End Of The Road (a Novel) Chapter 1

Gladys wasn't sure when she missed the way. According to the address on the sketchy directions she had, she had been walking on the right road. Then suddenly, she turned around and realised that she was lost. The buildings around her looked strange and deserted. She was going to her auntie's house in Victoria Island, and she had never been there before. Her aunt had asked her to come and stay at her house for some months. The older lady had written that she was feeling lonely since her last daughter had left home to join her husband and start work in Abuja. Gladys was surprised at the request, as it was coming from an aunt who had not written or called Gladys or her family for over 15 years.

Gladys was the first and only daughter of her parents, and since her father's death, she lived with her other and three younger brothers in a two bedroom flat in a low cost housing estate in Enugu. She shared a room with her mum and the boys shared the other one. Gladys had travelled by the night bus and arrived in Lagos early in the morning. She had been lucky to get accurate directions from some people at the station on the bus to get to the island. On reaching the last stop, the route had seemed clear enough but now the houses around her looked strange and a bit frightening. She wrapped her arms around her body and shivered. Looking at the sketchily drawn map, she tried to find her way to the right street. Her mind went back to what her mother had said as she had drawn the map, just before leaving Enugu.

"Gladys", her mother called, "you know that if not that things had been so hard for me since your father died, you wouldn't be going to Lagos. I am not very happy with your aunt's request to join her in Lagos. I know that it is condescending of her, but we have to face facts. You have just graduated from university, but your brothers are still in school. I'm happy that you all did well enough to go to university, and I thank God for that, but it has not been easy, "

"I understand, Mama. Please don't worry", Gladys soothed.

"I also think that you might have a better chance of getting a job in Lagos", her mother continued. "My daughter, please behave yourself over there. Your aunt might be amongst the rich people of this world, but I have taught you that true wealth is friendship with God. Do not give your aunt any cause to complain or call me bad names. Any time you feel like coming home, remember that we are waiting for you with open arms."

Tears came to Gladys' eyes, and she got up and hugged her mother tightly. "I love you Mama."

"I love you to, Ada'm". Her mother had called her her pet name, smoothing her hair. They had looked at the map together and her mum had asked, "Do you think that this shows good directions? Can you get there on your own?"

Gladys had shrugged. "I'm a big girl, Mama. I can get there without missing my way."

As Gladys recalled this conversation, she shook her head in confusion. She stared at the map again, and as she did so, the gate of the house she was standing in front of opened, and a black Mercedes with tinted windows purred smoothly out. She stared at it in admiration, and was startled when the car stopped before her. Her mouth almost gaped open when the driver's window rolled down automatically.

"May I help you?" the young man at the wheel enquired.

"No,  no,  no, " she stammered in confusion, drinking in the sight of him. He was the most attractive man she had ever seen, and he had a certain stamp of authority all over him. He looked to be in his mid-thirties, and he had laugh lines around his big brown eyes.

"Then why are you standing in front of my house at this early hour?" the man asked with a frown, his deep voice breaking into her thoughts.
"Erm,  it seems that I've lost my way", she burst out without thinking.

He looked her over in suspicion. "Are you sure?"

"Yes", she replied, trying to compose herself. "My aunt lives at, " She looked down at the piece of paper, reeled off the address and continued. "I am visiting her for the first time."

After looking her over for a few moments, the man gestured at her to get into the car. She didn't understand at first and stared at him dumbly. When he repeated the motion, she finally asked, "What?"

"Get in", he commanded, opening the car door.

"Why?" she asked. "Where do you want to take me?"

She was a bit alarmed, because his face looked a bit menacing. She glanced around warily, seeking help or a means of escape.

"Where else but your aunt's house?" he snapped.

"You don't need to do that. Just give me the directions to get there. I'll, "

He cut her off. "Get in the car right now!" he said on an authoritative note.

Gladys got inside the car reluctantly, interpreting his reaction to mean that he did not trust her or believe her story. The interior of the car was spacious and lavishly appointed. She was still silently admiring the fittings when a few minutes later, they drew up in front of a big mansion.

"This is the address you gave me. Your aunt's place," he stated without looking at her.

"Thank you", Gladys murmured, getting out of the car and picking her carry-all from the back seat. She was expecting him to drive away immediately, so she was surprised to see him still there as she rang the bell at the gate.

She gave the man who opened the gate her name and her particulars.

"Ah! Madam dey expects you. Come inside," the gateman said, ushering her inside and helping with the luggage. When she looked back briefly, the car was gone.

Inside the house, her aunt came out and hugged her tightly. "Oh Gladys, thank God you're here."

Her aunt seemed really glad to see her, and Gladys hugged her back gingerly. She couldn't yet believe that her aunt was really going to like her stay at her house.

"How is your family, your mother and brothers?” Her aunt indicated she should sit in one of the plush living room chairs.
"They are all fine, thank you ma. God has been good to us," Gladys replied.


"Good, good. I know they must be all grown up now. Look at you," her aunt enthused. "You have finished university and youth service, haven't you?"

"Yes I have," Gladys smiled at her aunt's admiration. She couldn't reconcile her aunt's attitude to the neglect of the previous years. For a woman who had not paid them a visit, sent them a letter or even made any effort to establish a relationship with her family, she was behaving so nicely. It amazed her that her aunt was trying to placate her as if she wanted a favor from her.

"You are a very beautiful girl. Your mum says that you are looking for a job. I believe I can help you. What course did you study?"

"I finished with a second class upper degree in business administration."

"That is very nice", her aunt replied. "Have you sent out any application letters?"

"Yes, I applied for vacancies in some companies towards the end of my service year in Maiduguri. I even have an appointment for an interview in Lagos in a few weeks."

Her aunt smiled. "I hope that works out, but I will also pursue some of my late husband's connections and see what happens."

"Thank you very much." Gladys was still wondering why the woman was being so kind.

Suddenly she yawned uncontrollably. Her aunt stood up immediately. "Sorry my dear, I shouldn't have kept you here talking. You've just come off a very long journey and I know you must be very tired. Come with me, I'll show you upstairs to the guest room."

As they went upstairs, her aunt called to a girl they could see in one of the bedrooms. The girl was making the bed. "Bunmi, come over here. Leave the beds for a minute."

"Yes, ma", the girl replied.

"Go and prepare some toast and tea for my niece. Please be fast, OK?"

They soon got to another door and entered an airy, well furnished room. Gladys' bags were already there at the foot of the bed.

"This will be your room for as long as you wish to remain with me," her aunt said, turning around the room. "I hope it is to your liking."

"Of course auntie." The room was the size of the whole of the living area in their flat in Enugu.

"Well, I want you to be very comfortable here, so feel free to tell me if you don’t like anything.

"No problem, auntie. I'm sure I'll enjoy staying here with you."

"All right, Bunmi will bring the food when it is ready. You can freshen up in the adjoining bathroom." She pointed to a door on the other side of the bed. "It's over there."

"Thank you ma", Gladys said, overwhelmed.

"You don't have to thank me, my dear. Just eat, sleep and relax. We'll talk later in the day."

Her aunt left the room and closed the door quietly behind her. Gladys gave a whoop of joy and danced round the room, touching everything - the bedspreads, curtains, wardrobes, dresser, mirror, everything. The wonderful reality of the house was made even better by her aunt's positive attitude. She had thought that her aunt would treat her as some sort of househelp or poor relative, but the situation was obviously different. She knelt down, said a quick prayer of thanksgiving and then got up to change. Everything was going to be great, by the grace of God.

**********

What a way to start the week, Edward thought as he looked unseeing out of the large windows before him. It was a Monday, and throughout that day, he had not been able to take his mind off the girl he had seen that morning on the way to the office. She was so beautiful and innocent looking, though he hadn't thought of that when he had first seen her. He had felt suspicious of her story of being stranded and lost in Victoria Island of all places. However, it had turned out that she was telling the truth, and was indeed going to her aunt's house.

He knew that he had behaved a bit boorishly towards her, and yet he hadn't been able to behave any differently. That had been his way of ensuring that he didn't stare at her as he would have wanted. Still, the few minutes he had looked at her seemed to have imprinted her on his heart. The way her nose turned up just so; the way her eyelids drooped over her large eyes; the wonder in her gaze as she had admired the car; the way her skirt had ridden up just so to reveal shapely knees, and the other shapely curves too.

Get hold of yourself, man, he muttered to himself, hitting his head lightly with an open palm. Just then, his secretary entered the office at that moment and looked at him curiously.

"Sir, Mr. Odusote is here to see you."

"Tell him to come in", Edward told her, pretending a fascination with the papers before him, and refusing to meet her eyes.

Mr. Odusote was someone he actually did not want to meet. The man had come into the office the previous week with a recommendation from a friend of his. He had a proposal for a business which he wanted them to embark on together, but Edward had not been impressed. He had asked the man to come back so that he could have some time to give a second thought to the deal before making up his mind.

"Good day, Edward," Mr. Odusote greeted, striding confidently into the room.

"How do you do?" replied Edward, standing up to shake his hand.

"All is fine with me," his visitor replied, sitting down and adjusting his bulk in the seat. "Have you thought about what we discussed last week?"

"Yes I have, but you called and said that you had more information."

"Yes I did, and that is why I am here." Mr. Odusote placed a sheaf of papers on the desk, and went into details of the business proposal in light of the new information. Halfway through the discussion, Edward's attention drifted off.

"Are you actually listening to me?" the man groused.

"Go on", Edward replied absent-mindedly.

"This is the financial outlook, and it's very important", Mr. Odusote replied in an irritated voice.

"OK, OK, I'm all ears", Edward soothed, trying to pay full attention to the man's words.

Mr. Odusote concluded his spiel, and to Edward's relief left soon afterwards when he got a call on his mobile. By the end of the day, Edward had made up his mind. One of his life's policies was that he went after anything that he wanted, and as luck would have it, he usually got them. He knew he wanted that girl.

**********

Lol Myne,

Most writers, I know are quite selfish. They prefer people to read and comment on their posts/write-ups, but they fail to realize that that's exactly what other posters expect of them.

Myne, you are no exception. You should try to comment on other people's post, maybe then, they will give yours a look over. What goes around, comes around, they say.

Meanwhile, I have some critique for you. I suppose the setting for your novel is 21st century Nigeria. If that's the case, a couple of things are missing or incompatible in this chapter.

1. Most university graduate are able to afford some form of mobile phones, especially those traveling to Lagos, or already in Lagos. Glady's should be no exception. If she has one, then why is she not using it.

2. Lets assume she doesn't have one. Then she should be calling her aunty, not reading some maps.

3. Her rich aunt should also have a mobile phone. I don't subscribe to the idea that she drew a map which she manage to send to gladys.

4. Did you say she wrote to Gladys? No! I'm not buying that. She'll probably call or send an email. Rich people hardly write! 

5. Finally, for someone who you claimed is a graduate, and who also claimed she can take care of herself - a big girl - Gladys was portrayed as naive, dump, foolish, stupid, and with very low self esteem. This is evident in her getting into a strange car, driven by an unfriendly, arrogant but handsome guy, without much coercion . And what's more, she still admire the interior of the car, not minding if she is been kidnapped!!

Hmmmn, I'm not trying to discourage you, but I would like you to be more consistent with the characterization, and human behaviour.

Carry on.

Thanks emeka gh

I can see where you're coming from. I am a newbie but I will take your advice and go around to see what others are doing.

To your comments. Actually this story was written with late 20th century Nigeria timing. I am trying to update so thanks for pointing out some inconsistencies. Gladys is not a big girl, just a graduate from a poor background. She has not visited Lagos before but I don't think that makes her foolish and stupid. Otherwise, you got the character right; she is naive and trusting, with low self esteem. Maybe I'll tighten her act too.

Thanks again for reading and the great comments.

lol Sisi Jinx, it's not about me. The writer has clarified that the setting is 20th century Nigeria. Hence most of the issues I raise may not apply.
However the core of those issues remains the facts that in 21st century Nigeria, one of the parties will have a mobile phone - at least the rich aunty. The lady, Gladys, can call her from a call/business center scattered all over Lagos.  Hence, gladys may not need to read a map, she will probably call and ask for direction or describe where she is.

Anyway, like I said the writer has clarified, there is no point over flogging the matter. And I'm glad she saw my points.

Peace.

Tee hee hee. . .came on too strong, didn't I?

Gah! I have to work on that. LOL.

Anyhoo, not trying to beat a dead horse or flog one to death but 'twas William Blake who said Invent your own mythology or be slave to another man’s.


@ Myne White
When is the next chapter?

CHAPTER TWO


A week after her arrival, Gladys was stretching out on the balcony in contentment as she breathed the fresh ocean breeze. Everything was going as smoothly as she had prayed. A knock sounded on her door and she went to open it. It was Bunmi the maid.

"Good evening, auntie", the girl greeted.

Gladys noticed that she was still stammering as she continued. "Madam wants to know when you will be down for dinner."

"I'll be down in thirty minutes."

"OK, auntie", the girl replied, and moved away.

About half and hour later, Gladys came downstairs and sat down at the dinner table with a resolute air. After this week in her aunt's house, she was determined to speak plainly. Her aunt's behaviour was so different from what she expected. She had been overcome by thoughts of what was behind the change, and looked up as the object of her thoughts came in.

"How was your day?" her aunt asked, sitting down at the head of the table.

"Very fine, auntie. I went to hand in an application early this morning, and I decided to do some sightseeing afterwards. You know this is my first time in Lagos." The last was meant as an innuendo, but it sailed over her aunt's head like water of the back of a duck.

"Oh really?" she murmured.

"Yes", Gladys replied. "You see, nobody had ever invited me here for holidays before."

Her aunt looked at her sharply and said stiffly, "Gladys, if there is something on your mind, please say it and stop beating around the bush. I am still your aunt, after all."

"Well, auntie", Gladys sighed, "there is something that I have been meaning to ask you."

Her aunt remained silent, so she bit the bullet.

"For someone who seemed not to know that her brother's family existed, your recent attitude towards me has been very confusing."

"You have to explain yourself more plainly, Gladys."

"Before now, I had only seen you three times in Enugu, and never in the last fifteen years since after my dad's burial. What is the problem? Do you have any issues with my mother? Did you oppose the marriage or what?"

"If that is what your mother told you, it is not true", her aunt protested.

"She never said anything on the subject, but I can't help making my own judgments. You are my father's only sister, yet you have not been as close as would be expected. We've never met your children; you hardly ever ask about our welfare nor invited us over for holidays. You’re wealthier, but have never helped my mum even in our time of need after our dad's death."

Her aunt who had put her cutlery down during the tirade now bowed her head. She should be ashamed of herself, Gladys thought, and she continued mercilessly with memories of the past washing over her. "Were you ashamed of your origins? Shamed that your brother was not as rich as you and your tycoon husband? Wanting to forget that you were ever poor?"

"Gladys, that's enough," her aunt chided.

"No, auntie. You said that I should say what's on my mind. I came here not sure how I would be received, so I find your kindness, your niceness, very confusing, "

"Gladys, listen. You are not a child anymore, so I'm not going to hide anything from you. The only reason it is possible for you to be here now is because I am a widow."

I just read a thread about people looking for manuscripts. Anyone interested?

Gladys was on the beach playing with the guy. She pushed him into the sea and ran off laughing. He came out of the water and pursued her till he caught up with her. Then he swung her up and around till she screamed with delight and joy.

"Gladys, Gladys!" The sound of her name wiped the dreamy smile off her face and she sprang out of bed. It was Friday afternoon, and she had been relaxing in the bedroom when her aunt’s loud call had jerked her out of her daydream. She left the room hurriedly to answer the call.

"What is it, auntie?" she asked as she entered the living room downstairs.

Her aunt was watching television but looked up when she walked in. "Sit down, Gladys. I want to ask you something." She gestured to the seat beside her. "Are you free this weekend?"

"Yes auntie. Is there anything you want me to do for you?"

"Not really, but I was hoping that we might be able to go for a dinner party together. I haven't really taken you out since you came, have I?"

"Er, " Gladys' thoughts wandered off at the thought of an outing as she was reminded of her daydream. She had wanted to go to the Bar Beach, but she hadn't gotten round to it. And it was strange that she should be dreaming of someone that she had not met. Gladys came back to the present to catch the tail end of her aunt's monologue, ", stop keeping you to myself."

"Sorry, auntie, my attention wandered for a moment."

Her aunt stopped talking, looked at her briefly and repeated. "A friend called and invited me for a dinner party yesterday, and it's for next week Saturday. I want to take you with me."

"A dinner party for your friend? Will there be young people there?"

"Oh, you're worried that you might stick out. Actually, it's in honour of her son who just returned from London after completing his doctorate. So I'm sure there'll be quite a few young people."

Gladys began thinking of what to wear. "Erm, " she murmured, "what is the dress code?"

"That wasn’t stated but it's at the Ocean View Restaurant, so probably classy." Her aunt continued. "Do you have anything suitable to wear?"

"I think I can go in one of my office suits."

"No, no, no,  those will not do at all." Seeing Gladys’s face turning stony, she soft-pedaled quickly. "I don't mean that the suits are not good enough; in fact, they suit you very well, and are very good for the office. But this party will need a different type of outfit."

Gladys relaxed and said, "Then I'll find something else to wear."

"My dear, haven't you got the message? I want us to go shopping!" her aunt announced.

"Auntie, I don't think I can afford to pay for a good dress right now."

"Don't worry Am I not your aunt?" Her aunt got up and adjusted her wrapper. "I love shopping and nothing will make me happier than paying for anything that you want. Go get ready."

"Thanks, auntie!" Gladys replied, jumping up and giving her aunt a big hug.

Her aunt smiled and hurried her on. "Go on, go on - it's not a problem.”

Gladys smiled and ran lightly upstairs.

**********

Edward arrived at the venue of the party with Ekene his friend. The celebrant was a classmate of Ekene, and also an acquaintance of his. He didn't like parties that much, especially those that had nothing to do with business. But he had thought that since the girl lived in V.I., there was a chance – however slight – that he might run into her there. He gave his bow-tie a final tug and moved into the crowd.

He scanned the crowd expertly, but his target was not present. His racing heart slowed down and he decided right there and then that if he didn’t see her in the next hour, he would leave the party.

"What is your pleasure, man? There are a lot of babes here, but I'm going to the bar first for some Dutch courage," Ekene said, laughing.

"I'll join you in a minute. Let me see if there might be some networking opportunities."

"How can you think business with all these beauties flitting around? And that babe…" His next question remained unfinished.

"Mr. Edward, good to see you here," it was Mr. Odusote.

Edward cursed inwardly as Ekene shook hands with the man and left them alone. Mr. Odusote was the last person he wished to see; the man had become a pest in his life.

"How is business going?" Mr. Odusote asked, backing Edward into a corner.

"Fine", Edward replied shortly. His eyes moved to the door and then they stopped still – so still that he didn't notice when his companion muttered angrily and stalked away.

**********

" Why are you late to my party, Isioma?"

"Sorry, Atinuke. There was some delay leaving the house. This is my niece, Gladys. She is now living with me." Her aunt hugged the hostess of the party.

"Hello dear, how are you?" the finely preserved older lady asked Gladys. Her face was a fixture on the tabloid pages as a doyen of fashion. In a society where a lot of women were judged on who their husbands were, Atinuke Johnson commanded respect for her business acumen in running several couture houses.

"I'm fine, thank you ma."

"I hope Lagos is treating you well. Are you just here on a holiday?"

"Actually, I'm looking for a job."

"Your aunt's connections will surely come in handy. But this is not the time for a business chat. Allow me to introduce you to some of the guests your age so that you can mingle." Taking her fingers in one hand and her aunt's in the other, they moved into the crowd, and as they did so, Gladys’ gaze lighted on a face and her heart skipped a beat – ‘her’ man was here.

It was almost thirty minutes later when Gladys heard the deep voice behind her. She continued listening to the chatter around her, and pretended that she wasn’t the one being addressed. She knew who it was, because their eyes had been meeting across the room for the past few minutes. She took a little time to compose herself to face him. But when he tapped her on the shoulder, the composure flew out of the window as an electric current ran through her body.

"Yes?" She finally turned towards him. As she looked at him, her heart leapt and she knew why she had been dreaming of him. She found herself irresistibly, uncontrollably drawn to him.

"Can I have this dance with you?" he asked, extending a hand.

"Sure." Gladys took the hand and they walked to the dance floor. The lyrics of the slow number, 'The day I fall in love” by Elton John echoed every feeling coursing through her body. As they moved close together to the beat of the music, she could feel that he was attracted to her too. 

"I know we've met before, but I don't know your name. I am Edward Bestman. Friends call me Edward." He smiled down at her.

"My name is Gladys Eborah", she replied smiling back at him.

"Gladys", he repeated, mouthing the word like sweet wine. "It's a very beautiful name, just like the owner. You're a very beautiful woman, Gladys."

She looked away as they continued to move to the music. "Thank you."

"I want us to be friends - close friends." He moved her even closer to his body so that it was hard to move away. But she didn’t want to, she liked how she was feeling. How was she going to play this one, hard to get? She kept quiet as the music came to an end.

Edward walked her out to the poolside and when they stopped, he asked, "So what do you say?"

"Let’s get to know each other first."

“I can be patient if you want.” Inside his heart was singing. She was a beautiful lady, and he was just the gentleman for her. Edward was no longer debating whether his heart was involved or not, everything was all jumbled up. It was a relief to know she was also interested and he waqs not fooling himself. He looked down at her again and smiled.

**********

Gladys rushed around the room getting ready for her date with Edward. He had asked her out on the night of the dinner party, and she had said yes. That night had been magical. Edward had been as attentive and courteous as she wanted, and the wonderful feeling of mutual attraction had made her feel tipsy. When she had finally left with her aunt, she felt as if she was floating on air. Even now, she waltzed round the room happily and was surprised when her door crashed open and Bunmi entered, her arms loaded with freshly washed and ironed clothes.

"Madam is calling you," she said, moving towards the wardrobe to hang up the clothes.

"Is there anyone with her?" Gladys asked, putting on her lipstick.

"Yes, there is a young man in the sitting room."

"Oh my God, I'm late," Gladys groaned out loud.

"I can help you get ready, auntie," Bunmi suggested helpfully.

"Thanks… please bring out those high-heeled black shoes and polish them for me."

She was ready in the next five minutes, and looked back at the smiling face of Bunmi with gratitude as she walked downstairs.

When Gladys entered the room, Edward stood up immediately and walked to her side.

"Hello, beautiful," he murmured, stopping up close with a big smile on his face.

"Hi, handsome," she whispered back, a smile budding on her face too.

"Shall we go?" he asked, extending an arm.

She took the arm, and then addressed her aunt. "We will be leaving now, auntie."

"Edward, please take care of her for me, OK? And don't be out too late."

"You don't have to worry about that, ma. She's in safe hands."

"Then have a nice time, my dears."

When they got outside, he settled her comfortably in the passenger seat of his car before he went over to his side, and they drove away.

**********

Seated in the cool interior of the car, Gladys thought about her conversation with Auntie Isioma about tonight’s date. Her aunt was characteristically nice though she warned her about the security situation in Lagos. She encouraged Gladys to really give Edward a chance but that one can never be too careful. Edward was an eligible bachelor but Gladys should watch out for playboy tendencies and play her cards right. She explained that she had married off three daughters of her own and knew that young girls had to pair up sooner or later.

Gladys had been silent but in her mind she ruminated whether marriage was what she expected from Edward. His wealth and status made her suspect his motives. She was happy to be courted by him but she wouldn’t end up in a convenient marriage like her aunt. She could only marry someone when she was sure they both loved each other.

When they got to the restaurant, he stepped quickly out of the car while she was still gathering her accessories and came to help her out. As they walked into the restaurant with her hand on his arm, she admired his gentlemanly courtesy. They were shown to their seats and after they had made their orders, they settled down to talk and know each other better.

"I am the only daughter of my parents with three younger brothers. Two are in the university while the youngest is still in secondary school." She smiled as she spoke of her family.

Edward smiled too, "I think your mum would’ve loved to have another beautiful daughter."

"Maybe" Gladys laughed as the waiter served their food. She ordered stewed fish with seasonal vegetables while Edward wanted fried rice with curried chicken.

When the waiter had gone after serving their bar choices, he asked, "So what of your parents?

Gladys sighed as she replied, "My dad is dead, "

"Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that."

"It's OK, it happened more than fifteen years ago during my first year in secondary school."

"How did your mum cope? Did she remarry?”

"No… I think she preferred to remain on her own and has been taking care of us since then."

"She must be quite a strong woman, "

"Oh she is!” Gladys cut in with a wide smile. "I respect her a lot for that."

"Your aunt must have helped out, she appears quite well off and a nice woman too."

Reluctant to expose her family secrets, Gladys simply smiled as she said, "Oh, she is. Most of it was my mum though, she is a very hardworking and enterprising woman."

"What does she do now?”

"She is a teacher but does some private business which by God's grace is thriving."

"Which business is that?

"She buys and sells textiles and jewelry for women. Sales are good but thank God I'm now through with my degree and she doesn't have to cater for me. Hopefully I will get a job soon and help with the others."

"Yes you mentioned you were looking for a job the other night. How's that going?"

"So far so good," Gladys replied. "Got some interviews lined up, tell me more about you."

He hedged, "I think you know pretty much anything of importance, I run a business here in Lagos."

"How about home life? Where did you grow up, parents? Are you the only child?”

"Oh that. I believe I'm from Rivers State though I grew up in an orphanage and foster homes in Kano. But why talk about such a depressing topic? My wealth and position make better copy." Edward smiled thinly at the surprise on his companion's face and continued. "Yes, I am chairman of Bestman Holdings, and own three houses here in Lagos, one in Abuja and one in Kano. That’s not all though, I'm a very wealthy man Gladys. What else do you want to know?”

If not for the bitter inflection in his voice, Gladys would have thought what an arrogant sod he was. His voice was literally dripping with acid at the end of that sentence.

"Let’s leave that to the columnists Edward, I was actually more curious about your background. What was your experience growing up in an orphanage? And, Kano is so far away, are you still in contact with them or any of your foster families?”

"The orphanage is still there, never visited and not planning to." He snapped at her before taking a deep swallow of his Chapman on the rocks.

She stared quietly at him but Ed could see the cogs turning in her head. Edward felt like kicking himself, he usually managed to avoid the topic of his upbringing with other girls by talking about his wealth. He preferred to gloss over it with most people, it was not their business. Now he found himself having to be more open and honest.

"I'm sorry Gladys, this is a very sensitive issue for me and talking about it throws me off balance. Can we talk about it some other time?”

Her heart melted in sympathy, "Of course." She was doubly happy because that meant they were going to see each other again . Edward was relieved and after their dinner was brought to the table, he launched into a series of anecdotes about his business that had her holding her sides in laughter. He was a very funny storyteller.

**********

awww,  i'm lovin' it

well. i find your new chapter 1 much remodelled than the very ist. it does feels like the beginning of something,a first draft. however i still think there are some things missing. i do hope u pick them up as u write. its your ist attempt at writing, right?

Gladys was lost in thought; it had been a full day. It was almost a year since she moved to Lagos and her life was wonderful. Just confirmed as a Sales Rep in the job she had gotten a few months after she arrived, she was really happy. The position was demanding but the large corporation paid very well. She was good friends with some girls from the office and always went out for lunch on the Island with Ola, her new best friend. Sometimes she had to restrain her fingers from giving her skin a pinch to wake herself from the dream.

Her romance with Edward also made her the envy of a lot of girls in Lagos who read of it on the pages of City People. They were together now for over seven months and as she was his partner at high profile occasions; their pictures were often in celebrity magazines. Those close to them spoke of the respect and courtesy with which he treated her and the amount of time they spent together. When in the country, he tried to bring her in to work and called at least once during the day. They had not been planning to meet up today but Edward texted to say his evening meeting was cancelled. He wanted to surprise her. A knock on her bedroom door drew her out of the reverie and she was informed that he was waiting downstairs.

"Where are we going to?” Gladys asked Edward as she got into the car.

"You'll know when we get there, it's a surprise." He turned to smile at her before driving off.

"Why won't you tell me now?”

"Not yet, wait till we get there. Or you can try guessing"

“Oh Edward, you know I don't like guessing games. This date itself is a surprise.”

He travelled abroad a lot so most of their dates were set in advance. After work, either alone or with friends, they usually found a quiet spot for some conversation topped with ice cream or drinks. Some dates were to her book club literary events or he introduced her to some out of the way place. Bukas, thrift shops and markets he had frequented as a student at the University of Lagos during his first years in the city. On Fridays, she freshened up in his office en suite bathroom before they headed out for a longer evening on the town. They managed some weekends together, usually at the Lekki beach, which he favored, or watching movies and sports on his big screen TV.

OK do you know what?”

"What is that?” Edward smoothly avoided another car.

"My boss wrote me a query yesterday. He says I nod off at my desk."

"So you are one of those people who sleep, " Edward drawled slitting his eyes.

"Of course not! I actually enjoy my duties?"

You do not sleep on the job?”

“No I do not.”

"Is that your final answer or do you want to phone a friend?” Edward deadpanned.

Gladys laughed easily. She could always count on having fun with Edward though there were some major hiccups they were still tackling. She was a dedicated Christian while Edward only attended church occasionally and was often jealous of the time they could be spending together. He equally disagreed fiercely with her giving to the church instead of like him, donating to charities. She felt she could split her giving several ways but he insisted that church administration chopped into what deserving organizations could be getting. If they weren’t embezzled first, how much hands-on good did churches do, he queried? Gladys had ended that argument by saying she would think about it. Differing Christian principles were also at the back of their disagreement on whether or when to have sex. But now wasn’t the time to think about all that, she’ll have her fun tonight.

"Actually, I was only trying to pull your legs. It was not a query I received."

"Really? Well my legs are quite busy now so please stop pulling them." They laughed together at that and then he asked, "But what did you receive?”

"That's the deal. I won't tell you unless you tell me where we're headed. Edward please, "

He looked at her and laughed. "So you thought to make a stand? I didn’t think so.”

She laughed with him but worried that he didn’t respect her wishes. At the beginning of their relationship she had insisted that she didn't want him to buy her anything. However, after his last trip to the States, he gave her an expensive gold link watch plus a designer bottle of perfume. It started with cheap ceramic figurines, which he bought her at Balogun Market. When she accepted those, he started showering her with gifts. There was the evening gown he had presented her with when he asked her to accompany him to the company’s end of year party. Then the matching leather shoe and handbag set he purchased from Italy for her birthday which she had graciously accepted. Her aunt wasn’t very happy and warned of the danger of accepting expensive gifts from men particularly when you couldn't reciprocate. Gladys knew that but couldn’t see how to explain to Edward without sounding fake or churlish.

She didn’t have long to wonder if this was another incident of him not taking her serious because they soon arrived at a restaurant. Gladys was surprised to see her friend Ola walking up to the car. She opened the door and stepped out.

"What a coincidence!” She said as her friend drew level with her.

"I don't think it is," Ola said pointing at the group near the doors of the building.

Gladys looked up and gasped; she looked over to Edward who had just finished locking up the car. "Congratulations." He smiled innocently at her and turned to Ola, "Allow me to use this opportunity to congratulate you on your confirmation too."

"How did you know?” Ola asked. Gladys was speechless, mouth open and eyes set on Edward.

"Let’s just say I have an ear to the ground." Edward replied striding around the car to Gladys side. He took her arm and gave her a brief kiss.

"So this is your surprise?”

"Yes, a congratulatory party. Do you still not like surprises?”

“I love this one," she answered giving him a big hug.

Ola laughed at them. "This was exactly what Azeez did to me when we arrived," she said to Gladys as they walked across the parking lot. "I told him about the confirmation just this evening but I can tell you that this is not a couple of hours work."

"The guys really did a good work, and secretly too!” Gladys agreed.

"Three of our colleagues in the office are here with their partners and your guess is as good as mine which of them planned this." Ola said moving over to her fiance's side.

Gladys had her own suspicions but she just smiled and as they joined the noisy set, she good-naturedly accepted the greetings of her friends with Edward by her side. The confirmation was great news but had got her worrying about her future. She was in love with Edward yet while he was the perfect partner, he had never once said he loved her or made any comments to suggest anything more permanent for their relationship.



**********

Edward was lying down on a large and fluffy towel on the beach with his eyes closed. It was a very hot day and Gladys was inside the water frolicking. She had invited him in several times since they arrived but he had demurred. His mind wandered to when he registered his first company at twenty-five, he promised himself two things within ten years. He had recently acquired majority shares in a company quoted on the stock exchange with enough investments that he could retire now and never have to worry. He was now thirty-six and still not married, this was the other goal which he was yet to achieve. He could blame the delay on the last girl he dated who had gone and gotten herself pregnant by another man. Gladys really came into his life at an opportune time, he thought as he drifted off to sleep.

It was a recurring dream he had been having for a while now. He was the best man at a wedding and then suddenly he was the groom. In some episodes, his bride never could get to him no matter how long he waited with the priest. Other times he couldn't find the edges of the veil to raise it up. He usually woke up frustrated. Today however, it was different. Without any effort, she got to him and on raising the veil; he saw the smiling face of Gladys.

"Edward," she whispered softly, "Oh, you’re sleeping." Edward opened his eyes at the light touch on his chest to behold the same face.

"You are awake, come and see." Gladys got to her feet and turned to go but he held onto one of her ankles. She smiled down at him. "Come on, sleepyhead, let's go."

"You are so beautiful, Gladys," he said throatily.

"I've heard that too many times so come on, let’s see something new." She dragged him up and towed him towards the water. It was a collection of pretty shells buried at the edge of the water.

"I can't get them out, please help me." She muttered and knelt facing the sea.

Edward knelt down opposite her and started digging out the shells. "You weren't able to dig these out?” He easily pulled out the shells but his mocking smile changed to a grimace as a wave washed over him. The expression on Gladys face and the distance between them told him it had been intentional. She was a few paces away and now she ran off laughing cheekily.

Edward gave merry chase, the shells forgotten. When he caught up with her and turned her around, he recalled the wedding dream. A line, “Out of my dreams and into my life", from one of his favorite songs by Michael Bolton came to mind. Maybe Gladys was the one for him.

Seeing that he was taking her towards the water, she began to squirm, "I didn't do anything, "

"You certainly did and you have to pay," he retorted moving closer still to the edge of the sea. Gladys closed her eyes probably thinking she’ll be dunked in the water but Edward set her down gently. She opened her eyes and asked. "Is that all?”

"There is only one way for you to pay, a long way."

"Do you want a pound of flesh?”

"I want to marry you."

**********

Gladys was lost in thought; it had been a full day. It was almost a year since she moved to Lagos and her life was wonderful. Just confirmed as a Sales Rep in the job she had gotten a few months after she arrived, she was really happy. The position was demanding but the large corporation paid very well. She was good friends with some girls from the office and always went out for lunch on the Island with Ola, her new best friend. Sometimes she had to restrain her fingers from giving her skin a pinch to wake herself from the dream.

Her romance with Edward also made her the envy of a lot of girls in Lagos who read of it on the pages of City People. They were together now for over seven months and as she was his partner at high profile occasions; their pictures were often in celebrity magazines. Those close to them spoke of the respect and courtesy with which he treated her and the amount of time they spent together. When in the country, he tried to bring her in to work and called at least once during the day. They had not been planning to meet up today but Edward texted to say his evening meeting was cancelled. He wanted to surprise her. A knock on her bedroom door drew her out of the reverie and she was informed that he was waiting downstairs.

"Where are we going to?” Gladys asked Edward as she got into the car.

"You'll know when we get there, it's a surprise." He turned to smile at her before driving off.

"Why won't you tell me now?”

"Not yet, wait till we get there. Or you can try guessing"

“Oh Edward, you know I don't like guessing games. This date itself is a surprise.”

He travelled abroad a lot so most of their dates were set in advance. After work, either alone or with friends, they usually found a quiet spot for some conversation topped with ice cream or drinks. Some dates were to her book club literary events or he introduced her to some out of the way place. Bukas, thrift shops and markets he had frequented as a student at the University of Lagos during his first years in the city. On Fridays, she freshened up in his office en suite bathroom before they headed out for a longer evening on the town. They managed some weekends together, usually at the Lekki beach, which he favored, or watching movies and sports on his big screen TV.

OK do you know what?”

"What is that?” Edward smoothly avoided another car.

"My boss wrote me a query yesterday. He says I nod off at my desk."

"So you are one of those people who sleep, " Edward drawled slitting his eyes.

"Of course not! I actually enjoy my duties?"

You do not sleep on the job?”

“No I do not.”

"Is that your final answer or do you want to phone a friend?” Edward deadpanned.

Gladys laughed easily. She could always count on having fun with Edward though there were some major hiccups they were still tackling. She was a dedicated Christian while Edward only attended church occasionally and was often jealous of the time they could be spending together. He equally disagreed fiercely with her giving to the church instead of like him, donating to charities. She felt she could split her giving several ways but he insisted that church administration chopped into what deserving organizations could be getting. If they weren’t embezzled first, how much hands-on good did churches do, he queried? Gladys had ended that argument by saying she would think about it. Differing Christian principles were also at the back of their disagreement on whether or when to have sex. But now wasn’t the time to think about all that, she’ll have her fun tonight.

"Actually, I was only trying to pull your legs. It was not a query I received."

"Really? Well my legs are quite busy now so please stop pulling them." They laughed together at that and then he asked, "But what did you receive?”

"That's the deal. I won't tell you unless you tell me where we're headed. Edward please, "

He looked at her and laughed. "So you thought to make a stand? I didn’t think so.”

She laughed with him but worried that he didn’t respect her wishes. At the beginning of their relationship she had insisted that she didn't want him to buy her anything. However, after his last trip to the States, he gave her an expensive gold link watch plus a designer bottle of perfume. It started with cheap ceramic figurines, which he bought her at Balogun Market. When she accepted those, he started showering her with gifts. There was the evening gown he had presented her with when he asked her to accompany him to the company’s end of year party. Then the matching leather shoe and handbag set he purchased from Italy for her birthday which she had graciously accepted. Her aunt wasn’t very happy and warned of the danger of accepting expensive gifts from men particularly when you couldn't reciprocate. Gladys knew that but couldn’t see how to explain to Edward without sounding fake or churlish.

She didn’t have long to wonder if this was another incident of him not taking her serious because they soon arrived at a restaurant. Gladys was surprised to see her friend Ola walking up to the car. She opened the door and stepped out.

"What a coincidence!” She said as her friend drew level with her.

"I don't think it is," Ola said pointing at the group near the doors of the building.

Gladys looked up and gasped; she looked over to Edward who had just finished locking up the car. "Congratulations." He smiled innocently at her and turned to Ola, "Allow me to use this opportunity to congratulate you on your confirmation too."

"How did you know?” Ola asked. Gladys was speechless, mouth open and eyes set on Edward.

"Let’s just say I have an ear to the ground." Edward replied striding around the car to Gladys side. He took her arm and gave her a brief kiss.

"So this is your surprise?”

"Yes, a congratulatory party. Do you still not like surprises?”

“I love this one," she answered giving him a big hug.

Ola laughed at them. "This was exactly what Azeez did to me when we arrived," she said to Gladys as they walked across the parking lot. "I told him about the confirmation just this evening but I can tell you that this is not a couple of hours work."

"The guys really did a good work, and secretly too!” Gladys agreed.

"Three of our colleagues in the office are here with their partners and your guess is as good as mine which of them planned this." Ola said moving over to her fiance's side.

Gladys had her own suspicions but she just smiled and as they joined the noisy set, she good-naturedly accepted the greetings of her friends with Edward by her side. The confirmation was great news but had got her worrying about her future. She was in love with Edward yet while he was the perfect partner, he had never once said he loved her or made any comments to suggest anything more permanent for their relationship.



**********

Edward was lying down on a large and fluffy towel on the beach with his eyes closed. It was a very hot day and Gladys was inside the water frolicking. She had invited him in several times since they arrived but he had demurred. His mind wandered to when he registered his first company at twenty-five, he promised himself two things within ten years. He had recently acquired majority shares in a company quoted on the stock exchange with enough investments that he could retire now and never have to worry. He was now thirty-six and still not married, this was the other goal which he was yet to achieve. He could blame the delay on the last girl he dated who had gone and gotten herself pregnant by another man. Gladys really came into his life at an opportune time, he thought as he drifted off to sleep.

It was a recurring dream he had been having for a while now. He was the best man at a wedding and then suddenly he was the groom. In some episodes, his bride never could get to him no matter how long he waited with the priest. Other times he couldn't find the edges of the veil to raise it up. He usually woke up frustrated. Today however, it was different. Without any effort, she got to him and on raising the veil; he saw the smiling face of Gladys.

"Edward," she whispered softly, "Oh, you’re sleeping." Edward opened his eyes at the light touch on his chest to behold the same face.

"You are awake, come and see." Gladys got to her feet and turned to go but he held onto one of her ankles. She smiled down at him. "Come on, sleepyhead, let's go."

"You are so beautiful, Gladys," he said throatily.

"I've heard that too many times so come on, let’s see something new." She dragged him up and towed him towards the water. It was a collection of pretty shells buried at the edge of the water.

"I can't get them out, please help me." She muttered and knelt facing the sea.

Edward knelt down opposite her and started digging out the shells. "You weren't able to dig these out?” He easily pulled out the shells but his mocking smile changed to a grimace as a wave washed over him. The expression on Gladys face and the distance between them told him it had been intentional. She was a few paces away and now she ran off laughing cheekily.

Edward gave merry chase, the shells forgotten. When he caught up with her and turned her around, he recalled the wedding dream. A line, “Out of my dreams and into my life", from one of his favorite songs by Michael Bolton came to mind. Maybe Gladys was the one for him.

Seeing that he was taking her towards the water, she began to squirm, "I didn't do anything, "

"You certainly did and you have to pay," he retorted moving closer still to the edge of the sea. Gladys closed her eyes probably thinking she’ll be dunked in the water but Edward set her down gently. She opened her eyes and asked. "Is that all?”

"There is only one way for you to pay, a long way."

"Do you want a pound of flesh?”

"I want to marry you."

**********

I have been trying to put up more posts of the book and it keeps diappearing. Please what's going on?

So far so good Myne.

I notice however, that you are churning out quite a lot of character - Atinuke, Ekene, Odusote, Bunmi, well if you can manage them, all well and good.
The relationship between Gladys and Edward is moving in my opinion rather fast. I hope they can both cope. I foresee a whirlwind!
Anyway, you are the one with the imagination.

Carry on.

Gladys was lost in thought; it had been a full day. It was almost a year since she moved to Lagos and her life was wonderful. Just confirmed as a Sales Rep in the job she had gotten a few months after she arrived, she was really happy. The position was demanding but the large corporation paid very well. She was good friends with some girls from the office and always went out for lunch on the Island with Ola, her new best friend. Sometimes she had to restrain her fingers from giving her skin a pinch to wake herself from the dream.

Her romance with Edward also made her the envy of a lot of girls in Lagos who read of it on the pages of City People. They were together now for over seven months and as she was his partner at high profile occasions; their pictures were often in celebrity magazines. Those close to them spoke of the respect and courtesy with which he treated her and the amount of time they spent together. When in the country, he tried to bring her in to work and called at least once during the day. They had not been planning to meet up today but Edward texted to say his evening meeting was cancelled. He wanted to surprise her. A knock on her bedroom door drew her out of the reverie and she was informed that he was waiting downstairs.

"Where are we going to?” Gladys asked Edward as she got into the car.

"You'll know when we get there, it's a surprise." He turned to smile at her before driving off.

"Why won't you tell me now?”

"Not yet, wait till we get there. Or you can try guessing"

“Oh Edward, you know I don't like guessing games. This date itself is a surprise.”

He travelled abroad a lot so most of their dates were set in advance. After work, either alone or with friends, they usually found a quiet spot for some conversation topped with ice cream or drinks. Some dates were to her book club literary events or he introduced her to some out of the way place. Bukas, thrift shops and markets he had frequented as a student at the University of Lagos during his first years in the city. On Fridays, she freshened up in his office en suite bathroom before they headed out for a longer evening on the town. They managed some weekends together, usually at the Lekki beach, which he favored, or watching movies and sports on his big screen TV.

OK do you know what?”

"What is that?” Edward smoothly avoided another car.

"My boss wrote me a query yesterday. He says I nod off at my desk."

"So you are one of those people who sleep, " Edward drawled slitting his eyes.

"Of course not! I actually enjoy my duties?"

You do not sleep on the job?”

“No I do not.”

"Is that your final answer or do you want to phone a friend?” Edward deadpanned.

Gladys laughed easily. She could always count on having fun with Edward though there were some major hiccups they were still tackling. She was a dedicated Christian while Edward only attended church occasionally and was often jealous of the time they could be spending together. He equally disagreed fiercely with her giving to the church instead of like him, donating to charities. She felt she could split her giving several ways but he insisted that church administration chopped into what deserving organizations could be getting. If they weren’t embezzled first, how much hands-on good did churches do, he queried? Gladys had ended that argument by saying she would think about it. Differing Christian principles were also at the back of their disagreement on whether or when to have sex. But now wasn’t the time to think about all that, she’ll have her fun tonight.

"Actually, I was only trying to pull your legs. It was not a query I received."

"Really? Well my legs are quite busy now so please stop pulling them." They laughed together at that and then he asked, "But what did you receive?”

"That's the deal. I won't tell you unless you tell me where we're headed. Edward please, "

He looked at her and laughed. "So you thought to make a stand? I didn’t think so.”

She laughed with him but worried that he didn’t respect her wishes. At the beginning of their relationship she had insisted that she didn't want him to buy her anything. However, after his last trip to the States, he gave her an expensive gold link watch plus a designer bottle of perfume. It started with cheap ceramic figurines, which he bought her at Balogun Market. When she accepted those, he started showering her with gifts. There was the evening gown he had presented her with when he asked her to accompany him to the company’s end of year party. Then the matching leather shoe and handbag set he purchased from Italy for her birthday which she had graciously accepted. Her aunt wasn’t very happy and warned of the danger of accepting expensive gifts from men particularly when you couldn't reciprocate. Gladys knew that but couldn’t see how to explain to Edward without sounding fake or churlish.

She didn’t have long to wonder if this was another incident of him not taking her serious because they soon arrived at a restaurant. Gladys was surprised to see her friend Ola walking up to the car. She opened the door and stepped out.

"What a coincidence!” She said as her friend drew level with her.

"I don't think it is," Ola said pointing at the group near the doors of the building.

Gladys looked up and gasped; she looked over to Edward who had just finished locking up the car. "Congratulations." He smiled innocently at her and turned to Ola, "Allow me to use this opportunity to congratulate you on your confirmation too."

"How did you know?” Ola asked. Gladys was speechless, mouth open and eyes set on Edward.

"Let’s just say I have an ear to the ground." Edward replied striding around the car to Gladys side. He took her arm and gave her a brief kiss.

"So this is your surprise?”

"Yes, a congratulatory party. Do you still not like surprises?”

“I love this one," she answered giving him a big hug.

Ola laughed at them. "This was exactly what Azeez did to me when we arrived," she said to Gladys as they walked across the parking lot. "I told him about the confirmation just this evening but I can tell you that this is not a couple of hours work."

"The guys really did a good work, and secretly too!” Gladys agreed.

"Three of our colleagues in the office are here with their partners and your guess is as good as mine which of them planned this." Ola said moving over to her fiance's side.

Gladys had her own suspicions but she just smiled and as they joined the noisy set, she good-naturedly accepted the greetings of her friends with Edward by her side. The confirmation was great news but had got her worrying about her future. She was in love with Edward yet while he was the perfect partner, he had never once said he loved her or made any comments to suggest anything more permanent for their relationship.

"Is that your final answer or do you want to phone a friend?" Lol, that was funny. Edward sounds like my kind of guy . Love the humour, Myne White. But is there a prob with this topic cos there's a mix-up with the last post. I had to go to your profile to find this. Anyhow, I'm keeping my eyes peeled for your next one!