Herbiedeen:
ahh, mogbe me? girl??
and they've turned me to she-boy las las

Lol, sorry, I thought it was Khriztarl who mentioned my moniker

Herbiedeen:

But we can disturb sha

Hahaha, what will I do with you, this girl!

jupitre:
Nice one culin..
How come you hoarded the story for so long..And now you're dropping them as often as you can

Thanks a lot. But I didn't hoard updates. I'm just super motivated to get this over with by August.

Khriztarl:
Culin. Me. President. Noise makers. Association. Lol. Chai.
Thanks for the honour. I appreciate alot.
jsyk, i'm following the lead of enirock and herbiedeen ni..

Always welcome.

millieademi:



Another August baby.

Whoop whoop!!

Thanks for the update, love.

Waiting for the award ceremony. Clash of the egos.

*Rings bell*

Fight two.

Yea mama! You're an August baby too?

It's going to be a "clash of the egos" indeed.
Much love Millie.

This chapter is dedicated to the president of the Noise makers association, Khriztarl .she be mentioning me upandan on people's thread. You're appreciated.

Chapter Twenty-21—And So Help me God

There is no greater glory than love, nor any great punishment than Jealousy. —Lope de Vega

Song—Tems— Try me

NATHAN

"What the!" Startled, Ivan swiftly grabbed something from the sofa and turned to the opening elevator, eyes wide and slender hands pointing straight ahead.

"Jesus Christ! Put that down!" I yelled, panic shooting up my spine at the sight of the gun. The gun didn't scare me—Father had ensured we legally owned and knew how to use one by seveenteen, it was the fact that Ivan was the one pointing it at me that bothered me.

She heaved a sigh of relief then dropped her hands to her side. "It's just you."

Who else would come up here!

I scowled at her as I stepped out the elevator and walked further into the penthouse. I'd always had the access codes to the last floor of the 18 story building—and they couldn't be changed without my permission, so yesterday when Mr Jacobs had mentioned she was resident here, I didn't bother to call-or search for another suite.

"Why do you even have that?" I asked, gesturing to the weapon. "Isn't that what Tony is here for?"

Her eyes moved from my hand to the packed trolley firmly held to the floor by its handle and then to the black leather briefcase on my other hand. "What are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same question. Where is he?"

"Who?"

"Your side piece bodyguard, who else?"

"I gave him the week off since I'll be cooped up here alone anyway."

I eyed her suspiciously and swept a glance through the great expanse of Brazilian Pecan wooden floor, cream plush furniture and rug, cream drapes beside large window frames with skyscrapers as backdrop. "You're all by yourself?" I exclaimed. "Then explain why you left home to stay here."

"You've been all by yourself too, having your bodyguard running errands for your little pregnant chic, there's no one scolding you for that."

"Ivan— I sent her a warning glare. Now was definitely not the time for sass.

"I just needed my space. Home has become even more unbearable with the constant bickering," she said, turning and throwing herself on the sofa.

"Did something happen?"

"Other than Mum inviting Ms Maria Ahmed over for a Sunday dinner that turned awkward? Nothing much."

"How do you mean?" I asked, Ms Maria's name piquing my interest. She'd become more than my father's secretary— and mine over nineteen years, but the rare Sunday dinner at the Adakole's home was sacred—a family-only affair. My sister, Monic, her husband and her two beautiful boys, then Kevin, Ivan and I. That's how it had always been. Family only.

"I wish I could explain. So for how long do you intend to say here?" She asked, changing the topic and folding her arms across her chest.

I glanced at her in surprise. "Madam, I oversee...and would soon own the building, I can stay for as long I want."

I dragged the trolley by its handle and proceeded to the master bedroom with her following few steps behind. Thankfully, it wasn't the one Ivan had occupied. She'd always been the 'small and cozy apartment' kind of lady anyway, the massive room would have been out of character. I placed the briefcase and trolley on the bed, carefully unpacking.

"The manager said you haven't been here since the two years you moved out."

"And so?"

"You just decided to take a vacation?"

I exhaled sharply, sitting on the bed. "Annabelle tried to kill herself then blame me for it."

"Oh!" She exclaimed, hands flying to her mouth.

"She'll be alright though. She's been giving the clear and will be leaving the hospital today." Her confused gaze held mine and I could tell she was wondering what that had to do with my presence. "She's moving into my house—" I checked my wristwatch. Great! Eleven am. I left early enough. "Like in an hour."

"Wow! You're running from a woman you're eventually going to marry?"

"There'll be no marriage if I'm pushed to murder her first," I spat.

"Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!" She exclaimed, raising both hands. "What more did she do to get you so riled up?"

****
"It doesn't make any sense!" Ivan said, shaking her head while she leaned against the door frame of the bedroom with ankles crossed. I'd settled in and narrated everything Annabelle had told me at the hospital.

"What? The fact that my family is in this deep mess because of me? It makes perfect sense," I replied, leaning against the dresser.

"It's such a petty reason to kick-start a sequence of unpleasant events, don't you think?" Absent minded, she said, "I reckon hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."

"See? Right there! That's the thing. I did no scorning. She wanted out. I let her go. Man's got no time for a woman's games."

"Yes. Just like you have no time for your side woman's."

"Enitan isn't—" I tried to protest.

"Then what is she to you? You need to figure out soon what is it you're doing here. You can't eat your cake and have it, else you have a runny stomach."

"Yes Ma!" I stood up, shaking my head in amusement. My twenty-two year old sister was beginning to sound like our big sister, Monic. I slipped my foot back into my Oxfords and fitted my phone into the back pocket of my Jeans. Luckily, I'd retrieved my main car from Shiro without any fuss.

"It still makes no sense!" She threw her hands in the air, clearly frustrated.

"It does. I told you already. Annabelle has always been—very sensitive."

"But dad has spent so much money trying to keep things balanced, keep government officials quiet... for years! Everything has remained stable. Why would things suddenly change because of a scorned lover." She raised a finger, as if realizing something. "And dad? The fact that he let those hooligans intimidate him. This is dad we're talking about here. The same man who dragged Futocorps to the ground because they filed that stupid construction litigation suit against him." Her eyes bulged out as she talked with her hands and walked closer to me.

"He dabbled in political affairs, Ivan. Made quite a few enemies. No matter how crushable Mr Martins and his family are, our company has generated lots of unwanted attention already."

"Have you seen the desperate look in his eyes since this began? Dad, I mean. It's like he'll go to any lengths to get this marriage done. He's not fighting it. It's almost like he knows it's hopeless.

"It is! And you're thinking too much into this."

"Maybe because the pieces are starting to fit."

"Ha! Ivan. I have no time for this." Or your theories. Ivan was the type that believed Illuminati existed and Beyonce was their leader. "Got to head back to Avalon. You'll be good on your own?"

"Been good for days."

"Ok," I nodded, walking back to the living area and towards the elevator.

"Hey."

"What!" I turned back to her with a 'just drop it already' glare.

She rolled her eyes then in a second, her expression turned to the one she always had whenever she wanted something—puppy eyes and pouted lips.

"So, Kev invited me to his work thing. He's been given the medal of Valor for his services in Chibok."

"Yeah, I heard about that. I'll be sure to call to congratulate him."

"The thing is I won't be able to make it. I'm still adjusting and don't think I'm ready to mingle yet."

"Why didn't you tell him then!"

"It will break him! I'm the only family member he trusted enough to invite. I'd ask mum but you know she wouldn't dare cross her husband about supporting Kev. Monic can't even leave her kids for an hour."

"Ivan!" I grunted. She didn't have to say it, I knew what she was asking.

"Please do this for him. It'll be great if he has family around."

"My weekend is fully booked."

"Please! Don't turn your back on him like dad did."

Emotional blackmail, always works!

"Fine!" I grunted. "I'll get the details when I return. Can I go now?"


***
Fridays used to be exciting.

TGIF.

Work, hangout and party with Patrick and some of the boys from the office. But as I sat at the outdoor restaurant for lunch, the day bore no semblance of excitement. Even the sunny weather reflected my agitated countenance.

Enitan hadn't called or returned my calls yet. Annabelle was in my apartment and announcing it to the whole world all over social media. I had to stand in for Ivan at Kevin's award night, not that I didn't want to. I loved Kevin, he was the Ideal big brother. But his kind—doctors saw my kind—businessmen as out of place and people who only showed up to display how much money they could spend...and in Kevin's words, "money they tried to use to buy the humanity their hearts can't give."

I munched on the Jollof rice, but my taste buds were totally useless, So I dropped the cash plus tips on the table and headed for my car. Sitting in the still parked car, I brought out my phone and redialled Enitan's Gynaecologist again, relieved that she answered this time.

"Hello, Nathan."

"Good day, Doctor."

"What a lovely surprise to hear from you too. Your mother and I spoke earlier this week."

Lovely suprise? I've been trying to reach you for two days now!

"Yeah, about that. I'm calling concerning Miss Alaide."

"Your mother's niece expecting the twin babies? What about her?"

"No, No." God! Was that the best lie my mother could up with? Enitan, her niece? "No doctor, she's not my cousin. I'd like to register as the father of her children and be kept in the loop."

Silence.

"Doctor?"

"I'm sorry, I'm beyond shocked. Just how are you the father?"

'Just how am I the father?' We had sex and she got pregnant!

"That's not a discussion we need to have. But I'd like to get fixed into Enitan's appointment—and also request a new meeting place for them."

"Now I'm even more confused."

"The niece thing was just a front, to keep the news away from the public!"

"I'm afraid there's been a mix-up, because Enitan already called yesterday to say the father of the children was ready to come in with her, I registered him in the files and I'm afraid it's not you. It's a Jameel something, Nenkat or so."

"Mm," I groaned inwardly. Could today get any worse! It wasn't enough to take him to her appointments, but to claim my children as his? If she wanted to spite me, she was totally succeeding.

"The only mix-up is that the mother of my kids is going through pregnancy stress." Or maybe going crazy. "Doctor, do let me know when is suitable for us to meet, our appointments need to be discreet as possible."

"I'm sorry but I'd have to discuss this with my patient first."

Mm! My lips pressed into a thin line.

God! I was loosing it.

I took the phone away from my ear, my teeth grinding so hard against each other.

In no time, I was driving to the beach house. I didn't want to put Everest in the same position I did at shiro so I didn't bother calling to ask of her whereabouts. Even if she wasn't home, I'd wait and put some senses into her head. And so help God that I don't lay my eyes on that doctor.


Authours Note: Another chapter down. I'm so determined to finish this story before my birthday (6th of August), so, I'll be dropping chapters as often as I can now.

This Chapter is dedicated to Humbleness You comments are encouraging and always a delight.

Chapter Twenty - ... And I'll Never Be


“Doctoring her seemed to her as absurd as putting together the pieces of a broken vase. Her heart was broken. Why would they try to cure her with pills and powders?"

Leo Tolstoy

Song- First Man by Camila Cabello


ENITAN

My heart thumped in my chest. God! Did he even know the implication of what he was asking-his girlfriend and family's reaction. Also, that would piss Nathan off and send him into a murderous rage.

"That's really sweet, J. But it's more complicated than it sounds. Also, Nathan and I talked-" Mentioning it was on the night we met, just outside Shiro would freak him out even more, so I left that detail out. “He’s willing to do all the dad stuff with me."

"But, in private."

"Yeah," I replied, my eyes falling to my hands on the table.

"I strongly belief in God's plan. I don't know why God let me find you again and at this exact time in your life."

My heart thumped even harder-like I was going into a cardiac arrest anytime soon. I'd imagined it in my head-wishful thinking-a happy distraction. But not Jameel himself saying it out loud.

'He's only being nice, he's a doctor after all. You're his responsibility.' I stayed up thinking, after I'd sent Nathan away that night. Maybe I'd said all those things to sound like I had my shit together-not to look totally helpless to Nathan. But what made me think a man as hot and sorted after like Jameel would want to be with a single mum like me. In the end, Nathan would have the better life and last laugh-or so I thought until thirty seconds ago when Jameel mentioned 'God's plan' and 'finding' me in the same sentence.

I wanted to ask about his girlfriend, or someone special to him. But that would make the air even more awkward. Did his decision have anything to do with his feelings or he saw me as a charity case? Did he mean marriage or just adopting my kids?

God, I had to stop over thinking...

"Uhm-"

"Don't give an answer yet. Take your time." He tapped my hands and laid back on his seat, signalling the young female waiter in a black apron over and saying something brief to her. His lips were moving but I couldn't pick out the words.

"Sorry, what?" I asked when I heard my name.

"So, what are the other thing that keep you awake at night?" He asked, casually like he hadn't just mentioned fathering my children few seconds ago.

"That's basically everything."

"Really?" He asked, a bit unsatisfied .

"Yeah. Why?"

"You're suffering from insomnia, Enitan. And it's not because you got hooked on the 'many drugs' you took at the hospital-neither is it as a result of all the things you just mentioned. You may be suffering from PTSD."

"Post traumatic stress disorder?" I tittered, my eyes bore into his, hoping to find hints of amusement in them. "No. I just told you all the reasons why I can't sleep," I replied when his humourless gaze met mine with the same intensity.

He raised his palms, gesturing me to listen. "That's not my field but, after surviving a scary accident like you did, you'd eventually need to talk to someone-most likely a doctor."

"No. Please, no more. I'm tired. The hospital has become a second home these past few months and it's overwhelming."


"I know. But sedatives are not the solution. We need to cut the problem from the root."

"How!" I asked, frustration sipping in.

"Why don't we talk about the accident?"

"There's nothing to talk about. I stepped into a malfunctioning elevator at Avalon HQ, it spiralled out of control, the rest is hazy."

"Is that all there is to say?"

"What else! Doctor?" I yelled, frustrated now.

"The fact that you almost died! And you can't talk about it. The panic you experienced that moment you thought you were going to loose your life-the fear of never seeing your family again-your life flashing before your eyes-the fear you experienced when you had to go though a corrective spinal cord surgery-the thoughts that you could have lost the use of your legs-the trauma doesn't just disappear after your body heals."

The waiter arrived with our food and I couldn't have being more thankful for the interruption.

"Ah, you're spilling real doctor shit here , J," I laughed, bubbling my head and rubbing my misty eyes with the back of my palms to avoid proving to him he was right-that he knew my plight even before I did. I sniffed hard to unclog my passageways and dug into the Yoghurt Parfait in front of me.

"I'm a real doctor, Miss, and I'm dead serious." He laid back on the chair again, opening the box of Pizza and placing a few slices on our plates.

"You know, back then when you knew I was right about something, you'd try to piss me off by ending the discussion with a silly joke," he said with a reminiscent smile.

"You remember?" I asked in disbelief.

"I do. And now isn't the time for it." His smile now replaced by the serious look he had on earlier. "It doesn't have to be me. But talk to someone about it-and soon."

I nodded, "thanks, Jameel."

You're like an angel sent to me in my darkest times, I completed in my mind.

After a moment of silent chewing from both of us, the smart wristwatch on his left wrist beeped and he exclaimed, "Wow! Where did all the time go?"

I slumped in my chair and relapsed into the mood I had on before he arrived. He noticed it and drew forward. "What is wrong?"

"I just need to find something to do with my life. Tanya is busy as a bee and you've practically being the only one I've been hanging with." I pouted. "I'm going to die of boredom!"

"Amazing!"

"Amazing?" I asked, arching a brow at him.

"Because I have an awesome distraction for you this Saturday," he said, grabbing the glass of lemonade and taking a swig.

"Yoga class for expectant mothers? No, thank you."

He laughed, choking on his drink but still laughing. "No!"

I sighed, relieved, "What then?"

"A gala."

"A gala?"

"Yup! The National Medical Association have this annual celebratory dinner to honour medical practitioners, partners and organizations in the country who've contributed to a healthier and better medical care."

"Ok? Sounds serious."

"It is. And you're coming with me."

"Whoa! Hold on. Have you seen how I look lately?"

"Like one who could get all the men in Lag tripping over themselves?"

"Stop with the flattering!" I slapped his hand.

"I'm not! You look perfect, miss Alaide."

"Thank you," I smiled, bending my head and fiddling with my dress.

"So, tomorrow and Friday long enough to get a dress-or do you need intervention."


"I'm good." It felt strange-exhilarating even. Jameel Nenkat, crush of the nurses and envy of all the male doctors in Midridge hospital wanted me to a come along to a work function. I'd never been to any of those. The last dinner I'd attended was college graduation dinner-which I'd dragged Tolani along as date. Not even one with Nathan as our relationship needed to stay low-key."

Nathan.

Why did I have to think about him now. I put on a wider smile to make sure the heaviness in my heart didn't reflect on my face.

***
"He's going to unleash hell if he finds out you're meeting with that man again," Everest said more than halfway into our ride back home.

I stopped scrolling through my Instagram feed and turned to him. "'That man,' is my doctor. And Nathan, is another woman's husband."

"Also the father of your children," he chipped in.

"So? It's not like I'm sleeping with the doctor," I shrugged.

I didn't realise the words would sound terribly awkward once they left my mouth-awkward for me at least. Everest's stoic face gave up nothing as his face remained straight on the road ahead.

Although he'd pretended to not have heard the conversation between Nathan and I two days ago in the car-he'd become oddly nicer-more sympathetic to me since then. Not saying much but at least the intensity of his frown had reduced. He'd stopped insisting I sat at the back seat of the car and threw in one or two chuckle or lip-twitch whenever I ranted about something or someone.

"Where are you from, Everest?" I asked, locking my phone and slightly turning my shoulders toward him.

"South."

Not giving up, I pressed on, "well, do you have any family? A wife maybe? "I smiled. "I've never seen you make any non-work-related phone calls and you don't talk much about yourself."

"Used to," he replied curtly, his Adam's apple bobbed from swallowing a lump.

"Oh," I blurted out, shocked at his reply.

Was this where I asked what happened or shut up?

"What happened?"

A flash of pain passed through his eyes and for the first time ever, I saw a trace of weakness-brokenness in him. The car accelerated and my breath caught in my throat. Turning forward, I grabbed onto the edge of my seat. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked," I apologized.

"Yeah."

An apologetic look crossed his face and I forgot the anger rising from the scare. Everest was never impulsive, he would never abandon caution. Whatever happened must have been terrible for him to react the way he did.

I unlocked my phone again as he took the road by the water that led up to the beach house.

My feed refreshed itself automatically and I hissed. But a blog post on the screen with upper case caption caught my attention.

'TOP MODEL AND FASHION DESIGNER, ANNABELLE SIMA MARTINS ANNOUNCES MOVING IN WITH BUSSINESS MOGUL FIANCÉ, NATHAN ADAKOLE.'

I stared harder at the caption. Maybe it wasn't my Nathan, but Annabelle and Nathan's pictures were in one grid of the photos attached while a video of her in Nathan's house-on his bed was in the other grid. My fingers, like a robot's, tapped the comments.

'Awwn! When the love is too strong and you can't wait to get married.'

'Couple goals.'

'God when!'

'Our babies. Can't wait for y'all to walk down the aisle.'

'Divorce won't be your portion IJN.'

The comments were endless.

Again, my breath caught in my throat and I couldn't swallow. The tears that stung my eyes and blurred my vision followed. I stared at the device lying on my hands, yet I could feel nothing.

The car came to a halt and I realized we'd arrived home.

"There's another set of wheel tracks leading to the compound. Stay in the car till I confirm they're that of Mrs Adakole Or Nathan," Everest said with a stern look.

I nodded absent minded, what was the big deal if another car drove in? Nathan was moving in with his wife already. He had this planned even while he tried to hold my hands two nights ago and lie to my face.

'I want to do this together,' he'd said.

Liar. Bloody liar.

'But he didn't say he was leaving her for you,' my subconscious chided.

I swallowed through an already clogged throat and wiped away the tears. Unlocking my phone again, I opened the text message app on my phone and tapped Jameel's number.

My fingers, on their own accord moved across the keyboard. Typing in the last word, I reread the text again.

'I don't need to take my time anymore. I accept.'

"There's no sign of a breaking in and the cameras don't show anyone around the property," Everest said when he returned to the car and unlocked it.

I nodded, throwing my phone into my purse and stepping out.

"Are you ok, Ma’am? My apologies about earlier-"

"I'm ok." I raised my hands in affirmation, walking past him and hurrying into the building.



A/N: Wow, two Chapters down. I hope you enjoy reading this episode as much as I did writing it. Please, pardon any error(s) you may have noticed, I'll fix them in the final draft.


Good morning and have a blessed Friday.

This Chapter is dedicated to Ann2012 You're a true gift and support system to writers here on Nairaland.

Chapter Nineteen - I'm not okay

I used to be fine in my loneliness
but something
or someone
snapped me out of it
and showed me company. What it’s like to feel at home,
and so the going on by myself part wasn’t as easy anymore.
Seasons happened and things got colder and harder and suddenly I found myself smoking circles in the air
by myself in the snow
and I was not okay.

Charlotte Eriksson; You're doing just fine.


Song- Not Okay by Kygo Ft Chelsea Cutler

ENITAN

"Sorry, Dad, but I can't make it home today," I said, pushing away the silk duvet and rolling the most part of my body that could to the edge of the bed. It was almost noon and I still hadn't left the bed-or closed my eyes. I'd tried to find sleep all night without any luck and spent most part thinking about Nathan's offer two days ago-maybe his apology was sincere and I could count on him. Maybe thinking of a future with Jameel so soon was just my selfish way of looking to repair my already damaged reputation in society.

"What is wrong?" He asked with concern in his voice. I placed the phone on speaker and pushed myself off the bed.

"Nothing!" I strode to the window and opened the large drapes, smiling at the breath-taking beach scenery, I could never get used to it

'Wait till your second week here.' Nathan's mum had said.

"I can't take such a long trip today," I continued, walking to the silver ornate rectangular mirror by the wall. I took in my reflection and snuggled my robe from the sheer horror; puffy eyes and a face as round as a football. My bump was only beginning to show, yet I felt like an extra large balloon on a stick. Damn you, Nathan. "I feel bloated. What is so important that you need to see me?"

He heaved a sigh of disappointment. "Maybe I'll feel less better by the weekend," I quickly put in. Truly, I did feel bloated and couldn't endure a drive from the Island to the mainland today but most importantly, I couldn't miss my lunch with Jameel. I needed to ask him face to face.

"I can't have your mother around till the weekend," he muttered.

"Have my mother around'?" I asked baffled.

He went quiet for a while then replied, "Yes. She's here and insists on seeing you."

"What?" My mouth fell open. Frustration quickly replaced my surprise. "Wait-you let her in the house!"

Who was she to come back to Lagos and make requests like nothing happened-after she'd sworn to never look back on our poor pathetic family-so she called it.


"She's in the restaurant-as a customer, we're dealing with low patronage already," he sighed, I could tell he was either scratching his beard or afro, a habit for when he was caught in a tight position. "I can't create a scene."

I lowered my head onto my hands. "After all this time-what does she want?"

"You should ask her in person."

"Dad, I'm not coming!"

"Look, your sister-in a foolish attempt to prove whatever point, may have bragged to your mother that you were pregnant for a billionaire," he enunciated the last word with disdain. "I guess she's here to confirm."

"Tolani!" I bit my thumb. What a silly thing to do. Little wonder she'd refused to come home from school, using project work as an excuse.

So what if our mum had left us to start a new family with someone richer, it didn't make this a competition. I'd warned her in the hospital after she'd fantasize all day about us joining the big leagues through my child, being a baby mama for a billionaire was nothing to brag with, especially when that billionaire was getting married to another woman in few weeks.

"Please, tell me she didn't mention Nathan Adakole's name to her," I asked with bated breath.

This was a pregnancy only few people could know about. Why did she have to get our mother involved. I would've been relieved if Tolani had announced it with a microphone in Oshodi market instead.

"If she did, your mother would be at Nathan's office right now demanding for grandma allowance." I laughed and shook my head. It was great that he found humour in this. I'd always prayed he moved on from the pitiable state she left him. His restaurant was still recovering from the divorce but his mind was healing and that was all that mattered.

"Come see her first, find out what she wants," he said, giving me a few minutes to reply. "Maybe she's here to offer moral support and be a mother to you during this challenging period of your life?" He chuckled.

I snorted and my face skewed in disgust. "Please!" I packed my hair into a bun and walked away from the mirror to search the closet for any dress that could cover the little bump.

"She won't leave my restaurant unless you come see her," he said in one last attempt.

"Then kick her out! She doesn't get to give ultimatums. Not after everything she's done to us." Finding a short free gown from the upper shelf, I tossed it onto the bed and knelt to select a slippers from the lower shelf.

"You know how stubborn that woman can be, please don't leave me to suffer this alone," he pleaded and I laughed lightly at his theatrics.

"Mr Steven Alaide, you got control of this," I emphasized on each word. "I promise to come see you-and with a new scrabble board whenever she returns to her husband and child."

He mumbled some incoherent words and a bitter goodbye then the line went dead.

I stepped into the bathroom and sat in the tub for a while, puffing out air and letting my worries take over a minute. I missed my old life. Sleep. Work. Long calls from the one person I cared most about. I let out an exasperated sigh and turned on the shower.

Everything will fall in place. Everything will fall in place.



***
"Jeez! I'm only five minutes late and you look this moody already?" I raised my head from my phone to find an exhausted looking Jameel giving a large closed-lip smile. The sleeves of his light blue checkered button down shirt were rolled to the elbow but the shirt still neatly tucked into his plain dark blue trousers.

When he called yesterday to ask if I could join him for lunch in the cafe close to the hospital he worked, I didn't hesitate-even though we'd only hung out two nights ago and Everest-after much persuasion-was driving me again, I needed this meeting for my sanity.

Although I'd never been to the cafe, I was thankful Jameel picked it. There was little activity and the air was thick with Vanilla scent. The small building with plush furniture and pastel colour schemes served both as a kitchen and a confectionery shop for mostly outdoor orders.

He flashed his perfectly arranged dentition and for some odd reason, it lifted my spirit. "Oh," I smiled, "this isn't you," I said pointing to my face.

"Ok." he pursed his lips and nodded. "I'm relieved. You good?" He asked, dropping his car keys, wallet and IPhone on the round wooden table before sitting.

"I can't sleep!" I groaned. "Please, prescribe something strong."

He tilted his head and looked at me with one squinted eye.

"A sleeping drug," I clarified.

"Yeah, I got you the first time." I folded my arms and waited for him to say when he would get it. "I just don't understand why."

"I just told you. It's all thanks to Zaron concealer I'm not looking like a vampire or Zombie," I said pointing both index fingers to my eyes.

My attempted joke fell flat on it's face as Jameel's expression remained impassive. "Listen. When I said you could count on me for anything, that didn't include me being your drug dealer."

"It's just a simple prescription pill," I shrugged.

"It's dangerous! You could get addicted and dependent for life." I looked into his eyes and they held so much seriousness-and concern. "Why don't we talk about what's really bothering you."

I buried my face in my palms. "I don't know. The fact that my dad may be ashamed and just accepting my child because he doesn't want to loose me like he lost my mother-or that society will never know who the father of my children is, therefore labelling me a LovePeddler who slept with too many men to know which one was responsible. I don't know."

"That's an absurd conclusion! I'm sure everyone knows you're far from being a whor-whatever." He waved dismissingly.

"Do they? Because this is Nigeria, where virginity is considered by many to be the utmost and maybe only trophy of a single woman, and one who, evidently, has lost it and worse, concieved is demonized."

He reached for my hands on the table. "If it's so important to you, I could be the father to your children. For society, I mean," he stuttered, "or whichever way you want."

adeboizy11:
@culin 'pepper body association' firstlady don't let it end in heart break na. ��� I heart heart breaks fa. Thanks for the dedication boo. Made me feel like someone values me.

You're valued.

Khriztarl:
Culin..
culllliiiiiiiiiiiiiin..
cullllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllin oooooooooooooo
Millieademi's looking for you.

*looks left and right, tip toes out of the room* Na beating Millie go give me if she catch me o.

millieademi:
******

Today's update.....


Comments please....

And by the way,who has seen Culin? Today is Sunday and I want to read me something nice before my battery's madness returns.

Mama o! I know you're sha stylishly scolding me but thanks for the shoutout . I'll drop two packages now.

Chapter Eighteen contd.

***
I silently watched her as she stared into empty space and ignored my presence. It didn't surprise me, I had a new penchant for pissing off the women in my life.

"You're going to have to talk to me sooner or later, you know that."

"Where's Ma?"

"I sent her home to rest."

"Why!" She asked. "We both know you don't want to be here."

"I'm not a monster!"

"Yea, right," she scoffed, "I don't need you to stay here to satisfy your conscience. I don't want your pity."

"Anna," I said perplexed. It had been a while since I called her that, she noticed too and stared at me like I'd grown horns. "I want to be here. Before any of—this, we were friends, and I cared."

She remained silent.

"Just why in God's name would you do this to yourself again?"

"Look at me," she said quietly, her head lolling and dull eyes meeting mine. I could tell she was struggling to keep her eyes open. "Former 'most beautiful girl Nigeria' and I can't even get the man I love to love me back," she dragged the words and let out a short laugh.

"What are you talking about? You broke up with me and made it clear you were done with feelings." This had nothing to do with feelings, this was about her family's greed.

"Why do you think I was part of the deal?" She asked.

"Let's see. Because your father wants his grandchildren to become heirs to the greatest establishment in Africa? Because it's the only way you can own four—percent shares at Avalon without drawing attention. You tell me."

"That's not true!" She sniffled. "It's because I still love you," she said in a quiet tone. "I wanted a breakup because I couldn't stand myself. I thought maybe if you left I wouldn't feel guilty about how I flipped on you some times or think you were with me out of pity."

"But you knew it wasn't out of pity! You knew I loved you."

"Did you? Because not long after our breakup you moved on to another woman like you'd been waiting for the glorious opportunity."

"Come on! Anna," I muttered. "Did you expect me to stick around and cling onto you like a suckling child?"

"But you promised!" She yelled. "You promised to never let me go even if I wanted. But when I broke up with you, you didn't fight it."

"Does it matter now? You have me right where you want. So why try to kill yourself and put the blame on me!" My voice grew louder than I projected. What else did she want from me?

"Do you know how frustrating it has been. Despite my efforts to make things work."

"It's not my wish that things play out like this. I love someone else now and you know it."

She wiped a strain tear from her eyes then put on a straight face. "Do you know the things I've done to get you back—the things I'll do to keep you?"

"You did nothing to get me back. You took advantage of my father's mistakes and laxity."

"Advantage?" She scoffed. "How do you think a so called whist blower appeared after all these years and claimed to have evidence of Avalon involvement in corruption?"

My shoulders unconsciously lifted from where it was bent towards her, I sat straight on the chair. My eyes squinted inquisitively at her while I shook my head. We knew it had to take someone high at the agency to know such documents even existed, but the Martins?

"It can't possibly be-" I laughed, hoping by some miracle her trash talk was the effect of the sleeping medication.

"I thought If he had something on you or your family, he could use it to pressure you and I'd still have the man I love. He accepted," she said, biting on her bottom lips. "I knew he wanted to get rid of me—the psychotic daughter," she laughed, "he wouldn't need to constantly buy medications worth hundreds of thousands of Naira or pay for therapy, and he'd gain more money. I didn't care because it was a win-win for me."

"Stop," I breathed. I feared the new surge of hatred boiling in my chest. I fear it was going to spill if she continued speaking.

"I changed my mind sometimes. But, he remained adamant to follow through. He said he found a way to shake the 'Almighty Williams Adakole' but I still couldn't believe it. It was just a floating idea until he told me there was another woman. I knew I had to act before I lost you forever,"

"So, the Independent Financial Crimes Agency suddenly ordering an investigation into Avalon construction and oil, over deals that happened in the past administration? That was all your doing?"

She shrugged, "Well, my father. I don't know how he did it but, he got your father really spooked and willing to compromise."

"Your father specifically targeted me, found dirt on my father—used his position as the IFCA chairman to blackmail my family! All because I didn't run back to your arms after you broke up with me?

"All because I love you!"

God! She was really sick and needed help.

"You said you were doing us a favour—" I said distant minded. "You have no idea what you've done. You pitched my father and I against each other!"

"I went overboard. But I want to make amends now." She held onto my hands and I was surprised at the strength."

"Make amends?" I pushed her hands off me and lurched off the settee. "He almost killed Enitan—my children too," my voice became a low whisper. I intertwined my hands to stop them from shaking.

"It was supposed to be a scare but you resisted for months, my father had to order an official investigation. I didn't know you were going to be such a hard head for her. God! What is with you Adakole's and baby mamas."

W-what did she mean by that? I was certainly the only Adakole with a child out of wedlock. My brother, Kelvin was way too busy with his medical profession to pay attention to any woman. Father had to hire private investigators to make sure he wasn't gay. Maybe the drugs had effect on her—made her tongue loosed. This part was certainly trash talk.

"You and your father threatened my father's freedom, our livelihood and legacy. Not that you'll understand, because all you do is make money off people you label corrupt." I ran both of my palms over my face. "But you don't get to make amends. You want love in return for destroying my life? It's never going to happen." I paced the room then turned back to her. "The pity you detest, is all you're going to get."

"Understand why I did it, please!" She sobbed.

"Your doctor and family think you'll become less suicidal if you move into my apartment,” I laughed bitterly. “Your driver can drop you off at my place after the doctor signs your release papers." I walked towards the door and opened it then turned back to her. "Apologise to your mum on my behalf. Tell her something urgent came up," I said before walking out of the room and slamming the door.

***
"Can the penthouse suite be ready for me by tomorrow?" I asked the Avalon homes manager on the phone as I walked out of the hospital building into the sunny car park. I'd spent my morning and afternoon for nothing.

"Unfortunately, sir, your sister—Miss Ivan is currently resident in the penthouse, but we can make arrangements for any of the other top notch suites in a short time, sir."

Leaving home to camp away in a hotel? It had to be because of that bodyguards of hers. Can't believe she was still sleeping with him after she found out he placed trackers on my car—and participated in Enitan's elevator accident.
I ran my palm across my face. The penthouse was part of the apartments under my management, which made it the best place to lay low without any attention from the press or my father. "There'll be no need for that. Thank you, Jack." I said and ended the call.



Author's Note : Hey guys, long time no post. Hope y'all good. This chapter is a bit legthy and kind off not sparking electricity (what does that even mean!), but vital to the plot, so... it also needs more editing and adjustment but that would be after the story is completed, so kindly bear with me. Thanks for your continuous support. This story is ending first week of August, so, brace yourselves for the end... heartbreaking end. Will post the next chapters in a bit.

This chapter is dedicated to Adeboizy11 . President of the 'pepper body association.'

Chapter Eighteen—Chickens come home to roost

"The past is never dead. It's not even past." — William Faulkner


Song— Stay by Zedd ft Alessia Cara


NATHAN

"Not again," I sighed, rising from my bed after Annabelle's father—Mr Martin's persistent calls had woken me up at five and alerted me of Annabelle's attempted suicide.

That explains the continual calls from her family yesterday. All the time I ignored, thinking it was wedding-plans related, she'd been in the hospital. I couldn't help the guilt that rose in my chest. What if she did it because of the way I'd been treating her. Lord knows it wasn't intentional. Lifting my head from my head and pushing myself off the bed, I quickly put on a T-shirt over the sweatpants I had on. With my car still at Shiro, I picked the key of the abandoned car in my garage—the one Ivan's boyfriend had transferred the trackers to and headed out.

****
The cool morning air and heavy smell of disinfectants had wiped every trace of sleep from my eyes by the time I walked into Annabelle's hospital room. The nagging headache from my drinking bout last night still there and I tried to keep my mind off Enitan or her date with the doctor—and the fact that she refused to change her mind about letting him into her life.

Mrs Amara Martin's bulky frame rested on the single armless settee in the middle of the room-beside the bed while her tired eyes stared at me without any expression. I knew she was angry that I ignored their calls and just showed up many hours after her daughter had tried to kill herself. But she could conceal her emotions, unlike her stout husband who's wicked grin was permanent on his obese face. Thankfully he was no where in sight. One Martins was more than enough for my hungover self to handle at six am.

"I'm sorry, I just heard. Yesterday was too much to handle—at the office," I blurted. "And I was too tired for my phone by the time I arrived home."

"Of course," she nodded with pursed lips while her large eyes scrutinized me from head to toe.

“What happened?" I asked, hoping to take her attention off me.

"Martha found her unconscious on her bedroom floor yesterday," she sighed, lazily standing up from the settee and walking to Annabelle's side. "Doctor said she overdosed on Morphine and we're lucky to have found her on time."

I pitied Martha, Annabelle's younger sister who had somehow become the older sister over years.

"But how? This wasn't supposed to happen again."

She'd been diagnosed of Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder years ago. She'd get overly excited and hopeful during her manic episodes, that. But during one of her depressive episodes, she tried to slit her wrist out of guilt for almost pushing me over the balcony of her house during an argument, that I couldn't handle. The doctors said things were going to get better with continuous medication and therapy.

"Well, her sister found untouched packs of Latuda and Valproate in her night stand drawers. Apparently she'd stopped taking her meds-" she sighed as she adjusted the pillow under Annabelle's sleeping head. "I guess she got overwhelmed with everything."

My heart fell, I knew how difficult the previous years were for her, her family, and me. My eyes travelled to Annabelle. Was I so terrible that she gave up trying. She wanted to get better—well enough to be in a perfect frame of mind for the press and glamour life.

"I'm so sorry," I whispered. Strolling to Mrs Martins side, I placed my palms lightly on her hands. "You should go home, have some rest and change of clothes, I'll stay here for a while."

She nodded weakly, kissing Annabelle on the head. She walked to the chair and picked up her scarf then turned back to me. "Please take care of her."

I nodded and she left the room, quietly closing the door behind her. I sent a quick text to Miss Maria to hold things down at Avalon while I stayed away.

Remembering the first phase of my plan to keep that opportunistic Jameel away from Enitan's life, I stepped out and called Dr Helena, Enitan's Gynaecologist to register as the babies' father and schedule our private appointments but she didn't pick up, I guess it was still too early for official calls.

Stepping back into the room, I dragged the settee across the tiled floor, closer to Annabelle's bed. Lowering onto the chair, I carefully lifted her hands and placed them in mine, silently praying I wasn't the reason why she tried to take her life. Hours of me guilt tripping and staying by her side went by, until an elderly doctor walked in.

He looked at me then back at the door. "Are you a relative?" He asked with furrowed brows, obviously surprised to find someone other than the Martins.

"Fiancé."

"Oh! The Fiancé." His hands dropped from where it was pointing at the door. "Sorry about that. Dr Noah," he said, stretching out his hand.

I gripped it in a firm handshake. "It's fine. How is her situation?"

"We’ve pumped her stomach and administered Nalaxone, but still had to place her on Diazepam so she could rest. The worst has passed and she'll be ready to go home by tomorrow."

I nodded. His frown and sceptical expression didn't reflect the good news he just passed. "But?" I urged.

"But I'm afraid for the future. She'll need lots of care and observation. Someone to keep an eye on her. Since you're her Fiancé, you're in the best position to do that."

"Okay?" I knew where this was headed, and it bothered me. "How?"

"I know it's out of tradition— and out of my place to ask, but as her doctor, it will be best if you two moved in together."

What the hell?

He must have noticed the dread on my face. "I can't mention how important this is," he continued immediately with a serious look on his face. "Being around her family hasn't helped much, so I believe love can save her."

'Love can save her'? What is this? Doctor Phil's counselling session? 'Are you even a real medical doctor?' I almost asked.

"Thanks, doctor, for your concern but I'd have to run this by her parents first."

"Oh, we spoke at length after she was brought in yesterday. They both agree it's the best step."

"I see," I smiled.

millieademi:
CCCCCCCUUUUUUULLLLLLLLIIIIIINNN!!!!!!

I hope it's this Sunday you were referring to.

Hiya by the way.

Hahahaha yes ma! I am coming. Editing and formatting. First update in few mins.

Which is best for publishing fiction?

Khriztarl:

lol. Ann2012, prudysara, adesina12, mhizv, enirock, preshbeauty, skubido, damselposh, culin, sochey, Kimberlywest, herbiedeen, okikioluwafemi, ujunwa14, embellished, onyinelle, tonyspecial, adekunlated, veenessha, humbleness and many others. We all sit together, (even though adesina12 is a rebel lol) welcome to the team.

Lol, I dey here since. If we sit together I don't want noise making o!

millieademi:
So with the prostration and the awesome update, I totally forgive you for starving us almost a month.

Thank you, love.

Nathan's a *pardon my French * dick. Selfish, self absorbed and unwilling to make sacrifices.

I'm definitely in support of her dating Jamal, though I know Eni only has eyes for Nathan. Eni rile him up enough to make him realise you're all he wants.

At this rate (of no updates) I'll permanently just lie on the floor, use me as your carpet o.

Still, thanks a lot Millie for your support.

Hey Darlings. Sorry about my silence. Thanks for asking really, my head want to burst. Make una no vex. Since this is the last act of the story, I wanted to have many chapters in hand before posting so I don't write myself into a corner and mess up the ending. But so much going on for me rn, life tire me mehn, so I've not been able to do as much as I'd have loved to. Not withstanding I've been able to write three not so perfect chapters during my time away. Working on the next two. So hopefully by next Sunday, I'll be posting all five chapters. I'm bad at promises but I promise this time. And it's going to be worth the wait. <3

Fannycfo:
Give up...?... No way!... Thanks so much for the update. We have your back, side and front.. :-

Mad o! thank you.

oyinella:
welcome back

Thanks oyin

Humbleness:
Thanks for the update. welcome back

Gracias!

THIS CHAPTER IS DEDICATED TO faithfuldon7 . You were the first to comment on this book and that comment made the difference. I don't know if you're still reading the story, but thank you!

Chapter Seveenteen - You moved on so fast

“Even a rock moves on.”
– Anthony Liccione

Song - Happier- By Ed Sheeran

NATHAN

After the glass deal signing with our Japanese partners earlier, I stayed back at Foxtrap to sort out important business with my friend and chief Engineer of the project, Patrick, and to finish up paper works for the commencement of the project. Halfway through my work, the door clicked open to reveal my mum standing in a white plain trousers, coffee cashmere top and loafers, I could tell she came directly from her office at Avalon.

"Mum?" I couldn't stop my face from contorting into lines of shock. Even though she'd always been supportive of my business, she'd never visited me at Foxtrap. "This is a surprise."

She rolled her eyes. "Nice to see you too-and congratulations on the deal," she said as she walked in, looking around the office and subtly nodding in approval. She settled in one of the seats opposite of me. Clearing her voice, she dropped her handbag on my desk and put on a serious look.

I eyed her suspiciously, silently hoping she wasn't here for a Williams Agaba Adakole related issue.

"Don't you think it's better you corresponded with doctor Helena directly?" she asked, folding both arms across her chest.

"Great idea! Mum! Let's give desperate bloggers one more thing to talk about." I tapped the butt of my pen on the desk.

"Oh, please! You can trust Doctor Helena. She's been our family's gynaecologist for three decades now," she sighed, "Look, there are things better heard first-hand."

"Is there a problem with the baby?" My heart ceased beating but then she put on a teasing smile and I instinctively relaxed on my chair.

"No. But she called, said whatever baby plans you were making should be for two." She looked at me intensely, as if weighing my reaction.

My heart picked up it's pace. What was she implying? "T-twins?"

"Yes! This is my point!" She flung her hands dramatically the air. "You should be announcing this news to me, not the other way around."

The space in my chest became too small to contain the million emotions twirling inside. Speechless, I nodded repeatedly. She continued speaking but I no longer picked up her words because I was already on my feet, shoving my MacBook, unfinished paper work and phones into my briefcase.

"Thanks, mum. Enitan and I have to talk about this." I had to see the woman bringing two of my babies into the world-and maybe hug her, and despite our situation, celebrate with a dinner like two normal people expecting the most wonderful blessings. I left the office barely saying a proper goodbye to my mum.

"We're fucking having a set of twins and she doesn't see the need to call me?" I groaned, exiting the elevator and matching to the executives' car lot. I hopped into my car and strapped my seatbelt, I zoomed off.

***
The sun was already setting when I arrived at the beach house. I stayed back in the car when I noticed the black SUV I'd given Enitan wasn't in the driveway, but Everest's grey Lexus ES was parked at the side of the building.

I waited, hoping she'd be back soon. The evening grew darker every time I glanced out of the car. Fist to my mouth and elbow resting on the window, I stared at the time display of the car. Seven P.M and they weren't back.

My impatience and curiosity got the best of me as I called her, but she it kept going straight to voicemail. I called Everest next. "Is there a problem?" I asked, immediately he answered the phone.

"No, sir."

"Then do you mind telling me where Enitan is at this time and why she isn't answering her phone?"

"She's uhm-" he cleared his throat, "meeting up with a friend."

"Tanya?"

"No, sir. Janice or something."

Janice? Enitan had no Janice friend. She had no female friend other than Tanya. She only met up with a few colleagues from work on special occasions. Unless, she was already celebrating the news of the twins. But why celebrate that alone with a janice I never heard of.

"So where is this place? I'd come get her and you can have the rest of the evening off."

"You need not worry. I'll have her back in no time."

"I'm not worried, I just want to surprise her."

After much hesitation, he spoke, "location is Shiro."

"Ok, I'm on my way." I didn't mind driving around in a traffic laden Lagos at seven P.M in a work suit, tired and hungry. I was having two babies and would drive across all of Nigeria to see their mother.

****
I arrived Shiro at eight and thankfully, found a suitable space to park. Carrying my briefcase and phone. I spotted the SUV and walked up to it. knocking on the tinted windshield, Everest unlocked the car and I stepped into the back seat.

"You're good?"

"Great," he answered with a nod.

Almost two hours of waiting and watching different people exit the front entrance without any sign of her. It took my self control not to match in and bring her out myself. A pregnant woman is supposed to be resting at this time, not hanging out with a random lady. My surprise celebratory dinner wasn't going to be possible anymore, but I needed to stay back to scold her - then hug her. Continuous calls from Annabelle and her mother didn't make the waiting process any easier. I switched off the phone and raised my head up only to meet Everest's gaze focused intently on the entrance of the restaurant.

My gaze followed his, then my eyes caught her figure, in a short gown and heels, strutting out of the restaurant with a man. An oddly familiar man. Thanks to outdoor lighting of the restaurant, I made out his features to be the doctor from the hospital, Jameel. My fist clenched as her head fell back in laughter at Something he must have said. She only did that when she was over the moon.

"Janice, huh?" My teeth clenched painfully as I slammed by hands into the seat in front of me.

Everest heaved a deep breath like he'd been holding it for a while, "Your anger is unjustifiable-slightly disturbing too."

"Disturbing? What is right about a woman whose carrying my children frolicking with another man by this time of the night?"

"Is that the real reason? Or-"

"I think I preferred it when you chose to stay silent," I interrupted. He stayed silent observing things that often times, his observations and conclusions were right. But I didn't need Dr Phil tonight.

He rose his hands in mocking surrender. "Ok. Have it your way-sir."

I kissed my teeth and turned back to watch the exasperating sight. They were now standing in front of the car and I could see his features clearly now. All that dress-up just to impress her? He hugged her for what seemed like hours and she didn't withdraw or push him away, I'd always known he was taken advantage of her present emotions. He finally bade goodnight and she stepped into the car, I'd assumed she'd notice my presence but I guess she was so carried away by him and that she didn't.

It felt like a rose garden the moment she stepped into the car. I could inhale this for ever but I should inhale to calm my nerves too. One, two... [i/] I inhaled and exhaled silently, now was a good time for my overly expensive meditation classes to prove useful.

"I hope you enjoyed your date?" I said after successfully bringing my ragged breath to normal.

Startled, she scrambled on her seat. Everest saved her the terror and switched on the light.

"Nathan?" Her voice wavered. I couldn't tell if it was guilt or the shock of seeing me.

I strapped my seatbelt successfully without strangling myself. Getting back on the road would offer me more distraction than this annoyingly sexy woman sitting by my side.

"Everest, drive." [i] Please. I'd have to send someone to pick up my car by morning.

More than halfway home and she remained silent, only glancing out of the window occasionally.

"It's good to see you're well enough to be up and about," I managed to say behind clenched teeth.

"Good to see you cared enough to check on my wellbeing."

"Don't give me that attitude."

"What? That's why you're here, right?" Her tone, innocent but the hint of sarcasm there. "Or is there a better reason why you're stalking me at ten and scaring the shit out of me?"

"Maybe if you didn't choose to stay out this late nobody would have had to stalk or scare you! I called you multiple times, Enitan!"

"Oh! You're my nanny now?"

"No. But you're carrying my children and-"

She scoffed.

"I won't let you put them at risk, Enitan."

"What risk!" She let out an insufferable laugh and exhaled a deep breath. "You seem to have a problem knowing where and when your fatherly responsibilities apply."

I placed my head on the headrest and pinched my eyebrows together. There could only be on explanation for her action. "Enitan, Is this your way of revolting, getting revenge on me? Because if it is, you're being irrational."

"Revolt?" She unhooked her seatbelt and turned towards me. "You have your head so stuck up in your ass you think everything and everyone revolves around you!"

My head snapped sideways at her tone. "Have you been drinking? Because so help me God, I'll strangle that man you've been out with."

She muttered incoherent words and bobbled her head. "You're impossible. I've had a long day, Nathan. Can you get to the part where you tell me why you're here?"

[i] Dear God! I was going to loose it if she didn't stop with the sass. [i]

I inhaled deeply then further loosened my tie. "How did your day at the doctor's go?" I asked calmly, surprising even myself.

"I think you already know the answer to that," she scoffed, again, a thing she'd been doing all night.

I was trying to have a normal conversation and here she was frustrating me. "You're right. I know that. But what I don't know is why you wouldn't call me after you had the sonogram."

"Why? Call you so you could call your lawyer to arrange child custody for two kids?"

"Jesus, I didn't mean that, Enitan. I only said that out of anger because you said you couldn't stand me. But hey, look at me," I placed my palms on hers but she withdrew them. Ignoring the heaviness in my chest, I continued, "I want to do this together, our kids deserve the best parenting. I also want to be part of every step of this pregnancy. I didn't mean to leave all the responsibilities on you. After the video saga, I was scared of more complications."

"Nathan first, huh?"

"Not me. I was scared for you! Have you seen the mean things people have been saying online about you since the video? Imagine if one of those desperate bloggers were to see us walking into a natal ward together. They'll put a face on the girl I kissed in that video and everything blows up. I want you out of the public eye. Not just for my reputation. But for your safety."

"So what's making you have a change of mind?"

"Twins Eni. That's double every stress and challenge. It'll be unfair to leave you to handle this by yourself. I'll call doctor Helena by morning, fix myself in your schedule. We could have a private meeting somewhere out of the public eye."

"There won't be any need for that. I already have someone to support me with natal visits."

"You can't drag Tanya around, she'll be so busy with work.-"

"I wasn't talking about Tanya,"

"Your dad has his restaurant to run, your sisters have school. So who?"

"My doctor. Jameel."

"Jesus Christ! Are you out of your fucking mind? Letting that man get involved with my kids?

"'That man,'" she laid emphasis, "got involved even before you did! He's dependable and has done nothing but endlessly care for me. God knows I could use that right now."

"Are you dating him?" I asked calmly.

She scoffed, "You're craz-"

"Are you dating him?" I repeated.

"No. But I wont lie that the possibility of that happening in the future is not there! I don't intend to be the jilted baby mama forever." She folded her arms across her chest.

"You got to be kidding me," I said as my head fell back on the head rest again.

I'm not! My life would eventually have to move on after this, and I may as well start now. Jameel and I have-history. He's also been so kind and supportive-"

Jesus! She was sounding like a lovesick teenager.

"He's already a part of my life one way or another-and most likely part of these children's lives as well. I need to know you'll be open and willing to accept him," she continued.

"I'm not letting him be a part of my children’s' lives, Enitan."

"But your crazy wife is allowed to be part of their lives? If we're going to do this then we have to come to a compromise. I accepted Annabelle. You asked for my blessings and I gave it-despite how rude she was to me. It's time you accept Jameel too and-"

"You're joking if you think-"

"Please. This is the only favour I'll ever ask of you."

***
"Blessings, my ass," I muttered as I alighted the Uber and searched for my house key card. I unlocked the door and stepped in, only to be enveloped by the coldness of the living room-or maybe it was my heart. I dumped my briefcase and suit jacket on the sofa, and pulled the tie completely loose. Undoing the sleeves buttons and folding up the sleeves, I headed for the mini bar. I poured myself a strong deal and gulped down it's content.

She was already planning on her future. I wanted her happy. I wanted her to move on. But I'd never considered the possibility of it being with someone else. Was she finally over me? Was two months all it took for her feelings to fade away? I poured myself another glass and lazily sat on the sofa.


Author's Note : Hey guys, I'm so sorry about the late update, I'm terrible, I know. Please bear with me. Also, please pardon any error(s) you must have come across, this chapter was edited in a hurry. Thanks for your continuous support. Please don't give up on me... And for those awesome supporters, don't worry, there are enough chapter dedications to go around.

MozB:
Wow.... I finally caught up. Its really an interesting one. I'll only have a problem with late updates, seeing that the last update was on the 8th and today is 14th. Its really going to be disturbing to wait tho.

I know, I know! I'm not even proud of myself right now, and I'm tired of the excuses too, but the delay is not intentional. I also don't want to put this story on hold (to write all the chapters and post at once), because I know myself, I'll never get back to writing. So pleassse (lying down and prostrating), please bear with me. Whatever happens, this story will finish on first week of August.

Thanks for reading.

tot:
Well done Culin, and thanks for the update.

<3 Thanks for bearing with me.

Humbleness:
Surprise package...
Thanks for the update

real surprise. Uwc and Thanks! Next update most likely to come by tomorrow morning.

Blackween:
This Nathan should get his shit together o

For real girl! He better.

Ann2012:
What a surprise and scare ......
So Nathan had to come join Everest in waiting for Eni

Thanks for the update

As in ehn! The nerve of that Nathan.