₦airaland Forum

45

Chief Enwereji

I looked at her. Looking at her hurt.

Why wouldn't it hurt when it's my fault that's she's in this unfortunate condition right now. I blinked back the tears so eager to break free from my eyes as I stared in pain at what had become of my beloved wife.
Whoever said a man shouldn't cry for any reason had never walked a mile in my shoes.

I placed a chair beside her and sat down , like I had done every thursday for the last fifteen years, while she stared out the window. Like always, she had a picture of Tessy-- our deceased youngest daughter-- in her hand. This had been her routine for the past fifteen years. She hadn't said a single word since then. I looked away from her, my heart filled with shame and regret.
If only I could turn back thr hands of time and not allow myself to be ruled by my pride and petty stubbornness. If only I helped Tessy when she came crying to me, her father, for help maybe she wouldn't have died and the love of my life wouldn't be reduced to a shadow of her self.

It all began few months after the news of Tessy's death reached us. That was a very painful period in our lives. I remember one of those days, my beautiful Amarachi (wife) had almost committed suicide. She had taken an overdose of sleeping pills and if one of the housekeepers had found her unconscious body in time, we might have lost her. When she finally woke up in the hospital and found out that she was rescued, she rained curses on me for saving her when I refused to save our daughter. She despised me with everything in her and to be honest, I didn't blame her at all. I despised myself even more, but still that wasn't enough to teach me a lesson. In my pettiness, I blamed that good for nothing fellow that brainwashed and took my daughter away from me instead of myself for not offering the I should have as a father, all because I wanted to prove a  point. While my wife was still recuperating in the hospital, I went with the police to arrest the devil's incarnate but was painfully disappointed when I heard he had fled even before Tessy's demise. The fool had left my poor daughter to fend for his bastard for by herself. That made me transfer the hatred of the father to the offspring. It took everything in me to not blast my pump-action at the devil's spawn when his useless paternal grandmother brought him here that day.

After my beautiful Amarachi got discharged from the hospital, she seemed herself again. She was no longer bitter and began to associate with other members of the family, myself included. Everyone was awestruck at this sudden development. We thought she was on some happy pills or something like that but when we --my daughters and I--secretly searched her room, we found nothing. Even when the doctor came for a checkup, I instructed him to discreetly carry out a drug test on her and her blood came out clean. It was very suspicious how quick she seemed to have moved on considering the way she loved Tessy. She loved all of us quite alright but with Tessy it was different. Tessy was her own person. They were so alike in almost everything-- resemblance, speech, gestures. They gave life to the saying "Cut from the same cloth". That's why it was hard to believe she's really moved on but in the absence of anything indicating otherwise, I accepted it as it was and boy, was I glad. For a while we became a happy family again.

My fears came knocking back when one Saturday morning. I was watching the business news on my ipad while sitting out in the garden enjoying the fresh breeze when Debbie, my second daughter, came running to me. I remember I almost dropped my ipad out of shock due to how sudden she approached me. Not even minding the shock on my face,  she urged me to follow her. She literally dragged me inside the house, ignoring all my questions.
She took me to Tessy's room  the door was slightly open and my wife was there conversing and laughing with someone. Curious and a bit amused seeing this jovial side of her again, I slightly opened the door a bit wider so I could have a better view of who she was talking to but instead I got the shock of my life. There was no one else in the room with her. Ah! It tore my heart to shreds seeing her like that. I didnt even know when tears started rolling down my cheeks. I slowly walked inside in the room, sat down beside her and hugged her while crying.

"Honey, what's wrong?", she had asked. "Why are you crying, even in front of your daughter? Tes ask your dad what the matter is".

Hearing that last part, I cried even harder. I was so distraught and lost on what to do. I was advised to send her to a mental institution and that's how we got here.
She's been here for the past seventeen years and in fifteen of them, she's been like this.

A knock at the door, pulled me back to the present and hurriedly wiped the tears from my eyes.

"Excuse me  Sir", my P.A said as he got in.
"Its almost time for the meeting with the CEO of RDK.

"Oh okay", I said while looking at my wife. I pecked her cheek and stood up to go.
__________________________________________

For sometime now, business had been quite slow. The recession in 2016 really had a toll on Enwereji automobiles. Just in 2014, we began preparations for manufacturing our own car assembly plant where we would start making our own cars.
To source funds, I listed the company on the NSE, sold shares to the public and took out some enormous loans from the bank.
I was so sure of this venture to be insanely profitable everything starts running but I was in for a huge surprise. The recession hit us hard and as if that wasn't enough, the pandemic came too. The naira fell lower to the dollar and costs of everything skyrocketed. I got knee deep in debts, even the banks didn't see me as credit worthy anymore. It was like a button for destruction was switched on against me-- everything just seemed to be going south. Even friends couldn't come through for me any longer. I had to offer more shares to the public to try and get more funds but it did little to help. Our stock prices were already plummeting. That was when RDK stepped in, a light in the dark tunnel I was in. They already had a chunk of our shares, about 3.5%, so when they called requesting to meet, I jumped at the offer.

I had my P.A conduct some research on them when I noticed the rate at which they were purchasing our shares. It turned out they were a very successful private investment firm with interests in almost every field-- business, agriculture, banking, food, sports, tech. They were valued at $50bn. They have their headquarters in California US, where they have most of their operations. When I met with their COO, he explained their interest in my own company. They are looking to spread their roots to Africa and suggested that investing in the rise of one of the foremost car production cars in Africa's largest country was the best route to take. They asked for an honest take on the current state of things and I told them the truth.
They offered to help me with a loan of $500m on one condition, which was that I use my personal shares as collateral if I wasn't able to pull it off. A very risky proposition but one I couldn't refuse. This company was started by my great grandfather and had been successful through the generations. It wouldn't be on my own watch that it would collapse. God forbid!!
I accepted and now, I'm on my way to finalize the loan process. I would be meeting the CEO for the first time there.

We arrived at the fifty storey complex of RDK and were led to the board where we met some people.

"Good afternoon, Chief. You're welcome", the COO greeted with a handshake. The others followed too.

"Afternoon", I replied. "So, is everything set? Where's the CEO?", I asked a bit impatiently.

"He's on his way here now", the COO replied and just on cue, the doors to the boardroom opened and dashing young man entered. In my mind, I hoped this young man who looked to be in his late forties wasn't the CEO. It would be some what shameful on my part. I'm borrowing from someone that could pass as my son.
Another thing was that I couldn't help but notice that he looked a bit familiar.

"I'm so sorry for the delay, Chief", he said as he walked up to me with a hand stretched out. He oozed of confidence and that rattled me a bit.

"I'm Richard and I'm the CEO of RDK holdings"........TBC

44

Mia

I stared at my phone for the thousandth time this night. I had been doing it anytime I heard the notification chime, rushing to see if K had sent an apology text or something like that but nothing so far.

"Okay, you need to chill right now", G said snatching my phone.

"Excuse you?", I spat out in disdain at her sudden action.

"No, excuse you", she shot back. "You've been looking at your phone like some psychotic b**ch trying to summon the spirit of her dead lover". What!!! She did not just say that, did she? I stared at her intensely and she replied with a look of her own too and then we just burst out in laughter.

"Okay, I won't lie that was funny", I said in between laughs. "Summon my dead lover? You're just mad".

"I know right", she laughed. "I don't even know how I came up with that. Good to see you laughing again though", she smiled at me.

"Thank you", I replied, smiling a little.

After the debacle at the restaurant, I was feeling really bad and just wanted to drown myself in liquor. I was about getting into the car when I heard Gina call my name. She persuaded me against drinking and suggested we go to hers and chill out instead. That's how I ended up here and to be honest, I'm glad I did. I'd put off that wild lifestyle after mum passed and I met K. Getting to know him and like him, I wanted to become someone he would be happy to be with. I just wanted to impress him, get him to like me. I wanted his validation, that's how much I liked him..love him. That's why it hurt so much that the same person that made me want to be better is the same person that almost made me return back to that life. It really hurts.

"I don't know what to do G", I said sadly. "I love him, G, too much that it's no longer healthy but I can't help it. It's like my whole being is ignoring my brain and acting on it's own whenever to comes to K and that's what hurts the most because I feel the end is coming."

"End? What do you mean end?", G asked confused. "Your relationship is barely four months old"

"I know", I sighed. "Its just that lately, we've.. we've been kinda distant. Since he got promoted and believe me, I'm very happy for him, just that since then we barely have enough time for each other. I didn't let that get to me though, I sort of moved in with him to breach that gap but still it seemed like it still wasn't enough. Then Nonye came back and we started fighting all the time. It just feels like we're slowly growing apart, you know", I said sadly. I had been having this fear for a while now but this was the first time I was saying out loud.

"Nah", G replied shaking her head. "Look, I'm not in any way trying to trivialise or make little of how you're feeling now but you're wrong Mia. You're just way in over your head", she said and shifted closer to hold me.

"Look", she began and sighed. "The way I see it, I feel like K is the one person you've loved this much after your parents and seeing as your mum's gone and your dad's not usually around, you've had this preconceived belief that everyone you love eventually leaves you. Hey, I'm not trying to make you feel bad or anything, I'm your friend and I'll never tell you a lie", she said softly and I just stared at her, tears pooling in my eyes.

"That's nonsense", I retorted, shifting away from her and drying my eyes.

"Its not, Mia", she replied calmly. "And somehow, I know this because you tend to push people away from you when you start liking them so you don't get hurt if they leave. And now, you're doing the same thing to K.

"Bullsh*t", I spat out, angrily. "If that's so true, how is it that you're still around then or Joy or Juliet? Huh?"

"Because we wouldn't let you, Mia", she replied, shifting closer to me again. "Because we wouldn't let you push us away". Now tears were in her eyes too. This time I didnt shift away. I let her hold me as I cried. Everything she said was true, absolutely true but I guess got so used to doing it that I didn't know when it became a part of who I am.

It all began when my parents divorced and we had to relocate back Nigeria where mum was from. I cried and begged my parents to make it work but it was all futile.
I remember those nights, crying in my small closet, my hands on my ears trying to block out the shouts of them fighting,  things breaking. I was just seven and it was a lot for me to take in. Things got much worse when the fight for custody began. It made me believe everything was all my fault.
That was a whole lot of pain and trauma for a seven year old to bear. Since then, I began putting up walls around me. The one time I let my guard down, Caleb came and gave a rough reality check. I felt like I was cursed, like I never deserved to be loved or be happy for long. I started to believe true love was a myth...till I met K.

"Its okay, Mia", G said as she stroked my hair, while in her embrace. "Let it all out", she prompted softly and so I did. I let it all  out, the pent up emotions I've been bottling up over the years.

"Look, Mia", Gina said , adjusting so she could see my face better. "You're beautiful, perfect, strong and you deserve to be loved. You're not cursed or anything so stop feeling like it. Don't let the past mess with your mind, ok?" She said and I nodded. I'm glad she didn't go all those times I kept pushing her away.

"One more thing, K loves you. That boy adores you", she said and I smiled. "No, no, don't smile yet. He loves you but he was a jerk tonight and we won't make it easy for him, got it?"

"Mm-hmm", I nodded and she narrowed her eyes at me.

"I mean it, Mia", she said clearly not believing me. "When he comes begging don't give in too easily".

"Of course", I said but even I couldn't myself.

"I give up on you", Gina sighed, shaking her head and I laughed.

"Thanks alot G", I hugged her. "This really means alot to me".

"You're welcome", she smiled.

"So..you and Dave seemed to be getting along at the restaurant", I said casually as I pulled out from the hug but deep down I was itching to know everything.

"Mm", she shrugged. "I guess you can say that. He's-he's not that bad", she continued and I turned away to smile.

"Uhmm..ok. Do you....you know...like him?", I asked, pushing my luck. Personally, I liked him for her and no, it's not because I want the two of us to be going on double dates and vacations together which by the way, would be a very good idea.

"Uh...Where's that coming from?", she asked and turned away in what I assumed to be an effort to hide her blush.

"Oh my God!!", I exclaimed. "You like him".

"No I don't ", she shot back defensively.

"Yes, you do. You're blushing", I pushed on.

"Black don't blush, Mia", she rolled her eyes.

"Whatever", I said dismissively. "Stop deflecting. Cmon tell me  what do you think of him?" I asked and she sighed. She totally likes him, I know it.

"Well", she started smiling shyly. "I think he's okay. He's a flirt, a big one but he's still okay".

"Awww", I cooed, clapping animatedly. "So,  since you like him, do you think he's someone you can date?"

"One, I never said I like him. Two, date? Really? Cmon Mia, you know I just got out a relationship, a toxic one. I don't think I'm ready for another one..not yet", she said and I smiled, understanding her point.

"True", I agreed.

"Yeah, leaving the matchmaking to me. Speaking of which, I've been chatting with Dave since we got back and-"

"Ooohh", I interrupted her, smiling in a teasing manner.

"Oh, shut up", she smiled, getting my reaction. "Its not like that, he was just concerned about you and explaining how sorry K is. He says he's been moody all evening."

"Oh", I said, looking away.

"Yeah, but let's not worry about that yet", she said getting up.

"Yet? What do you mean yet?" I asked confused but she's was already halfway out the room.

"Pick a movie while I get us some ice cream", she shouted from the hallway.

I wanted to go after her but just dismissed the thought. No need to stress myself when she'll still come back here. I started browsing for nice movies on her Netflix but couldn't just get myself to pick any. Most recommendations were cheesy rom-coms which I so did not need right now. I wanted a movie with a strong female lead that gets to put her man in check. I need all inspiration I can get so as to put up a strong front whenever K comes to apologise.

About thirty minutes gone and I was yet to find the perfect movie that ticks all my boxes. Even worse, G hadn't come up with ice cream since she left. Fed up, I tossed the fire stick remote and got up to go see what was holding her. The movie can wait or even better, she'd help with the selection. I had just barely walked down the hallway when I saw her coming up the stairs....empty handed.

"You wasted all that time and still you're not with the ice cream?" I cried out of frustration.

"Oh, you're here", she said, sounding unaffected by my mood at all. "Let's go down, there's something you should see". She grabbed my hand and started racing down the stairs, not even waiting to hear me out.

"What..wait..where-", I tried to ask but she wasn't listening. What is wrong with her?

"Wait!!!", I screamed and pulled my hand out of her grip forcefully. That got her attention, all right. "What's going on? What do you want me to see?" I asked in a not so raised voice this time.

"You'll see", she smiled reassuringly. "Just trust me". I don't know what made me follow her; whether it was my curiosity or trust.

"I better not regret this if not I kill you", I said as I reluctantly tailed her.

"Yeah yeah", she scoffed and I had to hold myself from giving her a hard knock on her big head. I save it for later if I don't like what she's going to show me.

"Outside?", I asked when G opened the doors. "Are we going out?"

"No, just to the pool", she replied.

"Wait", I stopped. "Don't tell me you brought out here, this late to swim", I asked,  hoping I was wrong if not I would drown her in that pool.

"Just follow me", she sighed. "When did you become such a nag?" She said  a bored look on her face and began walking off.

"Really?", I scoffed but still followed her. As we approached her pool, I could smell a sweet aroma of food and that relaxed me a bit. I couldn't tell the exact food but from the aroma, I'm sure it's going to be delicious.

"Voila!!", G exclaimed and I looked up from my nails I was inspecting at the moment to the most wonderful sight I'd ever seen. Candlelights and roses trailed a path to a table with two chairs just by the pool, soft music playing from a speaker I recognized all too well and the highlight of it all, K with a bouquet of flowers in hand. Where did he even see flowers this late? Stunned, I slowly took in my surroundings as I tried to wrap my head around what was happening. I wasn't still clear if this was real because it was looking like one of the many fantasies I have in my daydream folder.

"H-how?", I muttered as I looked to a smiling Gina beside me.

"Well, uh-", she started before taking a deep sigh. "Remember I told you I've been with Dave since we got back, so we exchanged details on how the both seemed miserable after what happened at the restaurant. That's when Dave came up with this idea".

"Wow", I mumbled, still a bit dazed at what was happening. I couldn't have predicted or expected this, at least not this way.

"He's coming" , G whispered to me and I looked to see K approaching us with quite nervously with the flowers in hand. Aww...he looks so cute.

"I'll leave you guys now. Remember don't go easy on him", she said and left. I turned to face K as he got nearer.

"Uh..h--hi", he stuttered nervously.

"Hi", I replied flatly.

"Uh....y--you look n--nice", he said after a while of uncomfortable silence--for him, not me. I bit my tongue a little to stop myself from bursting into laughter at his statement. A shy and nervy K is quite attractive but he doesn't need to know that.

"I'm wearing Gina's pyjamas", I replied dryly. "What could be so attractive about that".

"Yeah..yeah..you're--you're right", he nodded.

"Wait, so you're saying I'm not attractive?", I continued torturing him.

"No, no that's not...", he tried to explain but then he stopped and sighed.

"I'm sorry Mia", he pleaded softly. "I know you've been hearing this line from me too much lately but I really mean it this time. I was a proper d**k this evening and I'm really sorry about it".

"Yeah, y--you should", I stated, my voice losing that sharo edge it had just moments ago. I could  feel my hard stance softening already. God! I hate that he has this much power over me.

"Yeah, you're right. I got jealous and mad that he was even next to you and that was really selfish of me. See how I reacted just because of few minutes of seeing you with Caleb but then you have to endure the same thing almost everyday with Nonye as my colleague. See Mia, I'm willing to do anything, I'll even apologise to Caleb if you want and-", he paused for a moment, as if trying to gauge the weight of what he was going to say next. He seemed somewhat uncertain about it. Personally, I didn't really care. He already had me with "I got jealous and mad that he was even next to you". What? I like me a bit of jealousy from my man, which girl doesn't?

"Considering everything-", he began. "I think I should quit P.M. It would be fair to d-", he was saying when I shut him up with a kiss. I just couldn't help myself anymore.

"Really, Mia?", I heard G shout from a distance and I smiled, interrupting the kiss for a moment. "You couldn't even hold out for thirty minutes?"

"What's she talking about?", K asked me, looking confused.

"Nothing", I smiled and took his hand in mine. "Now, let's go see what other surprise you've got laid out for me", I said,  taking his hand in mine as we walked to the table.

"So, does this mean you've forgiven me?", he asked shyly and I dragged his cheek a little in a teasing manner. He was just too cute this evening.

"What do you think?", I asked smiling and he smiled back in response.

"Uhm...one more thing", I started and he turned to look at me. "You don't need to quit because of me. I'm a big girl and I can handle myself."

"Really?", he asked surprised.

"Mmhmm", I replied as he drew back one of chairs so I could sit down.

"I love you", he said.

"I love....", I hesitated, looking at his reaction. "A jealous look on you", I completed with a teasing smile and he laughed....TBC

jullyrosy:
Friday abi��

Weekend ma

New, longer and hopefully more interesting update this weekend....God Bless Us all.

jullyrosy:
Moura7 my guy...
How are u?

Lol....I go run from you, this girl.

What do you guys think? Personally, the episode wasn't it for me. I didn't really feel anything and na jully pressure cause am lol.

.

One thing hated more than being wrong is having to apologise for being wrong. That was my situation now as I paced back and forth the length of the hall, pondering if I should hit the doorbell button or not. During the drive over here, I had gone over the apology speech I intended to render but for some reason was finding it hard to execute now that I'm actually here. This is just to apologise to Dave and I'm this nervous; how would I be then, when I have to face Mia? High BP? God forbid!

"This is ridiculous", I said and pressed the bell. I can't be fretting like this over my fellow man. If he accepts my apology fine and if he doesn't, fine too.

"Oh...its you", Dave said, opening the door and going  back inside. He didn't even say if I could come in.

"I guess I'll just let myself in then", I said to myself in a whisper. "Hey man, about this night..", I began. "I was being a selfish pr**k and none of you deserved that. I'm truly sorry".

"Nah, it's all good man", Dave replied coolly, a small smile on his face. Okay, this is not what I expected, not by a long shot. I expected him to hold out a little longer.

"Ar-are you sure? We good?", I asked to be certain and he nodded in affirmation.

"Look, we're all human and we're not perfect. I understand why you acted the way you did tonight and what's even better is that you've realized your mistake and to make things right".

"Yeah, about that", I began slowly. "I'd like to make things right with Mia but I'm not so sure she's going to be as forgiving as you", I said and dumped myself on one of the cushions.

"Oh, surely. That's probably the only thing you've been right about this evening", Dave said and laughed when I picked up a cushion pillow to throw at him. I won't lie though, it was a funny joke.

"Seriously bro, at this moment, I'm willing to do just about anything now just to get her to forgive me. Like anything at all", I said, staring into space.

"Anything?", Dave asked.

"Anything man", I replied.

"Hmm...let's see", Dave sighed and began tapping his chin like someone thinking. "What if she asks you to apologise to Caleb, would you be able to do that?", he asked out of the blue.

"W--why w-would you ask that all of a sudden?", I stuttered, shocked at his question. "Mia wouldn't do that", I added.

"Maybe", he shrugged his shoulders. "But if in a million and one chances she does, would you do it?"

"Is your ego much bigger than your love for her?", Dave asked further, feeling like he was some kind of relationship expert. It pissed me off a little that he was always using my relationship issues to  play therapist but then again, I'm the one that's always bringing my relationship issues to him so I don't really blame him. I blame myself for always having relationship issues. Back to his question, would I rather keep my ego and lose Mia in my life? No, I don't think so. She's everything good in my life right now so if it comes to me apologising to Caleb --which I'm hoping it doesn't-- I would.

"Yeah, I would", I replied quietly.

"Wow", Dave voiced in a whisper. "You really got it bad for her, huh?"

"I'm afraid so", I said, heaving a long sigh.

"What's the time now?", Dave asked.

"Huh....fifteen past 9", I answered after checking on my phone. "Why?"

"I think I have an idea on how you can get Mia to forgive you", he said smiling. "And don't worry, it doesn't involve you apologising to that pr**k, Caleb".......TBC

Jullyrosy!!!!

43

Kk
'10, 9, 7, 8...', I counted down in my mind as we got nearer to our table.
There's this popular take on dealing with anger by patiently having a countdown in your mind before reacting. A lot of people often refer to this tactic as bullsh** and I'm beginning to see why because I've been trying to do that since I discovered Caleb was the one on MY seat, being friendly with MY girlfriend. Maybe this was the Almighty giving me a golden chance to beat the life out of Caleb. I've always wanted to since Mia told of how he manipulated and abused her emotionally.
This might come off as petty or pathetic even, but people who say they can't fight their fellow man because of a girl have never been in love or experienced love like I have. I know because I used to be one of them.

"Be cool, man", Dave whispered to me as if he read my mind before going ahead to claim his seat.

"Babe", Mia said nervously as she stood up. "You're back".

"Mmhmm", I hummed in reply, looking at Caleb who was taking his sweet time while getting up from my seat.

"Hi, we meet again", he said stretching his hand out for a handshake. Even if I missed the pride in his voice, the arrogant smirk on his face which mu fist was itching to wipe off, greatly made up for it.

I almost snubbed his handshake but no matter how angry I was, I didn't have it in me to be rude-- atleast not yet--so I reluctantly stretched my hand to accept the handshake.

"I'm sorry I couldn't introduce myself earlier, my name is-"

"Trust me, no one cares. Now can excuse me? You're in my way and I'd like to have a nice meal with MY girlfriend without any interruptions", I cut him off, not being able to hold myself any longer. He chuckled to hide his embarrassment amidst the silence that had befallen our table as he buttoned his suit.

"Right", he said and chuckled again. "Nice running into you Mimi", he said to her and looked at me with a smile, before leaving.

"Wow", Gina said as I sat down. "So that happened'.

"What was that?", Mia turned to me, looking pissed off.

"What was what?", I replied back with a question like I didn't know what she was talking about. I was getting even more pissed that she was trying to defend  him.

"You didn't have to be like that. That was a bit over the top", she continued.

"Well, forgive me for being rude to your ex boyfriend who was being a jerk by the way, looking at me like he was better than me but of course, I'm the one that was being rude. I guess wearing a thousand dollar suit or being part of the upper class does offer you some exemptions right?" The words came out of my mouth before I knew it and the hurt look on her face further showed that I had messed up.

"Woah woah", Dave intervened, trying to ease the whole situation. "Let's us all calm down and keep quiet before we say things we can't come back from".

"Wow", Mia said softly, her expression very sad. "Classic K, always playing the victim of classism. Well, newsflash babe, the fact that someone was a jerk to you doesn't in any way make it right for you to do same and it has nothing to do with class", she finished and picked up her bag as if she was leaving. Or was she?

"Cmon Mia, you don't have to go?", Dave pleaded as Mia stood up. "We haven't even had our food yet".

"Dave's right, Mia", Gina chipped in but Mia shook her head.

"You guys, don't worry about me. I'll eat when I get home", she smiled at them and left.

"Mia, wait up, I'm coming with you", G called out to Mia seconds after she left our table.

"Are you being serious right now?", Dave voiced his disappointment at how things were panning but G just ignored him and off she was. I felt really bad for him. I knew he was looking forward to having a nice time with Gina this night and I just blew it for him.

"What part of 'be cool', didn't you understand?", Dave asked, sighing in frustration.

"I don't know what came over me man", I replied. "I'm really sorry I ruined your night with Gina man. I didn't mean for everything to turn out this way bro".

"You should", Dave retorted. Okay, I get it now, he's really pissed.

I figured it would best not to say anything for now until he was calm enough. He didn't say a word and just focused on the live rendition of a guy doing a cover of Jahiem's 'Put That Woman First'. Even the title of the song was berating,  this couldn't get any worse than this.
As the silence enveloped our table, I kept replaying everything that happened and couldn't help but wonder how a night that started out so perfectly just at the entrance of the locker room could have such a disastrous end, just in a matter of minutes.

Just then, our orders arrived but my appetite and I'm sure Dave's too, was long gone. I felt like sending the waiter back with the food, after all it was their delay that caused this whole thing because if they had brought our food on time, I wouldn't have gone looking for them in the first place thereby not giving Caleb the chance to even on my seat.

"Really?", Dave said of all a sudden. "You're going to pin this on the kitchen guys?" He continued, leaving confused as to what he was on about and then it hit me. I actually said that out loud.

"Didn't know I said that out loud", I muttered, folding my arms.

"Yeah right", he scoffed. "You're very selfish, you know that right?" He said and it was my turn to scoff.

"Look man, I know I ruined your night with Gina ok? And I'm sorry about that but that's it bro, I can only apologise. I can't change the past so quit whining already. Jesus!" I retorted angrily, already fed up with his snide remarks.

"Of course", he chucked,  shaking his head sadly. "I'm out of here", he said standing up.
"But before I go, I want you to see something. You just saw Caleb talk to Mia once and you hit the roof with jealousy, now put yourself in Mia's shoes who's had to compromise and watch you work with Nonye day after day", he said and then walked away. I've had three people walk out on me this night, that has to be a record, but what kept tugging at the  back of my mind was the fact that Dave was right about me after all. I am selfish.
__________________________________________

jullyrosy:
Let it be today ooo

Tomorrow

jullyrosy:
Moura7 hope ure ok?

I'm good....sorry for the no show. Working on it, would upload when I'm done.

Let's see sha....I suppose update Wednesday evening sha. Let's see what Caleb wants.

Modified

YoungBruzzy:
Please how can I get the full story??
Biko no refer me to OkadaBooks ooo

Nah...no full story for now. I update here as soon as I get an idea/inspiration, which is why I asked for y'all for your takes cause the way it is now, y'all might not like the turn the story might take.

samtoolz:
Thanks for this Moura, I’ll be back next month for the next update

Lol...you know it.

Contd

After a quick shower in the employees' washroom and a change of clothes, I was good to go. With our fingers laced together, Mia and I walked to our table where Gina and Dave seemed to be in some sort of argument. It didn't look heated at all, rather it seemed like the type couples have when choosing names for their unborn children.

"Oh, you guys decided to show up afterall", Gina said we got to the table.

"And you guys seem to be getting along well", I said as I drew the seat backwards for Mia to sit down.

"Yeah, but not as well as what made you guys take that long before coming here. I hoped you washed your hands bro" , Dave replied so brazenly.

"Eeewww", Gina expressed her disgust and I just sighed in frustration. He just says the first thing that comes to his mind without even thinking it through.

"You guys ordered yet?", I asked seeing as the table was still empty except for the cocktails Gina and Dave were having before we came.

"Yeah, about fifteen month ago", G replied and I looked around to see if any waiter was coming our way.

"Let me go and see what's wrong", I said as I stood. My tummy was already protesting with embarrassing sounds

"Want me to join you?", Mia offered.

"Nah, I'll be fine", I leaned in and pecked her. "Be right back".

"Oh my God!", G exclaimed. "We get it. You guys are in love so stop with the PDA oppression. Some of us are single here".

"Not for long", Dave smiled, staring at her.

"Yeah right", she rolled her eyes but I, in fact, none of us missed the small curve of a smile at the corner fo her lips after she said that.

"You know what?", Dave said, standing up. "I'll follow you. I need to stretch my legs too".

"Okay", I agreed and we set out towards the kitchen.

"So you and Gina seem to getting along pretty well", I said as we got to the kitchen.

"Yeah bro, taking it a step at a time. Did a little background check on her to know stuff she's interested in and did a little study on them", he replied.

"Wow, nice", I bumped fists with him. "But you do know that's some borderline stalker sh*t, right?"

"Its not like I'm hiding in the trees looking at her through her window. Its just a harmless cyberstalking to get to know my future wife better", he said and I laughed.

"You're so full of yourself", I said. "But seriously bro, be careful not to cross any boundaries", I advised.

"Sure thing bro", he nodded. "So...", he began and I just knew what next was coming. "How's Nonye?", he completed and I rolled my eyes.

"She's good; she just left a few minutes ago", I answered dryly.

"Shadrach!", I called out to one of the waiters. "You know who suppose bring the orders for table 12?"

"Yes, na me. Na chef chi I dey wait. She stil dey run am", he replied.

"Abeg as she just finish, do fast bring am come. They don dey wait you tire", I pleaded and he nodded in affirmation.

"You guys haven't talked about it till now right?", he asked again as we came out of the hot kitchen.

"Talked about what?", I asked like I didn't know what he was on about.

"Mmhmm", he hummed. "Like you don't know I'm talking about the kiss".

"Look man, there's nothing to talk about. She was just in a bad place then and acted on impulse. It didn't mean anything".

"Really?", he chuckled. "Look maybe it didn't mean anything to you but what about her, huh? What if the kiss meant something to her?"

"I don't know why you're bringing this up now. She kissed me impulsively and she apologised. That's it, nothing more and we've moved on from that  night since", I said, beginning to get annoyed with him trying to make a big deal out of this when its nothing.

"Alright man, if you say so", he said with hands in the air a bit to show he's letting it go. " I'll just say this bro and then I'll shut up.
If she doesn't have any agenda why is she working here with you?  You do know she could have helped without actually  being employed here, right?", he asked and without waiting for a reply, continued moving.

"Why is everybody getting worked up over this?", I asked as I caught with him. "You're even beginning to sound like Mia now and even she, has let it go".

"So have I", he replied. "Got enough on my plate as it is already", he said as we got within sight of our table. Only that, there were now three people at our table and the third person who seemed to be a guy, was on my seat next to Mia and was infact talking to her.

"Wait, who's that at our table?", Dave asked once we got closer.

"Don't know but--", I was saying but paused when the guy turned towards us and I caught a clear view of his face.

"Caleb", I muttered.....TBC

42

Kk

It's been about two weeks since we started the open mic at PM and I've never been happier throughout my time here. The impact here has been massive; our customers have almost tripled in size. Our social media presence too has been great and it's all thanks to Nonye. She's really good at what she does. She even had couple A-list celebrities retweet us and some have even come around and given shoutouts on their Insta stories.
The reception to this idea has been mind blowing and I thank God it all turned out great because I'm not sure I'd still be with a job if the reverse was the case. To crown it all, Mia has been really supportive and understanding, especially with the whole Nonye working with me thingy. I just can't help but love her more, seeing the effort she's putting in to make this work. The truth is that, if she had insisted that I don't work with Nonye, I would have agreed. I would have been angry and a bit disappointed but in the end, I'd have agreed to it because dumb as it seems, I don't think I can bear to not have her in my life. It's like she owns me. Her presence in my life has transformed it in a way I never thought possible. She makes me feel happy-- like there this joy I feel when she looks at me, her eyes full of love. She makes me feel I can actually dream, like I can do something with my life. Before Mia, it was like I was letting life live me and not me, living life. I had no dreams, no passion for anything at all. I felt school was a waste of time and I was comforted with my job as a waiter as long as it kept food in my belly. My unrequited love --infatuation-- with Nonye and the rejection from my mum's family had unconsciously messed me up emotionally. I didn't even know I was messed up before she came. I'd already concluded there's no way anyone would ever accept me as I am and that made me automatically put up walls around me, especially when someone was trying to be nice to me. I could never trust anybody. The exceptions were my grandparents, Nonye, Dayo and to an extent, Dayo's family.
Now all of a sudden, she comes from nowhere and turns everything inside out.    Honestly, sometimes I wait for her to come to her senses and realize that she's too good for me and just leave. Most times, I look at her and I wonder how in the world, someone like me could have someone like her. I'm deeply in love with her and it scares me that she has such power over me but still I don't want to have it any other way.

I gave final instructions to the waiters on what to do when the show was over before rushing to locker room to change and head back home to my girl. We started calling open mic nights shows because our customers seemed to enjoy the performances than they did the food which was also delicious by the way. Getting to my locker room, I was met a pleasant surprise. Mia was at the door waiting for me.

"Hey babe", I greeted as I hastened my steps to catch up with her.

"Hi", she replied and pecked my lips.

"You look stunning as usual", I complimented. "What's up, I thought we'd meet at home?" I asked.

"Yeah, I was bored and Gina suggested we come here, so we did. Oh and Dave too, he invited himself", she said the last part making an annoyed face and I laughed.

"Sure", I smiled and looked sideways to make sure no one was looking before taking a step closer to her. "And you're sure that's the only reason you're here now?", I whispered and kissed her neck. "Not because you missed me?", I asked softly, while I caressed her neck with bridge of my nose, at the same time taking in her sweet fragrance.

"That too", she whispered in a tone that came out more as a moan. I smiled at that and pulled away just enough for me to look into her eyes before going for her lips.

"Ahem-mhen!!", someone cleared their throat suddenly, making us pull away from each other with the speed of light.

"Oh hey--Nonye", I said, feeling a bit embarrassed. "You--you're ready to go?"

"Uh..yes. I'm sorry for interrupting", she apologised, an amused expression on her face.

"And yet you did", I heard Mia mutter but I ignored it.

"Yeah, okay. See you later then", I said.

"Yeah, I didn't come with my car. It has issues and I was wondering if you could give me a ride home...that's if its no trouble", she requested. I opened my mouth to reply but just didn't know what to say. I wanted to help, I really did but I also didn't want to push my luck with Mia. I looked to her for a sign or something and she answered me by looking away.

"I..I'm really sorry Nonye but Mia and I are having dinner here now", I explained. "Uh, let me order you an uber", I offered quickly and got out my phone.

"Oh .its okay. Its nothing really, I'll just do that myself. You, have a good night okay?", she said and walked away.

"Bye Nonye", Mia whispered in a happy mocking tone and I just smiled at her.

"You really are something, you know that right", I said to her, amused at her gimmicks.

"I try", she shrugged.

"You know, I really appreciate you trying with Nonye. I know its hard".

"No biggie", she smiled up at me. "Oh, the things we do for the people we love", she sighed heavily.

"If only people could see the angel that I see", I pinched her cheeks playfully and she hit my hand away laughing.

"Let's not get carried away though", she laughed. There are still times I want to lock her up in a container and let it sink in the ocean".

"Well, thank for you for restraining your psychotic self from doing that", I joked and she hit my arm.

"You know I love this psycho", she said.

"A lot", I replied and she smiled, leaning up to peck me.

"Now, go change. People are waiting for us, remember?"

"Yeah yeah", I reluctantly let her go and walked into the male locker room.....

AMEN!! To all the birthday wishes guys.....I really appreciate. Just entered my house now, would work on the next update soon and prolly post tomorrow. Still let me know what you guys think. Ok let me the first, a Nonye and K ship--our feelings aside-- won't be bad.

41

Mia

Picking out clothes has to be the hardest choice to make in life and unfortunately, that was my fate right now. I made a quick stop at my house immediately after lectures to grab a few clothes before I return to K's place. I just need a few clothes so I don't scare K into thinking I'm moving in but I just have alot great clothes that I want to take all of them. I sighed as I sat down on the floor of my closet and began unpacking my fully packed bag for the umpteenth time. I really have to get this over and done with before he comes to get me soon. Now that I think of it, he sounded a little nervous over the phone. The plan was I'd meet him at his place but he insisted on coming over to pick me which wasn't in anyway necessary.

'Maybe he just misses me', I concluded in my thoughts. That's the more plausible reason seeing as he was all over me this morning.

"Mia?", Joy called as she entered my room.

"Over here", I replied from the closet.

"Okay. Oh...you're packing?" She enquired with her lips perked in a pout.

"Uh..yeah", I replied. "I'm out of clothes at K's so I'm here for some reinforcements".

"Oh", she said casually and I looked at her. I know that tone.

"What is it, Joy? I know you have something to say". I asked while going about my packing.

"Nothing", she replied and I gave her a look again and she sighed.
"Is that you're barely here anymore and I miss you sometimes", she opened up and I smiled.

"Only sometimes?" I joked and she laughed.

"I'm sorry", I apologised, trying to pull off the puppy eyed look but she just waved me off laughing.

"You don't have to apologise for being happy", she said smiling. "Its been long since I've seen you this happy".

"I know right", I agreed, smiling. "Sometimes, its not real and I would soon awake from this dream", I said sadly and then yelled in pain when I felt a stinging sensation on my skin. Joy had pinched me.

"That feel real enough for you?", she asked smugly and I just eyed her while softly rubbing the spot she pinched me.

"You know you could have just passed your point across with words. You didn't have to do that", I whined.

"I know. I just wanted to do that", she said smiling. "So, you think he's the one?"

"I know he's the one", I answered out rightly.

"Wow, bold much?" She replied and I brought out my tongue to mock her.

"Very mature", she replied sarcastically. "Well, I'm happy for you, baby", she said and pulled me in for a hug.

"Thanks", I replied with my eyes closed, enjoying the warmth of her embrace. She was like a mother figure in my life now and I'm glad I have her blessing to be with K. Not that I cared though but it's just so much better that she approves. LOL.

The next half hour had us catching up on stuff that has been going on in our lives. Joy relieved me of the stress of packing and boy, did she do a good job. What had taken me close to an hour, she did in a matter of minutes.

K arrived just we were about to munch on some snacks Joy had the chef prepare when I got here. Talk about spot on timing.


"Hey babe", I stood to welcome him with a peck. "Just in time for some snacks".

"Thanks babe", he replied a bit weirdly. "Good afternoon ma", he greeted Joy.

"Good afternoon", she answered, smiling at him. "Uh, I'll leave you guys now. You guys have fun", she excused herself.

"Everything alright babe?", I asked as I pulled a chair for him to sit before sitting down myself. What! Chivalry isn't for men alone.

"I'm-I'm fine", he stuttered.

"Okay", I let it go. He will tell me what's wrong in his own time. "So, how was your day? Still met with your friend?"

"Uh..yeah I did", he replied, nodding his head. "Yeah about that, there's something I want to talk to you about".

Okay, now this is beginning to freak me out a bit. I knew something was up but seeing how it's got him all tensed up is beginning to scare me.

"Okay", I answered softly, fidgeting with my fingers. Suddenly, the snacks that got my tongue wet with appetite earlier didn't look so appealing anymore.

"Uhm..", he began before pausing to clear his throat. "So as you know, I went to see a friend today. That friend was Dayo, my childhood friend with Nonye", he said and looked at me. I'm guessing he wanted to gauge my expression which I managed to keep as plain as possible.

"So we had been having some issues for a while now and the meeting today was an attempt on reconciliation", he stated.

"Okay. That's a good thing right?" I asked, feeling confused as to what he was driving at.

"Yeah", he nodded in agreement. "Only that he came with Nonye. It was like an intervention. She came to help him apologise".

"Oh", I muttered. Of course she'll be involved. "So..did you guys reconcile then?" I asked.

"Yeah, yeah we did", he replied. "Then we got talking and catching up on stuff. So I talked about my promotion at work and Nonye offered to help me land some underground artistes and I...I accepted her offer", he said nervously.

"Wow...o...okay", I managed to say, while trying very hard not suppress this feeling of worry sprouting up in me at this new development. "That's...that's very nice of her", I forced a smile.

"Really?", K asked, surprise all over his face. "You're not mad?"

"Me? Mad?..of course not", I replied in the most convincing manner I could muster. At this point, it was myself I was trying to convince not him.

"I mean it's just a friend trying to help another friend..... right?", I asked with a chuckle to mask how tensed I was.

"Sure", he replied and smiled for the first time since he got here. "But there's something else".

"Something else? Like, there's more to this?", I asked , wondering what could be worse than this.

"Yeah, so, uh..she...Nonye is now my colleague. She...the restaurant seemed to like her ideas and employed her to be part of our PR team", he finished, leaving me more worried than I was before.

"O..okay. That's..that's alot", I said and stood up from the now uncomfortable dining stool.

"I know", K said softly. "But babe, please understand that she'll really be of help to me with this new project."

"Of course", I chuckled, shaking my head. "Because she's the only influencer in Nigeria. Wait, are you the one that recommended her?", I asked in an accusing tone.

"No", he denied. "She offered by herself".

"How convenient", I scoffed. "Why would she want to do that?"

"I don't know, maybe she needs the experience", he said, spreading his arms out wide. "Why is this even an issue? She's my friend too, you know. You can't just expect me to cut ties with her just because you and I are together", he said and I stared at him shocked.

"Wow", I voiced softly. Harsh as that might have sounded, it was the truth and that was what hurt me the most. That I was becoming so insecure that I wanted him to chose between the two of us. It feels like I'm on fixating on a hunch birthed from an automatic point of spite, to avoid my underlying insecurity as a result of my knowledge of his feelings for Nonye before.
She is his best friend and was his first love. How do I compete with that?
I've had this fear since she got back and I guess I just didn't want to acknowledge it then and chose to mask it with the thought that she up to no good.

I know I shouldn't be feeling like this but I just can't help myself. Say, with this new arrangement, they spend alot of time together and somehow he realizes that he never stopped loving her. What would become of me? I love K very much, God knows I do and I love that I love him so much but I hate that I feel this weak and vulnerable because of it. I hate that I feel this insecure and pathetic.

I was so in my head that I didn't notice that K was squatted in front of me now and was wiping away a stray tear from my eyes with his thumb.

"I didn't mean it like that babe", he said softly. "I just need you to understand that she's also an important part of my life. I'm not saying you guys should be friends or something like that, I'm just asking that you should be cordial to her atleast. Please babe, for me", he held my face as I stared at him before I smiled and kissed his palm.

"I'm sorry", I said and sniffed. "I'll try to be cordial but I'm not promising anything though", I continued and he smiled.

"Atleast you're willing to try", he said and pulled me in for a hug to which I readily fell into his embrace. Clutching onto him tightly, I blinked back the tears threatening to pour out. I'm no weakling, have never been and never will be so I'm going to fight for my man no matter what I have to deal it.

"I love you", I whispered in his embrace.

"Love you more babe", he replied and pecked me on my neck.....TBC

Chaii....make una no vex o. So sorry.
I suppose update again by Tuesday. Today was/is my birthday.

jullyrosy:
Moura7 weldone oooo

Eeeii!!!!.I never post? Sorry o

Sorry guys, abeg make una no vex. Trying to piece everything together cause I want to end this first part of the series soon and I don't want to loose my way. So pls be patient.

New update on Thursday evening....let's see how low Dayo and Nonye can go to get their hands dirty. On the other hand, is K and Mia's love that strong to weather the series of storms about to come? First love's is one tricky and cruel thing. Let's see sha.

40

Kk

I tossed and turned abit half asleep but still having enough consciousness of my surroundings. I lazily stretched to hands to touch Mia but was met with a bit of disappointment when it landed on empty space on my bed.

'Where's she off to this early?', I wondered.

It took every will in me to keep from surrendering to the inviting strings of sleep pulling me to a comfortable state of nothingness. Lazily, I got off the bed and went on knees to give thanks to the Father that gives life. As child, I'd been rightly trained in the way of praying before starting my day. God had done so much for me that I'd be foolish not to give thanks to Him every day of my life. Now that I think of it, I'll make sure to ask God for forgiveness for checking for woman first before giving to Him this morning.

After praying, I checked the clock and the time was still 6:15 a.m and groaned a little because it was still early, seeing as today was a free day for me. It was my lecture free day and an off day for me at work too. I had planned it that way so I could use it as a catch up day to update projects and stuff I was lagging behind in.

I strolled to the bathroom where I saw Mia brushing her teeth, looking all hot and sexy in her silky and lacy short nightie highlighting her very fair biracial skin. Damn! My baby's a goddess.

"Morning queen", I whispered in her ears and kissed my cheeks, leaning myself into her from behind. Just a whiff of her scent got my senses running wild that morning.

"Huuy buube", she said in an intelligible manner due to the mouth wash in her mouth. She gargled and spat out everything and rinsed again before turning fully to me, smiling. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to wake you. I know this your free day and I didn't to disturb your sleep", she said, wrapping her arms round my neck.

"Yeah well", I began in a husky voice and began planting kisses on her neck. "Since the deed is already done, how about we just make the most out of it?"

"Ohh, okay, wait", she giggled and put her palm on my chest stopping me from continuing what I began. She looked down to my lower region and whistled at what she saw. "Babe, I'm sorry but I've got an early morning class. I'm sorry?", she pleaded, caressing  side of my face.

"Oowwm", I whined, feeling frustrated by the disappointing news.

"Sorrryyy", she said again with a smile. "I've got just two classes today and both the last one's ending around 11a.m so I'll be back before its even noon".

"I hate school", I groaned and bowed my head on her shoulder while she steadied it, rubbing the back of my head.

"Well, I love it which means you gotta love it too", she laughed. "I like this side of you though".

"Of course, you do", I pulled out from her hold to look at her smiling face. "Its all good sha, I'll be fine", I said taking out my toothbrush and shifting abit so I could brush.

"Attaboy", she said and pecked me, before going into the shower.

I finished with washing my mouth and face before I went to the fridge to munch on some bread. Bread has been that friend that sticks closer than a brother for me. I wonder why people always get surprised when I say bread is my best meal. I mean it's not that far fetched, even our Lord Jesus Christ said He is the bread of life. He could have picked any other food but he chose bread; that should mean something.

I heard my phone ringing so I walked to my bedroom to see who it was. Who knows it might be work or even my grandparents. Yeah, I don't know much people. I like to keep my circle small. As has been the trend this morning, I was disappointed at the caller id staring back at me as I checked my phone. Maybe I should just go back to bed again and wake up to stop jinxing series of disappointments I've experienced this morning. Or, maybe it's my punishment for not praying first thing this morning before looking for woman.
The phone started ringing again and I exhaled deeply in frustration.

"Howfar", I said after picked the call.

"I dey bro", Dayo answered and then some seconds of uncomfortable silence ensued.

Dayo: Can we meet up later? To, you know, talk about us?

Me: I don't know man, I kinda swamped with a lot of work at the moment.

Dayo: Guy please, just do this for our relationship. Look, I know I messed up and I just want to make up for it. Please give me a chance.

Me: Like I said I don't know if I can--

Dayo: Bro please. Okay see, just come and if after we talk, you can't forgive me, then I won't disturb again. Please man.

Me: (sighs deeply) okay (hangs up).

I sighed again and let my back crash into my bed as I thought about the whole thing. My phone beeped and I looked at it--a message from Dayo telling me the time and location. I kept back the phone and closed my eyes for a bit. If he's truly sorry then no biggie, we can definitely go back to being bros but I doubt his sincerity. I don't know why, but at the moment,  I just can't seem to trust Dayo like I did before.

Just then Mia pulled up in the room, wrapped in a towel. Light reflecting her wet skin making it shine like she was a celestial being. Well, she might as well be--I mean she's already an angel so calling her celestial isn't afar off.

"Heard your phone ringing", she said as she began applying her body lotion.

"Mmhmm", I hummed.

"That's strange". She continued with her rubbing. "Who'd be calling this early?"

"Nothing much. Just my friend asking if we could hang out later".

"Oh...your friend", she said. "Your Male friend?" She asked with an expressionless face but I could tell she was dying with curiosity to know who called.

"YES Mia", I replied, laying emphasis on the way I said the yes so she'd know I was on to her. "Its my male friend, nothing for you to worry about".

"I wasn't worried", she said and began untying the towel she used to pack her hair.

"Mmhmm", I hummed knowingly.

"Its nice though, at least you have someone to keep you company till I get back".

"Right", I agreed dryly.
__________________________________________

I took a sip out of my smoothie as I surfed through Instagram while waiting for Dayo to show up Redé cafe. Dude picked this cafe and didn't even stop to consider if I'd able to afford it. These rich spoilt brats sef.
Three thousand naira for just a cup of smoothie. Well, he's going to have to pay for it though, he's the one that pushed for this meeting, not me.
I focused back on my search on IG for the best underground singers I could recruit to sing at PM. So far so good, only one had gotten my interest. Her name's Kate and boy, can she sing. She's done lots of covers for hit songs and with the massive amount of views she racks up, I know she won't come cheap but then again, nothing good comes cheap.

"So Kate, check", I muttered and went for another sip of the delicious smoothie. I won't lie though, sh*it's actually worth the price. I looked up from my phone screen for a second and that was when I saw Dayo walking towards me, but he wasn't alone. He was with Nonye.

"Hey man", he greeted as he pulled a seat for Nonye to sit, before pulling another for himself. How chivalrous.
"Sorry I'm late, I got held up with stuff", he apologised.

"Cool", I replied. "Although I thought it'd be just us. What is this, some sort of intervention?"

"Really?", Nonye scoffed. "Well, I'm doing fine. Thanks for asking?", she said sarcastically and I sighed, realizing I had totally ignored her presence.

"I'm sorry Nonye", I smiled lightly at her. "Well, then, let's get on with it".

"Yeah, so like I said earlier on the phone", Dayo began. "I miss you man. I miss us, I miss the way we used to be and I'm really sorry about all I did. I was just being petty. Please forgive me bro", he apologised.

"He really is K", Nonye chipped in. "He told me everything that happened. See, I forgave so I'm sure you can too".

Why am I not feeling this? I mean it's supposed to be easy right, seeing as he's apologised but I don't know. Everything just feels off or maybe I'm just being my usual paranoid self. I don't know.

"Uhh..its--its fine", I stuttered. "We're good. Honestly, I wasn't beefing you man, you're like my brother and all I've ever wished for you was for you to be happy man even if it cost me mine, but not just this one. I really love her man, like for real and if you'll be cool with that then I guess we're good", I said, looking at his face to gauge his reaction.

"Of course", he smiled. "Thank you man. If you're happy with her, then I'm happy for you", he stood up and pulled me into a hug  patting my back a little too harshly.

"Would you look at that", Nonye said, smiling. "We're back".

"Yeah", I smiled. "But", I began. "You guys would have to accept Mia, though. She's
an important part of me now and yeah, she can be a tad bit extra but I'll really appreciate it if you guys can just be patient enough to see that's she actually a nice person", I said, looking at Nonye in particular.

"Why you looking at me?", she asked, confused. "I'm the one that offered peace first and she laughed in my face. You were there, remember?"

"Yeah, but--"

"Okay, okay, everybody calm down", Dayo cut in and then turned to me, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Don't worry bro, we will give it our best shot. Right, Nonye?"

"Right", Nonye mumbled reluctantly, folding her arms with an frown on her face, grumbling her disagreement like th spoilt brat she was. She's just too cute.

"Great", Dayo clapped happily. "Glad that's out of the way. So what have you been up to my G", Dayo asked me.

"Nothing much, just work. Matter of fact, that's what I'm on now. We want to start having something like a live band-ish at the restaurant, and I've been put in charge of scouting the singers and so far, I've just one, of which I'm not even sure I can land. She's seems quite famous for an underground artiste and kinda expensive too".

"Okay. That's abit of an exploitation of staff in my opinion. I mean, aren't you just a waiter, why are they burdening you with that? You should ask for a raise", Dayo said in a agitated manner.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you, I got promoted. My waiting days are over", I said a bit proudly. A man's allowed to blow his trumpet once in a while, right?

"Oh", Dayo muttered. "That's...that's great news", he stuttered and I don't know if it's just me or the smile looked forced.

"Uhmm...maybe I can help", Nonye suddenly offered after some seconds of awkward silence. "What's her name?"

"Uh, Kate..actually its Katie", I replied, checking my phone.

"Katie? That's easy then, she's a friend", Nonye said. " I can just reach out and schedule a meeting for you guys".

"Wow, Nonye, that would be great. Thanks alot", I appreciated.

"You're welcome and I can even help build a strong social media presence for you guys too. It would help alot and you know that's my jam".

"Nice, but I would have to check that with the main manager though", I replied.

"Oh, easy peasy then I'll just give him a call", she said, getting out her phone.

"Uhh...Nonye that's not--", I was saying but she'd began talking and stood up to go somewhere she could talk freely.

"Okay", I muttered and drum rolled on the table with my fingers.

"Things are looking pretty good for you man", Dayo said. "How do you do it though?"

"Do what?", I asked confused.

"Get so lucky, especially with people?", he asked curiously leaving me all the more confused.

"Me lucky?", I asked again and he nodded.

"Oh, wow, you think I'm lucky?", I laughed. "Let's switch places then. Starting with that Aston Martin your dad got you for your last birthday, you can have my Camry, I don't care. Then I get just your monthly allowance, not even your trust fund o, just your allowances and you can, I don't know, take my job? How about that? Still think I'm lucky?"

"Well, I guess when you put it like that--", Dayo began.

"Hey, what did I miss?" Nonye cut in as soon as she rejoined us. "Never mind. Guess what?" She said, looking at me with a smile.

"Uhh...I don't know. You know I suck at guessing games so just tell me already", I replied taking a sip of my smoothie.

"Such a killjoy", she hissed. "Anyways, say hello to the newest employee of the PR team for PM. We're colleagues now", she said excitedly and shocking me to the spot......TBC

MichaelBlake40:
So, as the commenters above have stated , Dave is Kk's brother (or at least close to that), given the not so subtle hint in the last update.
Nonye's plan will never work as a as there's no residual affection for her in Kk's which i highly doubt.

Haba now, feelings don't just go away like that now, especially feelings that have fostered almost your whole life. Well, let's see sha.