***
Okiemute was in her store located at Ogorode Road in Sapele. She was talking to a customer who had just bought some snacks ''...tell your mother I said I got her text but she needs to balance me for the last time before she can place another order''

''She said she has finished paying you''

''She has not but don’t worry I'll call her myself''

''Aunty what of Cass?'' the young girl asked.

''She is at her day-care''

''Okay bye aunty''

''Bye greet your mother for me and tell her to
hurry up with the payment. Weekends are very busy for me and if she does not clear the balance, I will by pass her. Tell her I said I will by pass her'' then Okiemute chuckled as the girl skipped away.

It had been quite some time since she left Lagos but she was coping just fine. She never thought she
would find herself in Sapele again but it was not so
bad after all. The most important thing was money and she was making it here. She could definitely do better in a place like Lagos but she had decided to remain some more at least until her daughter had grown up a bit. She had all the help in the world and she was saving money for now.

Some of her biggest clients were the wedding planners, brides or people who were celebrating one event or the other. Sometimes she made mad
money when she organized her small chops training class. The other day, she had about 7 students and she charged them ₦10000 per head but that was because she added cocktails and
smoothies to their training. She was quite good at
what she did plus she usually traveled to Lagos to get the latest hands-on training once something new came up.

Suddenly the door began to rattle and Cosmos
stepped in with their son, Junior. He ran to meet her and she picked him and twirled him around ''did
you have fun at the day-care today?'' Blossom asked.

He began to babble and she laughed at him. She dropped him on the floor while he scrambled for the staircase ''easy now Junior'' Blossom yelled. She
smiled at her husband and they kissed lightly ''how was your day?'' he asked.

''Good until just now''

''I almost asked. You had this worried look when we
first walked in'' They held hands and sat on a couch and Blossom told him about the call ''are you
okay?'' Cosmos asked in concern.

''Just stunned that’s all''

''Have you blocked the number?''

''Yes''

''Then don’t worry about it. You did the right thing and you just have to be persistent with it. If I need to step in I would but you're doing just fine'' He smiled at her then tapped her shoulder and stood up from the chair ''what's cooking?'' He asked.

''What would you like? Mac and cheese?''

''Chei! This woman don’t kill me oh! I'm thinking correct swallow and one kain soup and you're talking Mac and cheese. C'mon lets go and see what you have in that kitchen of yours'' Then Blossom got up and the pair began to gist about the day's events.

As she spoke, Cosmos sat on a high stool and
watched her. She brought out several containers
from the fridge and continued to talk about school, her lecturer, friends and her test results.

Suddenly she stopped in mid sentence and whispered ''I love you''

''And I love you more'' Cosmos replied. He walked up to her and they held hands and kissed tenderly''

''Eww!'' Nkem and Chichi sang at the same time and the pair broke away ''that is rude'' Blossom announced.

''Daddy welcome'' Nkem sang. ''Mummy what are we having?''

''Something traditional; something that reminds us of home"

"I'll have pizza then..."

"Me too" Chichi replied.

"No you won't!" Cosmos replied. "That's no food, its not nutritious enough!"

"But cheese, meat and tomato is healthy"

"Stop it!" Blossom replied "and don't talk back to your daddy. You are in America but you are first a Nigerian besides that's refined meat, frozen cheese and tomato paste. How is that healthy?"

"Oops, sorry" Nkem replied.

"Pizza is for another day, now where is your brother?''

''He's right behind…look at him''

''Get him, everyone sit at the table and let's talk
about our day. Dinner is almost ready'' Then the
children continued to chatter and entertain their parents.

Suddenly her older children began to yell from the bedroom and she hissed. She climbed up the stairs a bit and yelled at them ''what is going on there abi
should I come up there and twist your mouth?''

Suddenly it became quiet again then her phone began to ring. It was the landline and she ran to get it ''hello'' she sang in a breathless tone. The line was quiet for some seconds before someone from her
past spoke ''sup chic''

For some seconds, she was stunned. When she finally got her voice, she asked ''how did you get this
number?''

''It’s a small world after all''

''What do you want?''

''I hear you are in the country now so…''

''What is wrong with you this woman? Don’t call this number again. I'm going to block you the moment I
drop this call. I want nothing to do with you. I don’t
need you in my life and let me remind you, this is America not Nigeria. They take stalking seriously in this part of the world. Don’t let me involve the authorities. Belinda…I swear I will if you call one more time''

''I'm sorry if I called at the wrong time''

''It's always going to be a wrong time with me Belinda. It's been months and if you still don’t get it, then I can't help you. I am over this thing and you need help. You are beyond redemption…''

''I'm sorry if I'm intruding but I just thought to…''

''No you shut up and listen, I'm happy with Cosmos and my kids. Never call this line and don’t you ever
contact me again'' Then Blossom hung up and stared into space. Some seconds later, she reached for the phone and blocked the number. She was shocked Belinda had managed to get her number or even know she had relocated.

55

6 months later

It was a different setting, in another place in time.
Blossom heard a honk and looked outside her window. She had just returned from another grueling class but her day was far from being over.

She was proud of herself though, she aced her last test and it was no mean feat for a pure art student who had moved to the sciences. She could not wait to tell Cosmos all about it. In the meantime, she admired the view from her window and smiled at the small cactus plant by the corner of her house.

She could barely believe this was her life now. Sometimes she still pinched herself to believe this was true. Like her husband once said, everything was good in America. Well her new friend in church told her it was not so good once she got used to it. But right now, Blossom didn’t care. It was the second month of their relocation and everything seemed just fine.

She opened the fridge and it was always cold. She didn’t have to worry about lack of cold water or the power going out. However there was something else and she had been getting used to. It was work, work and more work but it wasn’t so bad once the check hit her hand. Soon she would have to head out again for her evening shift at the large mall. For now she worked at the deli section of a large retail shop.

Sometimes it was confusing with the food and stuff
but she was definitely getting the hang of it. She had crazy colleagues at work but they were most helpful and certainly friendly. Some were old while others were young but they had one thing was common - they didn’t take life seriously. They swore a lot and spoke in the same manner - that fast, head
spinning, rrrrrrrrrr curling manner she was fast getting used to.

Most times the younger tattoo loving colleagues used weird terms that her kids were picking up too and the amusing thing was that it was always said in unison eg "aww! Ouch, that's gotta hurt, I wanna, I gotta, Awesome! Cool! Crazy! Weirdo! Grab a drink, grab a this, grab a that...

PART 3

Thanks to my amazing readers. I will make this part 3. The beginning of part 2 is from after university. I forgot to make note of it then.

''I had no idea this thing was like that''

''And that is what you should tell him when you see him. Belinda's matter is another case entirely but the most important thing is that he is ready for
reconciliation. A willing heart is what we prayed for and this should put an end to seeking your own accommodation. This should make you happy''

''I'm going to pack my bags now'' Ebube yelled.

''And I'm going to pick my son now''

''Isioma… Isi, are you still there?''

''Ehen? What is it?''

''Thank you. I could never thank you enough for this''

''What are you thanking me for? I haven’t delivered anything yet; the real work starts with both of you. I don’t know the language I managed to speak but God knows I spoke from the depth of my heart.

''Thank you''

''Your husband is tougher than I once imagined
so don’t expect red roses on the floor leading all the way up to your bedroom. Like I said, he gave some stringent conditions but I believe you are better
off solving the issue in the same house. I believe it will get better with time. He is not happy now but I see hope''

''How could I ever repay you?''

''By doing right by your husband and kids. Live well and you'll be fine. Oh and maybe coming to visit me more often. My house is not only for when you are having problems''

''Thank you sis''

''In any case, are you saying I have done something good for you in this life? Would you dare equate me to your darling Uche who has been here for you?''

''Oh Isi don’t joke''

''Are you still on the phone?'' Isioma yelled in faux
annoyance. Thereafter Ebube hung up and Isioma began to laugh in the silence of her car.

***
As Isioma walked towards her car,she called her younger
sister. She didn’t have to wait for long before Ebube
replied ''hello''

''Where are you?'' Isioma asked.

''Where else? Your house nah''

''Pack your things and get ready to leave''

''Ehn?''

''Look at the time and I'm just leaving your place. I don’t want to argue and trust me this is for your own good. I'm going to be pick Dozie now and I need you to be gone before I …''

''What happened?''

''Your husband is now open to reconciliation but there are loads of huddles ahead. Me, I've done my own and the rest is left for you people to manage''

''Jesus! How did you do it? What did you say…''

''Ebube, The first thing you should do is apologize for getting your pastor involved in your husband's health issue. I barely know what I'm saying myself but that is how Charles put the story''

By now Ebube was crying profusely ''oh God, was that it? Was that the problem? Was that
where it went wrong?''

''I think that was the beginning of the problem with your husband. He took it as an assault on his
person. I'm not quite sure you understood the implication of what you did and that was what he said. According to him, that was the most hurtful part and for him, you never realized that bit. You tossed it aside and he could not communicate with you on that level again… sexually I mean''

''Oh God! But he didn't say anything all those while I asked''

''I don’t know why Charles took it like that but that’s the man you married. It's your duty to study him and know what he can and cannot take. Some men wouldn’t have carried that grievance on like that but unfortunately Charles did. Charles is who he is after all''

By 3.30pm Charles arrived with the children and a family member. It was clear to see they were back from a shopping trip. The small group made their way inside the house and Isioma spent some more time chatting with her nephew and nieces. Thereafter she was on her own and began to wait for her in-law. By the time Charles was ready to see her, Isioma felt tired. She was so tired she felt like crying.

Charles on the other hand was most apologetic but Isioma brushed his apology aside ‘’who is that woman?’’ she asked. She looked at the lady who was carrying her nephew.

‘’Oh that’s a relation from home. She is assisting with the boy. The maid, Loveth, chose to leave after her madam left.

‘’You don’t have to go through this’’ Isioma whispered. ‘’My sister is more than happy to return’’

'‘’There is quite a lot going on at the moment so...’’

"Look at every one of you; this is sad. That child needs his mother and Ebube is in no position to do
that without a home and a job. Look at you, you
clearly need help Charles. you don't look too good...

"Erm...I feel good"

"Oh brother please! I didn’t plan to be here today but something happened that made me change my mind. My sister has become a shadow of her former self. You guys are suffering and this thing has gone on for far too long. if perhaps you sat and spoke about it, you will achieve a whole lot! Sometimes that's probably all you need - talk.

"Isi, I dunno"

"It’s been a month and I worry if this vacuum is left for long, something else would occupy
this space’’

"I thank you for your concern; truth be said, its not been easy but I need time to think this thing through’’

‘’My in-law, please find it in your heart to forgive yourwife. She is not perfect and neither are you. I’m not trying to say Ebube was right but something pushed her to it. If she had you like that, nothing
would have happened and you know what I mean''

''And that's you people don't understand; I can't give your sister what she wants''

''What happened to you guys? Where did it go wrong? Where did the crack happen? You people used to be so happy. I used to envy you guys but of course not in a bad way. And my mum, my mum would be heartbroken. She can't understand why this thing is taking so long. She plans to come and see you but she can't hear what really happened. She is old and frail. That stuff would kill her faster than anything else''

''If that is your concern, I will make up something to tell mama. I promise you''

''I shouldn’t be telling you this but do you know how my mum views Ebube? Ebube is like the most perfect child there ever was. I saw it while growing up and she continues to sing with it till date. And trust me, this is not about protecting Ebube but my mum. Where did it go wrong with you guys? Can you at least confide in me? If you ever felt anything for my sister, if you can see the tinniest bit of rainbow at the end of this dark tunnel…I see this
look in your eyes sometimes. It seems like you want
reconciliation then the next minute it's gone. If there is anything you think Ebube can do…''

Then for the first time, Charles opened up. He sighed deeply and began to speak in a sad tone.

However her eldest sister shocked her. It was
the same treatment for everyone, the same answering machine for all of them and the lame promises to call back in that hurried manner. Whenever Uche managed to pick anyone’s call, it was always the same excuse - work, work and more work.

Isioma’s story was equally uninspiring and now Ebube had joined the ranks. Mama was beginning to feel an evil spirit was involved in her daughters misfortune with men. And that was what played on Isioma’s mind as she prepared to leave her home that Saturday morning. She had a full day but all that was to change once she got dressed. She was going to drop him off at a friend's and the kid was already dressed. As a matter of fact, he was already seated in the living room watching TV ''where is your aunty?’’ Isioma asked.

‘’At the backyard’’

Isioma strolled to the back to inform Ebube they were leaving when something struck her. She watched from behind as Ebube continued scrubbing her clothes in a black basin.

Immediately she was filled with grief; it was grief like she could not describe. It started from the pit of her stomach and rose all the way to her throat. There was nothing wrong with a person washing her clothes, but seeing Ebube in that position (in her own yard) was something she never imagined.

The once great high flying lawyer was jobless, without her kids, without her home and the trappings that came with it. Already, Ebube was searching for a suitable accommodation and she spent most of her day trawling through job sites. It was clear to see she was making attempts at moving on with her life.

For Isioma this was the saddest part, that her sister would have thrown in the towel. She never thought Ebube would end up being a single parent. She wondered if Ebube could sink any lower but something told her it would end well for everyone.

She decided not to tell her anything again but Ebube had seen her already ‘’Isi, are you about to leave now?’’ Ebube asked. She was wiping her hands against a t-shirt and Isioma hurried out of the house because she could not stand the sight anymore.

Isioma dropped off her son at his friends then she went about her business but all the while, her mind was troubled. By 1pm, she called Charles and informed him she was coming over. As was his usual practice, Charles tried to dissuade her but she refused to take no for an answer. He told her he was away from home and he didn’t intend returning anytime soon. Isioma listened to him and once he was done, she insisted she was happy to wait for him. And wait she did, she waited inside her car until she began to sweat then at some point, she got out of the car and sat on her bonnet. When the bonnet became too hot, she moved to the short stair case and sat like someone who was waiting for a soup kitchen to open.

54

It had been a little over a month since the last time
Isioma and Ebube visited Charles. The sisters had continued to push for peace but Charles didn’t appear interested. In the meantime, the sisters
continued to lie to their mother about the circumstances of Ebube's moving out. Mama was quite elderly but she was hoping to make the trip to see her son-in-law at the end of the month.

Now that was where the trouble lay. Charles didn’t go on bad mouthing Ebube (at least not to her family members) but if you visited him and sought to know what transpired, he would not hesitate to give you the lowdown. And so as the end of month grew closer, everyone began grow weary.

For mama, a lot had gone on with her daughters and she didn’t want Ebube’s case to end up like her other children. Her first daughter, Uche, had been introduced to a man who lived abroad. After a whirlwind e-romance, the pair got married but no sooner had Uche settled into her new home before tragedy struck. Her husband was diagnosed with leukemia and in spite of the excellent medical care, he lost his fight with cancer.

Uche had no children before his death and ever since the unfortunate incident, she had remained on her own. She busied herself with her new career – nursing and when she felt mama was bothering her about getting married again, she withdrew. She became a recluse and practically cut off from her family back in Nigeria. It was particularly difficult for someone like Ebube who was close to her. Ebube believed Uche could grow cold with the world but not her.

fretfingers:


Lol... ofcourse not. I know that ma'am. But that isn't a factor not to judge her strategy or approach.

Yes her emotions are going haywire right now. But remember she dint do it immediately she discovered what Nat had done. So I can postulate that her emotions are quite stable compared to when she first heard.

Same goes for Nat. She wouldn't had called Charles and sold out Ebube d way she did (atleast not in this manner) if she had slept and woken up d next day.

My point is, ones anger could be constant in cases like this, but with days gone by, one would have a better plan for revenge.

OP nice piece. We just discussing. Am not tryna bring down ur morale... U digg?

Nah, you good.

For me (my personal opinion pls) I don't think she is an evil, conniving person. In this last chapter, she has allowed her anger get the better of her. Don't forget she has no clue Nat and Ken have made up. She probably believed they were still estranged.

Unfortunately it has backfired. Ken has chosen not to believe her 'lies' or he views her action as vengeful. I am uncertain which one he believes sef (yes oh, sometimes writers have no clue)

Is Ken playing dumb even though he know there is an element of truth in what Ebube has said? Abi has he chosen to blank Nat's past? Hmm, food for thought.

@fretfingers, does the inability to tell a convincing lie make one fo*olish?

You have raised a valid point though and here is my take on things; when I wrote about Ebube's chracter, I had in mind an 'everyday' woman. However Ebube has a secret, she has a thing for younger men but she manages to keep it in check until Charles drives her insane.

On a good day, she is the most mature of the girls, kind, loving et al she is the image of the perfect housewife but alas she aint so perfect.

''I don’t have but I thought you should know…''

''Know what? Know what this woman? I've been fighting hard to repair the crack in my home and you think I'd let you widen the crack some more? You must be out of your mind my dear. Listen, even if you tell me Nat is sliding down a pole on Allen
Avenue this minute, I don’t care. Even if you tell me
she is doing shaolin work in one hotel, I don’t bloody care! Even if you tell me she slept with all the directors of that company, I don’t give a rat's ass! Do you understand what I mean?''

''I'm sorry you feel that way''

''I'm so mad at you Ebube. Nat is calling your husband nearly every day and pleading for peace. The poor girl is even trying to get me involved and I planned to meet with your husband, man to man next week. Unfortunately I don’t know how I feel about that anymore. I see no reason why I should bother because you are seeking revenge rather than looking for how to repair your home and get back with Charles''

Ebube shrugged her shoulder but said nothing more. She took another sip from her drink and looked away ''what is wrong with you?'' Ken continued. ''What you've done today is so wrong. The difference between what you are doing and what Nat did is completely different''

''No it's not''

''Nat acted on the spur of the moment and she was wrong but she was not thinking. On the other hand, you have acted otherwise. You have done this in a cold and calculating manner. You sat here for about 30 minutes waiting for my arrival. You had time to think about what you were about to say but you didn’t change your mind. This is a cry for help Ebube. You need psychological intervention. You truly need help and I hope you get the help you require'' then Ken snatched his car key from the table and walked away.

''Everything I've said today is the truth. God sees my heart and…''

''Would you stop it please! The fact we are back together after all said and done speaks to the
tenacity of our relationship. I don’t think you realize
what Nat truly means to me. I may not get it right all the time but I know what that woman means to me. I told you I went to drop someone at the park and that was my father. That man wouldn’t be alive today save for God's grace and Nat's generosity. I'm not going to forget all that because you claim she did one thing two things while in school''

''It's not a claim Ken, it happened. I even know about that your dad's ailment. We all knew and we knew what Nat did to get the money for his surgery. She didn’t go to Warri as she
claimed. She was with a …''

''You are sinking further into the mud but you don’t realize it. Do you think I care about what happened donkey years ago with Nat? First off, I don’t believe a word you've just said and even if it's true, who cares? WHO CARES? I'm not innocent. I don’t have the cleanest record and so do you''

Then Ebube answered in a low voice yet
annoying voice ''I agree but I wasn't the aristo''

''This is not a comparison between you and my wife so I don’t care. READ MY LIPS, I DON’T CARE! And in the event that these lies were true, I'd rather she were an aristo than a lesbian!''

''I'm sorry you feel that way Ken''

The pair were quiet for some seconds while a burly man walked up to them and smiled ''is there any problem sir, ma?'' he asked.

''No!'' Ken spat out.

''Okay sir, but just to tell you to keep it down please''

''Sorry about that'' Ebubr replied. Then as the man walked off she yelled out to him ''thanks''

''Can you honestly call one man or woman my wife has been with since marriage?'' Ken continued. ''Give me the name of someone Nat has had an affair with post marriage. Give me a name now and leave the rest with me''

Ebube sighed deeply and continued ''I won't lie to spite her but I don't have any. Nevertheless …''

Then Ken yelled out in anger ''Ebube, give me a name now or forever hold your peace!''

Contd

I mean what is wrong with you? What is your motivation for this meeting today? I was right from the start. I was against this meeting but my wife advised me to come; she actually insisted that I come. I didn’t want to be here. I want nothing to do with you ladies issue. I wish the best for everyone but I don’t want to be caught in the middle''

''I understand'' Ebube replied.

Then Ken looked
at her calm face and began to laugh. It was almost
like she was not the one that had been doing the talking. It seemed like someone else had possessed
her body ''what is wrong with you?’’ he asked again.

''I can't believe you spent the last few minutes spewing all that trash. Do you think I care about stuff like that?'' then Ken began to laugh. Some
seconds later he stopped and continued ''and my pastor advised me of this same thing. No sooner would we make up before people would try to break us up again. Truly the devil does not like the peace that exists in a united family. He will seek for any
means to destroy the harmony between man and
wife and you've just allowed him use you as a willing tool''

''I'm sorry you think of me in that manner''

''I didn’t believe it would happen in such a blatant
manner but Pastor Tony was right after all''

''My intention is not break you guys up but I just feel
you need to know the truth. I was not even aware you guys are back together''

''What truth? Ebube, I'm sorry you are having problems in your home but don’t tell lies to create problems in mine. I'm indeed sorry I came for this sham of a meeting! It hurts me to say this but Barrister Ebube, you've got deep problems. I feel bad for you. I feel bad for your husband. I used to respect you but I'm shocked you would sit calmly and badmouth your friend, my wife in this sick manner''

53

Ken came into the meeting place in a hurry. His
strides were long and he looked like a hot mess ''I'm so sorry my sister'' he began. ''I came as soon as I could. I hope you have not waited for long''

''Not so long'' Ebube replied. "Let's say 30minutes tops"

''You would expect the traffic to have eased up a bit but it was not so. I had to drop a family member off at the park before making my way down''

''You're here, that’s the most import thing. Have a seat and relax''

''Let me just say right off that I'm sorry about what is going on. I even wanted to call you but… anyway Nat is truly sorry and I pray … as a matter of fact, we both pray that this situation gets resolved pretty soon. If there is anything you think I can personally do...''

''Thank you''

The pair had planned to meet at Ebube's invitation and she had been waiting in the last 35 minutes. They were at a popular fast food chain and Ebube was sipping on a can of coke ''would you like something to drink?'' Ebube asked.

''I'm afraid but I'm allergic to these their food. I'm sort of in a rush so what is this about?''

Then Ebube began to talk and Ken kept staring at her like she was an idol. It went on and on and he kept nodding like she was dishing out precious stuff. After she finished, he shook his head and smiled ''is that all?'' he asked.

''Unfortunately I know it's not what you expected to hear but…'' Ken nodded some more and looked into the distance with sad eyes. Ebube continued to watch him but she remained quiet for some seconds – nearly a minute.

Finally Ken cleared his throat and spoke in a small
voice ''why are you doing this today? I mean why now? All these things you claim happened long ago and you've known me since forever so why now?''

''I'm just trying to say Nat is not as innocent as she seems''

''That was not the question I asked Ebube. I mean
what is wrong with you? What is your motivation for
this meeting today?"





TBC

''Okay but you've been involved in the act with Belinda because Nat saw you guys at it that night and you admitted same to your husband''

''Yes''

''How long has this been going on? Boarding house?
University?''

''No, no, no just once''

''Really? The first and only time it happened and Nat just happened to walk in on you guys?''

''Okay twice or maybe thrice of which the first time it was not sex like sex if you know what I mean''

''Really?''

''Certainly not more than 3 or 4 times I swear to God my creator of which one was not technically sex so...''

Then Isioma nodded her head before giving her a
sound slap. Immediately Ebube staggered backwards then she held her cheek and yelled out in pain ''Jesus Christ! What was that for?''

''That was for lying to me just now. That was for lying to me about the true reason Charles sent you out. That was for lying to me these past few days while you sat pretty in my house. And finally that's for lying to Charles in the few last hours that it happened only once! What is wrong with you this woman? Ebube, what is the matter with you?''

''I'm sorry but he pushed me to it!'' Ebube cried out. It wasn’t clear if she was weeping because she was sorry or because Isioma had found out about her lies or because the slap was still stinging!

''I want you to pack your things and get out of my
house'' Isioma yelled.

''But I've nowhere else to go!'' Ebube cried. ''No one
will help me and I've got nowhere else to go''

''Then you better start speaking the truth. One more yeye lie from you and that’s me done with your matter. If you need my help you’ve got to drop the
fake attitude''

''I'm sorry''

''Argh! I've got a splitting headache over this issue
and it just got started. I've got to lie down before I faint'' then Isioma slammed the car door shut and walked away.

Once she was done she announced in a firm voice ''you are lying to me and I can't believe you would continue to do that. You took me all the way to Omole to beg on your behalf and you didn’t have the decency to tell me the truth? You failed to tell me what I was truly pleading for. Then we leave there and you still have the nerve to lie
like I'm silly? You are asking me *do what* like you
don’t know what this is about. You've got to be kidding me Ebube. You better start talking this
second!''

''Okay something happened but the truth is we were
kind of hugging and stuff. I'll admit we were not praying but Natasha blew it out of proportion
and Charles is running with that story''

''Really?''

''Yes''

''I'm the last person you should be lying to Ebube.
Look around you and tell me who you see''

Ebube looked around and faced her sister again ''I
don’t understand you'' she replied in a calm voice.

''Where are your best friends? Where is your sister
Uche dearest whom you would pick before me? Where are the people who have your back? I'm the only one in your camp at the moment. If you expect me to rack my brain with possible reasons why you could have done that then you've got to tell me
the truth. If you expect me to keep inter ceding on
your behalf, the least you can do is be honest with me''

''Please call Nat and ask her what she saw that night. Where is my phone? Please call her''

''Why should I call Nat when your husband told me
you admitted to the act and all the while you were looking at your laps? You couldn’t look him in
the face the entire time we were there. Why should I
call Nat when I can tell you are lying? When you lie, your eyes dart around and it's been happening ever since I started talking. You've always been a bad liar and you should know better than do that with me. Are you kidding me? Do I look like someone who would be blown away by your holier-than-thou attitude? I know you reach house so quit the presence kid sis''

''Okay''

''Are you a lesbian?''

''No!'' Ebube cried in a hurt tone.

"Are you like bi or something?"

"No! It was just curiosity and because of the no sex thing. I don't have a single gay bone in my body"

About an hour later, the pair slowly made their way
out of the house. Nothing had changed and Charles continued to insist the marriage was over.
He said he didn’t want Ebube anywhere around him.
He advised her to commence divorce proceedings because he was already seeking advise from a lawyer. He also said he was willing to share custody of their children as soon as Ebube found a place of her own. He kept asking her to pack whatever
she felt was hers and Ebube threw her face away as he said that. She wanted reconcilation but somehow, it was slipping out of her grasp.

It was a fruitless visit but for Isioma, something else was bothering her. As she walked towards Ebube's car, she began to hum a tune. They drove home
in complete silence and every attempt by Ebube to
say something ended in a one liner from Isioma. Once they got to her house, Ebube hurried out of the car but Isioma called her back and finally spoke
''what was all that about?''

''It’s a mess I know''

''I didn’t ask if it was a mess or not. Did you really do that?''

''Do what?''

''What is wrong with you? Didn't we both hear your
husband speak? Like did you shag Belinda?''

''No! For God sake no! I'm not quite sure what Natasha saw but…''

''You are lying to me dear sister'' then Isioma began
to laugh in a strange way. This kind of laughter spoke volumes, it was more like a you’ve got to
be kidding me kind of laughter.

***
Later that weekend, Isioma visited Charles as she had intended. For reasons best known to Ebube, she decided not to go but Isioma insisted. The sisters argued about it all morning, but finally Isioma won the battle. She felt it would be best if Ebube tagged along ''you'll probably end up hugging him sef'' she said. ''Go and wear dress so we can go.
We must put the devil to shame in this matter. The
earlier we wrap this thing up the better for everyone. The more you stay outside your home, the more dangerous it becomes''

Of course Isioma had no idea of what had truly happened in her sister's home. She had been made to believe Charles was suffering from mid-life crises
coupled with an offensive statement Ebube made concerning his stance on no sex.

And so the pair went off. As they came down from
the car, Ebube began to fret but Isioma ignored her. They made their way to the house and sat down. Charles sat at the farthest end of the living room and then the talk began. Thankfully the children and
maid were away. Initially Charles didn’t want to say a word, but when Isioma began to speak, he laughed and opened up to her. Then Isioma's face
dropped, her well rehearsed lines flew out of her head but she continued to nod her head. She had never felt so fo*olish in her entire life but she took it on the chin.

"Who knows the heart of man? They are all the same. All lizards lie on their stomach so how can you tell the one with a belly ache?"

"True that. I of all people should know that especially with Mr Singapore. It appears Charles is under a strange influence. I was telling him, shebi you're treating my sister like this cos she is out of a job and he told me in a calm voice, let her come and take whatever she feels I owe her plus we are going for joint custody of the kids. I must confess, I weak that yesterday"

"Isi, it is that sad. He is not himself again"

"I have not spoken to him again but we will visit him this weekend. It is well. I believe this will blow over soon. In the meantime, please feel free to
call here your home. I'm hardly at home anyway and Dozie is a big boy now. He won't disturb you like before. By the way how are my children?''

Then Ebube began to cry afresh ''I've not seen them
in like a week now'' she managed to splutter.

''It's okay stop crying'' Isioma replied in an impatient voice, ''you will frighten Dozie now'' She looked around the living room and cleared her
throat ''Dozie, are you not through with that assignment?''

''Nearly there mum''

''Hurry up now and go inside. I don’t want to have to
use cold water to wake you up tomorrow'' Almost immediately, Dozie got up with his big books.
He bade them farewell and smiled at his aunty. Ebube smiled back and him and burst into full blown tears once he'd gone inside ''crying would not help you now'' Isioma snapped.

''I can't help it''

''The one thing paining me is the fact you quit that your job, that's part of why you are so helpless. You didn't seek my advice if not I would have told you to manage it until you find another one. Look at the mess now, at least if you were not so dependent on Charles, you won't be this uncertain. That's why I always advice women not to fold hand and be looking at husband - have a backup plan. See nah, anyway you should intensify your prayers instead, the devil is trying to fool himself again but he has failed''

''Amen'' Ebube replied then she smiled at Isioma
wanly.

ncChigo:
Kudos Fantasyisland

I appreciate bros...

52

Ebube was in a house she had not been to in a long
time. Isioma was sitting on her couch while your son was doing his home work on the dining table.
Isioma lived in a 2 bedroom flat at Maryland. The
years had gone by but nothing had changed with her. She was still as annoying as ever with a son
to show for her effort. She was also successful at her business venture.

She ran her crèche/nursery school and she had only just expanded into primary section as well.
Her personal life was not as rich though. She was a
single mother who had refused to forge another meaningful relationship after the breakdown of her
relationship with her baby daddy. No one was quite sure how it happened but one minute, she was talking marriage then it slowed down once she
announced she was pregnant.

Unfortunately the marriage plans never picked up again due to accusation and counter accusation
from both parties. The last Ebube heard, the man had gone to Singapore (or was it Malaysia) on business and he refused to come back.

And so Isioma became a single mother but Ebube always felt it may have ended that way anyway. It was her belief that Isioma could not remain humble enough under a man’s house. She was too impatient, rash and generally incapable of being loved. Suddenly Isioma clapped her hands together and hissed ''is that why he asked you to leave?'' she
repeated. ''For only that small thing? But you sef why did you say that?''

"Why won't I be angry? A sexless marrage for how
long? Am I not a human being?"

"I get your point but I feel there is more to this than
meets the eye. His reaction is too rash. Are you sure this is all?"

"I beg leave matter for Mattias" Ebube replied. They were speaking in their local dialect because of her young son ''is there another woman?'' Isioma continued.

''I don’t know oh!''

''Are you sure there is nothing more to this like say a mistress?''

''I'm just tired oh!''

''It is usually strange women that cause men to act
this way but I never quite saw your husband as such
a man"

''I know but I'm without an excuse…''

''Listen Ebube, man up a bit! Don't forget you are a
flipping lawyer! Chop some liver nah and trust it will work out fine. Let me also add that even if the friendship thing doesn't work with me, make peace
with Nat''

''I don’t know about that. Nat has cut me so deep and it would take the world to forgive her. Time would literally stand still for me to be able to forgive her''

''I know but try''

''I can't promise anything but I'll always cherish the
memories we had as friends. I'll think about our time at the university but I wouldn’t bother with life after we graduated. We became too serious afterwards; looking for jobs, birthing our kids and trying to keep those men happy. Marriage kind
of fu**cked things up you know''

''Well all my married friends say that but they'll give
anything to remain married to the same man. Isn't it ironic?''

''No answer Bel. I guess it's something we'll never
fully understand. I don’t quite get it myself but I'll pick Charles again and again till eternity. Other than this sex ish, he's been a good man''

''Good for you; this is goodbye then''

''Yeah, I leave for Isioma's first thing tomorrow''

‘’i want to hug you but I don't know what's appropriate anymore"

"Oh for Pete's sake, don't be silly!" Then Ebube
walked in her direction and they hugged like they had always done. However Ebube could feel the slight stiffness in her shoulders "its okay" she
whispered into her ear then she slapped her back
and smiled at her.

"Adios chic’’ Belinda whispered then she nodded at
her and walked out of the room.

Immediately, Ebube began to pack and as she did tears ran down her eyes. She was weeping for so many things but one of them was the demise of her friendship with Belinda. She just knew it; something told her she wouldn't be seeing the friend she called Bel for a long long time to come.




TBC

"That you are indeed a lesbian but you were just
showing me stuff - finish. I told him Nat got the wrong idea"

"Oh Ebube, you've always been a bad liar. You should have denied it point blank sef. You told me you did"

"I lied a bit. You don't want to know the state of my mind on that day"

Belinda stared into the distance and shook her head
in pity then she continued "its okay, it'll be alright though. I know, I have a good feeling this one would pass. It may take a while but the sun will shine again. Just try not to lose your head until that
happens''

Then Ebube smiled but almost immediately the smile was overtaken by worry ''thanks Bel'' she whispered. ''All you've ever done was try to help in
your own weird way and I was dumb to allow you''

''Ouch!''

''You weren’t right all the time but at least you tried
and you never wrote me off. You are right about the future of our friendship. I can't tell how it will affect Nat but you understand if I were to make peace with my husband, I may not see you again''

''It's understandable chic; it’s the price we will pay for our stupidity and that’s the part I’ve got to live with''

''I mean I'm not quite sure in what direction things
would go with the three of us but however it ends, I'll always respect you''

''Aww, now she's gonna to make me cry''

''I'm serious Belinda - quit joking. I may not call and
we'll probably not chat as before but I'll always wish you well. When you think of me, think of the good
times. Think of life as we knew it in secondary school. How we ran into the bush to avoid those wicked seniors and punishment. How we used to form sickness on labour day or sanitation day. How we cooked concoction rice and made garri cake. How we chased Mrs Madueke's fowl and killed it''

''May God forgive us and she was my guardian oh!
We've always been naughty''

''All of us''

''I did my penance though concerning Mrs Madueke's fowl. During graduation, my parents asked what I thought would be a good present for her and I said a chicken. Not any chicken but a broiler so you see, I'm not so bad''

''I agree. I of all people know that''

Belinda laughed but she sobered up real fast and
continued ''I agree, you are a good person on the inside too and I hope Charles finds it in his
heart to forgive. He's got to admit he's not been fair
to you too. He's just as guilty if not worse so don't be too hard on yourself. Most of us will act crazy if pushed to the wall like that''

''Mehn, I'm so mad at Nat. I'm so pissed I can rip her head in half!''

''I beg oh; it's not that serious''

''It is very serious when your husband kicks you out
and you've got no job plus you've not seen your kids in nearly a week!''

''I'm sorry. I feel so bad about this thing. I feel responsible for what has happened to you''

''Just forget it''

''I guess Nat is trying to right her wrong. She called
me much earlier in the day. She sounded really apologetic for her role in the fracas. I just
sha free the chic; no need carrying baggage around - I've got enough already''

''You can forgive her if you like, you have nothing to
lose anyway''

''And that’s where you are making a huge mistake.
I've lost my friends and that fills me with sadness. I dunno but I can just feel it in my heart. I don’t know if we can ever have what we once shared. I mean the three of us''

''Hmm''

''There has been so much drama, secrets and revelation. I don’t know if we can all look at ourselves again and move on like it's alright''

''I'm not even thinking about that for now. I just want to repay Nat in her own coin''

''How?''

''Like give Ken a call too and…''

''To what end? Is that your immediate problem? How is that going to help repair your family situation? Think about it for a minute and you'll
realize how low that sounded''

''I know but I just feel so angry and sad at the same
time''

''If I were you, I'll curry favour with Nat and get her to call Charles and downplay the whole thing or better still say its a lie".

"I can't do the its a lie thing. Charles believes it already and perhaps I implicated myself just a little bit"

"Fu*ck sake Ebube! What did you really tell him? Everything?"

"I'm truly sorry"

"No matter how broken I was, I would never push you before an incoming train. I wouldn't do it to you or to Belinda - go chew on that''

''What more can I say but sorry''

''Nat, every marriage is not perfect and you of all
people should know that. Not every man will act like Blossom's husband and continue with marriage like nothing happened. Charles is one of such men''

''I had no idea''

''Same way you had no idea we have been living like
flatmates for a little over a year. Oh but I'm pretty sure I mentioned it to you on that day. Perhaps you
didn’t listen because you were absolved with your
own marital woes! How would you have known my marriage was practically hanging off a tree? It's
been hanging precariously and you just had to push
it didn’t you?''

''It was not done on purpose''

''I'll tell you what you did and it's another law lesson
for you. Do you know what your conduct reminds me of?''

''No''

''It reminds me of the egg shell rule, meaning you
take your victim as you see him. You don’t know what is wrong with that man so if you playfully shove him aside and he hits his head on the
pavement and dies, that’s on your head! So you see, if my marriage packs up because of you, it's on your
head. My marital problem will forever rest on your fu**cking head! Ignorance is not an excuse''

''Are you done?''

''No, go f*uck yourself!''

''Okay but why don’t I just f*uck Ken instead?''

''Are you still on the phone, get lost bi*tch!'' then
Ebube cut the call and flung her phone aside.

''Ouch! That didn’t go too well'' Belinda replied.

Ebube turned around in shock and saw her smiling. She had no idea Belinda had walked in quietly while she was on the call.

''I'm sorry I didn’t mean to eavesdrop" Belinda
replied, " but even if I stayed in the living room, I could still hear you loud and clear. You were practically raising the roof with the sound of your voice''

Ebube hissed in anger and greeted lightly ''sup chic? When did you come?''

''I entered not too long ago''

''Welcome, how was work today?''

Belinda ignored her question and continued ''I didn’t know you had all that fire in you. I've never heard you curse like that''

''Ebube, I didn’t do it on purpose. I've been feeling
bad ever since. I can't tell you how sorry I am. I've spoken to Charles and I intend to speak to him again on this issue. As a matter of fact, I call him everyday. I told him I probably didn't get the right picture. I told him...''

''Oh you better dear. You better tell him it was a lie or better downplay it as much as you can. You better undo what you'd done because I would never forgive you if my marriage crashes''

''I'm sorry, I didn’t know it would come to this''

''Really? How did you think it was going to end? Admit it, admit you want everyone to have a broken home like yours. Just admit it!''

''I'm sorry''

''Your sorry is coming too late. You should have been in control of your emotions. Perhaps you should have covered for me the way I always covered for you. Besides what did you think was going on there on that night?"

"I dunno..."

"Yes, you don't know cos it was nothing! Besides, all
those times you did runs and Ken called, I had your back. All those times you said church and you were with Chief, I had your back. But what did you do to me? The only time I slipped up, you pushed my face in the mud!''

''You know that’s not completely true Ebube. When
you were double dating, I covered for you too. I've always had your back but the circumstance on that
night was totally different. You guys were supposed
to be my best friends and I walked in on that. Put yourself in my shoes for once''

''I've put myself into your dirty shoes a thousand times and each time I would have walked out without ratting on you. You didn't even wait to
hear either of us out for pete's sake! Who does that? Only a child trowing a tantrum"

51

The following evening, Ebube's phone beeped. She
read the message and sniggered quietly. She had a thousand things to say but she decided on a small but powerful response: if you are truly sorry
then give me a call.

Almost immediately, her phone began to ring and
she quickly picked the call before Nat had a change of heart ''hello it's me'' Nat whispered.

''Of course I know it's you; I still have your number''

''I'm so sorry''

''You are a chicken! Fancy sending me a text and
apologising. Why don’t you call me so you can feel my wrath?''

''I would be mad if I were you too but…''

''How could you? It was shocking I agree but it was
not the worst thing in the world Nat''

''I'm sorry, I wasn't thinking. I was in shock and I just… I just…''

''You just had to call Charles, didn’t you? Nat, I know
things about you. I know stuff that I've never told a soul. If you told me certain things and begged me not to tell Belinda, I would do it. I would protect you like that. I would shield you with my last drop of blood but the only time I needed you... God dey sha''

''I'm sorry''

''Nat, in case you've forgotten, I and Belinda saw you do things but no one ever sang out to Ken''

Kajiang02:


How does she get them into trouble. It's understandable she had a thing for Blossom, in this case, Ebube brought herself to it.

Fantasy, you need to paint the picture in a good light here, else it kills moral reasoning especially for women suffering in silence due to husband's i'll treatment and not fulfilling his "manly" roles.

You shouldn't totally portray Ebube as a complete coward in this case, even as a Lawyer. The man failed in his duties over the years, and after effect is putting his home in ruins.
Ebube needs to fight back, for peace in her home or full custody of the Kids. As well as denying fully, ever indulging in such acts, if push gets to shove. Afterall, na mere say from Nat, which she (Nat) could turn around to be a same old good sister and stand by her friend.

I totally understand where you're coming from but you must understand everyone has an opinion on certain characters and what they'll like to happen. A storyteller can't please everyone. So while I understand and appreciate your view, I think you need to trust a writer's instinct a little more. With the above quote, I kinda get the feeling you'd expect me to proceed in a certain light...lol...I'm sorry I can't.

You may not like how I'm addressing an issue or how I'll eventually deal with it but that's okay. I don't like every book I read. Let's agree to disagree on this one.