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CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO READ EPISODE 25 & 26
https://dapalace.com/protected-episode-25-26/

The Fault in our Romance Episode 18
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
*************************************
(Bethany furiously enters the kitchen with the sketchpad)

Stephen: What's the matter babe?

Bethany: (she shows him the drawing of Silvania) Who the hell is this? Don't even lie to me!

Stephen: Where did you get that?

Bethany: It doesn't matter where I got it! I ask again, Who is this? (She sees the name of the drawing) Ohh, And the name of the drawing is "Silvania".... Stephen, What is this? Few months to our marriage and you're already cheating on me?!

Stephen: It's not what you think...

Bethany: I can't believe this. (She throws the sketchpad at him and leaves the kitchen)

Stephen: Bethany come on...

(Stephen follows her out of the kitchen and catches up to her, He tries to hold her back but she rebukes him )

Bethany: (angrily) Do not touch me! I'm not sleeping in your room tonight, You can have your bed all to yourself and your precious little drawing of "Silvania"

(She leaves him)

(Next Morning)
(In the kitchen)
(Bethany goes to the kitchen to meet Rosemary)

Rosemary: Good morning Miss Bethany.

Bethany: Morning Rosemary. Ummm, Are you busy?

Rosemary: Not really. Why?

Bethany: I need you use the boiler to boil water for me to have my bath. There's no hot water in my fiance's room.

Rosemary: No problem miss. (She does as instructed)

Bethany: I want it to be very hot please.

(Just then, Silvania enters the kitchen)

Silvania: (To Bethany) Good morning miss.

(Bethany eyes her scornfully)

Silvania: (she ignores Bethany's reaction and looks at Rosemary) Morning Rose. I came to ask if you're done with everything you need to do this morning so I can start cleaning up the kitchen?

Rosemary: Not yet. But I'll let you know when I'm finished.

Silvania: Sure.

Bethany: (thinks) Why is the name of Stephen's drawing and this girl's name the same? (She stares at Silvania for a moment)

(Few minutes afterwards)

Rosemary: The water is ready Miss Bethany.

Bethany: Okay good.

(Bethany carries the hot water and is about to leave the kitchen when she pretends to slip and then she intentionally pours the hot water on Silvania's exposed arm)

Silvania: (screams) Ahhhhhhhh!!!!

Rosemary: Silvania!

Bethany: Oh my god, I'm so so sorry! (To Rosemary) Get the first aid kit, Quickly!

Rosemary: Yes miss. (She hurriedly goes to fetch the first aid kit)

Bethany: First of all, You'll need to let cool water touch your arm...

(She takes Silvania to the sink and rinses her arm)

Bethany: Just let it cool then we'll bandage it, Okay?

Silvania: Okay.

(Bethany looks at her with despisement)

(That evening)
(In Stephen's room)

Stephen: (on the phone with Alex) I don't know, bro. Bethany's attitude is changing. It's like she's suffering from paranoia.

Alex: (over the phone) Just try to work things out with her...

(Stephen turns around and sees Bethany at the door)

Stephen: (to Alex) I'll call you back... (He cuts the call)

Bethany: I just came to get my purse. I left it here last night.

(Bethany takes her purse and attempts to leave but Stephen gently draws her back)

Stephen: Bethany wait... Allow me to explain

Bethany: (she folds her arms) Okay, Go on. I'm all ears.

Stephen: Remember at the hospital when I was telling you about the girl who saved me? That's the girl in the drawing. I drew her because I wanted to be sure that I saw her cause no one else believed me, I was even starting to doubt myself as well. That's just why I drew her, I don't even know who she is.

Bethany: But why is the name of your drawing and the name of that cleaner girl the same?

Stephen: I don't know, Okay? It's probably a coincidence. Look, I drew that drawing before I even met Silvania.

Bethany: (sighs)

Stephen: So, Do you forgive me?

Bethany: (smiling) Of course I do. And I guess I overreacted, I'm sorry

Stephen: It's cool.

Bethany: (she touches her temples with her two hands) The pressure and anxiety of our impending marriage is really getting to me..

Stephen: (he holds her waist erotically) Just shake it off.

(Stephen pulls Bethany into a deep lustful kiss while loosening her top and Bethany removes his clothes at the same time. Stephen pins her to the wall and kisses her passionately, handling her soft firm breasts at the same time. Bethany breaks the kiss, removes his belt, takes off his trousers then pushes him to the bed and she climbs on him and continues kissing him, Soon they're engaging in a heated romance)

(Meanwhile)
(In the kitchen)

Lucas: (he stares at Silvania's bandaged arm) Sorry Silvania. I know that witch did this to you on purpose.

Silvania: (poignantly) It doesn't matter. What's done is done, I can't reverse what happened.

Lucas: I don't like Bethany at all. Unlike you guys, I don't even call her "Miss Bethany"

Rosemary: You guys have to be compliant if you want to enjoy working here. I advise you, Just be respectful to everyone. Sir Griffin, His son, His son's girlfriend....

Lucas: Yeah yeah...

Rosemary: That reminds me. (To Lucas) Please help me take that tray of food to Sir Stephen. (She points at the tray of food)

Lucas: Okay.

Silvania: (she intercepts Lucas) Don't worry, I'll take the food to him.

Lucas: Are you sure? What about your arm?

Silvania: Don't worry about me...

(Silvania carries the tray of food to Stephen's room)

Silvania: (excitedly) Oooohh, I can't wait to have some alone time with Stephen... (giggles quietly)

(In Stephen's room)
(Silvania enters the room)

Silvania: Sir Stephen, Your food is....

(She looks up to see Stephen making out with Bethany)

Silvania:..... Here.

Stephen: (he notices Silvania) Ohhh.... (He gets up from the bed) Thank God. I'm starving.

(He collects the tray of food from Silvania and drops it on his table)

Stephen: (smiles) Thank you. We'll let you know if we need anything else

Silvania: (despondently) No problem sir.

Bethany: (she gets up and goes to Stephen) Let's pick it up where we left off baby....

(Bethany pulls back Stephen into a kiss, Then she opens her eyes to see Silvania's reaction)

Silvania: (sadly) Bon appetité.

(She leaves the room)

(At the quarters)
(Silvania sadly enters the room and start packing her things)

Lucas: Silvania.... Is something wrong?

Silvania: (crying profusely) What was I even thinking? Leaving my family and coming on land to meet a man who doesn't even know me or loves me, That was just foolish of me. I'm a fool, I'm a slowpoke, I'm an idiot....

Lucas: Calm down, Silvania. Your emotions are overwhelming you. Tell me what happened.

Silvania: I saw Stephen making out with Bethany and I just got upset, I know I'm not supposed to feel this way because Stephen and I aren't even in a relationship, But I do! I do feel upset... (crying harder)

Lucas: You're packing your bags.... Where are you going?

Silvania: I'm going back to the sea, Where I belong. (She packs her bags and keeps them under her bed) I deserve everything I'm going through right now, I brought this upon myself. I betrayed my mother, my father, my friends, my whole kingdom...

Lucas: Silvania you don't have to do this.

Silvania: I'm sorry Lucas but I do.

Lucas: No. You can't go, You're like a big sister that I never had... Who's gonna watch my back when you're gone?

Silvania: (she cleans her tears) My mind is made up.

(Silvania leaves the house and goes to the ocean. Lucas follows her)

Lucas: (devastated) Silvania please....

Silvania: (tears run down her cheeks) Maybe it'll have been better if I had never come here in the first place. (She gives Lucas her hair clip) That's to remember me by... (She hugs him) I'll miss you...

(Silvania enters the water then takes off her amulet and transforms back into a mermaid while Lucas watches from the beach)

Silvania: Goodbye Lucas.

Lucas: (distraughted) Bye...

(She dives into the water, swimming back to the Mer Kingdom)

To be Continued

The Fault in our Romance Episode 17
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
************************************
(That night)
(In the kitchen, Rosemary and Veronica cook dinner)

Veronica: Rosemary, Is the pasta soft already?

Rosemary: Yes Madam.

Veronica: Okay take it down and dish it out for everyone.

Rosemary: (she takes out the spaghetti sauce)

Veronica: No no no, My husband doesn't like spaghetti sauce, I'll make him meatballs. Just take the foods to the dinner table.

Rosemary: Yes Madam.

(As Rosemary carries the food out of the kitchen, Stephen enters the kitchen)

Stephen: Mmmm, What smells sumptuous in here?

Veronica: It's just spaghetti. Rosemary has taken your food to the dinner table.

Stephen: Okay then. (He takes a fork and leaves the kitchen)

Veronica: (about Stephen) Son of a bitch! I can't wait to see your dead body locked in a casket and buried six feet underground... I just have to endure you for a little while till the time is right and then, I'll finish you off!

(Meanwhile)
(At the dinner table)

Stephen: Dad, Aren't you going to eat?

Sir Griffin: You know I don't like pasta sauce. But don't worry, your stepmom's making me some meatballs.

(Just then, They hear a dog barking loudly)

Sir Griffin: Isn't that your dog, Max?

Stephen: Yeah, I wonder what's wrong with him? (To Sir Griffin) I'll be right back.

(Stephen goes outside and sees his dog barking angrily at Bethany)

Stephen: (he crouches & pats the dog) Easy boy. She's a friend, not a foe.

Bethany: I wonder why he doesn't like me.

Stephen: He'll get used to you very soon.

Bethany: (rolls her eyes) Hopefully.

Stephen: Yeah (he stands up to his feet) So, What're you doing here?

Bethany: I just wanted to come and stay with you for a while before our wedding.

Stephen: Sounds alright.

Bethany: Of course it is. We're soon going to be a couple and we need to be as close as we can to each other (she walks to her car boot) Come and help me offload them.

(Stephen helps Bethany to carry her luggages into the house)

Sir Griffin: Bethany!

Bethany: Good evening Mr Griffin....Or rather, Good evening my father in-law (laughs)

Sir Griffin: (he laughs) How are you my dear?

Bethany: I'm fine sir.

Sir Griffin: I see you came with your luggages.

Bethany: Yes sir. I'll be staying here till the day Stephen and I get married.

Sir Griffin: That's okay, You're always welcome here. Why don't you go drop your luggages then come and join us for dinner.

Bethany: I'd be delighted.

(Later that night)
(The dinner table)
(Sir Griffin, Stephen, Veronica & Bethany eat)

Bethany: So Sir Griffin, My mom and I have picked a church for our wedding, It's St John's church. I talked about it with Stephen and he said it was okay.

Sir Griffin: And what about the date? Have you picked a date for the wedding?

Stephen: Not yet, Dad.

Sir Griffin: We need to decide on a date fast. You're not getting any younger...

Bethany: True. (she talks with a mouthful of spaghetti) Mmmm, This pasta is so delicious. It wouldn't be bad to step it down with some juice.

Sir Griffin: Okay. (shouts) Rosemary!

(The cook, Rosemary enters the dining room)

Rosemary: Sir?

Sir Griffin: Serve us some orange juice.

Rosemary: Okay sir.

(Rosemary goes into the kitchen and sees Silvania doing the dishes)

Rosemary: Good thing you're here, Please I'll need you to wash four glass cups.

Silvania: No problem.

(Rosemary and Silvania takes the glass cups and orange juice to the dinner table. Bethany is infuriated on seeing Silvania)

Rosemary: It's here sir.

Sir Griffin: Good. Pour it for us.

(Silvania and Rosemary pours the orange juice into the glass cups)

Bethany: (holding a glass cup) Mine please....

(While Silvania pours Bethany a cup of orange juice, She intentionally hits Silvania's elbow and the juice pours on her)

Silvania: Ah!

Bethany: (snidely) Oops. Sorry.

(Sir Griffin, Stephen, Veronica and Rosemary look towards Silvania & Bethany)

Sir Griffin: What happened?

Silvania: (while looking at her skirt) The juice poured on my skirt.

Bethany: (mockingly) Well at least it's not one of your nice skirts. (she continues eating)

Sir Griffin: (to Silvania) Go in and change the clothes then wash it before the stain becomes permanent.

Silvania: Yes sir.

(At the quarters)
(Silvania goes to change her skirt)

Lucas: Woah, What happened to you?

Silvania: Bethany poured orange juice on me.

Lucas: (angrily) That witch! If I were there, I would've slapped her hard.

Silvania: Let's not say thing we can't do.

Lucas: (laughs) Oh really?

Silvania: Yes. You can't possibly do that, You'd lose your job. Considering the fact that she's the fianceé to the son of the owner of the house you work in.

Lucas: (confused by what she just said) Huh?

Silvania: Think it through.

Lucas: (he realizes what she meant) Ohhh. Wow, How'd you put all that together?

Silvania: (chuckles)

Lucas: I wanna go see the fireworks, You coming?

Silvania: Sure. I wanna see what it looks like.

(Silvania & Lucas leave their quarters)

(Meanwhile)
(In the ocean - The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle, King Jerod and Prince Erik are in the throne room when two merman guards bring in a mermaid)

King Jerod: What is this?

Merman guard 1: My King, We caught her with some surface objects, Which means she's been going up to the surface

Mermaid: (crying) That's not true...

King Jerod: (aggressively) Silence! (To the mermaid) What is your name?

Mermaid: (fidgets) My name is Alana.

King Jerod: And how did you get those surface objects?

Alana: I saw them in a boat which sunk at the bottom of the ocean, I swear!

King Jerod: (to the guards) Lock her up in the dungeon till she's ready to tell me the truth.

Alana: No! My King please... I'm innocent!!!

(The guards carry her and takes her to the dungeon)

King Jerod: This is how I want you to rule the ocean when you become King. I want you to rule with an iron fist! You mustn't be soft on your subjects or else they'll see you as a weak King. Understood?

Prince Erik: Yes Father.

King Jerod: I'm very happy you and your sister didn't take after your mother. She was always too soft on our subjects.

Prince Erik: Where is my mother?

King Jerod: Erik, You've asked me that a dozen times....

Prince Erik: And now I need an answer.

King Jerod: Your mother is dead.

Prince Erik: (shocked) What?

King Jerod: Many years back, Your mother, Queen Marissa was found guilty of commiting a felony. And according to my law, Anyone guilty of that crime would be sentenced to death.

Prince Erik: (bewildered) You killed her?

King Jerod: (without any hint of remorse) Yes. There was no pain, I killed her swiftly.

(Prince Erik stares at his father in shock)

(Later that night)
(In Stephen's room)
(Stephen just comes out from the shower while Bethany lays on his bed, using her phone)

Stephen: Ooohh, The shower's really cold.

Bethany: What happened to the hot shower?

Stephen: It's a long story. (he puts on a shirt and shorts) I'm going downstairs to get a bottle of beer, You want some?

Bethany: Yeah.

Stephen: I'll be back. (He goes out of the room)

Bethany: I need to take a wazz.

(She gets up from the bed and looks around for her slippers)

Bethany: Ugh, Where the hell is my slippers?

(Bethany checks under the bed and sees Stephen's sketchpad)

Bethany: Hmm, I didn't know Stephen still draws...

(She pulls out the sketchpad from under the bed and opens it then checks Stephen's drawings)

Bethany: Hmm, Good stuff. Stephen is very talented...

(Bethany keeps on flipping the pages until she sees the sketch that Stephen made of Silvania)

Bethany: (looking at the sketch in confusion) Who the hell is this?! (She closes the sketchpad) STEPHEN!!!!

(Bethany furiously leaves the room with the sketch, Going to confront Stephen)

To be Continued

Visit www.dapalace.com to read episode 16
Or CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW
https://dapalace.com/the-fault-in-our-romance-episode-15-16/

Protected
By Bebe Ernest
Episode 23 & 24

MAGIC.
"Ok let me get this straight, she fell right on her face, like on her face on her face?"
Julliet asks.
And I nod.
She bursts out laughing again, well they burst out laughing.
Tamara and Sandra are here too.
Sage is too.
It's the morning after the party blast last night.
We are having breakfast, we have a full house.
Tamara didn't go home last night and Sandra slept over.
We are having breakfast and rehashing, they seem to find it amusing.
Well I know I found it amusing.
"Man, you've gotten weak, that blow was too small, kill her more"
Sage says and am surprised.
Ruining a girls life and her relationship with her parents was not enough?
What was their definition of enough?
"You should know me better than that sage, that was the beginning"
He says meaningfully at sage and sage nods.
Seems sage knows about Selene's folly.
He has a dark look in his eyes. Sage.
I almost shiver.
Poor selene.
"Just as long as you don't kill her, that's all am asking"
"Trust me lil bro"
Justice says and turns To me..
"Hey baby, you got chocolate on your lip right there"
He says.
I wipe with a serviette.
"Now?"
He leans forward and cleans my lip with his thumb .
I smile.
"Thanks"
I turn to my meal and I see everyone watching us.
Opps..
"I can never get used to a softer side of justice"
Sandra says.
"It's because you only like soft guys brat".
He says affectionately and everyone groans.
"Burnnnnn"
She sticks her tongue out at him and I smile.
"So what are we doing today?"
Julliet asks.
"Am going to the office"
Justice and sage say simultaneously.
Julliet shakes her head.
"Nope, nada, zilch, we are having a pool party"
She says with glee.
"Yay! Partay!"
Alec shouts and I smile.
"Ok if you guys need anything let me know, I will be in my room"
Justice turns severe eyes to me?
"Why?"
He asks.
Am sorry am I invited?
I smile nervously.
"Am I invited?"
"Hells yeah"
Julliet says and I smile.
Justice just shakes his head at me.
Opps again.
*****
After breakfast I change into a bikini and one of justice white sleeves.
My bikini is in pink and it's perfect.
I make my way down stairs and i grab the drinks cooler with one hand, I was going to get the other one but my gauze.
"Let me help you with that"
I turn and I see sage.
I smile at him and I thank him.
I stop at his next words.
"I like you magic, I really do and i like the way you make justice feel"
I smile.
"But let me get this straight, if you hurt him or I find out out you are here for any other reason than you said in the first place,
I promise you, I will destroy you, I will ruin you and you won't know where you start and where pain ends.
Are we clear?"
My smile drops.
Well that answers my question about Sage knowing.
He sure knows and he has misgivings about me.
"Sage, I promise....."
"For you and for me I hope your promise mean something magic."
He says and I understand, he I scared for his Friend.
He loves his friend.
I drop my cooler and I hug him.
He looks surprised.
"Thank you Sage"
I say.
This big dangerous man is scared for his friend.
I can see it.
I lean up and k-s his cheek.
"I promise to let you when it all get too much Sage".
He nods.
He has lost some of his severe look.
I pick my cooler and I leave.
I walk to the pool and I see Alec playing with another little boy.
I turn in a 360 degree and I see sage settle behind julliet.
She looks like an angel in a white bikini.
Sandra looks like devil impersonation in her blood red bikini.
She is in the water with Tamara who is in a blue bikini.
And here I am in pink.
I must look like Barbie.
Ugh.
I see a man discussing with Justin.
Am confused, do I know him?
I drop the cooler and I sit on a chair .
"Do I have to tell you to get your a-s here magic?"
I hear justice holler .
I blush.
"Get your a-s over there magic"
Sandra shouts and I stick my tongue out at her.
I stand and I make my way to justice.
When I settle beside him he pulls me into his lap.
He settles a big sunglass on my face and i smile.
After a while I ask.
"Who is that?"
I nod at the man.
"That's Tamara's boyfriend petr and her son Daniel"
I nod as I pull close to him.
He k-ses my shoulder.
"So Sage gave me the talk"
I say as I lean to grab a pop drink.
"The talk?"
"The 'if you hurt him talk'"
I say with a smirk.
He groans.
"That sappy Fool"
He calls at sage who is talking to Alec.
"Yo, fool"
Sage lifts and turns his head as if he is really a fool.
"Yes slowpoke?"
"You love me don't you?"
Justice asks.
And I giggled.
"You sure you still a man, you sappy slowpoke?"
He asks and justice flips him the bird.
"I will appreciate if you stop calling the father of my unborn children names brother".
Julliet says and I almost burst out laughing.
"And I will appreciate it sister if you don't refer to that A-hole as the father of your unborn children sister".
Now i laugh.
This family, even though dysfunctional, they love themselves.
"Yes julliet, just because I know it doesn't mean i want to hear it, or think it."
Justin hollers as he takes a swig of his drink.
"JJ, you are siding with justice?"
She asks indignantly.
"That's what it is sister kin"
Justin says and she flips him the bird.
Wo.
I laugh real hard.
Sandra laughs too.
Tamara just shakes her head as she snuggle close to petr.
Am sure she is used to this..
Justice k-ses my shoulder again as Justin and julliet continue bantering.
"So tell me itty bitty, do you want anything?"
I decide to be a little mischievous.
I open a button of my sleeve.
"Hmm, I want a lot of things"
He smirks.
"You sure you ready for where you are going with that?"
He asks as I unbutton the sleeve and throw it up.
"Wow!, You go girl!"
Julliet shouts and I blush.
Justice just continue watching me.
"The question big guy is if you are ready for this package"
I say loudly for the others to hear.
"Burnnnnn"
Sage and Justin and Petr shout.
Alec and Daniel just gorge themselves on apples and chocolate.
"Challenge! Challenge! Challenge!"
Every body shouts.
And I try to raise an eyebrow like him, I fail, I just raise both.
"So, watcha gonna do about it big guy?"
I didn't see it coming, i swear I did not..
He rolls me over and lifts his hand.
"Tickle monster!"
The others shout .
I am below him.
I frown.
What's that?
I soon find out.
He raises his hands and descends on my ribs.
I squeal.
Oh my God.
This was tickle monster.
I laugh so hard.
"Stop, please stop,"
I beg him.
"You want me to?"
I nod.
He countinues.
"You really want me to?"
I nod.
"K-s me"
He says.
"Justice!"
I yell.
"Oh well"
He countinues.
"Please stop"
"You know what I want, itty bitty"
"Just k-s the man sister"
Tamara says.
Oh hell.
I mash my lips with his and he instantly stops, pulls my head to him and deepens the k-s.
I raise my hand to his shoulder and I hold him to me.
He breaks the k-s and whispers in my ear.
"Taste good baby"
I blush and I close my eyes as he nuzzles my neck.
When I open my eyes I connect eyes with....
Kele?
I pull away as i sit up, justice rolls up with a frown.
"Baby?....."
He says with a question, he follows my gaze, they all do.
He stands up.
"Who the hell are you?"
He asks with the coldness of the former justice.
I stand and I hold his arm.
"It's alright justice, that's my friend, kelechi.”

MAGIC.
Am still frozen.
I dont know why I can't seem to sum up enough excitement.
Don't get me wrong, we've been talking on the phone, texting each other.
I have enough updates on her to be safely sure that our relationship is on the good track
I remember texting her my address one night.
But am so surprised she is here.
"So, I came all the way to Lagos just to make sure you were not added to a local body peddling society
And all I get is you standing over there like you just saw a car wreck"
She says with here kele attitude and I finally get my self.
Justice drapes my sleeve over my shoulders and I wear it and button.
Kele watches this speculatively.
I can see as clear as day that she doesn't like this situation.
At all.
Like at all.
I throw a smile at justice and i walk slowly to her.
Just for a moment I wonder who let her in and let her walk this far without alerting any of the Maxwells.
When I get to her I throw myself at her she catches me.
This close I feel a sense of melancholy.
I smell her kele smell.
A special blend of cherry scented perfume and a cinnamon spice scented perfume.
I missed her I realize.
She kisses my cheek and she breaks the hug.
"How have you been?"
She asks and I nod.
Behind me I can hear the others breaking the up the party.
Am so sorry one of my problems ruined things again.
Not that kele is a problem.
I feel justice walk up to us behind me.
I turn to him because kele does so as well.
"Kelechi, meet my boyfriend justice, justice meet kelechi my bestest best friend"
All through those many phone calls and texts not once did I mention I had a romantic entanglement over here in Lagos.
I can see the betrayal in her eyes.
I don't know why I never told her.
I felt like she would not approve.
Justice just raises an eyebrow at her and then turns to me with cold in his eyes.
What now?
"It's getting chilly out side magic, bring your friend in".
He says this, I look around and i see everyone has gone inside.
Ok.....
Seems they wanted to give us privacy.
I nod my head and I lead kelechi inside.
When we get to my room I begin to strip the sleeve.
"When were you planning on telling me?"
She asks and I halt on my way to my closet.
"Kele....."
"Do you know how worried I was?, I thought maybe something would have happened to you"
"Kele......"
She doesn't let me get a word in.
"You were so naive, I was like, since am free I should come here and help you get sorted,
Imagine my surprise when I come in and I see you looking all cozy with the master of the house."..
"Kelechi.... please...."
She suddenly gasps.
"Is he making you do things? Is he forcing you to do things?"
I open my mouth but she countinues.
"Grab your things, we are leaving this house now, come on".
Ok....
She countinues.
"I knew it, I knew something was wrong, I felt it, how could you be so stupid Emily?"
Now am getting angry.
"Just hold on for a minute there kele"
She stops at my outburst.
"What makes you think I want to leave? Leave and go where?
And also I would appreciate it if you don't insinuate that my boyfriend is a rapist.
I mean come on, is it so farfetched that I could get an handsome, rich boyfriend?
These people have been nothing but a blessing and good to me.
They literally pay me to eat for them.
I have been here for 2 months and I feel better than I have felt in all of my life!
So don't badge in and assume things, don't come in here and act jealous kele.
Please"
I realize I raised my voice so I take a deep breath.
"Is that so?
If they are so good then what happened to your hand? Uh?"
We both glance at my gauze ...
"Accidents happen kele, even you know that"
I say.
She laughs dubiously.
"Two months in the city and you think you know it all? You think you are a big girl now?
You are still a blind naive village girl magic, the earliest you get that the earliest we can leave here".
"I am not leaving, you are not my bloody mother!,
You are nothing to me,
Nothing you hear me?"
She is quiet for once.
I regret the words I said as soon as I said them.
But I go on.
"Just be happy for me kele, that's all I ask".
She doesn't say anything so I sigh.
"Am going to go prepare lunch now, it's what am paid to do,
You can stay here for the night, till anytime you want,
You can use my room.
I will find somewhere else to sleep."
I say this and I lean down to kiss her cheek.
She is staring at the TV, she doesn't say a word.
I sigh.
I go get a change of cloth and I walk to the bathroom.
I change.
I have to go cook but first I have to go get kelechi's carry on from the ground floor.
I glance at her as I exit she is still standing, but now staring out the window.
I exit and I go downstairs.
I see everyone looking pensive.
Am sure it's not for me.
I listen and I hear grunting coming from the work out room.
Am surprised, the room is far away.
I finally notice that justice is missing.
I glance at julliet, she doesn't meet my eyes.
I feel the weight of sage eyes on me and I look at him.
There is disappointment in them.
Oh hell.
Today did not go as planned.

Protected
Episode 22

MAGIC.
Am so nervous, Jesus, we got to this shindig about 20 mins ago and I feel so out of place.
Even though am wearing a kick-ss gown and I look pretty enough to eat, am just still me a green girl from a backwater village in onitsha.
I sigh softly.
Am on justice arms and that alone should have been enough, but the looks am getting are not helping.

He has stepped away to talk to some acquaintances.
I know what julliet said and I understood but it so hard you know.
I walk to the bar, am feeling kind of dizzy.
I signal for a waitress and she steps forward, she is wearing a black gown, I notice the catering staff are wearing something similar.
"Good evening ma'am, how may I help you?"
Am instantly taken aback, me ma'am?.
If I hear.
"Oh, please just call me magic, I love your dress by the way"
"Thanks ma'am, am zinny, am the head waiting staff, those guys over there are with me, they are Abdul, Fabian, Carmen, Mandy, godiya, ola, Vicki, Amma and Dare, we were just admiring your dress,
They want me to let you know that you look beautiful and we are prepared to serve you well this evening.
If you need anything just signal"
I almost die, am overwhelmed, I can't believe people think am pretty, I mean, what?

"Thanks Zin, I will let you know, right now can I please get a glass of sparkling water?"
"Right on that"
She steps away and returns and she gave me a sweating glass of sparkling water, I take a sip, refreshing.
As I take another I feel Justice's presence beside me and I turn.
"Am so sorry about that bitty, I had to make the rounds with some of my colleagues"
I nod, I understand.
"S'oright, I made a friend"
I signal at Zin and she steps forward.
"Hi, zinny this is my.....this is justice,my ... guardian, justice, zinny, my new friend".
He throws her a nod and she looks starstruck.
I won't blame her, she looks exceptionally handsome tonight.
I can't believe we haven't placed a label on what we are, I was almost going to call him my boyfriend.
Thank God I saved my self from experiencing that embarrassment.
I mean what would I have done if he had said we were not dating.
Somebody shoot me.
I take another drink and he gently massages my neck.
Hmm.
Soon we are approached by an older couple.
Justice stands straight and I know, I just know this are our guests.
The man is tall and Noble looking, like he is from old money, he has dark hair with some streaks of white.
In his days am sure he sowed some wide oats.
The woman on the other hand looks like a force to be reckoned with, she has attitude.
She breaths and walks it.
Her head is held high, she looks to be in her late 30's but I know she is older, much older.

The thing that strikes me most is her silver eyes, they looks like molten silver.
I can see pain in there depths, deep pain, she has experienced a loss.
A staggering one.
I can see the same pain mirrored in the man's eyes.
But when they see justice, they smile, they respect him.
And he respects them too I can see, the way he is standing changes, his demeanor changes too.
He drops his arrogance.
They get to us and he bows waist deep.
I like I should curtsy.
"Maxwells my man, bring it in"
The man says in a boisterous voice.
Justice embraces the man, I mean a full embrace.
"George, it's so nice to see you, thanks for your invitation"
He separates and turns to the woman, he bends and kisses her cheeks, both cheeks.
"Margaret, you look stunning as always"
"Oh justice, flattering will get you everywhere"
She says in a surprisingly soft voice.
They turn to me and am assaulted with nerves.
"Margaret, George, this is my girlfriend , Emilia."
Apparently he has no misgivings on giving our relationship a label.
I feel good.
I smile and I give a little bow.
"Good evening madam and sir, thanks so much for having us, it's a great party"
Am surprised when I am pulled into a hug by Margaret, ha.
"You look so beautiful my dear"
She says this while kissing my cheeks.
I smile and blush.
Magic style.
"Thank you madam"
"Please call me Maggie or mother, am as well a mother to your boyfriend"
I smile, pleased.

George shakes my hand and I greet.
Justice leads all of us to some seats and I seat beside him.
"So tell me magic, where are you from?"
She says this while reaching for her husband's hand and immediately I can see they love themselves.
Where was Selene spawned from?
"Am from ontisha ma, my name is Emilia magic obi"
I say and I see her exchange looks with her husband.
Am sure they don't approve, now that they've found out am not from a wealthy socialite home.
But surprisingly they don't let it show.
The conversation goes on and am instantly pulled in, soon am bantering with George, am siding with Maggie.
I laugh, I see we get some looks from the other guests.
Time flies, justice gets me a drink.
We talk with the Efosa's some more.
I find out they are from a part of Edo State but settled in Lagos State because their company is doing good here.
They are so warm, making me feel welcomed.
We even exchange numbers, Maggie and I.
I ask again, where was Selene gotten from?
A ditch?
Then again the snake has not shown herself yet.
My gauze pulls at me, making me remember the pain of the glass embedding itself into my fingers.
As if I conjured her up she shows up.
Magic why?
"Greetings parents"
She says as she leans and kiss George's head and kiss Maggie's cheek.
She settles herself in a seat beside justice.
I don't like that, i lean forward and I place my hand on Justice's arm, he turns to me and kiss my cheek.

I glance at the Efosa's and they look uncomfortable.
Poor people.
"So justice, fancy seeing you here"
He just turns to her and gives her a cold look.
She places her hand on his arm too and I clecnch his arm.
"I would appreciate Selene if you don't touch me "
She looks taken aback and she drops her hand, looking pissed.
I swallow a laugh.
The conversation is dead.
This woman singlehandedly ruined the mood.
That's a fit.
We are approached by a man.
"Congrats, Selene, on the baby, that's a wonderful news"
I frown.
What?
The man walks away and she looks at him as he goes with a frown.
Her parents frown too.
A woman in a blue dress comes up and she hugs Selene.
"Selene!, You are having a baby! such a good news, but wait,...."
She mocks whispers.
. What are you going to do about the herpes?"
"Herpes?!"
Maggie shouts.

The woman walks away and I finally get what was happening.
I almost smile.
"Mama....."
Selene begins but another, wait about 5 people approach us.
All around I see people whispering about the sickness Selene has.
Selene is looking around and I see maggie looking around pissed.
"What is going on?"
Selene shouts and I hear laughter.
Maggie is so embarrassed George is looking disappointed.
"Selene Imade Efosa, you have herpes?"
Maggie scream.
"Mama, I don't....."
"I am so disappointed Selene, I can't believe I gave birth to this excuse for a child"
George says.
"This has to stop, Selene, your accounts are frozen, your houses and cars you can't use, untill you cure your self, until you become more responsible, you are cut off, better go learn how to work"
Maggie says and I was correct, she has attitude.
"But mama...,papa...."
"No buts imade, you are cut off, I can't believe this."
George says.
It pains my heart to cause this people pain but Selene deserves it.
It will be a sight to see the princess reduced to a pauper.
She growls and walks away, on her way she slips and falls on her face, the tray a waiter is holding tips and falls on her body.
Embarrassment complete.
Burn.
Justice pulls me to my feet after that.
"We will take our leave now, am sorry about this evening"
We stand .
"Am so sorry about this justice,we will talk tommorow in the office"
Justice nods and pulls me outside.
When I get out I burst out laughing.
Yup, tonight was a good night.

Protected
By Bebe Ernest
Episode 21

After that announcement last night I was shook.
Dinner countinued as usual.
If I was someone else I would probably be scared for Selene.
Justice got this looks in eyes and I knew all hell will be let loose soon.
Damn.
And here I was my greatest fear was not to be mocked.

It's the next morning.
I am in the kitchen, as always making breakfast, am trying to toast some bread and fry some bacon.
It's going smoothly.
After breakfast I go to my room. And I start watching TV.
What ever justice said yesterday about a party must have been a joke.
I settle into my bed and I almost burst out laughing because the movie was a comedy.
Oh I so love my white movies.
I was getting to the best part when my door burst open.
Sandra and julliet and another lady sweeps into my room, acting for all the world like it's there's.

What now? cue Rihanna's voice.

"Hello Ma Cherie"
That was sandra, i get up and kiss her cheek.

"Hi, Sandra, julliet"
I turn to the other lady.
"Oh, magic, this is Tamara, my cousin"

(So who remembers this lady? Comment.)

I exchange greetings and I see that they have a big garment bag with them.
I open my mouth to ask but julliet beats me to it.
"Tamara, is a stylist, she is good with make up and colours"
Ok....
That's cool but what's my business?
She answers my unspoken thought.
"You are going to a party with justice, you have to look the part."
Are these people for real?
"Are you guys for real?"
"I don't know what that mean but yes, we are real."
That was sandra, I shake my head, this is so strange.
I take everything in, Sandra is perched on my bed, julliet is standing in front of my dresser and the lady Tamara is going through my design pad.
Well what?

"Isn't it too early to start dressing up? I mean it's just past 12"
They look at there selves and burst out laughing.
Ok.....
"No bella, getting ready is never too early, well come on, you have to get your hair done"
That was Tamara, she pulls me in the direction of my bathroom.
Before I know it I am being undressed, my hair is being fried, ok maybe not fried but it felt like it.
My nails are getting polished, my legs are waxed.
That thing hurt so bad.
I am plied with chocolate and gossip.
I found out Tamara is a mother of one, she lives with her boyfriend they love themselves but they are not married, his mother is a witch.
I find out that Julliet went through a tough time when she first arrived in Nigeria from the states.
(If you wanna find out, refer to my first novel(The Homecoming), can't talk about here)
She had a really tough time.

Then finally I find out that Sandra has had a crush on Justin forever.
Well what!

"I mean the first time I knew I was in love with him was when he helped me from the rain about 2 years ago,
He covered me with his jacket, it was so hot, I wished he would have kissed me."
Sandra gushes and I almost die, I blush deeply, talking about k-sing and any form of intimacy is still a tricky subject for me.
They notice my blush.
Of course.
"Tell me bella, you've never k-sed justice?"
Tamara asks and I blush.
"Eww, Tammy,.that's my brother"
"Oh shush girl"
Sandra says.
"Well? Tell us, I want to know too." julliet says
I shake my head.
"Oh come on, don't be shy"
That's Tamara .

"I have k-sed him.."
I say hesitatingly

"Ohhhh"
The three of them say and lean from there seat.
"Well go on"
"But am scared that I don't know how to do it properly"
I say and they lean back.
Well....
"Am sure you are superb at it"
Julliet says.
"Really?"
I ask insecurely.
"Yeah baby girl, I mean the man is smitten with you"
Sandra says
I smile and blush.
"Yeah am sure he is, I mean wait, how am i sure? I feel like I am not up to standards, he is rich I am poor."
"Don't let him hear you say that sweets, you are a Maxwells now, even if it doesn't work out, you will always be a Maxwell,
You don't have to care what people will think, he never says sorry for his decision, he has never, he will never"
Julliet says and I am reassured.
But wait.
"He never says sorry?"
I ask.
"He never, not ever"
"But he told me sorry the other day"
All eyes turns to me in surprise and scepticism.
"Justice told you sorry?"
I nod.
"Oh my God magic, you totally tamed my brother."
Julliet says and I smile in confusion.
"Voila"
Tamara says and she turns me to the mirror, she has been working on my make-up.
I look at my self and it takes me a while to realize the reflection am staring at is actually my self.
I look so beautiful, yes I do, and am me.
I turn and I feel tears rush to the surface.
"No no, you can't cry, you look too beautiful to cry"
Sandra says and I smile.
"Thank you so much for this, I love you guys."
"We love you too"
We hug and share a moment.
"And for the dress..."
Julliet produces a long red dress.
I gasp.
It's an original Michael kors.
"I can't wear that, it's sacred"
They roll there eyes.
"We know you are a cloth freak magic but you tots deserve this, it is a limited edition"
Ok, that was not helping the case.
I take a deep breath and I grab the gown I walk to the bathroom and I change.
When I come out I feel like am walking on air.
They look at me in awe and am nervous.
I step in front of the mirror and I look at myself.
The gown is blood red, it has a droopy back and front, you can see the dimple on my back side.
It's rightly scandalous.
I love it.
The front is embedded with little pearls, I was showing a lot of cleavage.
I love it.
I smile at the girls.
Julliet produces a silver high heel and I feel like Cinderella.
I wear it and I totter on the heels, I almost fall..

I looove it.
I wear studded pearl earrings anda dropping pearl necklace a diamond bracelet all provided by julliet.
I almost cry, I look prettier than Cinderella.
I turn and I hug them again.
This time Sandra hands me a silver clutch purse and am set.
Through all this I can see it's almost 9 in the evening.
Ha.
Now i see why they wanted us to start early.
I walk downstairs with the girls leading me.
I gasp inaudibly.
He looks so handsome in his black tux and black inner shirt.
He turns to me and I forget to breath.
He is staring at me and I am immediately nervous.
He takes my hand when I get to the last step and he raises it to his lips and k-ses my palm.
"You look beautiful bitty"
I blush and he k-ses my cheek.
"So you ready to kick Selene's butt?"
I smile and nod.
Tonight will be a good night.

Protected
By Bebe Ernest
Episode 19 & 20

MAGIC.
I watched him sleep last night, he looked good while doing so, I could not sleep, I mean am sure julliet and Justin think I seduced their brother.
Gosh.
Am finished.

I think I have to woman up and talk to them.
Yes I will do that.
Put things in perspective, if they no longer want me in their house, I will understand.
There was an upside to last evening though.
I spoke with kele, it was lit.
I explained everything, ok maybe not about justice, I just told her about all the trials I went through when I first got here.
She was sympathetic, told me Andrew is back now if I wanted to return.
Good to know, keep my options open..
I shared my address and she shared deets on what was happening in onitsha
Apparently my aunty and uncle are always quarrelling now.
Seems she doesn't do any house chores again, I always did everything.
And seems that she has caught him cheating, mutiple times.

He even hit on kele.
Eww.
Sometimes I ask myself if I am actually related to them..
It's the morning after and I have to get to the kitchen.
I have some sauce to make.
Justice left my room about an hour ago when I was still sleeping.
I have to cook but I still have to talk to Justin and julliet.
I quickly have my bath and I go downstairs.
It's so nice wearing something new, this short jumper feels nice.
It's in a lovely shade of green.
I think it was in last year's summer collection.
I can't believe am wearing something so sophisticated.
I Pat my body with a smile as I get to the kitchen.
I quickly make some rice, sauce, side dishes like deboned chicken, some Salads and a plate of fruit.
(Have I told you guys I want to be a world class chef?-bebe)
I get this recipes from the internet and the food Network.
There have been some trial and error.
If julliet knows how much food I waste in my quest to make these sophisticated dishes, she would scream.
But they turn out alright.
Today I will be needing food as a gift of the gods.
I hope it bribes julliet and Justin.
I set the table and I ring the bell.
Am so nervous.
Julliet comes down first rubbing her eyes.
Seems master sage went home yesterday.
Alec follows and for some reason he looks like he is sweating.
"Yo, magic"
"Yo, Alec"
Justin follows and i think maybe justice has gone to work.
"Justice Is working out, that's were Alec is coming from too"
Julliet says this when she sees my gaze at the door.
I grimace, so much for keeping it cool..
I turn to her and Justin.
"It's not about the money"
I blurt and she blinks.
Well you can take the girl out of the village but not the village out of the girl.
Where are you from Magic,? blurting out that kind of stuff, in front of Alec no less.
Justin replies me though.
"We didn't think you were with our brother for the money, magic."
It's my turn to blink.
"You didn't?"
Julliet answers.
"It was so obvious the other day, you were trying to make him jealous by flirting with Justin"
I blush.
"I...."
She goes on.
"We like what we see magic, we like the changes he is portraying since you came, ok , maybe not the first changes."
She says it jokingly.
"You are good for our brother and we like that".
I smile but I say.
"Am not rich, am a nobody"
Justin says this time.
"Good thing you are now a part of the Maxwells family, eh?"
I blush at his kind words.
I am so grateful to this people.
"Ok so now that that is done, can we eat? Am starving"
Alec says and I smile.
He is so grown up for his age.
I open the plates and the smell of the dish wafts out.
Divine.
"Looks good baby girl"
I almost squeak, he came up behind me.
He kisses my temple and he sits.
"Good morning famz"
"Eww Justy, slang is not for you"
Julliet says and I frown.
"Who is famz?"
"Famz is a shortened form of family"
Alec says while stuffing his face full of chicken.
I almost die.
Magic, you village girl.
"We have to bring you up to speed on slangs, girlfriend, tots have to"
Julliet says and I nod.
"Tots is a shortened form of totally."
She says.
Le sigh.
This people.

*******
So breakfast went well, I mean after my blunder, they gorged themselves on my meal.
That is one place I can never go wrong.
After the meal, justice went to the office.
Justin left too and dropped Alec at school on his way.
Julliet went to the office too.
She looked like a hot secretary, all dolled up in a suit with a turtle neck and cropped jacket.
I am shopping.
Well, am trying to get some groceries.
We are fresh out.
As I lift a small sack of potatoes my phone pings.
Ha, my phone.
I bring it out and I see multiple texts.
Text 1-julliet.
'please grab some Coco pops for Alec and some ice cream and some Matini mixes, we might have a girls night!'
I send her a quick thumbs up smiley .
Text 2.- Justin.
'Get some grapes please, I have a craving'
I send a quick okay.
Seems everyone knew I was coming to the store.
Text 3-Big guy.
I didn't programm his number like that, he did.
'whatcha doing?'
I smile, leaning against the wall, dropping my shopping basket.
'Am at the store, you want anything?'
'you are not ready yet for what I want baby'
'what makes you think so'
I can't believe I'm so bold.
'shop baby girl, see you at home'
I smile as I close the messaging app and I pick my basket.
As I lift my head my heart goes cold.
I blink and I loose the vision.
I think I just saw the gangster from the murder scene.
I look around but no one is near.
Maybe I just thought it.
Maybe it was because I spoke about it with kele last night, my subconscious is still scared.
It's playing tricks on me.
I nod as I continue shopping.
When am done I move to the liquor isle.
I get some Matini mixes and some whisky.
You might think I am a pro but no, I had to browse that.
As I pick a bottle that say 'cherry wine', am pushed from the back and I fall, the bottle crashing and breaking as it hits the ground.
A big piece lodging in my palm.
Blood instantly Wells up, I think I cut it very deep.
I turn and I see Selene standing there looking smug.
"That's right you gutter slum, that's what you get for embarrassing me"
My hand hurts so bad, and am losing a lot of blood.
A store attendant comes forward and begins to help me up.
People are watching.
I just smile through my pain.
"It's actually pathetic that as beautiful as you are you do not know how to use pronoun"
She frowns.
"Gutter and slum means the same thing, bozo, maybe you should check your dictionary sometime"
I say this and the store attendant chuckles.
Selene growls and walks away.
Now that she is gone I almost cry.
My hand hurts so bad.
I feel my self getting dizzy.
Oh hell.

MAGIC.
Walking around with a big gauze on my hand is not fun.
I mean Am so embarrassed.
I can't believe Selene got the slip on me like that, ugh.
Am trying to make dinner with one hand.

Guess what?
It's not working.
I power through and finally concoct something.
I set the table and I ring the bell, I stand with my hand behind my back.
It's late in the evening so all of them should be back.
I don't want to have to explain to everyone that I was attacked by Selene
They all come down and I greet
"Hey magic, did you get the grapes?"
That was Justin, I nod.
"They are right on the table"
"Thanks little one"
He takes his seat, julliet and Alec does too.
Justice enters and takes his seat.
I feel my chest swell with an unknown emotion..
He looks so handsome .
He speaks without turning to me.

"Why aren't you sitting magic?"
Oops.
I didn't think of that.
I quickly make an excuse.
"Am going to eat in my room"
All eyes turn to me, even Alec drops the yam he was nibbling on.
So much for incognito magic.
You idiot.
"What's wrong?"
Julliet asks.
"Are you sick? Or wait, are you angry at any of us?"
She looks close to crying.
Jeez.
Where did she come up with that?
"No, no, I don't hate anybody, I mean am not angry at anybody and am not sick, I just want to be alone"
"Why?"
Justin asks and I almost growl in frustration.
Do I need an excuse to be alone?
"Itty bitty, what's wrong?"
I sigh.
"Nothing, am just..."
"What happened to your hand"
Alec asks.
In my nervousness I brought my hand forward to wring.
I can see some speck of blood , I think I pulled my stitches.
Magic, you slowpoke.
Justice seats up and points a finger at me then at the seat beside him.
I quickly take my seat.
"Now, tell me Emilia, what Happened to your hand?"
I spout out everything and when am done I take a deep breath.
"Let me get this straight, Selene attacked you?"
I nod
Justice asks calmly and I nod, he is so calm so am positive he won't be angry.
Am also sure he won't think am a pushover.
"Selene attacked you and you didn't instantly call me, you even went to the hospital by yourself, stitched your palm by yourself without me there,"
"Uh oh"
Julliet says
I nod my head,. I don't know if he is asking a question or stating a fact, i just nod again.
His voice is rising and I don't think that's a good thing.
I shift back in my seat.
"First off baby girl, you do not get hurt, secondly, you tell me when someone threatens you, and thirdly, Selene is dead"
"Justice...."
That was Justin.
"You can't kill Selene, it's going to take a lot of work to hide her body"
"I don't fucking care"
I almost gasp, they are talking about killing a woman like they are discussing the weather.
"Let's think about this guy's, my son is sitting here, I don't want him to think violence is the best answer"
"Violence....awesome"
That was Alec, julliet is also not surprised.
Am wondering, are they used to this?.
"Justin, get me Selene's location now"
Justice says and Justin leaves, nodding.
What?
Wait, his family knows about Selene but not what she did?
It must be hard keeping such a secret to himself.
I open my mouth, his eyes cut to me in anger.
Ok.....
"Justice,...."
I start.
"Not now itty bitty"
I scowl.
"You did it again, you used your name for me in anger".
He turns to me.
"You do not get to do that right now magic, you made a mistake when you refused to call me as soon as you were hurt
You do not get to be angry, you do not get to make me feel guilty, you as well as hell do not get to be hurt without I f-king doing something!"
He used the f word twice now he must be angry.
I almost slap myself.
Of course he is angry magic.
"Can we stop cussing?, My son is sitting right here"
Alec just stuffs more yam down his throat and watches the drama.
I don't know what made me do what I did next.
Oh wait.
I know.
Am sick of the tension.
I frown and he raises an eyebrow, I scrunch my face up and I let the water works start.
I cry so hard.
He falls for it.
Jackpot.
"Baby....."
He pulls me from my chair and into his lap.
"You don't have to cry"
I sniffle .
"You don't have to hurt Selene, well not physically"
I glance at at julliet and she gives me an hidden thumbs up.
I go on.
"We don't have to stoop so low as to hurt her, we can just take something dear from her".
He Pat's my hair.
"Are you going to cry?"
I shake my head.
Justin enters.
"I peg her location at her family mansion, seems they are having some type of soiree, she Is planning"
What?
How did he get that so fast?

"That's it"
Julliet says
"That's what?"
I ask through my fake tears.
"We get you to the party tomorrow evening"
She says.
"Yes that's right, you go and justice deals with her from there."
Am not comprehending.
This family, seems thier mind works together.
"Yes, that's what we will do, I am I was sent an invitation"
What?
He turns to me, justice.
"Get ready bitty, we are going to a party"
Who are this people?

***

Read episode 19 & 20 @-: www.dapalace.com

Protected
By Bebe Ernest
Episode 21

After that announcement last night I was shook.
Dinner countinued as usual.
If I was someone else I would probably be scared for Selene.
Justice got this looks in eyes and I knew all hell will be let loose soon.
Damn.
And here I was my greatest fear was not to be mocked.

It's the next morning.
I am in the kitchen, as always making breakfast, am trying to toast some bread and fry some bacon.
It's going smoothly.
After breakfast I go to my room. And I start watching TV.
What ever justice said yesterday about a party must have been a joke.
I settle into my bed and I almost burst out laughing because the movie was a comedy.
Oh I so love my white movies.
I was getting to the best part when my door burst open.
Sandra and julliet and another lady sweeps into my room, acting for all the world like it's there's.

What now? cue Rihanna's voice.

"Hello Ma Cherie"
That was sandra, i get up and kiss her cheek.

"Hi, Sandra, julliet"
I turn to the other lady.
"Oh, magic, this is Tamara, my cousin"

(So who remembers this lady? Comment.)

I exchange greetings and I see that they have a big garment bag with them.
I open my mouth to ask but julliet beats me to it.
"Tamara, is a stylist, she is good with make up and colours"
Ok....
That's cool but what's my business?
She answers my unspoken thought.
"You are going to a party with justice, you have to look the part."
Are these people for real?
"Are you guys for real?"
"I don't know what that mean but yes, we are real."
That was sandra, I shake my head, this is so strange.
I take everything in, Sandra is perched on my bed, julliet is standing in front of my dresser and the lady Tamara is going through my design pad.
Well what?

"Isn't it too early to start dressing up? I mean it's just past 12"
They look at there selves and burst out laughing.
Ok.....
"No bella, getting ready is never too early, well come on, you have to get your hair done"
That was Tamara, she pulls me in the direction of my bathroom.
Before I know it I am being undressed, my hair is being fried, ok maybe not fried but it felt like it.
My nails are getting polished, my legs are waxed.
That thing hurt so bad.
I am plied with chocolate and gossip.
I found out Tamara is a mother of one, she lives with her boyfriend they love themselves but they are not married, his mother is a witch.
I find out that Julliet went through a tough time when she first arrived in Nigeria from the states.
(If you wanna find out, refer to my first novel(The Homecoming), can't talk about here)
She had a really tough time.

Then finally I find out that Sandra has had a crush on Justin forever.
Well what!

"I mean the first time I knew I was in love with him was when he helped me from the rain about 2 years ago,
He covered me with his jacket, it was so hot, I wished he would have kissed me."
Sandra gushes and I almost die, I blush deeply, talking about k-sing and any form of intimacy is still a tricky subject for me.
They notice my blush.
Of course.
"Tell me bella, you've never k-sed justice?"
Tamara asks and I blush.
"Eww, Tammy,.that's my brother"
"Oh shush girl"
Sandra says.
"Well? Tell us, I want to know too." julliet says
I shake my head.
"Oh come on, don't be shy"
That's Tamara .

"I have k-sed him.."
I say hesitatingly

"Ohhhh"
The three of them say and lean from there seat.
"Well go on"
"But am scared that I don't know how to do it properly"
I say and they lean back.
Well....
"Am sure you are superb at it"
Julliet says.
"Really?"
I ask insecurely.
"Yeah baby girl, I mean the man is smitten with you"
Sandra says
I smile and blush.
"Yeah am sure he is, I mean wait, how am i sure? I feel like I am not up to standards, he is rich I am poor."
"Don't let him hear you say that sweets, you are a Maxwells now, even if it doesn't work out, you will always be a Maxwell,
You don't have to care what people will think, he never says sorry for his decision, he has never, he will never"
Julliet says and I am reassured.
But wait.
"He never says sorry?"
I ask.
"He never, not ever"
"But he told me sorry the other day"
All eyes turns to me in surprise and scepticism.
"Justice told you sorry?"
I nod.
"Oh my God magic, you totally tamed my brother."
Julliet says and I smile in confusion.
"Voila"
Tamara says and she turns me to the mirror, she has been working on my make-up.
I look at my self and it takes me a while to realize the reflection am staring at is actually my self.
I look so beautiful, yes I do, and am me.
I turn and I feel tears rush to the surface.
"No no, you can't cry, you look too beautiful to cry"
Sandra says and I smile.
"Thank you so much for this, I love you guys."
"We love you too"
We hug and share a moment.
"And for the dress..."
Julliet produces a long red dress.
I gasp.
It's an original Michael kors.
"I can't wear that, it's sacred"
They roll there eyes.
"We know you are a cloth freak magic but you tots deserve this, it is a limited edition"
Ok, that was not helping the case.
I take a deep breath and I grab the gown I walk to the bathroom and I change.
When I come out I feel like am walking on air.
They look at me in awe and am nervous.
I step in front of the mirror and I look at myself.
The gown is blood red, it has a droopy back and front, you can see the dimple on my back side.
It's rightly scandalous.
I love it.
The front is embedded with little pearls, I was showing a lot of cleavage.
I love it.
I smile at the girls.
Julliet produces a silver high heel and I feel like Cinderella.
I wear it and I totter on the heels, I almost fall..

I looove it.
I wear studded pearl earrings anda dropping pearl necklace a diamond bracelet all provided by julliet.
I almost cry, I look prettier than Cinderella.
I turn and I hug them again.
This time Sandra hands me a silver clutch purse and am set.
Through all this I can see it's almost 9 in the evening.
Ha.
Now i see why they wanted us to start early.
I walk downstairs with the girls leading me.
I gasp inaudibly.
He looks so handsome in his black tux and black inner shirt.
He turns to me and I forget to breath.
He is staring at me and I am immediately nervous.
He takes my hand when I get to the last step and he raises it to his lips and k-ses my palm.
"You look beautiful bitty"
I blush and he k-ses my cheek.
"So you ready to kick Selene's butt?"
I smile and nod.
Tonight will be a good night.

The Fault in our Romance Episode 15
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
*************************************
(At the studio)
(Stephen arrives with Bethany)

Stephen: See, You look much better. How do you feel?

Bethany: Angry. I just wasted four hours getting ready.

Stephen: Just shake it off. (He sees the photographers from a distance) They're here already.

Bethany: (excitedly) Okay.

(Bethany goes to meet the photographer)

Bethany: Good afternoon Mr Mitchell.

Photographer 1: Afternoon Miss Bethany Sanders. Are you ready for your photo shoot?

Bethany: (grins widely) I sure am.

(Bethany stands in the spotlight)

Photographer 1: Give us some hips.

Photographer 2: And some smile.

Photographer 3: Turn this way, Miss Bethany. You'll look better from this angle.

(The photographers keep on taking pictures of Bethany as she poses for the camera)

Alex: (watches Bethany) Wow. She looks damn sexy...

Stephen: Hey. That's my girlfriend.

Alex: (gently punches his arm) I'm just kidding bro. But seriously, I haven't seen any girl as beautiful as Bethany.

Stephen: Yeah... (Just then, He zones out as he remembers Silvania)

Alex: Is something wrong?

Stephen: (shakes his head) No, not at all.... I'll be in the restroom

(Stephen goes to the restroom and angrily bangs his fist on the wall)

Stephen: Argh! (He looks into the mirror) Why can't I forget her?

(Meanwhile)
(Sir Griffin's mansion)
(In the library - Lucas cleans the windows while Silvana arranges the books on the shelves)

Lucas: We got lucky. We should thank God that Sir Stephen's a nice man or else we would have been sacked by now.

Silvania: I'm very sorry, Lucas. I didn't know where else to throw the dirty water.

Lucas: You should've asked me. Look, If you don't understand anything, Just ask. And I'll help you.

Sivania: Alright. I will next time.

Lucas: That's better. (He looks at the windows) Good, They're sparkling now.

Silvania: Can i ask you something?

Lucas: Sure.

Silvania: The human girl I accidentally poured water on, The girl that was with Stephen.... Who is she?

Lucas: Ohhh, That's Sir Stephen's fianceé, Bethany. She's a top model in Hillwood City. Most guys would do anything to date her but she chose Stephen. Lucky guy.

Silvania: (shocked) Stephen has a fianceé?

Lucas: Yup. Why do you sound so suprised?

Silvania: Because I am. (disturbed) I thought he was single.

Lucas: Well, Now you know he's not. (He finishes cleaning) Finally! I'm done here, The attic is next. Come on, Let's go.

Silvania: Just go. I'll meet you there.

(As Lucas leaves the library, Silvania looks around in distress)

(Meanwhile)
(In the sea - The Mer kingdom)
(At Donald's house)

Beatrice: Donald, Please just try and eat....

Donald: I don't want to eat.

Beatrice: But how will you get your strength if you don't eat?

(Just then, Simon enters the house)

Simon: I'm back Mom. I collected the sea kale.

Donald: Is that Simon?

Simon: Yes Dad, It's me.

Beatrice: (To Simon) Put them on the mushroom table.

Simon: (he drops the sea kale and notices his father's weariness) What's wrong with Dad?

Beatrice: I don't know, He's getting weaker and paler. I've been trying to feed him but he's not eating. And he hasn't eaten since two days.

Simon: Let me try...

(Simon tries to feed his father some sea worms but he vomits it)

Beatrice: (crying) If someone had told me Silvania would do this to me, I wouldn't have believed. Even after I warned her not to ever go up to the surface, She didn't listen. Now we're all suffering the consequences of her actions.

(That evening)
(At Sir Griffin's house)
(Stephen and Bethany relaxes on the couch while watching TV)

Bethany: (she rests on Stephen's chest) The photoshoot was exhausting, I'm really famished.

Stephen: Me too. But the cook is preparing something for us to eat.

Bethany: Mmmm, I hope it's porridge. I love porridge.

Stephen: Nahh, It's gravy.

Bethany: It's just as good. (She stands up from the couch) I need to go to the restroom, I'll be back.

Stephen: Okay babe.

Bethany: Stay handsome.

(She goes out of the living room)

(Meanwhile)
(In the storeroom)

Lucas: We're done for today, Thank God! Cleaning isn't as easy as I thought it would be. (He notices Silvania isn't paying any attention to him and he snaps his fingers in her face ) Hello? Silvania?

Silvania: (looks at him) Oh sorry Lucas. I zoned out.

Lucas: Yah, I noticed. What were you thinking about?

(Outside the storeroom, Bethany passes by from the toilet and overhears their conversation then puts her ear to the door)

Silvania: I was thinking about Stephen....

(Bethany gasps on hearing this)

Lucas: Wow. Is this how it is when someone falls in love?

Silvania: Yes. Haven't you fallen in love before?

Lucas: Nah, I don't believe in love. I just feel like it's surreal to most people. (he looks at Silvania) No offense.

Silvania: None taken. (sighs) Well, I really love Stephen and matter how hard I try, I can't stop loving him. But it'll be overly difficult to get him to realize I'm the Silvania who rescued him with this face that's entirely different from my real face. (She pinches her cheeks angrily)

Lucas: Don't worry, Stephen will definitely notice you one day...

Bethany: (gasps in shock) What the hell!

(Bethany angrily pushes the door open. Silvania and Lucas see her)

Bethany: (glares at Silvania) Oh, It's you! (She viciously grabs Silvania and pulls her out of the storeroom)

Silvania: Let go of me, What are you doing?!

Bethany: Shut the hell up! I heard everything you and that little boy were discussing about in there.

Lucas: (he tries to free Silvania from Bethany's grip) Hey! Leave her alone!

Bethany: Get out of here you little rat! (She pushes him away)

Silvania: (defensively) Don't call him that.

Bethany: (she tightens her hold on Silvania, sinking her long pointy fingernails into her skin) I'm not done with you yet....

Silvania: Owww, You're hurting me....

Bethany: I will do more than hurt you! How dare you say that you're in love with my fiancé? Your boss? Do you even have any self respect at all?!

Silvania: (boldly) Yes! I admit to what I said. I do love Stephen, And I'm not afraid to say it again!

(Bethany furiously swings her arm at Silvania, slapping her across the face. Then she grabs Silvania by her elbow once more)

Bethany: Listen here you dirty lowlife, I know you're one of those harlots who go around pretending to be helpless girls just so they can snatch other men but I am the wrong one, If you make any move on my fiancé...(she grits her teeth angrily) I will rip you apart. Thank God I overheard your plans to get your claws on him. If you ever get close to Stephen... I will have you locked up in jail. Got it?

(She thumps Silvania and pushes her to the floor)

Bethany: Bitch!

Lucas: (points at her) You're the bitch!

(Stephen enters the hallway)

Stephen: What's going on here? (To Bethany) I heard voices. What happened?

Bethany: This girl you employed as a cleaner said she's in love with you, Can you imagine that?

Stephen: And what did you do?

Bethany: I gave her a warning.

Lucas: A warning? (To Stephen) She attacked us and called us names. (He helps Silvania up from the floor)

Stephen: Bethany you shouldn't have done that.

Bethany: I had to. I'm definitely sure she's one of those girls who go around stealing other people's men, I can't allow any wench to ruin my marriage plans by snatching my man from me, Few months to my wedding!

Stephen: (reassuringly) Look, No matter what happens....It's you i'll always love, You and no one else. And nothing's going to change that. Okay?

Bethany: (she glances at Silvania) Okay.

(Stephen pulls Bethany into a deep kiss in Silvania's presence and she stares at them with teary eyes)

To be Continued

The Fault in our Romance Episode 14
(He's a human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
*************************************
(At the quarters)
(Silvania wakes up from her sleep with a scream)

Silvania: Ahhh! (She holds her chest as she sighs in relief) Thank God. It was just a dream.

(Lucas wakes up as well)

Lucas: Uhhh, What's the matter this time?

Silvania: I had a very bad dream, A nightmare! I dreamt that I revealed myself to Stephen and he was horrified that I was a mermaid...

Lucas: Really? That happened?

Silvania: Yes. I'm so happy it wasn't real.

Lucas: Maybe It'll be wise if don't let him know what you really are.

Silvania: (she nods her head and touches her amulet) I won't.

(Next Morning)
(In Sir Griffin's room)

Sir Griffin: Good morning sweetheart.

Veronica: Morning darling.

(She attempts to kiss him but he puts his hand on her mouth)

Sir Griffin: Morning breath.

Veronica: (chuckles) Oh yeah.

Sir Griffin: Did you sleep well?

(Just then, Veronica holds her hand over mouth as if she wants to puke)

Sir Griffin: What's the matter honey?

Veronica: (mumbles) I'll be back

(Veronica runs to the toilet to vomit and Sir Griffin follows her)

Sir Griffin: Are you ok?

Veronica: I don't think so, I feel weak and nauseous.

Sir Griffin: It's probably Malaria. I should take you to the hospital

Veronica: There's no need for that, I'm....

(She quickly puts her face back in the toilet bowl and keeps on vomiting)

Sir Griffin: (pats her) I have to get you to the hospital quickly.

(Meanwhile)
(At the foster home)
(Lucas goes there to pack some of his belongings)

Bobby: Lucas! Welcome home, We haven't seen you since yesterday, Where were you?

Lucas: Well... I got a job at Sir Griffin's mansion as a cleaner, I'm gonna be paid $500 per month.

Bobby: Woah... That's so much money.

Lucas: Yup.

Bobby: Does Mr Blackwell know about this?

Lucas: Of course he does and he's approved of me working there. I just came home to pack some of my things, I'll be staying over there for a while.

Bobby: Wow, You'll be living in his mansion?

Lucas: Actually, I'll be staying at the quarters.

Thompson: It's good you're leaving for a while, There'll be a lot of space in here.

Lucas: I know you're gonna miss me too, Thompson. (He takes out candy bars and throws them to Bobby, Williams and Patrick)

Bobby, Williams & Patrick: Thanks.

Lucas: It's just a little something to remember me buy. (He throws another candy bar to Thompson) That's one for you too, Thompson.

Thompson: (looks at the candy bar) Chunky. (To Lucas) Thanks anyway.

Lucas: You're welcome. Good bye guys.

Thompson, Bobby, Williams & Patrick: Bye Lucas.

(Hillwood Central Hospital)
(Sir Griffin takes Veronica to the hospital for some tests to be run on her)

Veronica: I'm so nervous. What'd you think the test results will say?

Sir Griffin: I have no idea, Let's just hope for good news.

(Doctor Mike comes out from a ward)

Sir Griffin: So Doctor, What'd the results say?

Doctor Mike: Congratulations Sir Griffin, Your wife is two and a half weeks pregnant

Sir Griffin: (happily) Wow...

Veronica: (screams in excitement) Woah. I can't believe it, This is great news!!!

Doctor Mike: Indeed Madam. You should start your antenatal care treatments in about a month

Sir Griffin: That's not a problem, Doctor. Thank you so much.

Doctor Mike: My pleasure. (He leaves the ER)

Sir Griffin: (To Veronica) We should start preparing. I should go buy baby items, diapers, baby wipes, formulas, unisex baby clothes, Since we don't know the gender of our baby yet....

Veronica: Calm down honey, Isn't it too early?

Sir Griffin: Its not. (cheerfully) We're having a baby!

(In the ocean - The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)

Suzanne: I wonder why you're moody today, Marianna. (laughs) I'm sure you miss torturing Silvania.

Princess Marianna: I don't give a heck about that useless mermaid. (smiles) My mind is on that gorgeous human, I'm dying to see him again.

Suzanne: You know, Silvania became human by going to meet Anika, The mermaid who practices magic.

Princess Marianna: I know but I wouldn't dare try that. My father would kill me! (She lays on her oyster bed) But I know I'll meet him one day.

(That afternoon)
(Hillwood City)
(At Sir Griffin's mansion)

Silvania: I wonder how I'm gonna go this, I don't know how to clean with a mop and a bucket.

Lucas: Leave it to me. You could just be helping me to get clean water.

Silvania: Okay. (She takes a bucket to use to fetch water)

(Downstairs)
(Bethany arrives at the house)

Bethany: I'm here.

Stephen: Hmm, You look glamorous. (He pecks her on the cheek)

Bethany: Thank you.

Stephen: We need to get to the studio right away for your photo shoot.

Bethany: Yeah... (smiles) That's why I spent four hours getting ready. I want to look perfect in every Silk Hair product.

Stephen: (chuckles) You already are perfect.

Bethany: (giggles) You're flattery.

(Upstairs)
(At the balcony)

Lucas: Ok, I'm done cleaning. Silvania, Help me get rid of the dirty water.

Silvania: Okay. (She carries the dirty water to the balcony)

Lucas: Silvania wait...

(Silvania pours the dirty water downstairs from the balcony and it pours directly on Bethany)

Bethany: (screams) Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!

Stephen: What the heck... (He looks up) Silvania!

(Silvania and Lucas look downstairs and sees that the water poured on Bethany)

Lucas: Silvania, What have you done?

(Silvania and Lucas run downstairs to meet Bethany and Stephen)

Silvania: I'm so so sorry Miss, I didn't know you were downstairs.

Bethany: (enraged) You did this?!

Silvania: It was an accident...

Bethany: (growls) Rah!

(Bethany tries to attack Silvania but Stephen holds her firmly)

Stephen: Calm down, calm down...

Bethany: I took four hours to get ready and this idiot ruined my dress, my hair, shoes and my make up and you're asking me to calm down?!!!

Silvania: (remorsefully) I'm really sorry...

Bethany: (viciously) SHUT UP!!!

Stephen: Bethany, Let's just go inside so you can have a shower. Then I'll call someone to fix you up before the time for the photo shoot.

(Stephen stares at Silvania as he takes an enraged Bethany into the house)

Silvania: (scared) Oh no, What have I done? I don't want to get fired.... (She looks on agitatedly)

To be Continued

The Fault in our Romance Episode 13
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
***********************************
(Sir Griffin's mansion)
(In the kitchen)

Silvania: (excitedly) Stephen... It's you (she touches him)

Stephen: (puzzled) Uhhh, Do I know you?

Silvania: It's me....

Stephen: (he stares at her face, trying to recognize her ) I can't recollect, Have we met before?

Silvania: (she stares at him, devastated that he can't recognize her) But...

(Just then, The driver, Richard, enters the kitchen)

Stephen: (To Richard) Who are they? (He points at Lucas and Silvania) And how did they get in here?

Richard: Umm, Sir. They actually came here to apply for the cleaning job. They probably saw the vacancy outside.

Silvania & Lucas: (confused) We did?

Richard: Yes. (He looks at them, giving them a sign to cooperate)

Lucas: Oh yeah, We did. We're here for the job as cleaners. When we came into the house we didn't see anyone so we were just looking around. Right, Silvania? (He looks at her)

Silvania: (she tries to fake a smile despite being devastated) Yeah....

Lucas: I'm Lucas. And this is Silvania.

Silvania: (despondently) Hi.

Stephen: (thinks) Silvania.... That name sounds familiar. (To Lucas & Silvania) Alright, In that case, You two are hired. I'll let my Dad know when he returns.

Lucas: Aren't you going to test us?

Stephen: No need, It's cleaning... Anybody can do it (To Richard) Just direct them to their stations and give them their uniforms.

Lucas: Wait... How much is our pay?

Stephen: $500 monthly. If that's okay.

Lucas: That's so much money compared to how much I earn walking Mr Felix's dogs (grins) That's VERY okay, Sir.

Stephen: Alright then. You both will start work tomorrow.

(Stephen takes a bottle of champagne from the refrigerator)

Stephen: (to his German shepherd dog) Come on, Max....

(Stephen and the dog leaves the kitchen)

Lucas: (To Richard) Thanks for saving us. I'm Lucas and this is Silvania.

Silvania: (sadly) Hey.

Richard: Hey. I'm Richard by the way, This house's official driver. Anyways, Follow me.

(Richard takes Silvania and Lucas to the room with all the cleaning materials)

Richard: Here's where all the materials you both will be using are. I'll be back with your uniforms.

(He leaves them)

Silvania: (she sits on a bucket) I don't why Stephen couldn't remember me....

Lucas: You said you rescued him from drowning while you were a mermaid right?

Silvania: Yeah?

Lucas: That's why he couldn't remember you. Because when you became human, You had a completely different face because your magical amulet altered your real face...

Silvania: (she touches her face) Ohhh, Yes! That's true, No wonder he was staring at me strangely... So the only way I can prove to Stephen that I'm the one who saved him is by revealing myself to him as a mermaid... (She touches her amulet) And I will.

(Later that night)
(Sir Griffin and Veronica return home)

Stephen: Welcome home, Dad. How was your date?

Sir Griffin: It went well.

(Silvania and Lucas come out of the storeroom)

Silvania & Lucas: Good evening Sir. Good evening ma'am.

Sir Griffin: Who are you people?

Stephen: They're the new cleaners.

Sir Griffin: You hired them without my permission?

Stephen: We put a vacancy outside, They saw it and came in here for the job. Why wouldn't I have hired them?

Sir Griffin: You should've informed me first. (To Veronica) What do you think sweetheart?

Veronica: Well, As far as they're making this house better... I'm fine with them.

Sir Griffin: Alright then. (To Silvania and Lucas) You can stay.

Silvania & Lucas: Thank you sir.

Sir Griffin: When did you start working?

Lucas: Oh, We haven't started yet. We'll start tomorrow.

Sir Griffin: Ok then. You both can stay in the quarters, To make things easier for you. (To Richard) Show them their quarters.

Richard: Yes sir.

(Richard takes Silvania and Lucas to their quarters)

Silvania: (amazed) Wow. This room is ginormous. (She sits on the bed) And this feels so comfortable.

Richard: This is where you'll be staying. You can relax in here, rest after cleaning, while away time.... You can do just anything you want in here, Just don't spoil any object.

Lucas: We won't.

Richard: Work starts tomorrow.

(He leaves the room)

Lucas: This is so amazing. (He checks the clock on the wall) Its 7:56pm, It's almost time to light the fireworks (To Silvania) Do you wanna come with with me?

Silvania: No, Don't worry about me. I'll just stay here and fantasize about Stephen (she lays on the bed, smiling)

Lucas: Alright then. See you later. (He leaves the room)

(In the ocean - The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)

King Jerod: How are you sweetheart?

Princess Marianna: Tired! Ever since that scummy mermaid left, I've been doing everything by myself. I need another handmaid, Daddy.

King Jerod: I'll make sure to get you one, Okay?

Princess Marianna: Yes Daddy. (smiles)

(A guard brings in a merman)

King Jerod: What has this merman done?

Guard: He was caught stealing.

Merman: Forgive me my King, I promise, I'll never do it again! Please!

(King Jerod turns to his daughter, Marianna)

King Jerod: What do you think I should do to him sweetheart?

(The merman looks at Princess Marianna in fear)

Princess Marianna: The most befitting punishment would be to cut off one of his hands, strap him to a rock and let your strongest guards whip him 60 strokes day and night and also release the piranhas so they can have a taste of his flesh. Do this to him for a week and he'll never ever think of stealing again! (She smiles menacingly at the merman)

King Jerod: (to the guard) You heard what your princess said?

Guard: Yes my King.

King Jerod: Then do just that.

Merman: (screams) NO!!! MY KING, PLEASE!!!

(The guards drag the merman away to face his punishment)

King Jerod: (smirks) You are sinister.

Princess Marianna: Oh please, I was even nice to have said they should cut off just ONE of his hands. This is how you should handle your subjects and anyone who goes against your laws. (with sincerity) It's better to be feared than to be loved.

King Jerod: I'm very happy you took after me, My daughter.

Princess Marianna: (she smiles with content)

(Later that night)
(In Stephen's room)
(He stares at the sketch he made of Silvania)

Stephen: (thinks) Why is it that the Silvania I employed and the Silvania that rescued me talks similar and have the same name? But they can't be the same person, I mean, They don't even have the same face. (He stares harder at the sketch) Why do I feel that she's so close...

(Just then, Someone knocks on the door and Stephen puts away the sketch)

Stephen: Come in.

(The person enters his room - It's Silvania)

Stephen: Silvania? What're you doing here? Shouldn't you be at your quarters?

Silvania: Sir Stephen, There's something I have to tell you.

Stephen: What is it?

Silvania: (sighs) I'm the girl who rescued you from drowning, I may look different because of this amulet I'm wearing which changed my appearance physically but this isn't my true face.

Stephen: (confused) I don't understand... How do you mean?

Silvania: (sings) �� Upon one summer's morning, I carefully did stray down by the Walls of Wapping, Where I met a sailor gay. Conversing with a young lass, Who seemed to be in pain, Saying, William, when you go, I fear you'll ne'er return again.....My heart is pierced by Cupid, I disdain all glittering gold, There is nothing can console me, But my jolly sailor bold ��

Stephen: (suprised) Your voice....

(Silvania takes off her amulet and sits on his bed as her legs fuses back into a golden-orange tail, regaining her original face as well)

Silvania: (smiles) I'm Silvania.

Stephen: (horrified) You're a mermaid.... You're disgusting....

Silvania: (surprised by his reaction) What? Stephen, Its me, Silvania. Remember my face...

Stephen: (fearfully) I don't care about your face! You're a monster!

(Stephen backs away from her in horror)

Silvania: I'm not dangerous, I won't harm you!

Stephen: I have to call the security, To get rid of this monstrosity. (He takes her amulet, to prevent her to turning back to a human)

Silvania: (scared) Stephen what are you doing? STEPHEN!

(Stephen runs out of the room and locks the door, trapping her inside)

To be Continued

Thank u all for reading this story, I love you all! kisses.
Don't forget to visit www.dapalace.com for more intriguing stories

The Fault in Our Romance
(He's a human, She's a mermaid)
Episode 12
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
**************************************
(Underwater)
(The Mer Kingdom)
(Beatrice continuously tries to get her husband, Donald to open his eyes)

Beatrice: (crying) Has the pain reduced? Can you open your eyes? Can you see?

(Donald eventually opens his eyes and they're colorless)

Donald: (worriedly) No, I can't see...

Beatrice: No, no, no... (crying profusely) I don't know why Silvania would do this to us.... We gave her everything she ever wanted, What more could she possibly be looking for?

(Simon stares at her with guilt before he eventually speaks up)

Simon: Mom, There's something you should know.

Beatrice: (without looking at him) What is that?

Simon: Before she left, Silvania has been going up to the surface. She rescued a human being from drowning and she fell in love with him. (He sighs deeply) I told her about a mermaid who practices juju and she went to meet her and the mermaid gave Silvania an amulet which could enable her to turn human....

Beatrice: (she turns and stares at him in utter shock) How could you and your sister do this to me?

Simon: I'm really sorry Mother.

Beatrice: (She looks away from him without knowing what else to say)

(Meanwhile)
(In Hillwood City)
(Lucas brings some clothes to Silvania)

Silvania: (she wears them) Thank you.

Lucas: You're welcome.

Silvania: The surface looks so nice.

Lucas: You haven't even seen the good parts of this city yet. Come on, Let me show you around.

Silvania: Okay. (She stands up and attempts to walk once again but staggers and she holds onto a nearby pole for support) Walking is so hard.

Lucas: There's nothing hard about it, Just put a foot forward, Then the other foot forward... Like that. Just walk slowly so you can get a hang of it.

(Silvania does as Lucas told her)

Silvania: (laughs) I'm doing it, I'm walking!

Lucas: See..... I told you it's not hard.

(Silvania takes a few steps but falls down face flat )

Lucas: Eishhh....You just need a little practice.

(Later that night)
(Lucas and Silvania take a walk along a street)

Silvania: The city is indeed beautiful. So where do you live?

Lucas: I live at a foster home. It's the house where I was raised by my foster father, Mr Blackwell.

Silvania: What about your real parents?

Lucas: I don't know where they are. Mr Blackwell told me they kept me at the foster care when I was a baby but they left a note with me which says "We'll meet again one day"

Silvania: (sighs) I just remembered my parents, I wonder what they might be going through now....

Lucas: They're probably missing you.

Silvania: Or they're hating me for choosing to follow my heart.

Lucas: (perplexed) Huh?

Silvania: I fell in love with a human. He's the reason I became human.

Lucas: Who is he?

(Just then, Stephen and Alex drives past Silvania and Lucas in a car. Silvania spots him)

Silvania: (suprised) Stephen? (excitedly) Stephen!

(Silvania runs off, chasing after Stephen's car)

Lucas: Silvania! What's the matter with you?! (He chases after her)

Silvania: (while running after the car) STEPHEN!!!

(In the ocean - The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle, In Prince Erik's room)

Princess Marianna: You're still sulking?

Prince Erik: I just feel really bad for Silvania's parents. They're going through a lot.

Princess Marianna: Yup. And it's all because of her. Do you know that the reason she became human is because she has fallen in love with another human being?

Prince Erik: (stares at her for a moment) Are you being serious or you're just trying to speak ill of her?

Princess Marianna: What would I gain by doing that? It is the truth. You can even ask anyone else, They'll tell you. You loved Silvania with all your heart but yet she never even loved you....(scoffs) That's pitiful

(Meanwhile)
(Stephen and Alex arrives at Sir Griffin's mansion)

Security guard: Welcome back sir.

Stephen: Is my father home?

Security guard: No sir.

Stephen: Alright. Make sure you lock the gates.

Security guard: Yes sir.

(Stephen and Alex go into the house)

(Few minutes later)
(Silvania arrives at Sir Griffin's mansion. Lucas follows her)

Silvania: Stephen! Stephen!

Lucas: Silvania, We can't be here! We have to go!

Silvania: Not yet. Stephen is inside, I have to see him!

(The security guard angrily comes out of the gate)

Security man: Hey, hey... What's your problem miss?

Silvania: I want to see Stephen.

Security guard: Did you tell him you were coming to see him?

Silvania: Just let me in!

(She tries to pass through the gate but the security guard blocks her path)

Security guard: If you do not leave here on the count of three, I'll call the police and have you thrown in jail for infringement. One!

Lucas: Silvania, Let's go.

Security guard: Two!

(Lucas and a reluctant Silvania leave)

Lucas: What's your problem? We could've gotten arrested for what you just did. Things aren't done this way on land, You can't just run after someone and try to enter their home, It isn't proper here.

Silvania: I'm really sorry, I didn't know. I just wanted to see Stephen...

Lucas: The son of Sir Griffin? The most famous man in Hillwood City.... What business do you have with him?

Silvania: Remember when I was telling you about the human I fell in love with...

Lucas: Uh-Huh

Silvania: (blushes) Stephen is that human.

Lucas: It may be almost impossible for you to get to Stephen. He doesn't even know you.

Silvania: But If I can just see him, I'll be really happy.

Lucas: Hmm... You know, There might be another way we could get into the house (smirks)

Silvania: How?

(Silvania and Lucas jumps into compound through the fence)

Lucas: We're in.

Silvania: (excitedly) Yay!

(They sneak to the backdoor and enter into the house, through the kitchen)

Silvania: (looks around) Whoa.... This house is huge. I wonder what this room is called.

Lucas: It's called a kitchen.

Silvania: We don't have "kitchens" in the Mer Kingdom. (She sees the forks and spoons arranged in their racks) I wonder what those are.

Lucas: They're cutleries. We use them to eat.

Silvania: In the Mer Kingdom, We use our hands.

Lucas: (sighs) It's gonna take a while before you adjust to your life on land.

Silvania: I know.

(Silvania and Lucas hear low angry growls. They turn around to see a large German shepherd dog)

Silvania: (severely frightened) Oh my goodness, What is that creature?

Lucas: Relax, It's a dog. (He slowly approaches the dog) Easy boy, We're not here to harm anyone...

(Lucas pats the dog and it stops growling and shakes it's tail happily as it barks at him)

Silvania: I think he likes you.

Lucas: Yup. I'm very good with dogs.

Silvania: (looks around) I wonder where Stephen is.

(Just then, Stephen enters the kitchen, behind Silvania and Lucas)

Stephen: (he taps her on the shoulder) Miss?

(Silvania turns around to see Stephen)

Silvania: (astonished) Stephen...

To be Continued

The Fault in our Romance
(He's a human, She's a mermaid)
Episode 11
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
*********************************
(Silvania arrives at the surface of the ocean and drags herself to land)

Silvania: (breathes in deeply) This is a huge choice I'm making...

(She puts on the amulet and transforms into a naked young, slender human lady)

Silvania: Woah... It worked, I'm human! And I feel so different. (she touches her face) Anika said I'll have a different face (she checks her reflection in the water) Hmph! I don't look bad at all, I just look different.

(Silvania sees a large leaf and covers herself with it)

Silvania: (smiles) Now I have to find Stephen...

(Silvania attempts to stand up and walk but collapses back on the ground)

Silvania: (sighs) This is gonna take a while...

(Meanwhile)
(At Sir Griffin's mansion)
(Stephen sketches a drawing of Silvania, As he recalled her)

Stephen: (he stares at the sketch) I saw her. I'm very sure of it, She's the one who rescued me. She looked like an angel. (He angrily clutches to his head) And I can't stop thinking about her...

(Bethany enters his room and he quickly hides the sketch)

Bethany: Hey baby. (She pecks Stephen on the cheek) So, You wanted to see me urgently?

Stephen: Yeah, It's about a business proposal. The company in partner with my Dad's company wants you to be the model for their new product - Silk Hair.

Bethany: Okay. Sounds promising.

Stephen: So we'll meet with the company tomorrow so that you can sign a contract with them.

Bethany: That's no problem. (smiling) Don't worry. Silk Hair is soon going to have the face of a goodness on their products.

(In the ocean)
(The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)

Princess Marianna: (furiously) Ugh, I wonder why that scummy maid hasn't come yet! I'm definitely not going to merciful to her today.

Suzanne: You haven't heard?

Princess Marianna: Heard what?

Suzanne: Silvania is now a human being and she's left the ocean.

Princess Marianna: (shocked) What? Are you sure about this?

Suzanne: Affirmative. It's the rumor that's been going around in the ocean.

Princess Marianna: (she widens her eyes in realization) She must've turned human just so she could be with that human that she rescued. (she looks around in worry)

Suzanne: (notices her worried look) Are you okay?

Princess Marianna: (enraged) I fell in love with that human and I wanted him for myself and now, That worthless scummy maid gets to be with him!

(Meanwhile)
(In Hillwood City)
(Lucas goes to meet Mr Felix)

Lucas: Good afternoon Mr Felix.

Mr Felix: Hello Lucas.

Lucas: I'm here to walk your dogs.

Mr Felix: Okay but my wife took the other dogs to the vet. Only Spot is at home but don't worry, You'll walk him. (shouts) Spot!

(A large dog with spots enter to the living room)

Lucas: (he puts a collar and a leash on the dog) We're gonna have fun together, Spot. (To Mr Felix) See you later.

Mr Felix: Bye.

(Lucas takes the dog on a walk)

Lucas: (to the dog) I wonder how much I'm going to get paid since I'm walking on you today, Spot.

(Just then, The dog barks at a particular direction)

Lucas: What's wrong boy?

(The dogs keep on barking towards that direction)

Lucas: Is something there? (The dog barks louder) Wait here boy.

(Lucas ties the dog to a pole then heads towards the direction and sees Silvania covered with a leaf, trying to stand on her newly acquired feet )

Silvania: Hi. (smiles)

Lucas: (startled) Uhhh, Who are you?

Silvania: I'm Silvania. (looks at him) You're a human as well. (She leans on a nearby rock)

Lucas: (puzzled) Yes i am..... What're you doing here?

Silvania: I just came from the Mer Kingdom, I don't really know my way around here.

Lucas: The Mer kingdom?

Silvania: Yes. The Mer kingdom. It's where all merfolks live and flourish. I'm a mermaid, I just turned human with the aid of my amulet so that I can come to your world without the fear of being harmed.

Lucas: (he stares at her in disbelief) You're a mermaid? Really? That sounds very unbelievable, As in, I am unable to believe that.

Silvania: You think I'm lying? Fine. I'll show you.

(Silvania takes off her amulet, She collapses on the ground as her legs fuses into a tail & she transforms back into a mermaid. Lucas is shocked by this)

Lucas: Whoa... Put it back on!

(Silvania wears the amulet back and reverts back to a human being)

Lucas: (amazed) Wow! You really are a real life mermaid. Wait, How come your face looked different as a mermaid?

Silvania: After I got this amulet, I was told that I'll have a different face as a human. Apparently, The amulet is supposed to change physically everything about me.

Lucas: Look, You shouldn't let anyone else know what you are, People around here see mermaids as bad luck. They'll capture or even kill you if they discover what you are.

Silvania: (she widens her eyes) Ohhh....

Lucas: Although I don't believe mermaids to be bad luck, They're just harmless creatures. Anyways, I'm Lucas.

Silvania: Nice to meet you.

Lucas: Yea. One more thing, You shouldn't be going around telling people everything about yourself. Most people can't be trusted. You know what? Just wait here... I'll come back for you.

Silvania: Uhhh, Okay.

(Back in the Mer kingdom)
(At Donald's house)

Donald: There's nothing interesting happening in our kingdom. I miss when we're usually always together, As a family. But Silvania is hardly around anymore.

Beatrice: Yeah, I haven't even seen her today, She's probably at the castle attending to the princess' needs. You know she usually leaves the house very early.

(Simon stares at them. Just then, Two castle guards barge into their house)

Donald: (confused) Guards! Is there a problem? Why did you just barge into my home like that?

Guard 1: The King has ordered us to bring all of you to the castle immediately!

Guard 2: (harshly) Let's go!

(Later)
(At the castle)
(The guards brings Donald, Beatrice and Simon into the throne room)

Donald: (bows) You sent for us my King...

King Jerod: Where is your daughter?

Donald: We believe she's here at the castle my King...

King Jerod: (he looks at Donald with a face filled with rage) Well, Donald.... Are you aware that your daughter snuck out of our kingdom early this morning to the surface of the sea? My guards just reported this to me, Even the sea creatures affirmed this.... (enraged) Silvania is now a human! She has gone against all of my laws!

(Donald and Beatrice look at each other with shock)

Donald: (pleads) Forgive us my King, Temper justice with mercy... We had no idea

Beatrice: (crying) Yes my King. We knew nothing about this.

King Jerod: Our actions have consequences, And sometimes.... On others (smirks)

(King Jerod points his trident at Donald, And a blast emerges from it which blinds Donald's eyes)

Donald: (shouts in pain) AHHHHHH!!!!

Beatrice: (crying) No!

Simon: Father!

(Prince Erik watches them with pity while Princess Marianna smiles in satisfaction)

King Jerod: That'll serve as a reward for your daughter's treachery (he addresses everyone) Let this be known to everyone! Silvania is now an enemy of this kingdom and if she ever returns.... She will be beheaded.

To be Continued

Protected
Episode 18

Justice.
I know I shouldn't laugh, I know I should scold her, what she did was wrong, that is what I should be saying but I can't.
That shit was seriously too funny.
And that thing about using her first name, Emilia? My girl is badass.
She seems to be expecting a scolding because she is wringing her hands and looking nervously at me.

I just drive.
No comment.
When we get home she comes down from the car and flees inside.
To the kitchen I presume.
I get her many packages and I take them to her room.
After this is done, (it took two trip, she didn't show up for any) I find her.
She is in the kitchen as expected, chopping cabbages.
She stops when she sees me.
I take the knife from her, no need for her to chop her fingers off.
I back her against the counter and she breaths hard, looking at everywhere except for me.
I open my mouth....
She beats me to it.
"Am sorry"
She blurts.

I raise an eyebrow.
"Why are you sorry?"
"I embarrassed you, am sorry, just that I was so mad at her, she was rubbing on you and then she brought baby Amelia up, I just got so pissed, am sorry"
I nod, it's a good thing she can admit her fault.
I stroke her hair out of her face, and I say.
"Am not scolding you magic, am just worried"
She frowns.
"Selene is a bitch, she might target you because you stood up for me and also you embarrassed her."
She nods, I countinue
"Am not saying what you did was necessarily wrong, am just saying , pick your battles baby, you are too good for the likes of Selene"
She nods and I kiss her head.
"Glad we are on the same page baby, am gonna leave you to it"
I say this and I exit the kitchen to my room, I pass by julliet's room, seems she is not around.
I go on to my room and try to get some work done, I really have to.
After a while I get in to the zone and I go through some contracts, finally getting some work done.
I hear my door open after about 2 hours, I don't raise my head, I know it's her, am attuned to her.
"Hi"
She says and I lift my head, she's standing there looking nervous.
What now?
"What wrong itty bitty?"
"Do you have a moment?"
I lift my eyebrows but I stand and go with her.
She leads me to the Green House.
What are we doing here ?
I ask.
"Not a fan of pollen baby"
"Just give me 5 minutes".
I nods.
She steps forward and brings a flower pot, in it I can see freshly dug soil and a baby sun flower.
Ok..
"This is a baby sun flower, based on what you told me seems baby Amelia would have been born in the year of the sun"
I nod, still not getting where this was going.
"This baby sun flower represents baby Amelia, we are going to nurture her untill she grows big and strong, she's ours"
I stand still not comprehending, who is this girl?.
She begins to wring her hands nervously.
"Why did you do this?"
I ask and she blinks, she looks scared, like she thinks she did something out of line.
"Tell me"
"I thought.......I ..... Thought since you lost Amelia, that you could channel some anger out of you, am not trying to say a flower can replace your baby I just..."
I pull her to me and i hug her, this girl, this woman Is going to bring me to my kneels.
No body has ever done something so thoughtful for me before.
If I was a man that cried, I would have broken down right about now.
"So....." She hesitates. "So you like it?"
"I love it magic, I love the sunflower, I love the flower pot, I love it."
She nods and hugs me closer.
I look closely at the pot and I see she even engraved Amelia in cursive writing on the flower pot.
I kiss her head.
"You are wonderful, you know"
I say this as I lead her back to the house..
When we get to the threshold of the sitting room, I pull her to me and give her a soft kiss.
She kisses me back.
I break the kiss and kiss her head.
I hear a throat clearing and I turn, I see julliet and Justin and Sage sitting on the ground, they seem to playing a board game.
Well they were playing a board game, now Justin just looks pissed.
"What's going on?"
Justin asks and I feel magic stiffen, she just notices them.
"I don't know what you mean Justin"
"I mean you practically mauling my ward in front of me"
I turn to magic, she looks close to tears.
"Go on upstairs baby"
She looks into my eyes and I nod.
"It's fine, go upstairs, I will be there soon"
I kiss her head and she leaves but not before throwing Justin and julliet a pleading look.
"Now we can talk Justin, am sure what you just witnessed was self explanatory"
"Oh yes it was, what is your game?"
He says this while standing up, sage just pulls julliet to himself and they watch.
"My game?"
I ask.
"Yes your game, she is the same girl you insulted, you degraded, what suddenly changed"
I sigh, have had enough theatrics today to last me a lifetime.
"I will admit I was harsh to the girl Justin but....."
"She is 19, your a governorship aspirant, she has nothing to offer, why?"
Ok now am getting angry.
"I very well know she is 19 Justin, I know we are not on the same social standing, oh am aware, but I don't know, I just know I want to be close to her, she is light, she is everything"
"Don't get me wrong Justice, am happy you are in love , I just don't want you to hurt the girl, she has being through too much"
I nod, but wait in love? Am not going there.
"I will Never hurt her, not intentionally"

That seems to satisfy him, he nods.
"Congrats bro"
I nod, I turn to Sage.
"Let me have it"
"That was some seriously sappy shit justice, you should check if you are still a man"
I flip him the middle finger, I can't blame him, I gave him shit too with julliet, the ass.
"Am happy for you Justy"
Julliet says.
I nod
"Gotta go make my girl know shit is alright with you guys"
They nod and I exit.
I walk upstairs and enter her room, she is playing on her phone.
I climb on the bed and position myself.
"How angry are they?"
She asks as she puts her phone away.
"They are cool"
She doesn't look like she believes me.
She opens her mouth but I beat her to it.
"You called your friend?"
She shakes her head no.
"Why?"
"Am scared," she whispers, I understand, I would be too.
"Am here baby, you can call her, I will hold you as you do"
I whisper back and she nods, she dials the number.
She places it on speaker phone.
"Hello"
The voice over the line crackles.
"Hello kele"
There is a pause and a.....
"Emily? Is that you?"

Protected
Episode 17

MAGIC.
"Do you like this one? What about that one? This one looks like it will look great on you"
He points at another gown, shoe, shirt, I almost roll my eyes, I have never in all my life seen a man that loves shopping, is he even real.
"You like shopping, don't you?"
He shakes his head no as he fingers a polo shirt, I frown dubiously.

"I don't like shopping, but I like shopping with and for you"
I blush, that was seriously sweet.
We are at the mall, we've dropped my phone with a repairer guy and he says he will be done in about 2 hours.
(So you see Fabian, they did not come to the mall to charge phone-bebe)
In the meantime he wants us to shop, I initially thought it was for him but i found out he wants to spoil me rotten, I mean when did we get to this stage?
I mean, we are wearing matching outfits, white polo shirts and blue jeans, and white sneakers, he made me put my hand in his back pocket.
'He doesn't want me to get lost', his words not mine.
Gone is the man who was so cruelly harsh to me, and in his place is a sweet, kind, loving and handsome man.
Where is justice and what have they done that him?
Is it an alien invasion?
I chuckle at my thought, he turns to me.

"So you don't like these?"
I tune in and I almost faint at what he is holding up.
He is holding a pink lace bra and panties set.
What! Where is this man from.
I quickly take it from his hand and hang it back.
"Are you embarrassed?"
"Well duh"
"You don't have to be, I have a sister remember? I have been buying these things before I could walk".
"Well am not your sister"
"Well that you aren't".
He gives me a smoldering look and I think I fainted for a minute.
He turns back to the rack and grabs the panty set and adds it to the ever growing pile.
"I didn't...."
"I know you liked it itty bitty, I could see it in your eyes"
I blush and turn away, my eyes snag on a hot pink sneakers, I want.
He seems to notice because he beckons on a shop attendant and she comes forward but not before throwing me an hostile look.
Well....
"Can we have that? In a size 7?"
She nods, all smiles for him.
He just looks indifferent as he says..
"And...." He glances at her name tag,...."Isabella, if you are rude to my girl one more time, I will buy this mall with you in it"
She pales, scared.
"Yes, Mr Maxwells"
He nods dismissing her and turning to me.
"See anything else you like magic?"
I shake my head, no.
"Well we just have to make you like it"
He goes on to buy me some dresses, gowns, jeans, slacks, tops, some high heeled shoes, sneakers and some undies and bikinis.
What! I have no idea how I will sneak this past julliet, I hope she is at Sage's house, am scared her and Justin will think am a gold digger.
I see we are getting some attention and a guy even has a phone out recording justice as he points at stuff while holding my hand.
I suddenly feel a bout of self-consciousness, I pull my hand from his and step away from him.
Am sure I don't look as good standing next to him, I shouldn't ruin his image.
He stops, turns to me and smiles.
"Don't worry itty, am proud to have you on my arm"
He says this while wrapping his hands around my waist.
(Ha, who knew the great justice can be sweet? It's a miracle-bebe)
I smile and i tuck my hand into his back pocket.
When we are done we go to check out and round everything up.
"That will be a two hundred and eighty five grands sir, are you paying in cash or by a transaction?"
My heart palpitates, I tug on his shirt and he turns to me, I whisper.
"Let's return these stuff, it's too much".
He turns to me fully and grabs my face in his hands.
"You are worth this and much more , Bella.
(Swoon, zinny , godiya, Mandy, Brenda, oluwadare, Carmen, Dara and Dorcas, that was for you, you guys are worth a million stars in the sky)
I blush and he turns to pay, I don't make a sound.
Am too stunned.
After that the store manager comes and tells us he will be of assistance in taking this to the car .
Justice just nod, he must be used to this kind of treatment.
After, we go to the phone repair shop and am glad to see that the technician is done.
I give him my phone and he inputs Kele's number.
Wow!
Am so happy I turn to justice and give him big loud kiss on his cheek.
He looks stunned because he is staring at me without blinking.
I turn to the technician and thank him, we pay our fee and we exit his shop.
I can't wait to call kelechi.
As we make our way out we pass a pastry and ice cream kiosk.
"You want some sugar?"
I nod, he hands me his card.
"You want some?" I ask.
"Get double of anything you want, I will have what you are having"
I nod and I turn to the kiosk, he is waiting so I have to be fast.
As I place my order for a vanilla and chocolate chip mash I turn to watch him.
I see a woman approach him and I stand straight, I don't like that.
I immediately notice his posture become wary.
Who is she?
I get my order and I pay, as I walk closer I could hear what they were saying or should I say she was saying.
".........I know, I know you miss me in your bed J, we can go back we can be so good again."
"Selene......"
I see that justice looks about to puke.
Oh.
No.
Hell.
No.
I walk to them casually and I wrap my hands around justice waist and I pull him from her grasp.
"Whose this baby?"
I ask and he blinks at me in surprise but he throws his arms around my shoulder.
"Baby?"
I hear the bitch ask and I smile sweetly at her.
"Am Emilia, whom might you be?"
"Am the mother of his child"
I feel justice arm tighten on my shoulder.
This bitch did not just bloody go there.
I might be green and a village girl but I don't allow people walk all over what I consider mine.
I don't know what made me do it .
Oh .
Wait.
I know, her voice is terribly painful in my ears.
So I stuff my delicious iced vanilla and chocolate chip ice cream in her face.
She should be glad it is something sweet.
My poor ice cream.
She squeals as it plops on her chest, spreading on her dress as it rapidly melts.
I see people watching the show and a few seem to be recording it.
Good.
I tuck my hand in justice pocket and I say innocently.
"Come on baby, lead the way, I still wants some ice cream"
He looks at me, looks at Selene and busts out laughing.
I mean a full belly laugh.
I don't blame him , she looks like a drowned raccoon with her mascara running all over the place.
Ha.
Justice leads me to the parking lot and when we get there he plops a big kiss on me.
Right on my lips.
Ok wow, That was worth it..

PREVIOUS


. THE PINK CLOUDS
______________
#Final_EPISODE

 

 

About a 3 months later, Richard had started his business of poultry and fish farming. Things haven’t been easy for him from the beginning, because he hasn’t sold any of his product yet. He was able to raise five thousand chickens and countless number of fish. Today was a big day, because he was going to sell his fish for the time, and it was also Rebecca’s birthday. He woke up early in the morning around 6 am and took a bath before any of his roommates could wake up. He got dressed in a blue Shirt and a black trouser and left the room.

He boarded a taxi that will take him to his poultry farm. The poultry was about five kilometers away from his university, and about 3 kilometers away from where Rebecca is staying. Her Aunt sent one of elderly cousins to live with her and Richard decided to move back to the hostel. Rebecca tried her best to him convince to stay, but Richard thought she needed her family. Since then, Rebecca has been very mad at Richard. She hasn’t been picking his calls for the past week, but he decided he will visit her after his sell.

He arrived at the poultry after few minutes of driving, and he was welcomed by one of the men he employed.
“Good morning sir,” the man greeted as Richard approached the entrance.

“Good morning, how was your night?” Richard asked.

“It was not bad,” the man replied.

“How is your family?” Richard asked.

“They are all okay,” the man grinned.

“That’s good then,” Richard smiled.

“I


have good news for you sir,” the man announced.
“Really? What is it?” Richard asked curiously.

“Your Chickens have started laying eggs,” the man announced.

“Really?” Richard asked excitedly.

“Yes, you can go in and see them,” the man said.

Richard walked around excited and looked at his farm. He couldn’t believe he made it that far. He looked a around the farm with a smile on his, and he has never been proud of himself like he was at that moment. He was so desperate to finish was he was doing so that he could tell Rebecca about his achievement.
At about 10 am, the buyers of his arrived farm. Because of the uniqueness of his fish, he was able to make about one million Naira from his first sell.

After paying his workers, he decided go to a nearby jewelry shop nearby to buy something for Rebecca because it was her birthday. While he was going around the jewelry store shop, he noticed a very beautiful ring and a necklace and decided to buy the two for her. He took a taxi back the hostel where he found only Achuba in the room.

“Hey, when did you go out?” Achuba asked.

“I left as early as 6, you were all sleeping at that time,” Richard replied.

“So how did it go?” Achuba questioned.

“It was a huge success, And my chickens have finally starting laying eggs” Richard announced excitedly.

“You see, I told you to be patient, I was absolutely sure you would make it,” Achuba grinned.

“Thank you,” Richard smiled.

Just then, Richard received a call from Emmanuel.

Richard: Hello

Emmanuel: Good morning

Richard: Good morning, I thought you are supposed to be at school by this time.

Emmanuel: we are on holidays

Richard: are you sure you are holidays?

Emmanuel: I’m absolutely sure, you can ask Rebecca if you don’t believe me.

Richard: okay, I believe you.

Emmanuel: I just want to tell you that to is Rebecca’s birthday.

Richard: I’m already aware, I even got her a present.

Emmanuel: that’s cool, when are you coming?

Richard: soon

After the call, Richard call Rebecca again several times, but she didn’t pick his calls. He decided to send her a message about his success, but still got no reply. At some, he headed out of the room.

“Where are you going?” Achuba asked.

“I’m going to meet Rebecca,” he replied as he walked. He walked for some minutes before arriving at Rebecca’s faculty. He walked to bulletin and looked for where Rebecca was having her lecture. After noticing where her lecture will take place, he asked one of the students around for where he can find the venue. He was instructed to go to the fifth floor and he made his way there.

When


he got there, he noticed that the venue was a laboratory filled with students wearing white coats. Suddenly, he saw Rebecca standing next to her friends. When her friends noticed him standing outside, they showed him to her but she quickly looked away acting like she didn’t care. Richard walked to the entrance of the lab and called her name.
Rebecca turned and glared at him angrily.

“What do you want?” She inquired.

“Can I have a word with you?” Richard asked.

“What do you want with me?” She asked after getting to his position.

“Did you see the message I sent you?” Richard asked.

“Yes I did,” Rebecca replied.

“Then why didn’t you say something?” Richard asked.

“I thought you don’t want me anymore,” she replied.

“How could you say something like that?” Richard asked.

“You shouldn’t have left,” she said and turned to go back.

“Rebecca!” Richard called out and when she turned, she saw him kneeling before her.

“What are you doing?” She asked perplexingly.

“Will you marry me?” He proposed as he took out the ring he bought. Rebecca watched him with amazement, and everyone’s attention was on them. And some people even started taking pictures of them. Rebecca ran to him and held his hand.

“Yes, I will marry you,” she smiled.

“I will meet you after you are done with your lecture,” Richard said after he had gotten up.

“Okay,”Rebecca replied.

After the proposal, Richard walked out of Rebecca’s building. He suddenly received a call from Susan telling him that she had arrived. He asked her to move there with niece and nephew so that he could take of them. He boarded a taxi to the bus station and found Susan holding a baby in a blanket while sitting on a bench, and his niece was sitting beside her.

“Hey Richard,” Susan said when Richard got to them.

“How was your journey?” Richard asked.

“It was exhausting,” she smiled.

“And who are these young ladies?” He said looking at his nieces.

“Good afternoon uncle Richard,” the older one greeted him. She was 12 years old, and she was as tall as Emmanuel.
“Good afternoon Kate, I’m surprised you still remember me,” Richard said as he held her hand.

“Of course I remember you, I was 6 years old when you left,” she replied.

“You are still the smart little girl I used to know,” Richard complimented.

“Thanks you,” she giggled.

“How is the baby doing?” Richard asked looking at his nephew who was a few months old.

“He’s fine, tho he cried a bit during our journey,” Susan replied.

“So, what did you name him?” Richard asked.

“He’s called Peter,” his niece quickly said.

“What a lovely name,” Richard praised.
He took them to a small house he rented for them that was close to where Rebecca stays.

“Wow! This place looks amazing,” Susan commented after they had entered the house. It was a two bedroom flat with a living room and small kitchen.

“Yes it is,” Richard smiled.

“You know big sis would have been very proud of you if she was alive,” Susan mentioned.

“Yes I know,” Richard replied.

“Where is Rebecca?” She asked.

“She is in the school,” Richard replied.

“By the way, we will be getting married next week,” Richard announced.

“Oh my God, really?” Susan asked amazingly.

“Yes,” Richard replied.

“I’m really happy for you,” she praised.

“Thank you,” Richard replied.


After her lecture, Rebecca quickly headed out. Her mates were calling her but she was carried away by excitement. By the time she got out of her faculty, her phone started ringing. She picked the call as she entered her car.

Rebecca: You are not going what just happened.

Amirah: You want to kill me with one of those boring stories of yours .

Rebecca: i am getting married

Amirah: are you serious?

Rebecca: yes I am, Richard has just proposed to me 2 hours ago.

Amirah: oh I’m really happy for you.

Rebecca: Thank you.

Amirah: but when is the wedding going to take place?

Rebecca: I’m not sure, but it should be next week.

Amirah: wow! That’s so soon.

Rebecca: I know, but I have been waiting for this moment for quite a long time.

Amirah: I wish you all the Best sis

Rebecca: Thank you.

Amirah: I will call Alice and inform her.

Rebecca: it will help if you do that.

Rebecca started the engine of her car and drove home. When she arrived home, she met her cousin and Emmanuel watching TV in the living room.
“Are you back?” Her cousin asked.

“Yes I am,” Rebecca replied as she sit on the sofa opposite to her and next Emmanuel.

“Let me go and get you something to eat,” her cousin said as she stood up.

“Wait, I have something to tell you,” Rebecca announced.

“I am getting married,” Rebecca announced.

“Really? Did you tell your aunt about it?” She asked.

“No


I haven’t,” Rebecca replied.
“You should at least tell her,” her cousin suggested.

“I know she will try to stop me, that’s why I won’t bother telling her,” Rebecca replied.

“You know we are also your family, she is just worried about you,” her cousin said.

“But I do love Richard with all my heart, besides, I have never seen my mom trusting anyone like she trusted him,” Rebecca explained.

“I don’t think there is anything wrong with Richard,” Emmanuel interfered.

“Really? He must be a really nice man since he was able to win over all of you,” she smiled.

Some minutes later, Richard knocked at the door of the living room and came in.

“Richard” Emmanuel called out.

“Emmanuel!” Richard retorted.

“Good afternoon,” Emmanuel greeted.

“Good afternoon how are you?”

“I’m fine, I heard that you will marry Rebecca.”

“As a matter of fact, I will,” Richard smiled, and by that time, he had reached one of the sofas and sat down.

“I can’t believe Rebecca will be getting married,” Peter laughed.

“Get out here,” Rebecca shouted and Emmanuel laughed and ran out.

“Let me go and get you something to eat then,” Rebecca’s cousin and left the living room.

“Did Susan arrive safely with the kids?” Rebecca asked.

“Yes they are all healthy,” Richard replied.

“That’s nice, I was asked when is going to take place, and I replied by saying next week,” Rebecca informed.
“Oh really? Then we need to start preparing from today,” Richard replied.

“You are absolutely right,” Rebecca laughed.
“I can’t wait to see you wearing your wedding gown,” Richard said.

.”No worry, you will see me soon,” she laughed.

The next day around 10 am, Alice and Amirah arrived. They were going to help Rebecca with her weeding shopping. Rebecca brought them home with her car. They found Richard and Emmanuel in the living room playing video games when they arrived.

“Hey Richard!” Amirah said as they walked.

“You are welcome,” Richard replied as he stood up.

“Thank you,” she replied.

“I can’t believe you guys have made it this far, it was just like yesterday when you first met,” Alice commented.
“I can’t believe it, time is flying faster nowadays,” Richard replied.

“Let’s keep our luggage first,” Alice said.

“Okay,” Richard smiled.

They left for the shopping around 10:30 am. They spent almost the whole entire day shopping. They returned almost 10 pm and they were all exhausted. They came along with a van which contained everything they both. By that time, Emmanuel and Rebecca’s cousin have already slept. Richard was the only person awake. The van driver and his assistant unloaded everything from the van into the living room. They left as soon as they finished unloading.

“You guys must be really exhausted,” Richard commented.

“Yes Richard, we are indeed very tired,” Alice Rebecca.

“I’m forever grateful for your kindness,” Richard grinned.

“Oh please, don’t mention it,” she grinned.

Alice and Amirah left to the bedroom, while Rebecca remained behind. She went and sat next to Richard and placed her head on his shoulder.

“I still can’t believe we are getting married,” she said.
“Me too, I still feel like this isn’t reality,” Richard replied as he touched her hair.

“Well,


we have journeyed a long way before coming here,” she said.
“Yes, we have,” Richard replied.

“You are tired, you need to go and sleep,” Richard suggested.

“You are right,” she replied and stood up.

“Goodnight dear,” she said as she walked to her room.

“Goodnight,” Richard smiled.


. .
It was Wednesday noon, the day Rebecca and Richard set aside for their wedding. The weeding was to take place in the university central chapel because there was a public holiday. Rebecca was feeling so excited,yet scared. She got dressed in her white weeding gown and walked out of the room. Suddenly, tears started falling from her eyes.

“Oh please don’t cry, you are going to ruin your makeup,” Amirah said as she clean the tears with her handkerchief.
“I wish my mom was her to see how beautiful I look in my weeding dress,” Rebecca said.

“We wish so too,” Alice commented.

“Is almost time, let head to the chapel,” Alice commented.
When they got out of the out of the house, Rebecca saw one of her Achuba standing next her car. The car was decorated with many balloons.

“Congratulations!” Achuba said when they got to the car.

“Thanks,” she smiled and the three of them entered the car. Achuba entered the car and started driving slowly. When the car entered the university, Rebecca was surprised at how the students were cheering and waving at her. She felt so special at that time.

They arrived at the chapel by exactly 12 pm and again Rebecca was surprised by how crowded the place was. She never such huge number of people. After the car came to a stop at the parking lot, Rebecca and her bridesmaids got down from the car. Alice helped her in holding the end of her gown as she walked towards the chapel. She suddenly saw one of her Professor, who was also her mother’s Friend standing by the door of the chapel.

“Good afternoon sir,” Rebecca greeted.

“Good afternoon, let me walk you down the aisle,” he offered.

“Thank you sir,” Rebecca smiled.

When they walked into the chapel, her heart started to beat faster. The place was filled with people like never seen before. Rebecca looked at the ground as they walked preventing herself from making eye contact. When she looked up, she saw Richard standing in a black coat suit. The instance their eyes met, all her fears disappeared. She had never seen wearing an outfit that perfect suits him like that one. After walking a few steps, they finally made it to the front of the chapel. Rebecca stood next to Richard while the Professor went back to the audience.
“You look handsome in official suits, you should wear it every day from now on,” Rebecca whispered to Richard.

“You look the most beautiful in this weeding gown, you will wear it occasionally even after we have gotten married,” Richard whispered back. After the prayers were being said, the priest asked the audience to sit down. And soon, Rebecca and Richard said their weeding vows and were announced as husband and wife. Richard proceeded to kiss her, and the crowd of the students cheered and clap for them.

 

The end…

Episode 29 continuation

Rebecca didn’t know when the phone fell of her hand. She suddenly screamed at the top of her that the whole compound echoed her voice. Richard and everyone rushed to living room to see what was wrong. When they got there, they found Rebecca on the floor crying out loud like never before. Richard bent down and held her hand as she was crying.

“What’s wrong Rebecca?” Richard asked.

“My mum is death,” she said crying. Richard couldn’t believe what he just heard. He could process the information that got into his head, and everyone around became devastated.
Emmanuel ran out of the living to his room and locked himself. Unconsciously, tears started falling from Richard’s eyes. He couldn’t utter a word to Rebecca, he just sat there and watched her in disbelieve. Susan instantly came in and saw Richard and Rebecca crying. She became very confused to why they we’re crying like that.

“What happened?” She asked Achuba who was standing behind them.

“Rebecca’s mother died,” Achuba explained.

“Oh my God, that’s terrible,” Susan said.

“Yes it is,” Achuba replied.

Susan went to Rebecca and held her hand trying to calm her while Achuba went to Richard. Soon, people from all over came in trying to calm them. Rebecca felt like all of it was it. She couldn’t believe that she won’t be hear her mother’s voice ever again. She couldn’t believe that believe that she won’t hear or see her laughing ever again. The more she thought of things like that, she Wilder it drove her.


It was midnight, and Rebecca could not stop crying. Even though she saw her mother’s death coming, she couldn’t believe it actually happened. She wished she could wake up for that nightmare. At some point, she got up to go to the bathroom. As she was passing by Emmanuel’s room, she heard him crying in his room. She opened the door and walked into the room. He was sitting by the edge of the bed crying when she walked into. When he looked up and saw her, he ran to her and hugged her. She couldn’t feel his tears wetting her clothes.

“I’m so sorry,” Rebecca cried.

“What are we going to do now?” He asked.

“I don’t really know Emmanuel, but I’m sure God is with us,” Rebecca said.

“If God is with us, why did he take our mother away from us?” He asked.
“Because his place is better than here,” Rebecca replied.
“I wish this was not real,” he said.
“Me too,” Rebecca replied.
He cried on her shoulder for minutes before she told him that she needed to go to the bathroom. After she done she headed out and sat on the park bench opposite Richard’s room. She suddenly burst into tears when she saw Richard approaching her. He came and sat beside her and held her hand.
“I just can’t believe that my mom is really gone,” she cried.
“Me too, I’m still shocked as you,” Richard replied.
“I was a fool for not going with her, I could have been there during her last moments,” she cried.
“You shouldn’t blame yourself, she wouldn’t have allowed it even if you wanted to go with her,” Richard replied.
“She couldn’t have allowed me if I insisted.”
“I think the best for us to do now is to pray for her,” Richard said.

They


remained sitting till Dawn. Soon, Rebecca’s aunt arrived the house. When Rebecca saw her, she quickly ran to her and hugged her. They both cried out as they hugged each other.
“I can’t believe Grace is really gone,” her aunt cried. Emmanuel came out of his room and went to them. Richard stood behind and watched them in sadness. He felt sorry for them because they became orphans like. And I that moment, he vowed to himself to never let go of Rebecca no matter what happens.
In the morning, students and lecturers from the university started coming to say their condolences to Rebecca. Richard gave them some space and stayed in his room. It had been a busy day because people did not stop coming even after 4 pm. Just around 5 please, Alice and Amirah arrived. They stayed with Rebecca in the room for the rest of the day.

About a week later, susan travelled back to her place and Rebecca was expected to move out of the house since it’s a government property. They were to move to a house Rebecca bought that was just about a kilometer away. They woke up early in the morning and started making the preparing to leave. They gathered all their stuff in big bags and boxes. At about 10 pm, they were done packing everything.

“Are you hungry?” Rebecca asked Richard.

“I think so,” Richard smiled.

“Okay, I will eat when we get there,” she responded.

Everything was loaded into a big truck and soon they took off. The truck was behind Rebecca’s car which was leading the way. Emmanuel was sitting on the back sit with their aunt, while Richard was beside Rebecca. In just five minutes, they arrived at their destination. It was 3 bedroom apartment with medium sized living room. It has a short fence around it and was painted yellow. There was a small canopy at the front of the house that was meant for parking a car. Rebecca parked the car and they all got down from the car.

Their luggage was unloaded from the truck and taken into the house. After everything was taken off the truck, Rebecca paid the truck driver and he drove away with his fellows. Soon, they started arranging everything in the house. It took them about 4 hours to finish arranging everything. They were so tired and hungry by the time they were done.
“Could you please go and get us something to eat?” Rebecca asked Richard with a sick face.

“Is
okay, what would you like to eat?” Richard asked.
“You can get me anything,” she replied.

“How about you Emmanuel?”

“I’m okay with rice and stew,” replied Emmanuel.

“Okay, I will be back,” Richard replied and walked out.

After Richard went out, Rebecca’s Aunt asked Richard to go out because she needed to have a word with her.

“You said you needed to talk to me,” Rebecca said.

“Yes, I have been here for almost a week, and I noticed that this young man has been so close to you,” her aunt replied.

“Yes he has been.”

“Can I ask what’s your relationship with him?” She requested.

“He is my boyfriend,” Rebecca answered.

“Boyfriend? Is he working?” She asked.

“No, he is first year student in this University.”

“What? How could you be with someone like that? I’m pretty sure he’s after your money.”

“No, Richard is not like that,” Rebecca responded.

“I don’t think I can tolerate this, you must break up with him,” she declared.

“I don’t think I can break up with him, even my mom has approved our relationship,” Rebecca replied.

“Are you being disrespectful to me because I’m not your mother?” She asked.

“No I’m not being disrespectful,” Rebecca replied.

“In case you have forgotten, your mother is my younger sister and she does everything we ask to do. Since your beginning to show this behavior, I will ask your uncle to look into this,” she expressed.

Rebecca was silent at that moment. Her heart was boiling in rage wondering what she’s going to say.

“I’m old enough to take care of myself and my brother, why can you just let us live our lives the way we please?” Rebecca asked.
“This is truely unbelievable, I can see that you have been brought up with no manners at all. My first child is 20 years older than you, but he’s never said something of that nature to me,” she said.

“I’m really sorry, I will do anything you wish, but breaking up with Richard is something I will never do,” she answered.
“Well, then I will have to inform your uncle,” she said.

30 minutes later, Richard returned with the food he bought from the restaurant nearby. He bought Rebecca and her Aunt some pounded yam, while he bought himself and Emmanuel rice and stew. When arrived, he noticed Emmanuel sitting on rock outside the house.

“Hey, what are you doing there?” Richard asked.

“So you are back,” Emmanuel replied as he stood up.

“Yes I am,” Richard replied trying to go into the house.
“Wait,” Emmanuel called out. Richard stopped walking and looked in his direction.
“There is something I need to tell you before you go in,” he announced.
“What is it?” Richard asked.
“I heard my aunt and Rebecca talking about you,” he announced.
“Really? What were the saying?” Richard asked.
“My aunt said you can’t live with us anymore,” Emmanuel replied.

“Well, I wasn’t planning on living here either,” Richard responded.

“She asked Rebecca to break up with you,” he added.

“Why did she want me to break up with Rebecca?”

“She said is because you are poor and have no better future,” Emmanuel explained.

“What? And what did Rebecca say?” He asked.

“She said she won’t break-up with you and my aunt said she going to get our uncle,” he explained.

Richard became shocked when he heard that. He moved closer to him and asked him to tell him more about relatives.

“My mum has 2 siblings and they are both older that her. My grandparents died even before Rebecca was born. My mom hasn’t been in good relationship with my aunty and uncle, for that reason, why don’t visit them often,” Emmanuel explained.

“Why do your relatives live?” Richard asked.

“They live in Calabar, Cross River State,” he explained.
Richard smiled and placed in right hand on Emmanuel’s shoulder.

“What do you think of me?” Richard asked.

“I think you are very kind,” Emmanuel responded.

“I’m glad you think. Let’s go in, aren’t you tired of standing here?” Richard said.

“They asked me to come outside,” Emmanuel replied.

“Why did they do that?”

“I guess my Aunt didn’t want me to hear their conversation which I already heard anyway.”

“You are such a naughty kid,” Richard smiled.

He walked in together and met them sitting on the sofa in the living room.

“You are back,” Rebecca smiled as she stood up to meet Richard.

“Yes, I’m so I’ve kept you waiting,” Richard answered.

“Is okay,” she replied as she received the poly bag from his hand.

“What did you get me?” She asked.

“I got some pounded yam for you and your aunt,” Richard replied.

“Oh thank you so much, as if you’ve read my mind, it’s been a while since we last ate pounded yam,” Rebecca said excited.

After he handed them the food, went to the bedroom that was right next to the living room and took his bag with all his clothes and went out without Rebecca and her Aunt noticing it.

“Are you going already?” Emmanuel asked asked when he noticed Richard living.

“Yes, I’ll be going back to the hostel,” Richard replied.

“Why are you going to leave us?” Emmanuel asked sadly.

“Our exams are starting next week, I want to go to the dorm and prepare,” Richard explained.

“Does Rebecca know that you are living?”

“Yes she does,” Richard smiled.

Richard started walking, and Emmanuel went after him. He held the other side of the bag as Richard walked.
“You could have at least asked Rebecca for a lift,” Emmanuel said.
“She is very exhausted, I don’t want to bother her,” Richard smiled.
“Are you leaving because of our aunt?”
“No, I’m not leaving because of her, I told you why I’m leaving,” Richard explained.
“And don’t worry, I’ll be coming here from time to time,” Richard continued.
“Okay, I wish you would always be here,” Emmanuel said.
“I will always be here,” Richard replied.
He boarded a taxi to the dorm, and Emmanuel went back home. When Emmanuel got in the living room, he found Rebecca eating the food Richard bought with their aunt.
“Are you aware that Richard has left?” Emmanuel announced.
“Left? Where did he go to?” Rebecca asked.
“He said he’ll be going back to the dorm, I saw him leaving with his stuff,” Emmanuel explained.
When Rebecca heard that, she quickly stood up and ran out.
“Don’t waste your energy, he has taken a taxi already,” Emmanuel said after he had gone after her outside.

“How could he leave like that without saying anything to me?” Rebecca asked.

“I told him about your conversation with our aunt,” Emmanuel revealed.

“What do you mean my conversation?” She asked.

“I heard aunt telling you to break up with him,” Emmanuel revealed.

“What? You must be crazy, how could you be telling him something like that?” Rebecca asked furiously. She went back to the house and tried calling his number, but he was unavailable.



Richard had just arrived at the dormitory. He climbed the stairs dragging his bag along. When he opened the door to their room, all his room members were surprised to see him.

“Richard, why are you here with your stuff? Did something happen between you and Rebecca?” Achuba asked.

“Nothing happened between us, is just that her Aunt is trying to get between us,” Richard explained as he walked.

“Why does she dislike you?” Achuba asked.

“She said is because I’m poor,” Richard replied.

He walked to his closet and put his bag in it and then proceeded to sit on his bed. When he looked up, he made an eye contact with Thomas, and he quickly looked away.
“I thought you said Prof. Grace promised to give you 20 million Naira,” Achuba recalled.

“Yes she did promise to give me 20 million Naira, but she is no longer here,” Richard sadly replied.

“This must be really terrible for you,” Achuba said.

“Indeed it is, I don’t know what to do with my life anymore,” Richard said.

“What do you mean by that?” Achuba questioned.
Richard remained quiet for a while before he finally spoke.
“After thinking about it, I don’t blame her Aunt. I mean look at me, I’m approaching 30 and I haven’t done anything reasonable with myself life. How am I expected to take care of Rebecca, my sister and my nieces? I just feel like I was born unlucky,” Richard complained.

“Calm down bro, I thought you are only 24,” Achuba replied.

“24 is not a small number when it comes to age,” Richard replied.

“Please calm down Richard, if you mad about not getting that money, why don’t you ask Rebecca to loan you some money to start your with it?” Achuba asked.

“I don’t think I can do that, she will think I’m after her money,” Richard responded.

“Stop over thinking Richard,” Achuba adviced.

After a while, Achuba left the room leaving behind only Richard and Thomas. The room remained silent for more than 10 minutes until Thomas broke the silence.

“I’m sorry Richard,” Thomas apologized as he got down from his bed.

“Are you talking to me?” Richard asked as he looked up.

“Yes, who else could I be talking to?” Thomas asked.

“I don’t know,” Richard replied.

“I’m really sorry for dating your sister,” Thomas apologized.

“That’s your problem,” Richard replied.
Thomas stood up and went closer Richard.

“I swear to God, my feelings for your Susan are real. I’ve never met a girl made me feel like that in my entire life. I’ve tried my best not to fall for her, but at end, I fell irresistibly in love with her. Please give us a chance Richard, and I swear I won’t talk any other girl ever again,” Thomas begged. Richard became surprised at his words and somehow became weakened.
“Okay, but don’t ever talk about other girls in my presence,” Richard agree.

“Oh thank you so much,” Thomas replied as forcefully hugged Richard.

“Get off me please,” Richard said.

Just then, Achuba came back holding a poly bag.

“Someone is looking for you outside, the person is at the entrance of the dormitory,” Achuba announced to Richard.

“Who could that person be?” Richard asked.

“You can go there and see for yourself,” Achuba replied. Richard got down from his bed and headed out. When he got of the dormitory, he saw Rebecca leaned against her car with her arms folded. Richard walked slowly towards her coming up with words to tell.

“You must be very disappointed to see me,” Rebecca said when Richard got to where she was.

“How can you say?” Richard asked.

“How could you leave just like without saying a word to me?” Richard asked.

“I’m sorry, I just came back here to prepare for my exams,” Richard replied.

“Go and get your stuff, we are going back,” Rebecca replied.
“I can’t go back, I told you I have things to do,” Richard replied.
“Unless you don’t want your future wife to be rapped, go and get your stuff ready,” Rebecca said.

“Rapped?” Richard retorted.

“Yes, rapped. My aunt has travelled back, only I Emmanuel will be willing be left at home,” she replied.

“Okay, give me a minute,” Richard replied.

He went back to their room and grabbed his back.

“Hey, are living so soon?” Achuba asked.

“Yes I am,” Richard replied.

“You didn’t tell us where your new home is,” Thomas smiled.

“I’m not telling anyone,” Richard responded. He walked out of the room and went to Rebecca. He got into the car and soon she started driving.

“I know you heard about what my aunt said about you,” she said as they drove.

“Yes, but is not your fault,” Richard replied.

“That woman is really crazy, I don’t know she is so interested in my person life,” Rebecca said angrily.

“Do you know what?” Richard asked.

“No I don’t,” Rebecca replied.
“I think she is right in some ways. I mean see how useless I am, how am I supposed to take care of you and your brother?” Richard asked.

“What?” Rebecca asked after she stopped driving. She parked the car out of road and glared at Richard.

“Yes Rebecca, it makes feel so pathetic each time I see how perfect you are. I don’t have anything nor a brighter future.”

“Richard, I love you just the way you are, it wouldn’t matter to me if you are poorer or richer than you are right. You have a very beautiful personality and not everybody can see,” Rebecca smiled.

“Do you think so?” Richard asked.

“I think so,” she replied.
She continued driving the car, and soon, they arrived at their house.

“Your friend told me that you need money to start a business, but you don’t want to ask me because I thought I will think you are after my money,” Rebecca said.

“Yes, but why would Achuba told you that?” Richard asked.
“Well, he did the right thing,” Rebecca smiled.

“I just don’t want to be a burden to you,” Richard replied.

“Never will I think of you as a burden,” she replied.

“How much do you need?” She asked Richard.
“I can’t accept your money Rebecca, this is exactly what your aunt is against,” Richard said.
Richard tried to get out of the car but Rebecca grabbed his hand.

“Okay, think of it as a loan. You will pay me later,” Rebecca smiled.

“What if the business fail?” Richard Asked.

“I have confidence in you, it won’t fail,” she replied.

“Thank you for trusting me,” Richard also smiled.

“Do you know what?” Rebecca asked.

“My aunt said she is coming back with my uncle, they won’t allow me to live alone,” she announced.

“Don’t you like your relatives?” Richard asked.

“No, I hate them,” she replied.

“So, what will you do?” Richard asked.

“You should marry me,” she announced.
Richard became so surprised when she said that.

“Do you mean we should fake the marriage?” Richard asked.

“No, I mean like a serious marriage that normal lovers do. I would like you to remain by side forever,” Rebecca said.
“Marrying you would be the greatest thing that has ever happened to me, but I don’t have anything to offer you,” Richard complained.

“Don’t worry about what you have to offer me,” she replied.

“I want to marry you like a real man, so you should please give me a year,” Richard requested.

 CLICK ON THE THE LINK BELOW TO READ FINAL EPISODE
https://dapalace.com/the-pink-clouds-finale/

____________

Story_Continues

THE
PINK

CLOUDS
#Episode_29

 


When Rebecca heard that, she ran into the room and unexpectedly kissed Richard.

“Why didn’t you tell me that he threatened to kill me?” Rebecca asked.

“Well, I just don’t want you to be worried,” Richard replied.

“I will make sure I find a way to bring him down,” Rebecca vowed.

“And for you, I will never forget this betrayal,” she said looking at Achuba.
“I am really sorry, is not that I despise you or something, I was just talking about my own point of view,” Achuba explained.

“I’m pretty sure that if Richard was like other guys, you could have convinced him.”

“Then you are lucky that he’s not like other boys,” Achuba smiled.

“Stop trying to act cool,” Rebecca said and walked out.

“How comes we didn’t notice her arrival?” Achuba asked.

“I didn’t know that she’s an expert in sneaking until now,” Richard replied.

“Did you talk to Thomas?” Achuba asked.

“No I didn’t,” Richard replied.

“Don’t tell me that is really over between the two of you,” Achuba said.

“Is pretty obvious that it is,” Richard said.

“You know, I’m absolutely certain that the feelings Thomas has for your sister are real. He has been in worry for the past day and I’ve never seen him like that,” Achuba announced.

“Well, that’s not my problem,” Richard replied.

“Can I ask you something?” Achuba said.

“Yes you can,” replied Richard.

“When you first fall in love with Rebecca, you told me that you weren’t supposed to fall in love with her. But despite all the reasons not to fall for her, you were blinded that you couldn’t see the reality. You even chose to give up school because of your love for her,” Achuba announced. Richard remained quiet for a moment.

“You


are absolutely right,” Richard finally spoke.
“Don’t you think is the same thing for Thomas? I noticed they looked at each other the day they first met and Thomas even had her phone number. But I quickly interfered and reminded Thomas of the consequences of his actions, and because of that, he didn’t call her,” Achuba explained.

At that moment, Emmanuel walked into the room.

“Hey Richard, do you know how to play FIFA on PlayStation?” He asked.

“Actually, I’m not that good. It’s been years since I last played a video game,” Richard replied.

“Do you have the game with you?” Achuba asked.

“Oh yes I do, it is in my room,” Emmanuel replied.
“Bring it here, I would to play it,” Achuba replied.
“Okay, give me a moment,” Emmanuel said and went to his room.
Rebecca was in the dinning room with her books doing some her projects when she saw Emmanuel going out with his game.
“Where are you going with that?” She asked.
“I’m going to Richard’s room,” he answered.
“Okay, has his friend left?” Rebecca asked.

“No he hasn’t,” Emmanuel replied and went out. He arrived at Richard room and placed the game on stand that was close to the wall. He went to other guest room where Susan was lying on a bed and took the TV that was placed on the wall.

“Where are you taking it to?” Susan asked.

“I’m taking it to the other room,” he replied and walked out. Susan curious stood up and went after him. By the time she arrived at Richard’s room, Emmanuel was done setting the game up.

“What are you guys doing?” She asked.

“Do you want to join us?” Achuba asked.
“No thank you,” she responded. She sat beside Richard on the bed and watched as Achuba and Emmanuel played.
As they were sitting, she suddenly received a text message from
Thomas reading “I’m waiting for you.” She looked into Richard’s eyes after reading message.
“Is it Thomas?” Richard asked.

“No it isn’t him,” she replied as she stood.

“You know you are a terrible at pretending, don’t you?” Richard asked.

“You don’t have to believe me,” she said and walked out.
She walked out of the house and found Thomas standing under the tree they met the previous time.
“I thought you are not going to come out,” Thomas said when Susan had finally got to where he was.
“Why are you here?” She asked.
“I’m here to see you,” he replied.
“But I’m sorry we can’t be seeing each other from now on,” Susan replied.

“Is


okay, but I’m really curious,” Thomas announced.
“What are you curious about?” She asked.

“Did you ever love me?” He asked.

Susan walked closer to him and looked into his.

“I do love you, but my brother doesn’t approve it,” she said.

“Does that mean you are going to give up on me?” Thomas asked.

“I’m left with no option,” Susan replied.

“In my entire life, I never knew this type of love exist till I met you. I felt something unique since the first time I set my eyes on you,” Thomas said.

“This is a lie that every boy tells a girl that happens to be his victim, you do know I’m older than you right? I have met quite a lot of boys saying similar things,” Susan responded.
“I swear to God, I have never felt something like this Susan. Is like I haven’t been alive until I met you. You we were in relationship, I felt like I have made the greatest achievement of my life and I didn’t even care if I die the next day.”
She became speechless at that and only looked into his eyes.
“What do you want me to do now?” She finally asked.
“Just give me a chance,” he answered.

“How do I know I can trust you?” Susan inquired.

“Look into my eyes and tell me I’m lying,” Thomas said.

“Okay, then you need to talk to my brother first,” she conditioned.

“Okay, that won’t be a problem,” Thomas replied.



Rebecca going through her projects when she saw her mother’s secretary calling her.

Rebecca: Hello

Secretary: Rebecca, how are you you?

Rebecca: I’m fine, and how is my mum doing?

Secretary: well, I just called to inform you.

When Rebecca heard that, her heart started beating faster and her imagination went wild. She wished the secretary won’t tell what she was thinking.

Rebecca: what happened to my mother.

Secretary: she passed some few minutes after her surgery.

Rebecca: please tell me this isn’t true.

Secretary: I’m truly Rebecca, I know this will be very hard for you to accept.

Protected
By Bebe Ernest
Episode 15 & 16

JUSTICE.
When I know enough time has passed for everyone to be in bed, I make my way to Magic's room.
I knock and I get no response, I open the door and enter and she is sitting on the bed watching me.
I climb on the bed and position my self, my back resting on the headboard and my legs crossed.
I look closely at her and I see her holding the phone case and another small broken phone.

"What's that?"
I ask with a nod towards her hand.
"I thought.... I thought you were angry at me?"
She says and I almost smile.
"Anger is a strong word"
"What are you then?"
I decide to ignore her question, I pull the phone casing from her hand and I open the wrap.
The brand new sleek iPhone falls out, she gasps.
I look at her with my eyebrows raised.
"Don't tell me you've never seen a phone"
She blushes.
"I have but not one this beautiful"
She says this while raising the piece of junk with a rubber band around it lookalike of a phone.
I nod.
I lean over her and plug the phone in on the wall socket.

"Is there any one you want to call?"
She nods...
"Your best friend?"
She nods again.
"Why haven't you done so?".
I ask while nodding at the thingy in her hand.
"I think its dead for ever, it won't turn on and I don't have the charger".
I nod.
"No worries then, when that one powers on you can call your friend"
"But I don't have her number in my head"
"Let's up it come up when you switch Sims."
I reach over her and get her new phone, I hear her pull in a breath when our chests brush, I almost smile.
I switch Sims of both phone and I power on the phone, she squeals a little.
After a while I go through the contact list.
"So?! Is the number in there?"
She asks excitedly, I shake my head and she deflates.
"Tomorrow, we will take your other to the mall tomorrow to try and get it to power on, ok? Then we can get your contacts from it."
She nods .
I go on to show her the things her new phone can do and soon she is smiling.
We open a Facebook account, an instant messenger, WhatsApp and even an Instagram account, she followed all the top fashion designers.
She knew them all and can even spell.
Not that I don't think she can spell, just that am surprised she is that good at it.
I have to really find out about a university for her.
I turn to her when she tugs on the hem my shirt, I like that shit.
"Can I ask you a question?"
"Depends, what do I get from answering?"
She frowns confused.
"Go on, ask away"
She takes a deep breath and I brace myself, this will not be a good question.
"Why didn't you ever arrest Selene?, I mean, isn't abortion illegal in our country?"
I nod.
"Her parents are very influential and good people, at that time I was going to but to what end? They will just get her out and am sure they will saddle me with a name, a name my company didn't need at that time.
So I locked up, and besides, her parents are like one of the major share holders in my company, good people, a relationship ruined like that because of their greedy, selfish daughter would have been irreparable and again , major shareholders"
She nods.
"But that doesn't mean I won't pay her back in her own coin itty bitty, she won't see it coming"
She nods and i get that she totally got me.
"She will deserve what ever comes to her"
I nod.
"Of that you are right magic"
She narrows her eyes.
"What?"
"You just said my name, for the first time"
I smirk, well well well.
Someone is observant.
"You like me saying your name baby?"
She blushes.
"Well I don't hate it"
Ha sneaky.
I pull her face to mine.
"Will you not hate it if I kiss right now?"
Her eyes widen and I see something in there.
What?
No way.
Nah.
But.....?
"Have you ever been kissed?"
She blushes and refuses to meet my eyes by playing with her phone
"Eyes on me magic"
She slowly raises her eyes.
"Have you ever been kissed?"
She shakes her head no and I almost weep.
So effing innocent.
I pull her gently to me and she comes willingly.
"Am going to kiss you now, break the kiss when ever you want itty bitty"
Her eye widen, I don't let her say anything because I kiss her.
At first she is motionless, I nibble on her lip and she opens for me.
Good girl.
After a while she seems to get the hang of it because she kisses me back like a pro.
I break the kiss.
Well what do we have here.
She turns glazed eyes to me and stares at my lips.
"Again?"
I ask and she nods.
I kiss her again, this time harder and much more longer, I break the kiss and whisper in her ear.
"You taste so much better than anything or anyone I have or will ever have"
She goes still in my arms and I frown.
"What's wrong?"
"Please leave my room."
The eff?
"You said what Magic?"
"Leave my room"
I stand from the bed and I pace a little.
I turn to her, pissed.
"Is this what you do? You lure guys in by being sweet and when you have them grasps you tighten the noose?"
Hurt flashes in her eyes, but am too far gone to care.
"Was that even true? Was that even your first kiss? Or you made that up to make you look innocent?"
She kneels up in the bed and points to her door.
"Get out!"
"You don't have to say that twice bitty, am going".
I exit and i slam the door as hard as I can.
Whatever.
They are all the same.
I enter my room and I fall on my bed.
I think about what happened, I go over my words and.....
"Oh shit"
I understand now why she is angry,
'better than the one I will ever have?'
Who says that?
So tactless, justice, you slowpoke.
I sigh as I rub my palms on my face.
And the harsh things I said, and after the girl gave me her first kiss nonetheless.
Ha, justice.
I go to stand but stop.
Tomorrow, Tomorrow.

MAGIC
"Hey, magic? Can you hear me?"
I turn to Alec, I must have zoned out again.
"Am sorry Alec, am a little tired"
He nods.
It's the next morning after the theatrics last night.
How could someone be so sweet and venomous at the same time?

And beside what was I thinking?
I heard he was an aspirant for the governorship position earlier this year.
What chance do I have?
What do I have to offer.
Am never going back to him.
I feel my self getting angry as a knead the pancake batter.
"Magic?, I think you are killing the pancake".
I stop when I see I have almost scattered the batter.
After I set the table, I take my seat.
Everyone is present except his majesty himself.
Am beginning to feel good that he is not coming when he makes an appearance.
Ha, my life.
"Good morning family"
He greets cheerily.
"Wow you are happy."

Julliet observes and I become angry, he shouldn't be Happy, he is a monster.
I begin to shred my pancakes into little shreds when Justin holds my hand.
"Are you ok, little one?"
I smile sweetly at Justin and I see justice scowls at the edge of my vision.
Well take that your highness.
I lean to Justin and I feign interest in his shirt.
"Wow, that's a nice shirt Justin, is it new?"
Justin raises an eyebrow and I smile so sweetly my tooth almost ached.
Alec glances between me and Mr Justin.
"Well damn"
"Alec, language"
Julliet says and countinues.
"The atmosphere this morning is severe, so can we all just go ahead and eat this delicious feté in front of us?"
I nod.
All through the meal I found all excuse to talk to Justin, I laughed, I smiled, I awwed, I frowned.
I did everything I could to get back at justice.
He scowled all through the meal and I almost smile.
Good, there is no way he will be happy and I am angry.
After the meal, I clear the dishes and i walk upstairs to bath.
I feel so good right now.
As I open my door I am yanked back and pulled into Justice's room., He pins my back to a wall, my hand over my head.
"What the hell was that show for?"
I blink innocently.
"What ever do you mean?"
"Don't play games with me itty bitty, am not in the mood"
I get angry.
Oh no.
Hell no.
"Let go of me justice"
"I will let go of you when I want to."
"Leave me alone"
He ignores me.
"What the hell was that behavior about just now?"
"You don't get to ask that, you are not my father, then again, you are nothing to me."
"I very well am, woman"
"If I am your woman, you would never act the way you did last night"
I yell at him and he stills.
He says quietly.
"I didn't mean a word of last night.."
"You did justice, don't insult my intelligence, I know you did, you even used you name for me in anger"
"I did no..."
Oh whatever.
"If you are sorry justice, just say you are"
"Fine am sorry, am sorry, I didn't mean a word of what I said, I was an ass"
"You were, a fine one at that"
I say quietly.
He chuckles
"So am I forgiven?"
One more thing.
"Never use your name for me in anger again justice, I like it,"
He nods and kisses my head.
"I won't"
"Good, and you are forgiven."
"That's good, now, I will tell you this, never ever flirt with my brother to get back at me, it was a low blow"
I nod, "Am sorry"
"So you are gonna go get ready so we can hit the mall?
I nod.
But wait.
"You don't think am using you for your money right"
"No baby, I have too much of it, you can't spend it in your life time"
So Arrogant.
I nod, I turn to leave, I turn back.
"I have nothing to wear, well nothing that will be up to your standards"
He goes to his closet and brings out a white polo.
"Put this on over a blue jeans, tie it at the back, it should do".
I nod, I grab the shirt and turn to leave but I turn back.
"Aren't you going to work today"
"No magic, I want spend the day with you"
I nod.
I turn to leave.
But turn back, I open my mouth.
"If you don't leave itty bitty, I will tie you to the bed and have my wicked way with you.
I blush as I flee his room.
CLICK ON THE THE LINK BELOW TO READ EPISODE 17 & 18
https://dapalace.com/protected-episode-17-18/

Episode
9 & 10

The Fault in our Romance Episode 9
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
*************************************
(A few days later)
(At Hillwood Central Hospital)
(Stephen is discharged)

Stephen: Thank you so much for everything, Dr Mike.

Dr Mike: My pleasure. Just make sure you get the drugs I prescribed for you. It'll speed up your recovery.

Stephen: I will

(Later)
(At Sir Griffin's mansion)

Veronia: Real housewives of Mexico is one of the top notch reality shows in Hillwood City. (she relaxes on Sir Griffin) It makes me forget my problems.

Sir Griffin: (chuckles) You have problems?

Veronica: Everyone has problems my love. Some people just cover up. (smiles) But I know that with you, Everything will be alright.

(Just then, The security guard, Bosco, enters the living room)

Bosco: Sir, Your son has arrived.

Sir Griffin: Ohh....

(Sir Griffin and Veronica goes downstairs to meet Stephen)

Sir Griffin: Stephen! (He hugs him) Welcome home. I've missed you very much. I see you're in better health now....

Stephen: (uninterested) Yes I am. I was waiting for the driver to come pick me up at the hospital but he didn't show up. It was Alex, who dropped me off.

Sir Griffin: I'm really sorry, son.... Veronica and I sent the driver on an errand with the car and I was too busy to drive to the hospital with the other car

Stephen: Busy? Of course. (To Bosco) Get my things into the house.

Bosco: Yes Sir.

(Stephen angrily enters the house)

Veronica: He's acting this way because of me, Isn't it?

Sir Griffin: Just give him some time, He'll warm up to you.

(Underwater - The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)
(Princess Marianna, Suzanne and Prince Erik are in the throne room. Two mermaid servants feed them berries while Silvania combs Marianna's hair)

Princess Marianna: (closes her eyes in ecstasy) Hmm, This is enjoyment. This is how my life should be, Stress free. (sighs happily) It's so good to be a princess.

Maid 1: (to the other mermaid servant) Wow, Leah... Do you see how shiny Silvania's tail is?

(They all stare at Silvania's shiny golden-orange tail)

Maid 2: Yeah, It's glowing.

Suzanne: (stares at Silvania's tail) I have to admit, It is shiny. Shinier that yours, Marianna.

(Princess Marianna gets infuriated by this statement and stares at Silvania with immense hatred and jealousy)

Silvania: (smiles) Thanks. I just drink a lot of water and eat my vegetables.

Maid 1: It's really paying off.

Prince Erik: You're really special, Silvania.

Silvania: (smiles) Thank you....

Princess Marianna: (infuriated) ENOUGH!

(Everyone is suprised by her sudden outburst)

Princess Marianna: (calmly) Enough of these talks, It's disturbing my peace and quiet. Silvania, You're dismissed for today. You may go home now.

Silvania: (surprised by this) Ohh.... Okay my princess (bows)

Princess Marianna: (visibly angry) Just leave!

(Silvania drops the comb and leaves)

Prince Erik: Why'd you dismiss her early?

Princess Marianna: I have the right to dismiss her anytime I choose, Erik. And if you're in need of a handmaid, You can tell Dad to get you one!

(Later)
(Simon goes to meet Silvania outside the castle)

Simon: Are you done for today?

Silvania: Yeah, Princess Marianna discharged me early. So, Did you get it?

Simon: Yup. (He gives her an address) That's where Anika resides.

Silvania: (she glances through it) In a cave?

Simon: Yeah. Apparently, When the King learnt she was practicing juju, He banished her to the furthest part of the kingdom.

Silvania: Ok then. I'll go and meet her. If Mom or Dad asks, Just tell them I'm at the castle.

Simon: Okay. But I hope you know she's gonna ask for something in return.

Silvania: I do. Thank you once again, Simon. I truly appreciate this.

Simon: You're welcome sis. You need to go now.

Silvania: Right.

(Hillwood City)
(At Sir Griffin's mansion)
(Bethany enters the house and sees the driver, Richard)

Richard: Good evening miss Bethany.

Bethany: Evening. Umm, Is Stephen in?

Richard: Yes miss.

Bethany: Ok thanks.

(Bethany goes to Stephen's room)

Bethany: Hi Stephen!

Stephen: Bethany, You didn't tell me you were coming?

Bethany: (giggles) I just wanted to suprise you. Alex told me he dropped you off earlier today, How're you doing now?

Stephen: I'm much better.

Bethany: (she sits on his bed) I came over because I wanted to let you know my Mom and I have picked a church for our wedding, St. John's church. What'd you think?

Stephen: It sounds good. But don't you think it's a little too early?

Bethany: It's better to be early than late. The earlier the better. (she cuddles him) And besides, I can't wait for us to get married and be united as one. I love you so much, Stephen.

Stephen: I love you more.... (He turns to face her and and pulls her into a deep kiss)

(Meanwhile)
(In the ocean - The Mer Kingdom)
(Silvania follows the address and arrives at the cave)

Silvania: (swimming into the cave) Hello? Hello? Anyone here?

(Just then, Anika appears behind her)

Anika: Yes.

Silvania: (she turns around in fright) Ah! (sighs in relief) You startled me.

Anika: (smiles) I do that a lot.

Silvania: You must be Anika.

Anika: I sure am. (excitedly) So what brings a stunningly beautiful mermaid like yourself to my cave... Aren't you satisfied with your beauty? You want to become more beautiful? Tell me what you want and I'll grant you your wish!

Silvania: It's not that. Actually, I came for something much more different. (She breathes in deeply before finally speaking) I want you to make me human.

Anika: (gasps) Woah.... No merfolk has ever asked me to do that before.

Silvania: Then I'll be the first.

Anika: Are you sure this is what you really want?

Silvania: It is.

Anika: Alright then. I hope you'd be willing to pay some coins.

Silvania: Actually...

(Silvania takes out the shiny pearl necklace that Prince Erik gave her)

Silvania: I have this... (She hands it to Anika)

Anika: (she stares at it) Woah, This will be worth a lot of coins.... Anyways, Your wish has been granted. Close your eyes.

Silvania: (confused) Hmm... Okay

(Silvania closes her eyes for a few seconds)

Anika: You can open them.

Silvania: (she opens her eyes) So, What happened? I'm still a mermaid.

Anika: Look... (Anika hands Silvania an amulet) If you want to turn into a human. You must first of all, Leave the Mer Kingdom to the surface of the ocean and then wear that amulet around your neck and you'll transform into a human being. And when you do transform, You will have a different face.

Silvania: (confused) Why can't I still retain my face as a human?

Anika: You cannot look the same as a human and as a mermaid, That amulet is magically supposed to change physically everything about you.

Silvania: Ohh...

Anika: Look, you must make sure you aren't caught. Any mistake could cost you your life so you must do exactly as I have just told you.

Silvania: (stares at the amulet) I will.

The Fault in our Romance Episode 10
(He's a human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
**************************************
(Next Morning)
(Hillwood City)
(At Sir Griffin's mansion)

Stephen: (snidely) Good morning Dad.

Sir Griffin: Stephen...

Stephen: Sir?

Sir Griffin: Look, You need to drop this act. Okay? It's really immature. Besides from the look of things, Your Mom and I were not working out that's why we split up. Veronica didn't poison my mind against your mother if that's what you're thinking. Look, We need to put aside our differences so we can work together and be business wise for the companies to be productive. Please.

Stephen: (sighs) Fine.

Sir Griffin: So, We're planning to make Bethany to be the model for our new hair products - Silk Hair.

Stephen: I'll discuss with her. To let her know her take on this.

Sir Griffin: Sure. And Stephen....

Stephen: (he stares at his father)

Sir Griffin: I may not be the most perfect human in the world but I'll do everything I can to be a better father.

(Stephen nods his head)

(In the ocean)
(The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)

Guard 1: Silvania, This is the first time I'm actually looking at you very well... You're stunningly beautiful.

Guard 2: Yeah, And your scales are so shiny. Much more than the princess' scales.

Silvania: (giggles) Oh please, I know what you're doing. You're flattering me.

Guard 1: It's the truth.

Silvania: Hmm, Really.

Guard 1: Yes

Silvania: (laughs) You shouldn't compare me to Princess Marianna, She's a princess and I'm just her handmaid.

Guard 1: No one would know you're a handmaid if they saw you outside....

Silvania: (giggles)

(Princess Marianna and Suzanne stare at Silvania from afar)

Suzanne: Marianna, Why is your servant girl acting like
that? She's acting like the princess of our kingdom.

Princess Marianna: Watch me put her in her place. (shouts) Silvania!

Silvania: I'm coming Princess Marianna! (To the guards) I'll be right back...

(Silvania goes to meet Princess Marianna)

Princess Marianna: What did you call me? Marianna?

Silvania: No my princess. I called you "Princess Marianna"

Suzanne: You're a liar. I clearly heard you say "Marianna"

Silvania: I didn't say that. I swear.

Princess Marianna: Just be quiet! Do you think that because you're now part of my court that you can act anyhow you choose? Keep this in your tiny little brain... You are just a worthless scummy maid and you'll ALWAYS be a worthless scummy maid! (She throws a bottle of polish to Silvania) I'm sure you know exactly what to do.

Silvania: (she catches the bottle) Yes my princess....

(Later)
(In Princess Marianna's room)

Princess Marianna: I want us to talk.

Silvania: Okay. About what?

Princess Marianna: Which merman in the kingdom do you admire?

Silvania: (thinks) Hmm, None of them.

Princess Marianna: Really? Why not?

Silvania: I just don't have the time to be in a relationship with anyone.

Princess Marianna: And what about my brother?

Silvania: Prince Erik and I are just good friends.

Princess Marianna: That's odd. You're not in love with any merman, Maybe you're in love with a human then?

(Silvania realizes that Marianna is trying to put her over the edge)

Silvania: That's ridiculous. (scoffs) How can I fall for a human? (smiles) I'll fall for the right one at the right time my princess

Princess Marianna: (glares at her) I'm hungry. Go and get me something from the stocks.

Silvania: (bows) Yes my princess.

(Silvania goes to the stocks)

Silvania: Hey.

Mermaid 1: Hi Silvania.

Silvania: The princess asked me to get her something to eat.

Mermaid 1: (points) There are lobsters over there. In the clam bowl.

(Silvania goes to takes the lobsters. On her way back to the princess's chambers, She bumps into Prince Erik)

Silvania: Oops. I'm so so sorry my prince, Forgive my clumsiness....

Prince Erik: No, no. It's fine. (looks at her neck) Where's the pearl necklace I gave you?

Silvania: Ohh (she touches her neck) I forgot it at home. I'm sorry...

Prince Erik: It's alright.

(Silvania attempts to leave but Prince Erik draws her back)

Prince Erik: There's something i want to tell you. You see, I really really like you, Silvania and I....

Silvania: I'm sorry my prince but I don't see you that way. My heart already belongs to someone else. I don't want to lead you on, I only see you as a good friend that's all.

Prince Erik: Ohhh...

Silvania: I hope you understand.

(Silvania swims back to the princess' chambers, leaving Prince Erik dejected)

(Later that day)
(At Donald's house)

Beatrice: Welcome home honey.

Silvania: Thanks. Where's Dad?

Simon: He's gone to sleep.

Beatrice: I'm going to sleep as well. Your food's on the table.

Silvania: Alright Mom. Thanks.

(Silvania watches as her Mom goes into her room. A tear drops down her cheek)

Simon: Are you crying?

Silvania: (she cleans the tear) No. My eyes are just watery.

Simon: So, Were you able to meet with Anika?

Silvania: Yes. And she gave me an amulet to wear once I venture out of our kingdom. I plan to leave early tomorrow before anyone notices.

Simon: Are you sure this is what you really want?

Silvania: Yes. My mind is made up. The heart wants what the heart wants, Even what is worst for it.

Simon: Good luck.

(He hugs her passionately)

Simon: I'm really going to miss you, Sis.

Silvania: Me too...

(Back at the castle)
(Princess Marianna goes to Prince Erik's room)

Princess Marianna: Erik, It's time for dinner.

Prince Erik: I'm not hungry.

Princess Marianna: Since when are you not hungry? You have a massive appetite.

Prince Erik: I just don't feel like eating anything tonight.

Princess Marianna: (she folds her arms) And it has nothing to do with the fact that Silvania rejected you? (Prince Erik stares at her uncertainty) Sorry. I couldn't help but overhear your conversation.

Prince Erik: Even though Dad would never have approved of our relationship. I still loved her.

Princess Marianna: Don't worry, I'll make sure she pays dearly for what she's done. (She grins evilly)

Prince Erik: No, Marianna. Just leave her alone. Love can't be forced.

(Early next Morning)
(Silvania goes to her parent's room and sees them asleep)

Silvania: (she touches their tails) Mother, Father. I know you'll be very disappointed when you find out what I did, I know you'll consider me a prodigal daughter.... (sighs) I just hope you'll find a place in your heart to forgive me (she stares at them for a moment before she leaves their room)

(Silvania grabs the amulet and leaves the house then swims to the borders of the Mer Kingdom and she sees it unguarded)

Silvania: Thank goodness no one's here. (she turns around one last time)

(Silvania heaves a sigh before she swims off, leaving the Mer kingdom)
Click on the link below to read episode 11 & 12
https://dapalace.com/the-fault-in-our-romance-episode-11-12/


To be Continued

Happy new year fam

Yes Emmanuel. I hated it to the extend that I hid myself in an old building close to my school. When the closing hour arrives, I will go back home with the other kids,” Richard narrated.

“That’s cool,” Emmanuel grinned.

“Wait until you hear the full story,” Richard laughed.

“So, what happened next?” Emmanuel asked.

“One day while I coming home, I met a little girl with her mother who was a blind woman. The little girl was guiding her mother around.”

“When the little girl saw my school bag, she told her mother that she wished she could have a bag like mine. She told me that she had never been to school, and she continued by asking me alot of things about my school. Even though I was young at that time, I still appreciate the fact that going to school is a blessing. From that day, I never miss school again,” Richard informed.
Emmanuel became quiet and couldn’t say a word.

“What do you want to be in the future?” Richard asked breaking the silence.

“I want to be a pilot,” Emmanuel happily revealed.

“That’s marvelous, I would love to see you flying an aeroplane in the future,” Richard said.
“That will be awesome,” Emmanuel grinned.
“But you know being a pilot won’t be easy because there are plenty of calculations involved in it,” Richard said.
“I know,” Emmanuel replied.
“That’s why you must go to school. Besides, school is an amazing place. I met all of my best friends there,” Richard explained.
“Yes, you are right,” Emmanuel smiled.
Suddenly, Rebecca appeared behind them wearing a pink night gown.

“Alright is 7:30, is time for you to go,” Rebecca announced.

“I know,” Emmanuel replied. He grabbed his school bag and headed out.

“Good bye Richard, I will see you after school,” Emmanuel said as he walked out of the house.
“It looks like you’ll be a good father,” Rebecca said as she said beside Richard.

“Why do say that?” Richard laughed.

“Well, I heard advising Emmanuel,” she replied.

“We’re you eavesdropping?” Richard asked.

“Kind of,” Rebecca laughed.

“You know he hardly listens to anyone the way he listened you,” Rebecca said after she stopped laughing.

“Really?” Richard asked.
“Yes, and I’m the least person he listens to,” Rebecca replied.

“You k you he is growing up, give him a break,” Richard suggested.

“Oh, we’ll see about that,” she replied.

“So, what do you want to have for breakfast?” She asked.

.”Anything will be okay with me,” Richard replied.

“Okay I be back in few minutes,” she replied as she stood up.

“By the way, you dropped one of your earrings in my room,” Richard announced.

“You are right, I looked for it yesterday but couldn’t find it. O thought I lost it,” Rebecca replied.
Rebecca walked out and headed to Richard’s room. When she arrived at the room she found Susan crying with her face on the bed.

“Oh my God! Susan, what’s wrong?” Rebecca worriedly asked. But Susan kept crying without saying a word.

“Please talk to me Susan, what’s wrong?” Rebecca asked again.

“My brother is no longer talking to me,” she replied crying.

“Don’t worry, I will go and talk to him,” Rebecca replied.
Rebecca stood up went to Richard in the living room.

“What did you to Susan?” Rebecca asked.

“What do you mean?” Richard asked.

“I found her crying terribly in your room,” Rebecca announced.

“Really?” Richard asked.

“Yes, I think you go and talk to her,” Rebecca suggested. Richard stood and went back to the room and found her still crying.

“Susan!” Richard called out. She finally looked up with tears all over face.

.”What do you want?” She shouted.

“I’m truly sorry for making you cry,” Richard apologized.

“I was doing that for your own good,” Richard said.

“Don’t you think I’m old enough to know what’s right for me?” She asked.

“I know you are old enough, but dating my friend is something I couldn’t imagine. Besides, you are even older than him,” Richard informed.

“I know I’m older than him,” she responded.

“You know you are my only family left, I will do whatever it takes to protect you,” Richard said.

“Thank you for the concern,” she smiled.

He sat beside her and they talked for minutes before arriving announced to them that breakfast was ready. After the breakfast, Rebecca announced to them she will be going for her lectures. Some few minutes after she left, Richard received a call from a foreign number. He was surprised and wondered who was calling him. But after he heard the voice, he instantly recognize whom it was.

Richard: Good morning ma’am

Prof. Grace: Good morning, but is actually evening here

Richard: I’m sorry I didn’t know

Prof. Grace: is okay, how are you feeling now?

Richard: I’m much better now, thank you.

Prof. Grace: I’m pleased to hear that.

Richard: how about you? How is your treatment going?

Prof. Grace: is going okay, I will be having a major surgery tomorrow.

Richard: Oh I pray it will be a successful one.

Prof. Grace: Thank you. I hope you are watching over Rebecca and Emmanuel?

Richard: is quite the opposite ma’am, I think Rebecca is watching over us.

Prof. Grace: that’s okay, I’m really glad that you are okay.
Richard: thank you so much ma’am.

Immediately after the call, Richard saw Thomas calling his number. He watched as the phone rang until it stopped. He silenced the phone as soon as it stopped ringing. It rang about five times but Richard did not answer it. After a while, he saw Achuba calling.

Richard: hello

Achuba: hey, how are you?

Richard: I’m doing great.

Achuba: sorry I didn’t get the chance to show up, you school stuff can be overwhelming.

Richard: you need not to bother yourself, is totally understandable.

Achuba: thank you. By the way, I heard what Thomas did.

Richard: who told you about it?

Achuba: he did. I will call you back later, there is something I must do now.

Richard: okay.



In the evening, around 5 pm, Achuba arrived. He went to Richard’s room and found him sitting by the edge of the bed going through his phone.

“Hey Richard,” he called out as he walked in.

“Hey Achuba!” Richard looked up.
“I’m sorry for not coming earlier, you know we are in the middle of the semester, things are pretty tough right now,” Achuba apologized.

“Is okay, I totally understand,” Richard smiled.

“So, how are you feeling now?” Achuba asked.

“I’m much better now,” Richard answered.

Achuba proceed and sat beside Richard. He tried to grab Richard’s phone, but Richard quickly put it away.
“Hey, are you cheating on Rebecca?” He asked sarcastically.

“I’m not that greedy you know,” Richard laughed.

“If you are not cheating on her, then why did you hide your phone from me?” Achuba asked.

“Is something embarrassing, I don’t want you to see it,” Richard replied.

“Really? And what could that be?”
“You have to kill me to find out,” Richard laughed.
Just as they were talking, they heard the sound of the gate opening and Rebecca drove in with her car.

“Speaking of embarrassment, we all couldn’t believe what we saw today,” Achuba announced.

“What Happened?” Richard asked.

“The senator came to the university today, he was desperately begging Rebecca to take him back. Everybody was watching, but Rebecca refused to listen to him,” Achuba explained.

“Really?” Richard wanted to hear more.

Before Achuba could utter a word, his phone started ringing. When he removed it out of his pocket, he observed that it was Thomas calling him. Richard made an attempt to stop him from picking the call, but he quickly answered it. They talked for about five minutes before the call finally ended. And at that moment, Rebecca was just some few inches away from the entrance.
“You were telling me about Rebecca,” Richard said wanting Achuba to complete his story. The moment Rebecca heard, she stopped her steps and waited to hear what they would say about her.

“Oh yes, from the way I see it, the senator is madly in love with her. And I thin he can do anything to get her back,” Achuba explained.

“He did come here yesterday, he offered to give me fifty million Naira if I let her go,” Richard confessed.
“Oh my God, did you accept it?” Achuba asked.

“No I didn’t,” Richard replied.

“To be honest, if I were you, I would accept the money. Fifty million Naira is enough to change your life forever,” Achuba said.

“So, are you telling me that you choose fifty million Naira ?” Richard asked.

.”Obviously. I mean, I’m not sure if I will be with Tina forever. We may even get divorced after some years of marriage and that will be the end of our love story. But if I start a business with fifty million Naira, I may lay a fundation that even my grandchildren with benefit from it,” Achuba explained.

“If you still have the ability to think like this, then it means you really aren’t in love with Tina. Because when you love someone unconditionally, they will become your world to the extent that you can’t see yourself without them. Fifty million Naira is such a great amount, but I’ll be miserable without Rebecca in my life and I will continue to live thinking about how my life could have been with her. If I’m the richest man on the planet, I could give up all I have for Rebecca. When you are in love, you will feel a pleasure that nothing in this world can bring you,” Richard stated.
Achuba became silent and watched Richard with smile on his face.
.”You are really in love with this girl,” he finally said.

“Yes I am,” Richard replied.

“What did the senator say after you rejected his offer?”

“He threatened to kill me,” Richard replied.

“What? I think you should take him seriously, because if you see how crazy he acted today, you won’t doubt it,” Achuba said.

“I know, he tried to kill me, remember?”

“And yet you still declined his offer. You know the law don’t work on rich people like him, he can kill you and nothing will happen to him,” Achuba said.

“Let him kill me, but I never let go of Rebecca,” Richard said.

 
For more stories visit www.dapalace.com
________
To_be_Continued

That’s the common lie that boys say when they meet new girls,” she disbelieved.

“Well, you can ask your brother if you think what I said is untrue,” Thomas said.

“But I know at least you have a crush on someone,” she said looking into his eyes.

The way she talked made him weak that he forgot where was.

“Do you have a crush on someone?” She asked again.

“Yes I do,” he replied.

“Who could that be?”

“Well, I prefer to keep it a secret for the time being.”
“Is that so? At least you can tell me more about her if you are not willing to tell me about her identity.”

“If i tell you a little information about her, I’ll be revealing her identity,” Thomas replied.

“Is okay. Tell me why you like her,” Susan insisted.

“I’m in love with her eyes. From the first moment I saw her, I felt so connected to her. I’ve never felt like that in my entire existence,” Thoma said.

They were both quiet for a moment looking into each other’s eyes. Thomas felt like getting up and kiss her, but something stopped. From the look in her eyes, it was obvious that she was completely helpless.
“When are you going to confess your feelings to her?” She asked.
“Anytime soon,” Thomas replied.
“You better hurry up, she might travel,” Susan said.
“Travel? Where would she go to?”
“I don’t I know, maybe back to where she came from,” Susan replied.
“I thought she just arrived here,” Thomas said.
“Well, there are things she needs to take of that’s why she needs to go,” she explained. Before Thomas could make a comment her phone started ringing.


Emmanuel had just returned from school. He walked in with his school bag on the back heading to his room. He suddenly heard Rebecca’s voice in the kitchen and he branched off to see what she was cooking. When he got there he saw standing next to Richard.
“Hey, aren’t you supposed to be at school?” Rebecca asked angrily.

“One


of our teachers passed away, so is a day off for us,” Emmanuel grinned.
“Seriously? Your teacher passed away and all that you cared about is the day off you get?” Rebecca questioned shockingly.

“Is not like we are related, so that shouldn’t bother me,” he said as he headed back to his room.

“Your evilness is really getting out of hand, I wonder what will happen if someone you loves dies,” Rebecca said.
“I still don’t care,” he said walking.

“This boy is so spoilt, I don’t know how to deal with him anymore,” Rebecca said.

“He is at his adolescence stage, you were once like him, remember?” Richard grinned.

“Hey, don’t forget that you are just 2 years older than I am. And as of now, if I tell people that we are age mates, they are more likely to believe me,” she said.

“Yes, you are right,” Richard laughed.

After the food was done, they ate together and took some back to Susan. When they walked into the room, they food Thomas sitting on the other side of the bed.

“Since when have you been here?” Richard asked.

“A couples of minutes ago, and I heard you went to cook,” Thomas replied.

“Oh yes I didn’t,” Richard replied.

“I didn’t know that you know how to cook,” he said.

“Well, I was just there to watch my wife and learn,” he said and Rebecca turned and smiled at him.

“Here come and eat with me,” Susan said after Rebecca gave her the food.

“No, I’m really full. I ate before coming here,” Thomas responded.

“Where is Achuba?” Richard asked.

.”He will be having a lecture by noon, so I left him getting prepared,” Thomas replied

“Oh that’s okay,” Richard commented.

“I think I’ll be leaving now too, because we also have a lectures by noon,” Thomas replied.

“Okay then I will see you later,” Richard replied.



In the night around 8 pm, Susan received a text from Thomas while she was sitting with Richard on a bed in his room.

Thomas: come to gate of the house, I’m waiting for you.

Susan: Okay, I’m on my way.

She texted back his message with a smile on her face and stood up. She was wearing a very transparent night gown at the time.
“Where are you going to?” Richard asked curiously when he noticed her going out.
“I just want to go and see something,” she replied and headed out.
She walked of the gate and saw Thomas standing close to a tree that was opposite the house. He folded his arms and leaned himself against the tree as he watched her approached him. His heartbeat increased as she got closer.
“So, what brings you here at this time?” She asked holding her waist.
“I’ve never been so desperate in my life to see someone in my life until now. I would lose my mind if I didn’t see you,” Thomas replied.
“Really? Are you expecting me to believe these silly lies of yours?” Susan laughed.

“Look into my eyes and tell me I’m lying,” Thomas said with all seriousness.

She became silent for a while and looked into his eyes. She suddenly felt like he was drawing her soul out her body. He felt a very strong force pulling him towards her. He got closer to her with his heart pounding more than ever. He gently tilt his head and kissed her on the lips. She instantly placed her hands on his shoulders as he kissed her. They kissed for more than a minute before he finally let her go.

And


when he looked up behind her, he instantly met an eye contact with Richard. He had never seen Richard looking very upset like since he met him. He quickly let go Susan and watched Richard walked back into the house. He became confused and couldn’t think of what to do.
“What’s wrong?” Susan asked.

“I think Richard has saw us,” Thomas responded.

“What if he sees us?”

“I don’t think he wants us to be together,” Thomas answered.

“Do you think so?” She asked.

“The look on his face definitely said so,” Thomas responded.

“Don’t worry, I will talk to him,” Susan replied.

She went into the house and saw Richard sitting on a bench under a tree. He was sitting in silence with his arms folded. She headed straight to her room pretending hew wasn’t there.
“What do you think you are doing?” Richard asked just as she walked pass where he was sitting.

“What do you mean by that?” She asked pretending not to be aware.

“You know very well what I’m talking about,” Richard responded.
“I still don’t get you,” she smiled.
“Since when did you start dating my friends?” Richard asked angrily.
.”Are mad because I’m dating someone I like?” She questioned.

“Yes I am, and starting today, you will never see him again,” Richard declared.

“I don’t think you have the right to stop me from dating him, I am not a kid Richard, I date whoever I want and wherever I want,” she replied angrily.

Richard became quiet for moment, because he was surprised at her reply.

“Is that so?” He finally spoke.

“Yes,” she responded.

“Well, I guess I don’t have your respect any longer,” Richard replied.

“You don’t have the right to lecture me about respect,” she declared.

“I understand, you can do anything you wish,” Richard replied.

“I will,” she replied and walked to her room.

Richard remained sitting outside until it was 11 pm. Rebecca had just returned from the library and the gate was opened for her. She drove into the house and saw Richard sitting alone on a bench. She parked the car and walked to him.
“Are you still awake?” She asked when she got to where he was.
“Yes I am,” Richard responded.
“What’s wrong?” She asked noticing how worried he was.

“You won’t believe what I saw,” Richard announced.

“What happened?” Rebecca asked as she sat beside him.

“Thomas is going out with my sister,” Richard complained.

“I thought he is your friend.”
“Not anymore,” Richard declared.

“He stabbed you in the back despite how you trusted him,” Rebecca said.

“Exactly,” Richard replied.



Thomas arrived back at their room very late in the night. When he arrived at the room, he found only Armstrong awake. He was sitting on his bed reading one of his book with a flashlight.
“Where have you been?” Armstrong asked as Thomas walked in.
“I have been sitting on the bench outside,” Thomas outside.
“We thought you are going to spend the night here,” Armstrong said.

“No I was just needed to take care of something,” he replied. He changed into his sleeping clothes and lied on his bed. He tried as much he can to fall asleep for about an hour, but he couldn’t sleep. He kept turning from one side of his bed to another.

“Is something wrong?” Armstrong asked.

“Well, is hard to explain,” Thomas replied as he sat up.

“What is it?”

“Richard saw me kissing his sister,” Thomas announced.

“No way! And what did Richard say?” Armstrong asked keeping his book aside.

“Well, he didn’t say much. He just quietly walked back into the house without saying a word,” Thomas explained.
“What did you say did?” Achuba who was lying on the lower bunk below him asked.

“I thought you are sleeping,” Thomas said.

“I was, but what you said caught my attention. I have to make up and hear you properly,” Achuba replied.
He got up and switched on the room’s light.

“What did you Richard saying you doing?” Achuba asked.

“He saw me kissing his sister,” Thomas replied.

“Wow! You know you have completely messed up, right?” Achuba said angrily.

“I know, I just couldn’t help it. No girl has ever made me feel like this before,” Thomas helplessly replied.
“I have warned you before, had it been you backed off, it wouldn’t have turned out like this,” Achuba replied.

“I did back off, but she was really mad at for not calling her,” Thomas explained.

“Well, let’s hope Richard will forgive you for doing that,” Achuba said.


Richard woke up early in the morning around 6 am. He couldn’t stop thinking about what happened the night. He kept wondering about what he was going to say to Thomas when he meet him. He remained on his bed for about an hour until Susan finally came.

“Good morning,” she greeted as she walked to him. Without answering, Richard stood up and headed out of the room.
“Are you not going to talk to me?” Susan asked after quickly blocking his way. Richard gently pushed her out of his way and walked out of the room.

He left her in the room and headed to Rebecca’s site. He entered the living room and found Emmanuel watching TV with his school uniform on.

.”Good morning,” Emmanuel greeted him.

“Good morning, how are you?” Richard asked.

“I’m fine, how are you feeling now?” Emmanuel asked.

.”I’m much better now,” Richard replied.

“That’s really nice,” Emmanuel said.

“It looks like you are ready for school,” Richard commented.

“Yes, I wish I wouldn’t go to that horrible place,” Emmanuel said.

“Is that so? Tell exactly why you hate school,” Richard requested.

“I just hate the fact that I have to sit in the place doing some boring things for hours,” Emmanuel complained.

“Is that the only reason why you hate school?” Richard asked.

“Yes I think it is,” he smiled.

“Well, I’m not surprised that you hate school. I used to hate school too when I was young like you,” Richard said.

“Oh really?” Emmanuel asked.

“

THE PINK CLOUDS


#EPISODE_28

 

 

Richard stood and manged to walked out when the senator insisted.

“Let me properly introduce you to him. His name is Richard, we met five years ago before I met you,” Rebecca said as Richard walked out.

“So are you will to give up or relationship over a kid with no future?” The senator asked.

“Absolutely, not only will I give up my relationship with you, I can also give up my life for him,” Rebecca announced.
The senator was silent for a moment until he finally looked up at Richard.

“Can I have a word with you?” He said looking at Richard.

“No whatever you are going to say to him, you can say it in my presence,” Rebecca protested.

“It will only take a minute,” he continued.

“Is okay Rebecca, let me have an audience with him,” Richard said.

“Okay,” she replied and walked back into the room.

“I’m giving you ten million Naira to leave her alone,” the senator offered.

“I’m sorry sir, that won’t be enough,” Richard replied. The senator gave him some evil laugh and moved closer to him.

“I will make it 50 million,” he added.

“Even if you will make it a trillion, I won’t leave her alone,” Richard boldly replied.

“I guess you don’t value your life, haven’t you learnt your lesson yet?” He threatned.

“Rebecca was right afterwards,” Richard responded.
“If you value your life, walk out of her life. This is the last warning I’m going to give you,” he warned.

“Do your worst, I’m not giving up on her,” he answered.

The


senator turned and left after their conversation. That was when Richard realized who he was picking a fight with. He realized he will be left defenseless if he was to be attacked again. But giving up Rebecca is something he would never do.
“Is he gone?” Rebecca asked behind him.

“Yes he is,” Richard replied as he turned.

“What did you discuss with him?” She asked.

“He begged me to give up on you that he loves you so much. He even offered to give me as much as fifty million Naira if I comply,” he informed.

“Oh that’s a huge amount of money, and what was your reply?” She asked walking closer to him expecting him to say something romantic.

“I told I will think about it,” Richard replied.

“What?” Rebecca asked as she stopped walking with her eyes and mouth widely opened.

“Relax baby, I’m just kidding,” Richard laughed.

“You could have committed an unforgivable sin if you really had said that to him,” the anger on face disappeared.
“Do you really think I will choose money over you?” Richard questioned.

“Well, the way you answered scared me. You made sound so real,” she responded.

“I will never do that to Rebecca,” Richard assured.

“I believe you,” she smiled.

“You still haven’t told me what you wanted to eat,” Rebecca said.
“How about some noodles and tea?” Richard smiled.
“Well, let me go to the kitchen and make some for you,” Rebecca replied.
“Alright, let’s go to the kitchen together. I want to see how you cook.”
“That won’t be a problem, but Susan will be left all alone,” Rebecca replied.
“Hey little sis,” Richard shouted.

“What do you want?” Susan shouted back.

.”We’ll be going to the ktichen to cook,” Richard announced to her hearing.

“Really? I thought you are still sick,” she asked.

“I think so,” he responded.

“Okay, but with whom are you going to cook with?” She asked.

“With my wife of course,” Richard replied.

“Okay lover boy, good luck,” she replied.

Richard held Rebecca’s arm and they slowly walked to the kitchen. She brought one of the dining chairs for him to sit on. Richard sat down and watched her go back and front in the kitchen.

“I heard your sister saying she will be going back in the next five days,” Rebecca announced.

“Yes, she said she is going to take care of our niece,” Richard replied.

“Oh, I was wondering if you could talk to her about starting a school here in this University,” Rebecca suggested.

“That’s
a brilliant idea, but how who will take care of our nieces?” Richard asked.
“Well, we can rent a house here for them to stay,” Rebecca said.
“I don’t cause you so much expenses, you have already done so much for me,” Richard complained.

“Don’t worry Richard, I can do anything for you,” she smiled.
He watched her as she cut the onions with small knife.

“Do you know what?” Richard asked.

“What is it?” Rebecca asked as she stopped cutting the onions.
“I have on several occasions imagined myself introducing you to my older sister,” Richard announced.

“Really?”

“Yes, and I can see the happiness the happiness on her face if she sees how perfect my wife is,” Richard said.
“Is really sad that we’ll never get to see her again,” she responded.
“Yes, I really regret leaving five years ago,” Richard announced.
“It must be really so heartbreaking for you,” she replied.
“Yes it is,” he replied.
She continued with her cooking and Richard remained quiet and watched her.
“I’m curious about something,” he revealed.
“What is it?” She asked.
“How did you feel when you discovered that I ran away five years ago?” Richard asked.
“Well, I couldn’t believe it at first. I thought maybe you would come back after some days. I waited and waited but you weren’t back. You were in my dreams for months only I finally gave up at last,” she explained.

“I’m really sorry for causing you all this pain,” Richard apologized.


Thomas returned with Richard’s bag containing his clothes. He went to the guest quarter and found Susan sitting alone in Richard room. She wore an earpiece in ear that she didn’t even notice it when he came in. Thomas, remained quiet for a moment appreciating her beauty. The more he looked at her, the more his desire for her grows. When she looked up, she caught him staring at her. But his desire grew so strong that he couldn’t look away.

“Can I help you?” She asked after removing the earpiece for her ears.

“Where is Richard?” Thomas asked.

“He went to cook with his girlfriend,” she responded.

“Where did they go to?” Thomas asked.

“I don’t know, you can ask them when they return,” she replied putting back her earpiece.

“Susan!” Thomas called out.

“What is it?” She questioned.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t call you. And the excuse I gave back was pretty lame. To be honest, I was scared your brother won’t like you talking to me,” Thomas replied.
“Really? And why would my brother do that?” Susan asked.

“Well, is so hard to explain this,” Thomas replied.

“Aren’t you getting tired of standing?” She said noticing the fact he was standing.

“Actually, I am,” Thomas replied and sat at the edge of the bed.

“So, tell me about your girlfriend,” she asked.

“I don’t have a girlfriend,” Thomas replied.

“

Protected
By Bebe Ernest
Episode 13 & 14
***
Sorry for late update guys.
***

JUSTICE.
I watch her sleep, she whimpers and smile in her sleep, so adorable, she rolls over into my chest and her hair falls into her face.
I brush it out of the way and her she moans, her hand goes to her stomach, she whimpers, i frown, what's wrong?
I watch her for a while as she sleeps,


I think about what happened yesterday, after seeing Selene, I became sick, I could not travel under that condition.
Seeing Selene always gets me like that, I mean I loved the girl for the better part of 5 years.
I feel bile rise to my throat again at what she took from me, the bitch.
I feel my self getting worked up, so I rest back on the bed, it won't do me good to be sick again.
when she wakes, I instantly know, I close my eyes to see what she will do.
She sits up a little and pulls away, she goes to stand but I pull her back, she squeals and turns as she falls on the bed.
"Good morning"
I say and she winces, what? Was I that bad to her?
"Good morning sir"
I frown.
"Drop the sir thing, my name's justice."
Surprise flashes through her eyes , just as it does pain follows.


"What's wrong?"
She shakes her head. "nothing"
"Don't lie to me, itty bitty, what's wrong"
She blushes and hides her face with her hair.
"I have cramps and my stomach is hurting me"
She says it in a rush, that it takes some seconds to understand.

I wince, I know what a pain that could be, I always took care of julliet when she got her period.
"Lie back, give me some minutes."
She does so while looking at Me like she is waiting for me to pounce on her, ok maybe I was really bad to her.
I stand from the bed and I feel an headache Lance through my skull, I guess am not as ok as I thought.
I exit the room and walk downstairs to the kitchen, coughing all the way, I hate having the flu.
I open the fridge and I see some ben & Jerry's ice cream.
Rocky road, that's julliet's favorite, i dont know if she is one of those girls who feel better after they eat sugar, or if sugar makes her cramp more painful.
As I grab this and some spoons I walk upstairs and a thought occurs to me.
She has never gone shopping, does she have sanitary pads?
I enter my room and I see her trying to make her escape.
"Thought I told you to stay on the bed, itty bitty?"
She turns guilty eyes to me and climbs back on the bed.
I climb in too, her eyes light up when she sees the ice cream, well I guess she is one of those girls that feels good after taking sugar.
I open the tub of ice cream and I hand her a spoon.
She takes a big bite and I feel it safe to ask.
"Do you have pads?".
I should not have asked, I see that now, She starts choking on her ice cream and spew some everywhere.
Blood flows to her cheek in a severe blush as she cleans her mouth, I think she is shy.
She looks away.
"Well do you?"
She shakes her head no, I thought so.
"I was going to get yesterday, but..."
"You had to take care of me, has it started, I mean...."
I nod my head to the vicinity of her abdomen and she blushes again while shaking her head no.
I lean over her and grab my cellphone, I scroll through my numbers and I see her looking lost while eating her ice cream, I grab the remote for the big plasma in my room and I tune it to a telenovela.
She immediately starts watching, girls and this shit.
I dial my PA's number.

"Good morning boss man"
Only Lydia can get away with talking to me like that, well seeing as she is 10 years older than me and I am a God father to both of her kids, I think she deserves some slack.
"I need some pads lyddie"
I see magic glance at me.
I hear silence over the phone.
"Lydia?, Did you hear me?"

"Hear you loud and clear boss man, but am thinking if you need some pad for writing or the girly kind?"
I like lyddie, I do, she is badass at her job and she takes shit from no body, but right now she is getting on my last nerve.
"Lydia, get some tampons, pads, tissue, anything, I want it in my house in an hour"
I glance at magic when she tugs at my shirt.
"Can she please get the Always brand? and some pain relieve drug?"
I hear Lydia take in a deep breath on the other end of the phone.
"Boss man?...…you have a woman with you? On a Saturday morning?"
I raise an eyebrow, what's that supposed to mean?
"Lydia, just get the shit here, I know you heard her request".
I disconnect, I know Lydia will either be here or she will send a delivery guy, she is competent like that.
And also I pay her a ton of money for her to be at my beck and call even on weekends.

(Let me just say, arrogant much?-bebe)
I turn to magic and she is watching her show while eating her ice cream, I pull her into Me as I settle back on the headboard, she stiffens but after a while relaxes.
I take my spoon and eat a bite of the feté, I grimace, how do girls stomach this shit?

She looks at my expression and giggles.
Ha, glad my plight looks funny to her.
After a while I feel rather than see her gather herself, as if she has something to say.
"What is it bitty?"
"What happened last night"
I tense, I don't like talking about my weakness
. Selene.
"It's ok if you don't want to talk about it"

"I saw Selene on my way to the airport"
"Your girlfriend?"
I stiffen.
"That b**ch is not my girlfriend"
"Ok....."
I sigh.
"Selene is my ex, when my sister julliet traveled to the states, I started dating her, I thought she was good, kind, wife material even"
She nods, I go on.
"I was wrong, i was so wrong"
"What did she do?"
I take a bite of the ice cream, I need something Cold to clear the storm in my stomach.
"I found out she took money from my father"
She nods again.
"You see during that time, she told me she was pregnant, I was overjoyed, we were going to keep the baby, get married, but I had a crisis in my company at that time, I was just so busy, it looked like I might loose my company"
I feel her stiffen, she leans and place the tub of ice cream on the night stand, she turns her full attention to me.
"I think she thought I would loose the company too, I don't know why she did it, her parents are very wealthy"
I feel pain run through me as I remember the day, the way I ran from the airport when I got the news from Lydia that Selene just left my father's office and she seemed to be on her way to the hospital, and not for a check up.
Magic grabs my hand and I feel the pain fall back.
"Long story short, she took money from my dad, decided I wasn't worth it, decided my baby wasn't worth it so she aborted my seed."
Tears fills Magic's eyes , she climbs into my lap and gives me a big hug.
"I wanted that Baby with everything I had, she killed my child."
I feel her tears soak my shirt and I wonder, who is this girl that is crying for a child that is not hers?
Hurting for a man that was cruel to her.
"I channeled my anger into my company, a company my dad refused to help me salvage because it was left to me by my mother"
She shakes with great sobs.
"I am successful, I am great, I have everything now, any child of mine will never know suffer"
I stroke her head as she cries, I feel free, light even, I feel ok now that I have told someone about my Amelia, my baby girl.
Who is this girl?
This girl that gives of herself without wanting anything in return?
Who is this girl that has woken emotions inside me that I tried to ignore?

***
MAGIC.
We spend all of Saturday and Sunday in bed, only getting up to bath, eat or use the toilet.
We talked about everything and nothing.
How I want to go to school, my fashion designing dream, everything, he says he will look up some schools for me.
I didnt really hold that to mind, because it was at the same time
His PA brought my stuff, I wanted to go get it but he stopped me, saying something about gossipping and nosy ass people.
It's Monday, I have to wake up now, reality has set in, I wake up early and exit the bed, before I leave he holds me back.
"Where are you going?"
He mumbled.
"I have to go and get ready for miss julliet and Mr Justin's arrival"
"Miss and Mr, so cute..."
He says this sleepily and he turns letting me go.
I exit the room and just in time, because Alec bounds in as i step into the hallway.
"Magic!"
"Hey, Alec, how was your trip?"
"It was awesome!"
I nod as he passes me.
I enter my room and quickly take my bath and I go down stairs.
As I prepare breakfast I think about what justice told me.
I can't believe some women can be that despicable, throwing away your baby for money.
I feel anger on Justice's behalf, I mean who does that.
I feel my self getting worked up so I make an effort to relax.
Well it was shot to hell when justice enters the kitchen.
"Good morning"
I greet, he nods, looks like we are back to master - slave interaction.
I sigh.
I turn to the toaster and in pull out a loaf of bread.
I turn to see him standing right behind me.
I squeak.
He kisses my temple, am stunned motionless, what?
I turn to him.
"Did you hear me itty bitty?"
I shake my head no.
"I can't have breakfast, I have work at the office, I have to go, just came in to tell you"
He came in to tell me
Since when?
I nod, his other words get through to me so i tug on his shirt, he turns to me.
"You were sick, can't you take today off?"
He shakes his head and strokes my hair out of the way.
"Can't baby, but will be back early"..
Baby, I feel tingles run through me.
Oh boy.
I nod and he grabs a greasy bacon with a serviette and exits.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
I set the table and I see everyone is present except Mr Justin and master justice, of course.
I ask about Mr Justin and miss julliet says he isnt back yet from where ever he went.
I nod.
"So how was your trip?"
I ask and julliet turns to me away from Mr sage.
There's something about their relationship now, it seems deeper in a way.
"It was awesome, Sage's mother got me this bracelet".
She holds out her hand and I admire.
"It looks good"
She beams, I turn to Alec and I wipe grease off his face.
He beams.
"So how was your weekend? I heard justice was around,"
I choke on my juice, did he say something? Is she angry?
I nod.
"My weekend was fine, it was ok"
I don't look at her but I feel her looking at me speculatively, I hear Mr sage say .
"Jackpot"
What does that mean?

********************
MAGIC.
It's the afternoon, am trying to mow the lawn, so I don't hear Mr Justin calls over the sound.
I squeal when someone taps me.
I jump a little.
"Calm down little one, it's just me"
I clutch at my chest as I bend to off the mower.
"Good afternoon sir, you are back"
"Yes Magic, I am, I have some good news"
I dust my hand and wait for the news.
"We found your bag and everything seems to be intact"
I squeal .
"Where is it?"
He points to in the direction of the house and I take off running, I hear him following me.
When I enter, i see julliet poking at to the bag with her feet and looking suspiciously at it.
I almost laugh, I guess it does look out of place in the granduer of this house.
"Is this yours?"
She asks, I nod as I kneel and open it looking for something specifically.
I squeal as I see the phone kelechi gave me.
I turn around and I throw myself at Justin.
I kiss his cheek as he spins me around.
"Thank you, oh thank you so much"
I laugh, when he stops spinning me I see justice standing at the door way looking indifferent.
Oh shot.

***************************************
Justice.
All day at work, I could not function, I thought of her, magic.
Lydia came in and tried to make me talk but I just told her to stay out of my buisness.
She let's off.
I glance at the clock and I see its past two.
Might as well close up shop, am not getting anything done as I sit down here mooning over a girl like a puppy.
I exit my office with my briefcase and I about heard Lydia's mouth hit the floor in surprise.
"Boss man you are going home?"
"Seems so, forward all calls to my private phone"
I walk towards the door, I stop at her words.
"Who ever she is boss man, keep her, she is good this time I can tell,"
I don't respond just exit..
On my way home I pass a mall and i pull into their parking lot.
I exit and walk inside.
I go to the confectioneries aisle and I get some Rocky road ice cream, seems she liked it on Saturday, I get some Hershey's kisses chocolate and a some milky way chocolate.
As I walk to the cashier I pass a phone aisle.
I peruse the various brands and I settle on an iPhone, I get it and make my way to the cashier.
She needs a phone, I get it .
I pay and I exit.
I drive home.
I feel good about this.
Imagine my surprise when I got to my house and I see my stupid brother who has a death wish by the way, spinning her around.
And the woman seems to be kissing him right back.
What the ever loving hell?
I know she had a little bit of a crush on my brother, it was obvious, I expected nothing less seeing that he saved her.
But I thought julliet put her on the right track.
Justin is Sandra's.
She sees me and she stop, taking a step away from Justin.
Good at least subconsciously she knows I don't like that shit.
"Good afternoon Justy"
I kiss julliet on the head as she makes her way to me.
"What do you have there? Are they for me?"
I shake my head no, I walk to magic and I hand the bag to her.
I walk out of the room and into the Hallway.
Am pissed.
As I leave I hear julliet ask.
"So what the hell really happened during the weekend?"

For more stories visit www.dapalace.com

Tbc

The Fault in our Romance Episode 8
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
***********************************
(Next Day)
(At Hillwood Central Hospital)

Dr Mike: Good morning ma'am.

Veronica: Good morning Dr Mike, I'm here to Stephen.

Dr Mike: Okay, That's not a problem. You can go in.

Veronica: Thank you.

(In Stephen's ward)

Veronica: Good morning Stephen.

(Stephen ignores her)

Veronica: Umm... I brought you breakfast. (She brings out a food flask from the bag she's holding) It's chicken soup noodles, I hope you enjoy it.

Stephen: (fed up) Look Veronica, No matter what you do, I'll never forgive you for coming in between my parents and making my dad divorce my mom, So if you're trying to get me to like you.... That's never gonna happen!

Veronica: (sighs) That's fine.

(She drops the food on the table beside his bed and then leaves his ward)

(In the ocean - The Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)
(Silvania enters the castle and heads to the princess' room when she sees Prince Erik)

Silvania: (smiles) Prince Erik, Hi.

Prince Erik: Hey Silvania. You're here early.

Silvania: Yeah, I want to avoid the princess' wrath

Prince Erik: There's something I like about you, Silvania... You're self assured, resolute. I really admire that about you. (Silvania stares at him without saying anything) Anyways. Umm... I got you a gift.

Silvania: Hmm, What is it?

Prince Erik: (smiles) It's a surprise. You know what, Just come to my room before you leave the castle.

Silvania: Sure. No problem

(In Princess Marianna's chambers)

Silvania: Good morning my princess.

Princess Marianna: (she ignores her greetings) You're late.

Silvania: Ummm, I'm sorry my princess. I didn't realize there was a standard time for me to be at the castle.

Princess Marianna: There is. Anyways, I need you to clean my room thoroughly. I don't want any grime of sea dust to be in here.

Silvania: No problem my princess. I'll clean it perfectly.

(Silvania starts cleaning the room while Princess Marianna stares at her with utmost disdain)

Princess Marianna: Where were you yesterday?

Silvania: How do you mean?

Princess Marianna: I mean, After I told you to go home... Where did you go?

Silvania: I went home.

Princess Marianna: Oh really, Cause I came to your house few hours after you left but I didn't see you. Why is that?

(Silvania realizes what Princess Marianna is trying to do but she smartly covers up)

Silvania: Oh, My mom sent me out to collect some seaweeds. That's was why I wasn't home.

Princess Marianna: (angered) Ok then. (thinks) Argh! There's no way i can get this girl to admit that she's the one who's been sneaking up to the surface without me exposing myself.

Silvania: (thinks) Oh no, It seems Princess Marianna knows that I'm the mermaid who went up to the surface.... I just hope she doesn't tell the King

(Later that day)
(Silvania is about to leave the castle)

Silvania: Oh yeah, Prince Erik told me to come to his room before leaving... I totally forgot.

(Silvania goes to Prince Erik's room and sees him eating)

Silvania: Good evening my prince, I hope I'm not interrupting your supper...

Prince Erik: No, It's fine.

Silvania: Earlier today, You told me to come and see you

Prince Erik: Yeah, I want to give you something. (He hands her the gift)

Silvania: (she unwraps it and sees a necklace made of shiny pearls) Wow....

Prince Erik: I made it for you.

Silvania: Thanks. (she puts on the necklace and checks herself in the mirror) Its so beautiful.

Prince Erik: (admiring her) It really brings your eyes.

Silvania: Yeah it does. Thank you so much my prince.

Prince Erik: Just call me "Erik" (smiles)

Silvania: Okay, Erik. So, I'll be talking my leave now. We'll see tomorrow, Thanks once again for the present.

Prince Erik: You're welcome.

Silvania: Bye

Prince Erik: (smiling) Bye.

(She leaves his room)

(Meanwhile)
(Hillwood Central Hospital)
(Bethany and Alex visits Stephen)

Bethany: Stephen! (She rushes to his bed and hugs him)

Stephen: (surprised) Whoa, What're are you guys doing here? I thought you both got hospitalized as well.

Alex: We were. But we got discharged yesterday, The injuries we sustained were very very minor.

Bethany: Yeah, And I'm now much better.

Stephen: It's good to see you guys once again. (He hugs her again)

Bethany: I hope you've had something to eat?

Stephen: Yes. I had the chicken soup noodles my stepmom brought. I have to admit, Even though I hate her, Her food tastes nice.

Alex: (chuckles)

Bethany: I'm glad those men we're able to rescue us from drowning.

Stephen: Yea but they said found us at the seashore, They didn't pull us out from the car.

Alex: (confused) Then who did?

Stephen: There is something you should know.

Bethany: (curiously) What is that?

Stephen: I saw a girl.

Bethany: (perplexed) A girl?

Stephen: Yes. It was a girl, She rescued me and treated my injuries before I was brought to the hospital. She might've been the one who rescued us, She said her name is....

Bethany: (she interrupts him) Don't be ridiculous. You know what? Maybe we should call Dr Mike to check on you. The things you're saying right now are incoherent.

Stephen: Yeah, Maybe you should.

Bethany: Okay then.

(Bethany pecks him on the cheek)

Bethany: Get well soon.

(Meanwhile)
(Silvania sneaks up to the surface once again and goes to the seashore where she kept Stephen )

Silvania: (looks around) I can't find him anywhere... (sadly) I just wish I could see him again.

(Just then, A fisherman spots her)

Fisherman 1: Mermaid!

Fisherman 2: Where?

Fisherman 1: There's a mermaid in the water, Over there! (He points)

(The fishermen grab their nets and rushes into the water to capture Silvania)

Silvania: Oh no....

(Silvania quickly dives back into the water and swims away for her safety)

(Underwater - The Mer Kingdom)
(At Donald's house)

Simon: Silvania what's wrong? You've been acting different ever since we returned back from the surface.

(Silvania glances at him)

Simon: It's because of that human that you rescued isn't it?

Silvania: His name is Stephen. And yes, It's because of him.... I really miss him. I admire that human, Simon... I really want to see him again, I want to know him. I wish you'd understand how I feel.

Simon: (slightly disgusted) So you're falling in love?

Silvania: I think so. I've never felt this way before. (sighs) I just wish I can become human.

(Simon puts on a fallacious look and Silvania notices this)

Silvania: Simon, Is there something you know?

Simon: It's nothing.

Silvania: Simon, Please If there's any way you can help me get to that human... I'd be really grateful.

Simon: (sighs) Fine. A friend of mine once told me about Anika.

Silvania: What's Anika?

Simon: Not "What", Who.

Silvania: Okay... Who's Anika?

Simon: She's a mermaid that specializes in juju. She helps other merfolks to grant their wishes in exchange for a large amount of coins. She could help you become human, That way, You can venture into the human world without the fear of being captured or killed and get to know that human.

Silvania: (excitedly) You really think she can help me?
For more stories visit www.dapalace.com
Simon: It's worth a try...

To be Continued

The Fault in our Romance Episode 7
(He's human, She's a mermaid)
Written by Johnny Patel
Please don't comment next or next please
*********************************
(At Sir Griffin's mansion)

Veronica: Darling, There's good news! I just got a call that Stephen's body has been found and he has been taken to the hospital.

Sir Griffin: (sighs) Thank goodness... We have to rush to the hospital right away.

Veronica: Okay

(Meanwhile)
(Underwater - The Mer Kingdom)
(Princess Marianna and Suzanne return to back to the castle)

King Jerod: Marianna, Where have you been? I've been looking all over the castle for you.

Princess Marianna: (nervously) Umm.... Suzanne and I just went out for a swim.

Suzanne: (she nods her head in affirmation)

King Jerod: Without the guards?

Princess Marianna: I didn't need them. Besides, I didn't go far.

King Jerod: Okay then. But next time, Take some guards with you before leaving the castle. Is that okay?

Princess Marianna: Yes Daddy.

(In Princess Marianna's chambers)

Suzanne: Phew. That was close.... Why didn't you report Silvania to your father?

Princess Marianna: I wanted to. But I figured out that if I reported her, I could expose the fact that I went up to the surface as well. And that would mean I would be severely punished as well, I don't want that.

Suzanne: Oh yeah.

Princess Marianna: You know I've been thinking about that human ever since. I've never set my eyes on anyone as handsome as he is.

Suzanne: Yeah, He's really dreamy.

Princess Marianna: He's definitely the reason Silvania snuck out of our kingdom to the surface. Ugh, I really want that scummy maid to be killed. She irks me so much.

Suzanne: We'll have to find another way to nail her then.

Princess Marianna: (smirks) Absolutely.

(Later)
(At Donald's house)

Beatrice: Kids! You're just in time for dinner..

Simon: (chuckles) We're not kids anymore, Mom. Silvania and I are adults

Beatrice: Well, You're still my kids.

Donald: (To Simon) Where'd you go?

Simon: Uhhh, I just went out to for a swim.

Beatrice: Okay then. Settle down for dinner (smiles) And tonight, We're having something different.... We're having shrimps.

Simon: (he takes a shrimp and eats it) Mmmm, It actually tastes yummy.

Beatrice: Yup.

Simon: You're the best mother in the whole ocean, Mom.

Donald: (he holds her by the waist) And the best wife in the whole ocean.

Beatrice: (smiles) Thank you. (She notices Silvania's mood) Sweetie, Are you okay? You haven't touched your food.

Silvania: It's nothing... I'm fine

Beatrice: How'd it go today?

Silvania: It went well. Fortunately, That bratty princess didn't pester me today.

Beatrice: Alright then, Eat. (She pushes the food towards her)

(Hillwood City)
(At the foster home)

Williams: Dinner's ready, Lucas. It's mashed potatoes. Let's go downstairs to eat.

Lucas: Nahh, I'll when I come back. I'm going out today again.

Williams: To see the fireworks?

Lucas: Yep.

Williams: I wanna come with you, I've always wanted to see how it looked like.

Lucas: Sure you can. But we'll go with Bobby and we'll have to inform Mr Blackwell before leaving.

Williams: Definitely.

(Later on)
(Lucas, Bobby and Williams go to see the fireworks)

Bobby & Williams: (amazed) Whoa...

Williams: Now I understand why you usually sneak out, This is a wonderful sight to behold.

Lucas: It sure is. It cheers me up everytime.

(Meanwhile)
(At Hillwood Central Hospital)
(Sir Griffin and Veronica rushes into the hospital)

Sir Griffin: (jittery) Dr Mike...

Dr Mike: Good evening Sir Griffin...

Sir Griffin: Please save the pleasantries, I'm here for my son.

Dr Mike: Oh yes, He was brought here yesterday.

Sir Griffin: How is he?

Dr Mike: He's doing okay. When he was brought here, He sustained just a few injuries but it looked like some of them had been treated by someone else... But he'll have to recover fully before he's discharged.

Sir Griffin: Can we see him?

Dr Mike: Yes, you can.

(Sir Griffin and Veronica enter Stephen's ward)

Sir Griffin: (sighs) Stephen... (He goes to sit on Stephen's bed and hugs him) I'm so gratified that you're okay. I don't know what I'd do if you had died

Stephen: (uninterested) I'm fine, Dad. (He breaks the hug)

Veronica: I hope you're getting better now Stephen?

(Stephen ignores her)

Sir Griffin: (To Stephen) The doctor said you'll have to stay here for a little while. But don't worry, Your stepmom is gonna go home and bring something sumptuous for you to eat. Alright?

Stephen: Ok Dad.....Could you please excuse me, I need some rest.

Sir Griffin: It's fine.

(He and Veronica leaves Stephen's ward)

Veronica: (sighs) He hates me.

Sir Griffin: Don't talk that way. You know he's just recovering from an accident... Give him time

(In the Mer Kingdom)
(At the castle)
(Prince Erik goes to his sister's chambers)

Princess Marianna: Erik! What're you doing in my room?

Prince Erik: Calm down sis. I want to talk with you.

Princess Marianna: About what?

Prince Erik: It's about your handmaid, Silvania. I really admire her. She's pretty, hardworking, hearsome....

Princess Marianna: (disgusted) Don't be gross.

Prince Erik: Well, I just wanted to know if....

Princess Marianna: (she interrupts him) To know if she ever talked about you or likes you? Don't even go there! Daddy would never approve of you dating a scummy maid.

Prince Erik: You're right...

Princess Marianna: Of course I'm right. So whatever you're thinking, You'd better abandon that gross thought. Umm... Could you please excuse me, I wanna get some sleep.

Prince Erik: Okay. Goodnight.

(Princess Marianna stares at Prince Erik in disgust as he leaves her room)

Princess Marianna: (enraged) Ewww, I can't believe my brother is falling for that silly worthless maid. I have to find a way to nail Silvania and get her killed before she gets anyone else under her spell!

To be Continued

How about you? Which school are you attending?” Thomas asked.
“Actually, I finished my highschool four years ago, and I haven’t start any school yet,” she replied.
“Oh that’s quite bad, what were you planning on doing?” He asked.
“I’m planning on getting married,” she revealed.
“Seriously? Aren’t you too young for marriage?” Thomas asked surprisingly.

“Yes seriously, I’m 21 years old. I don’t think I’m too young for it,” she smiled.

“Wow! You are even older than I am,” Thomas said.

“Really? How old are you?” She asked.

“I’m 18 years old,” Thomas revealed.

“That’s great,” she commented.

“I think we should be heading back to room,” she added.

“Yes you are right. But before then, can you please give me your phone number?” Thomas requested.

“Okay let me have your phone,” she replied.
She punched her phone number on the phone after he gave her the phone.

“Here you go,” she said handing him the phone.

“Thank you,” Thomas smiled.

“Don’t just call me in the night, I hate when people do that,” she said frowning.

“Oh I promise I will never call you in the night,” Thomas said.

“Relax, I’m kidding,” she smiled and started walking her way back to the room.

Some minutes later, Thomas walked into the room and sat beside Achuba.

“What did you go to check on?” Richard asked.

“It is nothing important,” Thomas replied. Achuba was about to comment when Rebecca came in with Alice.
“I think we should go,” Thomas whispered to Achuba.

“Alright Richard, we’ll be going now,” Achuba said as they stood up.

“Okay guys, I will see you later,” Thomas replied and they headed out of the room.

“Are you interested in Richard’s sister?” Achuba asked Thomas after they have gotten out of the room.

“Yes I am,” Thomas replied.

“You should really consider what you are doing before things get bad. Is not every boy that will stand his friends dating his sister, it can be the cause of the end of your friendship,” Achuba adviced.

“I just feel something I never felt before when I’m around other girls,” Thomas replied.

“You don’t always get what you disire in life, sometimes you have to give it up,” Achuba admonished.

“I’ll try,” Thomas replied.


One week later, Richard finally got discharged from the hospital. Rebecca suggested that he should stay with his sister in her place until he’s fully recovered. The doctor gave him the final check up and he was adviced on things to do to improve his health.
At around 10 am, Richard was ready to leave the hospital. Thomas and Achuba helped Richard to walk to
Rebecca’s car that was parked outside while Susan and Rebecca walked behind them. Rebecca quickly walked to the car and had the car opened for them. Richard, Thomas and Achuba sat at the back, while Rebecca and Susan sat in the front. Rebecca started the engine and started started driving after everyone had sat down.

“So, doesn’t that mean his shooter has gone free without getting arrested?” Susan questioned.

“Well, the shooter was not identified that’s why the police couldn’t arrest anybody,” Achuba explained.

“That’s really annoying. That means he could have died in vain,” Susan said angrily.

“Why would anyone try to kill him in the first place?” Thomas questioned.

“Perhaps, he was been mistaken for another person,” Achuba replied.

“No, I think it was my ex that tried to kill him,” Rebecca replied.

“Really?” Everyone in the car asked surprisingly.

“I think he is the one because Richard was short on the day I announced to him that our relationship is over. My mom has warned me about how dangerous he could be, but I was blinded during our relationship,” Rebecca announced.

“Is that so? Then why don’t we sue him?” Susan asked.

“Is not that easy you know. I talked to my mother’s lawyer about it but he said I don’t have any solid evidence to prove my point. Had it been the shooter was identified, it could have been easier,” Rebecca explained.

“Let’s forget about everything now that I’m alive and healthy,” Richard finally spoke.

“No I don’t think so, what if he tries to kill you again?” Rebecca asked.

“Well, there is nothing we can do about it,” Richard replied.
They arrived at Prof. Grace’s house some few minutes later. The gate was opened for them and Rebecca drove into the house.
After the car came to halt, Achuba helped Richard to get down from the car.
“Let me lead you to his room,” Rebecca said as she walked in the direction of the guest quarter.
“Oh that will be helpful,” Achuba replied. Richard and Achuba walked gently to guest rooms that was located behind a small flower garden leaving behind Susan and Thomas.
Thomas looked up into her eyes and she looked extremely beautiful in the red dress she was wearing. His heart pounded faster as she walked closer to him.
“Why didn’t you call me after I gave you my number?” She asked.
“I’m sorry, I was very busy,” Thomas replied.
“Oh I see,” she said and headed towards where Richard was taken.
“Look I’m really for not calling you,” he tried to apologize.
“No, you don’t have to apologize,” she responded without even looking back that was when he realized he gave the wrong excuse.
Before he caught up with her, she had already gotten to the room.

“We will go to the hostel and get his stuff,” Achuba announced as soon as Susan walked in.

“Thank you,” Richard said.

“No problem, we’ll be back soon,” Achuba said and walked out.

“What would you like to eat?” Rebecca asked as she sat beside Richard.

“Nothing, I’m satisfied just by looking at you,” Richard replied.
“That’s a pretty big like you are saying,” Rebecca responded.
“Do I look like I’m lying?” Richard asked turning back to Susan who was standing by the door.
“You look like a fabulous lier,” she smiled.

“Oh so you are even supporting her because she is a girl like you,” Richard said with his eyes widely opened.

Before any of them could talk, one of the security guards of the house interrupted.

“The senator is here,” he announced.
“You go and tell him that I’m not ready to see him, he should leave,” Rebecca replied.

“I’m sorry Ma’am, I don’t think I’ll be to say this to the senator,” the security guard replied.
“Then in that case you will fired,” she said angrily.

“Oh please calm down. Just ignore him, he will leave when he get tired,” Richard interfered.

“I think Richard is right,” Susan supported.

Shortly after that, the senator headed to guest room himself. The instance Rebecca saw him through the window, she stood up and walked out the room.

“I thought I made it clear to you that is over between us,” she uttered angrily when she got to where he was.
“I’m sorry, I just couldn’t stop thinking about you for the past day,” said he helplessly.

“There are plenty of girls out there, why can’t you get yourself one with all the money you have?” She questioned.

“In all the women I’ve met in my life, you are exceptionally the best. I didn’t realize that until now.”

“I’m afraid is too late now, I’m already in a relationship with someone,” Rebecca rejected.
“You can’t be serious, right?” He doubted.

“I’m so damn serious,” she answered.

Richard stood and managed to walked out when the senator insisted.

“Let me properly introduce you to him. His name is Richard, we met five years ago ,before I met you,” Rebecca said as Richard walked out.

“So are you willing to give up or relationship over a kid with no future?” The senator asked.

“Absolutely, not only will I give up my relationship with you, I can also give up my life for him,” Rebecca announced.



The senator was silent for a moment until he finally looked up at Richard.

“Can I have a word with you?” He said looking at Richard.
“No whatever you are going to say to him, you can say it in my presence,” Rebecca protested.
“It will only take a minute,” he continued.

“Is okay Rebecca, let me have an audience with him,” Richard said.

“Okay,” she replied and walked back into the room.

“I’m giving you ten million Naira to leave her alone,” the senator offered.

“I’m sorry sir, that won’t be enough,” Richard replied. The senator gave him some evil laugh and moved closer to him.
“I will make it 50 million,” he added.

“Even if you will make it a trillion, I won’t leave her alone,” Richard boldly replied.

“I guess you don’t value your life, haven’t you learnt your lesson yet?” He threaned.



 

 

Story_CONTINUES