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Chapter 5


Alex immediately sprang into action, bringing Bella close and hugging her. “Hush now,” he consoled her. Alex is not much of a hugger, but he had no other way to console the lady before him. They were standing at the threshold of the door, so the door was left open. Both of them oblivious of the outside world. After what seemed like eternity, Bella stopped crying and took hold of herself.
“Sorry for showing you such an embarrassing side of me,” she smiled sheepishly before moving back. Her tear-stained gaze fell on Alex's suit, now marked by the aftermath of her emotional outpour. "Look at the mess I made.” She pouted, and that is the cutest thing Alex has ever seen.

"Don't worry; it will easily wash off," Alex reassured her, guiding her inside. Recognizing her need to sit and converse, he led her inside.
“Tell me, what is wrong?” Alex's face was etched with worry. Bella had the same gloomy face she had the first day they met, and the sadness in her eyes was eating him up.

“Don’t worry about it; I was just being silly.” She managed a smile.

Alex is used to people answering him the moment he asks a question, so it irked him off to ask twice.

“I don’t know what the problem is, but I assure you, whatever it is, I am greater.” He hadn’t meant to brag, but he needed to make Bella know he can help her overcome her problem.

Bella scoffed and shook her head as if what she just heard is the funniest thing she has heard all day. “Why didn’t you call me since you left?” she frowned, and Alex couldn’t help but feel guilty.

“I lost my phone before I got home.” He admitted. He would have visited on Sunday, but he wasn’t sure if Bella would be around. Waiting for Monday was agonizing for him.
Bella gasped, her concern evident. "Were you robbed?" she asked, afraid that Alex was the victim of the neighborhood attack.
"No, I lost it out of carelessness," he admitted, making Bella to visibly relax.
"You should be more careful next time. This period is not the time to lose things and spend money to buy a new one."
"Sure Mama, I will keep your words to heart," Alex jested, earning a playful eye roll from Bella. Shifting the focus, he asked, "Enough about me, what has cast this gloom over you?" Bella hesitated, prompting Alex to continue, "I can't deny my charm, but it's never enough to make a lady cry," he teased, attempting to lighten the mood.
Thinking about how Alex might be able to help her get a job, maybe they have a vacancy where he works. “I kind of lost my job.” She finally decided to open up.

“Kind of?”

“Yes, our school is under new management, so they are letting go of everyone with only an NCE certificate. I happen to be one of those people.” She sighed before she continued. “So, after this term is over, our services would no longer be needed.” Few tears escaped her eyes, but before they could reach her cheeks, she wiped them.

“How long until the term ends?”

“Just two weeks.”

“It's enough time to get a new job.”

Bella looked quizzically at Alex. “You just spoke like someone that is not in Nigeria. Don’t you know how hard it is to get a job in Nigeria, especially for someone with such a low certificate?”

Alex felt bad for not being sensible enough. It is normal for him since he was born with a golden spoon, and he has never looked for anything in his life.

“Well, can I have your resume? I might be able to help you out.”

Bella’s eyes lit up. “Really?” Alex smiled and nodded. “Here it is.” She quickly brought it out of her bag and handed it to Alex.

Seeing a smile back in her eyes made Alex happy, so he sat back to go through the resume. “Impressive,” he muttered. According to her resume, she has been teaching for nearly ten years, and she has worked as a teacher for more than two schools. She graduated from college and acquired her NCE fifteen years ago. Alex couldn’t resist asking her age.

“How old are you?” Though it was considered disrespectful to ask a lady her age, Alex couldn’t resist, and Bella thinking that Alex was asking for job purposes had to answer.

“I would be 35 by next month.” Alex's eyes widened, for never has he expected that the pretty lady before him is five years older than him. “Alex? Are you alright?” Bella called his attention back.

Alex surprised by her youthfulness remarked. “Sorry, I was just surprised. You just look so young I thought you wouldn’t be a day over 30.”

Bella snickered. “You must be blind. A day over 30? Haven’t you seen all these fats and stretch marks?” She chuckled, dismissing the complement with a playful shake of her head.

With how she dismissed Alex's complement, it was clear to Alex that she doesn’t think too highly of herself. Alex's curiosity was getting stronger; he wanted to know the kind of life she has been living, if she was ever married, or currently dating. Alex knows he will never be at peace unless his curiosity is satisfied. There is only one way to satisfy his curiosity, and that is to keep her close to him. This prompted him to make her an unexpected offer.

“Would you be able to work as a personal assistant?”

Bella doesn’t have experience as a personal assistant, but at the moment she would be willing to work as anything that wouldn’t conflict with her creed, provided it can pay her bills.

“Yes, do I have a choice?” she smiled.

“Alright, I would have to take your number again.”

Just as Bella was about to speak, the door flew open and someone stepped in. Alex instantly recognized the intruder as one of the goons that attacked him. The intruder instantly recognized Alex too, and he froze.

Bella started saying a silent prayer hoping her younger brother wouldn’t embarrass her in front of her visitor. Alex subtly stood in front of Bella in a protective manner while he kept his eyes on the intruder. Alex is aware the intruder would not attack since he knows the outcome; he is more concerned to know why he entered the house and Bella is not alarmed.

“Alex, say hello to my brother Emeka.” Bella spoke from behind Alex, so she didn’t see the shock in Alex’s face.

“Brother?”

“Next time, follow your boyfriend to a hotel or his house. Don’t come and inconvenience us.” Emeka spoke rudely before entering inside and leaving the two.

Bella felt shy from her brother's statement, so she could no longer look at Alex when he turns to look at her. “Forgive my brother’s rudeness.”

“You don’t need to apologize.”

“I hope you don’t get angry, but can we talk some other time?” Bella didn’t mean to send Alex away, but she can’t say what her brother would do, so it was better to send Alex away.

“Alright, we would speak later.”

She escorted Alex to the door and bid him farewell. As Alex came downstairs, he saw another young man entering the compound, and he has a striking resemblance to Emeka, but he is younger.

“You must be Bella’s brother.”

“Yes.” This one spoke politely.

“Do take care of her.” Alex stated before leaving.

Alex got home and went through the resume again and saw Bella’s contact info. Without any delay, Alex pulled out his phone and called Bella.

“Hello?” her voice came through.

“Hi Bella, it is Alex.”

“How are you? Are you home yet?”

“Have anyone ever told you that you’re filled with motherly love?”

Bella giggled. “Is it bad?”

“No Mama, it is not.” Though he spoke of motherly love, there is nothing motherly in the manner he calls her Mama.

“I am sure you don’t call your mom with such a seductive voice.”

Alex gasped in a playful manner. “Are you flirting with me?”

Bella’s laughter filled his ears, and he knew that it's something he can get addicted to if he wasn’t careful.

“An old lady like me wouldn’t dare.”

“Haven’t you heard, the older the berry, the sweeter the juice.” Alex knew he is treading on a very dangerous ground, but he didn’t care.

“It's darker the berry, my young student.”

“Yes, Mama.” Alex chuckled. Knowing he might get carried away, he decided to stop and say the reason he actually called. “So, I have gotten you the job; you would be called for an interview tomorrow.” Alex said, but he got no reply, the only thing he got was silence. “Hello?”

“Sorry, I just couldn’t believe my ears.” Alex imagined Bella’s face brighten up with happiness. Alex can get her any job as easy as snapping his finger, but he opted to make her his personal assistant.

“You should prepare for the interview tomorrow unless you would like to schedule it another day.” Alex can't believe he is the one nervous.

“Yes, I can make it. We are just doing a revision in school since the exam is starting next week. I can ask Abigail to fill in for me. My salary just arrived this evening, so I don’t think there is any need to continue going to the school.” She would miss her students, and she would certainly go to say her goodbyes, but she can’t miss the opportunity Alex just gave her because of sentimentality.

“Alright, I will send the address of the company.”

“Thank you so much.”

“Don’t sweat it; I will be seeing you tomorrow.” Alex hung up and let out a deep breath. “Now time to prepare an office for her.”


To Grab your copy, click on the link below.

https://selar.com/z67056

Chapter 4


Ola stood just a few meters away, distant enough not to raise the goons' suspicion but close enough to witness the unfolding drama. They brandished a weapon at his boss, yet Ola made no move to intervene or call for help. He understood that, this time, the tables were turned, and the goons were the ones in trouble.

Alex, unfazed, retrieved his phone from his pocket, breaking the tension. "You know, on any other day, I might have handed you this phone and called it a day. But today is special, and someone important is waiting for my call."

The goons exchanged uncertain glances, seemingly baffled by Alex's nonchalant demeanor. "Returning tomorrow to ask for it back would be embarrassing," Alex added with a shrug, showing no fear in the face of danger. His indifference surprised the goons.

"Give us the phone," one of them demanded as they advanced. A stroke of luck aided Alex , the streetlight above them flickered, creating a momentary distraction.

"Like a flickering light in the darkness, hope remains steadfast, casting its glow even in the dimmest corners of our lives," Alex remarked, taking a deep breath.

The dimly lit alley seemed to close in around Alex as the three goons advanced, their intentions clear. The flickering streetlight cast eerie shadows, intensifying the tension. However, Alex stood his ground, a resolute determination flashing in his eyes.

As the one with the gun made a menacing move forward, catching the glint of metal in the dim light, Alex's instincts kicked in. Swiftly dodging to the side, he narrowly avoided the threatening advance, turning the uneven pavement to his advantage. The sudden movement made him drop his phone intentionally, he needed to be unhindered to face three assailants.

The second goon lunged at him, fists clenched. Alex, experienced in art of combat, skillfully evaded the attack with a calculated sidestep. A counter jab to the midsection left the second goon winded, gasping for air.

Meanwhile, the one with the gun sought to take advantage of the chaos, aiming for a strike from behind. Alex's acute awareness thwarted the ambush a swift turn, and he disarmed the gunman, the weapon clattering to the ground.

Now armed, Alex faced the goons. The tide had turned. The disarmed goon eyed Alex with fear, and the third, still recovering from the earlier blow, hesitated. The trio, once menacing, found themselves at the mercy of the unexpected turn of events.

Alex, calm and collected, spoke with authority, "Walk away, and consider this a lesson." The once menacing figures, now demoralized, chose to leave over further confrontation. In a hurried retreat, they fled into the shadows, leaving Alex alone in the darkened alley, holding the discarded weapon.

“You still have it, sir,” Ola remarked, approaching. Having followed Alex to his boxing training multiple times, Ola knew Alex possessed the strength of an amateur boxer or MMA fighter.

Ignoring Ola, Alex searched for his phone. “What are you looking for?” Ola inquired.

“My phone.” The worry etched on Alex’s face surprised Ola. Alex wasn’t one to fuss over a lost phone; he could easily replace it and retrieve his contacts. As Alex searched, Ola recalled seeing something kicked into the gutter during the scuffle. It wasn’t intentional, but the assailants would probably be pleased.

“Boss, it was kicked into the gutter while you were fighting them,” Ola informed him. Approaching the gutter, he hoped to retrieve it, but upon closer inspection, realized it was impossible. The gutter was filled with toxic liquid waste, typical of a dirty Nigerian drainage system. Alex came closer, confirming it was impossible to retrieve.

“Damn,” he cursed before glancing in the direction of Bella’s apartment. He reprimanded himself for pulling out the phone from his pocket in the first place. Contemplating returning to retrieve the number, he decided against it. She would worry more if he returned, informing her that he had been attacked. Knowing her, she might insist he sleep over at the said John's place. He exhaled and instructed Ola to drive him home.

Bella anxiously awaited Alex's call, growing increasingly worried as the night progressed. She woke up twice, only to find no missed calls or messages. By the time she returned from church the next day, her heart felt heavy from excessive worrying.

“Why do you keep staring at your phone?” Abigail, Bella’s friend and fellow teacher, inquired. They spent Sundays together, alternating between Bella’s house and Abigail’s.

“Am I?” Bella feigned innocence.

“Yes, you've been staring at your phone since this morning. Even in church, you didn’t pay attention to the sermon.”

“Well,” Bella had no excuse, but she didn’t want to reveal anything to her friend. Changing the topic, she asked, “What has the school decided?”

“The decision hasn’t been made, but it’s not looking good,” Abigail replied. “I think it’s best to start looking for a new job.”

“I’ve submitted several resumes, but none have called me back.” The school where they currently taught was undergoing changes due to new ownership. Teachers with only NCE certificates were deemed unqualified and would be let go. Bella, with only NCE, was among those at risk. Abigail, with higher qualifications, wasn’t concerned for herself but her friend. Abigail started working later than Bella, but because of her qualifications, she is at a higher position. Though Abigail being younger and Bella’s superior has always take Bella as her elder sister.

“I'll help you from my side too.”

Bella understood the difficulty of securing a good job in Nigeria, especially with her certificate. Landing her current job had already been a miracle, and she wasn’t confident lightning would strike twice.

“I’ve been looking around the neighborhood to see what I can start. I noticed there's no fruit store, so it seems like a lucrative business to begin.”

“Yes, it’s good you’re exploring other alternatives,” Abigail replied, trying not to discourage her friend. However, starting a fruit store wasn’t something Bella would be enthusiastic about.

Bella and Abigail spent the day discussing the events in their lives. Abigail dominated the conversation since Bella wasn’t much of a talker. The day passed uneventfully, and Alex never called.

Bella returned from school with grim news, the school board had officially announced that their services would no longer be needed after the current term. With no guarantee of job offers from the multiple places she’d applied, Bella faced a single option: opening a fruit store. The rent was due, and she lacked the funds. Amidst these crises, her worry for Alex's safety consumed her. Learning that someone had been attacked in their neighborhood last Saturday night heightened her anxiety. Weary, she sank into the balcony chair, feeling tired more emotionally than physically. She lost track of time, only stirring when a knock echoed at the door.

“I’m coming,” she managed to stand up and opened the door. There stood Alex, looking like an Adonis.

“For someone living in a dangerous neighborhood, do you think it's wise to open the door without knowing who's there?” Alex asked, wearing a heartwarming smile.

Seeing Alex triggered an unexpected flood of emotions, and for reasons she couldn't comprehend, Bella couldn’t hold back her tears. Alex's eyes widened, surprised, for never has he been able to make a lady cry by his mere presence.





AN: Drop some comment if you're enjoying it

Chapter 3

Just like Alex promised, he returned the book on the third day. It is Saturday, and Alex doesn’t usually go to work on weekends, using the time to relax and engage in whatever catches his interest at the moment. Today, he found the novel engaging, so he made sure to finish it just in time to return it. Alex spent a lot of hours trying to choose the perfect outfit for the occasion. He settled for a sky-blue shirt and dark blue trousers. It was casual wear, but Alex's impressive physique made it look like he was dressed to kill. It was twenty minutes past six in the evening, and Alex stood at the door. While approaching, Alex didn't see Bella on the balcony, making him a bit nervous. He usually drives past this route by this time, and Bella is always seated at the balcony reading. The fact that she wasn't there today suggested she might not be around. Not wanting to delay any further, Alex knocked on the door. He knocked three times before he heard her voice responding.

"Hold on, I am coming."
Alex's lips curved into a smile without him realizing. He waited until the door swung open, revealing the very beautiful Bella. She smiled, mirroring Alex's expression. She was wiping her hands with a towel, and sweat rolled down her neck.
"I was beginning to think you wouldn’t come." She wiped off the beads of sweat on her forehead using the back of her hand.
"I am not the type to break a promise."
"Come on in." Bella invited him in. "Please have a seat." She offered him the same chair she always sat on whenever she was on the balcony. It was just an old plastic chair, something Alex would never usually sit on. But for some reason, he felt honored sitting on this one.

"Thank you." He sat down and took a deep breath, relishing the moment.

"Give me a moment, I will be back." She went inside and returned about two minutes later. Just as she emerged, Alex's nose picked up a delicious smell.

"You must be cooking something delicious."

"Yes," she replied with a chuckle. "I'm fixing myself spaghetti."

"It must be delicious since it is making my stomach growl." Though it was true, Alex never intended to say it out loud. He inwardly facepalmed, realizing he appeared like someone with an insatiable appetite.

"It would be done soon, I would be honored to have you taste my food. I should warn you, it's not as tasty as it smells." She let out a sheepish laugh.

"I would be the judge of that." Alex started to wonder how she was so welcoming to strangers. It occurred to him that she didn’t bother to ask who was at the door before opening it. She did it on the first day, and did it today also, now she was offering to feed him.

It took less than three minutes for Bella to finish her cooking and come out to ask Alex where he would like to eat.

"Would you prefer it out here or inside?"

Alex looked ahead, facing the busy street. He knew no one would care if he ate on the open balcony, but he didn’t like the idea of eating outside.

"Where would you eat?" He asked instead.

The question took Bella by surprise; she hesitated before speaking. "I have never eaten outside, unless you are counting snacks."

"Then if you don’t mind, I would like to eat in the same place you do."

"That would be inside." For the first time since she met Alex, Bella felt nervous.

"Lead the way, then." Alex said with a smile before standing up to follow Bella inside.

Bella couldn't remember the last time she brought a man inside the house. She felt glad that none of her siblings were in right now; if not, there would be no telling what would happen.

Alex looked around, and the sitting room exuded a modest charm, adorned with furnishings that embodied comfort without extravagance. A sturdy dining table, its surface gleaming beneath the soft glow of a pendant light, claimed a corner near the entrance. The chairs surrounding it, though not opulent, were functional and neatly arranged, bearing witness to many shared meals and family gatherings.

Opposite the dining area, the focal point of the room emerged in the form of a television set. It perched atop a simple wooden stand, modest in size but emanating a warm familiarity. The well-worn remote control, lying on an adjacent coffee table, hinted at countless evenings spent in the company of televised stories and family laughter. Alex felt jealous of this lifestyle, as it was something he never had.

The walls, painted in a soothing neutral hue, played host to an assortment of family photographs. Framed memories captured in candid moments adorned the space. Alex wanted to go closer to see the photographs clearly, but on second thought, he decided not to. He felt his host wouldn’t be pleased with him overstepping. Instead, he continued to look around the sitting room. A plush sofa, worn but still inviting, dominated the center of the room. Its cushions bore the imprint of countless sittings, the fabric telling tales of shared joys and sorrows. An assortment of throw pillows, strategically placed, added a touch of color and comfort. A threadbare rug sprawled beneath the coffee table, its intricate patterns telling a story of thrift and careful preservation. The room exuded a lived-in coziness, a sanctuary where the warmth of familial bonds far surpassed the material simplicity of the furnishings. As evening light filtered through modest curtains, casting a gentle glow, the room transformed into a haven of shared stories, hearty meals, and the simple pleasures that defined the essence of a second-class home.

"What a warm home you have."

"Thank you. You can wait at the dining table while I dish out the food." She offered, and Alex nodded before going to sit at the dining table.

It didn’t take long for the two to start eating. Bella couldn’t remember the last time a total stranger ate her food. She was confident in her cooking skills, but not receiving any comment from Alex made her begin to doubt her skills. The two ate in awkward silence until Alex decided to break it.

"The novel was great." Alex realized he was the stranger intruding, so it fell on him to keep the conversation.

"You think so?" Bella's face instantly lit up.

"Yes, the author did a great job. He created a very nice obstacle to make the novel interesting."

"Many times while reading, he kept me on the edge. When I thought the wife had died, I was ready to stop reading. I couldn’t accept that someone can suffer so much and not enjoy the fruit of her labor."

"I am of the same opinion." She scoffed before shrugging her shoulder. "Though sometimes reality is different. Sometimes we suffer and never get rewarded." The sadness in her eyes could not be masked, and it made Alex want to draw her close and comfort her.

She took a deep breath and gathered herself, knowing it would be embarrassing if she started bawling her eyes out in front of the stranger.

"I hope there would be payment in the afterlife." She smiled.

"Has anyone ever told you that you have a beautiful smile?" The words left Alex’s lips before he could stop himself. Alex had trained himself to have control over his emotions and everything he says, no one would manage a big business like that and not have good control over their emotions and words. But he always found his emotions and words out of control in front of Bella.

Bella was shocked; she hadn't heard that before, and it had been such a long time since she received any complements. She thought she had outgrown it and it wouldn’t matter to her anymore, but hearing it now made her realize she is still very much affected by it.

"Thank you." She responded while facing down. She feared that her face would reveal how much she appreciated the complement.

They talked about the novel and Alex's realization of being the intruder. So, it fell on him to keep the conversation going. The conversation flowed freely, and Bella didn’t hold back her facial expressions. She explained with hand gestures too, and Alex watched and memorized everything he could. The innocence in her beauty and laughter made her more endearing to Alex.

Bella gasped as she looked at the time. "It is past nine."

Alex was surprised too, he had no idea they had been talking for more than two hours.

"Wow." Alex said as he checked his watch. He had completely forgotten that Ola was waiting for him. "I should start going." He stood up.

"It is not safe to walk in this neighborhood at night. Do you think John would be kind enough to offer you a space to sleep?" Once again, Bella was revealing her kind nature to Alex. Unfortunately, Alex had nobody like John who lives in this building.

"I don’t have such a relationship with John." Alex smiled. "Besides, I would be fine."

If Alex wasn’t of the opposite gender, Bella would have offered him to stay the night. And if her siblings were as accommodating as her, she would have asked Alex to stay back. She looked at the time once again and sighed, for her siblings would soon be home.

"Are you that worried about my safety, or just that you don’t want the conversation to end?" Alex asked.

"A little bit of both." She chuckled. "It's not every day you get to have an interesting conversation."

"Then how about you give me your number?" Not wanting to give her a moment to think, Alex added. "So I can call you when I get home, and you will know I am safe."

"Alright." She accepted, and Alex let out the air he never knew he was holding. After giving him the number, she walked him out.

"Don’t branch anywhere, ignore whoever calls you. Don’t board any bus that has only boys inside; make sure at least one or two elderly women are inside the car. Be careful out there." Her eyes filled with care and touch of maternal authority. .

"Sure thing, Mama. I will be careful out there." Alex smiled.

"Be serious." She rolled her eyes. "I will be waiting for your call." She bid farewell, and Alex went downstairs.
Alex was nearing his car when three goons circled him, and before he could do anything, one of them pulled out a gun.
"Give us everything you have, or you won’t see tomorrow." The one with the gun deadpanned.

Chapter 2
“Hello?” Bella spoke warmly, her eyes filled with concern. She could tell that the young man standing before her was somewhat dazed, but the reason behind his disorientation was something she can’t answer. For a brief moment, Alex was in a world where only the lady before her existed. The noise of the honking cars, the buzz of the generator, and the sound of the people around were all erased, and apart from the sound of his heartbeat and the beauty before him, Alex noticed nothing else.
“Hello?” She called again drawing Alex back to reality.
“Sorry, I… I am looking for someone,” Alex found himself stuttering, his eyes catching a glimpse of her reddened eyes, a telltale sign of recent tears. The time it took for him to arrive on the scene was enough for the assailant to make a quick escape. Reminding himself of the purpose that brought him here, Alex shifted his gaze beyond the lady, but all that met his eyes was a solitary chair and a novel resting on it.
“Who might that be?” The gentleness in her voice had a soothing effect on Alex. In close proximity, everything became clearer. Her flawless caramel skin begged to be touched, and her almond-shaped, brown eyes sought an answer to the question she posed.
“Erm, John,” he said, almost impulsively, as if the name had been plucked from the recesses of his mind. A John he had never met and knew nothing about.
“That must be the guy living on the third floor,” She answered, a thoughtful pause preceding her response. As the words left her lips, Alex found himself captivated by the graceful curves of her lips, the upper dark, the lower a rosy red. Her hair, tied in a simple bun, seemed to suggest a lack of pretense. Alex couldn't help but think she needed no makeup, her natural beauty was more than enough.
“Sorry, you have to check the third floor,” she apologized even though she did not need to, a genuine smile accompanying her words.
“Thanks, sorry to have bothered you,” Alex offered his apology and contemplated returning the smile, but the uncertainty of his own composure held him back.
“Goodbye then,” She bid farewell, gently closing the door.
Alex lingered, not venturing far. He waited, silently in the hallway hoping no one would see him standing here. After what felt like an eternity, he knocked again, there is no how he would just leave with only these few conversation. No, his soul won’t be at rest if everything ended like that. During his wait in the hallway, Alex crafted a reason that would give him another opportunity with the lady. His years as a businessman would be a waste if he is unable to come up with a reason. The excuse of seeking John had served its purpose, now, he needed a reason that would make him revisit. He initially thought of complimenting her beautiful smell, which lingered in the air. It wasn’t like the expensive perfumes the ladies he knew wore, her own is gentle to the nose and smelled a bit of lime. Although the perfume was the first to come to his mind, he decided it would not give him a room to come back, so he dropped it. His smart brain came up with a better story.
“Hi, again,” Alex initiated the second encounter, a sheepish smile playing on his lips.
“Hi, again,” she responded, a warmth returning to her eyes. Her gaze seemed clearer now, a positive change that brought joy to Alex.

“So, I have seen John. I came to thank you for your kindness.”
A genuine smile graced her lips as she replied, “You don’t have to, I was just being a good neighbor.”

“Yes, I also came to make a request from you,” Alex admitted, feeling a subtle nervousness. It was a surreal experience for someone who had faced presidents without a hint of anxiety. So it was unbelievable to have his palm all wet from speaking to stranger. Was it right to consider her a stranger, given the days he had spent quietly observing her?
“What could that be?” she inquired, leaning in slightly, her hands gripping the door. Alex hoped it was a sign of shared nervousness.

“I would like to borrow the novel you’re reading. When you opened the door earlier, it caught my attention.” Alex realized he couldn't recall the last time he read for pure pleasure.

“Oh,” she paused then went to retrieve the novel.
“Wow,” Alex whispered, marveling at her enchanting presence. He never believed a lady could look so beautiful from behind. Before she turned back, he composed himself, erasing any sign of surprise.
“You’re in luck.” She approached, the novel in hand. “I have just finished it before you arrived.”
Alex expected to say she was still reading it; then he would come back tomorrow to borrow it. So, Alex was pleasantly surprised. “So, I am free to borrow it?”

“Not quite,” she said, examining the book. “How am I sure you would return it?”

“I am a friend of your neighbor John, so, of course, I will return it. If I don’t within the next three days, you can ask John about it.” Once again, Alex silently thanked all the Johns in the world.

“Should I be trusting that easily?” she questioned, her skepticism tinged with a playful tone.

“Of course not, there are many scammers out there. But I can assure you, I am definitely not one of them.”
She scrutinized him, studying his features. Clad in a suit akin to her banker neighbor's attire, Alex appeared more polished, his demeanor exuding a modeling grace.
“I should be trusting you then.” She handed over the book. In truth, it wasn’t because of his handsome look or his nicely dressed suit, if anything it was the look in his eyes. Bella couldn’t place her hands on it, but something about Alex eyes begged for her trust.
“Thanks.” Alex accepted the book with a sincere smile. As he prepared to depart, he realized he had yet to introduce himself. Extending his arm, he said, “I am Alex.”
She took his hand, their brief contact sending a shiver down Alex’s spine. “I am Bella, nice to meet you.”
“The pleasure is all mine.” Alex reluctantly left, aware that a good performer knew when to exit the stage.
“Alex.” Bella called just as he was about to walk down the stairs. Never has his name sounded so sweeter. “Your three days starts now.”
“I won’t disappoint.” As he descended the stairs, a smile on his face, Bella vanished from sight. Entering his car, he began reading the borrowed novel, contentment settling within him. Something he hasn’t felt in months.

Meanwhile, just as Bella closed the door, the harsh reality of her world reemerged. Just before Alex knocked, she was dragging her credit card with her younger brother, she can’t even figure out her brother got to know her password. The confrontation with her younger brother had left her feeling powerless, and the recent text alerts on her phone was from her bank. Hoping her brother had not emptied her bank account entirely, she checked her phone. To her dismay, he had taken everything. Sitting down, the small joy derived from her conversation with Alex evaporated. Unsure where she had erred in life, Bella sighed heavily, contemplating the sacrifices she had made for her brothers. Although her actions were driven by selflessness, she wished for a brighter outcome by now. With their rent approaching, the money her brother had taken was meant to cover it, and with her job currently at risk, she is truly saddened by everything.

“It will eventually get better,” she assured herself, closing her eyes to quell the rising anxiety. When she reopened them, a semblance of calm had returned, and she reached for a new novel, seeking solace in the world between its pages.

Chapter 2

This is the greatest joke of the century. Thinking about it made me crack up with a laugh I didn't know I still had in me.

"Come on Jess, be serious," I texted, waiting for her reaction.

"I'm serious, I am not your friend," she replied, making me take a more serious stance.

"Are you telling me I no longer know your number?" I sent.

"Check the number. You might be surprised," she replied.

I viewed the number and was shocked to discover I had gotten one digit wrong. Covering my lips with my palm, I felt like a complete fool.

"Why didn't you tell me the first time you received the text?" I asked, anxiously tapping my feet—a habit of mine when I'm nervous.

"Wanted to, but the texts came in too fast, so I decided to entertain myself with them," she said. My heartbreak texts were a means of entertainment for this unknown person. And now, I didn't even know if it was a she or a he.

"That is rude! You just saw my misery as your entertainment?"

"Not my fault. You might be a fifty-year-old woman bored with her marriage, looking for a young boy to suck on."

I gasped. Did he just call me an old hag?

"If you thought it was all an act to get a fresh blood, why did you bother quoting Nagato?"

"Because I've always wanted to say it to someone. You just gave me the opportunity; I couldn't let it pass," she replied.

I chose to believe it was a girl—at least that way, she could understand me better.

"It is official. You are a teenager who can't even earn a boyfriend," I texted, hoping she would be hurt. For some reason, I wanted to mock her.

"FYI, I am not a girl, neither am I a teenager. And looking at the fact that you couldn't keep your boyfriend, your words are for you," he texted, and my eyes widened.

It's a man, and from his tone, he isn't a gentle one. My luck truly is the worst.

"Now I know. You are a forty-year-old man still living with his parents and jerking off every night," I retorted.

"You can say what you want, old hag," he replied.

Does that mean I was right? I stood up and went to my bed.

"I hope you forget everything I told you," I texted, hoping he wouldn't use it to threaten me.

"I won't. I'm even thinking of using it against you," he texted, and I instantly sat up.

"How do you mean?"

"Like you said, I'm an old man that only jerks off in my parents' house. Do you think I'd miss the opportunity of getting laid?"

"What are you saying?" I asked, though I already knew what he was driving at.

"I'd like us to meet and have a one-night stand," he replied so bluntly that it disgusted me.

"Won't happen," I said, already thinking of blocking him.

"I know you're thinking of blocking me. But before you do, remember there's an app called Truecaller. Though I couldn't see your face because you didn't upload your picture, I now know your name," he replied, and I nearly fainted. God, why me?

"That doesn't matter. I'll still block you," I said, still determined.

"Okay. I'll just find you on WhatsApp or elsewhere. Once I get your picture, I'll screenshot your text to me with your picture and make it go viral," he said.

I immediately removed my profile picture from WhatsApp, hoping I was fast enough. Thankfully, this number wasn't connected to my Facebook account, so he couldn't find me there.

"I can track you down too, you know?" I texted, hoping to threaten him back.

"This number isn't registered on any social platform, so good luck with that," he replied. He was right; even Truecaller didn't show his name.

Earlier tonight, I was heartbroken. Now, I was scared. Could I stand the disgrace if my texts went viral? What would my religious mother think?

"How can I trust you won't ask for more after the one night?"

"You'll just have to trust me," he replied.

"Too bad I don't. Do what you must, and I promise to track you down and end your life. At least once you upload it online, you can be tracked," I said, hoping he would believe me.

"You're right. Though I know you can't do anything, I also have a reputation to uphold. So, I'll give you an option," he replied.

What reputation does a jerk like him have?

"What's the option?"

"It doesn't involve sex, nudes, or anything perverted. So, promise me you'll say yes to what I'm about to ask," he said.

I got worried but, since he claimed it wasn't perverted, reluctantly agreed.

"Okay, I promise," I texted.

Dropping my phone, I eagerly awaited his message. My heart pounded as I closed my eyes and heard the vibration of a new text. Picking up my phone, I read his message and froze.

I was shocked beyond reason—for the third time that night.




AN: if you guys want another chapter, do let me know.

Chapter 1



Pain is only temporary, they say. But they forget to add that sometimes, it can kill you in the fleeting moment it exists.

It's almost 2 a.m., and I'm still rolling around in bed, despite knowing I have to work tomorrow. I close my eyes, trying to slow my heartbeat, hoping it will lull me to sleep, but nothing works. All I feel is the excruciating pain that pierces through me with every beat.

I hit my chest, hoping that the physical pain might somehow overpower the emotional agony. It doesn't. Frustrated, I get out of bed and pour myself a glass of water. The apartment feels eerily silent, a stark contrast to how it used to be when Jessica was here.

Jessica, my best friend, moved out last month after getting married. I thought I'd be next, finally tying the knot with Josh, my prince charming. We've been dating for three years. I keep replaying everything in my mind, searching for what I did wrong.

I never cheated. He was my first—my only. I've never asked him for money. I've always been the independent one. So why? The more I think about it, the more my heart aches.

Last week, I heard on the radio that talking about your pain, even if there's no solution, can help ease the burden. I decide to try. I grab my phone and start typing a message to Jessica. I don't want to wake her, though; she's a deep sleeper. I just need to get these feelings out.

I haven't saved her number on my new phone, but I memorized it years ago.

"I have wished a thousand times for this to be a nightmare I could wake up from."


"I keep wondering, what did I do wrong?"


"Tell me, Jessica, if I close my eyes now and fall asleep, will he be mine when I wake up tomorrow?"


"I have loved him with everything in me, and I still do."


"I've always pretended to be strong, but behind closed doors, I cry. I know it will shock you to hear this."


"It's easier to talk to you while you're asleep. Do you think I made a mistake by choosing Josh over Charles?"


"I couldn't help it—he has the most amazing dimples."


"I never told you, but I had an abortion for him once."

As soon as I send that last message, I regret it. Nobody knows about the abortion. I should've kept my mouth shut, but the pain is overwhelming.

I'm in so much pain, I type next.

Tears stream down my face as I pour my heart out into the messages. Jessica might be in a frenzy when she sees them tomorrow, but by then, I'll have my brave face on.

Suddenly, my phone vibrates with a reply.

"Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain. For life's greatest lessons are learned through pain."

I freeze.

Jessica? Quoting something profound? That's new. She's never been one to remember quotes, let alone send one at 2 a.m.

"Did you just quote Nagato?" I reply, surprised.

"I'm surprised you know where it's from," comes the response.

"Of course I do—I'm Naruto's number one fan," I reply, wiping away my tears.

For a moment, my heartache takes a backseat to curiosity. Jessica quoting Nagato? She doesn't even know the difference between Naruto and Sasuke!

"Then clearly, you haven't met me," the texter replies.

What?

"You can't be serious, Jess. I've known you for half my life, and you've never even watched a single episode of Naruto."

"My bad," the reply comes quickly. "I forgot to mention—I'm not Jessica. You've got the wrong number."

My blood runs cold.

Did I just confess my deepest secrets to a total stranger?

Older The Berry

Chapter 1

There is a hole in a man's heart that can never be filled, not with all the riches of this world or with power and fame. Not even having all the women in this world can begin to fill that hole. Some men feel this hole deeper than others, and when it is felt so deeply, everything becomes so melancholy.

Alexander Sterling stared out the car window as his driver navigated through the chaotic Lagos traffic, skillfully avoiding collisions. Lagos, a sprawling metropolis known for its traffic snarls, particularly at this hour. Many would be bothered about being stuck in traffic for so long, especially when they have other means to avoid the traffic, but Alex is not bothered. Alexander Sterling, one of the most eligible bachelors in the city. Alex is the CEO of Sterling Elegance Group. Sterling Elegance Group is a renowned conglomerate in the hospitality and entertainment industry. Under Alex's leadership, the group has redefined luxury and elegance, creating a portfolio of high-end establishments that cater to an elite clientele. The group owns and manages a collection of five-star hotels in major global cities, known for their opulent accommodations, impeccable service, and breathtaking views. They also operate a chain of upscale restaurants that offer a fusion of gourmet cuisine and exquisite ambiance. Each restaurant is designed to provide a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Alex has personally invested in exclusive entertainment venues, including upscale nightclubs, theaters, and performance spaces. These venues host A-list events and attract high-profile clientele. While Alex enjoys the luxurious lifestyle associated with his business, he is also dedicated to philanthropy. The group actively supports charitable initiatives related to education, healthcare, and community development.

With such accomplishments and a luxurious lifestyle, everyone is envious of Alex, and he should be proud and happy, but unfortunately, he is not. Despite the outward success, Alex couldn’t shake away the feeling of emptiness. He can’t even say when the feeling started or if it has been with him all his life. He sighed and rubbed his chest, trying to ease this pain away.

“Don’t worry sir, we would soon get past the traffic.” Ola, his driver, assured him. Ola thought that the heavy sigh that left his boss’s lips was because of the traffic.

“I am sure we will.” Alex managed a smile before returning his gaze to the passing scenery. Because of the traffic, Ola took an alternative route with hope to avoid the traffic. It was a good decision since there wasn’t much traffic on this route, but the road being small and buildings clustered at both sides of the road made it difficult for cars to move freely. So, even without traffic jam, cars on the road have to move slowly to avoid crashing into each other.

“This is a new route.” Alex remarked.

“Yes, Oga. I discovered it today while running an errand for you. Though we can only move slowly, it's better than being stuck in the traffic for hours.”

"Alright," Alex was not one to complain. "A change of scenery is also good." Just as the words left his lips, his eyes were drawn to something that elicited a rare utterance.
“Wow.”
“Oga, are you speaking to me?” Ola asked as he watched his boss through the inner mirror.

“No,” he replied while his gaze stayed focused on the lady. Alex doesn’t even understand why the word left his lips. The lady was just sitting on a balcony with what seemed to be a novel in her hand. She has a smile that is so genuine that Alex is certain the novel must be very interesting. Though he can’t hear her, with the vibration of her shoulders, Alex is certain she just laughed. Alex chuckled as he took in the lady’s appearance. She is sitting down, so it is difficult to gauge her stature, but her face is oval, and although she is far for Alex to see her features, he is certain she has a beautiful caramel skin tone, and her face holds such immaculate beauty. Alex kept looking at her until he could no longer see her; many buildings obstructed his view. After they have passed her, Alex sat back with a sigh; he no longer felt the need to look out the window.

Ola mistook the sigh for frustration. "We're almost home, sir." He honked at a Honda blocking their way. "Move your car!" Ola shouted, feeling the frustration of Lagos drivers..

“Take it easy, I am not sure he can hear you.”

“Sorry Oga, just these Lagos drivers know how to frustrate someone. Move!” Ola yelled again, and Alex just decided to ignore Ola and his driving while he occupies his mind with the beautiful lady he just saw.

It has been three day since Alex saw the lady, and ever since then, he has been asking Ola to take that route home. Unfortunately, he hasn’t set his eyes on the lady ever since then. The balcony is always empty whenever they drive by.

“What am I even doing?” Alex scoffed to himself. Just as he was about to give up, the lady opened the door and stepped onto the balcony. Alex's lips curved into a beautiful smile as he watched the lady step out. Alex took in her full shape as if he was planning to draw her later. He absorbed every detail, like an artist capturing a muse. He knew his time is short since it always takes ten seconds for the balcony to be obstructed by other buildings; he knew because he counted it two days ago. So, with the girl coming out late, he only has five seconds left to enjoy the view.

“One thousand 1, one thousand 2, one thousand 3” Alex kept counting as he absorbed everything his eyes could see. She is chubby with a slim waist; she is wearing a black gown that hugs her body, thereby showing her beautiful curves. The gown stopped an inch above her feet, so Alex couldn’t tell if her legs were straight, not that it mattered. “One thousand 5” with the five seconds up, the building moved away from his sight.

“She must love black.” Alex muttered to himself as he remembered that she was also putting on black on the first day he saw her. Ola looked through the inner mirror and saw his boss smiling, and he felt happy. He fought the urge of asking Alex what was amusing him. Alex is not someone that easily smiles, so if he is smiling now, Ola was curious to know.

The next day, Alex saw her again, but this time she was wearing a purple gown, the same length as the other two. Seeing her again today made Alex confirm his theory.

“She always comes out by 6 o’clock or past six.” The reason why he has been missing her was because he has been driving past the route before it's 6 o’clock. The lady only comes out to read when it's six or past six. From that moment onwards, Alex made sure to always pass that route when it is past six; he started looking forward to the ten seconds each day. For the first time in a while, Alex was no longer thinking about the hole in his heart. He was like a young boy who has just received a new toy, so he would always come back home to play with his toy.

Bella Edochie, thirty-five years old teacher, who has learnt to accept her fate. She unlocked the front door of her apartment with the kind of silence that came from knowing no one was waiting behind it. The hum of the city followed her in, car horns, distant chatter, the mechanical rhythm of Lagos life, but inside, everything was still. Not peaceful. Just still.
She didn’t bother calling out. What would be the point? The house would be empty by this time, her brothers wouldn’t be home by now, and she had grown used to the sound of her own footsteps echoing back at her. Wordlessly, she walked straight to her bedroom.
It was a sparse space, neither messy nor particularly warm. Just a bed, a wardrobe, and a chair by the window. A room that reflected routine, not comfort. After shrugging off her work clothes, she stepped into the bathroom and let the lukewarm water run over her. It did little to soothe her aching muscles or the low hum of anxiety sitting in her chest. Still, it was something.
She slipped into her plain black gown, soft from wear, and didn’t bother with the mirror. She hadn’t looked at herself, really looked, in what felt like years. There was no need to. What would she even be looking for?
Just as she reached for her book, planning to spend the evening on the balcony with her usual escape into fiction, her phone rang. She sighed lightly, then answered. It was Abigail, her best friend and co-worker.
“Hello, girl,” Abigail’s voice rang out, bright and familiar.
“Hey. Are you back home?” Bella asked, sitting at the edge of the bed.
“Yes. These people are serious about the new policy,” Abigail replied.
Bella’s stomach tightened. She didn’t need further explanation. The new management at the school had been tightening the screws, on everyone, but especially on unqualified staff like her. She forced herself to breathe.
“I know,” she said quietly, trying not to let the dread settle. Then, in a deliberately lighter tone, she added, “I saw Mr. Dike checking you out.”
Abigail laughed. “He better be joking with himself. I heard he was involved with one of the staff last year.”
Even if she hadn’t, Bella knew Abigail wouldn’t give a co-worker a chance, not someone like Mr. Dike. Still, gossip was easier to carry than worry, and the two women leaned into the conversation, trading stories and laughter like lifelines tossed across their individual weariness. For half an hour, the call became a brief window of escape.
When the call ended, the silence returned like a heavy coat.
Bella sat still for a long moment, her phone slipping from her hand onto the bed. Her shoulders sagged, weighted by more than just exhaustion. Across the room, a photo of her parents hung crookedly on the wall. She stared at it, searching for the comfort it usually brought, but today nothing happened. It has been like this for a long time and it has made her realize that she is now truly alone. A tear threatened to drop but she blinked it away and took a deep breath to get her emotions under control.
She stood slowly, took her novel, and stepped onto the balcony. The city spread out before her, alive and noisy as ever. Cars honked. Voices floated up from the street. Someone was shouting, another was laughing. A generator buzzed in the distance. It was the usual chaos, the kind that reminded her that the world will always go on irrespective of whatever she is feeling.
She sank into the plastic chair and opened her book after smelling the wooden smell from it that often calms her down. She delve into the world of the novel and slowly forgot her harsh reality. She smiled as the heroine finally stood up for herself. She hope something miraculous would also happen in her life one day.

It has been more than two weeks since Alex started watching the lady while Ola drives him home from work. While watching the lady, he has come to witness several facial expressions from her, and they all amused him. So, today he was eager to see what expression the lady will have but unfortunately something different unfolded. The lady was dragging something with a young man, and he seemed to be overpowering her. Alex's adrenaline surged up, and before he could even stop himself or comprehend his action he found himself shouting

"Stop the car now!" He ordered. Ola, already moving slowly, halted the car. Alex was out and running toward the building before he could comprehend his actions.
“What is he doing?” Ola muttered as he watched his boss running towards the building he has noticed he often looks at. Ola decided to clear of the road and wait for his boss. Though the street of Lagos is not safe, Ola know more than anyone that his boss is more than capable of defending himself.

Before Alex understood his actions, he was already knocking at the door. He knocked twice before he heard a voice from the other side.

“Hold on, I am coming.” Without a doubt, Alex knew who the voice belongs to. This is his first time hearing it, but he has imagined it a thousand times. Alex's heart raced, and he contemplated turning back, convincing himself he shouldn't be concerned about a stranger. However, his feet refused to obey.
“One thousand 1, one thousand 2, one thousand 3, one thousand 4, one thousand 5.” As he counted to the fifth seconds, the door went open, and Alex realized that the distance did her no justice.


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Chapter 1

There is a hole in a man's heart that can never be filled, not with all the riches of this world or with power and fame. Not even having all the women in this world can begin to fill that hole. Some men feel this hole deeper than others, and when it is felt so deeply, everything becomes so melancholy.

Alexander Sterling stared out the car window as his driver navigated through the chaotic Lagos traffic, skillfully avoiding collisions. Lagos, a sprawling metropolis known for its traffic snarls, particularly at this hour. Many would be bothered about being stuck in traffic for so long, especially when they have other means to avoid the traffic, but Alex is not bothered. Alexander Sterling, one of the most eligible bachelors in the city. Alex is the CEO of Sterling Elegance Group. Sterling Elegance Group is a renowned conglomerate in the hospitality and entertainment industry. Under Alex's leadership, the group has redefined luxury and elegance, creating a portfolio of high-end establishments that cater to an elite clientele. The group owns and manages a collection of five-star hotels in major global cities, known for their opulent accommodations, impeccable service, and breathtaking views. They also operate a chain of upscale restaurants that offer a fusion of gourmet cuisine and exquisite ambiance. Each restaurant is designed to provide a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Alex has personally invested in exclusive entertainment venues, including upscale nightclubs, theaters, and performance spaces. These venues host A-list events and attract high-profile clientele. While Alex enjoys the luxurious lifestyle associated with his business, he is also dedicated to philanthropy. The group actively supports charitable initiatives related to education, healthcare, and community development.

With such accomplishments and a luxurious lifestyle, everyone is envious of Alex, and he should be proud and happy, but unfortunately, he is not. Despite the outward success, Alex couldn’t shake away the feeling of emptiness. He can’t even say when the feeling started or if it has been with him all his life. He sighed and rubbed his chest, trying to ease this pain away.

“Don’t worry sir, we would soon get past the traffic.” Ola, his driver, assured him. Ola thought that the heavy sigh that left his boss’s lips was because of the traffic.

“I am sure we will.” Alex managed a smile before returning his gaze to the passing scenery. Because of the traffic, Ola took an alternative route with hope to avoid the traffic. It was a good decision since there wasn’t much traffic on this route, but the road being small and buildings clustered at both sides of the road made it difficult for cars to move freely. So, even without traffic jam, cars on the road have to move slowly to avoid crashing into each other.

“This is a new route.” Alex remarked.

“Yes, Oga. I discovered it today while running an errand for you. Though we can only move slowly, it's better than being stuck in the traffic for hours.”

"Alright," Alex was not one to complain. "A change of scenery is also good." Just as the words left his lips, his eyes were drawn to something that elicited a rare utterance.
“Wow.”
“Oga, are you speaking to me?” Ola asked as he watched his boss through the inner mirror.

“No,” he replied while his gaze stayed focused on the lady. Alex doesn’t even understand why the word left his lips. The lady was just sitting on a balcony with what seemed to be a novel in her hand. She has a smile that is so genuine that Alex is certain the novel must be very interesting. Though he can’t hear her, with the vibration of her shoulders, Alex is certain she just laughed. Alex chuckled as he took in the lady’s appearance. She is sitting down, so it is difficult to gauge her stature, but her face is oval, and although she is far for Alex to see her features, he is certain she has a beautiful caramel skin tone, and her face holds such immaculate beauty. Alex kept looking at her until he could no longer see her; many buildings obstructed his view. After they have passed her, Alex sat back with a sigh; he no longer felt the need to look out the window.

Ola mistook the sigh for frustration. "We're almost home, sir." He honked at a Honda blocking their way. "Move your car!" Ola shouted, feeling the frustration of Lagos drivers..

“Take it easy, I am not sure he can hear you.”

“Sorry Oga, just these Lagos drivers know how to frustrate someone. Move!” Ola yelled again, and Alex just decided to ignore Ola and his driving while he occupies his mind with the beautiful lady he just saw.

It has been three day since Alex saw the lady, and ever since then, he has been asking Ola to take that route home. Unfortunately, he hasn’t set his eyes on the lady ever since then. The balcony is always empty whenever they drive by.

“What am I even doing?” Alex scoffed to himself. Just as he was about to give up, the lady opened the door and stepped onto the balcony. Alex's lips curved into a beautiful smile as he watched the lady step out. Alex took in her full shape as if he was planning to draw her later. He absorbed every detail, like an artist capturing a muse. He knew his time is short since it always takes ten seconds for the balcony to be obstructed by other buildings; he knew because he counted it two days ago. So, with the girl coming out late, he only has five seconds left to enjoy the view.

“One thousand 1, one thousand 2, one thousand 3” Alex kept counting as he absorbed everything his eyes could see. She is chubby with a slim waist; she is wearing a black gown that hugs her body, thereby showing her beautiful curves. The gown stopped an inch above her feet, so Alex couldn’t tell if her legs were straight, not that it mattered. “One thousand 5” with the five seconds up, the building moved away from his sight.

“She must love black.” Alex muttered to himself as he remembered that she was also putting on black on the first day he saw her. Ola looked through the inner mirror and saw his boss smiling, and he felt happy. He fought the urge of asking Alex what was amusing him. Alex is not someone that easily smiles, so if he is smiling now, Ola was curious to know.

The next day, Alex saw her again, but this time she was wearing a purple gown, the same length as the other two. Seeing her again today made Alex confirm his theory.

“She always comes out by 6 o’clock or past six.” The reason why he has been missing her was because he has been driving past the route before it's 6 o’clock. The lady only comes out to read when it's six or past six. From that moment onwards, Alex made sure to always pass that route when it is past six; he started looking forward to the ten seconds each day. For the first time in a while, Alex was no longer thinking about the hole in his heart. He was like a young boy who has just received a new toy, so he would always come back home to play with his toy.

Bella Edochie, thirty-five years old teacher, who has learnt to accept her fate. She unlocked the front door of her apartment with the kind of silence that came from knowing no one was waiting behind it. The hum of the city followed her in, car horns, distant chatter, the mechanical rhythm of Lagos life, but inside, everything was still. Not peaceful. Just still.
She didn’t bother calling out. What would be the point? The house would be empty by this time, her brothers wouldn’t be home by now, and she had grown used to the sound of her own footsteps echoing back at her. Wordlessly, she walked straight to her bedroom.
It was a sparse space, neither messy nor particularly warm. Just a bed, a wardrobe, and a chair by the window. A room that reflected routine, not comfort. After shrugging off her work clothes, she stepped into the bathroom and let the lukewarm water run over her. It did little to soothe her aching muscles or the low hum of anxiety sitting in her chest. Still, it was something.
She slipped into her plain black gown, soft from wear, and didn’t bother with the mirror. She hadn’t looked at herself, really looked, in what felt like years. There was no need to. What would she even be looking for?
Just as she reached for her book, planning to spend the evening on the balcony with her usual escape into fiction, her phone rang. She sighed lightly, then answered. It was Abigail, her best friend and co-worker.
“Hello, girl,” Abigail’s voice rang out, bright and familiar.
“Hey. Are you back home?” Bella asked, sitting at the edge of the bed.
“Yes. These people are serious about the new policy,” Abigail replied.
Bella’s stomach tightened. She didn’t need further explanation. The new management at the school had been tightening the screws, on everyone, but especially on unqualified staff like her. She forced herself to breathe.
“I know,” she said quietly, trying not to let the dread settle. Then, in a deliberately lighter tone, she added, “I saw Mr. Dike checking you out.”
Abigail laughed. “He better be joking with himself. I heard he was involved with one of the staff last year.”
Even if she hadn’t, Bella knew Abigail wouldn’t give a co-worker a chance, not someone like Mr. Dike. Still, gossip was easier to carry than worry, and the two women leaned into the conversation, trading stories and laughter like lifelines tossed across their individual weariness. For half an hour, the call became a brief window of escape.
When the call ended, the silence returned like a heavy coat.
Bella sat still for a long moment, her phone slipping from her hand onto the bed. Her shoulders sagged, weighted by more than just exhaustion. Across the room, a photo of her parents hung crookedly on the wall. She stared at it, searching for the comfort it usually brought, but today nothing happened. It has been like this for a long time and it has made her realize that she is now truly alone. A tear threatened to drop but she blinked it away and took a deep breath to get her emotions under control.
She stood slowly, took her novel, and stepped onto the balcony. The city spread out before her, alive and noisy as ever. Cars honked. Voices floated up from the street. Someone was shouting, another was laughing. A generator buzzed in the distance. It was the usual chaos, the kind that reminded her that the world will always go on irrespective of whatever she is feeling.
She sank into the plastic chair and opened her book after smelling the wooden smell from it that often calms her down. She delve into the world of the novel and slowly forgot her harsh reality. She smiled as the heroine finally stood up for herself. She hope something miraculous would also happen in her life one day.

It has been more than two weeks since Alex started watching the lady while Ola drives him home from work. While watching the lady, he has come to witness several facial expressions from her, and they all amused him. So, today he was eager to see what expression the lady will have but unfortunately something different unfolded. The lady was dragging something with a young man, and he seemed to be overpowering her. Alex's adrenaline surged up, and before he could even stop himself or comprehend his action he found himself shouting

"Stop the car now!" He ordered. Ola, already moving slowly, halted the car. Alex was out and running toward the building before he could comprehend his actions.
“What is he doing?” Ola muttered as he watched his boss running towards the building he has noticed he often looks at. Ola decided to clear of the road and wait for his boss. Though the street of Lagos is not safe, Ola know more than anyone that his boss is more than capable of defending himself.

Before Alex understood his actions, he was already knocking at the door. He knocked twice before he heard a voice from the other side.

“Hold on, I am coming.” Without a doubt, Alex knew who the voice belongs to. This is his first time hearing it, but he has imagined it a thousand times. Alex's heart raced, and he contemplated turning back, convincing himself he shouldn't be concerned about a stranger. However, his feet refused to obey.
“One thousand 1, one thousand 2, one thousand 3, one thousand 4, one thousand 5.” As he counted to the fifth seconds, the door went open, and Alex realized that the distance did her no justice.

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Click on the link below to have daily update on Wrong Number and many other fictional stories thanks


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Click on the link below to have daily update on Wrong Number and many other fictional stories thanks


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Wrong Number

Chapter 5
*Your kind gesture warms my heart, really* he said and I giggled.
*People have always said I am a good girl* I sent. We kept texting that I forgot that I am actually texting with airtime. I was disappointed when my text refused to send indicated that I no longer have airtime.
"Damn" I cursed under my breath. I checked the time and it still remains an hour to closure I then decided to round up and go home.
*Hope you are still alive* I received a text from him and I smiled, though the text sounded absorbed it still made me smile and eager to reply too bad I have no airtime. I hurried on my way way so I will be able to recharge and continue our chat, if only he has WhatsApp or even Facebook.
*Seriously are yoy still alive?* well I don't blame him, with the pace I was replying it's normal for him to think that something is wrong since I haven't replied him. After getting home I quickly recharged my phone, I stopped using bank recharge when it made me use up my savings.
*Now who is missing who* I quickly texted him, I smiled at the thought of him missing me.
*I was just looking out for you, I thought you might be lonely and thinking of suicide, "You know the pain of lonelineas is out of this world"* he quoted Naruto again and I giggled.
*I wasn't lonely, my airtime just got exhausted*
*Oh, I never thought of that*
Come to think of it is he not bothered about his airtime, well maybe he has no one to use it on, after all he does is play game.
*I know you rather play game all through the day, how about you open up WhatsApp at least it will be easier to chat with you and also save my airtime* I texted and then started preparing what to cook for dinner.
*Why do I feel like you are wooing me* I laughed as I saw his text.
*Woo you? A forty years old virgin that still lives with his parents* I already picture him as that, at least in that way I can freely chat with him.
*Not to brag, I am way more handsome than any of your celebrity crush*
*Well I don't have, so it doesn't count and the fact you are praising yourself means you are not handsome*
*Suit yourself and I am not opening any social platform, ha* is he trying to be annoying.
*I will make you, wait and see*
*You are welcome to try* did he just dared me, I will get back at him.
*Wait for me, I want to fix something to eat, I will get back to you* I texted as I opened up the fridge and brought out a container that contains cooked meats, I want to prepare egusi soup.
*Alright, I wonder how awful it will taste* he texted and I smiled but didn't reply.
I wonder why I am so free with him, maybe it's because I have already told him my deepest secret, so to him am naked with nothing to hide.
It took me more than 1 hour to prepare the soup and tidy up the kitchen, that is one good thing about living alone, I can effortlessly keep my house clean. When I was living with Jessica she made it hard since she always find away to rearrange what I have arranged.
*I can't remember any food that takes up to 2 hours to prepare* I received a text from him as I dishing out the food, I smiled as I quickly placed the food down on the dinning table.
*I am so lovable that you can't do without me for long* I texted,
*Its just that I have nothing better to do* I narrowed my eyes at his text.
*So I am your way to escape boredom* I asked, well it's still good if that is what will are to each other.
*You should be happy Miss*
*Wow your ego can reach the sky* he clearly doesn't hides his feelings.
*Well in your assumption I am a forty years old hag that jerks off, still living with his parents and play video game. So, wouldn't you consider yourself special that I have to ignore my game, my jerking off and whole lot of other things just to text you*
*It warms my heart that you think so highly of me*
*Don't mention it*
*Sorry to burst your bubble my airtime will suffer if we keep texting each other* I texted then concentrated on my food, I am not a big eater but I love tasty food. I moan as swallowed the first morsel, I out did myself this time.
*Well I have no way to help the matter*
*there are ways to recharge and get bonus, why not use such ways* doesn't he know such way exhaust faster, I ignored his text and kept eating.
*Let me guess you are eating and ignoring me, how brutal* I smiled and still ignored.
*Fine, I will talk to myself* with his text I pictured a very cute boy that is angry because his mother refused to buy him toy.
*How cute* I replied since I am done eating.
*Now you reply*
*Haven't your mom told you it's not polite to talk while eating*
*No, sue me* why do I feel like I have offended him.
*Its just too tragic wasting my airtime when we can actually chat on WhatsApp*
*I am not opening WhatsApp*
*You are really stubborn and prideful* I texted as his stubbornness is already annoying me.
*You came to that conclusion yourself* I imagined him huffed.
*Well I can't continue wasting my airtime, so long mister* I texted hoping it will make him change his mind.
*If you say so* and I felt the ultimate feeling of rejection. I am not special enough for him to open up WhatsApp, I refuse to text him back. I have always try to do things to please others even if it means displeasing myself, not anymore, from here on out I won't lower myself to be trambled on. I put my phone down, though sad i refuse to text him back. I guess this is the end of the friendship, it ended before it even started, quiet sad


To read missed chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

Wrong Number

Chapter 2
This the greatest joke of the century, thinking about it made me crack up the laugh I never knew I still had.
*Come on Jess, be serious* I texted waiting for her reaction
*I'm serious I am not your friend* she replied making me take a more serious feature.
*Are you telling me I no longer know your number* I sent.
*check the number, you might be surprised* she replied.
I then viewed the number and was shocked to discover I got one number wrong, I covered my lips with my palm as I felt like a fool.
*Why didn't you tell me the first time you received the text* I asked already tapping my feet, its a habit I have when I am anxious.
*Wanted to, but the text was coming in too fast so I decided to entertain myself with it* she said and it got me angry, so my heartbreak text was a means of entertainment for this unknown person. Now I don't even know if it's a she or he.
*That is rude, you just saw my misery as your entertainment* I sent
*Not my fault, you might be a fifty years old woman bored with her marriage life looking for a young boy to suck on* I gasped did he just called me an old hag.
*If you thought it was all an act to get a fresh blood, why did you bother quoting Nagato?* I asked.
*Because I have always wanted to say it to someone, you just gave me the opportunity I couldn't just let it pass* she replied. I am choosing to believe it's a girl, at least that way she can understand me better.
*It is official, you are a teenager that can't even earn a boyfriend* I texted hoping she will be hurt, for some reason I want to mock her.
*FYI I am not a girl neither am I a teenager and looking at the fact you couldn't keep your boyfriend, your words are for you* He texted and my eyes widened.
It's a man and from his text, he is not a gentle one, my luck is really the worst.
*Now I know, you are a forty years old man still leaving with his parents and jerks off every night* I have never wanted to mock someone as much as I want to mock the unknown person. I feel like I will be better if I get to successfully mock him, that my heartbreak can be transferred to him, I know it is bad of me.
*You can say what you want old hag* he replied. Does that mean I was right, I stood up and went to my bed.
*I hope you forget everything I told you?* I texted hoping he won't use it to threaten me.
*I won't, I am even thinking of using it against you* He texted and I instantly sat up.
*How do you mean?* I asked already tapping my feet.
*Like you said I am an old man that only jerks off in my parents' house, do you think I would miss the opportunity of getting laid?* he texted.
*What are you saying* I asked though I know what he is driving at.
*I would like us to meet and have one night stand* he replied so bluntly and it disgusted me as much as it shocked me.
*Won't happen* I said already thinking of blocking him.
*I know you are thinking of blocking me, but before you do that do remember there is an app called true caller, though I couldn't see your face because you didn't upload your picture but I now know your name* he replied and I nearly fainted, God why me.
*That doesn't matter, I will still block you* I said still determined.
*Ok, I will just find you in WhatsApp or anything or anyhow possible, once I get your picture I will screenshot your text to me with your picture and make it go viral* He said and I instantly went and remove my profile picture from my WhatsApp, I hope I was fast enough. Since this my number is not connected to my Facebook account so I know he can't find me there, he now knows my name but there are hundreds of Rose on Facebook.
*I can track you down as well you know?* I said hoping to threaten him too.
*This my number is not registered in any social platform so good luck with that* He replied and he was right, even true caller didn't show his name.
Earlier tonight I was heartbroken now I am scared that my name will be sullied by the public, can I stand the disgrace, what will my religious mother think.
*How will I trust you won't request for more after the one night* I texted.
*You just have to trust me* He replied and I scoffed, like it's possible.
*Too bad I don't, do what you must and I promise to track you down and end your life, at least once you upload it online, you can be tracked down* I said hoping he believes it. Truthfully I have no idea what to do if it goes viral except cry and nurses my broken heart.
*You are right, though I know you can't do anything I also have a reputation to uphold. So, I will give you an option* he replied and I wonder the reputation a jerk like him has.
*what is the option?* I asked hoping it will be favorable.
*it doesn't involve sex or nude or anything perverted at least, so promise me you will say yes to what I am about to ask* he said and I got worried, but since he said it is nothing perverted.
*Ok, I promise* I guess it will be better than having one nightstand. I dropped my phone and eagerly wait for his text to come in, I closed my eyes as I felt the phone vibrated, I picked it to see what the option is only to be shocked beyond reasons for the third time this night.


To read ahead click in the link www.kingsworld7..com

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.

Accidental Brother book two is out, click on the link below to get your copy thanks.

https://okadabooks.com/book/about/accidental_brother_book_two/29032#.XXUcQvPYQk0.whatsapp

Accidental Brother book two is out, click on the link below to get your copy thanks.

https://okadabooks.com/book/about/accidental_brother_book_two/29032#.XXUcQvPYQk0.whatsapp

Accidental Brother book two is out, click on the link below to get your copy thanks.

https://okadabooks.com/book/about/accidental_brother_book_two/29032#.XXUcQvPYQk0.whatsapp

Accidental Brother book two is out, click on the link below to get your copy thanks.

https://okadabooks.com/book/about/accidental_brother_book_two/29032#.XXUcQvPYQk0.whatsapp

Accidental Brother book two is out, click on the link below to get your copy thanks.

https://okadabooks.com/book/about/accidental_brother_book_two/29032#.XXUcQvPYQk0.whatsapp

Accidental Brother book two is out, click on the link below to get your copy thanks.

https://okadabooks.com/book/about/accidental_brother_book_two/29032#.XXUcQvPYQk0.whatsapp

New Story Alert

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.


To read more chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

New Story Alert

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.


To read more chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

New Story Alert

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.


To read more chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

New Story Alert

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.


To read more chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

New Story Alert

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.


To read more chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

New Story Alert

WRONG NUMBER.

Chapter 1.
Pain is only temporary they say, they forget to add that some can actually kill in that small amount of time. It's almost 2 Am and I am still rolling around in my bed irrespective of the fact that I am going to work tomorrow. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my heartbeat hoping it will make me sleep but nothing seems to be helping, the only thing I feel is the excruciating pain I feel with every heartbeat. I hit my chest so hard hoping the physical pain will overrule the emotional pain but it didn't, I stood up from the bed and went and grabbed a glass of water. Everywhere is so quiet, I used to live with my best friend Jessica but she got married last month and I was also expecting to finally tie the knot with my prince charming, gosh we have been dating for 3 years. I keep searching my head trying to think what I did wrong, I have never cheated, he was the one that took my virginity, I have never requested for money I have always been a girl that love being independent. The more I think of it the more my heart hurts, I remembered what I heard on the radio last week, to always talk about your pain and hurt with someone, even if he or she didn't give you a solution, talking about it helps. So, I took up my phone and decided to text Jessica, I am by nature a text freak also I didn't want to disturb her sleep, she is a deep sleeper I just want to type out my feelings and wishes and also pains.
I haven't saved her number in this my new phone, but no worries I memories it a long time ago.

*I have wished a thousand times for it to be a dream*.
*I keep thinking, what did I do wrong*
*Tell me that if I close my eyes and go to sleep that he will be mine when I wake up tomorrow*
*I have loved him all my life and I still do*
*I have always pretended to be a strong woman, but deep down I cry behind closed doors, I know it will come as a shock to you*
* It's so much easier talking to you Jessica while you sleep*
*Do you think I made a mistake by accepting Josh instead of Charles*
*I couldn't help it, he has the most amazing dimples*
*I know I never told you but I had one abortion for him* I texted and regretted instantly, maybe I am going too far, nobody knows about this I should've kept my mouth shut but I am in so much pain.
*I am in so much pain*
I cried more as I text Jessica my feelings, I know she will be on a frenzy when she sees it tomorrow, by then my brave face will be on.
*Sometimes you must hurt in order to know, fall in order to grow, lose in order to gain, for lives greatest lessons are learned through pain* Jessica replied and it shocked the hell out of me.
You might wonder why it surprised me, I wasn't surprised that she woke up to reply to my texts, though Jessica loves her sleep and hardly sacrifices her sleep for anything. I wasn't surprised that she suddenly became wise and sent me a quote, she is a simple girl that can't even remember the simplest quote like cleanliness is second to godliness. I am surprised that she quoted my best Nagato words from Naruto and she has never seen an episode of Naruto.
*Did you just quote Nagato* I asked to know if it was just a coincidence.
*I am surprised you know where it's from* she replied.
*of course I do, I am Naruto's number one fan* I replied wiping my tears, slowly I am more interested in Jessica's sudden interest in my favourite anime, than my painful heart.
*Then clearly, you haven't met me* she replied, met you? Girl I practically lived with you for 10 years.
*You can't be serious Jess, I have known you half of my life and you haven't even seen a single episode of Naruto.* She doesn't even know the different between Naruto and Sasuke.
*My Bad, I forgot to tell you I am not Jessica your friend, it's a Wrong Number* the texter said and I froze, did I just confessed my deepest secret to a total stranger.


To read more chapters click on the link below

www.kingsworld7..com

Dude How come you're posting and selling my story and didn't care to tell me.
It's bad

Diary of Mr. Nice Guy

Chapter 19
"Welcome to my home," I said as we stepped in and she smiled, I can't get enough of her smile, I offered her a seat, she dropped her bag and sat down.
"So what can I offer you," I asked, she smirked and I knew instantly she will ask something hard.
"Remember when we were 10, I cooked yam and it salty you insulted me saying you can do better," She said, the memory is still fresh in my memory.
"Unfortunately, I never got the opportunity till we relocated, so how about you oblige me by cooking," she said and I was left agape. I have never cooked for any lady not that I cared but with Miracle, I so want to give her the very best
"So what would you like?" I asked and clasped her hands together.
"Noodles and egg," she said, she doesn't pretend with me, she shows her true self like we're still ten and for that am grateful.
"Alright make yourself at home while I prepare the noodles" She gave me a nod and I left to the kitchen.
I found myself doing everything in fast motion cause I want to go keep her company, I have peeped her for a thousand times, instead of watching the movie she is studying her book. I came out leaving the noodles to dry out.
"Still nibbling on your pen?" I asked, it's something she always does when she is solving a hard equation.
"Old habits," she said then sighed.
"What's wrong," I asked.
"This topic is frustrating, I still don't understand it," she said, she is Pharmacy so I can't help her in that aspect in as much as I want to.
"Leave it for now and start again when you're calm," I said, from experience it's the best way to understand something.
"Alright," she said then puts the book aside "are you don?" she asked.
"Almost," I said and went back to the kitchen to dish it out, it didn't take me long
"It's mouthwatering," she said looking at the plate, I handed her plate over to her, she said grace before taking the first spoon, I stared at her expectantly.
"A+," she said giving me thumbs up and I visibly relaxed. I started eating mine, she occasionally asks me questions and I happily answer.
"So how about Henry," she asked and I remembered her history with him.
"He's fine, I actually spent my last vacation with him," I said and her eyes widened.
"Hope he's changed and didn't influence you, or have you dropped the motion of wishing to be like him," she asked and am in dilemma on how to answer. The truth is he influenced me and am like him now but seeing you made me regret it all.
"No, I grew past that and he's changed now" I lied again.
"He changed, good for him," she said not quite convinced.
"I know your history with him, he told me and I felt so proud of you, but he's changed now he found someone," I said, am sure no matter what happens they will end up together.
"Alright, am glad you threw away that stupid wish of being like him," she said, am sorry Miracle with time I will open up to you.
We kept chatting about irrelevant things not minding about anything, luckily tomorrow is Saturday so am not in a rush to do anything, it's only my regular tutoring which starts by 10 am.
"So let's play like we use to" She suggested, talking with her about her life since we separated made me realize she didn't make many friends, I understood her maturity and also the childish part she still has.
"What game would you like?" I asked, am already feeling like 10 years old kid, she taps her lips with her index finger for a while before she replied.
"Hide and seek," she said. Since the room is too simple to hide us I knew instantly what she meant.
"So what object do you wish for us to use for the game," I asked and she brought out her pen, she wants to use her pen "so we can hide it anywhere except our body," I said and she nodded.
"So close your eyes," she said in a very low milky tone and I felt my eyelid shut down as if being in a spell. I heard her scramble about I hope she doesn't discover my diary by hiding the pen inside my box.
"Open," she said and I did, I looked at her and she was trying to contain her smile so she tucked her lips inside. I looked around, knowing Miracle she often hides things in plain sight or the box, but since this isn't her box I doubt she will open it, I looked at the box and it was untouched I think back to the noises she made while my eyes were closed. Using the noise as a guild I searched and found nothing, already getting tired, I sighed then turned to ask her to bring it out but I eyes caught a glimpse of it.
"Its there in the window," I said and she slumps to the bed.
"Took you long though," She said and I smile, it's now my turn so she closed her eyes, I took the time to look at her without the nervousness of getting caught. She is beautiful with long eyelashes, she's fair as a tint of pink stains her cheek as a result of laughing too much.
"Am hearing no noise from you," she said bringing back my insanity as I caught my hand just a few inches away from her face.
"That's because am silent like a ninja," I said and she smiled, I tiptoed and hid it with no noise then waited a moment to gaze upon that beautiful face before asking her to open her eyes.
Her eyes went straight to where I kept it which is the same place she hid hers, she went and picked it up.
"You cheated," I said and she just laughed.
"You have the habit to always hide things wherever I hid mine," she said and I frowned.
"Do I?" I asked and she nodded.
"That's I always find whatever you hide," she said and it's obviously the truth. So with no argument, I closed my eyes for her to hide the pen, she told me to open my eyes after a while. Looking at her I knew instantly she broke the rule.
"You're hiding it in your body," I said and her eyes widened.
"No am not" she denied.
"Whenever you break the rules of our game you always look up avoiding my gaze and that's what you're doing now," I said and she frowns "looks like am not the only one with old habits," I said and she brought pen out from her hair and I couldn't contain my laughter.
"You win," she said and we kept playing the game not minding any other thing since we're both living in a world that only we exist, luckily my phone is in silent.
"What's the time," she asked as she started packing her books into her bag.
"12," I said sheepishly, she snapped her head towards me.
"12 what?"
"12.15 am," I said and her eyes widened, we have been so locked up in our world we forgot time still ticks, she looked at me and I completely melted.

Many more chapters are out, go read and enjoy

www.kingsworld7..com

Diary of Mr. Nice Guy

Chapter 19
"Welcome to my home," I said as we stepped in and she smiled, I can't get enough of her smile, I offered her a seat, she dropped her bag and sat down.
"So what can I offer you," I asked, she smirked and I knew instantly she will ask something hard.
"Remember when we were 10, I cooked yam and it salty you insulted me saying you can do better," She said, the memory is still fresh in my memory.
"Unfortunately, I never got the opportunity till we relocated, so how about you oblige me by cooking," she said and I was left agape. I have never cooked for any lady not that I cared but with Miracle, I so want to give her the very best
"So what would you like?" I asked and clasped her hands together.
"Noodles and egg," she said, she doesn't pretend with me, she shows her true self like we're still ten and for that am grateful.
"Alright make yourself at home while I prepare the noodles" She gave me a nod and I left to the kitchen.
I found myself doing everything in fast motion cause I want to go keep her company, I have peeped her for a thousand times, instead of watching the movie she is studying her book. I came out leaving the noodles to dry out.
"Still nibbling on your pen?" I asked, it's something she always does when she is solving a hard equation.
"Old habits," she said then sighed.
"What's wrong," I asked.
"This topic is frustrating, I still don't understand it," she said, she is Pharmacy so I can't help her in that aspect in as much as I want to.
"Leave it for now and start again when you're calm," I said, from experience it's the best way to understand something.
"Alright," she said then puts the book aside "are you don?" she asked.
"Almost," I said and went back to the kitchen to dish it out, it didn't take me long
"It's mouthwatering," she said looking at the plate, I handed her plate over to her, she said grace before taking the first spoon, I stared at her expectantly.
"A+," she said giving me thumbs up and I visibly relaxed. I started eating mine, she occasionally asks me questions and I happily answer.
"So how about Henry," she asked and I remembered her history with him.
"He's fine, I actually spent my last vacation with him," I said and her eyes widened.
"Hope he's changed and didn't influence you, or have you dropped the motion of wishing to be like him," she asked and am in dilemma on how to answer. The truth is he influenced me and am like him now but seeing you made me regret it all.
"No, I grew past that and he's changed now" I lied again.
"He changed, good for him," she said not quite convinced.
"I know your history with him, he told me and I felt so proud of you, but he's changed now he found someone," I said, am sure no matter what happens they will end up together.
"Alright, am glad you threw away that stupid wish of being like him," she said, am sorry Miracle with time I will open up to you.
We kept chatting about irrelevant things not minding about anything, luckily tomorrow is Saturday so am not in a rush to do anything, it's only my regular tutoring which starts by 10 am.
"So let's play like we use to" She suggested, talking with her about her life since we separated made me realize she didn't make many friends, I understood her maturity and also the childish part she still has.
"What game would you like?" I asked, am already feeling like 10 years old kid, she taps her lips with her index finger for a while before she replied.
"Hide and seek," she said. Since the room is too simple to hide us I knew instantly what she meant.
"So what object do you wish for us to use for the game," I asked and she brought out her pen, she wants to use her pen "so we can hide it anywhere except our body," I said and she nodded.
"So close your eyes," she said in a very low milky tone and I felt my eyelid shut down as if being in a spell. I heard her scramble about I hope she doesn't discover my diary by hiding the pen inside my box.
"Open," she said and I did, I looked at her and she was trying to contain her smile so she tucked her lips inside. I looked around, knowing Miracle she often hides things in plain sight or the box, but since this isn't her box I doubt she will open it, I looked at the box and it was untouched I think back to the noises she made while my eyes were closed. Using the noise as a guild I searched and found nothing, already getting tired, I sighed then turned to ask her to bring it out but I eyes caught a glimpse of it.
"Its there in the window," I said and she slumps to the bed.
"Took you long though," She said and I smile, it's now my turn so she closed her eyes, I took the time to look at her without the nervousness of getting caught. She is beautiful with long eyelashes, she's fair as a tint of pink stains her cheek as a result of laughing too much.
"Am hearing no noise from you," she said bringing back my insanity as I caught my hand just a few inches away from her face.
"That's because am silent like a ninja," I said and she smiled, I tiptoed and hid it with no noise then waited a moment to gaze upon that beautiful face before asking her to open her eyes.
Her eyes went straight to where I kept it which is the same place she hid hers, she went and picked it up.
"You cheated," I said and she just laughed.
"You have the habit to always hide things wherever I hid mine," she said and I frowned.
"Do I?" I asked and she nodded.
"That's I always find whatever you hide," she said and it's obviously the truth. So with no argument, I closed my eyes for her to hide the pen, she told me to open my eyes after a while. Looking at her I knew instantly she broke the rule.
"You're hiding it in your body," I said and her eyes widened.
"No am not" she denied.
"Whenever you break the rules of our game you always look up avoiding my gaze and that's what you're doing now," I said and she frowns "looks like am not the only one with old habits," I said and she brought pen out from her hair and I couldn't contain my laughter.
"You win," she said and we kept playing the game not minding any other thing since we're both living in a world that only we exist, luckily my phone is in silent.
"What's the time," she asked as she started packing her books into her bag.
"12," I said sheepishly, she snapped her head towards me.
"12 what?"
"12.15 am," I said and her eyes widened, we have been so locked up in our world we forgot time still ticks, she looked at me and I completely melted.

Many more chapters are out, go read and enjoy

www.kingsworld7..com

Diary of Mr. Nice Guy

Chapter 19
"Welcome to my home," I said as we stepped in and she smiled, I can't get enough of her smile, I offered her a seat, she dropped her bag and sat down.
"So what can I offer you," I asked, she smirked and I knew instantly she will ask something hard.
"Remember when we were 10, I cooked yam and it salty you insulted me saying you can do better," She said, the memory is still fresh in my memory.
"Unfortunately, I never got the opportunity till we relocated, so how about you oblige me by cooking," she said and I was left agape. I have never cooked for any lady not that I cared but with Miracle, I so want to give her the very best
"So what would you like?" I asked and clasped her hands together.
"Noodles and egg," she said, she doesn't pretend with me, she shows her true self like we're still ten and for that am grateful.
"Alright make yourself at home while I prepare the noodles" She gave me a nod and I left to the kitchen.
I found myself doing everything in fast motion cause I want to go keep her company, I have peeped her for a thousand times, instead of watching the movie she is studying her book. I came out leaving the noodles to dry out.
"Still nibbling on your pen?" I asked, it's something she always does when she is solving a hard equation.
"Old habits," she said then sighed.
"What's wrong," I asked.
"This topic is frustrating, I still don't understand it," she said, she is Pharmacy so I can't help her in that aspect in as much as I want to.
"Leave it for now and start again when you're calm," I said, from experience it's the best way to understand something.
"Alright," she said then puts the book aside "are you don?" she asked.
"Almost," I said and went back to the kitchen to dish it out, it didn't take me long
"It's mouthwatering," she said looking at the plate, I handed her plate over to her, she said grace before taking the first spoon, I stared at her expectantly.
"A+," she said giving me thumbs up and I visibly relaxed. I started eating mine, she occasionally asks me questions and I happily answer.
"So how about Henry," she asked and I remembered her history with him.
"He's fine, I actually spent my last vacation with him," I said and her eyes widened.
"Hope he's changed and didn't influence you, or have you dropped the motion of wishing to be like him," she asked and am in dilemma on how to answer. The truth is he influenced me and am like him now but seeing you made me regret it all.
"No, I grew past that and he's changed now" I lied again.
"He changed, good for him," she said not quite convinced.
"I know your history with him, he told me and I felt so proud of you, but he's changed now he found someone," I said, am sure no matter what happens they will end up together.
"Alright, am glad you threw away that stupid wish of being like him," she said, am sorry Miracle with time I will open up to you.
We kept chatting about irrelevant things not minding about anything, luckily tomorrow is Saturday so am not in a rush to do anything, it's only my regular tutoring which starts by 10 am.
"So let's play like we use to" She suggested, talking with her about her life since we separated made me realize she didn't make many friends, I understood her maturity and also the childish part she still has.
"What game would you like?" I asked, am already feeling like 10 years old kid, she taps her lips with her index finger for a while before she replied.
"Hide and seek," she said. Since the room is too simple to hide us I knew instantly what she meant.
"So what object do you wish for us to use for the game," I asked and she brought out her pen, she wants to use her pen "so we can hide it anywhere except our body," I said and she nodded.
"So close your eyes," she said in a very low milky tone and I felt my eyelid shut down as if being in a spell. I heard her scramble about I hope she doesn't discover my diary by hiding the pen inside my box.
"Open," she said and I did, I looked at her and she was trying to contain her smile so she tucked her lips inside. I looked around, knowing Miracle she often hides things in plain sight or the box, but since this isn't her box I doubt she will open it, I looked at the box and it was untouched I think back to the noises she made while my eyes were closed. Using the noise as a guild I searched and found nothing, already getting tired, I sighed then turned to ask her to bring it out but I eyes caught a glimpse of it.
"Its there in the window," I said and she slumps to the bed.
"Took you long though," She said and I smile, it's now my turn so she closed her eyes, I took the time to look at her without the nervousness of getting caught. She is beautiful with long eyelashes, she's fair as a tint of pink stains her cheek as a result of laughing too much.
"Am hearing no noise from you," she said bringing back my insanity as I caught my hand just a few inches away from her face.
"That's because am silent like a ninja," I said and she smiled, I tiptoed and hid it with no noise then waited a moment to gaze upon that beautiful face before asking her to open her eyes.
Her eyes went straight to where I kept it which is the same place she hid hers, she went and picked it up.
"You cheated," I said and she just laughed.
"You have the habit to always hide things wherever I hid mine," she said and I frowned.
"Do I?" I asked and she nodded.
"That's I always find whatever you hide," she said and it's obviously the truth. So with no argument, I closed my eyes for her to hide the pen, she told me to open my eyes after a while. Looking at her I knew instantly she broke the rule.
"You're hiding it in your body," I said and her eyes widened.
"No am not" she denied.
"Whenever you break the rules of our game you always look up avoiding my gaze and that's what you're doing now," I said and she frowns "looks like am not the only one with old habits," I said and she brought pen out from her hair and I couldn't contain my laughter.
"You win," she said and we kept playing the game not minding any other thing since we're both living in a world that only we exist, luckily my phone is in silent.
"What's the time," she asked as she started packing her books into her bag.
"12," I said sheepishly, she snapped her head towards me.
"12 what?"
"12.15 am," I said and her eyes widened, we have been so locked up in our world we forgot time still ticks, she looked at me and I completely melted.

Many more chapters are out, go read and enjoy

www.kingsworld7..com