratch. They begin to think it is their personal property and take it back when they are uncomfortable with certain policies. Bishop Odame is currently in two legal battles because of this. We are doing this the orthodox way; the headquarters builds a branch. Put a pastor there to help complete some other things, after four or five years you are moved to another church.

People are suggesting I move Rev Isaac so he runs the new branch on his own. I need him with me, he is the reason the headquarters is running smoothly. I will send Pastor Titus instead, he is not so bad. Pastor Jordan too will be such a great fit but he is not married. I can see he is close with Imelda, they will make the perfect couple to start a new branch.

I will discuss this further with Rev Isaac. Immediately, there was a knock on my door and it was him.

“Talk of the sun and it shines. You just came to mind” I said as soon as he entered.

“We thank God”

“Ermmm, do you know if your spiritual daughter, Imelda is single?” I asked.

“Yes, per my knowledge she is” he answered.

“Okay, what do you think about she and Pastor Jordan?” I asked.

“From the outside, it looks like the perfect union but marriage is between two people. In my experience as a pastor, let people choose their own partners. We are here for their salvation” he advised.

“I know that, but can’t we nudge them a bit? What about Pastor Jordan? will she be interested in him?” I asked keenly.

“Emm… Reverend, I think when it comes to matters of the heart. Imelda opens up to Mama Zoe so talk to her. But from the grapevine, Shika is more on Jordan’s radar” he said.

“Interesting, Zoe will not tell me anything. She takes her pastor-sheep confidentiality serious. Especially after the Kwesi-Adzo fiasco” I remarked.

Adzo, a former member once confided in Zoe about relationship issues with Kwesi, her boyfriend, also a member. I felt advising Kwesi will help the situation, instead he got furious that Adzo has been airing their dirty linen in public and broke up with her. There have been other not so serious instances. Since then, for the sake of the church, she never tells me anything concerning the secrets they share with her. According to her, not every concern requires action. Sometimes people just need prayer and a listening ear which is true.

So, Shika and Jordan? On the positive side, I get to keep my best singer and pastor in the same church. But on other hand, I wanted to introduce Shika to Yaw Djimah, a way of keeping him in the church. Looking at Yaw, Imelda is definitely not his type but there is n harm in trying. Or I have to find another way to keep Yaw coming. Zoe is not convinced Yaw will join our church, but nothing is impossible with God.

SHIKA

Jordan kept apologising for his behaviour, I am sure his sister pointed out exactly what was wrong. He later hired the jewellery party service, I would have sent one of my workers but I actually enjoy working the children’s parties. Adults are more annoying and difficult to work with. Children know what they want and their instructions are clear. The smile on a little child’s face when they are happy with their jewellery gives me so much joy, be it made of beads or stainless steel. That is how I became close with Davida, I did it for her sweet 16, it was a small event with about ten of her closest friends. It is also an opportunity to grow my future clientele.

I decided to give Jay one last chance, but if I am ever put in an uncomfortable situation. I am done…

Adom’s 5^th birthday party

Jay already told me Imelda will be there. Jasmine had hired party planners hence everything was going smooth. This time, Jay made it clear. He placed his seat at my jewellery booth and assisted throughout. Adom as usual kept bringing me snacks and trying to share his toys from time to time.

The little girls at the party were so excited about their bracelets and kept showing off to their parents. Most of the women in attendance also got jewellery made and some fathers as well to match with their children. Imelda tried getting the attention of Jay countless times but he kept directing her to one of his cousins for assistance. I was surprised she stayed till the very end.  Jay was packing my stuff into his car, he was my chauffeur for the day. I have sold my Mercedes Benz, I wanted something different and fresh. My first car was a Mercedes gifted to me by Dikan and since then I drove only that car brand. I need a new start with a new brand, something that suits my personality hence I opted for the 2025 Toyota Highlander. Jay has made me a fan of Toyota.

“Jordan, where are you going?” Imelda asked Jay opened the car door for me.

“I am dropping Shika home” he said, walking to the driver’s side.

“Okay, then I will wait” she said.

“I will not advise that, I don’t know what time I will be back” he said.

“Oh… well, I have some things to discuss with you” she added.

“Well, either you say it in front of Shika or you wait till tomorrow” he said.

“Okay…then see you tomorrow” she said, with a sad face, visibly trying to garner sympathy.

“Should I call someone for you? maybe Mama Zoe or Pastor Isaac?” Jordan asked, feeling pity for her.

“No, it is alright. Let’s talk tomorrow” she said.

“Sure, let us run before Adom wakes up from his nap and hijack my woman” Jordan joked as we drove off.

“Thank you for today” I said when we settled in the couch after packing the items in the store and bringing me home.

“No, thank you. Thanks for coming and giving me another chance. I will never ever make you feel like you are competing with someone else. It is you, and you alone” he assured me as he kissed my hand.

“Our first fight…” I stated.

“Yeah, but next time, please let me know what I did. Imagine Jasmine didn’t explain it…” he said.

“I will try…” I added.

We prayed before he left. I was about to sleep when a message came from Imelda. I have been working on a timetable where all the singers interested in doing a solo get the chance to lead a song, with training from me if required. She texted me about doing a solo next week. I just shrugged and adjusted it, since that slot was empty.

 The next day Jordan passed by the store after work as usual.

“Hey, I will be preaching next weekend, can you do this song? You haven’t sung with me in a long time” he asked.

“Did you say next weekend?” I asked.

“Yes” he replied and I started laughing “What’s funny?” he asked.

“Yesterday, Imelda asked to do a solo that weekend” I replied.

“I am calling her to switch with you” he said.

“No, honestly don’t. I just want to see how this will play out” I said

“No, I don’t. Do you know the theme?” he asked.

“She is supposed to send me the preaching schedule but she hasn’t” I said.

“That’s why the pastor is your boyfriend, just ask me. The theme for that day is love, but this is about the fruit of the spirit. Last week, Reverend Dave preached on joy, next week is me, love and then it goes on. Let me just send you the timetable then you coordinate the singing” he said as he took his phone out.

“Thank you” I said

“Let me just call Imelda now” he insisted.

“I said no, it will be this whole thing. Let me see how it plays out” I pleaded.

“I don’t like this Shika, I am tired of being low-key. I want to love you publicly’’ he exclaimed.

“Just give it time. I have a strong feeling not to interrupt Imelda’s ministration” I said.

Sunday Service

I still don’t know what solo Imelda will be singing today. She claims she will not need back-up. She is being so secretive about it and I don’t want to pull rank on her yet. As the choir director, I have every right to know. I feel I should just let this play out and observe Jay as well. How he handles this situation will tell me what I need to know. The last thing I will ever do is to fight another woman over a man.

Imelda was scheduled to sing after Jay’s preaching. He looked so uncomfortable when she took the microphone, standing at his side on stage.  She spoke is the sultriest tone I have ever heard, people will call it the Holy Spirit but I know what she is doing.

“Thank you, Lord Jesus. Let us appreciate our man of God. Our dearest Pastor Jordan preached about showing love in everything you do. To your friends, family, coworkers, love should be your mandate. The song for today is about love and what God’s love is. I want you to look at your neighbour as we sing this song” she said before she started

“You are the love of my life” she sang and I noticed Jordan intentionally closed his eyes like he was in the spirit.

“You are the hope that I cling to” she kept going as he knelt behind the pulpit, avoiding direct eye contact with her.

“You mean more than this world to me” she sang looking at him

“I wouldn’t trade You for silver or gold” she kept singing in his direction

‘I wouldn’t trade You for riches untold‘ she sang and he then opened his eyes, got up and started speaking in tongues as he descended the stage.

“You are, you are my everything.

I wouldn’t take one step without you. I could never go on

I couldn’t breathe on, breath without you” she sang watching him walk straight to me. OMG! What happened to low key?

“I don’t have the strength to make it on my own” she continued singing as he held my hand and stood by me. There were audible murmurs from the choir members around me. I closed my eyes to pray and avoid eye contact with Tetteh who was on stage with the organ, directly facing me or else I will burst into laughter.

Imelda kept her poker face and finished the song before Jay walked back up on stage, and ended with a prayer. Reverend Dave decided to give the announcements and concluded with

“We all noticed something during our Sister Imelda’s ministration. We thank her for choosing that song. I love what I saw, I know we all love it too. All I can say is, this is the doing of the Lord and it is marvellous in our eyes. Let the church say Amen…” and everybody roared in thanks.

After service, I quickly left to avoid any conversations. For some reason, I am not angry with Jay. Maybe it is time to let people know…

Later in the day…

I was busy vacuuming my carpet when I got a text from Jay

JAY

You left me alone to deal with the questions? I thought we were in this together😭😭

SHIKA

That is on you for the stunt you pulled🤪

JAY

I know you were not ready for that…but I just couldn’t help it…The Holy Spirit told me it was time.

SHIKA

It’s alright, it did feel right. Just check on Imelda yeah. I am sure that song was for you🙄.

JAY

Really!

SHIKA

Yes, you say she is your sister. I think you need her to understand that.

JAY

Sure, I will. Has Mama Zoe called you?👀

SHIKA

No, I have a meeting with her on Wednesday. She will definitely bring it up.😅

JAY

Reverend Dave and Pastor Isaac had a meeting with me. Talking about boundaries and making sure I handle everything. More like a subtle threat, I thought I was the church darling boy but nope😪. Every pastor loves their favourite singer😍.

SHIKA

😂😂😂😂 interesting! I will let them know that nothing can separate me from the love of Radiant Voices .

JAY

Did you know Imelda will sing that particular song?

SHIKA

Nope, she kept it to herself and was insistent that it is a surprise.

JAY

Aren’t you the choir director?🤔

SHIKA

I am, but I will pull rank when the time comes. I was just respecting her wishes as former choir director. If anything, when most of the singers quit, she kept Radiant Voices alive. Her dedication should not be swept under the rug because of one infraction.

JAY

I understand.

Jay and I kept texting till a call from Imelda interrupted us, I picked it up.

“Well, madam, won’t you thank me for my ministration?” she asked immediately after pleasantries.

“You sang to God not me” I said.

“It was my ministration that opened Jordan’s heart to show his love during service” she claimed.

“I hear, thank you Imelda” I said to pacify her.

“Another thing, Jordan is very important to the church and me. Please take of him, if anything happens to him, you will not have it easy. Don’t break his heart. He is precious” she warned, I was in shock.

“Oh okay, what about me? Have you also warned him? I am also precious” I remarked.

“I am sure Mama Zoe will do that, everyone is looking out for their person. Anyway, have a goodnight” she said and we ended the call

What is all this? I did not disclose the conversation with Jay. I just kept texting him.

Next morning

I was awakened by several messages and calls from my friend, Melody. There was a viral blog post from KuukuTheBlogger.

“Repentance or Rebrand? Dikan’s former sugar baby, Goldie finds Christ”

and there was a video attached of me singing in church with a viral photo of me in a bikini from my past life.

There were various tweets, instagram and tiktok posts, some doubting whether my salvation is true, others happy for me and welcoming me into christianity. Most impressed with my voice, and few of my videos singing at events with the jazz band popped up. There were some weirdos, making lewd comments and trying to get Grok or AI to undress me.

I was just relieved that Jay’s photos were not plastered over the internet as well or any information about our relationship. It was just about me singing at Radiant Life. Oh Shoot! His family will see the posts.

Are they aware of my past? Is it a dealbreaker? How does Jay feel about all this?

I do not mind being called a christian but the bikini picture being added to the posts was unsettling. I have deleted all these pictures from my account years ago and even deactivated it. Melody kept calling and trying to get me to engage in her PR expertise. The picture kept haunting me… The internet indeed never forgets…

Author’s note

One more episode to the season finale. We then go on a two week break and resume on 20th June!!!! Do not forget to comment, like and subscribe.

Also, please and please follow selimsaidso on instagram. Snippets of what to expect in the next episodes are shared there

Lexicon

1. Oware – traditional strategy board game from West Africa.Played on a wooden board with pits and small seeds or stones.

2. La Bise- French social greeting involving cheek kisses. Common greeting between friends, family, or acquaintances.