Episode 17


© Lewis Dampson



Desmond came back with plates and glasses on a tray. He dished out the food and they both began to eat. “Sandra, I know this is out of place considering you have just come home from the hospital, but I have no other choice. I need to know my fate and where I stand. I believe you remember all that I told you in the hospital, “Desmond said and waited for a while for Sandra to nod in agreement before continuing. “Very good! I am glad you remember. So what is your answer, Sandra? Do you have an answer for me? “ Desmond asked. “I have had a deep thought about all that we spoke about back at the hospital. The truth is that, I still don’t have any intimate feelings for you yet. But , I want to give us a chance. You are a good friend, Desmond and I know you will make me happy. I am just hoping I will be able to see you as someone more than a friend one day,” Sandra answered. Desmond was very happy with the answer. He had finally succeeded in letting Sandra say yes to him. It was a relief after many years of rejection.

Jesse was at work when he heard his phone rung. He quickly took it from the table only to be stunned by who was calling him. It was Theodora. He hesitated for some time, but finally picked the call. “Hello,” said Jesse. “Hello, Jesse. How are you doing?” Theodora inquired. “I am fine,” Jesse responded sharply. “Why are you acting cold towards me, Jesse,” Theodora asked. “After all you did to me, you have the boldness to ask me this question!? You thought you were leaving me so I would be miserable. Your plans didn’t work, Theodora!! I met a wonderful girl who has made me forget all about you. I don’t even think about you anymore. Oh, and your portrait that hung on my wall is long gone. I am over you, Theodora,” Jesse lashed out at Theodora.

Theodora began to cry over the phone. She had never seen Jesse react that way. She was calling to apologize for what she did to him. She had began to have problems in her marriage and needed someone to talk to. She knew Jesse was a good listener and hence was calling him for some advice. Her hope was shattered when Jesse lashed out at her with those words.
Jesse realized that Theodora was crying. He felt sad within for treating her that way. He didn’t even ask for the reason she called. At that point, Theodora’s crying intensified and Jesse could feel the pain in her cry. “Hey, Theodora, I am sorry for what I just said,” Jesse apologized. “It is not your fault, Jesse. I deserve that. I treated you in an inhumane way when I left you for my husband,” she said amidst crying. “What is it? Why are you crying? Is it because of what I said? I am sorry for hurting your feelings,” Jesse asked and pleaded. “That is not the source of my worries, Jesse,” Theodora responded. “Then what is it?” Jesse asked. “It is my husband, Jesse. I am beginning to feel I made a mistake,” Theodora confessed. “Wow! Those are strong words. Can you explain further?” Jesse asked. “I will Jesse, but not on phone. I will come over to your place when you close from work. This is not an issue to be discussed on phone,” Theodora responded. “Alright, if you say so, Theodora,” Jesse said. They said goodbye to each other and Jesse ended the call.

Meanwhile, Sandra and Desmond were enjoying each other’s company. Desmond didn’t want to leave Sandra’s side. He had daydreamed about that moment for years and now that it was finally happening, he wanted to enjoy every moment of it. “Desmond, you didn’t tell me why you ended things with Bella. What happened?” Sandra asked Desmond. “Hmm.. It was hell dating that girl, Sandra. Bella had been showing signs of interest in me for a longtime. When it became apparent then that I wouldn’t have any place in your life, I thought of Bella as an excellent replacement. But, I was wrong to think so. Within the first weeks of the relationship, everything was wonderful. It was so full of excitement and love until familiarity began to set in. That was when the true nature of Bella began to manifest. It was like we were two enemies fighting a war. Every conversation turns into an argument and we could hardly go a day without arguing to an extent I became used to it. It got to a time I couldn’t handle it anymore. I reasoned that, if we could fight as much as that just some few weeks into the relationship, then how was it going to be when I married her. I realized I was heading for disaster and had to call it off,” Desmond explained.

Sandra stared at him for some time. “Are you sure it is not for my sake you broke that poor girl’s heart?” Sandra teased.
Desmond smiled and took Sandra’s hand. “That was not it my dear. It is true that I love you very much, but when I am committed to something, I stay committed. I wasn’t happy with her and had to end the relationship before things got out of hand. Maybe, we were not meant to be. I am sure she would find a better suitor,” said Desmond. They both smiled and talked. Desmond received an urgent call and had to leave immediately. Sandra escorted him to his car and he drove off.

“I just pray I will be able to love this guy as he loves me. He has a good heart, but I don’t understand why I don’t feel any intimacy for him. I love him very much, but as a brother. I really need time to develop this feeling because I think of Jesse even when I am with Desmond. Why should it be so? Why can’t everything in life just be simple!? I want to be with Jesse, but I can’t because I am scared I might get hurt again by those his lunatic and obsessed girlfriends. This is really a war,” Sandra brooded over this as she headed back into her house. She was indeed confused, but was determined to make things work out between her and Desmond.
Jesse closed work and decided to pass by Sandra’s place before going home. Sandra was asleep when Jesse got to her house.
She hadn’t rested because of the long chat she had with Desmond. Jesse knocked severally before she ambled to the door with sleepy eyes. When she opened the door, Jesse realized she was asleep and apologized for waking her up. “It is okay, Jesse. I was actually expecting you to pass by after work. Is the meager agreement going smoothly? I hope my absence hadn’t caused any major inconveniences?” Sandra asked. “There is no need to worry about anything, Sandra. I have covered everything. I want you to rest well so you can heal faster. Don’t burden yourself with work,” said Jesse.

Jesse waited for a while to make sure he had got Sandra’s attention before he continued. “Sandra, these past days had made me analyze a lot of things. I have come to realize that I have strong feelings for you. I don’t want you to be afraid of anything because the person who could have cause troubles is behind bars. I know that the feeling is mutual because I also see how you enjoy spending time with me. I want to make it official, dear. Would you want to be in a relationship with me?” Jesse asked.

Sandra became quiet for a while. Actually, that freaked out Jesse since he was expecting a straight ‘yes’ answer from Sandra. But, his hope began to dwindle by Sandra’s mysterious silence. “Jesse, I am surprised. I wasn’t expecting that at all, trust me. Please, can I give you an answer later? As you are aware, I was discharged from the hospital today. Can we please discuss this another time?” Sandra implored Jesse. Jesse agreed by nodding. He was showing signs of displeasure although he agreed. He had come there to pour out his heart only to be met with an indefinite answer. He knew himself. Raising such a topic again wouldn’t be easy. He had to show virtues of patience if he was going to win Sandra’s heart. He had no idea that Sandra had accepted Desmond’s proposal earlier in the day.

Why didn’t Sandra inform Jesse about her new relationship? What has she got in mind? What about Theodora? What is she trying to achieve by contacting Jesse?


...to be continued

Read more here: www.youngicee.com

This one is a repeatiton of episode na! Haba!

Guy we set wait o

Episode 18


© Lewis Dampson


Sandra became quiet for a while. Actually, that freaked out Jesse since he was expecting a straight ‘yes’ answer from Sandra. But, his hope became to dwindle by the sudden silence of Sandra. “Jesse, I am surprised. I wasn’t expecting it, trust me. Please, can I give you an answer later? As you are aware, I was discharged from the hospital today. Can we please discuss this another time?” Sandra implored Jesse. Jesse agreed by nodding. He was showing signs of displeasure although he agreed. He had come there to pour out his heart only to be met with an indefinite answer. He knew himself. Raising such a topic again wouldn’t be easy. He had to show virtues of patience if he was going to win Sandra’s heart. He had no idea that Sandra had accepted Desmond’s proposal earlier in the day.

The only option for Jesse now was to allow Sandra to think about his proposal for some time. Perhaps he was too eager for the relationship to commence. He thought of it as a good idea. He immediately changed the topic to the relief of Sandra. He later excused himself to go home. Sandra escorted him to the door and bade him goodbye. The moment Jesse started walking on the road, thoughts about what Theodora said came to his mind. He was wondering what at all could have made her contact him in such a manner. There was only one way of finding out. He just hoped she will fulfill her promise by coming over.

True to her promise, Jesse found Theodora in front of his house. It seemed she had been standing there for quite some time. Jesse had mixed feelings about everything that was happening. “Finally, Jesse. You are in,” said Theodora. “Yes! I must confess, I am surprised to see you,” Jesse confessed. “I know, Jesse. I have been waiting for you here for some time. What kept you? Because I know the time you close,” Theodora inquired. “I had to pass by a friend’s house. She isn’t feeling well,” Jesse responded. “Wow! She!? I see you are doing well without me,” Theodora teased. “She is not what you think. I said a friend not a fiancee,” said Jesse. “if you say so, Jesse, but I know you. Can we go inside?” Theodora asked. “Sure! Please come in,” Jesse said and opened the door for Theodora.

Theodora started pacing the room immediately she entered. “I see! Same old Jesse. Nothing has changed here except my portrait. You were serious when you said you have thrown it away. I never thought you could get over me that quickly,” said Theodora as she still paced the house. Jesse kept mute and ignored her. “Silent as always,” Theodora teased. “You said you wanted to discuss something important with me. I am here now. Can we begin?” Jesse interjected. “What is the name of the girl you were talking about over the phone? Was she the one you went to see before coming here?” Asked Theodora trying to divert Jesse’s question. “Please, that was not the answer to my question. That is my private business. Can you start talking about your reason for coming here? I don’t have all day!!” Jesse exclaimed. “Calm down, Jesse. I was just pulling your legs,” said Theodora.

Theodora sat in the sofa in silence and began to cry. “This is the only laugh I have had in months, Jesse. There is no joy in my marriage. What I am seeing is horror. I never thought I would end up like this,” Theodora said amidst tears. Her tears moved Jesse. He felt sorry for her although he didn’t know what her problem was. “What is it, Dor? You know you can tell me anything,” Jesse said as he tried his best to comfort her. “You are the first person I am disclosing this to, Jesse. No one knows about this. It is actually difficult for me to tell anyone. I trust you very much that is why I am going to tell you this,” said Theodora. “I am all ears, Theodora,” Jesse said.

“You remember the day you proposed to me?” Theodora asked. “Yes, I do; and I also remember how you ripped my heart out of my chest when you laughed at me. I still remember those words coming out from your mouth. “You can’t handle me, Jesse. I am too big for you to contain,”” Jesse responded with pain and sadness in his voice. “I am so sorry for that, Jesse. I was not wise then. I met this guy on my way to your place that faithful day. He gave me a ride from my Junction to this place. The guy looked very rich and in fact was very rich. We had a lengthy chat in the car on my way here. I realized he was interested in me. You know my weakness for money, Jesse. I couldn’t resist. I weighed both of you in my mind and came to the conclusion that he was a better choice than you. That was why I gave you the kind of answer I did when I came over,” Theodora explained.

Jesse just looked on in silence. He was lost for word. He just watched Theodora as she paused for a while to wipe her tears. “That was the worst mistake of my life, Jesse. The day I rejected you for him. He was very intense with his approach and I fell for it. He talked about marrying me and I couldn’t control myself. I mean who wouldn’t want to be married to such a successful guy?” Theodora asked rhetorically.

“We scheduled the married for the following month. He quickly went to see my parents to ask for my hand in marriage. My mom was quite suspicious when she got to know how long we have dated. She advised me to take my time to know the guy well before committing myself to the institution of marriage. I would have none of it. I remember vividly the constant disagreement I had with my parents because of that issue. It got to a time I wasn’t talking to them anymore. I gave them no choice, but to accept my decision. The date for the wedding was finally fixed and I got married to Newman.

Everything was working as I envisioned. Newman was so sweet and caring. He often showered me with expensive gifts anytime he came back from his travels. It was just me, him and the dog in the house. He treated both the dog and myself well. I was beginning to get jealous since Newman gave the dog the same attention he gave me. Sometimes the dog got more attention. I was thinking why he would give an animal so much attention than a human being. But, I reasoned that, the dog had been with him for a long time and they have really gotten acquainted with each other. So it was a normal thing.

Three months into the marriage, I got pregnant. That was where everything took a turn. Newman initially was supportive even until the baby was born. I gave birth to the baby in London. I came back to Ghana to find a new Newman. He was surrounded by new friends I didn’t know of. He became distant and always spends his nights out of our matrimonial bed.

I followed him one night when he got up from bed to do whatever he had always been doing at that ungodly hour. I was so filled with curiosity. I trailed him as he walked on the compound backward in a spiral movement. He removed his clothing at a point and did walked backward again with his unclothedness. I was so frightened. He was mumbling some words on is lips as he walked. The next thing I saw was that, he approaching the dog’s kennel. What I saw with my eyes can’t be explained with words. But, let me try and explain as well as I can. I saw my husband having intimacy with the dog with do much passion. He had never expressed such passion to me in our entire marital life. I was so horrified. It was then I understood why he gave the dog more attention. It wasn’t just a dog to him,” Theodora began to wail at this point. Jesse embraced her and began to comfort her.

...to be continued


Read more on www.youngicee.com

Episode 19

© Lewis Dampson


Episode 19

I followed him one night when he got up from bed to do whatever he had always been doing at that ungodly hour. I was so filled with curiosity. I trailed him as he walked on the compound backwards in a spiral movement. He removed his clothing at a point and did walked backward again with his unclothedness. I was so frightened. He was mumbling something on is lips as he walked. The next thing I saw was he approaching the dog’s kennel. What I saw with my eyes can’t be explained with words. But, let me try and explain as well as I can. I saw my husband having intimacy with the dog with do much passion. He had never expressed such passion to me I our entire marital life. I was so horrified. It was then I understood why he gave the dog more attention. It wasn’t just a dog to him,” Theodora began to wail at this point. Jesse embraced her and began to comfort her.

“I couldn’t keep quiet any longer since I was so horrified. I began to scream and something unexpected happened,” continued Theodora. “What happened?” Jesse asked. “He just looked at me, smiled and continued with what he was doing. My soul was pierced with arrows of disappointment and regret. I just looked on with my mouth wide open as he continued to do what he was doing. He occasionally looked at me and smiled. I couldn’t take the humiliation anymore so I fled to the bedroom in tears,” Theodora said and took a handkerchief to wipe off her tears.

“He came to the bedroom after thirty minutes. At that time, the pillow was soaked with my tears. Newman came and knelt beside the bed. I turned my face to the other direction because I couldn’t look at him without getting a flashback of what I had seen earlier. He continued to smile and began to talk. After all, he knew I could hear him loud and clear.”

“Now listen to me you fool! You are my wife and that means I own you. You can’t come into my life and determine my pace!! Do you know how all those money you are enjoying are made? All you know is spending! I am warning you seriously, no., rather take it as a threat because your life depends on it. If you dare inform anyone about what you just saw, I will kill you with my bare hands and nothing will happen!! I want you to behave like my wife and I don’t give a damn about how you feel. If you can’t love me anymore, fake it for the outside world. I don’t even need your love anyway. If not for my parents who pressured me into getting married, do you think I would have come for a baggage like you!!? From now onward, we will be sharing the bed with the dog. It is far more important to me than you since I get all my money from it. So you can either accommodate it or move to another room. But, don’t dare think about divorce!! I will kill you before you even do that,” that was what he told me, Jesse when he came to the bedroom.

“I cried my eyes out, but those tears could do nothing for me at the time. How foolish I have been to fall into this ditch? How could I have traded my relationship with you for materialistic gains? I have not been the same again since that faithful night. I am depressed, Jesse. I feel like taking my own life. I can’t bear this inhumane humiliations anymore,” said Theodora amidst crying. “Don’t say that, Theodora. That is not the solution to the problem, “ advised Jesse. “Then what is, Jesse? Tell me because I am going crazy!!” exclaimed Theodora. “Give me some time. I will come up with something. I promise you that,” Jesse said. “If you say so. I have to take my leave now. I need to get to the house before that monster comes home. Please, Jesse, I am relying on you to come through for me. Keep me updated,” Theodora said, wiped off her tears again with the handkerchief and stood up to leave. Jesse escorted her to her car and she drove off.

Desmond tried all he could to make Sandra realize she made the right choice in choosing him. He constantly pulled up surprises and Sandra was indeed impressed. She still hoped she could actually fall in love with Desmond one day. He was so caring and romantic. She wondered why she couldn’t just love him back. She sometimes forced herself to establish that missing connection, but nothing worked. It became a constant worry since she always brooded over the issue. She often found herself thinking about Jesse although she was in the caring arms of Desmond who was putting in his all. A lot of things were going on in Sandra’s mind since she was resuming work the following day. She had been playing hide and seek with Jesse since the day he proposed to her. She didn’t want to tell him she had another guy in her life. She didn’t know why she felt that way. The only thing she thought was right for her to do was to hide herself from Jesse. She ignored his calls and even refuse meeting him physically.

Jesse didn’t understand why Sandra was distancing herself from him. It wasn’t like that before. She was the one who would even come to his house. But the situation was different now. She didn’t even want to pick his calls. He was wondering if what Jasmine did had caused an irreparable rift between Sandra and him. He even tried to visit her in her house, but she refused to see him. Or he had freaked her out by his proposal? He just couldn’t concentrate on anything. He was under stress from two situations. Theodora’s problems and the issue he was going through with Sandra. He was happy though that Sandra would be resuming work the next day. He shared the same office with her. That meant there was no way she would be able to avoid him. He needed answers for what was going on.

Jesse woke up early the next day to go to work. He quickly got dressed and was on his way. Perhaps, he would see Sandra at the stop. He was very disappointed when he didn’t see her at the bus stop. The bus that usually pick them came, but Sandra was still not in sight. He boarded the bus and went to work hoping to see her. To his amazement, Sandra wasn’t at the office too. Was she not going to work that day?

Sandra didn’t go to the bus stop because Desmond had promised to give her a lift to work. “I don’t like it when you always have to queue at the stop to go to work. You are my fiancée now and I want that to stop. So from henceforth, I will be taking you to work myself with my car,” Desmond said to Sandra. So in respect to that, Sandra waited comfortably in her house for Desmond.

Jesse was in the office looking through the glass window waiting for Sandra to show up. He saw a car stopping in front of the company. The driver of the car which he knew came out and opened the car door on the other side of the car. Sandra came out of the car and they hugged. The guy stepped into the car and drove off. Sandra on the other hand walked into the building.

A lot of things were going on in his mind. Because, he remembered what happened at the hospital when he went to visit Sandra. He knew the guy was interested in Sandra. But, as to if Sandra was also interested, he wasn’t sure. Now, this is the same guy who had come to drop her off. He even hugged her passionately and gave her a peck on the cheek. “Why would Sandra be avoiding me and moving around with this guy?” he asked himself rhetorically. “No, there is nothing going on. I am just being jealous for nothing. I know Sandra likes me very much and she wouldn’t do that to me. I am sure he saw her at a junction and decided to give her a ride. After all, they are very good friends,” said Jesse trying to give himself some sort of hope. He was still troubled and needed answers. He was just waiting for Sandra to come to the office to explain everything to him.

What do you think will happen when Sandra shows up in the office? Would she be bold enough to tell Jesse she is dating Desmond?

...to be continued

Read more here: www.youngicee.com

God bless you... Keep it up

© Lewis Dampson

A lot of things were going on in his mind. Because he remembered what happened at the hospital when he went to visit Sandra. He knew the guy was interested in Sandra. But, as to if Sandra was also interested, he wasn’t sure. Now, this is the same guy who had come to drop her off. He even hugged her passionately and gave her a peck on the cheek. “Why would Sandra be avoiding me and moving around with this guy?” he asked himself rhetorically. “No, there is nothing going on. I am just being jealous for nothing. I know Sandra likes me very much and she wouldn’t do that to me. I am sure he saw her on the junction and decided to give her a ride. After all, they are very good friends,” said Jesse trying to give himself some sort of hope. He was still troubled and needed answers. He was just waiting for Sandra to come to the office to explain everything to him.

Sandra stood at the gate that led to the office for some time because she didn’t know how to explain things to Jesse. She knew Jesse would be expecting an answer from her which she wasn’t ready to answer. She mustered courage and entered the office only to see Jesse sitting on the office desk upright facing her. She became petrified by the process. “Won’t you close the door?” Jesse asked. Sandra still became mute. She moved and occupied her seat in the office trying her best to avoid eye contact with Jesse.

“Sandra, you seem not to be yourself today. What is the matter? I have been trying severally to contact you, but all to no avail,” Jesse inquired. Sandra managed to put herself together to reply Jesse. “I have been around, Jesse,” she replied. “Around!? I have been to your house on several occasions and I always meet your absence. What is going on with you? You are behaving strange of late,” said Jesse. “Jesse, I said I am fine. I was still recovering and needed time for myself. That is why you haven’t been hearing from me of late. I am sorry,” Sandra lied.

Jesse looked at her for some time, sighed and continued “so do you remember what we discussed the last time we met?” Jesse asked. “Yes, I remember,” Sandra replied. “And you promised me you were going to think about it. I guess you have had enough time to consider my proposal?” Inquired Jesse. “Not really, Jesse. I am still thinking about it,” Sandra replied. “Still thinking? Oh, Sandra! I thought we had some sort of connection. I thought the proposal would have just been a formality for us to build something together. I don’t understand why you are dragging your feet,” Jesse lamented.

Sandra became uncomfortable when she realized Jesse was becoming emotional with the whole thing. Part of her wanted to confess to Jesse that she was dating Desmond while the other part wanted to keep it a secret. She knew she would lose Jesse immediately she confessed. She was so confused at what to do or how to reply Jesse.

Luckily for Sandra, she was saved by Jesse’s phone. Jesse got a call while waiting for Sandra to answer his question. The call was from Theodora. Jesse didn’t want to receive the call in the presence of Sandra so he went outside to speak to her. “Hello, Theodora. Please I am at…” Jesse heard her crying before he could complete his sentence. “What is the problem? Why are you crying?” Jesse asked. “I can’t take it anymore, Jesse! I can’t Just take it!! He is ruining my life! Can you imagine he sacked me from our matrimonial bed only ti be replaced that animal!! I need a way out, Jesse,” said Theodora in tears. “Calm down ,Theodora. Listen, this is what we are going to do. I want you to meet me at the coffee shop near my workplace. Let us discuss everything properly there,” suggested Jesse. “What time, please?” Theodora asked. “You can leave the house now. I have nothing doing at present. I can meet you,” said Jesse. Jesse hung up the call and went back into the office.

Sandra was sitting in the office thinking about what to tell Jesse if he should return. It was undeniable that she was attracted to Jesse. But, she was committed to Desmond. She had been trying all her best to fall in love with Desmond, but all to no avail. She thought she would with time. To Sandra, Desmond was a nice guy who deserved the best. He needed someone who would love him and reciprocate his tenderheartedness. Thinking about it, it was selfish for her to be holding on to Desmond while her heart lies with Jesse. She reasoned that if she wasn’t careful, she might lose both of them. She had to make the right decision and make it as fast as possible before she loses everything. And the first thing she was going to do was to talk to Desmond and make him understand the situation. She would then tell Jesse the truth and accept his proposal.

“Sandra, I have to meet someone right now. I will be back soon. Please go over the files I worked on yesterday to see if I did everything right. And don’t forget, I will come back for my answer, Jesse said. “Don’t worry, your answer will be ready the next time we speak about the subject,” Sandra replied. Jesse smiled, took some things from his desk and went out of the office to meet Theodora.

Sandra saw the opportunity to speak to Desmond when Jesse went out of the office . “Hello, Desmond. How are you doing?” Sandra asked when Desmond picked the call. “You know I am doing well, sweetheart. Ever since you came into my life, everything has been working perfectly,” Desmond responded. “Hmmm… Desmond we need to meet and talk. We need to have a discussion, “said Sandra. “Talk about? I was just with you this morning. You are sounding too serious on the phone. Can’t we talk about it on phone?” Desmond asked. “Please let us meet over lunch and talk. The time for lunch break is almost due. What I want to discuss cannot be done on phone,” said Sandra. Desmond had to agree to that since he was so anxious to know what Sandra wanted to discuss with him that couldn’t be done on phone.

Jesse met with Theodora at the coffee shop. They exchanged pleasantries the moment they met. Theodora started crying immediately she saw Jesse. Jesse tried his best to comfort her. “Have you come up with anything, Jesse?” Theodora asked. “I have been thinking about this for some time now, Theodora. The only thing that came in mind was that, you should report the matter to your parents and then to the police. He is tormenting and threatening you, my dear. Your parents and the police should know about it before he carries out his threats one day,” Jesse advised. “I have thought about that, Jesse. But, the shame! The public ridicule!! I don’t think I have the capacity for that,” Theodora said. “And do you have the capacity for what he is doing to you?” Jesse inquired. “No!” Theodora answered. “Good! That is why you need to do what I am saying as soon as possible. They may say they advised and you didn’t listen, but come-on, they are your parents. They will do anything to make sure you are okay, “ said Jesse.

Theodora thought about what Jesse said and realized it was a good idea. She had to inform the police and her parents. She had gone through enough torments under the roof of Newman. It was about time she stood up for herself before she goes to her early grave. Thoughts about committing suicide had flooded her memory for some time and she knew she would act on those thoughts with time. She went into a pensive mood for something and Jesse knew that she was thinking deeply about what he said. “Thank you very much, Jesse for the advice. I think I should be on my way now,” said Theodora. Jesse was shocked at that statement. “why?” he asked. “You just gave me an advice and I need to act on it now! I am going to see my parents from here. I have to tell them everything. I can’t keep all these things from them,” Theodora said and took her leave.

...to be continued

Episode 21


© Lewis Dampson

Theodora thought about what Jesse said and realized it was a good idea. She had to inform the police and her parents. She had gone through enough torments under the roof of Newman. It was about time she stood up for herself before she goes to her early grave. Thoughts about committing suicide had flooded her memory for some time and she knew she would act on those thoughts with time. She went into a pensive mood for something and Jesse knew that she was thinking deeply about what he said. “Thank you very much, Jesse for the advice. I think I should be on my way now,” said Theodora. Jesse was shocked at that statement. “why?” he asked. “You just gave me an advice and I need to act on it now! I am going to see my parents from here. I have to tell them everything. I can’t keep all these things from them,” Theodora said and took her leave.

Sandra met Desmond during her break time. He was so anxious to know what Sandra had to say that couldn’t be said on phone. Had she gotten herself into another trouble? Had she been fired? These thoughts ran through Desmond’s mind while he stared at Sandra waiting for her to start the conversation. “Desmond, say something. You are making me nervous,” said Sandra. “Me? Making you nervous? You are rather making me feel uncomfortable. You said you wanted us to discuss an issue. So I am waiting for you to commence,” Desmond responded.

Sandra thought she had gathered all the courage to break up with Desmond. But, it seems her courage wasn’t enough to go straight to the point. She looked at Desmond and saw a guy who would do everything possible to make her happy. How could she break such a heart? She felt bad about the decision she had taken earlier. She wondered if she should continue with her mission. There sat across the table an innocent guy who knows nothing except to shower her with love and attention. Who wouldn’t have wished for such a treatment? Sandra felt terrible about herself. She felt like an insensitive person to even think about breaking up with Desmond.

Upon careful consideration, she thought it wise to spill the beans. There was no way she could continue to be in a relationship with a guy and be thinking about another person. The whole thing made her feel she was cheating and she hated that feeling. She needed to set things straight and that begins with telling Desmond the truth.

“Desmond , you have been so good to me all these years. I want to begin by saying that I appreciate all that you have done for me. The times you were around even when no one was. You are indeed an angel. I never thought that this day would come and it grieves my heart that my fears has finally come to pass.”

Desmond was confused at this point. He didn’t know where Sandra was going with her speech. He initially thought she was appreciating him for all the sacrifices he had made all the years he had been with her, but her diversion into matters of grief really confused him. “What are you talking about, Sandra? Is someone dead or what?” Desmond asked anxiously. “Please Desmond, don’t make this harder than it already is,” Sandra responded. Her sharp response stunned Desmond. He remained quiet and only listened to her.

“As I was saying, I have watched you through all these years trying to win my heart. The truth is that, I sincerely wanted to give you my love, but I couldn’t . The more I tried to love you, the more difficult it became. The only feeling I had towards you was that of a big brother. When we met recently due to the accident, I wanted to give it a try. I thought maybe it was fear that was keeping me bound. I thought maybe if I get more intimate, I will come to love you like how you love me. But, that wasn’t the case, Desmond. I have tried, believe me, but all to no avail. I keep thinking of another guy while I am with you. I can’t keep on with this pretense. I can’t watch you any longer investing your time while I know it wouldn’t yield anything. I am in love with someone else ,Desmond. I am sorry, but that is the truth, “ Sandra said and buried her face.

Sandra was expecting Desmond to speak after she was done with what she was saying. She waited for some time, but she didn’t hear anything. She looked up finally to see what was preventing Desmond from speaking. She saw tears streaming down Desmond’s cheek when she looked into his face. Sandra was lost for words at the time. She didn’t know how to handle the situation. There was nothing she could do to help the situation. She couldn’t console Desmond because she was the cause of his pain and she couldn’t also retract what she said because she meant every word of it. Desmond finally broke his silence and spoke.

“Sandra, why would you do this to me? Have I done anything wrong in loving you with my everything. I even loved you in moments when all had forsaken you. What else should I do to prove my love for you. When you accepted my proposal, I thought my dream of having you as my wife had finally come to pass. I didn’t know that it was a mirage. I didn’t know I was daydreaming. You have broken my heart, Sandra. I am deeply hurt by your constant rejection,” Desmond lamented.

Sandra could barely look into the face of Desmond. It was time for her to go back to the office, but she felt glued to her seat. How could she leave Desmond in such a state. Her news had changed his mood drastically. Desmond finally stopped shedding tears and spoke. “Sandra, I want to let you know that you can’t do away with me. I will never give up on you. Like always, I will be waiting because I know you will come back to me. I will see you later,” Desmond said and went away. Sandra sat in her chair for some time and thought about what had transpired between Desmond and her. Although she felt sorry for doing what she did, she knew in the heart that it was the right thing to do. Now, she was free to follow her heart.

Sandra left the coffee shop to the office. She met Jesse already back at the office. He was sitting in the exact position he had sat in the morning. “I have been waiting for you, Sandra. So you couldn’t even wait for us to go to lunch together? I told you I will come back for my answer. It has been a longtime and I need to know the way forward,” said Jesse. Sandra walked across the room and sat in her chair.

“Jesse, I have thought about your proposal. I had to make sure I wouldn’t be making a mistake by being with you. The fact that we are in the same office is even a distraction on its own. But, I can’t deny my feelings for you anymore. I have loved you since the day we met and I had secretly wished you will propose some day. I was scared when that day came because of what Jasmine did to me. I am not scared anymore because love conquers all things,” Sandra said. Jesse watched Sandra and listened with a rapt attention while she spoke.

He was glad Sandra didn’t turn down his proposal. He got up and hugged her. “I will always love you, Sandra. I will never let you down. Please, let us keep this fire of love in our hearts burning. We will be the happiest couple ever, “ Jesse said and smiled. They hugged again and separated because they didn’t want any of the workers to chance upon them. Before Jesse could sit, Theodora walked into the office. She jumped on Jesse and hugged him. “Jesse, you are such a darling. I would have given you a kiss if this wasn’t your workplace for giving me such a brilliant idea. I love you, Jesse. You are my angel,” Theodora said as she still hung on Jesse. Now, Sandra couldn’t believe her eyes and ears. What was happening? She remembered Theodora as the lady in the portrait that used to hang on Jesse’s wall. What was happening to her minutes old relationship? She got angry and stormed out of the office.

...to be continued


Read the remaining 2 Episodes here: www.youngicee.com/category/a-game-of-love-and-obsession

Guy u too much

Episode 22

© Lewis Dampson

He was glad Sandra didn’t turn down his proposal. He got up and hugged her. “I will always love you Sandra. I will never let you down. Please, let us keep this fire of love in our hearts burning. We will be the happiest couple ever, “ Jesse said and smiled. They hugged again and separated because they didn’t want any of the workers to chance upon them. Before Jesse could sit, Theodora walked into the office. She jumped on Jesse and hugged him. “Jesse, you are such a darling. I would have given you a kiss if this wasn’t your workplace for giving me such a brilliant idea. I love you, Jesse. You are my angel,” Theodora said as she still hung on Jesse. Now, Sandra couldn’t believe her eyes. What was happening. She remembered Theodora as the lady in the portrait that used to hang on Jesse’s wall. What was happening to her minutes old relationship? She got angry and stormed out of the office.

When Jesse realized it, he quickly got out of the grips of Theodora and chased after Sandra. “Sandra!! Sandra!! Sandra stop!! Wait and listen to me!” Jesse screamed after her. Sandra maintained her pace. She was so angry at Jesse to an extent that she didn’t want to turn to look at him. Jesse increased his pace and soon caught up with her. “Wait, Sandra!! What is the meaning of this!?” he asked. “Are you seriously going to pull up this card? You want to use reverse psychology on me? Isn’t that, Theodora? What is she doing in your office? Look at the way she was all over you! To an extent of telling you she loves you!! Wow!! I didn’t see this coming! Do you know the price I had to pay to be in this relationship And for what!?? Eh!? For you to return to your ex-girlfriend!?” Sandra lamented.

Jesse listened attentively for Sandra to finish with what she was saying. “Sandra, you need to calm down. It is not as you think it is,” said Jesse. “Why, do you think I am blind or deaf!? What do you take me for? I saw what the lady said and did in that room. I can see you can’t get over her. Go back to that room and continue what you have started,” Sandra said in anger. As soon as she finished her statement, Theodora walked in on them. “You don’t even have to bother going back to the office. She has brought herself right here in the corridor. Please, let me excuse both of you so that you can have ample time to catch up for lost times,” Sandra walked out on Jesse and Theodora.

Jesse was confused as to what was going on with Sandra. They were happy just moment ago. What happened? It seemed that no happiness had existed before. Theodora smiled at him and walked closer. “I can perceive that is your new fiancee. Don’t worry, she will come around. We ladies are like that. We tend to be jealous when we see another lady encroaching our space,” Theodora assured Jesse. “I don’t understand what is wrong with her. I have never seen her behave this way before,” said Jesse. “My dear, that is the power of jealousy. It makes one do things they never imagined they could do. Trust me, everything will be fine,” said Theodora.

Jesse was almost done for the day at the office so he asked Theodora to wait for her in the company’s waiting room. He told her he would be with her in no time. Theodora agreed and went to the waiting room. There were a lot of things she needed to tell Jesse. Jesse came to the waiting room in thirty minutes. “Please, let us go. I can see you have some exciting news to share,” said Jesse as he led the way out of the company’s building. “Of course, I have an exciting news to share. And I will explode if I should keep it bottled up. Please, let us go to my car. We can talk there,” Theodora suggested. “If you say so. Please, lead the way to your car,” said Jesse .

Theodora led the way to her car. Before they could enter into her car, another car pulled up

behind them. Three muscular guys came out of the car and charged at Jesse. Jesse didn’t know what was happening. All he knew was to escape from those guys as fast as he can. He didn’t even think about it. He took to his heels and the guys chased him. Newman got out from the car. He went straight to the now horrified Theodora. Theodora was mortified. She thought she was done with Newman’s threat forever. Fear was her evident friend at that moment.

“You think you can do whatever you want and walk away with it? I told you not to tell anyone about my secret and you went ahead to tell your parents. Do you know what those stupid parents of yours did? They called my aunt to inform her. Now the whole village knows about my activities. Everyone is calling me a ritualist and it is all your fault. You will pay for this, trust me!” Newman exclaimed. “Boss, the guy has run away. He was too fast for us,” said one of the muscular guys. Jesse had outrun them. “Get hold of her and let us go,” Newman commanded the guys. They forcefully pulled Theodora into Newman’s car and drove off. One of the guys took Theodora’s car and drove behind them. Theodora was sore afraid. She feared for her life. Newman had warned her to remain quiet or pay with her life. Was that a threat or he actually meant what he said?

Jesse came back to see that Theodora’s car was gone. He immediately took a taxi to a nearby police station to report the incident. Since Jesse wasn’t around to see Newman’s face, he didn’t know who was after him. In fact, even if he had seen Newman, he wouldn’t have recognized him. He wrote his statement to the police and decided to go to the house and return later to check if they have any leads.

Meanwhile, Desmond had come to pick Sandra from work without the knowledge of Jesse. She was so angry with him. She needed someone to talk to and the only person that came in mind was Desmond. Desmond didn’t waste time in coming to get her. “What is the problem, Sandra?” Desmond asked. “I am sorry Desmond for the way I treated you this afternoon,” said Sandra. “Please, I don’t think that was an answer to my question,” Desmond insisted. “I just got into a fight with, Jesse,” Sandra confessed. “Jesse… Jesse.. Oh, the guy I met at the hospital. The one you said you are working with?” Desmond asked. “Yes, Desmond,” Sandra answered. “Why? Is he giving you a hard time at work?” Desmond asked again. “He was the guy I told you I am in love with,” Sandra confessed. “Actually, we started our relationship today. We had a disagreement some hours ago and I am worried, Desmond. He should have called by now,” said Sandra.

Desmond looked at her for some time before replying. “Tell me what really caused the problem,” Desmond requested. “I went straight to the office after we met at the coffee shop. Jesse was already in the office when I got there. Actually, he had been pestering me for an answer to his proposal. I decided to give him answer after I had sorted out things with you, which I did. Immediately after i said yes to his proposal, his ex-girlfriend came to interrupt our nice atmosphere. She came and threw herself at him and even tried kissing him. She even told him she loved him. Can you imagine!!? She didn’t even have the courtesy that I was present in the room. So I got angry and left. Jesse ran after me and tried to explain things. But, I was so angry to listen. Jealousy was eating me up at the time,” Sandra explained. “You shouldn’t have done that, Sandra. You should have allowed him to explain himself. Maybe it is not as you are imagining,” said Desmond.

Desmond drove Sandra to her house. Sandra knew she had made a mistake by jumping to conclusion. What if Jesse wouldn’t want to see her again? What if Jesse judged her as a jealous and an impatient lady and decides to end everything? That was a possibility she wouldn’t want to hear. She would be so shattered because she loved him very much. Tears welled up in her eyes and she began to cry. She got out of the car still crying. Desmond crossed over to her side and hugged her. Sandra sobbed and held on tight to Desmond. “What is happening here!? So this is your solution to the problem? I see,” said Jesse as he walked away in anger. Jesse had come to see Sandra to explain things better to her only to find her in the arms of his rival. He couldn’t stand the sight of what he saw so he walked away. Sandra quickly left Desmond and ran after Jesse. Jesse was so brokenhearted that he didn’t have the emotional stamina to listen to her. Relentless Sandra continued to follow him. She implored him to listen to her, but Jesse would have none of it.

...to be continued


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