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“Welcome my love/” Rita said. “Happy Salvar day again.”
“Thank you my love.” Wellington said and held her.” We started the day together and ending it together. My best Salvar day ever. I never have enough of you.”
“Same here darling. Fifty Johns can’t make one Wellington.”
He chuckled.

“You make me feel on top of the world. Come on, let’s get down to business.”
“John handles the business while you handle the real deal. You are such a good friend. Taking care of a friend’s wife is an act of kindness.”
Wellington chuckled but in his mind, he said, “but I do not want anyone to take care of my wife in such a manner.”
Only if he knew that his wife was moaning as Tom made love to her in his cabin.

******


“You made me wet while you sang.” Isabella said as she caressed Tom after a period of sex. “Where did you learn such a style of singing. Fell called it Talk-singing?”
Tom laughed.
“That was raps.”

“What? Like wrapping something up, right?”
He knew there was no way he could explain this so he decided to take a credit that did not belong to him in a place he could not be falsified.
“I invented it. I call it rapping and in future, I will have protégés like Easy-E. Doctor Dre, Ice Cube, Eminem, Snoop Doggy Dog, Drake, and lots more.”
She laughed shortly.

“You have funny imaginations. The names sound funny. You called one of them a dog.”
“Yeah, “He giggled. “I guess he will be proud to be called that.”
“What about the dance steps?”
“I don’t know. I just did it.”
“Really? Okay, now I want to know the real you. What is your real name?”
Tom turned and looked up the ceiling.
“I don’t know.” He lied.
“You don’t know? Please be serious.”
“I mean it.”

“You didn’t just drop from the sky and started living the day we met. Where did you come from?”
“I wish I knew, ma’am.”
“Please cut the ma’am when we are alone.”
“Okay.”
“You did not just drop from the sky, did you?”
“That is the irony. The only thing I remember is waking up on a hill without remembering what happened.”

“Oh my God! You lost your memory?”
“I guess so.”
“So tell me what happened.”
“I got up, saw some men who attacked me because they thought I was spying on them. I ran away and got my clothes soaked in water. That was when I found your husband’s clothes.”
“He was with her, right?”
“Yes.”
“Bastard! Can you describe her?”
“No. she was under him.”
“Okay, skip the details. So you can’t remember your name or where you come from, huh?”
“Yes but I get fragments of memories.”
“Like what?”

“A family that took care of me and they were in poverty. They had little to eat but gave food for me. I wish I can pay them back.”
Isabella had other ideas. This was good news to her. He had no family he could think of or any home he would go back to.
He was hers! She would have him for life. She loved him and wanted him for the rest of her life. She would do anything to keep him and she just got that chance. She wished Wellington would fall down and die. She would gladly marry him and they would rule this house and the entire empire and enjoy the wealth. She knew Wellington had secrets but he had been so smart and as slippery as ice.
What if Wellington just dropped and died? Or someone helped end his life? She was now getting ideas.

She was sure there was nothing she wanted more than this young, handsome and sexy boy. He was also the very good in bed, with styles she had never seen or heard of. She could not even imagine him with another girl. Never! He was hers and she owned him now.
“Can you remember where they you met them?”
“Yes.”

“Where exactly is that?”
“It’s a town called Yorkshire.”
“Yorkshire? That is where Gaius comes from.”
“Really?” Tom feigned ignorance. “I never knew about that.”
“So you want them to have money?”
“No ma…sorry, no my love.”
She blushed.
“You called me your love! I love you.”
“I love you too.”

“Please take me. Take all of me and leave nothing behind. I am all yours, my love.”
They spent another ten minutes making love and while in the act, he paused and said, “ I want you to make your husband give them a job. He is a farmer and his wife knits.”
“Anything you want my love.” She said, high in ecstasy. “They have a job already.”
“And a place to live in.”
“I will personally buy a house for them. A big one and plenty food. Just forget about them for now and let’s make love.”
“One more thing. I can’t locate them. You will permit Gaius to go and bring them. I will ask him if he knows them.”

“Done and please shut up. Take me, please.”
It was while they deeply in adultery, and she was moaning uncontrollably, knowing the cabin was sequestered and she would not be heard, they heard a sudden scream.
It was so loud and a lot more voices emerged. Women and children screaming then a loud rumbling sound that made them disengage at once.

“What is going on?” tom asked. “Part of the celebration?”
“This is strange.” She said and got off the bed and quickly wore her dress.
Tom got dressed too. She peeked and snuck out. “Let me find out.” She disappeared and Tom came out.

The town was now in higgledy-piggledy. There was confusion and the servants, guards.
“What is going on?” Tom asked a lady running.
“The dragon is back!”
Tom looked up and what he saw scared the hell out of him!

*******


[b][/b][i][/i] What did Tom see? How was he going to end up with Isabella, would Wellington find out ? Would he succeed in his mission or he would get stuck here? There lots of mysteries to unravel. If you really want to find out more, it's simple. Please follow marmoodarlee on Dreame.com or simply type marmoodarlee -Dreame and you are there where you can enjoy the full story. Please do not forget to follow me to get updates on my books. You will also find the new versions of Married to a fink, Beneath my heart, The last insurgent, The root of a cynosure and more of my books there. Thank you very much.

Tom had seen Rita arrive with her husband and saw how pretty she was. She was more beautiful than Isabella but Isabella had a more attractive body. Rita was slim, a little above average height with large sexy eyes.
The party began after Wellington officially welcomed everyone, mentioned the top names, thanked his wife and workers for the organization and praised Salvar Benedict.

There were wonderful performances by the invited entertainers, general dance and something happened during the entertainment; Tom decided to sing so he moved to Isabella and said he wanted to perform. She ordered that he should be given a chance and before he came on stage, he quickly had a short rehearsals with the bandsmen and they found his pattern strange but seeing that he seemed to have an influence with the Wellington Family, they followed his order.

When he came on stage and the bands men started playing music the way he told them to, the audience became a little curious. What kind of music was this?
It became more strange as Tom began sing Whiz Khalifa’s song; See you again but added a name.

It’s been a long day without you Salvar
And I will tell you all about it when I see you again
We have come a long from where we began Salvar
Oh, I will tell you all about when I see you again
When I see you again
He began to rap:

Damn, who knew?
All the planes we flew good things we have been through
That I will be standing right here
Talking to you about another part
I know we love to hit the road and laugh
But something told that it wouldn’t last…


“He is talk-singing.” Fell observed. “What kind of song is this?”
“It is beautiful.” His wife agreed. “I have never heard anything like this.”
“What is a plane? Did you hear him say they flew a plane?” Duke of England, James asked.
“Part of beauty of music is invention of poetical words. Plane may just be a word to make his song sound nice. I will like to invite this musician to England to sing for the king.” He added.
“Who is this musician?” Fell asked.

“That is Timothy. He is my wife’s cousin.” Wellington said proudly.
“That is interesting.” Fell said. “He will be a great musician. The way he sings is unique. He is singling like he is talking with a rhythm that flows like steady ocean waves.”
“Hey yo!” Tom went on, “shout out to my home boys…”
“He means his boys at his hometown, perhaps.” A man said.

“Respect to Whiz khalifa and Charlie Puth for the hit song and all the crew and artistes of Fast and furious. Can’t step down from here without a big shout out to Paul Walker. You live on bro. Now I need you to sing after me…just a sec.” He moved to the drummer and said, “just go..boom-boom….boo-boom..boom.boom….” The drummer did that until Tom felt satisfied.
Then he began to sing the a part of I Don’t Care, a song by Ed Sheeran featuring Justin Bieber.

Don’t think I fit in at this party

And the audience sang after him.

Everyone’s got so much to say, yeah
I always feel like I am obody,mm
Who wants to fit in anyway?

‘Cause I don’t care when I’m with my baby, yeah
All the bad things disaapear
And you are making me feel like maybe I am somebody
I can deal with the bad nights
When I am with my baby, yeah
Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh ooh
‘Cause I don’t care, as long as you just hold on to me near


Tom’s songs made the night so lively with the audience singing aloud and trying to dance like he was doing. Isabella was mesmerized and felt so proud of her young lover. The party went on smoothly until around 4:00 AM when the big shots began to retire to their lodges.
“I need to leave, honey.” Isabella said to Wellington. “I know you have a lot to say to your friends.”
“I regret this but you are right and don’t blame me for being a business man. I have a message from King Nathaniel which must make me visit Jame’s lodge.”
She smiled and kissed his cheek.
“I understand my love. I am proud of you. I love you.”
“I love you more.”

She excused herself and walked away. John smugly starred after her.
“John, I guess you will have to see Demetrius on my behalf, please.” Wellington said. “He will be leaving in the morning and we have not finalized the cotton deal.”
“I will do that.” John said. “I am in the loop.”
“Very well and be sure to get your 10% cut.”
John smiled.
“Very good of you.”

“Since you men turn the party into a business conference, I may have to leave.” Rita said with a pout.
“I am sorry about that, madam.” Wellington said with feigned formality. “It is my fault.”
“I understand.” She said with a smile. “That is what you men do to put food on the table.”
“I am glad you understand that, Madam.”
Wellington smiled and left. He was followed by his guards but as they left the hall, he asked them to leave him alone. He Climbed a horse and rode down to his personal garden; a place he loved so much. He alighted and saw another horse tied to a tree.
He smiled as he saw her.

Three


The time was 12:00 AM and the large party hall was filled with important dignitaries. This was a time Wellington loved so much. When Dransvalle was bubbling and the villagers gathering to have a glimpse of men at the top and making the fact that they were his guests. He had organized a group of the villagers who would stand in rows along the roads to welcome his guests. He did not care how much he spent to do this.

There were over two hundred specially designed carts, pulled by decorated horses to convey the guests to his house. He also had quarters he called Guest Quarters to accommodate them. He had gone to welcome the Duke of England, Sir James Hudson, The Duke of Suthaland, Sir Amos Aaron and the flamboyant Duke of Syrusis, Sir Fell Amadon.

Wellington was not just connected to the royals and the high just because he was rich; he had a history with them. He was a small time money lender in England. He was approached by the infamous Baron of England, Hamilton Faggerson, who was a very dubious and avaricious man, for a deal. Hamilton was going to give him five hundred thousand pounds and one hundred pieces of gold as a secret investor. They agreed to 7:3 profit ratios, with Hamilton taking the lager share since Wellington had just five thousand pounds capital. Wellington used a chunk of the money to buy slaves from Africa and started slave trade.
Hamilton was not involved in this and did not know the details since Wellington gave him profits which were altered. Wellington did not give the true details. It was a case of two fraudulent people doing business.

Wellington opened a secret lodge where he made back slaves sleep with high profile men for money and never paid the women. He also started farming using the slaves as the main laborers. His firm began to grow and he discovered that Hamilton stole the spoils of Gregory war which involved three boxes of gold.
On the night Hamilton brought the gold which he did not want anyone to know he had, after killing his soldiers who knew about it, Wellington asked him to spend the night in his brothel because he had new girls from Africa.

Wellington poisoned him and buried his boy in the fields. No one knew Hamilton was back to town because he believed to be on his way back from the war.
No one ever saw him and his soldiers again and they were believed to have been waylaid by the enemies.
Wellington was now very rich and had top friends who were interested in black women. He had VIP lodges for the noble men who patronized him.

His fame grew across Europe and the slave trade made him connected to top men. When King Edwin III died and his son, Price Victor took over, he decided to investigate Wellington. He pounced on his brothels and his illegal activities but Wellington was ready for this.
He had established his mega farm in the small village of Dransville, employed many of them, built a palace for the king and became a force to reckon with. He moved out of England and relocated to Dransvalle.

Prince Nathaniel, King Victor’s brother saw this as an advantage. He travelled to meet Wellington and expressed regrets over what his younger brother did. He asked Wellington for support to over throw his brother.
Wellington agreed and provided funds, mercenaries and even trained slaves to support Prince Nathaniel. The battle was fierce and King Victor was killed along with his wife and three children so Prince Victor became the king.

Wellington never went back to England but he now had the friendship and support of King Nathaniel and many other kings and royals.
He was one of the richest men in Europe now with one of the biggest money lending firm. He was also one the biggest farmers of cotton wool.
Most of the dignitaries came along with their wives, guards and servants. There was prestigious to travel along with workers.

Wellington was ready to impress his guest with the expensive cuisines made for them. The newly introduced turkey was in surplus, chicken, beef, pug, fish preserved fruits, expensive wine, and so many delicacies were arranged on long sets of tables. Smartly dressed waiters in service.
Musicians were invited from various parts of Europe. Also in attendance to entertain were magicians, dancers, poets and drama artistes.

The Duke of Syrusis, Fell Amadon, was a tall, strongly built man with a white long hair with a pony-tail. His face was clean shaven, with an aggressive square jaw and thin red lips. His wife, Joana was smallish and very pretty. She was elegantly dressed in expensive out fits.
The Duke of England, James Hudson was of moderate height with round puffy cheeks and swaggering mustache. He was with his wife, Suzana .
Then the short, chubby man was the Duke of Suthaland, Amos Aaron whom also came with his wife, Helen Magafen.
The royals and their spouses were on one side, including the host, Wellington, Isabella, John and his wife, Rita.

Dybala11:
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The loud sound of the bell brought Tom out of his thoughts. A man dressed like a priest appeared, followed by two young women. He came and stood close to the statue which was placed in front.
Gaius appeared, already dressed in his Stringing cloak. Wellington, flanked by two armed guard appeared, walking majestically as people made way for him. He commanded respect and he seemed to be enjoying every bit of it. His cloak was different. The embroidery was adorned with gold and diamond and the material was pure silk used as the inner material.
“I hope I am not late.” Another man. Also dressed in his Stringing cloak appeared. He was also flanked by two guards. He was short, chubby with a wide side burns and small rattle snake eyes. His cloak was also very expensive and seemed to command a lot of respect too.
Wellington turned and saw the man before he smiled.
“You are punctual my good old friend.” Wellington said. “I feel honored to have you here.”
“Thank you my good friend.”
They embraced.
“How is Isabella?”
“It’s all hunky-dory, John.”
John!
That was the husband of his mistress.
“I hope Rita is fine.”
John smiled and that point, Tom watched him keenly.
“Yes, my friend. She is was out for a horse ride to the farms and now preparing for the night’s party. You know women, that preparation may take hours.”
Both men laughed and the image of Wellington and Rita having sex in the farm displayed. What a shame!
They walked forward and stood at a point marked with white paints.
“Come on, move to your point.” Gaius said to Tom.
“I don’t get it.”
“Stringing point.”
“Em.. it is my first. Being in the cathedral all my life and you know how clergy men are with certain traditions.”
“Ohhh, okay, come with me.”
He led Tom a point that was marked. The points were like two feet apart and made a semi-circle . Wellington and John took the center positions while the sixteen boys, Tom, Gauis and seven other servants took position.
The priest was in front of the statue while the two ladies stood by his sides.
The bell jingled and everywhere went silent.
Tom remembered reading about this rite but could not remember the details.
“Hail Salvar!” He said in a deep shaky voice.
“Hail Salvar!” They chorused.
“Hail Salvar!” The priest repeated.
“Hail Salvar!”
“It is another year to remember the Great son of Syrusis!” He went on, “The Baron himself and the lion of the wildest jungle. The one who walks and the sky rumble, the ground crumble and the battleground humble. He stands firm and never stumble; the attacks the enemies with no grumble and he makes the battle field flow with blood and no fumble. The Baron of Syrusis and the warrior of Europe, he gave hope and cut the darkness’s hope. The dragon killer, the peace pillar. He is the dearer and the sealer; The Baron of Europe! He is the light and the fight. The walk and the flight. The cleaner of plight and the one with the eagle sight. We celebrate you, Salvar The Great…time to raise the flag, and stamp the tag, surely you look royal even in your battle rag and you never brag.”
Immediately he said that, many girls came out and began to share a blue flag with the picture of Salvar standing on a dragon. Tom collected his.
“You may raise your flags, please.” The priest said.
They all raised it up and they began to sing


Sal-sal-sal-sal
Sal he had to up there
Dying for us he says my dear
Sal-sal-sal-sal-salvar is rare
Dirty dragon. Oh you dark fire sputter
Now is winter
Your reign is glimmer
Sal-sal-sal-sa-sal
Here comes Salvar
The great server
Now it’s happy, happy time
Gold and diamond in my mine
Take the egg and go away
Can’t you see it is my day
Saaaaaaaaalvaarrrrr!


After the song, each man would come to the middle of the field and a lady seductively dressed would come out and use a string to tie both of his hands and drag him to the statue and he would kneel down. The lady would remove a big piece of meat from her purse and drop it on a tray. The man would eat it with his hands tied. Everyone went through this and Tom could not make any sense out of it. They believed it was spiritual. After that which they called ‘devouring the dragon’ which the poor used vegetables instead of meat, then they would go before the statue and raise both hands before the lady would rub blue colors on his face while the priest would sprinkle wine on hi s face and the lady gives him a full glass of strong wine to drink.
The poor used locally brewed wine instead of the one Wellington used. After this ritual, the bands men began to play a war song and the men danced with the ladies joining them while they sang the Salvar anthem.
Tom found himself singing along with them and he knew he did not learn the song there but from his past life in the present world. He learnt it from history and it unlocked. After the dancing time, the ladies came in with trays of sweets, dry meat, preserved fruits and they enjoyed.
After the Stringing, Tom felt exited. He was witnessing what he read about and a part of him like shouting that he was a descendant of Salvar The Great but he dared not do that.
After the rites, Wellington gave gifts to every participant and they left. That was not part of the rite but he always loved to show his riches and made everything of his unique.
Tom went back to his room and slept off until to be awoken for the party. It was a party that would begin to unravel the mysteries that the world did not know. This was the beginning of the saga….

Tom went out and walked to the Salvar Stringing gown. He was happy that Isabella had established that he did not know about it so it won’t look strange now.
There were about sixteen young men and new adults there. These were the lucky ones who were privileged to have their Salvar Stringing in Sir Wellington’s house. Each year, he selected a few villagers who either won his archery completion, farming award, bravery award to participate in the Salvar Stringing in his house.

All of the boys wore the cloaks which were different from the ones the poor wore. The material was expensive and the embroidery was done in England and sawn in Syrusis. Wellington loved elegance and class.
The Salvar ground was adorned with low green grasses, bounded by colorful flowers and a well carved sculpture of a man with long hair worn in a pig tail, long thin nose and tight lips. His chest was stout and wore shirt with baggy sleeves. He was in a genuflection position, portraying a fierce warrior holding a sword stuck to the ground and a round object in his other hand.

Immediately Tom saw this image, a sudden flash dazzled his eyes and he closed them. Was that physical? It seemed he was the only one who saw the flash. No, it was not physical but something that nudged his memory. He had seen this statue before. Where did he see it?
He pictured himself in a big room with modern equipment.
Tom Richard! That was a name that rang a bell. He frowned and saw a man saying to him, “I told you that Richard is my name but for hundreds of years we have maintained the family name, Salvar. You are Tom Salvar, okay.”
That was him as a child and he accepted the name, Tom Salvar. That was his father and they had the picture of the portrait in their home. Now he remembered his father saying, “that is your ancestor, my ancestor, Salvar Benedict The Great.”
“Did you meet him?” Young Tom had asked.

Richard and smiled and sais, “no my boy. I never met him, not my father, nor my grandfather or my great grandfather but we have always preserved history. There are some missing parts of the history that I really want to put together but I have tried all I can but to no avail.”
“Missing parts?”
“Yes. I read through history books, journals from my grandfather but could not get it. You are too young to understand this now but I hope I will put it together one day.”
“Why is he great?”

“He was revered through our Europe and was celebrated for twenty years and then something happened.”
“What happened daddy?”
“I will tell you, my son but not today.”
“Did they stop the celebration?”
Richard had sighed.

“Yes. That is what I want to sort out.”
“Why? Why was he celebrated in the first place?”
“You have not read the book by Smith Davon Titled Salvar and the Dark Dragon. It is not really a children’s story book but you will read it someday. It was about him. He killed the Dark Dragon, a beast that devoured and terrorized the people of Europe for three hundred years. Your ancestor killed it and sacrificed his life. He was considered as the greatest warrior in Europe in his days. He fought the Bavazian war and captured the rebel leader, Cane Frod. He also saved the Princess from the notorious pirate, Drud Mackfort and he was below twenty five years old then. He was born in 1470 and died in 1506. He was just thirty-six. He had three children: David, Simon and Paul. His wife was called Suzana. She was a princess and the daughter of King Pius.”

“Was she the one he saved?”
“Very good my boy. She fell in love with him and the king married her off to him. He was naturalized and became The Baron of Syrusis, the biggest kingdom then. Come on, you have to go to school. So what is your name?”
“Tom Salvar.”
“Good. I love you son.”
“I love you daddy.”
Tom Salvar! That was his name.

“He may have numerous clothes but it would be difficult for me not to recognize his clothes and horse.”
“What is going on?”
“Immediately I set my eyes on you, I knew it was time.”
“Time for what?”

“To have my revenge. Wellington has been cheating on me with an unknown woman. I tried to find out who she is but failed and each time I try to sleep with another man, I chicken out until I saw a strange young man who swept me off my feet, dressed in my husband’s clothes and riding his horse. When you claimed to be Joseph, who was a young kid who once visited to deliver a letter to Wellington, I knew you must have stolen the clothes and what else would get Wellington naked and give you access to his whole clothes and horse? I am aware he loves going to the farms with a certain lady. I am glad we had it right on his bed, and his pool.”
Tom knew it was the wife of a friend of Wellington called John but he was not going to say that.“Now that you got your revenge, I guess it ends now, right.”

She smiled and kissed him.
“That is the perk of tasting the forbidden fruit. You gave me what I never had, darling. I can’t stop having you right now. Come on, you need to get dressed and I will be moving you to the quarters behind. That will be your place and our secret haven.”
Tom realized that the main building which could be called a castle had a very vast compound behind with smaller buildings, gardens, fields and a massive kitchen where the meals for the members of staff was cooked. There were many servants, and guards . Tom felt he must be one of the richest men around here.

He was taken to a small, beautiful cabin with a living-room , two bedrooms, a study and toilet but there was no kitchen which meant there was no need for it.
“This was my Uncle’s room. He was Wellington’s foreman and Wellington met me through him. He died three years ago so this place is like my family member’s guestroom. You deserve it now. I hope you find it comfortable. The bed will be changed because it does not fit me. Better get dressed while I go and organize the party. Wellington is bad when it comes to organization and he leans on me. See you, darling.” She kissed him again. “We will meet later, and don’t forget your name; Timothy.”
She walked out, swaying her enormous derriere.

Tom puffed out air and moved round the house. He liked it and what attracted him most was the study. He saw a lot of books and realized that he had to study to have a better idea of where he was. But the thought of how he got here and how to eave still lingered.
He removed his clothes and wore the Stringing costume. It was a long, blue colored cloak with embroidery and a big picture of a dragon behind.
There was a knock at the door. He went and opened it and saw Gaius standing with a sets of clothes.
“Madam asked me to bring this for you, sire.”
“Oh, thank you.”

Gaius came in and dropped the clothes on a sofa.
“You are indeed a special relative of Madam.” Gaius said.
“I don’t get it.”
“Madam is a woman difficult to please and even her ralatives fear her. She is their go-to woman but she really likes you.”
“She likes us all.” Tom said studying him. “Maybe because I was away for years. I have not seen her since I was a kid.”
“That is understandable.” He smiled. “I am glad you are here. I will be loyal to you.”
“Thank you.”
Gaius began to walk out then stopped.
“Sometimes, I find it difficult to make a request from her. I hope you would assist me convey some messages.”
“What do you mean?”

“Em..Sire, I m a native of a small village called Yorkshire, just a few kilometers from Syrusis. Unfortunately, my family lost lots of crops due to flood. I mean the entire village and we are suffering right now. King Pius did not respond to our request for assistance because they say we are a minority. They forget that Salvar originated from Yorkshire but only migrated to Syrusis as Sir Fidel’s apprentice and was naturalized due his to intelligence.”
“You mean he is not from Syrusis?”
“No, sire and a lot of people did not like him. They felt intimidated by his smartness. He invented the WT.”
“What is WT?”
Gaius raised his eyebrows.
“You don’t know a WT?”

“If I knew, I would not be asking you.”
“Water puller. It is a mechanism that pulls water from the well without expending much energy. It is sold all over Europe and made Syrusis famous. He also invented a device that goes…kapoon!” He made a gesticulation that showed explosion.
“So what exactly do you want from Madam?”
“I want Sir Wellington to employ my uncle in his farm. That means coming with his family and that will help ameliorate our sufferings. A lot of people are leaving the village to seek for jobs outside to feed their families. Mt wage can’t do much.”
“What skill do your uncle have?”

“He is a very good farmer. His wife knits and he has three sons and a daughter. They would all be productive. The can build their own house and live. Very hard working people.”
They heard the sound of the bell/
“Oh my God!” Gaius said. “It is time for the stringing. I have to put on my cloak. I am proud of Salvar even if they don’t recognize Yorkshire. Thank you sire.”
He left in a hurry.

Two

2018, Los Angeles, USA.


The SUV pulled up outside a brown building at the end of the street. A fifty-two year old man alighted and walked briskly into the building. He was of average height with grizzled balding hair and wore a clean shaven face. His Italian made suit looked expensive and his golden wristwatch with diamond crystal glittered and made his opulence vivid.

He stopped before a wall and removed a smart card. He slots it into an ID machine and small camera-like equipment projected from the wall and scanned his eyes. He then pushed his thumb on a flat glasslike panel which identified him and the wall split to give him entrance.
He walked in and the door automatically closed back. He did not turn back but walked down a narrow corridor before he took a left turn and entered a lobby.

“Good morning, sir. Mr. Phil is waiting for you” A middle aged secretary said.
“Thank you, Gloria.” The man said and went towards a door and turned the door knob.
“What the hell is going on, Jacob?” The man said angrily as he went into a lavishly furnished office.
“Please calm down.” A smallish man, probably in his 60s wearing a Charlie Chaplin mustache who sat behind the desk said.
“What do you mean by calm down? How the hell do you want me to calm down when my son is missing? What did you do?”
“I don’t know what you are talking about.” Phil said.

“My son is gone and it was not time. He is not even prepared and you let him go.”
“I did not let him go. He asked to study it and I gave it to him.”
“Balderdash! I want him back now.”
Phil bowed his head foe a split second.
“I am afraid I can’t do anything about it.”
“What do you mean? Will he get stuck in the old time?”
“I don’t know and I was only trying to help. You want to save your family name and change history, Mr. Richard Salvar. I am not a foe. Tom Salvar will be fine, I promise

*******


“My dear this is Timothy, Uncle’s Peter’s son.” Isabella said as she appeared on the corridor.
“Uncle peter?” The man wondered “He has a son alive?”
Now Tom got the message of the story she told him.
“I have been in the Academy for years sire.” Tom lied smoothly.
“Oh, that is great. Which Academy?”

“East Cathedral. I have not been to Fishtown in years.”
“And now he feels Salvar Stringing and Feast are infidelity. Those clergies are taking my little cousin away from tradition.”
“Is that true?” The man, Sir Wellington asked, raising his eyebrow.
“Yes, Sire. We celebrated only Christmas, Easter and Christian feast. I have never seen Salvar Stringing.”

“Salvar deserves to be honored. I thought the Bible says Give honor to whom honor is due. I can’t remember it precisely but that is the message. Salvar is a hero and we are celebrating him tonight in my house. I have guest and I will be glad if you join us for your first Salvar Stringing.”
“Give honor when honor is due: Romans chapter thirteen Verse seven.” Tom said from an unlocked part of his memory.
“Oh, thank you.” Wellington said.” Same message so honor is due for Salvar.”
“Is my memory failing me, my dear?” Isabella said.
“What is it my dear?”

“Your clothes. This were not the clothes you wore in the morning.”
“Ohh…. I let it go because it a day of celebration. Some young kids poured mud on me and said they did not recognize me. My good friend Edwin let me have some of his clothes.”
“And yours?”
“He gave it out for laundry but I told him to keep it. I should not take back such things even though I would have to return this.”
Tom could see the assertiveness as he lied. He would not know that she had the clothes hidden somewhere. She did not ask of the horse.
“Very well. Won’t you have lunch before…”
“No my dear. I will have the Salvar Stringing and keep my appetite for Salvar Party. The Dukes of England, Suthaland, and Syrusis would be attending and I must have an entourage to pick them from the sea port. I better have the stringing fast before sunset approaches.”
“Very well my dear.”
“Are the servants ready?”

“The ad hoc servants are on their way but the cooks are ready.”
“Very well. I should change into my attire. Please get one for Timothy.” He said, turned at Tom, gave him him a smile and said, “welcome to Dransvalle. We shall meet at your first Salvar Stringing and what luck do you have to get your first one in my house.” He walked away/
Making sure he was gone, Isabella moved and kissed Tom.
“You are not just handsome, agile, lovely and able but smart.”
“You knew I was lying all these while.”

Thank you very much

devilmaycry:
ride on

“Excuse me.” She went out and came back after a few minutes with an obsolete straight razor shaving stick. She also brought a towel and said, “you will have to bring your clothes so the laundry man can handle it. I got new clothes for you. I guess you must be hungry. Today is Salvar day and there is more than enough to eat. My husband hosts Salvar night which starts from midnight as a tradition.”
“Tom wanted to know about Salvar but this was not the right time.
“Have you had your Salvar stringing?”

“No ma’am.” You will do that with the men. We do it traditionally here but as you know, only adult men do it and that starts from age fifteen.”
“Fifteen”
“Yes, why? A fifteen year old is an adult. Puberty, hair on places and voice changing.”
Tom was used to adulthood starting from eighteen.
“Yea ma’am. I forgot …”

“When did you have your first Salvar Stringing?”
“Uhhmm…I was seventeen.”
“How old are you, Joseph. I guess I forgot.”
“I am nineteen and would be twenty in three months time. I will like to watch Chicago Bulls play that day.”

“Chicago Bull? What specie of bull is that?”
Chicago Bull! That just slipped out of his mind and it must have come from a subconscious, preconditioned mind-set of his.
What was Chicago Bull? He could see the head of a bull and something round with stripes.
Basketball! Yes, Chicago Bull was his favorite basket ball team.
The memory locked again.

“Enjoy your bath, Joseph.” She said and went out.
He quickly removed his cap and shaved his hair. It was better to have a shaven hair which had had always existed than the flat top he wore.
He pulled off his clothes and was now naked. He got himself into the water and was astonished to find it warm. How did they do that? Then he saw the water inlet and guessed they have pumped warm water into the pool.

He felt the warmth and closed his eyes to let all his troubles drain so he could enjoy the warm bath after the royal meal. He heard a sound and opened his eyes.
“I think I need a bath too.” She said and Tom saw her standing by the doorway, stark naked. He shivered as she began to walk coquettishly towards him. He knew he could not refuse her after the reception and the youthfulness in him.

*******

“You are such a sweet young man.” She said as they lay on the bed. “My name is Isabella, Joseph and I have a little story for you. I want to know how good your memory is. Are you ready?”
Tom nodded, still not comfortable because he knew whoever her husband was, he was rich and powerful.

“A young man called Timothy Peter is a native of Fishtown and was taken to East Cathedral Academy where he lived for so many years. His uncle is Simon Aaron and now he has to connect with his cousins and relatives he has not known or seen in years……” She kept talking while Tom listened attentively.
“I feel ashamed to celebrate Salvar Day when I don’t know what it is all about.”
He thought this would astonish her but she had only smiled.

“Salvar is a hero who single handedly fought the Dark Dragon twenty years ago. The Dark Dragon was said to have evolved from a Dragon egg which was preserved by in the cave of Syrusis and found by a witch called Durenga. She hatched it and cast a spell on the dragon which terrorized us and killed a lot of people for three hundred years. No one could face it as many soldiers and warriors were killed. Salvar is from Syrusis and made a team of hunters who hunted the Dark dragon. He was a very smart and inventive warrior who invented a device that could explode. He had to sacrifice his life by blowing himself and the Dark Dragon which was the only way the Dragon could be killed. It is reported that he also destroyed the sister egg which was scheduled to hatch in 1510. So every year, on the day he died, he is celebrated all over England and the cities around it and that includes us. So that is about Salvar the Great.”

She had sex with him again before she went out after giving him new clothes and going away with the old ones.
Tom did not know if capitulated to this adultery because she was his host or her voluptuousness. After an hour, he was woken up by a maid who said to him it was time for the traditional Salvar Stringing.
Tom felt his heart racing. He did not know anything about the tradition and he could not ask Isabella. He got up, dressed up and as he walked out; he saw a man and froze.
“Who are you?”

There was no doubt; this was the owner of the house and Isabella’s husband. Tom recognized him to be the man who he saw making love to a married woman and stole his clothes and horse. This meant one thing; Isabella recognized the clothes and horse and knew he was lying. What would happen to him now?”
“I said who are you and what are you doing here?”

******

“Ohhh, Joseph, come inside. How are you?”
He felt a sensation of relief.
“I am fine ma’am.”
“What a pleasant Salvar surprise. You must be tired. Wait please….” She turned, “Gaius!” she called and a young man Tom guessed was a servant appeared.

“Get the horse to the stables.” Yes, Madam.” He said, came out and bowed at Tom before taking hold of the horse and taking it away.
“Please come in.” She said and tom walked into a big living-room he found beautiful but archaic. This triggered some memories in him. He saw images of LCD Smart TVs, laptops, i-pads, phones…The thought of a hone gave his heart a bang. He tried to know why that fell different when he thought of a phone but he felt that part locked up.
“You must be tired. Please sit down.”
“Thank you, ma’am.”

As she walked away, Tom saw her vibrating bum and quickly took off his eyes. She must be the wife of a powerful and rich man. While she went out of the cast, heavily furnished living-room, a lady he guessed was a maid pass by and climbed up the stairs.
After a few minutes, she came back with a smile.
“Are you going to stay for a while?”
“Yes ma’am. At least for a few hours or more.”
“You look fagged-out. Please come with me.”

She led him to a long dining table where the maids had served food already. Tom was salivating already.
“I guess you have not had the new meat introduced to England and my husband ordered for plenty. Only three families eat it here and only three families use sugar. Sugar is very expensive so the poor have to use honey. It is called Turkey. Introduced to England Last year. It is called turkey”
Turkey? Was she serious? It was official that he living in history.
“Last year….what name is last year, please?”
She gave him an astonishing look.
“1525 0f course.”
1525? So this was 1526. Oh God. Now some things made sense to him like the fruits that were cooked and made into pies and tarts. It was believed at the 16th century that fresh fruits were bad for health so it was cooked and made into pies. The rich Tudors ate preserved fruits. Rich Tudors ate vast amount of meat but rarely ate vegetables and were therefore poorly fed. Poor people ate plenty of vegetables because they had no option and vegetables were cheap while meat was expensive and a luxury.
“Oh, I thought it had a special name like the year of Turkey.”
She chuckled.
“No.”

On the table were a variety of preserved fruits, gingerbread, sugared almonds and jelly, turkey soup, Charismas pudding and lots more.
“Come on, enjoy your meal. Excuse me please.”
She walked away and he starred after her for a second as she swayed her hips. Who was Joseph and why did they think he was him? Was it his double-ganger or someone he possessed his soul to come here?
He forgot about all of that and pounced on the meal. The taste felt different from the food the was used but he enjoyed it and coupled with the fact that he did not know when last he had any meal. He did not even know how long it took him to get here.
After the meal which was obviously for the poor, he felt satiated and more relaxed but the image of a phone kept resonating with him.
She came back.

“I hope you enjoyed the meal. We have the best cooks in Dransvalle.”
“Excuse me?”
“The name of this village, have you forgotten?”
“No ma’am.”
“Now you need a wash. Come with me.”
As he followed her, he had troubles trying not to stare at her wide, round back and the fact that she swayed the hips coquettishly exacerbated his libido stir.

She led him to a beautiful quarter with a small pool carved of stones with a channel that allowed used water to flush out and another for replenishing. There were pots of indoor flowers.
“I guess you need a bath and new clothes.” She said and added, “Joseph.”
“Yes, ma’am and a shaver.”
“Very well. My husband got a shaver giving to him as a gift from King Pius. I will let you use it.”
“Oh, thank you. Is he around?”

“Good afternoon, sire.” Tom repeated. “Thank you and Happy Salvar day too.”
He began to see more people, all dressed alike and, while some walked on foot, some were in horse drawn carts while some on horses. He began to see a few houses, mostly built wooden frames filled with bricks with thatched roofs .Some were just huts and it was obvious that the type of house one built depended on his financial capability.

He saw kids playing around, women holding pots and probably going for water, and men could be seen around but it was a small village.
Even though Tom was dressed like them, some gave him curious looks which meant it was a village where a stranger would be identified easily.
Now he was here with no money and needed food and a place to have a rest. He saw an old man sitting on a wooden pew by the road.
“Happy Salvar day, sire and good afternoon.”
“Happy Salvar day kid. Have you had your Salvar stringing?”
Salvar stringing?

“Ohhmmm, I am a stranger here and in need of food right now. I will deal with that after that.”
“You still have Tome kid. Sunset is still a few hours. Did you say you are a stranger? The old man gave him another look. “Have you lost your way? That is where you need to go and you will have plenty of food.” He pointed at big wooden building at the far end of the street. “You must be Joseph of Guhamton. I recognize you now. You grandfather and I were in King Vincent’s Special Regiment during the Rebel uprising. There he met your grandmother. Okay, boy, sure do come and have a Salvar drink with me later. I need to tell you some old time stories.”
“Sure sire.”

“Happy Salavar day once again.”
Tom nodded and rode on. He was now so famished and lassitude he felt like falling off the horse. He saw women carrying food in trays, men slaughtering and roasting lambs.
Then a group of teenagers, all dressed in blue dresses came up the street, holding blue flags and singing aloud

Sal-sal-sal-sal
Sal he had to up there
Dying for us he says my dear
Sal-sal-sal-sal-salvar is rare
Dirty dragon. Oh you dark fire sputter
Now is winter
Your reign is glimmer
Sal-sal-sal-sa-sal
Here comes Salvar
The great server
Now it’s happy, happy time
Gold and diamond in my mine
Take the egg and go away
Can’t you see it is my day
Saaaaaaaaalvaarrrrr!


Tom saw the people around singing along with them with bliss so he began to move his lips and shaking his head if he was singing along. After his experience with the three men with swords, he never wanted to have a similar experience here.
The building was large and stood out. The wooden frames were thick and the bricks were decorated and painted. The roof was high and the door was wide.

Tom wondered why he was directed here and was mistaken for Joseph of Guhamton. Well, if that could fetch him food right now, he was going to keep being Joseph but he paused. He should have asked the loquacious old man more about Joseph. But that may have raised suspicions.
He went to the front door and knocked.

“Happy Salvarrrr!” a youth tapped him hard on the back and ran past him excitedly. “I got my first Salvar stinging! I am now a Sapharino.”
Tom did not expect the tap and that scared him at first, coupled with his paranoia.
“Shut up, Pius. I got my fifth today.”
“Because you are old, ol’boy.”
Some girls laughed.

The front door opened and a lady appeared and gave tom a quizzical look. She looked at him in a similar manner the three men had looked at him. What was wrong? His head was covered and did not look different from them.
“Good afternoon ma’am and happy Salvar day.”
For a woman, she was one of the tallest woman he had ever seen. She was chubby with a slim neck and small round face. Her braided hair was milk colored adorned with shiny crystals and flowers. Her inner gown was skinny from the top and widened below. She had the widest hips he had ever seen and he could guess she was a between twenty-eight and thirty years old.

“I am Joseph of Guhamton.” He did not know that to say next. Should he tell her that he was here to get food.

[b][/b][i][/i] I have heard a lot people say Nigerians don't like fantasy stories, it's not part of our culture, yet we watch fantasy movies, time-travel movies, alien movies, etc. But fantasy has been part of us for ages. The stories of tortoise, folktales, myths and so on. I remember the wisdom and massages behind most of those tales we were told. Okay, enough of the talks. Let us enjoy this story titled Hidden. Thank you very much.




One


Tom opened his eyes and let out a deep sigh. He saw the vast azure sky, stretching and dotted with fluffy white and sapphire clouds, while the sun beamed, casting a beautiful glow on the earth. The breeze, hitting him with a soft touch of serenity and comfort and he closed his eyes again.
He hoped he was not late. He sat up then cringed.
He was on the ground, covered with green grasses stretched further to meet what looked like woods. Okay. He must still be dreaming and it was Tome he woke up. He got on his feet, looked round the hummock befuddled. Where was this? This did not feel like a dream.
It was at that point he heard some voices, and he turns round. He realized he was on a little hill so he moved to the edge. The slope lead to a flowing pellucid stream which extended to meet a river. Now he was sure he was not dreaming because he felt the lower temperature of the hummock now hitting him.

He saw three women, all dressed in long gowns with sleeves, over skirts with linen chemise. They all had their hair decorated with hair flowers, pearl feathers and made into braids. They talked and laughed.
Tom was astonished when he did not see the camera crew as he assumed they were acting an epic movie. They did not look like they were acting a movie. Why were they dressed like 16th century damsels?
How did he get here? He shook his head and assured himself he was not dreaming. He seemed not to remember how he got here.
“What do we have here?”

A voice said and Tom turned swiftly. He saw three men standing behind grimly. Just like the women, they looked like the men of the 16th century. They wore contrasting fabrics with embroidery, applied trims and surface ornamentation. It seemed they were dressed for a special occasion
They looked at him as if they were seeing an alien. He was right; they began to move back while their hands moved to their swords as they saw him as an alien.
“Hey, guys chill.”

“What are you?” One of them asked, fear displayed on rotund face while his hand shivered his sword. They saw his dark square cut and wondered what king of hair he was wearing. Then he wore denim pants, white T-shirt which he covered with a black leather jackets. His high-top basketball sneakers looked so strange they were sure he was not from this planet.
“I am Tom.” He said and saying his name brought a spark that popped up some memories into him. He remembered he was Tom Hacks; a nineteen year old college boy based in Manhattan. How did he get here?
“Where am I and what year is this?” He asked.

The men looked at each other. They got the message. He was not from here and maybe the seed of the Dark Dragon.
They drew out their swords.
“He is the seed of the dark dragon.” One of them said and they all moved back in readiness.
“He is I spying on our girls and plans to snatch them to the Land of Quiranza.” The second man said
“Kill him!”
Tom knew he was in trouble so he turned and broke into a run. He did not hesitate to take a jump down the cliff which was over eighty feet high and jumped into the river.

He submerged for a few a minutes before emerging but the men did not jump after him. He began to swim away, still trying to figure out how he got here and why he could not remember how he got here.
He kept swimming and after about forty minutes intuition told him to get out the water. He felt cold, wet and famished.
He had to leave this place but how? He had to remember how he came in order to have an idea of how he would leave.
He was now walking along a farm with no idea of where he was going to. He heard voices and stopped, quickly lay down and crawled underneath the plants.

It took just a few seconds before he saw a man with bushy moustache holding a woman as they talked and laughed.
“John said that to me a long Tome ago.” He said.
“Really?” The woman said. “But he feels you can handle it for him.”
“I can handle more than that, my honey. I can handle his wife too.”
She giggled and they kissed.

“Secret affair has it’s unique sweetness.” She said.
“Especially when we are both married and have to come to the farms.”
They laughed again.
Tom watched them cuddle and their clothes began to fly off their bodies. Just within a few seconds, they were on the ground and Tom knew he had no Tome to hesitate. They were just a few hundred yards away from him but adultery had overwhelmed them and they were lost in ecstasy.
Tom crawled and within a few seconds, he dragged his clothes and got up. His steps alerted them and they sprang up in shame but did not see him.

“Hey! Hey!” he shouted but Tom was running already. He could not believe his luck when he saw a horse tied to a tree. He quickly untied it and mounted it and rode away.
Fifteen minutes later, he stopped the horse and alighted. He tied it to a tree and pulled off his clothes and wore the man’s clothes. He chuckled as he imagined what he looked like. He threw his clothes away. Those were like a death sentence. He then covered his head with the man’s cap to hide his haircut and felt safer. He mounted the horse and began to ride on.

He felt so hungry and tired he allowed the horse to lead him on. After a few minutes, he found himself on a windy road. Should he go on or stop? But he had to find food or a place to rest and at least have the mindset to know what was really going on.
He saw a man on a horse riding towards him. He hesitated. A part of him told him to turn back but another part told him that may lead to suspicion. The most scary part was that he had no idea where he was, what Tome year it was or the kind of people living there.
“Good afternoon, Sire.” The man said and rode past him. “Happy Salvar day.”
Salvar day?

Ann2012:
Thanks for the update

You made it possible The honor is mine. Thank you very much

“He is my boyfriend.” She said. “Let me go, please.”
It was the man who had shoes with stitches.
“Look down there. So many men could not make it.” He said. “Look at that guy,” he pointed at a huge man on the bank of the ocean, “he ripples with muscles. He is a professional boxer but he did not make it. It is all about fate. Let him try again but you can’t throw this chance away. If you are destines for each other, he will come after you.”
He let her go.
“If you feel otherwise, then jump down.”
The ship began to move.
“Sara! What are you still doing over there?” Andrea shouted. “Ho detto salta giù”
No! She could not leave without him. They had planned this together for a year. They had the dream together and had to live it together. She had to leave the ship. She took a step, turned and saw the young man looking at her. She looked at Andrea, he was now swimming after them.
“Cosa c'è di sbagliato in te (what is wrong with you)?” Andrea shouted angrilly.
“Mi dispiace (I am sorry), Andrea.” She said with a heavy heart. “Non posso tornare indietro (I can’t come back)”
Andrea stopped swimming and stared in disbelief. Did she just say that? Was she really leaving without him? No, maybe she was just playing some pranks. She was a very good swimmer and maybe she would jump into the ocean and swim towards him. They would try again.
No. The way she stared at him told him she was not ready to jump. He watched the big ship sail away until he lost sight of it.
“I know that was a hard decision.” The man with the torn shoe said to her.
“He has all the money with him.” She said without looking at him.
“Don’t worry about that. I would take care of your financial needs.” He said assertively.
She turned swiftly and looked at him thoroughly. His trench coat was tattered, faded and had some of the buttons missing. His benie looked like the remains of a things used for tug of war by dogs. Then she looked at his shoes with the toe waving at her.
“I am just being humble.” He said.
She grimaced.
“Please get out of my sight.” She said as tears accumulated in her eyes.
“Okay.” He said. “The offer is still open. Just let me know if you need something.”
“Ho detto di sparire dalla mia vista( I said get out of my sight)!” She shouted and many people turned around. He saw them studying his clothes and most of the eyes settled for a longer period on his shoes.
“Okay everyone, I am Mario, and I am happy to be here. If you are happy to be here, n our way to the dream country, sing along with me..


C'è 'na luna mezz'u mare

Immediately he started singing Luna Mezza Mare, almost everyone sang along with him.

Mamma mia m'a maritare
Figlia mia a cu te dare
Mamma mia pensace tu
He succeeded in drawing their attention away from his shoes and an air of celebration erupted.
Se te piglio lu pesciaiole
Isse vai isse vene
Sempe lu pesce mane tene
Se ce 'ncappa la fantasia
Te pesculia figghiuzza mia
Là lariulà pesce fritt'e baccalà
Uei cumpà
No calamare c'eggi'accattà
C'è 'na luna mezz'u mare
Mamma mia m'a maritare
Figlia mia a cu te dare
Mamma mia pensace tu
Se te piglio lu pulezia…
Te scuppettea figghiuzza mia

After the song, the cheered but he looked round and saw that Sara was missing. Where was she?
******



This is the incipience of a thrilling saga, cut across generations,encapsulated with twists and suspense. Who is the guy with the tattered shoes and how is he connected to the saga? Will Sara forget her love or get back to him? What lies ahead in America? A lot will happen.... If you are enjoying this and want to keep reading it, please follow me on the link below. Follow me and the stories and you will also find mt other books, new versions of Married to a fink ( She plans to kill me), Beneath my heart (Risen from the dark), and more.[/b]
Thank you very much.

[b]The seventh family- Dreame
Author: marmoodarlee[center][/center]
[b][/b][center][/center]

M.B Alee

1927, Italy Harbor

Andrea moved agitating, his eyes set on the sandy road as he felt so restless. The twenty-three year old Sicilian feared if she would not make it. This had been their dream for the past two years and they just had the opportunity to achieve it now. She was supposed to be around but he had not seen her.
He could see people gathered, all waiting for the great ship. They knew it was the survival of the fittest and she was meant to be here. He took a few more steps before the saw her and his heart melted.
Sara was an epitome of beauty with a voluptuous body. She carried her twenty year old body with grace and agility. She had her bag hung over her shoulder and smiled when she saw Andrea.
The couple met two years ago and fell in love. Their relationship blossomed and they began to think of that world of carte blanche. They needed a new life and tired of the humdrum life they lived here so they began to plan to migrate. They planned for one year and saved money for the trip. They realized that even after the payment, luck was needed to board the ship due to competition.
Andrea ran and hugged her.
“I was afraid you were not going to make it.” He said.
“Mama was suspicious and kept watching me. I had to throw my bag to the backyard and wait for her to go in. This took like forever. I am glad I am here now.”
The cheer from the crowd attracted their attention as they saw the mast of the ship and then the ship honked.
The harbor became noisy. There were over sixteen thousand immigrants there. All those that were either sitting or lying now got up in readiness. The ship had had their armed security men who held rifles and pistols, wearing stern faces. The ship was owned by an American based Italian bootlegger.
When the ship reached the harbor, those who paid for first class tickets were allowed to board firstly. Most of them were rich farmers with their families. The second class also got in. Even some poor families who had children sold everything they had, including their farmlands to board the train.
It was now time for the common class. Everyone had their tickets in waterproof packs and well hidden because after they boarded, the security men would check and you lost yours, you will be thrown out.
Everyone stood in readiness. Andre held Sara’s hand and they looked at each other.
“The dream.” Andrea said.
“The dream.”
Sara turned and saw a young man standing behind them, munching the nuts carelessly.
The first thing she noticed was his sapphire eyes and long, pointed nose. His red lips moved as he chewed. He had a very small bag hung over his shoulder.
She looked at his shoes and nearly burst into laughter. The shoe had more than seven stitches and one of his toes was exposed due to a tear.
Their eyes met and he noticed that she was looking at his shoes. She felt embarrassed and carried off her eyes.
Phwwwwwhht!
The whistle was blown.
They broke into a run towards the ship and the violent struggle to enter began. People pulled and pushed each other; some tripped and fell, and get stepped on.
A man was almost in when someone pulled him and tried to take over the spot. The fallen got up angrily, grabbed the man who had pulled him by the leg and pulled him before sending a punch to him. The man fell into the water and immediately began to swim to another spot. Some exchanged blows.
Sara and Andrea had been struggling and with luck, Sara got on board. Andrea moved back, ran forward and made a jump, grabbed a pole before someone pulled him violently and they both fell into the water.
Phwwwwwhht!
The struggle was over. Only those on board at the time the whistle was blown were qualified while some still fought on the ground, so many in the water.
“Saraaa!” Andrea shouted and she covered her mouth.
Oh no! Andrea did not make it. He was still in the water and the crew began to get the ship set to move.
“Andrea!” She shouted.
“I did not make it!” Andrea shouted. “Jump down.”
She was now confused. She really wanted them to go to America, the dreamland but here was Andrea still in the water.
“I said jump down, the ship is about to move.”
Sara took a step forward before she felt a hand grab her. She turned and saw the man who had held her.
“There is a word called fate.” He said. “You can’t lose this chance.”

It happened so fast she did not see it and none of them expected it. Jayden was lying on his fave and had removed his gun as they concentrated on the rape. He fired three shots and each met its target.
Joe had not expected this and he needed tot to be told that Jayden was a dab hand when it came to guns. Jayden turned the gun at Joe but the bull sprang up and hit Jayden’s hand.
The gun fell off from Jayden’s hand but he quickly rolled on his side. This move saved him from the heavy punch Joe sent to his face.
Joe sent a quick successive punch again but to his amazement, Jayden was up on his feet.
Joe growled and moved towards Jayden. His fist looked like the head of a jumbo sledge hammer. He threw it sideways and caught Jayden on the ribs.
Jayden hit the wall and felt pains. Joe did not want to waste any time. He was angry and pugnacious so he made a mad rush at Jayden who swerved.
Jayden smirked.
“I killed your Fuc**mg pig and grubby tarts.”
Joe was now mad.
“I swear you are a dead meat.”
“Who is deader than an impotent giant?”
“I am the only man alive in this room, Mr. No-dic*”
Damn! No one had ever said this to Joe and if there was something he detested, it was talking about his impotency.
He gave Jane a deadly glance and spat on the floor.
“You told him that, huh? Now both of you are dead!”
He made a mad rush for Jayden. Jayden was expecting him. He had intentionally provoked Joe, to make him so angry and that was a great advantage.
Joe jumped up and swung his left leg powerfully to hit Joe of the jaw. Joe’s head turned with a cracking sound of his neck bone.
Before Joe could regain his balance, Jayden who knew Joe was physically stronger picked a bottle of wine and smacked Joe on the head.
He immediately followed it u p with another smack on the left eyes and Joe yelled, his deep bogey voice sounded like a thunder rumble.
The pain was excruciating. He felt blood oozing from his eye profusely.
“Bastard!” He cursed.
Jayden picked his gun and pointed it at Joe.
“Okay, Joe your game is up.” Jayden said breathing laboriously. Jane was up and unclad as her clothes were torn off.
“Get dressed Jane.’
“Alright” She said and went for her clothes.
“You will pay for this!” Joe said, making an effort to stop the blood from his eyes.
“I got lots of things to pay for but Fuc**mg with is you is not one. You are nothing but a local street gangster with zero degree sophistication.”
“Zero degree is not a zilch. Ice water is zero degree.”
“That makes you dumber than I thought. In this game, what you need high temperature. Heat melts and not cold you idiot.”
Jane was now dressed up. Jayden still pointed the gun at Joe.
“I am done.” Jane said and eyed Joe. “Joe, I hope you are not hurt.”
“Do not think I will let you go scot free. You better kill me now.”
Jayden shook his head.
“No.” He said. “Killing you will be too nice of me. I want you to live with this pain. I need you to suffer the loss of your eye, feel the pain and the bullet that I will send into your leg. I want you to live with the pain of getting Fuc*ed up by Jane’s boy friend that really enjoyed her body while she lay on the same bed with you and you felt nothing, Lady Joe.”
Jayden fired a shot and a bulled pierced into Joe’s thigh.
“Noooo!” Joe yelled and sagged on his knees.
Joe moved and kicked him, stamped his leg on Joe’s head and the giant growled in pain.
“Check Polosky’s pocket for his car key.” Jayden said and Jane rushed to Polosky’s body which lay in a pool of blood. She searched him and found the car keys and his wallet. She removed the wallet and put in her pocket.
“We must pick their phones.” Jane suggested. “He may make calls to get us.”
“No!” Jayden said. “Leave the phones. I got no time. Let us move.”
They left the room in a hurry. Jayden collected the key made they got into Polosky’s Ford.
Jayden started the car engine.
“Why did you leave I’m alive and with his phone?” Jane wondered. “He will still come after me. I know him.”
“If I kill him, there will be a mess and they will be found eventually. That will lead the police straight to us. Joe needs to be alive to clean the mess. He will call his thugs, he needs treatments and he will make sure they clear the bodies.”
“Whoa! You are not as clownish as I thought.”
“Can you see that Joe a bad luck?” He slid through gear and moved the car . “I would have been away from your bad mouth by now but now I am still with you. Am I really cursed?”
“Shut up and concentrate.”
“She is angry because I thwarted her session with her prince charming.”
“Jeez! You are a swine” She chuckled and then turned to look at him. “Jayden.’
“Ma’am.”
“Thank you for saving my and ….everything.”
He glanced at her and glanced at the silhouette of face.
“You are welcome. I am just doing my job. I am Captain America.”
The strong headlights of the Ford lightened the dark road as he accelerated.
*******

Chapter four

Jane tried to imagine that this was a nightmare like she had the other day. She hoped Jayden would wake her up and tell her food is ready.
Jayden was sprawled on the floor, lying on his stomach. He was moaning in pains and breathing lightly. Joe sent his powerful legs and hit Jayden on the ribs.
“Ouch ” Jayden cried in pain.
“Please leave him out of this!” Jane begged.
Joe swung his hand and smacked her. The hand hit her on the cheek and she blundered unto the wall. Her head hit the wall and she dropped on the floor.
She could hear a part of ringing while another part whined. This was not a nightmare but a deadly reality. This may be her last day on Earth. This was the kind of place Joe loved to attack his victims. A place where screaming meant nothing to him. The only person that may have helped was Jayden and here was he, lying o n the floor in pains.
Devon and Seal stood with their guns in their hands.
Joe lit a cigarette and sat on a sofa. He seemed relaxed and happy.
“I told you Jane that I would get you.” He said confidently. “Bog Joe never misses his targets. I never let my foes go unpunished. I warned you not to Bleep with me but you disrespected me after all that I did for you.” He blew out a thick cloud of smoke. “Polosky is a very important client to me. What you did is tantamount to making me lose him. What would he have cost you to give him what he wanted? You know I do not care about you or your body. But you took his money, and stole from him again and ran away. He was bitter and I promised to amend that relationship. I promise to prove to him that I am not aware of your heist or in support of it. I am an honorable man who sells drugs and the world needs us. The Fuc**mg government are so daft they do not know how we help humanity.
A lot of people are going through traumas, depression and pains. We sell drugs to make them forget their plights. We heal and make them happy again. We stop a lot from suicide but the government won’t appreciate us. They call us drug dealer and some murderfuckers call us criminals.
I will not let anyone deter me or make me doubt my integrity. I will prove to Polosky that my integrity is intact before you get the punishment you deserve.” He inhaled smoke. “Seal, tell Polosky to come inside. The coast is clear.’
Jane felt her nerves fraying and her beat seemed to be the loudest sound in the world. What was he going to do to her?
“You have the effrontery to tell me to let this son-of-a-bitch out of this! This idiot is a fox. He is a cagey bastard but he does not know that when you come to a bar and just pick wines and leave, talk to no girl or anyone, people watch you and get curious.
So I set people on him but he stopped coming there but we have a network. He uses pot and I set boys to watch out. They say he does not allow any trail so I set out to get him myself. When I saw him with Dray who sells pot, I became suspicious because Drey gave him money and weed. After he left, it took just a little threat to make Drey tell me he just bought his caravan.
This is the kind of place someone like Drey would love to live. So I forced him to give me location and here we are. God loves me. I will definitely kill him too” He smiled and that made his face scarier.
Seal came back with Polosky who had a smirk on his face.
“Jane slutty Jane.” Polosky said with the smirk still planted on his face. “We meet again on a good day.” He turned at Joe. “I believe you Joe. You are a man of your word. And who is this? “He looked at Jayden. “The Bleep**ng her, I guess. I hope he will enjoy the show because I am going to fuc* her while he hears her moan.”
Jane burst into tears. There was no need to beg. These were not the type of people who listened to pleas. Plus she could see Polosky staring lustfully at her the bulge between his legs was increasing in size. What a kinky man!
“Get he ready for him.” Joe ordered. Seal and Devon grabbed Jane. She screamed and struggled but they overpowered he. They pinned her to the floor and Polosky removed a knife and tore off her clothes.
“You son-of-a-bitch!” Jane spat on Polosky.
“Now you are making it more romantic.” Polosky said while he laughed. He pulled off his trousers. “I wish your boyfriend was not knocked off so he could watch us.”
Joe kept smoking . He would make sure Sean and Devon also rape her before he killed her.
Polosky lowered himself. Jane saw the fatso lowering himself to mount her. All through her street life, she had never been raped and now, it was this pig that was going to defile her. She stopped struggling and closed her eyes but tears still escaped down her cheeks.
Bang! Bang! Bang
Jane opened her eyes and saw Polosky lying on his back with blood oozing from the back of his head and made a pool of blood which streamed towards her.
Seal and Devon were also lying dead. What happened?

days from now. I am leaving here. I mean leaving New-York and that is like right now.”
She had not expected this. He had not shown a scintilla of sign that he was about to leave here and all of a sudden, he goes out and come to pack?
“Why? I mean it is so sudden?”
He paused and gave her a glance.
“Because I am a gentleman and I want to make you happy. I know you are sick of me and this place so I met a psychologist and sought for her opinion. She said I should sell this place and leave town. Then I should rob a bank and get you money to leave. So what do you expect from a gentle man like me? I did just that and here we are…happy, happy.” He laughed.
“Can you ever stop being an asshole for a second in your life?”
He stopped laughing and gave her a stern look.
“I am sorry I can’t.” He chuckled. “I thought you will appreciate my efforts. I can d anything to make you happy and I just proved that.”
“You are cagey and creepy.”
“I know. That is what the world wants. Be creepy and cagey because the world is full of assholes like me. I don’t even know who invented the word trust when it is just a fantasy word in a cloud cuckoo land. I am an asshole like you, him, her, them and that is how we roll.”
“There are good people out there.”
“Show one to me and he will sign an autograph for me. Good is defined from individual perspective. Only god is good and those who obey his laws. The problem is Jayden has not met any.”
“You are Fuc**mg paranoid.”
“I am Fuc**mg realistic.”
“You are crazy.”
“That is why you need to be happy because this is the last time you will ever see this crazy guy.’
“Please tell me where you are going to?”
“I never asked you where you want to go to all these while you have been trying to steal my money and move. It is not my business and where I go to is none of your business.”
This guy was a difficult person to be with and a part of her was glad that she was parting with him. It just dawned on her that since the first night she told him a few sentences about herself, which was just vague; he never asked her anything about herself. He never even really had a any serious conversation with her except his crazy talks. He did not even try to have sex with her but would talk as if he would rape her if she refused. They will smoke pot and after that, he would get his laptop and start whatever he did. What kind of guy was he?
The only time she saw a serious expression on his face was when he was operating his laptop and it seemed that laptop was his most important possession.
“I don’t know where to go. I just want to leave and keep hustling.’
“I like that.” He said carelessly. “Sometimes it is good to plan not to have any plan and boom! Things happen.”
He was done packing and he lit a stick of pot.
“Let’s have our last pot together. You know where I keep them.”
“I am good. I don’t feel like smoking now.”
“Come on, this is like celebration. We are parting. We were together for fifty three minus fifty two weeks. That is a long time to be together and this will be something for memories.”
“I don’t want to have any memories of you.”
“Okay. As you wish.”
He finished the stick of reefer and lit a cigarette.
“I think I should be off. It was nice meeting you. I strongly advise that you don’t stay more than two days here. I told the new landlord that I will be here for three days and I will drop the key under the doormat. I did not tell him I was leaving tonight. I do not want him to come and meet you here alone except if you are sex starved and need a lay…”
“Shut up!”
He shrugged.
“Just an advice from a gentle man.” He carried his bag and smiled at her. “Please do not forget to lock the door and put the key under the doormat. I will call him in three days and assume you are gone. It was nice meeting you.”
He bowed at her and turned to leave.
She watched him walk out of the bedroom. He was heading straight for the front door.
“Jayden!” she called sharply and she found her heart beating rapidly.
He turned swiftly because he had not expected the call.
“I want to come with you.” She said and she could barely recognize her own voice. It sounded like a sound from a distance apart. What did she just say? Why did she say that? She had money to leave and she could take care of herself once she left here.
He studied her.
“What is going on? It is me Jayden that is leaving. That annoying piece of shit.”
She agreed that he was annoying and it was not fun being with him. Why did she say this? She had not planned to say that but there was something in her that prompted her to. This was the guy who had said the most horrible things to her within the last few days. He was guy that was so rude and none caring.
None caring?
Yes but after everything, there was something about him that attracted her. It was not love. She did not even know what it feels to love a man. It was something that made her feel safe with him. He was crazy and that made her despise him but how she forget that he saved her life? He had waited for her that day at the beer pub just to make her escape because he was smart enough to notice Joe. He did it not because he wanted her for sex or kidnap her. He kept her here, fed her, got clothes for her and now, he got provisions for her and gave her money. He knew she was trying to steal from him but never showed his aggression. He even tried to protect her chastity by warning her to leave before the new caravan owner came. He did not interfere in her life or judge her.
He never tried to take advantage of her and have sex with her. After everything he did for her, she did not thank him and he did not complain. There was something beneath his rudeness and careless attitude. She had never met anyone like him in her entire life.
When he said it was going to be the last time she would see him, she felt something drift out of her. There was fear, sense of loss and loneliness.
“I survived your craziness for a week. I can still bear for more time.”
He shook his head.
‘I am sorry you can’t come with me.” He said. “You don’t shit about me. You don’t even know where I am going or what I am going to do.”
“I don’t care. Please.”
It was at that point the door open after a loud sound of gunfire and someone punched Jayden and he fell on his face.
Jane screamed as she saw the huge man who was her nightmare come in, followed by Devon and Seal: two of his henchmen.
Joe smiled and that was the scariest smile Jane had ever seen.
“I told you Jane.” His thick bogey voice hit her stomach. “I will find you.”
********

Chapter three

Jane opened her eyes and found herself alone on the bed. It took her a few seconds to remember what had happened and where she was. She was a bit drunk last night.
So what happened? She could not remember them having sex.
He had said he wanted to check on something from his system and she fell asleep. So where was he? Did he make love to her while she was asleep?
“Nothing happened.” She heard him say and she turned to see him standing by the doorway. “Seriously, nothing happened.”
Damn! He did not only startle her but he could guess what was going on through her mind and that was annoying.
She saw that his laptop was still on and she remembered that she dreamt and she saw him on the system all through the night. No, it was not a dream. She would open her eyes and see him concentrating on the screen. He did not sleep but kept on operating his laptop and he never even turn to look at her. She did not understand this. He acted like he was really in need of her, and said so many crazy things but he did not touch her or even lie close to her. Who was this unpredictable guy?
“I don’t know what you are talking about.”
“I know but your heart knows what I am talking about. You don’t have to stick your finger in there to check. I hope you had a splendid night.”
“You are disgusting and a minute with you is like a year in hell. Your mouth is rotten so each time you open it, everywhere stinks.”
He chuckled.
“You just made my day with such a compliment. Thank you and before I forget, it is imperative I act like the gentle man that I am. Good morning.” He bowed his head slightly. “Breakfast is ready. There is a toothbrush in the restroom. I got toothpaste ready for you. You can have bath today which Monday. You will have another one on Thursday and wait till Monday before you have another one. I am more economical so I have bath just on Fridays.”
“Who said I will spend a week here?” She smirked. “I don’t want to die of anger. You are so annoying, let that stick. You are very rude and I wonder if any girl can handle you.”
Jayden laughed.
“See who is talking about rudeness. I was the most gentlemen in New-York before I met you. You can testify to that from the moment I met you. I saluted you with all the respect my mom taught me. You ignored me. You were rude and that was when I felt something drift into me. I never knew rudeness was contiguous and airborne until I met you. That was the moment I started saying things I was not used to saying. I did not even know they were rude remarks until you defined them. That is because I was so prim and well mannered I did not even know what rudeness was but you, who was a full blooded rude girl had to let me know. Okay, go and freshen up, breakfast is ready and tell me when you want to leave.”
Leave?
Yes, she wanted to leave at this very moment but she did not have any money and was too scared to leave this place. Joe was enigmatic when it came to underworld. He was also very vindictive and savage.
She would leave but had to plan carefully. This guy did not look like who had any money she could steal.
It was not just about her but she needed to wire money to them again. Though what she sent may last for another one two weeks but Jim was a bit reckless and she did not want him to run out of money which may tempt him to do something stupid.
She got off the bed, went into the restroom, brushed her teeth and had a bath. They had breakfast.
She spent the next one week without leaving the caravan. He would go out and get groceries. He got three sets of clothes for her but his uncouth remarks would not even let her appreciate him.
Twice she had searched the room after he went out see if she could find any money. She desperately wanted to leave to a place where she could be free to hustle. She could keep hiding for life.
She wondered what he did for a living. He would spend the night on his laptop, sleep after breakfast and go out in the evening to get groceries.
She never saw anyone pay him a visit and he was very cryptic. She had glanced at the screen of his laptop so many times he was working but she never understood the complex looking applications he used.
On that fateful evening, he had come back with bags of provisions, stocked up food in the refrigerator and he did not say a word to her. Knowing he was an unpredictable bloke with protean personality, she had just watched him do his things. When he was done, he looked at her and smiled.
He counted some notes of money and offered it to her.
“You don’t have to try to steal my money.” He said. “You are looking for money to so you can scamper. This is five hundred bucks. I hope this goes into the Guinness Book of Record because I have never given anyone more than fifty dollars in my entire life. I have never owned more than three thousand dollars in my entire life at once. That is how shitty this globe is for me.”
She collected the money without a word; filled with mixed feeling of shame and joy. He knew she had been trying to steal from him but he never acted like he knew. She was also blissful that she had gotten the money to move on. She had to figure out where to move to next.
She could not wait to lie on the bed and start thinking. She would be off first thing in the morning. She wished she had a wig, face mask or something to help her disguise.
She did not thank him and that was not because she was not appreciative. She was flummoxed and did not know what to say.
Jayden did not waste any time after she collected the money or act like he was offended for her lack of show of gratitude. His face was expressionless. He even looked as if he had forgotten that he had given her money.
His next line of actions amazed her. He carried his laptop in a hurry and put in the laptop bag. He looked round and picked some DVD ROMs, probably containing applications, a few personal items and put in a back pack. He put the small laptop bag in the backpack and put on the table.
“What are you doing?” she asked. “I mean why are you doing this?”
“Doing what?”
“Why did you give the money and packing up?”
“I gave you the money because you want to leave and can’t go out to hustle. You can’t keep hiding here. You have three days to leave and there is food to last you three days.”
“Just me?”
“Yeah. I sold the caravan to a friend of mine. Everything in here and he will be coming to take over three days from now. I am leaving here. I mean leaving New-York and that is like right now.”

“I am the sun,” Joe said, “the source of energy for photosynthesis that all depend on. I am the sun and there is nothing hidden under me. I am the all seeing eyes and everything is transparent to me. You can never run away from me, bitch! I told you not Bleep with me, didn’t I?”
“Get out of my house!” The man yelled and made a move but Joe did not hesitate to squeeze the trigger and a bullet went straight bullet went into his chest.”
Jane screamed as she saw the man drop on the floor bleeding profusely as he panted and gasped in pains. He wriggled his body restlessly before he took a last breath.
“No one interferes in my business. Not even the damn NYPD. I am the law, the problem and the solution.” Joe boasted.
Jane was now shivering, her teeth chattered as she saw the dangerous note in his Joe’s eyes.
“Please Joe...”
He did not let finish her words before he kicked her on the ribs, raised his big foot and rammed it on her head. She yelled but knew no one would hear her apart from the killers.
“What did you do to Polosky? What?”
“I am sorry…”
“You are not sorry because I warned you. Now, take this.” He pulled the trigger and shot her legs. The pain was excruciating. She wished he could just shoot her in the head or heart and kill her at once but Joe was not that kind. He wanted her to suffer.
She knew there was no point to beg now. She did not even have the strength to beg. All she felt were pains and agony.
“Goodbye bitch!” She heard him say faintly before a final blast sent her to quietus.


***********


“Hey, wake up.” He said and tapped her and she woke up startled, breathing hard with her eyes looking large. What was going on? Where was she?
“Dinner is served.” The man said and Jane realized that she had fallen asleep and that was a nightmare. Damn! She was alive; he was alive and she was sitting on the sofa. The TV was on and she felt no pain.
“Common, I am famished.” He said and moved to the small dining table. She got up, feeling slightly heavy in her head. She was glad to be alive.
She sat down and saw a big bowl of fried rabbit meat with vegetables, bologna sausage and macaroni. Jane forgot her plights at that moment and pounced on the food.
“What is your name?” She asked as she took a bite of meat.
“Jayden,” he said, “Jayden Rogers.”
“I am Janet .” She said “That was Joe; he was my landlord and boss.”
“Hmmm…I thought otherwise.”
“That is what everyone thinks, otherwise.” She said without looking at him. “I am from Illinois and had to move down to New York. I had no home so I was left on the street.”
She paused. Why was she saying this? She was not the type who told her story. Not even Joe knew the real story behind her life. Maybe she was frustrated, or just needed to let it off her mind. “The street is rough and being a girl, I was vulnerable. I met Joe and he took me into his house. I helped him some stuff..”
“Some stuff?”
“Don’t bother about the details but I did some stuff to survive. He also gave me protection, using my image as his girl and a lot of people thought he was my boyfriend. I also gave that impression.”
Jayden gave her a sharp glance.
“He was not your man… was he your bedmate?”
“Shut up! He never had sex with me.”
“Are you saying he had such a girl like you in his house and he never touched you?”
Jane registered his question. If he was astonished that Joe could keep her without sex, then he would not do the same. This dude was going to take advantage of her and she had no choice.
“Joe can’t do anything. He is castrated and he keeps it a secret and he never told when or why he did it. But he gives the impression that he is able and he sleeps with me.”
“Whoa! That is so awful I can imagine what you went through sleeping on the same bed with such a hunk of beef and you only admire him and end up masturbate…”
“Oh my God! Why are you such a dirty bastard?”
“Did you just say I am dirty?” He frowned. “No one ever said that to me and I am not dirty. I make sure I have a bath at least once a week because I can’t go seven days without a bath and likewise, I can keep wasting water by taking bath every day. Did you know that there places they don’t have enough water? Have you heard about deserts? I am a humanitarian and each time I think of such places, I feel it is unfair to waste water with the unjustified excuse of having a daily bath. Some even go twice pr thrice. That is unfair.”
She eyed him. This guy was so sarcastic and he was pissing her off. Could she stay with him?
He giggled.
“Now she thinks I will smell. No. I use deodorants a lot and if you can’t handle it, use a face mask.” He got up. “I need to get a condom.” He took a few steps and turned to look at her. “By the way, do you know the current cost price of Viagra?”
Jane felt her mouth getting bitter with anger but kept quiet.
“Okay, don’t worry. I will Google it. I have not bought any for a while. The last time I got one was a very long time ago and that was last week.” He walked to the bedroom’
A part of her told her leave. He was not even being diplomatic but very blunt and rude. She got up, moved to the window and peeped. It seemed it was about to rain.
Okay, she would just stay here and letting him have her would be a sacrifice.
He came out from the inner room and smiled happily.
“Good news!” he said excitedly. “I found some leftovers. I know you are happy, right. Come on, let’s go inside.”
Jane felt like sending two bullets into him. She grimaced, and felt too angry to say a word. She walked reluctantly towards the bedroom.
*****

He opened the door and led her into his caravan. He switched on the lights and she saw a small living-room with three sofas, a TV hung on the wall, and the walls were covered with wallpapers. There was a bookshelf by a corner, artworks on the wall and a refrigerator by another side. There was a small dining table with two chairs. There was a door which probably led to a bedroom.
“This does not look like a camping caravan,” she observed.
“No, it is not. This is my home. Home sweet home.”
“You bloody liar! You said you were a billionaire!”
“Do you see any neighbors here? I got that in common with them, plus I am an aspiring billionaire. Sorry, I skipped the word aspiring.”
“You are a jerk! You said you had treasures so what the hell did you stop for? What the hell do you have in here that makes you paranoid?”
He went to the refrigerator and opened it. He dropped the wine inside and gave her a smile.
“I got three frozen chickens in here. I got two bottles of wine, frozen food and these are treasures.”
“You are crazy!”
“Why are you so disappointed? Remember, I did not invite you here. I went out of my way to bring you here. If you don’t appreciate me, or my mansion, you can leave right now. You offered to follow me and gave me that strange kiss.”
She wished she could tell him it was not about him but Joe. She wished she could tell him she did not give a damn about him and the kiss was just an escape route. She felt infuriated that he thought she threw herself at him.
Okay, she did not care if he was a billionaire or not but saying that he was one made her nursed the idea of making something out of him. That was disappointing. But at least he saved her and this place seemed to be the best place for her to hide and plan how to raise money and leave. She wished she could see the slut that had blackmailed her and intended to sell her out so she could strangle her before leaving. She had never committed murder and she did not why killing that slut did not sound like murder to her. This was not a bad place to hide even though she would have to let him have sex with her which she detested already. He would not accept to bring her here for nothing. Men were all assholes.
She frowned.
“Why did you wait for me?” She asked suddenly asked.
“I got a bathroom in case you need to have a bath or pooh.”
“You are vulgar and dirty.”
“Now she acts like she doesn’t do that.”
“You are not a gentleman.”
“I am hungry.” He said. “I need to be in the kitchen. I got rabbit here. That is one good thing about this place. I hunt and get lots of meat for free at the expense of my bullets though.”
He removed meat wrapped in a polyethylene and smiled.
“My life is a treasure with no measure. I have more than the treasures in this refrigerator that might be worth nothing to you but means everything to me so I had to be meticulous. I don’t know what you are up to or why you were running from that big guy. But I know I should have minded my business and left you. That guy is an epitome of a bad guy and you did not just look like a victim but a guilty soul. I still don’t know why I helped you escape but I hope I don’t live to regret this. I just want to say something here….don’t interfere with my business and you will be fine.”
He went out of the room and entered the kitchenette. She puffed out air and sat on a sofa. His words shocked her. He knew Joe was after her and he had deliberately waited for her. Who was this maverick guy leaving in isolation?
“The TV works.” He said aloud from the kitchenette, and she could hear the fusing sound of the meat he fried and the aroma diffused, reminding Jane that she was famished.
She put on the TV but watched vacuously as she plunged deep down her deepest psyche. She had no single dime on her. She did not know where next to go or how to do that. This guy was just another broke bloke. There was something about him she could not understand but she knew he was not going to accommodate her without something in return. What did she have apart from her body? Nothing.
She closed her eyes after a deep sigh. She was just twenty-two years old but felt like she had carried the travails of a sixty year old. She had never left the poverty line nor had a happy time. She was molded into what she was by her childhood and her best moments were when she sold drugs and started stealing.
She made about five hundred dollars a month, had a nice place to sleep and Joe fed her. But she had responsibilities and wanted her grubby, rough road to stop with her and not the innocent teens.
She was in these thoughts when she suddenly heard a loud sound and she opened her eyes abruptly. What was that? She saw the man with the wine run out of the kitchenette and shouted, “Who the hell are you? They are here! What did you do?”
Jane then saw that the door was burst open and Joe stood grimly, holding a gun with two of his deadly men glaring at them.
Joe looked at her and produced a dangerous smile.

“You must be crazy!” Jane said.
She puffed out smoke, twitched her lips and smiled.

“Thank you for the compliment. Craziness is good for me and I will ask you one more time. Give me the money or I will leave this room now and run straight to Joe.”
Jane felt like smacking her on the head with a bottle and send her to quietus but she did not have any bottle and this lady looked rough and pugnacious. She had only two hundred dollars with her and that was her last cash. She needed money to leave and she was now on the run.
“I don’t…”

The lady did not wait for her to finish her sentence but turned to leave.
“Wait!” Jane said and there was a sharp note in her voice.
“I will give you fifty.”
“I gave you a chance……”
“I have just two hundred and I got things to do.”
“With these hips of yours, you will make that amount within two nights. Give it to me all.”

“What?”
“I swear that is my last offer and gesture of kindness.”
Jane realized that she was wasting time. The lady was right. Someone else may have spotted her and could tell Joe. She gave her the money.
“Bitch!” Jane cursed
“Thank you for the compliment.” She said and collected the money, inhaled and exhaled smoke.
Jane walked away, peeped and saw no sign of Joe. She walked across the pub and made for the exit. She turned and saw the lady walking briskly towards the bar.
Jane nearly ran out her skin as she saw that she was going to meet Joe who was sitting on a stool.
She did not wait to see what was happening. She dashed out of the pub and saw the man with wine sitting on a bike.

“You wasted my time.”
She did not expect to see him and never felt more pleased to see anyone. She climbed the bike and he rode off. She turned back and saw Joe come out with his thugs.
He did not make any move to come after her but stood like a pole, the silhouette of his face directed at her. She guessed what he was thinking: I will get you, Jane!



Chapter two

Chapter two

He stopped the bike suddenly with a screeching sound that startled Jane. The frosty night was still, with a deadly graveyard silence. The tall trees and thick shrubs made the hummocks bogey. The fear of Joe had made Jane oblivious to the loneliness of the road he rode all these while, plus the effect of the ethanol in her system.
She seemed a little more sober and her greatest fears manifested. She had followed a stranger who was going to probably rape and kill her in this quiet part. Why had she not asked him let her alight? It was probably the fear of Joe.
“Why did you stop here?”
He said nothing, but kept watching the road, listening for any sound. All they could hear was the nocturnal chorus of insects.
“I said why did you stop here?”
He looked at her, his eyes glittering in the darkness from the reflection of the moon.
“I have lots of treasures in my place and I need to make sure no one is following me. You don’t just meet a billionaire and offer to follow him suddenly and he does not take precaution.”
Even though all she saw was his silhouetted figure, the mention of the word ‘billionaire’ made her want to have a clearer look at him again. Was he really a billionaire? Was it her chance to make a major hit and leave?
“You may wonder where I am taking you to. I live down there and you know what? I don’t like neighbors.”
That was a characteristic of billionaires. They never heard neighbors but lived in their world. So he was in disguise or something.
“In case you are wondering, I am not Mark Zuckerberg famous but I am also an IT mogul. You will find out more if you don’t know already. Tell me, were you sent to spy on me?”
“No.” She said a bit more humbled.
“The first time I sat close to you, you acted rudely and like someone talked to you via a transmitter, you suddenly wanted to go home with me and there was a sudden kiss of captivity you gave me…”
“I don’t care who you are but I won’t argue over this. I was not sent to spy on you.” She said and in her mind, she added, but I think I will start that now but for myself. I may hit ten thousand dollars from you and leave.
“Okay, let’s go. The coast seems to be clear.” He said.
He mounted the bike, started the engine, lit a cigarette and rode on. The rest of the journey took less than ten minutes before he stopped the bike.
Janet could not understand what was going on. The place had low grasses that she guessed were green. Tall trees were scattered and made the place a patch of darkness and moonlight. There was no single building except a long caravan that had barb wires fencing it.
“Okay, alight.” He said carelessly, with the cigarette dangling between his lips. He alighted too and pushed the bike towards a small wired gate with thin metal frame. He used a key top unlock the padlock, swung the gate open and pushed the bike inside.
“What are you waiting for? Come in.”
“What?” She frowned. “Where the hell is this?”
He parked the bike by the side of the caravan and moved towards the gate.
“If you won’t come in, then you can leave. I need to close my gate.”
“Is this your house?”
“Now she acts like she has never seen someone living in a caravan.”
She walked in and he locked the gate.
“You said you were a billionaire!”
“Billionaires love adventures and camping is one.” He said as he walked towards the floor and unlocked it. “Not all of us are flashy. Don’t you see how Mark Zuckerberg dresses? That T-shirt of his does not portray a billionaire.”
Was this guy serious? She wondered.

Polosky must have told him what she did and she had not bothered to go back to pick her things from his house which substantiated that she was guilty of whatever he told him.
She began to shiver but tried to calm her frayed nerves. What was going to happen to her? Did he come to look for her?

Damn! She looked round the busy pub and felt the red lights may not hide her from him.
She looked at the man who had bought wine.
“Hey! Take me home.” She said in a flummoxed state. She did not know if she was taking the right step but anything was better than being caught by Joe.
She had seen him torture and kill those he felt were his enemies. He was ruthless and she regretted ever allowing herself deal with him. But she did it to save herself from the wildness of the street and he was the only one who gave a job where she got the chance to steal to earn more money.
The man looked at her sharply, studying her.

“What the hell are you talking about?” He said, “you never even replied to my salutation and now you…”
“Shut up and take me home.”
“I can’t take you home. I am going to my house.”
“Why are you such a doofus? I mean your home and if you don’t want it, I will look somewhere else.”
The man glanced round the pub and smiled. She saw Joe looking round.
Jeez! He was definitely searching for her. Oh no!

“Come on, let’s go.” The man said all of a sudden and she was a bit surprised. She hoped she was not going for a bigger devil. No, anything was better than Joe.
She nearly screamed as she saw Joe walking towards her direction. He was with two of his henchmen. This was not good!
What was she going to do? She moved and held the man before sending her lips to his. She did not care what he felt about her. She was not even thinking about him but how to escape from this cold blooded killer. He may probably think she was drunk. She was tensed and at point, she lost her nerves and departed from the man, made a quick turn and walked towards the restrooms. She was confused and could not remember if she had ever being more scared in her life. Joe was not the type that would be kind enough to just shoot her at once. He would only do that if he had no chance to take her away to a place he could kill her slowly and that was her greatest fear.

She rushed into the restroom for ladies and got into one of the rooms. She was now breathing harder and very paranoid. She needed to urinate. That was pertinent due to alcohol and fear.
She came out of the room and bumped into a drunken girl who apologized and went into one of the rooms to ease herself. Jane cared less about her. She wondered if she should stay in the restroom until he must probably left. What if he came searching for her? What if she got caught up here?

She remembered the guy with the wine and felt he must have gone. She should have followed him but she lost her nerves. She would not wait here to be shot dead. Maybe going into the crowd was a better idea. She looked into the mirror and saw her crestfallen face. She closed her eyes, wished she could open them to find herself so far away from this trap and fear.

She opened her eyes and cringed. There was a lady directly behind her, dressed in blue skinny gown and had red long hair. Jane who was paranoid and jittery she felt frightened by her sudden appearance and the manner at which she was standing behind her and starring at her.
“Hello sweetie,” the lady said with a roguish smile, “I guess you are hiding from Big Joe.”
Jane turned at her, feeling her heart beat drumming.
“What are you talking about?”
“He is asking after you. His described the girl he is searching for and you are a perfect match.”

“You talk nonsense.”
“You look like someone hiding. I saw how you came in here and that made things add up.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“Because he is still out there looking for you and he does not look happy. Joe does not come here for fun and he seems desperate to find you. I want you to leave without him finding you.”
“What makes you so sure he is looking for me? I don’t even know who the hell Big Joe is?”
“That is so cushy to substantiate. I will go tell him I see a girl who matches his description.”

“Stop the nonsense!”
The lady chuckled.
“Your eyes tell a lot. You are wasting time. Another person may have seen you and may not have a dialogue with you like I am doing.”
“What do you want?”

The lady lit a cigarette.
“I need three hundred bucks and I will delete you from my memory.”

.

I am sorry for the late updates. I try everyday but they end up banning me for twenty-four hours. It's frustrating

******


Clad just in pants and brassieres, the blonde girl swayed her hips coquettishly, trying to synchronize her steps with the music that blared so loud at the beer pub cum strip club in Manhattan. As she walked pass a balding man, the man suddenly pulled her and drew her close to him, said something into her ears and she laughed. The man laughed too and they got up and left.

Jane knew what was going to happen next. No! She never let her body out for prostitution even when she was pressed. She was guilty of pretending to be one just to swindle her victims. As she watched the man grab the blonde’s bum and led her to the inner part where there were rooms, she felt her bile rising. The blond seemed not to care but who knew then things going in her mind? Maybe repulsion; capitulation to financial plight syndrome or just recklessness. Jane felt her body deserved some respect and was not willing to let just any swine have her.

Men! She thought with bitterness. Such animals she detested with a passion. They were megalomaniac, inconsiderate, sadomasochistic, insatiable brutes, untrustworthy and blood sucking vampires!
She took another sip of her beer, knowing she was getting drunk and needed a caution but what else could she do? She just took the last shot and only if they were not there, she would have taken her life and leave this grubby inferno called world.

Maybe that hiatus was what she needed. A place where there was nothing and you could feel nothing. Just blank both physically and mentally. Was that what death felt like? Was it true that there was a life after this? Like what the religions talked about. Was paradise and hell real or just a fairy tale? Maybe they were just idiomatic expressions because she felt hell was Earth.

Was there a Supreme Being called God? Damn it! She knew that the beer she drank was real and that was what mattered for now. She took her last shot by messing with Polosky which was tantamount to messing with Joe and she knew it was a miracle she survived his bullet the other day. She could not let that swine have her, not even if she was sex starved. The only way he could have her was by rape and that was going to be a battle. She had already stolen from him and felt there was no need to leave the two hundred dollars. She had sent the money and was left with about two hundred dollars after her paying for dinner and beer.

She would not kill herself. She had to be there for them but definitely she had to leave New York City. It was just a matter of time before Joe or Polosky caught up with her.
Where would be her next destination? For now, she had no plans. Was that part of her major problems? Lack of plans? It had always being about immediate survival and after each move for a survival, there was always another need to survive again and there was never a real long term plan. She did not have any future ambition except as a child; she used to say she wanted to become a banker.

She giggled at herself. That was all fallacy. She could not see herself doing that now. She never even had a qualification. She dropped out of high school and enrolled into street life.
The world was a ball of chaos. A wild life with disorderly people feigning to be bring order. What was the World Order about? There was no such thing like Order. It was a wild ball where the stronger fed on the weaker. Even the lion’s park had leadership order but that could not take away the wildness in them. The order was just the order of the wild life.

So who is going to save the world? Captain America or Spider man? Yes, only Marvel Heroes could do that but not in reality so damn the elites.
She was leaving New York City and that was an ultimate plan. Maybe she would decide where to go and that meant lying low before she gets at least five hundred dollars to leave this zone that is now coded red.
“Hey,” a voice emerged, brought her out of her thoughts and someone sat close to her.
She felt like yelling at him and asking him to give her space before she remembered that this was a club and she did not pay for any space.

She ignored him and took another sip of her beer. She felt like leaving the rest of her beer she could not do that. She paid for them and they must be consumed. Plus, she needed more of the intoxicant. Her head was full of plights and fears and she needed to calm down her nerves. Okay, she knew the plights and fears would still be there after becoming sober but at least she needed that oasis.

She disgorged the remaining content down her throat and felt her head swinging, and something was flowing through her nervous system: something that took away Joe’s macabre image and sent Polosky’s bulldog face into the WC.
“I need it in a pack.” She heard a voice and remembered the man who had come to sit with her. “I said wine.”
She glanced at him. He was probably between twenty seven and twenty nine years old with very dark hair and wore a flat top cut. His swaggering side burns met his low moustache and beards to give a look that made her felt he an Arabian descent. His nose was slightly hooked, and has blue eyes that looked sleepy. His lips were thick and had aggressive masculine jaw that gave him a Spartan façade. He was moderately brawny with suntanned skin.

He covered his white T-shirt with blue denim jacket which he wore over black denim pants.
He collected his wine, paid and got on his feet.
“You got your space back, Suzzy.” He said as he got on his feet. “Enjoy your beer.”
Jane ignored him and wanted to order for another beer when she saw a man come in, flanked by two men and she froze.
He was a few inches above six feet tall. His hair was low cut and brown with a parting at the middle. His eyes were thin and viscous below flat, thick nose. His lips were very thin with a square jaw and slightly large ears.
His chest was stout, showing the result of years of body building and rough housing. His granite hard face wore a stern expression which she knew as one of his characteristics.

He wore black shirt which struggled to fit his muscular body and black denim pants.
Jane had not expected him here tonight and she felt stupid to have come here. That was Joe, her nightmare!

Hello. i am sorry for the late updates. Each time I try to update, the anyi-span whatever ban me for twenty four hours[i][/i]
*****



Clad just in pants and brassieres, the blonde girl swayed her hips coquettishly, trying to synchronize her steps with the music that blared so loud at the beer pub cum strip club in Manhattan. As she walked pass a balding man, the man suddenly pulled her and drew her close to him, said something into her ears and she laughed. The man laughed too and they got up and left.

Jane knew what was going to happen next. No! She never let her body out for prostitution even when she was pressed. She was guilty of pretending to be one just to swindle her victims. As she watched the man grab the blonde’s bum and led her to the inner part where there were rooms, she felt her bile rising. The blond seemed not to care but who knew then things going in her mind? Maybe repulsion; capitulation to financial plight syndrome or just recklessness. Jane felt her body deserved some respect and was not willing to let just any swine have her.

Men! She thought with bitterness. Such animals she detested with a passion. They were megalomaniac, inconsiderate, sadomasochistic, insatiable brutes, untrustworthy and blood sucking vampires!
She took another sip of her beer, knowing she was getting drunk and needed a caution but what else could she do? She just took the last shot and only if they were not there, she would have taken her life and leave this grubby inferno called world.

Maybe that hiatus was what she needed. A place where there was nothing and you could feel nothing. Just blank both physically and mentally. Was that what death felt like? Was it true that there was a life after this? Like what the religions talked about. Was paradise and hell real or just a fairy tale? Maybe they were just idiomatic expressions because she felt hell was Earth.

Was there a Supreme Being called God? Damn it! She knew that the beer she drank was real and that was what mattered for now. She took her last shot by messing with Polosky which was tantamount to messing with Joe and she knew it was a miracle she survived his bullet the other day. She could not let that swine have her, not even if she was sex starved. The only way he could have her was by rape and that was going to be a battle. She had already stolen from him and felt there was no need to leave the two hundred dollars. She had sent the money and was left with about two hundred dollars after her paying for dinner and beer.

She would not kill herself. She had to be there for them but definitely she had to leave New York City. It was just a matter of time before Joe or Polosky caught up with her.
Where would be her next destination? For now, she had no plans. Was that part of her major problems? Lack of plans? It had always being about immediate survival and after each move for a survival, there was always another need to survive again and there was never a real long term plan. She did not have any future ambition except as a child; she used to say she wanted to become a banker.

She giggled at herself. That was all fallacy. She could not see herself doing that now. She never even had a qualification. She dropped out of high school and enrolled into street life.
The world was a ball of chaos. A wild life with disorderly people feigning to be bring order. What was the World Order about? There was no such thing like Order. It was a wild ball where the stronger fed on the weaker. Even the lion’s park had leadership order but that could not take away the wildness in them. The order was just the order of the wild life.

So who is going to save the world? Captain America or Spider man? Yes, only Marvel Heroes could do that but not in reality so damn the elites.
She was leaving New York City and that was an ultimate plan. Maybe she would decide where to go and that meant lying low before she gets at least five hundred dollars to leave this zone that is now coded red.
“Hey,” a voice emerged, brought her out of her thoughts and someone sat close to her.
She felt like yelling at him and asking him to give her space before she remembered that this was a club and she did not pay for any space.

She ignored him and took another sip of her beer. She felt like leaving the rest of her beer she could not do that. She paid for them and they must be consumed. Plus, she needed more of the intoxicant. Her head was full of plights and fears and she needed to calm down her nerves. Okay, she knew the plights and fears would still be there after becoming sober but at least she needed that oasis.

She disgorged the remaining content down her throat and felt her head swinging, and something was flowing through her nervous system: something that took away Joe’s macabre image and sent Polosky’s bulldog face into the WC.
“I need it in a pack.” She heard a voice and remembered the man who had come to sit with her. “I said wine.”
She glanced at him. He was probably between twenty seven and twenty nine years old with very dark hair and wore a flat top cut. His swaggering side burns met his low moustache and beards to give a look that made her felt he an Arabian descent. His nose was slightly hooked, and has blue eyes that looked sleepy. His lips were thick and had aggressive masculine jaw that gave him a Spartan façade. He was moderately brawny with suntanned skin.

He covered his white T-shirt with blue denim jacket which he wore over black denim pants.
He collected his wine, paid and got on his feet.
“You got your space back, Suzzy.” He said as he got on his feet. “Enjoy your beer.”
Jane ignored him and wanted to order for another beer when she saw a man come in, flanked by two men and she froze.
He was a few inches above six feet tall. His hair was low cut and brown with a parting at the middle. His eyes were thin and viscous below flat, thick nose. His lips were very thin with a square jaw and slightly large ears.
His chest was stout, showing the result of years of body building and rough housing. His granite hard face wore a stern expression which she knew as one of his characteristics.

He wore black shirt which struggled to fit his muscular body and black denim pants.
Jane had not expected him here tonight and she felt stupid to have come here. That was Joe, her nightmare!

Clad just in pants and brassieres, the blonde girl swayed her hips coquettishly, trying to synchronize her steps with the music that blared so loud at the beer pub cum strip club in Manhattan. As she walked pass a balding man, the man suddenly pulled her and drew her close to him, said something into her ears and she laughed. The man laughed too and they got up and left.

Jane knew what was going to happen next. No! She never let her body out for prostitution even when she was pressed. She was guilty of pretending to be one just to swindle her victims. As she watched the man grab the blonde’s bum and led her to the inner part where there were rooms, she felt her bile rising. The blond seemed not to care but who knew then things going in her mind? Maybe repulsion; capitulation to financial plight syndrome or just recklessness. Jane felt her body deserved some respect and was not willing to let just any swine have her.

Men! She thought with bitterness. Such animals she detested with a passion. They were megalomaniac, inconsiderate, sadomasochistic, insatiable brutes, untrustworthy and blood sucking vampires!
She took another sip of her beer, knowing she was getting drunk and needed a caution but what else could she do? She just took the last shot and only if they were not there, she would have taken her life and leave this grubby inferno called world.

Maybe that hiatus was what she needed. A place where there was nothing and you could feel nothing. Just blank both physically and mentally. Was that what death felt like? Was it true that there was a life after this? Like what the religions talked about. Was paradise and hell real or just a fairy tale? Maybe they were just idiomatic expressions because she felt hell was Earth.

Was there a Supreme Being called God? Damn it! She knew that the beer she drank was real and that was what mattered for now. She took her last shot by messing with Polosky which was tantamount to messing with Joe and she knew it was a miracle she survived his bullet the other day. She could not let that swine have her, not even if she was sex starved. The only way he could have her was by rape and that was going to be a battle. She had already stolen from him and felt there was no need to leave the two hundred dollars. She had sent the money and was left with about two hundred dollars after her paying for dinner and beer.

She would not kill herself. She had to be there for them but definitely she had to leave New York City. It was just a matter of time before Joe or Polosky caught up with her.
Where would be her next destination? For now, she had no plans. Was that part of her major problems? Lack of plans? It had always being about immediate survival and after each move for a survival, there was always another need to survive again and there was never a real long term plan. She did not have any future ambition except as a child; she used to say she wanted to become a banker.

She giggled at herself. That was all fallacy. She could not see herself doing that now. She never even had a qualification. She dropped out of high school and enrolled into street life.
The world was a ball of chaos. A wild life with disorderly people feigning to be bring order. What was the World Order about? There was no such thing like Order. It was a wild ball where the stronger fed on the weaker. Even the lion’s park had leadership order but that could not take away the wildness in them. The order was just the order of the wild life.

So who is going to save the world? Captain America or Spider man? Yes, only Marvel Heroes could do that but not in reality so damn the elites.
She was leaving New York City and that was an ultimate plan. Maybe she would decide where to go and that meant lying low before she gets at least five hundred dollars to leave this zone that is now coded red.
“Hey,” a voice emerged, brought her out of her thoughts and someone sat close to her.
She felt like yelling at him and asking him to give her space before she remembered that this was a club and she did not pay for any space.

She ignored him and took another sip of her beer. She felt like leaving the rest of her beer she could not do that. She paid for them and they must be consumed. Plus, she needed more of the intoxicant. Her head was full of plights and fears and she needed to calm down her nerves. Okay, she knew the plights and fears would still be there after becoming sober but at least she needed that oasis.

She disgorged the remaining content down her throat and felt her head swinging, and something was flowing through her nervous system: something that took away Joe’s macabre image and sent Polosky’s bulldog face into the WC.
“I need it in a pack.” She heard a voice and remembered the man who had come to sit with her. “I said wine.”
She glanced at him. He was probably between twenty seven and twenty nine years old with very dark hair and wore a flat top cut. His swaggering side burns met his low moustache and beards to give a look that made her felt he an Arabian descent. His nose was slightly hooked, and has blue eyes that looked sleepy. His lips were thick and had aggressive masculine jaw that gave him a Spartan façade. He was moderately brawny with suntanned skin.

He covered his white T-shirt with blue denim jacket which he wore over black denim pants.
He collected his wine, paid and got on his feet.
“You got your space back, Suzzy.” He said as he got on his feet. “Enjoy your beer.”
Jane ignored him and wanted to order for another beer when she saw a man come in, flanked by two men and she froze.
He was a few inches above six feet tall. His hair was low cut and brown with a parting at the middle. His eyes were thin and viscous below flat, thick nose. His lips were very thin with a square jaw and slightly large ears.
His chest was stout, showing the result of years of body building and rough housing. His granite hard face wore a stern expression which she knew as one of his characteristics.

He wore black shirt which struggled to fit his muscular body and black denim pants.
Jane had not expected him here tonight and she felt stupid to have come here. That was Joe, her nightmare!
Polosky must have told him what she did and she had not bothered to go back to pick her things from his house which substantiated that she was guilty of whatever he told him.
She began to shiver but tried to calm her frayed nerves. What was going to happen to her? Did he come to look for her?

Damn! She looked round the busy pub and felt the red lights may not hide her from him.
She looked at the man who had bought wine.
“Hey! Take me home.” She said in a flummoxed state. She did not know if she was taking the right step but anything was better than being caught by Joe.
She had seen him torture and kill those he felt were his enemies. He was ruthless and she regretted ever allowing herself deal with him. But she did it to save herself from the wildness of the street and he was the only one who gave a job where she got the chance to steal to earn more money.
The man looked at her sharply, studying her.

“What the hell are you talking about?” He said, “you never even replied to my salutation and now you…”
“Shut up and take me home.”
“I can’t take you home. I am going to my house.”
“Why are you such a doofus? I mean your home and if you don’t want it, I will look somewhere else.”
The man glanced round the pub and smiled. She saw Joe looking round.
Jeez! He was definitely searching for her. Oh no!

“Come on, let’s go.” The man said all of a sudden and she was a bit surprised. She hoped she was not going for a bigger devil. No, anything was better than Joe.
She nearly screamed as she saw Joe walking towards her direction. He was with two of his henchmen. This was not good!
What was she going to do? She moved and held the man before sending her lips to his. She did not care what he felt about her. She was not even thinking about him but how to escape from this cold blooded killer. He may probably think she was drunk. She was tensed and at point, she lost her nerves and departed from the man, made a quick turn and walked towards the restrooms. She was confused and could not remember if she had ever being more scared in her life. Joe was not the type that would be kind enough to just shoot her at once. He would only do that if he had no chance to take her away to a place he could kill her slowly and that was her greatest fear.

She rushed into the restroom for ladies and got into one of the rooms. She was now breathing harder and very paranoid. She needed to urinate. That was pertinent due to alcohol and fear.
She came out of the room and bumped into a drunken girl who apologized and went into one of the rooms to ease herself. Jane cared less about her. She wondered if she should stay in the restroom until he must probably left. What if he came searching for her? What if she got caught up here?

She remembered the guy with the wine and felt he must have gone. She should have followed him but she lost her nerves. She would not wait here to be shot dead. Maybe going into the crowd was a better idea. She looked into the mirror and saw her crestfallen face. She closed her eyes, wished she could open them to find herself so far away from this trap and fear.

She opened her eyes and cringed. There was a lady directly behind her, dressed in blue skinny gown and had red long hair. Jane who was paranoid and jittery she felt frightened by her sudden appearance and the manner at which she was standing behind her and starring at her.
“Hello sweetie,” the lady said with a roguish smile, “I guess you are hiding from Big Joe.”
Jane turned at her, feeling her heart beat drumming.
“What are you talking about?”
“He is asking after you. His described the girl he is searching for and you are a perfect match.”

“You talk nonsense.”
“You look like someone hiding. I saw how you came in here and that made things add up.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“Because he is still out there looking for you and he does not look happy. Joe does not come here for fun and he seems desperate to find you. I want you to leave without him finding you.”
“What makes you so sure he is looking for me? I don’t even know who the hell Big Joe is?”
“That is so cushy to substantiate. I will go tell him I see a girl who matches his description.”

“Stop the nonsense!”
The lady chuckled.
“Your eyes tell a lot. You are wasting time. Another person may have seen you and may not have a dialogue with you like I am doing.”
“What do you want?”

The lady lit a cigarette.
“I need three hundred bucks and I will delete you from my memory.”
“You must be crazy!”
She puffed out smoke, twitched her lips and smiled.

“Thank you for the compliment. Craziness is good for me and I will ask you one more time. Give me the money or I will leave this room now and run straight to Joe.”
Jane felt like smacking her on the head with a bottle and send her to quietus but she did not have any bottle and this lady looked rough and pugnacious. She had only two hundred dollars with her and that was her last cash. She needed money to leave and she was now on the run.
“I don’t…”

The lady did not wait for her to finish her sentence but turned to leave.
“Wait!” Jane said and there was a sharp note in her voice.
“I will give you fifty.”
“I gave you a chance……”
“I have just two hundred and I got things to do.”
“With these hips of yours, you will make that amount within two nights. Give it to me all.”

“What?”
“I swear that is my last offer and gesture of kindness.”
Jane realized that she was wasting time. The lady was right. Someone else may have spotted her and could tell Joe. She gave her the money.
“Bitch!” Jane cursed
“Thank you for the compliment.” She said and collected the money, inhaled and exhaled smoke.
Jane walked away, peeped and saw no sign of Joe. She walked across the pub and made for the exit. She turned and saw the lady walking briskly towards the bar.
Jane nearly ran out her skin as she saw that she was going to meet Joe who was sitting on a stool.
She did not wait to see what was happening. She dashed out of the pub and saw the man with wine sitting on a bike.

“You wasted my time.”
She did not expect to see him and never felt more pleased to see anyone. She climbed the bike and he rode off. She turned back and saw Joe come out with his thugs.
He did not make any move to come after her but stood like a pole, the silhouette of his face directed at her. She guessed what he was thinking: I will get you, Jane!

Clad just in pants and brassieres, the blonde girl swayed her hips coquettishly, trying to synchronize her steps with the music that blared so loud at the beer pub cum strip club in Manhattan. As she walked pass a balding man, the man suddenly pulled her and drew her close to him, said something into her ears and she laughed. The man laughed too and they got up and left.

Jane knew what was going to happen next. No! She never let her body out for prostitution even when she was pressed. She was guilty of pretending to be one just to swindle her victims. As she watched the man grab the blonde’s bum and led her to the inner part where there were rooms, she felt her bile rising. The blond seemed not to care but who knew then things going in her mind? Maybe repulsion; capitulation to financial plight syndrome or just recklessness. Jane felt her body deserved some respect and was not willing to let just any swine have her.

Men! She thought with bitterness. Such animals she detested with a passion. They were megalomaniac, inconsiderate, sadomasochistic, insatiable brutes, untrustworthy and blood sucking vampires!
She took another sip of her beer, knowing she was getting drunk and needed a caution but what else could she do? She just took the last shot and only if they were not there, she would have taken her life and leave this grubby inferno called world.

Maybe that hiatus was what she needed. A place where there was nothing and you could feel nothing. Just blank both physically and mentally. Was that what death felt like? Was it true that there was a life after this? Like what the religions talked about. Was paradise and hell real or just a fairy tale? Maybe they were just idiomatic expressions because she felt hell was Earth.

Was there a Supreme Being called God? Damn it! She knew that the beer she drank was real and that was what mattered for now. She took her last shot by messing with Polosky which was tantamount to messing with Joe and she knew it was a miracle she survived his bullet the other day. She could not let that swine have her, not even if she was sex starved. The only way he could have her was by rape and that was going to be a battle. She had already stolen from him and felt there was no need to leave the two hundred dollars. She had sent the money and was left with about two hundred dollars after her paying for dinner and beer.

She would not kill herself. She had to be there for them but definitely she had to leave New York City. It was just a matter of time before Joe or Polosky caught up with her.
Where would be her next destination? For now, she had no plans. Was that part of her major problems? Lack of plans? It had always being about immediate survival and after each move for a survival, there was always another need to survive again and there was never a real long term plan. She did not have any future ambition except as a child; she used to say she wanted to become a banker.

She giggled at herself. That was all fallacy. She could not see herself doing that now. She never even had a qualification. She dropped out of high school and enrolled into street life.
The world was a ball of chaos. A wild life with disorderly people feigning to be bring order. What was the World Order about? There was no such thing like Order. It was a wild ball where the stronger fed on the weaker. Even the lion’s park had leadership order but that could not take away the wildness in them. The order was just the order of the wild life.

So who is going to save the world? Captain America or Spider man? Yes, only Marvel Heroes could do that but not in reality so damn the elites.
She was leaving New York City and that was an ultimate plan. Maybe she would decide where to go and that meant lying low before she gets at least five hundred dollars to leave this zone that is now coded red.
“Hey,” a voice emerged, brought her out of her thoughts and someone sat close to her.
She felt like yelling at him and asking him to give her space before she remembered that this was a club and she did not pay for any space.

She ignored him and took another sip of her beer. She felt like leaving the rest of her beer she could not do that. She paid for them and they must be consumed. Plus, she needed more of the intoxicant. Her head was full of plights and fears and she needed to calm down her nerves. Okay, she knew the plights and fears would still be there after becoming sober but at least she needed that oasis.

She disgorged the remaining content down her throat and felt her head swinging, and something was flowing through her nervous system: something that took away Joe’s macabre image and sent Polosky’s bulldog face into the WC.
“I need it in a pack.” She heard a voice and remembered the man who had come to sit with her. “I said wine.”
She glanced at him. He was probably between twenty seven and twenty nine years old with very dark hair and wore a flat top cut. His swaggering side burns met his low moustache and beards to give a look that made her felt he an Arabian descent. His nose was slightly hooked, and has blue eyes that looked sleepy. His lips were thick and had aggressive masculine jaw that gave him a Spartan façade. He was moderately brawny with suntanned skin.

He covered his white T-shirt with blue denim jacket which he wore over black denim pants.
He collected his wine, paid and got on his feet.
“You got your space back, Suzzy.” He said as he got on his feet. “Enjoy your beer.”
Jane ignored him and wanted to order for another beer when she saw a man come in, flanked by two men and she froze.
He was a few inches above six feet tall. His hair was low cut and brown with a parting at the middle. His eyes were thin and viscous below flat, thick nose. His lips were very thin with a square jaw and slightly large ears.
His chest was stout, showing the result of years of body building and rough housing. His granite hard face wore a stern expression which she knew as one of his characteristics.

He wore black shirt which struggled to fit his muscular body and black denim pants.
Jane had not expected him here tonight and she felt stupid to have come here. That was Joe, her nightmare!
Polosky must have told him what she did and she had not bothered to go back to pick her things from his house which substantiated that she was guilty of whatever he told him.
She began to shiver but tried to calm her frayed nerves. What was going to happen to her? Did he come to look for her?

Damn! She looked round the busy pub and felt the red lights may not hide her from him.
She looked at the man who had bought wine.
“Hey! Take me home.” She said in a flummoxed state. She did not know if she was taking the right step but anything was better than being caught by Joe.
She had seen him torture and kill those he felt were his enemies. He was ruthless and she regretted ever allowing herself deal with him. But she did it to save herself from the wildness of the street and he was the only one who gave a job where she got the chance to steal to earn more money.
The man looked at her sharply, studying her.

“What the hell are you talking about?” He said, “you never even replied to my salutation and now you…”
“Shut up and take me home.”
“I can’t take you home. I am going to my house.”
“Why are you such a doofus? I mean your home and if you don’t want it, I will look somewhere else.”
The man glanced round the pub and smiled. She saw Joe looking round.
Jeez! He was definitely searching for her. Oh no!

“Come on, let’s go.” The man said all of a sudden and she was a bit surprised. She hoped she was not going for a bigger devil. No, anything was better than Joe.
She nearly screamed as she saw Joe walking towards her direction. He was with two of his henchmen. This was not good!
What was she going to do? She moved and held the man before sending her lips to his. She did not care what he felt about her. She was not even thinking about him but how to escape from this cold blooded killer. He may probably think she was drunk. She was tensed and at point, she lost her nerves and departed from the man, made a quick turn and walked towards the restrooms. She was confused and could not remember if she had ever being more scared in her life. Joe was not the type that would be kind enough to just shoot her at once. He would only do that if he had no chance to take her away to a place he could kill her slowly and that was her greatest fear.

She rushed into the restroom for ladies and got into one of the rooms. She was now breathing harder and very paranoid. She needed to urinate. That was pertinent due to alcohol and fear.
She came out of the room and bumped into a drunken girl who apologized and went into one of the rooms to ease herself. Jane cared less about her. She wondered if she should stay in the restroom until he must probably left. What if he came searching for her? What if she got caught up here?

She remembered the guy with the wine and felt he must have gone. She should have followed him but she lost her nerves. She would not wait here to be shot dead. Maybe going into the crowd was a better idea. She looked into the mirror and saw her crestfallen face. She closed her eyes, wished she could open them to find herself so far away from this trap and fear.

She opened her eyes and cringed. There was a lady directly behind her, dressed in blue skinny gown and had red long hair. Jane who was paranoid and jittery she felt frightened by her sudden appearance and the manner at which she was standing behind her and starring at her.
“Hello sweetie,” the lady said with a roguish smile, “I guess you are hiding from Big Joe.”
Jane turned at her, feeling her heart beat drumming.
“What are you talking about?”
“He is asking after you. His described the girl he is searching for and you are a perfect match.”

“You talk nonsense.”
“You look like someone hiding. I saw how you came in here and that made things add up.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“Because he is still out there looking for you and he does not look happy. Joe does not come here for fun and he seems desperate to find you. I want you to leave without him finding you.”
“What makes you so sure he is looking for me? I don’t even know who the hell Big Joe is?”
“That is so cushy to substantiate. I will go tell him I see a girl who matches his description.”

“Stop the nonsense!”
The lady chuckled.
“Your eyes tell a lot. You are wasting time. Another person may have seen you and may not have a dialogue with you like I am doing.”
“What do you want?”

The lady lit a cigarette.
“I need three hundred bucks and I will delete you from my memory.”
“You must be crazy!”
She puffed out smoke, twitched her lips and smiled.

“Thank you for the compliment. Craziness is good for me and I will ask you one more time. Give me the money or I will leave this room now and run straight to Joe.”
Jane felt like smacking her on the head with a bottle and send her to quietus but she did not have any bottle and this lady looked rough and pugnacious. She had only two hundred dollars with her and that was her last cash. She needed money to leave and she was now on the run.
“I don’t…”

The lady did not wait for her to finish her sentence but turned to leave.
“Wait!” Jane said and there was a sharp note in her voice.
“I will give you fifty.”
“I gave you a chance……”
“I have just two hundred and I got things to do.”
“With these hips of yours, you will make that amount within two nights. Give it to me all.”

“What?”
“I swear that is my last offer and gesture of kindness.”
Jane realized that she was wasting time. The lady was right. Someone else may have spotted her and could tell Joe. She gave her the money.
“Bitch!” Jane cursed
“Thank you for the compliment.” She said and collected the money, inhaled and exhaled smoke.
Jane walked away, peeped and saw no sign of Joe. She walked across the pub and made for the exit. She turned and saw the lady walking briskly towards the bar.
Jane nearly ran out her skin as she saw that she was going to meet Joe who was sitting on a stool.
She did not wait to see what was happening. She dashed out of the pub and saw the man with wine sitting on a bike.

“You wasted my time.”
She did not expect to see him and never felt more pleased to see anyone. She climbed the bike and he rode off. She turned back and saw Joe come out with his thugs.
He did not make any move to come after her but stood like a pole, the silhouette of his face directed at her. She guessed what he was thinking: I will get you, Jane!