AN EXCITING ENCOUNTER WITH FLYING MONSTERS

So last Saturday, I went to an outdoor function with the Legionaries(Legion of Mary). It had started on a good note. Well, after the initial hassles with the driver popularly called ‘ticket’ by my hostel mates(the man is in love with asking for bus tickets before entering the bus), we finally got into the bus and ventured on a journey to the unknown(well, I would say that because we had never been to Owerre-Ezukala until last Saturday). We were excited. We sang praises and finally prayed the rosary. The guys behind me had so much energy that they talked throughout the journey. Not only did they talk, they sang songs ranging from high school musicals to some other songs I didn’t know the origin. I just busied myself with reading stories on wattpad, tweeting and pinging from my phone and then listening to music. We passed towns like Nibo, Ufuma, Isulo, Awgbu and the popular rich and beautiful town of Ndikelionwu from Chukwuemeka Ike’s The bottled Leopard. After driving for two hours, we finally got to the town of Owerre-Ezukala. Getting to the town, we began a second journey. We drove into the village for about thirty minutes before we got to a dusty inaccessible road. We had to get down from the bus, carrying our food, drinks and other items; we trekked for a total of fourty-five minutes before we got to the entrance of the cave. Some people dropped their things and began to take pictures at the entrance of the cave. As for me, the curiosity to find out what the inside looked like made me not the bother with the pictures plus the fact that my phone didn’t have a good camera quality.

 

The cave was underground, so we had to go through sloppy, uneven and rugged steps that numbered above one hundred to get to the main cave/waterfall. It was very scary. Missing a step would have been fatal because the edge of each step meant falling into a ditch. I finally got there. It was wonderful. Seeing water cleaner than the bore hole water we buy falling from the top of the cave, the river and then walking farther was a sandy area big enough to accommodate  more than three hundred persons(fact). To my greatest surprise, the DJ was already there spicing the whole place up with cool music blasting from the speakers. I moved my body to the rhythm of the music while moving to explore the whole place. I entered the main cave 1. It was creepily very dark. I took some pictures with my friend and with the help of my torch, I moved further but at a point, I couldn’t take it anymore, so I turned back and left the cave. Out there, I saw a lot of my classmates, we chatted, took pictures before I left again to another place at the back of cave 1. I will call the place cave 2. Not many people had the courage to go there. I dragged my friend Cympero with me. It was farther than cave 1 and we had to climb up to get there. Cave 2 was more beautiful than cave 1. It was underground and had many entrances. God is so wonderful. We were there for thirty minutes, climbing, taking pictures, chatting about the amazing beauty of nature, watching people exhibit the trait of jungle genes in them.

All of a sudden, we heard screams, thinking that those over there in cave 1 were having fun because the pageantry for Mr and Miss Legion was about to begin before we left to cave 2 , we ran. On getting there, there were monsters in the form of bees. Obviously, someone must have disturbed them in their habitat. People were screaming, fighting off the bees on their bodies and what we failed to realize at that time was that we only needed to be calm and the bees wouldn’t be able to sting. Chasing them away will only make them come back and the worse was killing them, the smell of that would only attract more bees. Also, the fear of seeing the bees was more than the fear of having the bees sting us. Unfortunately for us, those in cave 1 were now running to where we were bringing the bees with them. I got stung by one while running. The pain was severe. I learnt my lesson. I became calm after that and was not visited again by the flying monsters. An hour later, the screams reduced. We didn’t know that evacuation had started in cave 1. We started reciting the rosary calling our mother Mary for help. Fifteen minutes later, some people who managed to get out of the cave came to us and told us there was a way out of the cave. We climbed atop dangerous stones and rocks and finally got to the top of the cave and walked another fifteen minutes into the forest to finally leave the forest.

Stories that came later were that due to the stampede, some people eventually fell into the ditch, many sustained injuries and some had their faces swollen from the stinger, arms, legs, neck and other parts of the body. Not only lives were saved, our food and drinks were also ‘evacuated’  by some good and courageous Nigerians who covered themselves in black and made trips over and over again back into the cave. Luckily, we all made it back to the hostel alive by the grace of God. We carried our food back with us and by the time we were able to eat it, it was already going sour but what could we do, man must wack now, we still ate the food to our satisfaction.

 

 Important lesson I learnt was ‘do not go to where you were not invited.’ Also, young people are very unpredictable; possibly, someone out of curiosity had gone to the bee hive and started throwing stones there. When I went back to my room, I thought, ‘What if something worse than bees had come out, maybe python or lion because from what we heard from the villagers, there was so many dangerous animals who had their home in Owerre-Ezukala cave? What if …?’ I repeat, God is so so so wonderful and I can’t stop being grateful to him. Also, our Blessed Virgin Mary to whom we had called for help did not relent in coming to our rescue. This event wouldn’t stop me from going for more functions like this. I have a story to tell and I won’t stop telling this story. It was an experience. Advice to young people like me: do not spend your youth without having stories to tell when you get old. Join in trips, excursions and picnics. Life is too short.

 

 

 

LOVE AND DIAMONDS (EPISODE NINE)

KAINENE

I sat down at the sofa looking at Chris jittery tapping my feet. “I am listening.”

He cleared his throat. “Father knew I was going to leave. He did it because he knew he wasn’t going to survive the illness. He arranged with his friend Nwajiuba. Can you remember that man that drove a white beetle car then who used to bring us nice things whenever he visited father?”

I nodded faintly remembering the tall huge man with a funny accent then.

 “He had agreed to take me to the United States so I could learn the ways of the white men. He had gotten a visa and had made the preparations months before father died but because school was still in session; he postponed it till the holidays. That was the year I finished junior class.”

I nodded again recalling those moments.

 

 “He had hid from mum because he knew mum would vehemently object to it because of what happened to her sister, Aunt Regina in the white man’s land. In my first year at college, Nwajiuba had problem with the immigration authorities and he was kept in their custody. Not too long after that the immigration also went looking for me because Nwajiuba had initially gotten a visiting visa for me but he had used his connections to extend my stay till college. I went into hiding for six months until my best friend Blakely convinced his parents to adopt me legally as their child. I tried contacting his family but I couldn’t because only Nwajiuba had their contact. I don’t know if he is still detained by the immigration or has been deported. I graduated with a first class in Information Technology. I got a job immediately in one if the blue-chip companies and was only given a chance to come back two months ago. I went to our neighbourhood in Lagos and that was where I found Barbra who told me what happened. I was devastated Adanne. I couldn’t imagine the pain you went through during mother’s death because it struck me like a powerful arrow laden with poison when I heard mother was no more. I made up my mind to come see you and ask for forgiveness.” He finally concluded this time, sincerity in words evident in his eyes. I was dumbfounded. I attempted opening my mouth but I couldn’t. It was as if bile had found its way into my throat.

“I know that you are still trying to comprehend what I just said but it is the truth. You are my only sister and I pray you to take me back as your family.”

“I am very sorry Chris. I didn’t know that you went through all this and here was I thinking that you had gone frolicking on your own.” I said moving close to where he was seated hugging him, tears streaming down my face.

 

“It’s okay Adanne. I would have done the same if it were me. I am glad to have my sister back.” He pulled away wiping the tears off my face. The doors suddenly burst open and Preye was at the door.

“Whoa, what is happening here? Reconciliation?” She asked. Chris who was backing the door turned.

 

“Preye!”

“Christopher!”

They both shouted at the same time. Amina, Ray and Barbra came into the sitting room.

“Do you guys know each other?”

‘Ahh! Yes we do.” Preye answered, joy clearly written on her face.

“I can’t believe I found you here. It’s been like five years since we saw each other.”

“You are right Chris”

“You have grown so beautiful. I’m looking for that gawky girl who always tampered with my system when I went on breaks in spite of all my warnings but I can’t seem to find her.”

“Don’t wash my dirty linen in public. Don’t forget I was also very indispensable to you.”

“Ah! The coffee girl, how could I forget that? I really missed you and your coffee Preye.” Chris said and came closer for a hug.

“Now you remember.”                                       

“What are you doing here?”                      

“I live here.

Amina cleared her throat. “Do you guys mind sharing the gist while we are all seated?”

Everyone sat down on the sofas.

“How do you guys know each other?”

“I was working under Chris during my IT in his company and then we lost contact after I came back to Nigeria. Don’t tell me Kaine is your sister.”

“Yes she is.”

“Wow, this is just great. If I had known you were her brother, I wouldn’t have allowed her to do all that shakara. It’s wonderful that you guys have reconciled.”

Everyone agreed with Preye. I got up and went to the kitchen. By the time I returned with drinks, the whole room was bursting in argument. The topic was the recent anti-smoking law in Lagos State. I argued in support of the law that it was a welcome development especially the provision concerning kids. It was not wise to send a kid to buy cigarettes and not only stopping there but also smoking in front of the kid just like Uncle Sunday did when I was a kid. I mean what are you teaching that child? Lung cancer? Maybe I spoke from my experience in medical school; seeing patients die of lung cancer as a result of chronic addiction to smoking. The guys were on the opposing side. They argued that supposing they went out with their friends to watch a football match and were asked to move to the non-smoking area, it would not be fun Ray had argued, “The more, the merrier.”

I elbowed him aggressively. “You are supposed to agree with me as your girlfriend.” He laughed and put his arms around me. I snuggled closer to him.

Some minutes later, Amina invited everyone to a late lunch of Egusi soup and semolina. We went back to the sitting room and settled for a game of scrabble. Twenty minutes into that, I got bored and dragged Ray to my room.

“What happened to your shirt?” I asked sitting on the bed, my knees propped up to my shin.

“An accident on the next street.”

“How is my sweetheart?”

“He is fine. He talks about Tammy these days and nothing else. I overheard him tell Lauretta to dress him up quickly because he wanted to see Tammy arrive at school. Lauretta was dumbfounded. You needed the see the expression on her face. Why would my boy be thinking of girls at only five years?”

“Maybe he is taking after his father.” I replied.

“Haba, Nene.” He chuckled. I was not that bad as a kid. I didn’t even like girls when I was his age. I just hope he doesn’t start getting his heart broken this early.”

“You worry too much Raymond. He is just a kid.”

“Yes he is but he is growing up too fast.”

“Seems the Mogajis granted the press an interview.” He said changing the topic.

“Yes.” I replied a myriad of thoughts crossing my mind.

“Was that why you switched off your phone knowing I was going to call you?”

“Not really.”

“Why?” His voice was rising. “You knew I was going to be so worried.”

“I didn’t want to disturb you. It was already late.” I said looking everywhere but at him.

“Have I ever complained?”

“No but then I can take care of myself Raymond. I have been doing that before you came into my life.”

“That’s not a reason Nene. Trust me I know what the press can do. They will monitor your movements, never giving you a breathing space and then spread lies about you. When this happens, will you still have on your ‘I can take care of myself’ attitude?”

“Fine.” I said not wanting an argument to erupt. “I will always tell you but then allow me to sort out some issues myself.”

Ray stood up from his chair and positioned himself beside me on the bed. He took my hands in his and stared into my eyes intently.

“When I told you we were in this relationship together, I also meant I would support you in everything even to my last breath. I want us to climb this obstacle together and triumph together. I have already contacted some people and they will be speaking to us shortly. Perhaps, you should tell Chris about this also.” I nodded.

****************************************************************

 I met with Chris at Salamander Cafe on Monday where we discussed everything from the past back to the present. He decided to stay in Abuja for the rest of his stay in Nigeria. He rented an apartment at Maitama. The next day, I had a meeting with Brad, the private investigator in Ray’s office. He was really huge, an ex military man. I was greatly intimated by his physical attributes. Ray sensing my insecurities casually draped an arm around me assuring me that he meant no harm. Eventually, I warmed up to Brad as we got talking. He was a really nice man with adept knowledge in investigation and criminal issues having worked in the military for at least twenty years.

 

Naeto was looking out for his father in a sea of children outside when I got to his school to pick him up. I waved at him and immediately, he ran towards me flying into my arms.

“Where have you been Nene?”                                           

“I have been around sweetheart.”

“But you did not come to see me.” He accused softly. “I am sorry sweetheart. I will make it up to you hmm?” I said tickling him, gurgles of laughter escaped from him.

“Where is my daddy?”

“He will be working late tonight.” I took his backpack as we strolled to the car. “So tell me, how is Tammy, I didn’t see her.”

His countenance changed. He stalled answering the question till we got to the car and drove out of the school compound.

“You didn’t answer my question sweet heart.”

“She is so disgusting.” He shouted

“That is a mean word to say Naetochukwu. Where did you learn that from?” I chided him.

“I am sorry. I will not say that again.”

“You better not” I said. “So what did she do to you?”

“She refused to let me read her story book and then she refused to play with me today”

 “You know sweetheart, we can’t always get what we wish for, okay.” He nodded.  “So where do you want us to go to?”

“Let’s go to Drumstix.”

 

 

On a Friday a week later, the Mogajis came unannounced to the hospital. They came prepared with two prominent lawyers and men from the Nigerian Police force. They instructed the police officers to arrest and detain me but Barrister Bassey rose to my defense. There was no evidence that would warrant my arrest and detention. This began a legal battle between the learned gentlemen. Unable to bear the heat in the kitchen, they left angrily with a promise that our next meeting would be in a court of law.

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INEVITABLE JOURNEY

This is by no means to spoil the joy and love associated with this season. So enjoy this great piece from a friend of mine.



****

As I watched my image in the mirror, I understood the seriousness of my situation. My friends and family all made it seem like I was normal, but I only realized my predicament as I looked at myself or what I thought was me.

“Nkem” she shouted. “What on earth are you doing here all alone? C’mon.” She said pulling me away from my dressing mirror.

“No” I protested. “Just look at me, I am gradually fading away”.

 Unsuccessfully, Chibu tried to hide the pain behind her eyes. I saw that she was struggling so hard to fight back the tears. She turned away sharply, but only too late. Her tears betrayed her.

 I turned back to my dressing mirror, stroking my hair, some amount of hair came off as I stroked. 

Reality struck me. I was going to die! I was going to leave my family and my best friend behind. I burst into a fresh round of tears, my fierce sobs violently shaking my already frail body.

Chibu rushed to my side as she had always done whenever I needed her. She was the sister I never had. We had known each other for twelve years; though it seemed like we had known each other all our lives. People never understood our friendship for we were different in every way possible. We had different physical attributes: standing at 5ft 11inches, I outsized her petite 5ft 4 inches frame. We also had different complexions; her milky skin looked almost white compared to my ebony skin. In fact, the only thing we had in common was the street where we lived, Taiwo Ade Street. My family moved in three months before hers and from the moment we saw each other, we became inseparable.

As I wept my heart out, she wept with me, hugging me close. “Why? Why?” I kept asking. “I am only sixteen. I don’t want to die.”

“Don’t talk like that Nkem, you are not going to die.”

“But I will.” I screamed. “I am suffering from a terminal disease! Oh God! I don’t want to die.”

It seemed like hours we were together, tightly clasped in each other’s arms, not wanting to let go.

All of a sudden, my head began to spin, I felt myself gradually losing consciousness.

“Chibu” I whispered barely able to talk. “Call mummy.”

With alarm written all over her face, she ran towards the stairs, screaming along the way. It was almost midnight when I regained consciousness. My surroundings seemed unfamiliar. The bed was hard and uncomfortable; my throbbing head didn’t help matters either. It took me about two minutes to realize that I was on a hospital bed. Chibu was by my right holding my hand. She was asleep. My mother was also asleep on the couch adjacent to my bed. I felt so sorry for my poor mother. Since my diagnosis nine months ago, she had become a shadow of herself. She had lost her usual charm and cheer.

I was tired of putting everyone through pain. I guessed it was time to give up. I had suffered so much, going through endless series of tests, surgeries and medication. My parents had spent so much on my treatments, though this was nothing compared to the emotional trauma they were passing through. It was hopeless. I was suffering from a malignant brain tumour. My death was inevitable. All hope was lost when two weeks earlier, I stopped responding to treatment. My condition had deteriorated dramatically since the past week

“Chibu.” I called. She woke up in a start.

“Nkem” She gasped. “Are you okay?”

“I will be soon.” I replied.

“What do you mean?” She asked, sitting up. “Are you feeling better?” Relief showing slightly on her face.

“No, but I will be soon.”

“What exactly are you talking about?”

“I am going to die Chibu.”

“No you are not! Don’t talk like that.”

I sensed the fear in her voice and held her hand tighter.

“Promise me ...”I lost my breath.

“Nkem” she screamed. “Don’t leave me" she begged.

“I have to go, I am in such pain. But promise me you’ll never forget me.”

Hot tears of sorrow flowed down her eyes as she stared wide-eyed at me.

“I can never forget you. You are my best friend.”

I smiled and said, “Tell my mummy that I love her. Tell her I will miss her badly.” I held back the tears threatening to escape. With a weakened breath I barely managed to continue, “Tell her not to feel so bad. My sufferings and hers will be over.”

“No” she protested hugging me tightly as though that would prevent the eager hands of death from taking me away. “You can’t leave me, what will I do without you? Don’t go!” She screamed.

It was too late. I had taken my last breath.

Written by Chidimma(Chiddles).

MY KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMANI

         

     It was Valentine. Everybody was carried away in the spirit of valentine. Girls had accessories, the colour of red pinned on their hair, shirts, skirts and even some started # red shoes. As for the guys, normal blue jeans gradually gave way for red skinny jeans. The lecturers were not left out. The bars, clubs, restaurants, supermarkets and hotel all had valentine displays in and around their premises. Businesses were offering discounts; some people were winning free tickets to a romantic get away with their lovers. Churches and campus fellowships were all in preparation for the big day. Some girls had even changed their names to Valerie, even some claimed to be born on Valentine. Coincidentally, my birthday fell on February 14. What were my parents thinking?  

My first year roommate already had a date for the d-day. Tola in second year had been on a steady relationship with her boyfriend for the past eleven months. My final year roommate Hope was the churchy type, the typical long gown and loose shirt wearing ‘sister’. A part of the sect that believed that any form of ornament was a sin including wedding rings. I had once asked her why she wears gold wristwatches in spite of her belief. Were they not also regarded as ‘ornaments’? She had called me an inquisitive monkey and avoided answering. There was little or no hope for her even though one of her ‘brothers’ had been trying so hard to befriend her in the ‘worldly’ way.

As for me, I was clueless on what to expect that day from my ‘admirers’. I thought about Larry but he was such a broke guy. The last time he visited me without prior notice; I had to give him transport fare back to his lodge. I didn’t think Kenneth; my best friend would possibly have time for me. He must have made plans to spend the day with his new girlfriend Onyinyechi.

Every girl must have at a time in her life had a secret wish. Mine was a Knight in shining Armani who would sweep me off my feet and treat me as a queen. I thought about ‘him’ once again. He was dressed in a magnificent Shining Armani Suit, a golden crown on his head and a sceptre in his hands. He stood out among all the other men in a large feast where a banquet was about to be held. Tall, handsome, fine well sculptured face the effect of which every other lady in the hall was ogling him. He was advancing close towards me with determination as if I was cherished prize he had to take away and tuck safely out of danger. He was not aware of the flirtatious glances from the ladies. His eyes were set on me. Just as he was about to hold out his arms for me to link them with his, I felt a hard tap on my shoulder bringing me eight thousand miles back to reality. I hissed and turned to the culprit.

“Eeh babe, what now?” I asked Tola frowning while rubbing the area where she had just hit me.

“You are just weird Dunmo, how can you be smiling to only what you can see or has the anointing fallen upon you?”

“Anointing ke? Nothing jare.” I replied. I stood up from my reading table with the novel I had been reading earlier and laid down on my bed. “Will you be going out with Skuki on Val?”

“Yes, of course” She answered. Her face lit up in a smile.

"Great. I can now book sharwama earlier. Better don’t come back without it.”

“Yes madam.” She replied.

I saw ‘him’ the next day in school. He was looking every bit like the young millionaire he was. My heart flipped immediately our eyes met for a nanosecond before I shyly looked away. An imaginary force kept pushing me close to him and under that impulse; I took five steps towards him before I regained consciousness and turned rather to the direction of my lecture hall.

  Valentine afternoon, I had a surprise package waiting for me on my bed. The package was wrapped in pink and white. Inside it was a sleeveless full length gown with a slit reaching above the knees. The dress was a design from Shamaeel Ansari. The price tag made me gasp. Also included in the package was a pair of black six inches stilettos and accessories to go with the gown. There was a note attached to it. It read ‘Wear this for me tonight. I will pick you up by seven-thirty pm. Love xxxx.’

I had private misgivings about accepting such gifts especially one from an unknown potential valentine date. I repackaged the items and dropped it in my wardrobe. Two hours later, I was alone in the room. The items were still lying where I had dumped them earlier. The orange wall clock above Hope’s bed said 7:03 pm. the curiosity to find out who the unknown was took over my being at that moment. I yanked my wardrobe open. In less than fifteen minutes, I was done. I applied light make-up on my face and wore the stilettos. I looked at the full length mirror at the door to the bathroom, I looked completely transformed. The gown fitted me sprucely giving me a ‘diva’ look and the accessories uplifted my appearance.

There was a knock on the door. It opened to reveal two men. Before I could say ‘Jack Robinson’, I was blindfolded and taken to a car. I was scared but the feeling of posh leather seats beneath my hand conveyed to me that my abductors were not after my life. No word was uttered till the car came to a halt twenty minutes later. The door to my side opened. I was gently helped out of the car and guided into a building. When the blindfold was finally removed, I found myself standing in front of a large golden door. I opened the door to hear  a beautiful rendition of ‘Happy Birthday to you’ by a popular musician that made me weak at the knees, the clapping by the guests at the end of it. The hall was filled with different classes of people; a gigantic cake was placed at the middle of the hall. To my surprise, Tola and Ifunanya were there with their dates. They waved at me while giggling loudly. I made a mental note to kill them once this was over. Osaruyi met me halfway into the hall, linking my arms with his and together we walked gracefully to where my seat was.

“You look elegant.”

“Thank you.” I replied rather curtly. After a brief introduction, the cake was cut. I had a couple, of dance with Osas after that. We later switched. I danced with my roommates, friends and a couple of Osas’ friends. After the dinner, Osas was nowhere to be seen. I handed my glass of wine to the waiter and went in search of him. I went towards the door leading outside when I felt strong but gentle hands pull me to a hard chiselled chest.

“Osas,” I whispered in batted breath to the gentleman who had the ability of taking my breath away whenever he is in close proximity.

“Dunmo, I know you definitely want to wriggle my intestines out of my body but let’s talk first, hmm.”

He led me out of the building to a beautiful garden just behind the banquet hall. We sat down on a bench carved out of acacia wood.

“I hope my men didn’t manhandle you.”

“No.”

His face became serious. “I have to be honest here.”

A pregnant silence passed before he continued.

“I have always had a thing for you. I knew what I felt right at that first time I saw you at admin block was not just the normal everyday love or infatuation.

“Don’t even remind me about that.” I laughed remembering my gawky little self walking with my books placed in m arms on my way to finish up my physical clearance. He was walking and talking with his friend when he had hit me with his elbow sending me flying sideways and my books scattering all over the place. I hissed and made a nasty comment when he had tried helping me up. I left him there stunned without uttering a word.

“Your attitude struck me that day Dunmo. I mean nobody had ever treated me like that before. I got to my room that day and replayed the scene over and over again in my head. I couldn’t get you out of my mind. I embarked on a missionary journey to get your attention. I know you feel as if I had browbeaten you into coming here but I knew of no other way to express my feelings. I love you Dunmo, very much” He said tucking a stranded hair back into its proper place as he held my eyes with his.

“Please say something”

“Okay, since it’s all about being honest here, let’s bring it on.”

He looked at me with a raised brow.”

“You have been my secret crush.”

Osas laughed heartily. “Like seriously?”

“Like duuh.” I replied.

“That means we have been like opposite poles of a magnet waiting for the right time to attract.”

“You could say that again.” I said. We talked late into the night learning more about each other. That night marked the beginning of a friendship that blossomed into something more than friendship itself. We became inseparable more like two peas in a bud. He was more than just a friend to me and vice versa. Osas graduated that year and I followed suit the next year. We got married four years later in a beautiful ceremony at the beautiful Island of Tahiti in the presence of our family and friends.

 Osas died nine months later in a plane crash. He died but not without planting his seed in me. Nine months later, I held my bundle of joy in my arms and named him Osaruyi after his father.

It was Valentine today and I had gone to his grave side to remind him that he gave me the best valentine ever. Osas Jnr who was now six years old placed our simple wreath at his tomb head. It read,

 “Knowing that you are in heaven watching over us makes us stronger every day. Love, Dunmo and Osas.”

I linked my hands with Osaruyi’s and walked back to the car.

LOVE AND DIAMONDS(EPISODE EIGHT)

KAINENE

"What?" I asked lifting myself from the floor where I was sprawled some minutes ago and walked towards Preye.

"Who is Stephanie?" She asked again. I ransacked my mind but the name Stephanie didn't come up.

"I don't know. I can't remember anybody with that name." I took the phone wondering how she was able to track the sender of the strange message. I opened the message, it was still the same. No addition nor subtraction. I wanted to know how she was able to track the sender.

 "How did you do it?"

"Just the normal way." She replied eating out of the long forgotten popcorn. Oh! I forgot, Preye was the computer guru in the house but still the name Stephanie didn't ring a bell. Amina took the phone from me while I went back to shut down my laptop.

 I was backing the television when Preye said, "Kaine, what’s your picture doing on the screen?"

 I turned and behold was my picture on in-set. The Mogajis were being interviewed by the press. Great! Now what? I sighed and moved closer to the screen. "Please increase the volume Preye." I said.

"It is a dark period for the Mogajis whose only son died mysteriously in one of the leading hospitals in Nigeria located in Abuja last weekend. The picture you see inserted in the corner is that of the young doctor who is suspected to have caused the death of the young heir. Sir, we are aware that you had just concluded the burial rites for your son, are you going to leave the matter or demand justice for your son?"

"Yes we are going to demand for justice. He was our only son. Who wouldn't?"

"How do you intend to achieve that sir?"

"We are going to sue the hospital and demand their license be revoked."

"What about the doctor?"

"She will be facing criminal charges."

"What if ...?" The journalist was cut off by the Mogaji's armed security men. He straightened his rumpled shirt as a result of the rough handling by the security. He continued

"As we just heard, the Mogaji's are clear on their statement. They are suing the most notable and leading hospital in northern Nigeria, St Anne's hospital and they are ready to unleash their arsenals. Let's see how this works for them as they pursue justice for their son. I am Davis Clark reporting for TVC."

To say I was perplexed would be an understatement of what I felt at that moment. I stood arms akimbo still staring at the TV already turned off by Preye. I didn't expect them to grant that interview to the press. This is going to be even more complicated than I had thought initially. Amina had that look on her face that tells me she was thinking about the right words to say but couldn't find any. Preye suggested we should just call it a day and go to bed. We went upstairs to our rooms saying nothing to each other deep in thought. One person's problem was the other's.

RAYMOND

I was sitting in my study trying to sort out some files and going over the company’s accounts for the month. I was lucky that Naeto had fallen asleep quite early if not he would have occupied me with stories of what happened in school or what Tammy did or didn’t do. Tammy was my little boy’s crush at only five years old. I read some of the mails and sent them to trash after which I logged onto the company’s website. Fifteen minutes into that, my phone buzzed on the table. It was Henshaw. I answered it. “My guy, what’s up now?”

“Fine. You dey close to your TV?”

“No.” I replied curtly wondering what my television had to do with what Henshaw wanted to say. I have never been a fan of television but I had to keep them in my home because of my kid and visitors.

“You sef, you no dey like TV, why you come put am for house? Na for decoration?”

I laughed. “I have a little kid at home now. What do you expect?”

He continued rambling in pidgin. “E be like say I just see your girlfriend picture on TV?”

“What?” I asked surprised leaving the study heading towards the main sitting room.

“Check TVC. I watch the tin like two hours ago but e be like say them dey do a re-broadcast now. If you no se am check 360nobs or Linda Ikeji, you no say she like news too much. This one your girlfriend wan enter the same trouser with  big names for this country.”

“Thanks for the info, I’ll check it now.” I said an disconnected the call. I turned on the TV and scrolled to the channel and there it was; a picture of Nene on inset and the parents of Fatai being interviewed by the journalists. She had told me about the meeting this afternoon when we spoke but I didn’t know it would escalate to this before the end of the day. Being on the news was a different ball game altogether because you would have to constantly hide from people  especially all the overzealous journalists who liked to find dirt on people even when there  was none. I had once been a victim and  that was the reason  I had  a pseudo name in my acquired businesses. I tried Nene’s number but it was switched off. I knew exactly what to do at that moment. I opened my phonebook and searched for a particular contact I hadn’t used in years. I found the number and I dialled. At the first ring, Brad’s familiar deep and husky voice said, “Hello.”

“Brad, please I need you to do a favour for me. Come to my office tomorrow and I will give you the details.”

KAINENE

I didn’t bother going to work the next day so I decided to utilise my free time to treat myself to some good things of life and  at the same time  steer my mind off the mess I had found myself in. I brought out my planner and wrote down; spa, salon, bookshop and indulging myself in a series of movie watching.  I visited the spa first then the salon which was also situated in the same building. I drove down to zone 11 to Perfect bookshop where I picked some books. As I was about leaving the bookshop, I caught a flicker of light on my face. ‘Great, so these people are now following me around.’  Thankfully, I was with my sunshade, so I wore it and walked quickly to my car and drove home. The pleasant aroma of food in the kitchen wafted to my nose as soon as I opened the door reminding me that I didn’t have breakfast. As if on cue, the little parasitic worms in my stomach began their ritual dance. I went to the kitchen to see that Amina was the architect behind the delicious food. I went upstairs and changed into some casual wear and went back to the kitchen to help her in preparing a lunch of Egusi soup and semolina. Few minutes after we were done, the doorbell rang and I opened it to reveal Barbra and behind her was Chris.

RAYMOND

I was on my way to Nene’s house the next day at the close of work. Having tried her number and it was still switched off; I decided to make a brief stop at her place. I was already at the t-junction leading to Nene’s street when suddenly there was a shrill ear piercing sound capable of impairing the organ of hearing. . Two cars had collided with each other. The first car, a black Mercedes collided with a Toyota corolla and the effect of that collision had caused the car to somersault three times up in the air eventually landing on its side. I was few cars way from the accident and the drivers of the two cars in front of me had already fled the scene. I left my car and was able to solicit the help of some bystanders who were still loitering around to either snap the accident victims or to determine the first person who will be the Good Samaritan. It was a gory sight. The major parts of the car were damaged.

The drivers were youngsters whom their parents had given the free liberty to drive cars and the worst of it all, they weren’t even putting on seatbelts. We succeeded in pulling the young man out but then he was badly injured. Pieces of glass had found its way into every visible part of this body. Blood was oozing out everywhere. His head was greatly affected. A part of the skull was visible to the eye. Miraculously, he was still breathing.  Some other persons helped to pull the second driver out who  was not injured as the first driver but then he had bruises all over his body and was having difficulty in breathing, we succeeded in keeping them awake till the paramedics arrived some minutes later. I left the scene and continued my journey but not without blood stains on my shirt.

KAINENE

“What are you doing here Chris?” I asked my estranged brother in disbelief. It had been 22 long years since I last saw him yet, I would recognize him anywhere. The dimples on his cheeks that showed anytime he laughed or was deep in thought, the permanent scar he had gotten on his forehead at the age of eight when he was testing the boiling ring mother had just used. He hadn’t changed much. We had the same pointed nose we had inherited from my mother. It seemed my mother had the dominant genes because the only thing I inherited from my father was his eyes and stubbornness.  Mother was a tall huge woman but the sufferings from father coupled with my father’s illness reduced her to a shadow of herself before her death.

“Won’t you let us in? We just came all the way from Lagos and I am so famished.” Barbra said

“Why did you bring him here?” I asked

“Let them in Kaine.” Amina who had come in from the kitchen said passing a message through her eyes.

“Can we just talk Adanne? I told you I would explain everything that  ... “

“Talk about what Christopher?” I asked, cutting him off. “I made it clear to you to just forget about me.”

“But I am the only family you have left.”

“Really?”

“Yes, unless you are married.”

“How is that your business?”

“Who is he?”

I scoffed “Am I supposed to answer that?”

“Just hear him out.” Amina said coming to stand between us.

Barbra who had been admiring the portraits used to decorate the sitting room turned and said, “Kaine, he told me some of the reasons.  Just let him explain.”

“Explain so what should happen guys? Do you even know what I went through? Are you asking me to allow him explain and then he goes ahead to ask for forgiveness? Do you think twenty two years is here?  God!”

“Stop being stubborn Adanne. It was not as if I didn’t think about you and mum.   You were the only people on my mind every single night. It was not easy for me but I had to leave at that time.”

“It’s too late for that speech.  You can see I no longer need you. I can take care of myself. You should just go. You will probably find a hotel somewhere down the road if you don’t have anywhere to spend the night. Barbra can stay if she wants to.” 

The doorbell rang as soon as I turned to go back to the kitchen dismissing Chris.

“I am not going anywhere till I have said what I have in mind.”

I turned. “Hmm, I see.”

“If you are not satisfied, I will go but please just hear me out for the sake of the blood we share.”

RAYMOND

Amina open the door when I rang the doorbell, “Hey, Ray, what’s up?”

“Fine.” She was about opening the door wide to let me in when she noticed the blood stains on my shirt.

“What happened?” She asked frowning, confusion written on her face.

“There was an accident on the next street. All these teenagers driving on the road with careless abandon, speeding as if they are on fast and furious.”

“That’s bad, any casualty?”

“No, they were lucky not to have ended up like Paul Walker. The ambulance has taken them to the hospital”

“That’s a lesson for them. I am sure they haven’t even gotten their licenses yet or their rich parents got it for them.

“Where is Nene?” I asked changing the subject.

“She is inside.”

I heard a voice clearly not Nene’s.

“She has august visitors.” Amina said answering the unspoken question. She opened the door to let me in and there were two people, a lady and a man probably around my age clad in formal attire. Nene came to me envelope me in a bear hug which caused me to stagger a bit. I hugged her back savouring the warmth of her body. I could tell she was battling with her emotions.

“Thank God you are here Ray.” She said mumbling onto my shoulder.

“I have been trying to reach you since yesterday.”

“I am sorry. I turned off my phone.”

“Okay. Who are they?”

“Barbra and Chris” She replied. A look at the man was enough. The resemblance was too much for siblings even though they were of different sexes. He begged me with his eyes to persuade Nene to talk to him.

“Talk to him Nene.”

“I don’t want to.”

“Just give him the benefit of doubt and listen to him.”

She pulled away from me.

“Are you also supporting him? You don’t even know him.”

“I don’t know him, yes but I want you to still talk to him, do it for your peace of mind okay? I hate to see you like this. Listen to him just as you do when I rant about Olivia. We will be in the dining.” I said placing my hands on her shoulders appealing to her voice of reason.

She seemed to think for a while before she replied. “Okay Ray.” That was when she noticed the stains on my shirt, her face contorted in a frown. “What happened to you?”

“We will talk about that later.” I replied dragging her to Chris.
“Good luck man.” I said then motioned to Barbra and Amina to join me at the dining room to give them privacy.