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She got to upstairs and stopped in Ebere's room. She banged heavily on the door but got no answer.
She made for Michael's room, hoping to see Ebere there but it also turned out to be fruitless.
The fight isn't over, she thought. She would take her fruit first before going to meet Leonard. Both Ebere and Michael would hear from her soon.

*********

She heard the loud banging and quickly retreated. Thank God she locked the door. She would remain in the room till God knows whenever Michael would return.

***********

Claire was led down the stairs by two ladies she couldn't see because of the blindfold. They guided her gently till she got to the middle of a room which was very quiet.
The girls left her hand and she felt alone and scared suddenly.

"Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday my princess. Happy birthday to you.'

She knew that voice. How on earth did she forget that it was her birthday?
She took off the blindfold and struggled for her eyes to get accostomed to the dimly lit sitting room
She looked up and the answer to her question appeared just in front of her.

KELVIN

His face was up on the projector
He had a contagious smile and his eyes were wet as he continued the song.

The lights came on and her jaw dropped. There were lots of people in the sitting room and they joined Kelvin on the song.
Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked around the room.


*************"

Amara picked the second car key, sent a text to Leo and walked down the stairs.
Michael has been ignoring her but she won't take it anymore.
He would know the stuff she was made of.

This meeting with Leonard meant a lot. He had not allowed her touch him the previous day, claiming that he wasn't ready. But today, she won't listen to him. It has been long she was with a man. Leonard was cute and tall, a graduate with a promising future. He had no money but she would make do with him. She would scratch his back and hopefully, he would scratch hers too.

******


He drove into the large compound.
The celebrant must be very wealthy. The building was a sight to behold. The cars parked inside gave a clear description of the personalities inside the house.
He parked in a space, took out the bag bearing the gifts and began to walk to the building.

He met a steward at the door who took the items from him before he went in.

*************

"How old are you now? How old are you now? How old are you now? How old are you now?' They sang

She walked to the front of the screen and placed her hand on it while Kelvin smiled and the room became suddenly quiet.

"Thank you. Thank you Kel." She cried, the tears running freely now.

"No Claire, my princess, don't cry please. I hate to see you crying, not on your birthday please.'

She sniffed and shook her head

"You're a strong woman, pretty face. Look the number of people who are here today to share in your happiness. You deserve it and lot more. Stop crying please."

"I forgot about my birthday Kel. A lot of........"

"Sshhh. Let's forget the past hmmm? Today is the beginning of a new phase for you. Today matters because my aunt always said that how you start a year determines how that year would go for you.'

"Thank you Kel. Uhm, how.........."

"Phillip. Your Phil. He did it all."

Shivers ran down her spine as he walked out of a group towards her.

"Happy birthday Claire." He said, standing directly in front of her.

She looked around and turned back to him.

"Phillip........."

"Be happy Claire."

He turned to leave but she held his hand. He turned around and she went into his arms.

*************

Chantal watched him from upstairs, from the very moment he walked in to find Claire in the middle of the sitting room to now when she was in Phillip's arms.
His reaction was just what she had imagined.
He slowly took his eyes from the couple in the middle of the sitting room to Kelvin's happy face. She watched him wipe a tear before he walked out.

**"*********

Michael got out of the house and into his car. He wept bitterly.
What happened?
What changed?
Why did they separate?
He bent his head on the steering and wept.
She was happy, She has Kelvin, she has the barrister guy and he was sure Chief knew about this too.
But who did he have?
Who was with him?
No one.
Because he was the architect of his own problems.

He slowly lifted his head, turned on the ignition and drove out of the compound.

Good morning dearies.
I'm sorry I've been away because of the program in church yesterday. But its all over now. Your girl came out second.
I'll update later in the day. Thank u guys

Iamkuttie:
Aunty, Guru even.

pray I don't catch you because this time, na granite and sedimentary rock you go chop. Good morning

Tears welled up in her eyes as she watched Ebere stir and Michael held unto her like she was a baby.

"Should I repeat myself?" He asked

She left the room, breaking into a cry once she was outside. She ran to her former room and cried bitterly.
This wasn't what she bargained for. How did he suddenly hate her like that? What wrong did she do?

The ringing of her phone brought her back to earth. The ID was Leo and she hesitated before picking the call.

"I didn't hear from you again so I decided to know what's up. Are we still seeing today?"

"Yes. I'll call you later in the evening." She said with a snif

"Are you okay?"

"Yes. Just a little catarrh but I'll be fine."

"Alright. Take care then."

"You too."

She ended the call and wiped her tears. Michael won't break her, she won't let him. He should go on with anything he was doing with Ebere, but when the time comes, they'll know who laughs last.
She made this resolve, stood up and began to tidy the room. She would make this place her own palace so she won't have anything to do in Michael's room anymore, not after the dirty Ebere had laid on the bed anyways.

***"***********

He waited for her to come back and when she did not, he quietly removed his arms from Ebere and stood up, picked up his Calvin Klein underwear and got into the bathroom.
He still had to stop by the super mart to get some things for this celebrant he doesn't even know.
He came out after some minutes and threw his wardrobe door open. He began to search for the right outfit.
He scanned for a while and he became frustrated. He had never searched for what to wear for how many years now since he met Claire. She always knew the right outfit for every occasion and they were always on his bed before he came out of the shower.
He hissed and picked out a black pant and white shirt. He looked through his tie collection and picked out a thin black tie. This would do. He would complete it with his signature shoe. He quickly went to work, dressing himself up.

"Oh Claire, you spoilt me silly." He muttered

****************

Enatel drove into the compound. He came out after a while, bearing some items which Phil had requested for.
Kelvin wanted to watch everything life so they'll be using a projector.
He wished his friend happiness.
He had seen the way Phil had prepared for the patty with mixed emotions, concentrating on the things Claire loved and he knew without been told that his best friend was in love.

He carried the things inside and the people in charge of lights started working on it immediately. It was almost 5pm and the house was already filled with people. The party would start soon and he needed to dress for the occasion.

*********

He drove out of the super mart with a happy grin. He had gotten the iPhone he ordered plus a jewelry set and a big white teddy. This would do. He looked at his phone again for directions before zooming off. Today would be good.

**"*********

Chantal couldn't make her up but she was satisfied with her simple but classic look. Her short silver gown was superb and her hair was in a messy bun. The blindfold was still there but she would swear that once it's taken off, people downstairs will still appreciate her.

"Now sit still please." She said in her fake voice and Claire nodded innocently

Chantal began her own round of dressing up. Once she was through, she would ask of the next line of action.

Halfway through her make up, her phone beeped and it was a text message from Michael.

"I'll be there in thirty. Hope you ain't missing me over there."

Her face squeezed into a frown. She had totally forgotten about him.
She would call some girls to help her out. Michael don't see her face tonight.

************

Ebere woke up and looked around. She was alone. She quickly put on her clothes and noticed a cheque lying on the table beside a note.

"I won't be coming home tonight. Cash the cheque and do some shopping for yourself and the baby. I'll see you when I return and please, stay away from Amara."

She picked the cheque and shook in surprise and shock. She had never held that amount of money in her hand. She knelt down and began a prayer of forgiveness and thanksgiving at the same time.
Remembering Michael's warning, she quickly exited the room. First thing tomorrow morning, she'd go and see Claire.

*************

Amara went down to get something for her stomach.
She met the girls in the sitting room watching "the vow" and her anger escalated.

"What is this? What are you two doing here?"

They sprang up from the cushion and bowed their heads in greeting

"Keep it to yourself."

She turned and began to walk to the kitchen.

"Ma, we were waiting to tell any of you that we were done for the day." Chioma said

"Any of who and who?' Amara asked, walking back to them

"You or madam Ebere." Chioma said and her face was met with a slap.

"Who made her a boss in this house? Today be the first and last you'll refer to her as such. Michael is my husband and that swine seduced him and got pregnant. Never you in your miserable life call her your boss again."

Chioma held her cheek, nodding frantically

"And you, what did you girls make for dinner?" She turned to Ifunanya

"Jollof rice and turkey."

"No appetizer or desserts?"

Ifunanya shook her head in negation.

"Then why will you want to leave? You don't know that there are rules in this house regarding meals? You think you can just go in there and make whatever and then go home? Both of you, to the kitchen now." She ordered.

The girls scampered towards the kitchen like fowls.

"And Ifunanya get me watermelon from the fridge."

Amara sat down and thought for a while.
Michael was out. It's time to deal with Ebere now. She stood up and began to go upstairs.

romanticnovella:
Chantel should stop all these pretense of teaching Michael and Amara a lesson because Amara's own karma is at home (Ebere)... She already has eyes for him and Claire will not forgive her if she finds out later..

I have a feeling that Michael will end up with ebere because she does everything like Claire. She cooks and cleans even with her condition unlike Amara who is very lazy and also a bitch ...

I really don't understand Kelvin's aim at all... It's as if he prefers Phil to Michael... And he calls Michael his brother but won't visit him,he's in town planning something with Phil..

read again. He's not in town

Chantal left the room quietly and started searching for Phil. Guests were already arriving and they all looked like first class citizens. She made a mental note to start dressing up as soon as she gets back to the room.

She rounded a corner and saw Phil addressing a group of people on uniform.
She went to them and stood beside him.

"........ .just supervise the banquet. I don't need any issues. "

They nodded and dispersed before he turned to her.

"How's she? Has she eaten anything yet?"

"No. She's been sleeping."

"Oh! Okay. Any problem?"

"Yes. People are already coming and I'm thinking if I should get her ready."

"Will she allow you?"

"I'll try. You don't expect her to come out first dressed in that. We ordered two gowns for her rember? She'll come out in one and then dress properly with the second one."

"Oh! Its just that I'm having a strange feeling about all this."

"Think positively Phil. Don't let negative thoughts ruin today. It has been going very well since morning so just calm down."

"Alright."

"Your friend hasn't shown up yet?"

"He will be here shortly with a host of others."

"I'll go get our birthday girl ready and please, don't be negative about all this."

He nodded and she walked away.


************

He walked into the house and the first person he met was Chioma.

"Good afternoon sir."

"Yes? How's it going? Hope you girls are already getting familiar with everything?"

"Yes sir."

"Alright."

He left her and started going upstairs, wondering where his two baby mamas were.
He got to his room and to his surprise, it was locked.


**********

Ebere heard the door handle turn and she sprang up from the bed.

"Amara enough of this silly joke of yours. Open this door right now."

The door opened immediately and Michael walked in.

"Good afternoon sir.' She greeted

"Fine afternoon. What is going on here?" He asked, dropping his suitcase on the sofa

Ebere explained all that transpired between she and Amara.
To her surprise, Michael broke into a hearty laugh.

"Don't mind her. Going there and not seeing me is punishment for her alone. Go and freshen up and come back here so you'll keep me company before I go for a friend's party."

She nodded and quietly left the room.

***********

She stepped out of the elevator into the elevator and the secretaries stared at her.
She stopped in front of Michael's secretary and he gave her a warm smile.

"Good day madam, how can we help you.?"

"I'm here to see Mr Michael." She said, looking around the hall

"Do you have an appointment?" The secretary asked calmly

"Excuse me? Did you just ask me that?" She barked angrily, drawing the attention of the other secretaries

"I'm sorry ma but I asked because......"

"Shut up. Shut that gutter you call a mouth before I have your job. Do I need an appointment to see my husband?"

At the mention of that, the other girls stood up to look at her clearly.

"Uhm..... I'm sorry ma but my boss never mentioned getting remarried and......."

"Get in there and tell him I'm here."

"But ma, he just left for his house now."

************

"Can I go home now?" Claire asked as she felt a tap on her leg

Chantal stifled a laugh before using a bandana to cover mouth.

"We'll like to change your outfit. We have a uniform which all our employees wear. We want to put one on you right now."

"Oh please. Don't do this to me. Tell me anything you want and I'll give you but I can't serve as an employee."

"Like my colleague said before, cooperate with us and you'll leave here once your time is up. Stand up and take off your clothes please."

"You're a woman like me so please, don't do this to me." Claire pleaded

"Should we get rough with you?"

"No please. No. I'll do whatever you say."

"Better."

She stood up and Chantal could see the tears running down her neck.

""""""""""""""""""

"He cuddled her as she slept in his arms after their love making.
She was everything Amara was not.
She was submissive, with good culinary skills, pretty and very gentle. But his Claire was the best. He wondered where she was at that time. The closed his eyes, ready to surrender to nature when the door barged open and Amara stormed in.

He watched her face squeeze into a tight frown when she saw Ebere in his arms and he smiled.

"Let's do this again. Step out, close my door and knock. Then wait till I ask you to come in."

Lol.

damsel14:
LET ME CALL ON MY LITERATURE MADAMS IN THE HOUSE CHUMZYPINKY,SHEWRITES EVAJEAL MARIANNEADA,KIMBERLYWEST KIMKARDASHIAN PAMELB BIBIJAY123,ANGELSS emperor380,tiffanyj.....if i no call u no vex cos diz ma first time posting here...


IYA GATE EPISODE 1
iya gate
peeping from the windows of one of the flats of the story building i lived in.
She was shouting at her tenants not to pour water on her husband's car which has not been driven in centuries,though it was always covered i never stopped imagining the use of that 'kpangolo'(empty container)

she adores her uncompleted building,and will always sit at the gate to watch maybe the street or her ugly castle.

She seem to know everything in everyones home,even the day mama ngozi, my neighbour flogged her husband and sent him out,she was the first to tell the man pele (sorry) the next morning

On her little table by the old red gate are sweets,biscuits and things needed within a street,she sees it as business but to me its her gossip hub

she lives more by that table than in her house,as she alternates watching her house with the streets,she knows a stranger along the street and wont hold back questions if she has any

well,tomorrow they will be plastering her house and flooring the compound after decades of building and her tenants have had sleepless nights of hearing how much cement cost and the new order of washing in their bedrooms...

I'm here.

The first thing he did as soon as he got to the office was to chat up his object of fantasy.

"Hi pretty face." He sent her

It wasn't long before she replied and he wondered if she was ever offline.

"Hi Mike."

"Looks like someone has been checking out my profile "

"Lol. Don't be flattered. How's it going?"

"Boring without you. Where are you?"

"Oh! Somewhere in mainland. Preparing a surprise for a friend."

"Wow. Good or bad surprise!?"

"Lol. It's a good one. Its her birthday today and she doesn't even know."

"Wow. Wish I'm in her shoes right now. Should I come?"

"Uhm..... I'll check and let you know."

"Hmmm. Is your boyfriend coming?"

"Lol. Brb."

"I'll be waiting my darling."

He began to think of the best gift to give this friend of hers. He needs to leave an impression.

"You can come. I'll text you the address and time."

"Thanks baby."

He quickly sent her his number and logged out. He would work till four, then he'll go home and dress for the party.

***********

Phil watched as they brought her down from the car. He kept giving them signs to take it easy with her.
He led them to one of his guest room where Chantal was waiting.
The men tied her to a chair and they all left the room while she kept pleading to be released.

"I just pray she doesn't sprain her arm the way she was tied " Phil said as soon as they were back in the parlour where workers were decorating.

"I think one of the men and I would go and stay with her. We'll untie her and make sure she's comfortable but we won't allow her remove the blindfold." Chantal suggested

"Yes. That's good. Get to it immediately." Phil said, worry and concern forming lines on his forehead.

"Uhm. Don't worry, it takes time for someone who went through hell to loosen up to people. Just give her time." Chantal advised.

He gave her a nod but instead of going away, she stayed back.

"I invited someone here. Before you get mad, I invited him for a reason. I want him to see how happy Claire can be without him. I want.... "

"Wait. You invited Michael?"

"Yes Phil but.... ..."

"Ask him not to come here or else, I'll punch liquor outta his nose. Why will he come to my house? Wait, are you both........"

"No please. He wants me and he's trying to impress me. All I want to do teach Claire's sister a lesson and then show the scum bag how happy Claire is without him."

He looked at her before heaving a sigh.

"He shouldn't cross my path because I've been wanting to punch him. Go already and untie my woman. I don't want her to sprain her arms."

"Alright. See you later."

She walked out while he went about, supervising the celebration.
Two days ago, Kelvin had called to ask him what he'll be giving Claire for her 27th birthday. He had ransacked his brain but got nothing. It was just the day before that he watched a movie where a girl's friend threw a surprise party for her. He had told Enatel and Kelvin about it and they gave their support immediately. Now, they were here and all he prayed for was for it to be successful.

Sleep had not crossed his eye the previous night as he kept on thinking of what her reaction would be. Angry, happy, she might even slap him.

He shook his head, put his hands in his pocket and started walking round. Today would be good, he prophesied.

*************

Chantal watched Claire closely. She was a pretty woman. Why would Michael treat her the way he treated her? She was hardworking and easy going, she was every man's wish for a wife so what is wrong with Michael? Or Amara self? Her own blood sister? Her only relation? What on earth would make a sister hate her own and break her home?
She heaved a sigh

"Please don't hurt me. I know you're here and you're hearing me. Name your price and I'll give you anything you want but don't hurt me please."

The thug looked at Chantal and when she said nothing, he spoke calmly

"Calm down ma. If you cooperate with us, you'll leave here in one piece. Just calm down and tell us if you need anything, except removing the blindfold."

Claire nodded and laid back on the bed. It wasn't long before she slept off.

*******

He checked the time again and hissed. It was still past one.
He quickly grafted a message and sent it to Ebere. She need not stress. He would be home for lunch.

**********

Amara watched her rival pack up Michael's lunch. She tip toed back to the sitting room and waited. Ebere came out shortly and made for the stairs.

"Hey." She called out and Ebere turned to her

"Michael called........"

"Yes. He......."

"Shut up. You don't talk when I'm talking. And we've not yet talked about the bast@rd you're carrying."

"Mr Michael is the father of my baby so don't refer to it as a bast@rd." Ebere said firmly and Amara smiled

"He said you should go pick up a letter from his room. He said he left it just where you had dropped your dress this morning."

"Okay. Thank you."

She began to go upstairs and Amara followed. They got to the room and Ebere turned to ask Amara why she was following her

"It's my room too. That you've been using it in my absence doesn't give you a right to it. Go and pick up the letter and get out. I want to have my siesta."

Ebere entered the room without saying a word whole Amara looked on. As soon as she saw Ebere walk to the bed, she closed the door with a bang and locked it with the spare key she had.

"Let's see if I won't be the one he'll introduce to his employees as his new wife. B!tch."

She put the key in her pocket and went downstairs, throwing orders at Ifunanya and Chipma on what to do before she returns.

If you're in Onitsha on the 13th, come and support ur girl. Update before dinner please.

"I know someone she made friends with recently, we can indulge her and she will help us."

"That is very good, you should reach her as soon as possible. Enatel must be there now."

"I already did that Kelvin. Sent her a DM last night."

"Okay. I really wish i'm there to see what her reaction would be."

"Don't worry. I'll get everything on camera for you."

"Phillip, you know why i'm supporting you in this right?"

He heaved a sigh.

"Yes i do. And i'm grateful."

***********

"Okay Mr Enatel. You know you're blocking the entrance to my compound right?"

"Yes i know but i just had to get your attention. If I'd parked somewhere there, you would have just gone out straight."

"Pathetic. Men. And you think blocking my gate is the best way to gain my attention? Psst. How do you even know where I live? Have we met before?"

"I followed you home yesterday, you'll have to forgive me for......."

"This is what I call the height of shamelessness."

"You say what?"

"You heard right. Look, get out of my entrance before I......."

"Hey. You don't talk to a man like that." Enatel said, getting pissed

"A man who follows a woman around? Just get out please."

"That's enough. Who do you think you are? What have you got that other ladies out there do not have? Listen, I won't stand here and watch you insult me. I'm only doing this for Phillip who's critically sick and is requesting to see you. You ain't up to the standa......"

"Where's he?"

She didn't see him smile. Her heart was now doing terrible somer saults.

"Where's he? Where's Phil?" She panicked

"Why not take your car back inside. I'll drive us to divine mercy. That's where he is."

************

She heard a knob click and she quickly stood up. Michael came out fully dressed, followed by Ebere who was tying the knot on the waist of her gown.

"Pack my breakfast hmm? I'll eat in the office. I'll like to have noodles and milk for lunch. You know how you cooked it yesterday? Dress nicely while coming you get?"

"Yes sir."

"And you better not address me as sir outside this house. Hurry up, I'm late already." He eyed Amara and quickly turned to leave.

"Michael please, let's talk." Amara pleaded while Ebere stole out to go do her boss' bidding

"Talk about what?" He turned to her

"If there's anyway I've offended you, please forgive me. Remember how much we love each other, don't make the enemies laugh at us."

"You've wronged me Amara, yes, you have. Domestic chore should be every woman's specialty. You don't want to work so why should I waste my time with you? Let me be with people who will do my biddings and not someone who thinks of bedmatics alone. Have a nice day." He turned and left the house.

Amara watched him.
She wont be defeated easily. Lunch right? She's so going to that office.

************

She had woken up that morning feeling excited but she couldn't place her hand on the reason for her mood. When Chika had announced breakfast, she was tempted to ask if there was a celebration but she thought against it.

Now, with the news of Phil's illness, she was tempted to doubt the superstitious beliefs that said that when you're too excited early in the morning, you're day will be filled with good news.

What happened to Phil? They were just together some days ago. Was it an accident? Or just an ailment?

The screeching of tyres brought her out of her thoughts and she looked up. A silver sienna had overtaken them and stopped right in front of their car, blocking their way.
Enatel cursed as four armed men came out of the car.
They made their way to Enatel's car and threw the doors open.
To her surprise, they grabbed her and put a blindfold over her eyes.

"Don't hurt me please." She cried but none of them responded.

She was pushed gently into the car and they drove off, raising dusts behind them

She wrapped her hands aroind him while he watched in disgust.

"I'm sorry darling. I went to the hospital for registration, from there, i stopped by the market to buy some things. I didn't know that traffic will be heavy or I would have cone home straight from the hospital." She whinned, feigning fatigue

"And I should believe you? Amarachi I asked you to make my lunch but no, you carried your lazy bones out. You won't do anything because you don't know how to do anything outside going on twitter to say rubbish. And if you know what's good for you, go and untag me from that nonsense you tweeted. Animal." He turned and began to move up the stairs

"Michael how can you be talking to me like this? What happened? I thought you......."

"Save your strength Amara. If I were you, I'll go upstairs before I change my mind. You're lucky Ebere calmed me before you returned, I swear to God, you would have left this house before you drive into this compound. One more thing, you see the two cars outside, they're mine and I don't recall giving you access to any of them, just in case of next time. Do I make myself clear?"

"No Michael. What is wrong with you? So what if Where didn't calm you down? You'll beat me up? I'm not Claire and what is this thing going on in this house? Ebere isn't an employee yet she's in this house, as what? Listen Michael, I'm your wife and you'll carry me along in whatever that happens in this house."

To her surprise, Michael broke into a hearty laugh, gradually coming down the stairs.

"You're who's wife? Do you have the qualities of a wife? You can't cook, you don't even look like a wife material, the only thing you know is the act of seduction and I'll give you a plus on that. But to be a wife, you'll have to be like Claire, your sister. And hey, let me burst your bubbles, you're in same status as Ebere in this house. You're not the only one carrying my baby after all."

His words sank in and her eyes widened in shock. She stared from Ebere to Michael and when she couldn't take it anymore, she attacked Ebere, throwing her off guard and dealing her blows. But Michael was fast to separate the two and give Amara an ear deafening slap.

"I don't want to hit you Amara so keep yourself in check. Ebere, where did you transfer your things to?"

Ebere couldn't speak. Tears welled her eyes and she was afraid that if she let them out, her boss/baby papa would hit her.

"Follow me." He said when she didn't respond.

Amara watched from the floor where she had fallen. Her dreams had been shattered and she was loosing already, just two days after the divorce that was supposed to bring them together.
How couldn't she see it? He was a dog, he wasn't created for one woman. He had used her against her sister but she was sure that her own will be worse. She had Ebere in the house, then, the fair model outside the house. She was doomed for life. She cried.


*************

"Good morning madam." Chika greeted. "Breakfast is served."

"Good morning Chika. What's for breakfast?"

"Moi moi, made with fresh tomatoes and smoked fish."

"Hmmmm. When did you wake up?"

"Very early madam. You mentioned having a meeting today so I decided to help you be as early as possible."

"Thank you dear. I'll be down in five minutes."

Chika nodded with a smile and left the room.

Claire stood up and went into her bathroom. She cane out after a minute or two and just when she was about going downstairs, her phone rang.

"Yes, Claire Peters on the line........ Oh, madam, I'm sorry but we don't have new orders right now. If you can send me the list of the things you need, I can arrange for them...... Yes, ...... Yes... Thank you."

She dropped the call and made a mental note to send for new deliveries for her plaza, then, she'll travel to Abuja in two weeks for a meeting with jiji personnels. They were lacking a lot of things people needed and she hates it when someone orders for something and gets something else in return. They would deal with this but at the meantime, she'll go downstairs and enjoy her breakfast.


***********

Michael Njama was ready to leave for work but he had not set eyes on Amara that morning.
Maybe she slept in her former room because he had shared his bed with Ebere the previous night. She had left the room that morning to prepare breakfast before the employees start coming.

He was about leaving the room with his suitcase when a knock sounded on his door

"Yes?"

Ebere opened the door and stepped in quietly

"Breakfast is ready Sir."

He ran his eyes over her. She was wearing a loose gown but her melons were very obvious. He was sure she wasn't wearing a bra. His d!ck nodded in excitement and he buried a smile.

"I don't like the kind of clothes you were. Don't you know what it means to be sexy?"

"I.....I d..do sir."

"So? I need you to stop wearing this rags. I'll write you a cheque, change your wardrobe and be clean inside out. For now, I need an appetizer before that breakfast. You were too stiff last night."

Ebere looked at him, confusion drawing imaginary lines on her face

"$trip."

************

She woke up with a start. Her neck ached. She looked around and was alarmed when she realised she had passed the night on the couch. There was nobody in the sitting room. She picked her bag from the previous day and began to go upstairs, fighting hard to forget the incident of the previous day. They would talk about it and he'll apologize. Maybe he was drunk. But, is Ebere really pregnant? Only one way to find out and that will be when Michael must have left the house and if truly the pig was pregnant, she'll throw her out of the house.

She heard the doorbell ring followed by voices of the two new girls and she quickened her steps. They won't see her in those clothes. She was the boss of the house so she doesn't want them to disrespect her in any way.

She rounded the last corner and she heard it loud and clear.
Moans and grunts filled the corridor.
She checked her time and it was 7;31am. What was going on? She reached the last door which was her supposed room with Michael and tears began to drop from her eyes.

"Tell me how much you want to cum b!tch! Say my name wh•re." She heard Michael's voice.

She heard Ebere saying a sorts of rubbish and she sank to the floor.

This was not happening to her, this was not happening.
She got up and tried to open the door but it was locked from inside so she began to pound her fist on the door.

"Michael you're a dog. You're a b@stard. Open the door. Ebere I'll deal with you. I'll kill you."

But instead, she got Michael's grunting as a response.

She lowered herself on the floor and cried her heart out.

************

Claire was about driving out of her compound when she noticed a black venza packed just where she was supposed to reverse outside.
She got out and went to the car. She knocked on the driver's side and to her surprise, the door opened and a gentleman stepped out.

"Hi. I'm Enatel."

Shamefully and without saying another word, she left the premises. She parked at the side of the road and laid her head on the steering. This wasn't what she bargained for when she made up her mind to covert Michael. She didn't plan to be on the loosing end of the sword but here she was, with no direction, just two days after Claire left the house.
She was about going into her car when she saw someone walking in her direction. She looked him over, he was cute, handsome and tall. He was about walking past her when she stopped him.,

"Hi." she greeted.

"Hello." He replied, giving her a curious stare

"Uhm....sorry to disturb you but i'm actually looking for a good eatery where i can have lunch. I'm new in this area and i......"

"There is a good one but it's a bit far from here. Get to the junction in front and turn left, you....."

"Ain't you free? You can take me there right?"

The young man looked her over before nodding in acceptance. They got into the car and drove off.


............................................

Ebere stepped into the house feeling free and relaxed. She would rest for a few minutes before sending her properties to one of the rooms upstairs.
She was surprised when a lady walked into the sitting room and began to question her.

"Excuse me but you can't walk into someone's house without using a doorbell." the girl said

"I'm sorry but i live here. I'm sure you must be the employee my boss said he'll employ."

"Yes. Sorry for the embarrassment."

"It's okay."

Ebere was about to go to her room when Michael walked in, looking like a wounded lion.

"Good day sir." Ebere greeted

"Keep it." He turned to Ifunanya, "Where is Amara?"

"Sir, i don't know. She just gave us orders to cook your something for you and then....."

"Can you imagine the idiot? And you, what's keeping the food?"

"Sir, there's nothing in the house except noodles and i don't know how you like your noodles." Ifunanya replied shakily

"Mi......"

"Sir, i'll prepare it for you please. Give me a few minutes please." Ebere pleaded in a tone that calmed Michael who looked at her briefly and left the sitting room.

"Is the Amara his wife or another employee?" Ifunanya asked

Ebere shook her head with a smile and left for the kitchen, praying that Amara only returns when the heat was over.



............................

"Thanks for agreeing to join me. It would have been so boring."

"You did me the favor ma'am. I don't know the last time i ate this kind of meal."

"Forgive me but do you know we've not even known our names?"

"Yea. Sorry, my name is Leo, Leonard."

"And i'm Amara. You're too cute Leo."

"Thank you. You're beautiful yourself."

"Oh, i know. So, what do you do?"

"I just graduated from LASU. Doing the normal job hunt thing."

"That's good." she said, sipping her wine. "I like you."

The boy scanned her mischievously.

"I like you too."

"Hmm. Let's leave here. I know somewhere private we can go."

..............................

"7pm and she's not yet back and you tell me to calm down? she's not taking her calls either." Michael said angrily

"Sir, i think she's stuck in traffic or something. She'll be home shortly." Ebere said calmly

"I'll teach her not to mess with me in this house. I'll so deal with her." He said, hitting his knuckles on the sofa.

He was still pacing when Amara walked in:

"Hello honey." she greeted, going to give Michael a hug.






sorry guys, i'm having a busy day, decided to drop this short one. Hopefully, i'll do something before nightfall

"Just be careful okay? At least, he's owning up to his responsibilities. Try your best to avoid getting him upset so he doesn't hit you." Claire advised Ebere who came to see her in her plaza.

"Thank you madam. I'll be going to register for my ante natal from here."

"Wow. That's good news. I'm happy for you."

"I'm also happy that I didn't leave, all thanks to you, thank you very much."

"You're welcome Ebere. Drop by this weekend, i think I'll have some things for you."

Ebere thanked her and after a while, she left the plaza.

******"****

She was home alone and heartbroken. Michael had hit her, it was still hard for her to believe it. She decided to go to the hospital for the registration, when he's back, they'll talk about whatever happened the previous day.
She showered and put on a chiffon gown, was about applying her make up when she heard a honk at the gate. She went to the window on time to see Michael drive in and her heart skipped beats. She quickly put away her make up kit and picked her handbag. She would leave the house without speaking to him.

************

"So, you're welcome to my house. Like the agency already told you, I don't want live-in helpers. You'll report here every morning before 7:30 and you'll leave after dinner which is 7pm as well. I'll show you a room where you can use while you're here okay?"

The two girls replied in the affirmative.

"Remind me your names again."

The short girl gave her name as Chioma while the tall one replied as Ifunanya.

"Good. I wouldn't want to be strict on you two. I'll pay you on the due dates as long as you do your jobs correctly. Is that clear?"

"Yes sir." They replied in unison.

"What's happening here?" Amara asked, coming down the stairs.

The girls greeted but she ignored them and faced Michael.

"What's happening?"

"Meet me upstairs." He said and walked out.

She looked the two girls over before following Michael's trail.
She met up with him in the room they shared where he was already loosing his tie.

"Who're those girls?"

"The new workers here." He replied coldly

"Ebere is still here. Besides, why didn't you talk to me first?"

"In my house? This is my house Amara and if you want to throw orders around, go to your own house. Secondly, Ebere is no longer an employee in this house."

Trying hard to fight her tears and appear brave, she sat on the bed.

"You fired her?"

"No. I didn't fire her. Just gave her the rights she deserves."

He began to remove his shirt, folded it neatly before putting it away.

"Call the laundry man to come and pick up this clothes. All my shirts are dirty now."

"Laundry man? What laundry man?"

He looked at her and shook his head before entering the bathroom.
He came out a minute later tying a towel

"There's a number pasted on the door of the laundry room, call it and ask whoever that picks to come around and pick my dirty clothes. I didn't eat anything this morning, I'll forgive that but my lunch better be ready in an hour."

He went back to the bathroom without waiting to know her reaction.

*********"

She got up from the bed, leaving her handbag behind. Claire had really bewitched her husband for her. She won't take it easy with Claire, no she won't.
On a second thought, she picked her handbag and left the room. She met the girls in the sitting room.

"Where are your bags?"

"Sorry ma, we're not live-in workers." Chioma replied

"Says who? Anyways, I'll still talk to my husband about that. The kitchen is that way, go in there and prepare anything with what's available there. My husband is starving. Meanwhile, I'll go to the market and buy foodstuffs for the house."

"Yes ma." They replied

"Now, get to work.*

The two girls went in the direction they were shown while she picked the car key and left the house.

*********

"Where is your madame? I want to see her." Amara barked at one of the employees at the plaza.

The employee, surprised and speechless, nodded and was about to leave for her boss's office when Amara called her back.

"Tell her that Mrs Amara Njama is here to see her."

"What!?"

"Shush. Get to it."

The employee, who was very familiar with Amara looked her over before leaving for her boss's office. She came back in a few minutes.

"She's in her office. You can go......".

Amara pushed her off and went to the direction of her sister's office.

*******

Claire was about to balance the accounts when the message came.
She quietly put away the files and record books and waited for the volcano that was about to erupt.
Just as predicted, her door was thrown open and the villian lady walked in.

"You're welcome to De Gorgeous Mrs Amara, what can we do for you?" Claire asked, just as she asks every customer that comes to her office.

Her calmness caught Amara off guard but she quickly braced herself

"What have you done to my husband? What charms have you used on him?"

"I'm sorry but I do not know what you're talking about." Claire replied

"My foot. He no longer treats me with love, he hits me and........."

She quickly stopped, regretting why she opened up to Claire. She would now laugh at her.

"Continue please."

"I'm here to warn you, because you'll not like my next visit."

"Your tweet were not enough so you came to face me. My dear, if he no longer treats you nicely, just know that the mystery of joy is over and you've slowly entered the mystery of sorrow. If you love your husband that much, this is the time to prove it. Not everyone uses jazz like you. I don't need jazz for karma to start work baby sis."

Her words sank into Amara's head.
Was it really karma?

"But if you ask me, this karma came earlier than I expected Mrs Njama. So, if you're done, quietly leave before I call security on you."

sweetdude001:
No longer interested in d story e don't lose touch, bt y'all insultin ursefs upandan dats amusing

ehe!
Sure you know where the unfollow button is.

EvaJael:
I'm here. Thrilling beginning.
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always present

Claire was about stepping out when a knock came on her gate. No one knew her house address so who could that be? The new gateman opened the smaller gate and Chantel walked in.
Her face lit up and they both went into each other's arms.

"I'm sorry Claire. I'm sorry."

"It's okay dear. It's my cross o i'll gladly bear it."

"But you did the wrong thing Claire. How can you leave your home for them just like that?"

"Chantel, there are some things we can't fight. I was tired of punishing my sister in that her condition. I know she wronged me but then, Michael will still show her what stuff he's made of."

"Are you listening to yourself? Listen to yourself before you speak. You shouldn't have left your home no matter your excuse. But that's by the way because i'm taking care of it already."

"What.......what do you mean?"

"Are you going out?"

"Yes. Join me. I'm going to my plaza. It's been long i supervised it."

"Alright."

Claire unlocked the car and they got in before driving off.


...............................................

He couldn't concentrate on work. He doesn't even have her contact, what kind of mistake did he make? She was one hell of a kisser so he was yet to understand why he couldn't do something as simple as taking her digit.
He logged into his twitter account and searched for his ex wife's handle,not surprised when he realised she hasn't been online for weeks. He dismissed her as baseless then he started going through her list of followers. He didn't have to search for long because she was just there in the first ten. He quickly followed her and took a mental note to send her a dm later. A thought quickly got to his head. He had not been fair to someone and it was time to right his wrongs, besides, they were in it together so she can't go through it alone.


..............................................

She sat down on the bed, different thoughts running through her head.
Has Claire bewitched her husband and turned him against her?
Things were not going smoothly for her and worst thing was it isn't up to 24 hours Claire left the house. She was sure Claire has a hand in whatever was happening and she won't sit and do nothing.
She took out her phone and went online, calling Claire names and asking her to loosen her husband from whatever jazz she had tied him up with. Feeling contented, she dropped the phone and decided to lie back and rest a bit. Hospital will wait till tomorrow.

..............................................

"Wow, your plaza is hot. I can't believe i spent my day here without getting bored. People just keep trooping in and out." Chantel commented as they were about leaving the plaza

"I can employ you if you want." Claire replied and they both laughed.

"Thanks for your company today. I needed it."

"You're welcome Claire. I don't want you thinking about anything. It's good as you made the decision to resume work immediately. It will keep you busy so please, don't think anything please."

"I won't, trust me. And thank you very much."

"You're welcome. Please, take me home."

"With all pleasure."

...........................................

He got out of the car and his mood quickly changed. Why did his mood turn sour right now?
He got into the house and went straight upstairs after asking Ebere to serve his dinner. he met her sleeping and he ignored her, changed into a short and basketball singlet before going downstairs to have dinner.

He found Ebere standing in front of the dinning.

"Ahan. When do you intend to start your ante natal?"

His question threw her off guard and she began to stammer.

"Come and sit with me, we need to talk."

"Sir?"

He led her back to the sitting room and they sat down

"I'm sorry about the way i spoke to you the other day, the divorce process got me all worked up. Hope you understand?"

She nodded and he continued.

"I've called the agency and they'll send some helpers over but they won't live here. You'll move to one of the rooms upstairs and tomorrow, i'll take you to any hospital of your choice for registration.

To his surprise, she broke down in tears and went on her knees.

"I'm sorry sir. Forgive me please."

He helped her up and faced her.

"we all make mistakes, we do. i'm also at fault here because i watched my home break and i couldn't do anything to stop it. So, stop crying please. After the baby comes, we can now know what to do. For now, you're no longer an employee in this house hmm?"

"Thank you sir."

"you're welcome and work on the sir thing. you've served my dinner right?" he asked standing up

"No sir, we cooked nothing. The kitc.........'

But he was already racing upstairs.

He got to the room and threw the door open, startling the sleeping beauty. She stirred and slowly stood up, rubbing her eyes. She saw him and a smile spread across her face.

"You're back honey, welcome."

"Where's the dinner i asked you to make before my return?"

Her eyes opened both in shock and confusion.

"Baby, i'm not feeling too good and..........."

He landed a slap on her cheek and she fell back on the bed.

"You'll follow my orders in this house. You want to be a wife so you'll have to do as i say. Today should be the first and last i'll come home and meet the dinning without my dinner on it. Claire did it so you must. You'll make my breakfast, pack my lunch and still serve my dinner once i return. FOOL."

He left the room, throwing orders to Ebere to prepare noodles for him.

He was dressed in his corporate attire. He would go to the hospital with Amara, after registration and the necessary form filling, he would go to work. He needed to move on and that's what he will do. He thanked God that he was his own boss.

He was about settling on a sofa when the door bell sang.
Ebere walked past him and went to answer the door. He wasn't expecting anyone though but seeing Ebere already caused him goose bumps. Her perfect shape was beginning to come out. Her melons looked bigger and he imagined sucking on them later.

Michael relaxed into the sofa immediately he saw the object of his fantasy walk into the sitting room. He smiled in his head. Women. She must have heard that Claire was no longer in the house so she came to collect the national cake. Women.

"Good morning Mr Njama." She greeted, standing directly in front of him.

But she wasn't smiling. Yes, that's how they always appear, innocent and with good intentions but once you dig them, they keep coming for more.
He ran his eyes over her. Her curves weren't the exact type he likes but he'll make do with her, if not for anything, she was pretty and her melons weren't small. It would fill his hands.

"Morning uhm......"

"Chantel."

"Forgive me. Please sit."

She retreated and sat on an adjacent sofa.

"So, to what do I owe this August visit Chantel?"

"I'm sorry if I'm disturbing because you appear to be going out."

"Yes."

"You see, I want to know if I can get Claire's new address from you. I've been calling her and her line has been off. I........"

"Should I be honest?"

She nodded.

"I don't know her new location. We're divorced remember?"

"Yes, I know but......"

"Chantel, I would love to help you with her address because I like you. You're the perfect model everyone wants to see in magazine covers y'know."

"Thanks Mr Njama."

"Call me Michael. What can I offer you?"


**********

From the corner of her eye, she saw Amara resting on a railing upstairs. Hatred and disgust filled her throat. She was surprised that Claire couldn't treat this trash case but willingly left her home for her sister without dealing them blows.
Just as she did the first time on twitter, she would also repeat it now but this time, Amara would watch it live in 3D.
She had seen the way Michael looked at her and knew that he was lusting after her. She would play along, just to show Amara that whatever she did to her own sister, Karma would surely hit back but for now, she was Karma.

"Anything strong Michael. As long as you're drinking with me."

She watched him smile and she returned it. Let the game begin.

***********
"Give me a minute okay?"

She nodded and he stood up. He winked at her and she blew him a kiss.
He took a stroll to the huge bar and took out a bottle of campari and two glasses.

"This used to be Claire's bottle of thoughts. We can down the bottle right?"

"Of course, since she's no longer here."

"Right. I love your kind of girl."

"Hmmm. It's obvious."

Instead of going back to his position, he sat down beside her and poured their drinks.

"Let's toast to a new friendship." Chantel said

"Perfect."

They clinked their glass together and sipped their drinks.

"There's something I've been wanting to do since you walked in."

"What's that?"

He took her glass and dropped it on the side table together with he's.

"You're beautiful. I like you." He breathed into her neck.

"Mmmm. Mike."

He leaned closer and closed his mouth against hers.

**********

This was the height of it. She wiped the tears that were streaming down her face and started her descent down the stairs.
How dare she?
How dare he?
How dare the both of them?

**********

She saw her coming down and her face lit up. She broke away from the kiss and Michael looked at her with lustful eyes.

"You're one of a kind baby." She commented.

"Can we take this party somewhere else? Maybe......."

But Amara was already there, completing his statement with an ear deafening slap.
He held his cheek and stood up angrily, ready to hit her back but Chantel held him.

"Come on darling, it's not in your nature to hit disrespectful women. Let it be."

Michael looked from Chantel to Amara. He tugged at his tie and left the sitting room.

"You? You won't get away with this. I'll make you pay for seducing my man."

"The same way you seduced your sister's man. Oh. I'm sorry. Forgot it's same man we're talking about here."

"Shut up."

"No you shut up. This is between the both of us now and trust me, I'll make you leave this house with nothing. Shameless $lut."

And with that, she left the house without looking back.

Immediately she stepped out of the house, she spat out.

"Forgive me Claire but I want to serve your sister in same cup. She can't destroy your home and expect to live happily."

"Excuse me madam."

Chantel turned around to see one of the employees.

"You scared me. What's the problem?"

"I'm sorry but I heard you asking of my boss's address."

"Yes. Do you have it?"

Ebere gave her a piece of paper where the address was written down.

"Thank you."

Ebere nodded and watched her leave the compound.

*********

She sat on a couch and cried.
How could Michael do that to her? He didn't even respect the fact that she was around and he was busy, flirting and kissing another woman. How could he?

Her thoughts were interrupted by footsteps coming down the stairs.
She watched Michael walk up to her. He dropped a bundle of money on the table and started going out.

"Michael?"

"Hmmm?" He turned around.

"Why? Have I offended you in anyway?"

"Yes. Why will you hit me? Are you nuts? This is my house and I owe no explanations to you for anything that I do. Throughout my marriage with your sister, she never lifted a hand to me. You're lucky that Chantel stopped me becsuse I was ready to teach you manners. Take that money and get yourself to the hospital. And hey, my dinner better be ready by the time I'm back."

He turned his back on her and left the house.

"So are you happy?"

"I'm not. But I've got this feeling that I did the right thing and trust me, I'm not regretting it."

"What about Ebere? Don't you think you left her in harm's way?"

"Kel, I think leaving her back there was the right thing to do. Michael should come to terms that she's pregnant for him and he'll take responsibilities for his actions."

"Hmmm. I don't know what to say Claire. My head is spinning upon hearing this news. You know, I was hoping that somehow, you two can patch things up but........"

"Kelvin, I won't advice any woman to remain in such a marriage. It's not even an outsider but my sister, my baby sister, then my worker. And he's not showing remorse. If I stay, I'll be signing my death warrant because I'll die of heartbreak."

"I understand Claire. Did Chief call you?"

"He has not called, but I'm expecting his call."

"I spoke with him, he's not happy."

"I won't be happy if I'm in his shoes."

"But I took time to explain everything to him. His only word against you was that you didn't tell him."

"How could I kel? I was hoping for a miracle. I was thinking that I'll wake up one day and realise it has been a dream."

"Claire, just follow your heart. Know that I'll always support you in any decision you take."

"Thanks kelvin."

"You're welcome baby. I've got news."

"Hmmm. Tell me."

"Chief and I will be going to Edo next week for the introduction. We'll fix the big date after that.'

"Wow! This is great. A wonderful way to start my Monday. Congrats Kel."

"Thanks baby. And then a request. Don't say no."

"Hmmm. Lemme hear it."

"My wife will be needing your help with arrangements and wedding planning. I......."

"Say no more my dear. I'll call her up immediately."

"Oh wow! Thanks. You're a Darling."

"Anything for my best friend."

"Come join me for breakfast."

"Oops. Mine is getting cold. I'll talk to you after I've spoken to our wife."

They laughed and said their goodbyes.

Claire looked around her new room. It would take time getting used to it.
It was bigger and well decorated. She'll start afresh from here.
She survived Michael, she would survive any predicament.


********
She breezed into the sitting room happily, sighted Michael and ran to him, sitting on his laps excitedly.

"Thank you baby. I was angry and very moody yesterday that I couldn't come down to support you but don't worry. I'm here for you, forever and always. She's out of our lives for good and I'll never give you a reason to remember she ever existed." She pecked his forehead.

He looked at her.
Why the hatred? He had never seen a sister who hated her own blood the way Amara hates Claire. Why?
They have never been like that. Amara was sassy, yes, but she loved and respected Claire. What happened?

"Baby? You're not saying anything."

"Chief called me. He's not happy with me. Nobody is happy with me." He looked away

"It's okay. Its going to be hard for them to understand how much we love each other but with time, they'll see that our Union is made in heaven and they'll have no choice but to accept us. You love me and that is all I want for now."

His heart crushed into a thousand pieces upon hearing her last statement.
He shook his head.

"That's enough. Breakfast has been served." She stood up and pulled him up too

"I'm not hungry."

"I won't take that. We'll eat and go upstairs. We still have the hospital to go to plus you have to resume work. I don't want you thinking about anything right now. Let's go.'

He smiled.

"Who made breakfast?"

"Ebere did."

His smile turned sour as he walked behind her. He would give her time before he read the rules to her.
She would do the cooking in the house even if there are a thousand employees. He would give her time, yes.

***********
She finished her call with Gertrude, forwarded a text to Kelvin and switched her phone off.
Her phone has been ringing since morning, everyone wanted to get the juicy news from her. She wondered how people's personal life suddenly turns to a public opinion.
She was sure her socil media accounts would be flooding with messrges now.
Her phone would be off for now till she is ready to answer people's questions.


**********

Chantel tried again but the number was still switched off.
What kind of friend was she? She had gone on a date with her old time classmate and she wasn't there to support her friend on a day she needed attention the most.
She threw her phone on the bed and rushed to the bathroom.
She would go to the Njama house, Michael would know where she moved to. Or, she might be lucky and still find her in the house.

prodekul:
hmmmm, pamelaB my writer,na so person go help you finish this story.why d delay in updates ni.


happy Sunday.

you can help me with it ma'am.


Happy sunday

********

He watched her sign the papers, the last of the divorce papers, the property papers and the receipt to the house.
They were officially separated.
He had watched her send boxes downstairs immediately she returned from the movie premiere that morning. He didn't know when a driver came to pick them up but he had suddenly felt the emptiness already in the house.
His eyes suddenly went to his lawyer, James, who shook his head at him and went back to directing Claire on what to do.
He prayed silently that he had made a wise decision.

**********

"Thanks James. I better pick the rest of my things from my former room before my time runs up."

"I just want you to be happy."

"I'm happy James. Once again, thank you."

"You're welcome."

Claire stood up, adjusted her denim gown and left the sitting room. She had just her handbag, make up kit and a few underwears to pick up from the room. Chika had gone with the rest to the new house.
She climbed the stairs, a new feeling washing through her.
She just knew it, she had made the right decision.

She got to her room and met Ebere crying. They had not gotten the time to talk, or maybe, she didn't want to listen to the infidelity story of her husband.

"Ebere?"

The helper looked up and broke down automatically. Claire went to her and held her warmly

"It's okay. Ssshhh."

"I'm sorry. For....forgive me." She sobbed

"I know. I know. Stop crying."

She held Ebere comfortingly, searching for the right words to say to her.

"Let me go with you please."

"You will. But not now my dear, not now. The father of your child needs to take care of you. He needs to accept you and this child. Miles apart won't give you this. You need to stay here. I'll call you frequently and you have my house address."

"She'll kill me. She'll kill......"

"Nobody will kill you. I need you to think about all I've just said right now. Running from this house will do you no good."

She stood up and went to her table where she had dropped her handbag.
She brought out a bundle of cash and went back to the bed.

"Here. I need you to be healthy. Take care of yourself for me please."

Ebere nodded and found herself in her boss's embrace.

"You'll be fine okay? Now, come and help me send this bags downstairs before the sorceress descends on me here."

Ebere smiled.
She'd miss this woman.

*******

"I am really disappointed in you Mike. Even if you want to divorce your wife, must it be because of her sister? There are a thousand and one women out there Mike." James reprimanded angrily

"But the girl is pregnant."

"And so what? Were you blindfolded when you went digging into her well?"

They were outside the house, leaning on James' car. He was angry with Michael and he needed to ring some things in his head

"Did you ever think of what the society will say about you and the stupid girl who's happily destroying her sister's family? Did you think of what will be left of your image in the business world? The man who's a father figure to you, what will he say? Michael, you've really disappointed a lot of people."

Michael was about to respond when Ebere came out with a box and small kit, followed by Claire.

"Are you with my car key?"

"Yes madam."

"Alright."

She walked past the two men, straight to her car, without saying a word to any of them.
Ebere helped her put the bags in and shut the door.

"I go mizz you maram." Raheem said as he walked up to them.

"I'll mizz you too Raheem." She replied, mimicking his way of speaking causing Ebere and Raheem to laugh heartily.

"Just take care of yourself hmm?"

Raheem nodded.

"Open the gate then. Ebere, call me if something comes up."

Ebere nodded just as Raheem ran off to the gate.

Claire cast a long glance at what used to be her matrimonial home and with a sigh, she got into her car and drove out.

********

He watched her leave, pain and regret running in his head.
Tears pricked his ears and he looked away.




Is it too late for Michael?

stephenGee12:
Cyber5 I saw u veiwing just now bro.

Hadampson, souloho19, meneski, boffinjay, dhammybiz, kimberlywest , kimkardashian, queenitee, yungeez, lleigh, evajael, pamelb, rachealfst, alamiendagash, ikombe, hormobolanle, mhizdhebee, dopeyomi, gtin, wizsolzy, chumzypinky, emperor380 and others a new update is here

Hope y'all like it.

thanks for d dedication dear. And mum is doing well now

Thank you all for your contributions and show of affection to my mum's health.
She's getting better now, though it's the reason why the story went on a break.
I thank those of us who understand and still kept the thread alive. I heart you all a lot.

Thanks and God bless you

"That's not how to settle dispute Mike. We'll have to hear what really happened so Chika, I'm all ears."

Chika recounted to them the drama that had happened in the room, not mixing a single word of it.

"Fine. If you walked away, what then is this?" Claire asked

"I was coming to report to you. I went up to your room but you were not there. I came down and it was at this particular spot that I felt a bottle crash on my head. I fell and landed on the centre table. Madam, I've stayed with you for a while now, you know how I don't respond to angry words or fight but she called my mother a dog, that was the height of it and I had to hit her."

There was silence in the room. Nobody said a word. You could here a pin drop

"I want to know, when you got up from the centre table, did you hit her?" Michael asked

"No sir."

"Why?"

"Because it's not in my nature to fight people. I was about walking away when she started cursing me."

"Amara, is she saying the truth?" Michael asked

"What you should be concerned about is that she hit me, and I'm pregnant with your child Mike."

"Pregnancy is not an excuse for you to be stupid Amara. Now look at your condition. Not only that, you hit your fellow woman on the head, with a bottle, what if she had fallen and something happened to her? What will you tell her family?"

"Are you shouting at me? In front of this low lives? You're shouting on me?"

"I'm telling your wrongs to you Amara. If my wife had not insisted that we hear what happened, she would have gone in for something that's entirely your fault. I don't want a repetition of this nonsense in my house."

He stood up and left the sitting room without looking back at any of them.

"You two would go to the hospital." Claire added, signalling to Chika to stand up.

"Learn to control your temper in the face of all provocations. She's pregnant and if anything happens to her, nobody will ask you what she did to you. Shower and get ready hmm, I'll give you some money so you can go to the hospital. Same with you Amara."

But she was far from them.
Bodily present and absent minded.
That was her condition at that moment.

He had referred to her as his wife. Then what is she?
He had reprimanded her in front of the employees and the so called wife.
When will she ever be recognised in the House? When will he start treating her the way he used to treat Claire?
What jazz did Claire use that despite everything that had happened, he still respected her wishes? She held her head and the pain sank deap.
She had never felt this way before. How dare Michael?

"Ebere! Ebere!" Michael's voice rang out from the stairs, interrupting her thoughts.

"Yes sir!"

"Get this place cleaned up. I'm going out to get a new centre table. This place better be set and ready by the time I'm back."

"Yes sir."

He walked to her and she looked away

"Come, I'll drop you at the hospital."

"I'm not going."

"Why? Look at you."

"Like you care?"

"You're carrying my child so it's enough for me to care. Listen, it took my pride to call back the station and ask them not to come because if they'd showed up, i would have handed you over to them."

"What?"

"Yes. I see no reason why you will go into their room and pull the stunt you pulled there. Or even hit your fellow woman with a bottle. Whatever that girl did to you is very very justified. I've been with Claire for like how many years now, and all those years, she never did as much as exchange words with anybody and you, just a week and some days in this house you're already playing tigress. Now, see the result. You're full of bruises and the girl doesn't even have a scratch. Miss Tigress."

He dropped some money on the table and gave her an intimidating stare

"Take yourself to the hospital if you don't join me in the next ten minutes."

He left the sitting room without looking back to see her break down in tears.

Phil sat down still, lots of thoughts going through his head.
He would just let her be.
She needed time and he had all the time in the world. He would wait for her.
His phone beeped, a text message from Enatel;

"That didn't go well right? But I saw it in her eyes, she has something for you bro. Don't worry, you've got my support now so this is going to work out. And before you start asking questions, I'm two tables behind you."

Phil quickly turned around, his eyes coming in contact with that of Enatel. They stood up at once and Enatel walked to him, embrassing him lovingly.

"Ive missed you bro. And you left me in a foreign country cause of a woman." Enatel said

They laughed

"But the woman is thick and pretty, I must say." He complimented, giving him a handshake.

They sat down, Enatel occupying the space Claire had left.

"Yes, thank you but I don't want you staring at her. But, how come you know I'm here?"

"I got mysterious powers from Switzerland."

Phil looked at him suspiciously

"You know I don't understand you this days."

"Wanted to show up at your office so we can go to the house together, throw up a party for my return you know, but God blessed me that my cab got there before you drove off, so, patient Enatel just had to follow you."

"You're a pro$titute, trust me."

"I know, I know. But that woman is damn pretty."

"Uhm, how was your trip?"

"Hehehe. Trying to switch topics abi? Calm down. Na you get am."

They laughed and Phil ordered drinks for their table.
He had missed his friend.


**********

Saturday morning came with all the laziness in the world.
Chika tossed on the bed.
She had returned very late the previous day and had gone straight to bed due to weakness.
The new house was big and the workers there didn't know left from right.
She was about kneeling down to do her morning rituals when the door suddenly was thrown open, giving her the shock of her life.

"You this lazy lots, you're forgetting what day of the week today is huh!"

It was the noisemaker, Amara.

Chika knelt down, turning her back to the intruder and started with the sign of the cross, only to feel a heavy slap on her back.
The pain went through her back as she stretched her hand to rub it, ignoring the person who had hot her.

Ebere came out of the bathroom tying a towel, she looked from Amara to Chika who was kneeling and giving her back a soft rub.

"What's happening?" Ebere asked

"Ask your mother and your father what's happening. You have mouth to speak so talk nonsense. Baboon. You two are still in bed, on a Saturday and you dare to ask me what's happening. Ara o na agba gi?"

"Ebere, are you done?" Chika stood up after doing the sign of the cross, ignoring Amara

"No. I heard the slap and rushed out. What happened?"

"It's nothing serious. Hurry up, you know I still have to go back to the new house."

Ebere nodded and went back to the bathroom.
Chika walked to the open door and faced Amara who was boiling with rage at Chika's reaction

"You've woken us up so please, leave the room."

"What! Are you asking me out of this room? In my husband's house?"

"Fine. Stay if you want."

And with that, she left the room, banging the door behind her.

************

Claire drove into the house around 10:00am. She had gone to the gym to do a little work out. She came down and was about entering the house when Ebere suddenly rushed out

"Good morning madam. The house is on fire, thank God you're here."

"What's happening? You look like you've gone to hell and came back."

"Chika and Amara had a fight."

"Verbal fight or physical fight?"

"Both. And madam, Mr Michael has called the police. They'll be here soon."

"This is bad. Where are they now?"

"In the sitting room."

Claire nodded and went in.
The sitting room was a sight for sore eyes. The centre table was broken,there were glasses lying around, Amara's forehead was bleeding and she was spotting a black eye. Chika was kneeling down but there was nothing on her, not even a scratch.
It was obvious that it was not a fight. Chika had beaten Amara.

"What's going on here?" Claire said and everyone turned to her

"Your employee caused chaos here and I won't take it soft." Michael responded

"Okay. It's obvious but what really happened? Amara?"

Amara looked her over and hissed, looking away.

"Okay. Chika?"

"Why are you asking questions? I've called the police already."

"But they've got rights to say what happened between them. Or have you heard the details in full?"

"I don't care. This pig here made a mistake by touching Amara so it's already a big crime. And you can see the evidence around. I won't spare her."

Amara was the first to leave the dinning. Her sister's words sank in properly in her head.
She had been there when Claire and Michael started; it was all lovely and heavenly made. And of course she was there when things fell apart.
Now, her sister has brought to her notice that its very much possible that things will still change even with her.
She walked into the room she shared with Michael and bolted the door. She needed some time to think. Tomorrow will end it all; divorce papers and house papers. It will all end tomorrow.


*********

She smoothened her face with a brush and looked at the mirror again.
She had done a light make up, she didn't plan to stay out long.
She picked a denim pant and yellow top, she wasn't in the mood to look expensive.
She picked her phone and left the room, securing it properly before leaving.

************

She found a parking space immediately she drove into Sheraton.
She parked her car and alighted, looking around for a familiar face.
She dialed his number and he picked immediately,

"I'm outside Phil. Where are you?"

"Do I come and get you? I'm inside."

"Don't stress. Be on the look out, I'll walk in now."

"Alright."

She ended the call and made sure her car was properly locked before leaving the parking lot.


**************
"Amara open the door right now." Michael ordered

He had been outside since Claire left and when he made an attempt to go to his room, he found out that Amara had locked it from inside. He had knocked for a while but she wouldn't bulge.

"Amara I........"

The door opened and he saw her on time going back to the bed.
He walked in angrily, banging the door in the process.

"You now lock me outside my own room? Are you okay?"

"Yes I'm fine. Since you can't speak up for your wife and unborn child. Michael what am I doing here? Who am I to you? Put a name to this relationship so that Claire won't talk to me in the manner she did hours ago."

He opened his mouth to speak but words failed him.

"Amara......."

"Don't call my name Mike. Do something as a man. She keeps cursing you and saying mean things and you keep quiet. I know you won't do all that to me, I know I'm not like her and you won't do all those things to me so be a man and take this shame off my face. Put a name to what we're doing."

"I'm yet to divorce your sister.*

"She's not my sister. Tomorrow, all this will end and if you don't get married to me, I'll leave with my unborn child and you'll never set your eyes on any of us again."

She stood up and left the room.
He was confused, he didn't want to loose the baby and Amara, he scratched his head, he was a failure as man. He no longer went to work and tomorrow, his life would be decided in a piece of paper.
He sat on the bed and scratched his head again. He still had Ebere on the other hand.
He was indeed, a failure.

**********

"I don't want to take anything Phil. Stop asking."

"Okay. I'm sorry. How was your day?"

"Listen Phil, I'm here for a reason and that is to......."

"I know. You don't want anything with me, I know but why not give me a chance to prove myself? I'm not a bad person......."

"The same thing my husband said to me."

He breathed out.
This was going to be hard.

"Claire......"

"Tomorrow holds everything. My status as a married woman ends tomorrow, after tomorrow, I'm nothing. A marriage I worked so hard for, a man I lived for, so what's the point of giving someone else a chance when they'll claim to be good at the beginning only to show you the stuff they're made of later?"

"I'm Phillip not Michael or someone else. I'm not saying I'm different but just give me a chance, let me take care of you, let me give you happiness Claire. I love you and I won't be complete without you."

"But I....."

"The first day I ran into your car, I had concluded on that spot that you're the woman for me, I called you the mother of my kids Claire. Can't you see how hard I fell for you? Don't let your past experience ruin your future Claire."

"Thank you Phil. I beg to take my leave now."

He watched her stand up and without saying a word, she left.
He closed his eyes as hr could feel the tears warming up in his head

"You'll join me in the dinning." Claire said as they served the meal in two ceramic plates.

"I've not showered yet madam. Please, let me eat in my room."

"Okay. I'll be going out after eating but we'll talk when I come back."

"Thank you madam. This food looks delicious. I've missed your meals."

Claire laughed heartily

"Same here dear. You go ahead now."

"Thank you."

Ebere walked out of the kitchen, carrying her tray of food and water.
She has never been this happy since she found out she was pregnant.
Her boss was a good woman, no doubt, and she felt bad for eating from her pot of soup. But did she learn from it? You bet she did.

Claire carried her own tray to the dinning. She dropped it and went back to get a pack of juice. She came back and settled down to eat, saying a prayer of thanks first.


**********

Mr Phillip looked at his wrist watch, it was some minutes to six. He would round up from here and then call Claire.
He prayed his meeting with her that evening would yield a positive result.
He was crazy about her but what's better than to respect her decisions?
He rang the intercom and invited his secretary to his office.
She was a married woman and she would advice him better.

A light knock came on his door and he asked her in, wishing he had a good relationship with his mother. She would have been the one he would have ran to, but then.......

**********

She bit into her chicken and savoured the taste. She had missed this taste.
She ate her food in silence, her phone being the only distraction with notifications from different apps.
She won't pause her delicious meal for something she can do later.

She was almost done with the noodles when Michael entered the dinning.
He pulled out a chair and sat down.

"Hi." He said with a smile

"Hi." Claire replied, giving her meal the necessary concentration.

**********

He watched her eat without minding his presence. She took the last of the noodle and picked her chicken, tearing away without looking at him

"Ebere!" He called out but got no response.

He called twice again before she came in a rush.

"Sorry sir. I was ........"

"Shut up and serve me. I'm starving." He said with a wave of his hand.

Ebere looked at Claire who was busy with devouring her chicken, then back to Phil who was drinking a cup of water.

"Why are you still standing there you slowpoke? Go and serve me before I have your job."

"But sir, there's no food for you sir."

"What? What did you just say? Claire?" He stood angrily

To his surprise, Claire didn't say a word, she just finished her chicken, sipped the last of her juice and stood up with her now empty tray.

"Claire, I repeat, what is the meaning of this?"

"Meaning of what?" She asked innocently, like she was just stepping into the dinning that instant.

"You don't ask me that. How can you cook for just yourself in this house, forgetting that you're not living alone." He thundered

"Michael, please. It's my house and I've got the right to Cook whatever I want to eat, for me and myself alone. If you're hungry, you know the way to the kitchen."

"Claire!"

"Don't scream my name like that please. Its still my house and I call the shots here. Simple. Ebere, take this tray and go back to your room when you're done."

"Yes madam."

Ebere took the tray from her and left the dinning.

Claire turned to leave but Michael held her.

"This is not the end of this."

"You don't need to tell me because I know. Listen, when you married me, I did all of your cooking for you, right now, we're no longer married so let your new wife get herself up from her bed and prepare a decent meal for you."

"We have not yet been declared divorced so you're still my wife."

"We signed the papers already and all this is just for formality sake Mike. Don't forget, you already got yourself a new wife." Claire threw at him

"Is that jealousy I hear in your voice big sis?" Amara walked into the dinning.

"Not jealousy baby sis, I'm just reminding your husband that it's time you start taking care of him as the wife that you are."

"Of course I'm taking care of him already." Amara said, wrapping her arms around Michael

"Taking care of a man isn't all about screaming at night. Cook delicious meals for him, do his laundry, close the WC when he leaves it open, know the colours of ties he wears every day of the week, know his time table of activities at the back of your mind and most importantly, stay awake and wait for him when he's busy forking his secretary. And I won't forget, turn into his punching bag when you become fat from pregnancy. I did all that for Mike so try to beat that record."

Confusion, anger, hatred, satisfaction, happiness and guilt filled the faces of the three individuals in the dinning room.

"If you'll excuse me, I've got a date by seven."

And with that, she walked out of the dinning room, leaving the couple in their mixed feelings

Gloryejims:
https://www.nairaland.com/3687646/united-betrayal by pamelB

https://www.nairaland.com/3831055/love-hiccups by Kimberlywest

https://www.nairaland.com/3760470/meant by marianneada

https://www.nairaland.com/1547788/husband by flakkydagirl

tanx dear

rachealfst:
United in Betrayal by PamelB

https://www.nairaland.com/3687646/united-betrayal

This is a story of a family, Micheal who obviously isn't patient and thoughtful almost tore his family apart and just when he thought he has gotten his family back, something else sea to be happening, it looks like someone else wants his home broken. Find out who and why? I'm sure you won't want to miss this story.

tanx for d mention dear

"I don't understand you at all baby. Why do you keep begging her for everything? She should go to hell for all I care. Just buy the house let's kick her out as soon as possible. Can you imagine? I'm pregnant and she won't let me eat what my baby wants. I'm so sick of her." Amara complains

"When do you wanna start your ante natal?"

His question threw her off guard. She was expecting him to at least say a word about her maltreatment from Claire but......

"Honey, is that what you have to ask me? Someone is maltreating your pregnant wife and all you care about is the ante natal."

"My baby is also important here. Whatever you want to eat, we can get it from five star or Kilimanjaro but my baby should come first."

She heaved a sigh

"You're right. The tension and all this recent happenings have stopped me from thinking straight. I know a hospital nearby. We can go and get registered."

"When?"

"Next week. So I can make enquiries."

"Alright. Stop bothering about Claire. Your health and that of my baby should come first now. Let me handle every other thing."

"Yes baby. Thanks for loving me like this."

She cuddled up to him and he held her, his eyes, silently searching the ceiling for answers.

**********

"Hi Claire." Chantel said into the phone.

"Hi babe. What's up?"

"I'm fine. Remember the premiere. It's tomorrow."

"Yes I do. But I doubt if I'll be going."

"Oh no. Please Claire. Are you at home?"

"Yes but I'm about to step out now. You want us to see?"

"I want to lie down flat and beg you nau. My friends and I are looking forward to this premiere. Or you don't want me to meet with my crush ehn? You don't want me to ogle him from afar nne?"

Claire laughed.

"You're such a pathetic lover. Okay. Come to the house then by 7 tomorrow. We'll go from here. If you're a minute late, I'm cancelling."

"Yes o. In fact, I'll be one hour early."

They both laughed.

"Alright. Tomorrow then."

"Take care."

Claire disconnected the call and heaved a sigh. She checked the time and it was few minutes past five. She needed to get dressed for her appointment with Phil but first, she would put something in her stomach.

She stood up and left the room. She would quickly make noodles and heat up the chicken. Its been long she ate what she cooked herself. She missed her former self, where she did everything on her own but she'll wait. By Sunday, she'll be single and the quest for vengeance won't follow her to her new home where she'll go back to being that simple woman everyone loved.

She got to the kitchen and found Ebere sitting idly, looking into empty space.
She pulled out the second chair from the make shift dinning and sat down.

"Ebere?"

But the young woman was far from listening so she tapped her thigh.
She sprang up in fright and Claire smiled.

"Sorry madam. I....... I came to take water but I......
."

"I want to cook. You'll keep me company right?" Claire asked with a smile

"Ma.....madam....."

"We have today and tomorrow to talk about what happened hmm? Be free with me. I'm not angry anymore."

"I'm sorry madam. It's all my fault. I......"

"Ebere, we'll talk about it later. I'm sure you're hungry because nobody had lunch in this house. Don't worry eh? I'll keep you company if you don't want to keep me company."

"No madam. I'll keep you company." Ebere said, quickly wiping the tears off her eyes.

"Good. I'll do the chop the carrots while you take care of the baked corn and peas. We're cooking for two, just you and I. Chika isn't back yet."

As much as Ebere wanted to ask why she didn't involve Amara and Michael, she still nodded, ready to relish in her new found forgiveness.


************

Phil gently dropped Amara on the bed. She had fallen asleep while they cuddled.
What was that smell again? Claire was cooking. He was sure of that.
The house knew whenever she was in the kitchen. He was sure the neighborhood knew too. Her culinary skills were unbeatable. He got down from the bed and went to the bathroom to wash his mouth.
It was time to eat a good meal.







Thanks guys for your prayers and suggestions. God bless you all

He walked down the stairs, wondering why she sent for him.
Maybe she wants them to settle things amicably or she wants them to have a heart to heart talk. But she was already making preparations to leave the house and he hadn't even sorted things out with the stupid Ebere.
He hissed and finished his descent down the stairs.
He walked to the sitting room where she was setting her new phone and his heart skipped beats.
She was glowing.

"You sent for me." He lowered himself to an opposite couch

"Yes. I want us to discuss your method of payment. I'm beating down the prize to 42million."

He looked at her in shock. They had spent up to a hundred and fifty million on the house, the building and the interior decoration plus the furniture. Why would she sell it for such a meagre sum?

"42? But why?"

"Because I take it that I'm giving this house away. I wouldn't want you and your pregnant wives to be homeless. I'm not that heartless."

"Claire please. Why are you doing this to me? Haven't you punished me enough? I've realised my.........."

"Method of payment?"

He opened his mouth but nothing came out. She had grown a thick skin and he'll have to do something about it.

"Get the documents ready. I'll pay by tomorrow evening. I'll have to consult my lawyer and accountant."

"Okay. That's nice."

She stood up and picked her phone

"Excuse me."

With that, she walked out, swaying her hips sensually.
He cursed. This was getting out of hand and he need to deal with it.
Since she didn't want the gentle approach, he'll try the alternative.

**********

"Take care of yourself okay?" Kelvin said, hugging her warmly.

"You too."

"Tell your uncle that my family and I will see him in a fortnight."

She smiled.
They were at the airport. She was going back to Edo.
They had spent the entire week warming up to each other.
Gertrude had found it difficult to be with him but he gave her time. He understood and his love for her wasn't pushy at all.
She, on her part had also done her best to look appealing to him.
They had visited chief and he gave his blessings without asking questions or showing doubts.
He had welcomed her to the family and promised to support her in any way he can.

Now, it was time to go and she couldn't let go of him.
Her flight was announced and she held her fiancé's hand.

"I'll miss you dear." She confessed

He smiled. He was happy to hear that from her. She doesn't speak much but this was enough

"I'll miss you too honey. Call me as soon as your plane lands hmm?"

She nodded and stood up and again, they shared a loving hug.
He watched her leave, satisfaction filling every vein in his body.
He was happy.
He made the right choice.
It was time to call his Claire, they have a wedding to organise


***********

"Ebere!" Amara called out from upstairs.
She had made a mental note never to send Chika on any errand since she doesn't give her respect.
But Ebere was withdrawn, doesn't speak much and would be a pawn in her hands

"Ebere!!!" She screamed

Ebere rushed out of her room and ran upstairs, meeting the angry Amara in the balcony

"Fool. Idiot. You want me to shout out my lungs before you answer me eh kwa?"

"I'm sorry ma. I was sleeping."

"Eh? You were gini? Oya kneel down "

Ebere quickly got on her knees, tears welling up in her eyes.

"You're sleeping. You didn't notice I didn't come down for breakfast and that I'll be hungry by now? Fool." He kicked her.

"I'm sorry ma.*

"Sorry for your miserable life. I want you to make me white soup with pounded yam now. There's catfish and cow skin in the freezer. It better be delicious or I'll roast you alive. Idiot."

She kicked her again and made to go out when she bumped into Claire.

"Catfish and cow skin. Did you buy them yourself?" Claire threw at her and she hissed.

"And you, if I see you in my kitchen, no, if I sniff you in my kitchen, I'll make sure I cut your double self into tiny pieces." She said to Ebere who was sobbing

"My husband is buying this house." Amara retorted angrily.

"Is buying. He hasn't given me a dime yet so for now, the house is mine and you'll manage whatever I give you in this house. You'll eat what and when every other person eats, pregnant or not."

"Now I see, you are jealous and want to kill my baby right? It won't......."

"No my dear. But I pray your so called husband doesn't beat that baby out of you when its eventually the two of you in this house and you'll have no one to do your chores. Rubbish."

She walked out and Amara stared wickedly at her.
Ebere slowly crept out, wondering what her own fate would be.



Guys, pray for my mum please.
She's sick.
Her BP is running 210/150.
We need your prayers biko

"Even the bible says that old things has passed away. Sister Sarah here realised her mistake and she gave her life to Christ. So sister, you shouldn't judge her with her past life." Millicent concluded.

"Oh! Right! Anyways, I'm not in the mood for this okay? You two should excuse me. I need to go home." Amara said and walked out.

"Sister Sarah, let's go, the good Lord will fish her out when the time comes."

Sarah nodded, stifling a cough and they began to walk down.

"Hope you're taking your medication?"

"I don't want to take them anymore. What's the point? I'll still die."

"No Sister Sarah, don't talk like that. My friend in Cameroon said there are native herbs that can cure HIV though they're expensive. I'll...."

"Let me pay for my sins Sister Millicent."

And with that, Sarah walked down to the bus stand.

She had left Enugu after she was discharged and the first thing she did was to return to Lagos where people knew her. She had visited the church she used to worship and without mincing words, told the congregation about her life, not for pity but for them to learn from her own mistakes.
Today, she was proud of the life she was living. People stared, they talked but what did the bible say? Cast all your worries and pains to the Almighty and that is what she's doing.


*********

She just dropped her iPad after ordering for a new phone and speaking quickly with her lawyer.
She sipped from her glass and dropped it, catching sight of an approaching shadow.
Michael came into view, wearing a short and BYC polo.

"Hi." He said settling beside her and putting his legs into the cool water.

"Hi."

She stepped into the water, allowing him a view of her backside before dipping her entire length in the water.

"You said you wanted us to talk." She continued.

"Uhm, yes. You also wanted us to talk." He replied, taking his eyes away from her body

"Yes. I'm selling the house. My lawyer is already telling me about people who are interested in the house. I just thought to tell you so you'll start packing up."

His head increased to double of its previous side and his heart beat increased.
Whatever thought he had in his head as to getting cozy with her disappeared immediately.

"You're selling my house?*

"Point of correction dear, it's my house now." She turned to face him properly.

"But you can't. There are so many memories of us here. This is our first investment you're forgetting. We started our family from here. Why would you want to sell it?"

"Because it's my house. I want to reduce the number of properties in my name so I've got every right to sell it. As for the memories, this house holds nothing but pain, suffering, heart break and deceit. Again, another big reason to sell it." She stepped out of the water.

"Claire, please. Don't do this." He stood up to face her.

"Don't do what! Its my house, my property, my.. ......"

"I know I wronged you but this punishment is too much for me. I'm sorry Claire."

"Save it Michael. Its no use."

She picked her towel and iPad and made to walk away.

"I'll buy the house." Michael said, surprising her.

She spun around and smiled at him.

"Nice. I'll get the papers tomorrow and we'll do the needful. Goodnight Mike. You can continue with the drink."

She turned her back to him and walked into the house.

He stood there, looking at her and cursing himself for ruining his family.
He sat down where she had occupied earlier and took the glass cup, he sipped from it and stared into the far darkness.
He messed up.


*************

Breakfast was light and very quiet.
Nobody said a word to the other.
Amara didn't come down for breakfast and Michael didn't bother to know why.

Claire sat in the living room, watching an episode of "the Johnsons" which she missed the previous day.
Her IPad rang and she picked the call.

"Okay. Get it delivered to my address right away. Thank you."

She ended the call and called Chika who came running to her immediately.

"Yes. Dress up, there's a house address there at the centre table. I want you to go and look at the house, make the necessary changes cause I'm sure you know my taste. There are helpers there already so just supervise the work there."

"Yes madam."

"One more thing. They'll show you the room I've told them is mine. You know what to do. Then when you come back, get your things ready cause we're moving out."

Chika giggled and did a courtesy before leaving the room.
Michael stared at her from the dinning and wondered why she had changed so drastically. He stood up and went upstairs to his room


********

"Morning darling." Amara greeted as soon as he stepped in

He looked at her. She was already on make up very early that morning.

"I'm buying the house. Your sister has put it up for sale."

She quickly jumped up and hugged him warmly

"That's why I love you. You always know how to put things through. At least, she won't have the nerves to throw us out. I love this house."

"The house or me?" He asked, looking at her facial expression

"Oh baby." She pulled him to the bed and they sat down.

"I couldn't imagine us leaving the house you've built with so much love and care. I enjoy staying here but you know I love you so very much."

He nodded.
His Claire wouldn't have said that.