Missyajoke:
This is dope

Thanks, welcome....

rachealfst:
Thanks, welcome....

Can you explain the payment method on okada books as it is rejecting my atm card.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 4
It was Temidun. She opened her mouth and quickly used her right hand to cover it, because she doubt if she wouldn’t scream for them to hear. She saw Kayode stood up from the bed, then she quickly left the window side and went to the door. The door opened and Kayode stormed out of his room and bumped into Iwalade.
“Iwalade.” He said with jaw dropped.
“Kayode, go back in there and be the gentle man your mum raised you to be.” Iwalade ordered. Kayode eyed her and went back inside. He carried Temidun into the bathroom for her to wash herself. He left her in the bathroom to wash up and went back into the room. He changed the stained bedsheet and then went back to the bathroom door and knocked.
“Temidun, are you through?” He asked but she didn’t reply. He can still hear her sobbing. So he went in. “Are you through?” He asked her again. She nodded and he led her into the room and made her sit on the well laid bed.
Kayode sat beside Temidun, he pulled her into his arms and whispered, “I’m sorry.” into her ears.
“Sorry for what exactly, for taking my virginity or for treating me like a piece of trash after relieving yourself. For God sake you even moan Iwalade’s name after giving myself up as the sacrificial lamb.” Temidun said calmly amidst tears.
“But you made me do it.” Kayode pointed out calmly but Temidun did not say anything as touching that because right inside her she is only praying she wouldn’t regret her action for the rest of her life. “Iwalade is outside.” Kayode informed her.
“What!” Temidun almost jumped out of her skin. “Haa...how, I mean when.”
“I think she’s been around for a while. She knew someone is in here with me.”
“My God, so she heard every…….”
“See, I don’t know. I’m not sure, let me just get her.” He said and left the room and came back with Iwalade. Immediately Temidun set her eyes on her she broke down into tears. She was still on the bed clinging tightly to the pillow. Iwalade who just entered remain standing as she looked at her friend.
“Iwalade, I’m sorry….”
“Sorry! You don’t owe me an apology, you two are adults and you and I know I’m not dating him.” She said pointing to Kayode who sat on a chair at the corner of the room with his head bowed.
“Then why are you here? Iwalade, stop pretending as if you are not hurt, the three of us know what is going on here, so I owe you an apology.” Temidun said amidst tears.
“Temidun, you just lost your virginity to Kay and you are still apologizing to me!”
“Yes, because you are my best friend and I know you are in love with him too.”
“Temidun, just leave me out of the equation and fix your life first.” She said and turned to face Kayode. “Kay, what do you want to make out of everything that happened here today?”
“Iwalade, for me, it’s a moment of weakness.” He said and Temidun picked her things and walked out of the room immediately.
“Temidun!!” The two called out after her but she didn’t look back, she left weeping.
“God! I shouldn’t have said that in her presence.” Kayode said with a tone of regret.
“I shouldn’t have asked you that in her presence as well.” She said. The two of them are now standing face to face.
“Iwalade, why are you here?”
“Oh! I’m sorry for crashing your sex party.” She replied sarcastically.
“You know that is not what I mean. I mean I left your school this morning and…..”
“I broke up with him.” She cut in.
“Wow! Finally, that means……”
“We can now be together but unfortunately you just slept with our friend.”
“No…..no……Iwalade.” Kayode pleaded.
“No what? We can never happen again Kay. Don’t you get?”
“Get what Iwalade. You can’t do this to me after waiting for you my entire life.”
“You slept with Temidun and that changes everything. Go be with her, she loves you.”
“No, never. Iwalade, you can’t do this to us.”
“You did this to us this time Kay. You just took a girl’s innocence. She is your first too, so go be with her and be even.”
“Iwalade this is a joke right.”
“If this is a joke for me I won’t run down here immediately I broke up with my boyfriend but what do you expect me to do. Watch you break that girl’s heart?”
“I don’t love her, its’ you I love.”
“But you slept with her.” She said and burst into tears. He closed the gap between them and pulled her into his arms to calm her down and then he released her.
“I wasn’t thinking when I came back from your place, I was devastated. You know how that guy embarrassed me and…and…I got back and she was here. All I needed was a shoulder to cry on but it turned out…I don’t even know what to say again.” He said, confused.
“I came all the way here to say yes to everything we felt for each other but it’s as if the entire universe is against us coming together.” She said and Kayode sighed heavily.
“What next now?” He asked.
“Kay, go be with her. We’ll be fine.”
“Iwa!” He held her arm but she freed herself from him, her eyes still filled with tears.
“Goodbye Kay.” She said and left.
She got out and cleaned her face with a handkerchief; she took her phone from her handbag and placed a call through to Kayode, despite the fact that she was still outside his house.
“Text me her address.” She said and ended the call. Few seconds later, her phone beeped, she read the text and flagged down a bike.
Kayode in his room sat on the floor and cried uncontrollably, he knew Iwalade’s mind was already made up; she won’t be with him because of what he did to Temidun.
Iwalade got to Temidun’s room and knocked.
“Who’s there?” She asked quietly.
“It’s me, Iwalade.”
“Iwalade!” She said with surprise. She opened the door to see Iwalade’s spread arms which she walked into as tears streamed down from her eyes.
“It’s okay girl…just calm down.” Iwalade said patting her back and then released her.
“I’m sorry…..”
“Stop saying that. Sorry for what? A guy took advantage of you and you are saying you are….”
“He didn’t Iwalade, I did, I took advantage of his vulnerability when he came back destabilized. He didn’t want to; I made him to do it.” Temidun confessed.
“Stop blaming yourself.”
“Let me blame myself, I thought I saw a window, a chance to make him mine but still he didn’t choose me. You need to see the way he was rough with…..” Temidun was saying.
“Just save your breathe and calm down.” She said and made her sit on the bed. Iwalade too sat beside her and look around, her room was welcoming, it was beautiful but that wasn’t the time to give compliments.
“How are you feeling now?” Iwalade asked.
“I don’t know. I can’t believe my virginity is gone.”
“It’s okay; it has happened, it has happened, there is no point crying over spilled milk.”
“Iwalade…… I gave my virginity to a guy who will never be mine and you want me to just pretend as if I’m fine!”
“Never say never, my friend.”
“Fine! What about you?”
“I’m okay.”
“You are not. Iwalade, stop been matured about this. You can’t be okay. I mean you came all the way from your school to….to…..”
“Tell him I choose him over my ex boyfriend.”
“Ex boyfriend!”
“Yes, I broke up with him some hours ago.”
“I can’t come between the two of you Iwalade, it’s you he loves, he only sees me as his childhood friend.”
“Temidun, you’ve been a very good friend to me, I can never do that to you. Not after everything that happened between you and Kay today.”
“Iwala….”
“Drop it; I’ve made up my mind. Kay and I can’t be together. I only pray you two can get together.”
“Get together! What planet did you come from?”
“That’s the right thing to do Temidun. As for Kay, if he is yours, I believe he’ll come back to you.” She said and Temidun sighed.
Iwalade tried as much as possible to distract her friend and it works, they put their worries aside and got talking about other stuff. Iwalade spent the night at her friend’s place. Temidun was so happy because she really needed someone around her that night. Iwalade made dinner and the two friends ate together.
Kayode called Iwalade afterwards, luckily Temidun was in the bathroom.
“You shouldn’t be calling me, you know.”
“Why?” Kayode asked.
“You should call the girl you disflowered and not me.”
“Iwalade.”
“What?”
“You don’t need to remind me of that.”
“Really, Kay! So you won’t call to check up on her.”
“Where are you?”
“Still at her place, I’m passing the night here.”
“Really, I thought you’ve gone back to school.”
“I can’t leave her; I think she needs the company.”
“Okay. How is she?”
“Jesus! Are you asking me? She has a phone. Goodnight Kay.” She said when she realized the shower was no longer running. She quickly ended the call.

Missyajoke:


Can you explain the payment method on okada books as it is rejecting my atm card.

Maybe it's network issue. Or you can check if you give the correct details. Thanks.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

Chapter 4(continuation)
Temidun walked in. Iwalade pretended as if nothing happened. She watched Temidun as she changed into her night gown, she had taken her bath before her so the two lay on the bed to sleep, then Temidun’s phone rang.
“Iwalade, its Kayode calling.” She said with surprise written all over her face.
“Pick your call Temidun.” She said and backed her.
She picked the call and spoke with Kayode who asked after her well being, she told him, she was faring well, their conversation was so cold that Kayode quickly rounded up the call.
“He’s not happy.” Temidun said to her friend after the call ended but Iwalade didn’t answer her.
“Iwalade!”
“What nau….”
“I said he didn’t sound hap….”
“And that is none of your business. So, sleep.” Iwalade cut in.
“Okay.” She shrugged and few minutes later, she slept off.
Iwalade was just there on the bed with so many thought running through her mind, she was praying silently that she won’t regret her decision because she just let go of the only man she has ever loved because of another friend. Same goes for Kayode he couldn’t sleep, he kept on wondering how situations keep pulling him and the love of his life apart. If only he didn’t sleep with Temidun, Iwalade would have been his, finally but he messed up again. That night he cried and vowed that whatever he takes, he is going to have Iwalade back.
The next morning which was Saturday, as early as 5:30am, Iwalade had prepared herself, she wanted to leave early so that she can meet up for the program in her school fellowship, it’s a-day camp-out program which she couldn’t afford to miss, more so, that will be the last she’ll experience before she graduates.
Iwalade’s phone beeped, it was a text message from Kayode, she looked at her friend and she realized she was not looking. She clicked on the message to read.
‘When are you leaving?’
‘Texting this early! Anyway, I’m about to leave.’ She replied the text.
‘I’ll block you at the bus park.’ He text her back.
‘That wouldn’t be necessary; Temidun will see me off, Bye.’ She replied the text.
“I’m ready.” Iwalade informed her friend.
Temidun thanked her for staying around.
“That is the least I can do.” Iwalade said and the two hugged each other, after refraining from the hug, something struck Iwalade’s mind.
“Did you guys use protection?”
“No, we didn’t.” Temidun replied.
“Then, I advise you take care of yourself, to avoid unwanted pregnancy, if you don’t want your father to bury you alive.” Iwalade said because the Temidun’s father they all know can do worse.
“I will, thanks for calling my attention to that Iwalade.”
“Alright, till we see again, be good.”
“I will and you too.” Temidun said and saw her friend off to the park.”

******
It’s been more than three months that the drama happened and still Kayode wasn’t ready to have anything to do with Temidun. Iwalade tried her possible best to bring the two together but Kayode insisted that it’s rather her or no one else.
Things continue like that with the three friends who are still single and not dating till they all graduated and went for youth service. As fate will have it, Kayode and Temidun were posted to the same state and the same local government but different place of primary assignment. Also, they both lived in the same corpers’ lodge where Temidun is the only female among the five male corpers that lived in that corpers’ lodge.
Kayode who had planned to go and get another accommodation because of Temidun had to have a rethink. He couldn’t bear to leave his childhood friend with four other male corpers who are strangers, so because of that, he had to stay back. Temidun was so grateful when he realized that he had changed his mind about leaving.
When Iwalade got to know about the new development, she was so happy, she knew the two will bond this time around. Iwalade tried to mingle but it wasn’t working for her, so she decided to drop the idea of dating believing that one day, she will find that guy whose love will throw her off her feet. So she used that opportunity to work harder on her writing career.
As for Temidun and Kayode, Temidun made sure she took good care of his childhood friend during NYSC, she cooked for him, run his errands; she even went as far as doing his laundry. One day, one thing led to another and they had sex for the second time.
Kayode thought it was a mistake and tried not to let it happen again but Temidun didn’t help matters and before Kayode knew it, the two started having sex constantly and it happened all through their service year.
Kayode decided to open up to Iwalade; he told her everything that was going on between himself and Temidun. At first, Iwalade was happy that the two were finally together but on the second thought, she was scared for Temidun.
“Kayode do you love her?” Iwalade asked him one day when they were having their usual phone conversation.
“I don’t know.” He replied.
“So, it’s just the sex.”
“Iwalade, I won’t lie to you, it’s just the sex.” Kayode said truthfully.
“I hope you know this is unfair to her.”
“I didn’t ask for it Iwalade, she wanted it that way.” He tried defending his actions.
“Kayode, how could you. At least try to love her.”
“I’ll try. Can we talk about something else?”
“Yes, let’s talk about ending this conversation. I don’t feel like talking to you right now.”
“Iwa….what did I do now?”
“You will never see my good side until you treat that girl right.”
“You know you drove me into her hands.”
“Did you just say that to me? You know what; I’ll hang up right now.” She said and ended the call.
In the course of Iwalade’s youth service, she met with some people who actually helped her career; she started getting a lot of jobs to the extent that she did not even bother to look for job after her service year.

Back to Present
Kayode finished his food and cleared the table; he went back into the sitting room and sat beside Iwalade.
“Kayode, Temidun called few days back.”
“What did she say?”
“She met someone. I mean a guy.” Iwalade informed.
“Good for her.”
“It’s over a year now that you two broke up.”
“I think I know that. What exactly are you driving at?” He asked.
“You need to move on too.”
“And that’s why I’m here. We are free now; we can be together now that Temidun is out of the equation.” He said and Iwalade laughed scornfully.
“You must be out of your mind. Oh! You think I’ll marry you after you used Temidun and dumped her.”
“Point of correction, I didn’t dump her. She broke up with me.”
“Oh! You expect her to stay in a one sided relationship! You never loved her. You and I know that.”
“I tried Iwa. God sees my heart, I tried but there’s something missing in that relationship.” He said soberly.
“Maybe you two were not meant to be together.” Iwalade concluded.
“Maybe.” He shrugged. “I’m happy she’s moved on.”
“I’m happy too.”
“I know you are the one who talked sense into her. You even made her stopped having sex with me.”
“How did you know that?” Iwalade asked.
“I’m not stupid. You stood by her till the very end.”
“Kay, it’s not like….”
“The Temidun that I know wouldn’t have let go so easily without you influencing it.”
“Kay, I’m sorry….”
“It’s fine, you chose her over me right from the very beginning till now. I mean, you killed the feelings we had because of her.”
“Kay, she’s our friend. What do you expect me to do?”
“I expect you to choose the person you love.”
“I only did what was right.” Iwalade pointed out.
“More reasons why I still love you, you are a good person Iwalade. No one should blame me for refusing to let you go.”
“But you have to. I can’t be with you.” She said and this made him angry. He picked his car key and left. Iwalade sighed; she stood up and went out to lock the gate.
“I think I need a gateman.” She said to herself as she went back into the house.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 5
Iwalade got in and changed the sport channel Kayode was watching to a movie channel. Then her phone rang, and she knew immediately that it was the call she has been expecting, Fullhouse’s client. She picked the call and her guess was right.
Iwalade and the man striked a deal, she was given a three months ultimatum to finish the job and the man was willing to pay half a million. As they discuss, Iwalade took notes as she put down all the specifications and every other details she’ll need for the job.
After the phone call, Iwalade went through everything she put down, judging from the specifications; she would finish the job in a month. She hates disappointments, she never disappoints her clients. So she planned to start the job immediately and finish it in one month and just keep it till a month before the due date and then submit to her client. The man would have enough time to go through the job and if there’s any need for an amendments, she’ll then fix it before the third month that the contract ends. Although she has some scripts she needed to complete, she’ll make sure the project doesn’t affect the scripts.
Then she remembered she had to report back to Fullhouse. “Let me call Fullhouse.” She said to herself, checking her call log, he dialed his number. Iwalade explained everything to Fullhouse and he was glad that they were able to strike a deal.
“He’s paying #500,000.” She informed.
“Iwalade! First and foremost, you don’t need to tell me how much he is paying but is that money not too small.”
“Trust me, it’s not, there’s no big deal in the job, it’s not even up to two hundred pages. In fact, I’ll be through in a month and that’s because I have a lot of scripts to attend to, if not, it’s something I can finish in a week.” She explained.
“Really!”
“Yea, I’m not trying to be proud but trust me; I’m good at what I do.” She said and he smiled.
“I know it’s inborn, that’s not pride Iwalade, it’s what you know how to do best.” He said.
“Thank you………” She drawled. Making her family proud is what she had always dreamt of considering where she was coming from.
“You know what, since your charges are considerable, then I’ll introduce someone to you, he also needs a content writer. The reason why I did not mention it before was because I thought he won’t be able to afford you.”
“Imagine, now you know I’m not that expensive.”
“Says who? Iwalade you owe a house.”
“It’s a small house.”
“Small or big, house na house sis.” He said jokingly and they both laugh.
“I hear you.”
“Don’t worry; I’ll visit you once I come to Lagos.”
“I’ll be expecting you.” She said. They talk for few minutes and then she ended the call.

*******
Some weeks later, Iwalade had a meeting to attend on a Saturday morning with a well known film maker in the industry and she also love to keep to time. She used to fix her meetings on weekdays because she likes staying indoors on weekends but this particular client was busy all week, so they had to schedule for Saturday, 8am. She had to leave home as early as 7:00am.
She wished the meeting was virtual, she used to have her meeting via zoom when Covid 19 was intense but thankfully Covid has subsided in the country and it’s now business as usual. The federal government had lifted the ban they placed on businesses, religious gatherings and the rest, even people are now having parties, it’s just that you must wear your nose mask and all activities shouldn’t take longer hours.
After dressing up in a simple turtle neck gown because it rained the previous night and everywhere was cold. She took one medical nose mask from the pack she placed on her dressing table and left her room. Since she did not have a gateman; she opened the gate, drove out, parked outside and alighted from the car to lock the gate. After she locked the gate, she went back to the car, she was about to open the door, then she saw two people jogging towards her. Then the woman stopped in her tracks.
“Hello, I think I know this face.” The woman said to Iwalade. The boy too stopped to wait for the woman who was asking question.
“I don’t think we’ve met before ma.” Iwalade said politely.
“Eh….now I remember, you are a writer, right. My eyes can’t deceive me I watched the movie award show.”
“Yes ma, you know me then.”
“Wow!!! I can’t believe I saw you in real life. I love all your movies.” The woman said.
“They are not my movies ma, I only wrote the stories.” She stated.
“I know!! You are such a great story teller and I admire all your works.”
“Thank you so much ma.” Iwalade said and the woman turned to the young man beside her.
“Remember the movie I told you about last night, the one I want to go and see in the cinema this weekend.” She said and he nodded. “This is the person that wrote the story.”
“Oh!” The boy said coldly. He wasn’t really interested in the meet and greet, he only wanted to continue his jogging but as it is, he had no choice than to wait.
Sensing the guy’s cold attitude, the woman quickly spoke up.
“I’m sorry, he doesn’t watch Nollywood movies but I’ve told him severally that Nollywood movies have improved but he never believed me.” The woman said and Iwalade turned to the boy.
“She is actually right, Nollywood has really improved. You can try out our movies.” She said to the boy.
“Seriously, no disrespect to your industry but I can’t waste my time on Nollywood movies.”
“Don’t mind him jare, let him stick to his Hollywood movies.” The woman said and Iwalade smiled. “Oh! I forgot to introduce myself, I’m Mrs Alice Jadesola Williams and here is my only son, Imisioluwa Williams.”
“Hmm…..Imisi, that name is deep.” Iwalade pointed out.
“You are right; there is a story behind his name.”
“Anyways, it’s nice meeting you two.” She said and mother and son replied her.
“You live here?” Mrs. Williams asked pointing to Iwalade’s house.
“Yes ma, I moved in some weeks ago.”
“I thought as much. Welcome to our estate.” She said with a beautiful smile.
“Thank you ma.”
“Since I’m a big fan, can you come over to my place one of these days; my house is just blocks away.”
“Hmm….” She said, trying to think it through. “Okay ma.”
“Aww….thank you….let me have your number then.” She said and brought out her phone from her pocket joggers, Iwalade gave the woman her digits.
They left and she entered into her car, she only prayed she won’t be late for her meeting because of Mrs. Williams, but all the same she was happy to meet a fan.
The truth is that people are more particular about the actors in movies than the writer or even the crew behind the scenes. And in some cases, some assume the producers own the story, so producers take the credit that suppose to go to the script writer. And without a story, there won’t be a movie.
A week later, Temidun came to visit Iwalade; she washed her hands too before entering the house. Iwalade had finally opened up to her close pals that she had relocated. Temidun couldn’t believe her eyes when she got to the place, she was so happy for her friend. The new guy, Seyi she met was really serious about her and he was ready to settle down with her. Iwalade is not surprise at this news because the first time her friend introduced them; she knew the guy is for real.
“So, you guys are already discussing marriage. That’s good to hear.” Iwalade said.
“Yes o, Seyi said there’s no point wasting time.”
“This is what I’ve been telling you, guys who are ready for marriage won’t waste your time unnecessarily. I’m so happy that you finally find love.”
“I can’t help but thank you for talking sense into me. If not, I’ll still be holding on to nothing.” Temidun said.
“That’s the past, I’m happy you are smiling again and that’s the most important thing.”
“You are right, I can now breathe.”
“So, this year is sure now.”
“Yes, don’t worry, I’ll update you.”
“Alright, my regards to Uncle Seyi and help me thank him for taking good care of you.”
“Really, is it that obvious?”
“Don’t tell me you don’t know you are glowing.”
“Hmm…there is nothing like having peace in a relationship jare.”
“I know right.”
“Ehm…that reminds me, I’m quitting banking, he wants me to start my own business.”
“Really?”
“Yes, I saved some money and he wants to also add to it, so the business can at least be standard.”
“That’s not bad, it’s a good idea. Let me see…..” Iwalade said rolling her eyes. “I’ll sow into your business”
“It’s a lie…..” She jumped out of her seat and hugged her.
“I’ll wire some money after the wedding, so that you won’t go and spend your business money on wedding.”
“Aww….thank you….” Temidun said and returned to her seat. “Iwalade!”
“Yes.” She replied Temidun.
“Is there someone?”
“No.”
“You write great love stories and you still…….”
“Temidun, the Bible says he that finds a wife finds a good thing…. someone somewhere is looking for me and I know one day, he’ll find me but until then please let me be.” Iwalade said, putting her two palms together.
“Okay. I’m praying for you.”
“I know, Pastor Ms. By the way, I’m glad you found Jesus. You’ve now become Lady Evangelist on social media.”
“Who opened my eyes to the truth, is it not you. By the way, God turned my mess into a message, I have to open the eyes of other youth especially ladies.”
“That’s good.”
“Feelings are nothing compared to what God is saying to us about our relationship. Now I know the way out of getting heartbroken and that is seeking God’s opinion first, if He says NO, then bounce.”
“True.”
“Also, it’s pointless going into a relationship when you are not ready for marriage. Look at me, after wasting all my time with a man that doesn’t love me despite the fact that it wasn’t a sexless relationship o, still what the did I get out of it.” Temidun pointed out.
“And now you met Uncle Seyi who you don’t even love. He asked you out, you both prayed about it and God gave you a go ahead and now the wedding bell is already ringing.”
“And the love is now growing. Loving someone is what you choose to do as long as God is involved.” Temidun stated.
“You are right, some singles will say ‘I can’t marry someone I don’t love,’ forgetting that love is a seed, when you sow it, it starts growing. Once it’s a good soil, all you need to do is to water it.”
“You are right my dear friend. May God help the youth of this generation.”
“Amen.”
“You know I wish I had dedicated my life to Jesus earlier. Maybe I wouldn’t have messed up my life with Kayode.”
“Temidun…..let your past go and look into the future.”
“It’s all in the past now, you are right and guess what?” Temidun said.
“Hmm…..let me guess. He doesn’t want you guys to have sex until marriage.”
“Girl! You are in the spirit.” Temidun said and gave her friend a high five.
“When you meet a true child of God, he or she won’t demand sex from you and that guy I met last time is truly one.”
“Hmm…..by their fruit……”
“You shall know them.” Iwalade completed the Bible quote.
Temidun spent the weekend at her friend’s place and left on Sunday evening because she had to go to work the following day. Not everyone has the luxury of working from home like Iwalade.

******
That same Sunday evening, Iwalade who was alone in her apartment sat in her sitting room watching one of her favourite series on TV. Her phone rang, it was an unsaved number, she picked it and to her surprise, it was Mrs. Williams calling, the woman she met in front of her house. They exchanged pleasantries and the woman invited her over for dinner.
“Tonight!” Iwalade said. “I have no plans of going out tonight.”
“Please…. I’m sorry for the late invite; actually it just crossed my mind this evening.”
“Awww…..” She rolled her eyes in frustration. All she wants is to be indoor by herself.
“Please…….It’s just dinner.” Mrs. Williams pleaded.
“Okay, I’ll try ma.”
“Ah…..thank you.”
“Time?” Iwalade asked.
“7:00pm.”
“Okay, I’ll be there.” Iwalade promised and Mrs. Williams thanked her over and over again with so much excitement. She also told her the house number before ending the call.

Thanks for dis update

Welcome back racheal,i missed u.awwwwwwwwwwww.pls more update..This is interesting dear

Xeynab:
Thanks for dis update

You are welcome....

emmytemmy:
Welcome back racheal,i missed u.awwwwwwwwwwww.pls more update..This is interesting dear

Thanks so much. Welcome on board.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

Chapter 5(continuation)
Iwalade did not like the idea, visiting a stranger is not safe anymore with all the happenings going on around the world. She quickly said a prayer in her heart, ‘Lord if you don’t want me to go, let something stop me from doing so.’
She checked the time, it was 6:00pm, so she had just one hour to prepare for her impromptu dinner. Her mum called and they spoke for few minutes, she even told her about the dinner she was having with the woman who lives in her neighbourhood.
She left the sitting room and went to her room to prepare. By 7:00pm, she was standing in front of Mrs. Williams’ house which is just few blocks away from hers. The gateman attended to her and directed her to the main building. Mrs. Williams was so pleased to see her. She had always fantasized about meeting one of her favourite Nollywood writers.
“Please come on in.” She said flashing her a welcoming smile.
“Thank you ma.” She said as she followed her.
She led Iwalade into her exquisite living room and in Iwalade’s mind she was like ‘wow’. She gave her compliments and Mrs. Williams gestured for her to sit. Iwalade sat down and looked around “This is not just a rich family; these people are swimming in wealth.” She said again in her mind.
Mrs. Williams set the table, assisted by Nike, her domestic staff. Mrs. Williams invited Iwalade over to the dining. They both sat down with smile on their faces. Nike came out of the Kitchen and placed a jug of cold fresh orange juice on the dining table and sat with them.
“Meet Nike, my domestic staff.”
“Oh!” Iwalade was shocked; she didn’t even know what else to say. A domestic staff, eating on the same dining with her boss! She only saw something like that once and it was in a Nollywood movie not real life. “I have to write a script on this.” She thought.
“Nice meeting you ma. Mummy and I always enjoy all your movies.” Nike said and Iwalade rolled her eyes “Not again, the movie is not mine, I only wrote the script.” Iwalade said in her mind. She looked up and smiled at Nike. “Thank you.”
“Where is this boy for God sake? I told him the dinner is 7:00pm.” Mrs. Williams said, looking at the wall clock in front of her.
“Let me call him.” Nike said and brought out her phone from her pocket. She dialed his number with a smile on her face and left the table.
“Hello.” Nike said immediately the call connected.
“What?” Imisioluwa replied angrily and the smile on Nike’s face vanished.
“Ehm…ehm…Mummy is expecting you. Her guest is around.”
“So!”
“I’m sorry.” Nike said scratching her weave. “What should I tell Mum…..” She was still talking but the line went off.
Nike returned to the dining and sat quietly with a feigned smile. Iwalade could sense the difference between the smile she had on her face when she left the table and the smile that was presently on her face but she looked away.
“What did he say?” Mrs. Williams asked Nike.
“The network was bad ma. I didn’t hear him clearly.” She lied, she was too embarrassed to say the truth.
“We don’t need to wait for him, let’s eat.” Mrs. Williams said. She asked Iwalade to pray on the food which she did and they started eating. As they eat, they were also having chit chat as well; they discussed movies and also talk about one or two things about their estate. In the course of their discussion, Iwalade got to know that Nike just finished her ND program and from the look of things, Mrs. Williams is likely sponsoring her education.
After the dinner, Iwalade thanked her host for the sumptuous meal, truth be told, she really enjoyed the meal. They went back to the living room and they discussed some more, Mrs. Williams was a wonderful host and before Iwalade knew it, she made herself comfortable as well. Then she glanced at the beautiful big wall clock hung on the wall and realized its half past 8pm.
“I should be on my way now. Thank you so much for the dinner; I had a wonderful time here.” Iwalade said truthfully. Considering the fact that she doesn’t have such a wealthy family as close friends, she appreciated the fact that Mrs. Williams welcomed her into her home.
“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself, I was even thinking that the treat wasn’t good enough.”
“Wasn’t good you say! Far from it, from the food to the expensive wine and the welcoming environment, I say, you are wonderful host.”
“Aww……thanks for the compliment. Let me you see off.” Mrs. Williams said and Nike came out to say her goodbye as well, then the two left the house. A car horned from outside, the gateman opened the gate; it was Imisioluwa that drove in. He drove past them and parked in the garage. He alighted and walked towards Iwalade and his Mum.
“Good evening Mum.” He said and to Iwalade, “Good evening ma’am.” He said and the two replied him. “Mum, I’m sorry I couldn’t make it for dinner.”
“It’s okay.” Mrs. Williams replied. “I want to see my guest off.” She told her son who nodded and went into the house. When they got to the gate, the gateman opened the gate for them but Iwalade told Mrs. Williams to go back in.
“Let me see you off nau.”
“It’s late ma. You just go back in and thanks once again ma.”
“You are welcome but promise me, you’ll always come around whenever I call.”
“No problem ma. Who doesn’t like free food.” Iwalade said and they both laughed. They said their goodnight and Mrs. Williams went back into the house.
She went straight to her son’s room and bumped into the room without knocking.
“Jesus, Mum!” Imisi exclaimed.
“What?”
“Why did you bump into my room like that?”
“Isn’t it obvious, I’m angry with you.”
“Why, because I didn’t come for dinner; but I apologized.”
“Ehn….ehn, as if this is your first time.” She said and he sighed.
“Mummy……I’m sorry.” Imisi said and held his Mum from behind.
“Leave me be, it’s okay.” She said with a smile and he released her. Imisi took his Mum’s hand and walked her to the bed where they both sat.
“So, how did the dinner go?” He asked.
“Good, myself and my guest had a swell time. She’s fun to be with, I like her.”
“Hmm…..I can see that. He nodded.
“Now, I have a companion in this estate. You know you always tell me to at least get acquainted with someone…”
“But you always tell me you don’t want anyone, that people can be nosy.”
“True but I think Iwalade is not bad.”
“But she’s younger than you, what will you two be discussing.” Imisioluwa pointed out.
“Don’t say that, wisdom as nothing to do with age.”
“You are right though. Why did she come alone? You didn’t invite her husband?”
“She’s still single; she stayed in that house alone.”
“You must be kidding me. She stays in that house alone!”
“Yes, I asked her after the dinner and she told me herself.”
“Ladies of nowadays, once they are rich, they forget about marriage.”
“Don’t judge, we don’t know her story.”
“You are right, so let me just shut it. By the way, I’m glad you found yourself a companion, at least you won’t be telling me about your toasters again.” Imisi said and his Mum hit him playfully.
“You are still my person, any day, anytime. So, you’ll still get all the gists from me.”
“Really, what’s now the job of your new companion; is she not supposed to free me from all the female talks you discuss with me!” He said feigning anger.
“You can’t escape from me, you know.”
“Says who, wait till I’m married.”
“Married! Says a twenty three years old boy.”
“I’m turning twenty four next month.”
“What’s the difference?”
“What if your twenty three years old boy decides to get married this year?”
“You must be kidding.” Mrs. Willliams said and throw a pillow at him.
“I’m just joking Mum, I have a company to run, the baton will be handed to me in a couple of months. So, who has time for marriage, maybe in ten years time though.” He shrugged.
“Ten what! You are not serious. When will I see my grandchildren?” Mrs. Willliams retorted.
“My God! Mum, so when do you expect me to marry?”
“I don’t even know.” She said with a worried look. Imisioluwa understood her fears.
“Mum, I’ll be fine. Affliction will not rise the second time says the scripture. Don’t you believe?”
“I believe.”
“Then cheer up, I don’t even have a girlfriend.”
“Then get yourself one.” She finally put on a smile. “And I know your problem.”
“And what is it?” Imisi asked curiously.
“You are too choosy. A perfect lady doesn’t exist.”
“Mum, I know but I‘ll only consider relationship when I’m ready to get married.”
“If that’s your reason, I think I kind of agree with you but you can still have a close female friend that you can understudy, you know.”
“Christ, I can’t even believe I’m talking marriage with you.” He said and they both laughed.
“You know you can discuss anything with me. All will have is each other.” Mrs. Williams said.
“Do you really mean that?”
“Do I really mean what?”
“That all we have is each other and I told you to do something for me and you refused.” Imisi got serious again.
“Don’t even go there.” She raised her index finger to his face.
“Fine! Let’s go downstairs to pray, I’m feeling sleepy already.” Imisi said and his Mum left the room. Nike was already waiting downstairs so they could pray. Some minutes later, they were through with the night prayer and everyone returned to their rooms.
When Iwalade got home, she just went straight to her bedroom; she put off and lay on her bed. She was reminiscing about the dinner, she was still amazed at the way Mrs. Williams treated her domestic staff. “That woman is a good person o. Well she’s a Christian.” She said to herself but then retorted. “What am I even saying; there are so many Christians who treat their domestic staff like trash. Truthfully, there are ‘Christians’ and there are ‘Christians’ Mrs. Williams is indeed a good person.” She concluded.
Then another scenario came to her mind, which was when Nike left the dining to call Imisi on phone, she was all smiling when she left the dining but returned sad even though she feigned a smile, sadness was still written on her face. Iwalade tossed on the bed as she thinks. “I hope it’s not what I’m thinking sha because all these rich kids….” She paused at her taught, “Well, let me not judge. I don’t even know him.” She said to herself. She wanted to remember something again but her phone rang, she checked the screen and frowned. She eventually picked the call.
“I’m not your woman, stop calling me late in the night.”
“I’m your childhood friend and we’ve been like these for years.”
“I’m your childhood friend.” She mimicked. “Go and use it to collect money in bank.” She hissed.
“Iwalade, remember the days when we’ll talk all night, days of free night calls.”
“That was then, we were young and still in school. Now you should use your time for better things.”
“You know I do, if not, I won’t be where I am today.” Kayode said referring to his achievements so far. He is a business consultant and runs his own consulting firm.
“Thank God for your life, then use your spare time to think about your life and how you’ll get a partner to settle down with.”
“Iwalade, I’m the right man for you, can’t you see? You can’t even love any man the way you love me.”
“Says who? If the man God has chosen for me shows up, off I go to the altar.”
“You are going to that altar with me.”
“In your dreams, Kayode, please I want to sleep and I don’t want to be rude.”
“I’ll let you be. By the way, I miss you; I wanted to come this weekend but I realized Temidun was around.”
“Stop stalking me, this guy.”
“I’m not stalking you; I saw the pictures you guys took on your Whatsapp status.”
“That is still stalking.”
“Seriously, so somebody cannot check your Whatsapp status again.”
“See, whatever. Goodnight.”
“When will I be seeing you, can I come over to your place tomorrow?”
“On Monday! Don’t you have work?”
“In the evening nau…I wish I can work from home like you.”
“Somebody envies my job.” She said with a smile.
“Seriously, I do.”
‘It’s a pity I don’t envy yours….” She said sarcastically and he laughed. They said their goodbyes and the line went off.
“I can’t even feign fight with him; he always has his way of making you smile.” Iwalade said to herself. She said her night prayers and covered her body with a duvet as she drifted to sleep.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 6
Iwalade’s alarm rang by 2:00am, it was time for her quiet time, she finished up around past three and went back to sleep.
Some minutes past 5:00am, her phone started ringing and she was really enjoying her sleep. Reluctanctly, she picked up the call, it was her Mum. At first, she was scared but as she was looking at the ringing phone trying to figure out why her Mum was calling at that time of the day, the Holy Spirit whispered to her ‘It’s your grandma.’
“Hello Mummy.”
“Hello Oko mi (My daughter), I’m sorry I woke you up……”
“Grandma is dead?”
“Yes, she died in my hands few minutes ago.” Mrs. Badmus said.
She had travelled to her home town in Ado Ekiti two days ago to take care of her sick mother but the 96years old woman finally gave up the ghost.
“Eyah….my grandma is gone…..” A stray tear left Iwalade’s eyes she was one of the old woman’s favourite grandchild, and yes grandma also loved Fullhouse. Those are the two grandchildren she used to spoil whenever they go to her place for holidays.
“Your grandma is gone o, may God be with the rest of us.”
“Amen…. have you called your siblings?” Iwalade asked her Mum.
“I’ve called them o, I’ve also called your sister, Funke.”
“Can this Ghana people make it down to the burial?”
“Sure, you know your grandma had warned us not to take her to mortuary, so we have to bury her this week.”
“I know, that’s why I asked if Mummy Alade and my sister will be able to make it.”
“Of course they will, in fact, when I got here two days ago, I already know that the old woman can’t make it and I informed them.”
“She tried nau, 96years on earth is no joke.”
“Abi o. So you all have to be in Ado this weekend for the burial.”
“Okay ma.”
“Iwalade, I discussed with my sisters and we’ve decided to put you in charge of all our clothings. So, please put down all our names, children and grandchildren and help me send messages to everybody. The dress code is white and blue, that’s what your grandma wants us to put on for her burial.”
“She said that before she died?” Iwalade asked.
“Yes. So go to the market to get the clothes including the gele and fila. (Native head gears and cap)” Mrs. Badmus instructed.
“Yes ma. I’ll create a whatsapp group and add everybody, so communicating the information will be much easier.”
“Good, ori e pe oko mi. (you are wise my daughter)” She commended her daughter and then she ended the call after thanking her.
They all knew Iwalade has the strength and capacity for such task; she is the most rugged among all the female children in their family. And she is good in picking of nice aso ebi as well; she had helped some of her friends during their weddings.
Immediately, Iwalade switch on her data and created a Whatsapp group, she added her siblings, she also added her sister’s husband, she added her maternal aunts, their husbands and she also added all her cousins and their spouses and that include Ireoluwa.
Since she has everyone’s contact, adding everyone was quite easy for her. Oreoluwa, Fullhouse’s sister who was in the far UK can’t make it to Nigeria; she was also added to the group.
After adding everyone, Iwalade first announced the death of grandma and they all responded with a condolence messages, then Iwalade passed the information about the aso ebi (clothing) and asked everyone to state the number of yards they need. After dropping the last message, she then went back to sleep.
Fullhouse woke up from his sleep in the early hours of the morning and smiled at the sleeping beauty beside him, their marriage is just few months and Ireoluwa is two months pregnant.
Fullhouse kissed his wife on the forehead and she opened her eyes slowly, she was such a beauty to behold.
“Awww…..I woke my baby up….I’m sorry.” Fullhouse said and planted another kiss on her lips. Ireoluwa eyed him playfully and clung to him as he cuddled her.
“Good morning darling…..” Ireoluwa said in her sweet bedroom voice.
“Good morning pretty. How is my wife and our baby doing this morning?” Fullhouse asked.
“We are fine…..” She was saying but he kissed her and started caressing her body gently, she is with a child so he has to be very soft with her. Ireoluwa moaned quietly and when Fullhouse realized that her body was responding to all his moves, he turned her back to him in a spoony manner and lifted up her night gown and took it off which left her cladded in her panties, he slowly removed her panties and made love to her from behind. It was smooth and sweet. Ireoluwa always enjoy their passionate love making, Fullhouse was her first, she married a virgin and he was a good lover who always knows what she wants and how she wants it.
“I love you.” He whispered into her ears and she smiled.
“I love you too.” She replied and turned to face him as he planted a kiss on her forehead. Fullhouse phone beeped. His data is always on due to the nature of his job.
“Please, let me check in case there is any message from the office.” He opened his whatsapp and saw that he was added to a new group. He ignored other messages and opened it.
“My God! Grandma is dead.” Fullhouse said.
“Your grandma that you still mention last night, that you want her to see our baby before she died!”
“Apparently, grandma did not wait to see our baby.” He said and shook his head. Ireoluwa knew he was sad, so she gave him a hug from behind and patted his back, she knew how much he loved his grandma. Ireoluwa released him and they both sat on the bed.
“You are in the group too.”Fullhouse said to his wife.
“Really.” She picked her phone from the bedside table and switched on her data.
“Iwalade added you. You can read through all the information for the burial ceremony.” Fullhouse told his wife.
“Okay.” She said and opened her Whatsapp. She was still going through the messages when Fullhouse phone rang, it was his mum.
“Hello Mum, I just saw it online. Sorry for your loss ma.”
“Sorry to you too, you just lost your grandma. Anyway, I’m travelling to Ado this morning but I need you to be around before Saturday so you can help us out with one thing or the other. Will you be available?” Mrs. Adeyinka asked.
“I will, I’ll call Lagos office and talk to my boss. Just tell me what you need me to do and it’s done.”
“Ose oko mi (Thanks my son), your cousin, Iwalade is handling the clothes.”
“I know, I’ll call her and we shall discuss.”
“Okay, thank you and please say me well to my daughter, I’ll talk to her when I get to Ado.” She said, referring to Ireoluwa.
“Alright ma, safe journey.” He said and she replied him, then she ended the call.
“When are we traveling to Ado?” Ireoluwa asked her husband.
“We!” He looked at her again. You are not traveling, not in your condition.”
“But I’m fine.”
“I know but you are to avoid anything strenuous.”
“Traveling is not strenuous.”
“It is, including all the burial activities.”
“I won’t do anything strenuous; I’ll just sit down and watch.”
“No, I don’t believe you. You want to tell me you will not be involved in one thing or the other when you get there! And you know you can’t do that for now.”
“I promise I won’t do anything when I get there. I promise.”
“Ire…….”
“Please…….my love.”
“You know we’ve not told anyone about the pregnancy, don’t you think they will find out when they see you.”
“They can’t nau… since I’m not showing yet and I’m not sick; I’m still my normal self. So don’t worry, no one will find out.”
“Ireoluwa, if you don’t want to stay home alone, I can invite your mum over to stay with you here.”
“Fullhouse nau…….I want to go jo, I can’t wait to meet all your cousins again. The last time I saw them was at our wedding. I also want to meet your family members that will be coming from Ghana, this is an opportunity to meet them since they couldn’t come for the wedding and you know I’ve heard a lot about your Aunt, the one Oreoluwa stayed with in Ghana, I want to meet her too.”
“So, this is a family reunion thing for you abi.”
“Something like that.” She winked at him and he smiled.
“Okay, you win but please….”
“I will be a good girl, I promise.” She said raising her hand with her perfect smiling face that Fullhouse always falls for.
Afterwards, they had their morning devotion, they use to have it most time in their bedroom but there are times they use the sitting room as well.
Fullhouse stood up from the bed to do the house chores; he doesn’t allow his wife to do anything ever since they got the pregnancy news. Ireoluwa was still on bed reading through the burial messages, luckily for her, school is presently on break, and so she has all the time to herself.
Fullhouse came back into the room; it was time for them to bath.
“Where’s your pant. So I can quickly wash it before we bath?”
“I should be asking you, you pulled it off yourself.” Ireoluwa replied with a smile.
“You are not serious.” He smirked. “You are right though, I removed it.” He said and started searching for it. He tried to remove the duvet from her body but she clung to it.
“Sweetheart nau….let go of the duvet, the pant should be underneath.” He said.
“I don’t think so.” She said trying to search under the duvet with her hands but she didn’t find it.
“It should be under the duvet, you know I don’t throw pants.” He said and she laughed. He was right, Fullhouse don’t throw pant around. The pant should be hiding somewhere on the bed, so she took the duvet off her body exposing her unclothedness and saw the pant.
“Here.” She said and he took it. He helped her up from the bed and they went into the bathroom to have their bath.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

Chapter 6(continuation)
Iwalade woke up later that morning and took her bath; she started preparing for Eko Idumota market to get the aso ebi. Before 10am in the morning, everyone has responded on the Whatsapp group, they’ve all indicated the number of yards they need. Even Oreoluwa who was in UK insisted they must buy her clothes as well and keep it for her. They also asked for the cost but Iwalade replied and told them, they’ll find out once she get the clothes.
Iwalade also dropped a message in the group asking if there’s anyone who will follow her to the market but they all insisted she should go alone that they are okay with whatever she picked. More so, they are going to work but Iwalade is the only one who has that kind of time.
Iwalade brought out a jotter and pen and started doing the calculations of the yards of clothes they requested for, she was still on that, and then her phone started ringing. It was her cousin, Fullhouse that was calling.
“Hello Cousin.” She said.
“Iwalade, thanks for helping out with the clothes.”
“It’s nothing. I’ll soon be leaving for the market.” Iwalade informed.
“Okay, call me when you get there, I want to know the cost of all our clothes.”
“Hmm…. I trust you, my mind told me that was the reason why you called.”
“Sha call me; let me contribute my own little quota.” He said.
“I will.” She said and the line went off. Fullhouse was already in the office that morning, so he started off with the files on his desk.
Few hours later, Iwalade called back and told Fullhouse the cost of the aso ebi but before he could say anything, Iwalade told him she has decided to pay seventy percent of the money leaving the remaing thirty percent for him to take care of but Fullhouse objected and said fifty-fifty is okay with him, she had no choice than to agree. Fullhouse told her to send her account details and he transferred the money to her immediately.
Fullhouse called his boss, Mr. Egbayelo who is now a chief, he bagged a chieftaincy title some weeks ago, they now call him Chief Egbayelo. He is a very wonderful boss and father to Fullhouse and his friend, Gbotemi, Chief even gave Ireoluwa a car gift on their wedding day.
Fullhouse informed his boss about his grandma’s death and the need for him to travel the following day and he also informed him that he won’t be around for the rest of the week.
Mr. Egbayelo gave him the permission, he told him to resume work the following Monday. Chief Egbayelo already has an engagement for that weekend, if not he would have attended the burial as well. Fullhouse also called his best friend, Gbotemi to tell him about the burial ceremony and he promised to be at the burial as well.

******
Iwalade got back from the market tired, she didn’t take her car, she took a cab instead. He paid the cab driver and the man helped her put down the goods and he drove off. Iwalade pulled the goods towards the gate, trying to search her purse for the key to open the gate.
“Hi.” She heard a voice from behind and she turned to look at the person, she is still new in the area, so she was surprised that someone ‘hi’ her.
“Hi.” She replied as she turned to face the person. It was Imisioluwa, Mrs. Williams’ son.
“You need a gateman.” He said.
“I know right.” She replied and he collected the goods she was carrying. She told him not to bother that she’s already home but he insisted.
“But you are going somewhere.” She said as she opened the gate and they both walked into the compound. She led the way and he followed.
“Yes, just want to get something down the street for Mum.”
“Hope all is well, this one that you two are at home today.” Iwalade inquired.
“Hmm…no big deal, She just need to rest, you know she stress herself a lot.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, I actually talked her into staying back home today, we have a family function this weekend, so I insisted she rest today because of the busy weekend ahead.” Imisioluwa explained.
“That means everybody is occupied this weekend. I have a family function this weekend as well.”
“Really!”
“My grandma died this week and we have to bury her this weekend.”
“Oh, sorry about that and Mum was thinking of inviting you but she decided against it since the function is just days away.”
She stopped in front of the front door and unlocked the door with one of the bunch of keys in her hands. She stepped in but Imisioluwa stopped in front of her door and handed the goods to her.
She was still amazed that a Behind guy can help her carry her goods in. She used to think that the guy was a snub judging by the way he acted when they met. “That means, he is well brought up, kudos to Mrs. Williams.” She concluded in her mind.
“Thanks.” She said to Imisioluwa.
“You are welcome.” He said and turned to leave, she followed him so as to lock the gate. He was about to step out of the gate but she stopped him.
“Can you please help me get one?”
“Get what?” Imisioluwa asked.
“Gateman.” She replied.
“Oh! You can talk to mum.”
“Your Mum! I don’t want to bother her.”
“Trust me, she will fix it. She has access to some security agency in town; they will just send one of their staff over.”
“Really?”
“Yea.”
“Okay, I’ll talk to her.” She said and he left as he headed down the street.
Iwalade got back inside and went straight into the bathroom to relief her bladder, she was seriously pressed. She flushed, washed her hands and then went into the kitchen to get a glass of chilled water. She downed two glasses at a go.
She went back into the sitting room and switch on her data. She informed them on the Whatsapp group that she has gotten the clothes, they will all collect their clothes in Ado the next day, since they’ve all agreed on meeting in Ado the next day and for some who can’t make it the next day, has decided to send their measurements.
No one prepared for the impromptu burial but they’ve got no choice, they have to follow their grandma’s wish who wants to be buried immediately after her death. They have tailors in their hometown that can sew the clothes in a matter of days. And as for the money, Iwalade informed them that two people among them had shouldered the cost. So many replies came in immediately.
“Amazing.” One said.
“Wow!” Ireoluwa said as if she knew nothing but Fullhouse already told his wife everything.
“God bless them for us.” Another said.
“I can guess who the two people are.” Tosin, Iwalade’s younger brother said.
“Na you sabi.” Iwalade replied him.
“We want to know o, so we can thank them. Anyway, God bless them.” Funke in Ghana said.
Iwalade’s maternal family members are wonderful people, and they are so united but it’s unfortunate that her father’s side is nothing to write home about. Her mum’s people were the only ones who didn’t neglect them in their days of struggles. As regards the burial, she had told her mum to let her know how much the burial ceremony will cost; she is willing to send her own quota.
Iwalade who was still online smiled at the comments; she later went into the kitchen to get something to eat. She is famished; going to Eko Idumota all alone is not a joke in Lagos. She served her food and settle down to eat.
Imisioluwa got back home and handed her mother the stuff she sent him. She was relaxing with a pack of juice and glass in front of her.
“I saw your friend.” Imisioluwa said to his mum.
“My friend!”
“How many friends do you have in this estate?”
“You mean Iwalade?”
“Yes. She sent her regards plus she lost her grandma and this weekend is the burial.” Imisioluwa informed.
“See the person I was thinking of inviting over o.”
“I told her so too. By the way, she said she needs a gateman.”
“You know I wanted to bring that gateman issue up too. I don’t like the fact that she is staying all alone in that building.” Mrs. Williams explained.
“Help her fix it.”
“I will, please remind me.”
“I won’t Mum, set a reminder on your phone.” He said jokingly and left the sitting room for his room.
Fullhouse came back from work and received a warm welcome from his charming wife. Ife is not like Lagos that you get back home late in the night, Fullhouse always returned home around 6:00pm. Ireoluwa was already making dinner, though he complained that she should have waited for him but there’s nothing he can do about it.
“We are travelling to Ado tomorrow; my boss gave me permission to resume on Monday.” Fullhouse informed her.
“Glad to hear that because Mummy needs you over there.” She said referring to her mother-inlaw.
“Yea, I guess she called you.”
“Yes, she called when she got to Ado this afternoon.” Ireoluwa replied.
“Iwalade called me on my way home now. She wants to know if we will need a hotel or if we want to stay in the family house.”
“Family house is better, there won’t be any fun in the hotel where the two of us we just lock ourselves in but family house will be fun, and I’ll get to meet members of the family.”
“You are right, my cousins too insisted on staying in the family house just to catch fun but what I’m after now is your health Ireoluwa.”
“I’m fine……darling husband. I will avoid stress as much as I can.”
“Okay.” He looked at her smiling wife and shook his head. “I’ll call Iwalade and tell her not to book a hotel for us.”
“Okay.” She was really feeling excited about the party.
Fullhouse went into the bedroom, changed from his office wear, he picked up their clothes for laundry since there was light and they won’t be around that weekend; he packed them into the laundry basket he was holding and left for the laundry room and stuffed them in the washing machine.
The next day, the couple moved their bags into the car and they set out as they travel down to Ado. Then the two boarded the car, Fullhouse was about to turn on the ignition and noticed that his wife is not wearing her wedding ring.
“Where is your wedding ring?” He asked curiously.
“Oh! I forgot to put in on.”
“Please don’t forget abeg, don’t let guys see you in Ado and think that you are single.” He said and she laughed.
“Fullhouse…….”
“Don’t Fullhouse mi, wait here, let me go get it, it should be on the dressing table, right?”
“Yes.” She replied with a smile. Fullhouse alighted and quickly went back into the house to get it. He returned and they left the house.
They got to their family house and almost everyone had already arrived except for few who promised to be available the next day which is Friday the wake keep day.
The family members were all happy to see the newlywed especially their new bride, Ireoluwa. Her mother in-law, Mrs. Adeyinka and her husband were so happy to see her. By nightfall, the whole place was bubbling and Ireoluwa was having a great time despite the fact that her husband was not with her. Fullhouse had gone out with one of his Uncles to buy the cows they’ll use for the burial.
On Friday, which was the wake keep, according to custom, the children and grandchildren of the deseased are to dance around in the compound while the drummers will play for them to dance too; some women from the village are also around to sing the cultural burial songs for them. Ireoluwa was so excited about this. She hasn’t experience a village life before, she is a Lagos girl and that was her first time of attending a burial ceremony, so everything was new to her.
Fullhouse who has been busy since morning decided to go back to the family house to check on his wife. And to his surprise, he saw his wife among those who were dancing and drinking palmwine. She was really having fun but Fullhouse just have to stop her after watching her dance for another thirty minutes, so he joined her on the dance floor.
“Sweetheart, that’s enough.” He whispered to her ears and took her hand.
“Leave her nau… she’s enjoying herself.” One of his cousins said.
“Leave her jare Fullhouse; I even like the fact that she’s not forming the way some Lagos girls do.” One of his Aunts said.
“She will join you shortly; I just want her to help me with something.” He said to them.
Ireoluwa pleaded with her eyes but he didn’t succumb, so he took her by the hand and led her into the house. Iwalade saw all these and followed them. Fullhouse took her into the room they lodged in, she sat down quietly, and then they heard a knock.
“Come in.” He said.
“Is she okay?” Iwalade who entered asked Fullhouse.
“Yes, she is. I just don’t want her to overdo things.” Fullhouse replied her.
“I’m fine ma. Thanks.” Ireoluwa added and Iwalade nodded.
“You shouldn’t have allowed her come at all.” Iwalade said.
“Why?” Fullhouse asked. His wife was also taken aback.
“I know she’s pregnant.” She said and the couple looked at each other surprised. They did not tell anyone about the pregnancy and she’s not yet showing.
“Iwalade, what planet did you come from.” Fullhouse asked jokingly and they all laughed.
“Don’t mind me. I just know how to spot a pregnant woman when I see one.” She turned to Ireoluwa “Your husband is right, you have to take it slow, you need to see the way you were dancing out there.”
“Okay ma. I’ll just stay back inside and rest.” She said.
“Better. Fullhouse, you can go join the rest outside, I’ll stay with her so that others won’t suspect anything.”
“Thanks Iwalade. I’ll head out now.” He then walked up to his wife and held her face. ”Aunty, do… not… come… out. You’ve done enough for today.” He said and she nodded. He kissed her on the forehead and then left the two.
Iwalade asked Ireoluwa to go shower first because she was all sweaty, which she did. She came back and lay on the bed.
Ireoluwa slept for some minutes and then wake up to see Iwalade still in the room with her.
“You are still here ma.”
“Yes, hope you slept well?” Iwalade asked.
“Yes ma.”
“Your husband called to check on you, I told him you are sleeping.”
“Okay.” She said and the two started gisting. Ireoluwa do watch movies written by Iwalade and she started asking her questions about her writing profession. She asked her what inspires her to write and how she got into her acting profession and Iwalade answered all her questions. Iwalade’s phone rang; it was Fullhouse that was calling.
“How far?”
“She’s awake.” Iwalade informed.
“I’ll come check on her now. We are through here.” He said and ended the call.
Few minutes later, Fullhouse joined them, he thanked Iwalade and then gave them the gist of some funny dramas that happened outside and they all laughed.
“Let me go and get us food.” Iwalade said and left the room. She met her mum and her siblings sitted with the caterers, she greeted everyone. Fullhouse’s Mum asked after Ireoluwa, she had noticed her absence but Iwalade told her that she is fine. Iwalade instructed the caterer to help her dish food in three places, she also took three plastic drinks and table water and call a young girl who she saw around and ask her to help her carry one of the trays where she placed the food while she carried the other tray herself. When they got to the room, she collected the tray from the girl; she thanked her and gave her two hundred naira note.
“Ese ma.” The girl said in Yoruba. (Thank you ma)
“Oluwa seun” (Thank God) She replied in Yoruba too and the girl left.
Fulllhouse and his wife thanked Iwalade as the three settled down to eat.
The next day, Saturday was the burial ceremony, everything went well as planned, despite the short notice people still turned out for the ceremony. Gbotemi, Fullhouse’s friend came alone, his wife couldn’t come. Kayode and Temidun, Iwalade’s friends also attended the burial ceremony. All the guests were served and they all enjoyed themselves.
Reception commenced after the church service and it was lit. The musician that played started calling names of the children and grandchildren of the deceased to come to the stage and dance. Fullhouse and his wife were also called upon to the dance floor; Ireoluwa danced so well that all the family members came up on stage to dance with her and sprayed her lots of money. It was really fun, everyone had a nice time.
Gbotemi left around 4:00pm because he had to return to Lagos that day. Kayode came in his car, Iwalade persuaded by Temidun to go with Kayode which she reluctantly agreed to. The two were not that close again after the break up, in fact, it only took the grace of God for Temidun to let go of the past.
Some hours later, they started receiving calls from their guests, they all arrived home safely.
Around 8:00 pm, everyone has retired to their rooms. Fullhouse and Ireoluwa ate dinner together and then went to bed. The next day, they all dressed up for church, for the burial thanksgiving. The whole family returned, they prepared lunch and they all ate. Some of the family members who are to resume work on Monday started packing their bags and that includes Fullhouse.
Fullhouse started packing their things, when he was through, he told His wife to wait behind for him to get their things into the car first. He then left the room.
Iwalade went to the room where her Mum and her Mum’s siblings were staying, by the time she got there, she met them packing some food items in sack bags, each sack bag contains foodstuff and that includes the leftover meats among others.
“Eku ise ma.” (Well done ma) Iwalade greeted the four women in the room, Mummy Adeyinka, Mummy Alade, Funke and her mum.
“Ose Oko mi.” (Thank you) Her Aunts and Mum replied her. While Funke said “Thanks dear.”
“Thank God, you are here, come and carry your own and please call others to get theirs before they go.” Mummy Alade said.
“I’m not going today ma, I’m leaving tomorrow.” Iwalade replied her.
“I trust you.” Mummy Adeyinka said.
“Thanks for waiting behind sis.” Funke added and Iwalade smiled.
“It’s nothing; at least I can fill in for those that will be resuming back to work tomorrow. You know my house is my own office.” She said and they all laughed.
“That’s why it is good to be self employed jare.” Mrs. Alade said and everyone attested to it.
“Some people are already leaving, I saw them outside, let me go and give them theirs.” Iwalade notified the women and carried two sack bags.
“Okay, you can as well call others that are still in the house to come and carry theirs.” Funke said.
“Okay sis.” She replied.
“Please, help me call Ireoluwa to come and carry theirs, Fullhouse will not come, I know him.” Fullhouse’s Mum, Mummy Adeyinka said.
“There’s no need for that, I’ll pick theirs as well.”
“No o, they are your younger ones, just tell Ireoluwa to come get it.” Mummy Adeyinka declined.
“Ko mean nau….” (It doesn’t matter) If she is willing to take it over to them, then let her take it.” Iwalade’s Mum replied her sister.
“Ose oko mi.” (Thank you) Mrs Adeyinka thanked her.
“Yes….. ma.” Iwalade said and pick another pack with the ones she had carried before and left the room.
By the time Fullhouse returned to the room, Ireloluwa was on the floor groaning in pains.
“Ire!” He rushed towards her and grabbed her. “What happened, I left you just now.” He said checking her temperature and looking all over her body, and then he saw blood flowing down her laps.
“Jesus! Ire! You are bleeding.” He said but she didn’t say a word, she just kept groaning in pains. “Let’s take you to the hospital.” He said hastily.

@rachealfst that was a great piece. It's the no1 best selling on okadabooks. I must say, it's really worth it. I'm glad Imisi came back to life. Whatever move one wants to make, always put God first. Thanks for the moral and spiritual lesson, God bless us all.

@bimberry1307 Thank you so much ma. God bless and replenish your purse in Jesus name.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 7
He was about to carry her, then he heard a knock on the door. Fullhouse scratched his head, he doesn’t know whether to answer the door or not. He didn’t want anyone to see his wife in that condition. He was still thinking of what to do, and then the person knocked again.
“Who is there?” He asked.
“It’s me, Iwalade.”
“Iwalade, please hold on.” He said. “I’ll be right back.” He said to his wife and stood up to attend to the door.
“I was told to give you this.” Iwalade said and handed the pack to him but she noticed he was destabilized. Fullhouse took it from her and thanked her, he was about to close the door but Iwalade stopped him.
“Fullhouse, what’s the problem.”
“Nothing.”
“Don’t tell me that, where is your wife.” Immediately she mentioned the word ‘wife’ Fullhouse couldn’t hide it anymore.
“Iwalade, my wife is bleeding inside.”
“What! What are you still waiting for? Hospital!” She said and they both rushed back into the room and carried Ireoluwa.
Luckily for them, all the people outside had already left, so the coast was clear, Fullhouse unlock the car, they boarded the car and left for the hospital. They got to the hospital and they were quickly attended to.
“She’s two months pregnant.” Fullhouse informed the nurses.
“Just stay back. We are on it.” One of the nurses said to him and Iwalade held him back to allow the nurses do their job.
“Call Doctor Gabriel.” The Head Nurse said to one of the nurses, Nurse Oyin and the nurse left immediately while the other nurse check in Ireoluwa into the hospital room. The doctor came in afterwards and attends to her. Iwalade and Fullhouse were in the waiting room all along praying silently for Ireoluwa and the pregnancy.
An hour and some minutes later, one of the nurses came out and told them that their attention is needed in the doctor’s office. Nurse Oyin led them to the doctor’s office. They got into the office and met the doctor on seat.
“Doctor, how’s my wife?” Fullhouse asked curiously.
“Your wife is fine, she is stable.”
“Thank God and thank you too.”
“It’s alright, I’m just doing my job but I’m afraid, I have a bad news.”
“Is the baby fine? Has the bleeding stopped?” Fullhouse asked impatiently.
“No, that’s the bad news, she has an incomplete miscarriage.”
“Jesus!” Iwalade exclaimed. Fullhouse looked at her confused; he then turned to the doctor.
“Please, I’m confused, I know miscarriage but which one is incomplete miscarriage?” He asked the doctor.
“A miscarriage is termed ‘incomplete’ if bleeding has begun and the cervix is dilated, but the tissue from the pregnancy still remains in the uterus.” The doctor explained and Fullhouse gasped.
“Fullhouse, take it easy. All is well.” Iwalade said calmly.
“So what’s the solution now?” He asked the doctor.
“I’ll give you a drug; this will help with the flushing of the tissue from the uterus.”
“Flushing, which means the baby is……”
“Yes, the pregnancy is gone.”
“My God.” Fullhouse exclaimed.
“It’s alright, it happens especially to first time mothers. Just try again.” The doctor advised.
“Okay.” He said, nodding his head repeatedly.
“So, the nurses will attend to you outside, the drug will be given to you, your wife should take it when she gets home.”
“We don’t stay in Ado, we live in Ife. Can we travel today with her condition?”
“Sure, you can.” The doctor replied.
“Can, I have your number please?” He asked the doctor.
“Of course.” He replied and gave him his digits.
Iwalade and Fullhouse went to the nurses’ station, they settled the bill and they were given the drug.
“You can go get your wife in the ward.” Nurse Oyin told them. She led the way and they followed her. Nurse Oyin helped her up from the bed and gave her an extra Sanitary pad.
“I was told you are traveling, you may need it” Nurse Ope said. They all thanked her and they left.
Inside the car, “Sweetheart, how are you feeling now?” Fullhouse asked his wife who was sitting on the back seat so she could relax well.
“I’m better, the pain has reduced.”
“Okay.” He said and turned to Iwalade who was sitting beside him. “Thanks so much, I really appreciate”
“It’s okay. I’ll follow you guys to Ife.”
“Don’t worry, we’ll be fine.” Fullhouse said.
“Trust me, you’ll need me.”
“I can handle anything Iwalade; I don’t want to stress you.”
“I’m scared Aunty Iwalade, I saw this sad look on the nurse’s face when we are leaving.” Ireoluwa said.
“My dear, you don’t need to be scared, the Lord will see you through and that is why I want to be with you guys all through this.”
“Fullhouse, let her come with us.” Ireoluwa said to her husband.
“Okay.” He accepted.
“You know what, you guys should wait for me down the road, I’ll take a bike to the family house, I’ll get the rest of your things you left in the room.”
“What about your stuff?” Fullhouse asked.
“I’ll tell my Mum to help me bring them to Lagos. I don’t want them to suspect anything; you know those mummies can worry.”
“You are right, that’s what I’m avoiding too.” He said and he started the car. He dropped Iwalade at the junction, they watched as she took a bike. The couple waited for her.
Iwalade got to the family house and luckily for her she met her mum in the compound, she told her that she needs to leave urgenty and that she won’t be able to stay till tomorrow like she promised earlier. Mrs. Badmus was surprised with the new development but she assured her mum not to worry, it’s just that she needed to attend to something that needed her urgent attention. Since she didn’t come to Ado in her car, she joined other family members. She only picked few things and also carried her laptop. She told her mum to help her bring the rest of her stuff to Lagos.
She also went to the room where Fullhouse lodged and carried the few things they left behind including the foodstuff sack bag and then left the family house.
Twenty minutes later, she was back.
“So fast.” Fullhouse said.
“I told the bike man who took me to the house to wait behind, he brought me back.” She replied him.
Fullhouse alighted and collected the bags she carried. He placed them inside the booth and the two went back into the car and Fullhouse hit the road.
On their way, Fullhouse mum called. “Fullhouse, where are you?”
“On our way to Ife mum.”
“Really, not even a goodbye.” Mrs. Adeyinka said.
“Mum, I have to attend to something urgently, I’m so sorry ma.”
“It’s okay. By the way, Iwalade’s mum said that Iwalade has left too. All of you just left out of the blue.” She said and Fullhouse looked at Iwalade and she quickly whispered to him not to tell her she is with them.”
“Really…..Okay ma.”
“You don’t know she had left too! In fact, she told her mum to bring her things to Lagos.” Mrs. Adeyinka said.
“Oh! I’ll call her ma.”
“Call her o, because me I don’t understand you this children again o, you left with your wife without saying anything to anyone, now Iwalade too left in a hurry, leaving her things behind.”
“Mummy…..I’ve aplologized nau and as for Iwalade, I said I’ll talk to her.”
“Abi……are you people hiding something.”
“Mum nau….”
“Give the phone to your wife.” Mrs. Adeyinka said.
“I’m driving mum, I’m answering this call via bluetooth, let me concentrate nau.”
“Okay, drive safe. I’ll call her line.” She said and ended the call. Fullhouse sighed after the call.
“Reason, why I don’t want to tell her anything.”
“They worry too much.” Iwalade said and Fullhouse turned to her.
“Why didn’t you tell your Mum that you are going with me?” Fullhouse asked Iwalade.
“If I tell them we are going together, it might fuel suspicion nau.”
“True.” He said and they both looked back when they didn’t hear Ireoluwa talk. She was already sleeping.
“Help me put off her phone, Mum wants to call her.” He said and Iwalade quickly took the phone and put it off.
“Fullhouse but you still have to tell mum, you know. You know your Mummy, she can start praying now and she will find out what is going on.”
“I will, when all this is over.” He said. Fullhouse’s Mum is very spiritual and God do reveal things to her.
“All will soon be over. Just relax; your wife will be fine.” She said. Iwalade could tell from Fullhouse’s look that he is seriously worried.
“I pray so.” He said.
They got to Ife and Fullhouse stopped at a store before they entered their area to get some things they’ll need in the house.
“Do you have sanitary pad in the house?” Iwalade asked Ireoluwa who is now awake.
“I have just few left.” She replied.
“Fullhouse, please get a pack of sanitary pad for her.” Iwalade said.
“Okay.” He said and went into the store. He returned and then fired the engine as they head home.
They got home and thanked God for the safe journey. Ireoluwa was still awake so her husband slowly guards her into their apartment. Iwalade offloads the things in the booth and carried them in one after the other. Fullhouse also joined her as they moved them in.
Ireoluwa switched on her phone and she called her parents just to let them know she’s back from their journey. They couldn’t attend the burial ceremony; they had a family function that weekend as well. She also called her mother inlaw to let her know that they got to Ife safely and she also apologized for leaving without saying goodbye.
Fullhouse quickly showed Iwalade around the house, the guest room and the rest. Ireoluwa was already relaxing in the bedroom. Iwalade told Fullhouse that she’ll help fix dinner, she went into the kitchen and untied the sack bag that was given to Fullhouse and his wife, it contains foodstuff, she brought them out one after the other, tubers of yam, onions, yam flour and fried meat. They also packed stew in a container as well. Iwalade was like ‘these mothers.’
She was still on it when Fullhouse walked into the kitchen, he was surprised too when he saw all the stuff on the kitchen cabinet.
“Awon mummies yi lasan.” He said in Yoruba meaning these mummies, he could have joke about it but he has a lot on his mind. He arranged the foodstuff in the cabinet where they keep them.
“Since there is meat and stew, I think I should just prepare swallow food.” Iwalade said.
“It’s okay.”
“Ask your wife, what she wants so I can prepare for her.” Iwalade said.
“She likes swallow too.”
“Ask her which one she will prefer.”
“Alright.” He said and left the kitchen. Fullhouse went into their bedroom and ask Ireoluwa what she wants for dinner.
“Anything.” She said to her husband.
“Anything does not exist in Iwalade’s dictionary, what exactly do you feel like eating?” He asked.
“Wheat is okay.” She said.
“Okay, by the way, how are you feeling now?” Fullhouse asked.
“I’m okay but the blood is still coming.”
“Don’t worry, it will soon stop.”
“Okay.” She shrugged.
“Let me go and tell Iwalade to make the wheat.” He said and she nodded. He left the room and went back into the kitchen.
Some minutes later, they were all on the dining eating dinner. When they were through, Iwalade packed the plates, she frowned at Ireoluwa who attempted to pack it.
“That’s why I’m here; you don’t have to do anything. Just take care of yourself for us. Is that taken?” Iwalade said to Ireoluwa.
“Yes ma.” She replied and thanked her.
Fullhouse brought her drug and a glass of water and she took it. Fullhouse got a call from work and he had to attend to some things online. So Iwalade helped clean up the kitchen and returned back to the sitting room, she made some calls and then sat beside Ireoluwa who was watching TV.
Fullhouse joined them when he was through with what he was attending to online. The three got talking, Fullhouse was happy that his wife was now feeling much better than earlier.
“Aunty Iwalade, I’m fine now, you and Fullhouse don’t need to worry about me.”
“Okay dear.” Iwalade said but in her mind she shook her head.
Later that night, they all went to sleep but Iwalade said she’ll sleep in the sitting room, the guest room is down the hall but the sitting room is closer to the couple’s bedroom, so she decided to stay closer to them.
“Iwalade, go to bed. She’s fine.” Fullhouse said.
“I’m okay here. Just go to bed with your wife.”
“I know you want to stay close to us.”
“Yes, there’s no point lying. Now that you know, can you please go to bed?” Iwalade said and the couple left for their room. Fullhouse came back with a duvet and gave it to her.
“Do you want me to reduce the Air Condition?” He asked.
“No, the temperature is okay.” She said and thanked him.
“I should be the one thanking you. Goodnight.” He said and went back to the bedroom.

Mrs. Adeyinka, Fullhouse’s Mum woke up in the middle of the night, she was disturbed in her spirit, so she started praying in the Spirit, in the process of doing that, the Holy Spirit led her to pray for Fullhouse and his wife. She didn’t know what to pray about exactly, but the Holy Spirit guided her to pray.
Around past 2:00am, Ireoluwa woke up from her sleep with a sharp pain in her abdomen, she screamed and Fullhouse who was sleeping before woke up immediately.
“Ire!!! What’s going on? Talk to me.”
“My tummy…….” She widened her eyes in pain and screamed again, louder this time. Iwalade woke up immediately she heard the first scream but she hold back. But when she heard Ireoluwa screamed the second time, she rushed to the couple’s bedroom.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 8
Iwalade was still knocking but Fullhouse hurriedly called her in.
“Iwalade come in, the door is not locked.” He shouted. So she rushed inside and ran to hold Ireoluwa.
“The drug she took has started having effect.” Iwalade informed.
“So, this is the effect of the drug?” Fullhouse asked.
“Yes.”
“Aunty Iwalade……..help me…….I can’t bear it any longer.” Ireoluwa groaned in pain.
“Haa…….Iwalade, did you hear what she said?”
“God will take control, just be praying for her. God will give her the strength to bear the pain.”
“Aunty Iwalade………Fullhouse…….I want to die, I want to die.” Ireoluwa screamed with her eyes widely open and Fullhouse started panicking.
“Ah…..I’m finished. Iwalade, let’s take her to the hospital. Nothing must happen to my wife o.”
“We are not going to the hospital. If we go to the hospital, they can’t do anything to help once they know the drug she took.”
“How do you know all these?” Fullhouse asked.
“It has happened to a friend of mine before.” She replied.
“So, you knew all these will happen?”
“Yes, that’s the reason why I followed you home.”
“Jesus! So are we just going to sit and watch her in pains?” Fullhouse said shivering in fear.
“Yes, she needs us to be strong for her, so pull yourself together and act like a man.”
“Act like a man! Ireoluwa is an only child, I hope you still remember.”
“Nothing will happen to her in Jesus name.” Iwalade prayed.
“Amen……Iwalade…… let’s go to the hospital.” He drawled.
“Everything will soon be over, just calm down.” She said, looking at the wall clock. She was still holding Ireoluwa who is wincing in pain.
“What can I do now?” Fullhouse asked.
“Can we get a small plastic bucket, like a paint bucket?” Iwalade asked.
“Yes, I think we have that in the house.” He replied.
“Good, go get it.” She said and he hurried out. Fullhouse returned with a yellow paint bucket.
“Ireoluwa, I need you to sit on this plastic bucket. Is that okay?” Iwalade said and Ireoluwa nodded.
Iwalade helped her pulled her pants down and removed the sanitary pad which was already soaked. She placed the bucket on the floor beside the bed and made her sit on it. Iwalade sat on the bed behind Ireoluwa just to hold her from behind.
The blood kept coming out, the pain increasing, Ireoluwa cried and her helpless husband stoop beside her crying as well. Iwalade eyes were a little bit misty too but she had to hold it together, feeling pity for the couple.
“Ah……Something wants to come out of my body.” Ireoluwa said with her eyes widened.
“Good, once it comes out you will be fine.”
“Really?” Fullhouse said.
“Yes, she’ll be fine once it comes out.” Iwalade replied him. Ireoluwa screamed and pushed for the thing to come out. She cried the more. Fullhouse held her hands, both crying while Iwalade who was sitting behind her held her shoulders.
“Sorry!!” That was what the two kept on saying to Ireoluwa. At last a lump of tissue was discharged from her private part.
“It’s out.” Ireoluwa informed them.
“Thank God.” Fullhouse and Iwalade chorused. Fullhouse cleaned her teary face and kissed her forehead. Ireoluwa began to feel relieved.
“Let’s get you to the bathroom, so you can shower.” Iwalade said and Fullhouse pulled her up gently. Iwalade carried the bucket. “Where’s the toilet?” She asked and Fullhouse pointed to the door of the toilet. Iwalade entered the toilet and emptied the content inside the water closet and flushed repeatedly till the water in the closet was clean. Then Fullhouse carried his wife into the bathroom and bathed her and brought her back into the room.
“I’ll take it from here, get a sanitary pad and pant.” Iwalade said to Fullhouse and he quickly went into the wardrobe to get them. Iwalade dried Ireoluwa’s body with a towel.
“Where is the…..” Iwalade was still saying.
“Here.” Fullhouse said and handed it to Iwalade. He had already fixed the sanitary pad on the pant. They helped her into it and her husband took her to the bed where she lied down to sleep.
“You’ll need a shower too.” Iwalade said to the sweaty Fullhouse. He checked out himself and he realized she was so right. He turned and walked towards the bathroom.
“I’ll wait till you are through.” Iwalade said to him, looking at Ireoluwa who was about to sleep.
“Okay.” He replied and entered into the bathroom. He returned and Iwalade stood up to leave.
“Thank you so much dear cousin, I wouldn’t have been able to do all these without you.” He said.
“All thanks to God. You two should have a good rest.” She said to him.
“You too.”
“I’ll be in the guest room now.” Iwalade said.
“I know right, mission accomplished.”
“Yeah, something like that.” She said and left the room.
Fullhouse lay beside his wife; he caressed her hair and planted a kiss on her forehead.
“I’m sorry you had to go through all that. I’m so sorry.”
“I couldn’t have done it without the both of you.” She replied weakly. He kissed her forehead again and they drifted to sleep.
Iwalade took a shower as well when she got to the guest room, she didn’t sleep straight away she first had her quiet time even though it was past her quiet time hour. In her prayers, she thanked God for taking control of the situation. She had to round up quickly so she could sleep, she was so tired.

******
The next morning which was Monday, it was Ireoluwa’s sob that woke Fullhouse up. By the time he checked her face, it was wet with tears.
“Sweetheart, you don’t need this. We should thank God instead.” He said as he pulled her closer to him.
“Fullhouse, I thought I would die.” She said in a teary voice.
“I’m sorry you had to go through all that.” Fullhouse said, as the painful ordeal his wife went through flashed through his mind. The episode was indeed frightening; he almost loosed it as well, if not for Iwalade that God used for them.
“I should have listened to you.” Ireoluwa stated.
“No way, I won’t take that from you. Never you blame yourself for what happened. What will be will be.”
“Our baby…..” She said as tears run down from her cheek.
“God will give us another. You should be more concern about your health, so please stop crying, it’s breaking my heart.” Fullhouse cuddled her and she nodded.
Ireoluwa stood up from the bed. “Where are you going?” Fullhouse asked.
“I want to use the rest room.” She replied, Fullhouse got out of bed, she was still very weak, so he accompanied her. She changed her sanitary pad and then left the room for the sitting room.
“Let me call Iwalade so we can have our morning prayers.” Fullhouse said. He knocked on the guest room door.
“Come in.” Iwalade said. The two exchanged greetings and before Iwalade knew it, Fullhouse was lying flat on the tiled floor.
“Fullhouse! What’s the meaning of this?”
“Iwalade, I don’t just know how best to thank you, I don’t know but I know that I will never forget what you did for me and my wife last night.”
“All thanks to God. You know what, God don’t leave His own people. He will always create a way to help. That help can come from anybody but I’m glad that God used me for you guys. So please let us all give thanks to God.” She said.
“Thank you.” He said once again and then stood up. “It’s time for morning prayers; please join us in the sitting room.” He informed.
“After you.” Iwalade said and followed Fullhouse as he stepped out of the room.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

Chapter 8(continuation)
Fullhouse was the first to get to the sitting room, he sat beside his wife and Iwalade walked in. Immediately, Ireoluwa saw her she walked towards her, Iwalade opened her arms and embraced her, Ireoluwa burst into tears and went on her knees as weak as she was.
“Thank you ma, thank you so much, I won’t forget everything you did for me. Thank…..”
“It’s okay…..” Iwalade shushed her and pulled her up. If she didn’t stop Ireoluwa, she was ready to go on and on thanking her. “How are you feeling now?” She asked.
“I’m fine but the blood is still coming.”
“Don’t worry, it will stop with time.” She said and turned to Fullhouse. “You have the doctor’s number right?”
“Yes.” He replied.
“Let’s call him later and tell him the situation of things. So he can tell us if there’s anything else to do.”
“Alright, I’ll call him later then.” He said and they all settled down for prayers.
After the prayer, Fullhouse was disturbed, he felt like staying behind with his wife, she looks pale and very weak and he didn’t want to give excuses for not going to the office.
“Fullhouse, are you not going to work, have you forgotten that today is Monday?” Iwalade asked his cousin.
“I’m still thinking whether to call my boss to ask for permission, I don’t want to leave Ireoluwa all alone, and I don’t know when you want to take off.” He explained.
“Don’t worry your head, go and dress up for work.”
“Iwalade, don’t tell me, you want to stay behind.”
“I’m staying till she’s up and doing. As you can see, she’s still very weak; she can’t be left all alone.” She said pointing at Ireoluwa who was watching the dialogue between the two cousins. By the time Fullhouse understood the message Iwalade just passed across, he was speechless.
“Aww…..thank you ma.” Ireoluwa said with a smile on her face, earlier, she was not happy that morning because she knew Fullhouse will have to go to work and leave her all alone in the house.
“You mean you want to stay….” He was saying but she cut in.
“All I need is my laptop and I took it along with me, so go to work. I’ll take care of your wife.”
“Thank you, you are a life saver.” He said putting his palms together.
Fullhouse went back to the room with his wife, he bathed her, helped her into her clothing and then went back to the bathroom to bath, he had to be in the office by 8:00am and he has just few minutes left to achieve that. After dressing up, he kissed his wife who was already lying on the bed, goodbye and rushed out.
He ran into Iwalade who was holding a tea cup in her right hand and a lunch bag on her left hand.
“Take this.” She said and handed him the cup of tea.
“Thanks.” He said and took the tea.
“Here is your lunch.” He handed the bag to him.
“Food is ready!”
“Yes and I’m about to go serve your wife too.” Iwalade replied and Fullhouse paused to take another look at her.
“When will this lucky guy show up? He is already missing out on a lot of things.” He said with all concern. Iwalade just smiled.
“Have a great day and don’t worry about Ireoluwa.”
“I’ll try not to; you two should take care of yourself.” He said and she nodded.
Fullhouse left and Iwalade went back into the kitchen to dish Ireoluwa’s food. She also made hot pap for her to take first before taking the main dish. She knocked and entered into the room. She served and she ate the food even though she didn’t finish everything but Iwalade was still satisfied with the portion she ate.
Later in the day, Fullhouse called Iwalade to check on them, he didn’t want to call his wife in case she might be sleeping. Iwalade told him Ireoluwa was awake, so he called her too after speaking with Iwalade. He also called the doctor and he had prescribed some drugs which he promised to buy on his way home.
Days later, Iwalade got a call from Mrs. Williams who was worried about her, she had checked on her at her house twice but she wasn’t home. Iwalade told her that she’s in Ife at her cousin’s place but promised to be home by weekend. Kayode also called to check on her and she told him the same thing.
The couple had already confessed everything that happened to their parents and they all know that Iwalade was with them. They spoke with Ireoluwa who confirmed that she was now feeling okay. The weakness had gone and her skin tone that was pale before was better.
On Friday evening, Iwalade announced to the couple that she’ll be leaving the next day which was Saturday. Ireoluwa is now strong enough to stay alone in the house, her recovery was fast and they owe it all to God.
Ireoluwa was not happy at the news because she would miss Iwalade. She is now so much attached to her over the week but they just have to let her go, she had done enough for her. The couple thanked her wholeheartedly; Fullhouse went as far as praying for her that God in his infinite mercy will grant her all her heart desires as well.
That night before going to bed, Mrs. Williams called to ask if Iwalade is still coming to Lagos on Saturday.
“You miss me that much.” Iwalade said jokingly and she laughed.
“Hmm….I guess so.” Mrs. Williams said with smile plastered on her face.
“Don’t worry, we’ll see tomorrow by God’s grace.”
“Imisioluwa is in Ife as we speak, that’s the reason why I called.”
“Really! What’s he doing in Ife?” Iwalade asked.
“He came to see his Uncle; the man is a professor in OAU. In fact, he has been around since yesterday and he’s leaving Ife tomorrow morning.”
“Oh!” Iwalade said, still wondering why Mrs. Williams was giving her details of her son’s movement. “So……”
“I’m saying he can bring you back to Lagos nau since you are coming back tomorrow as well.”
“Oh, now I get you but that wouldn’t be necessary.” Iwalade objected.
“Who is bringing you? You said you didn’t travel in your car.”
“Nobody is bringing me; I’ll take a public transport.”
“Public transport, you think people don’t know you, right because your face is not on camera.”
“People don’t really know me; the only ones who do, are the few people that follow me online.”
“You think so, so how did I now recognize you?”
“But your son did not.”
“That’s because all he does is see American movies.”
“That’s what I’m saying it’s because you are a fan of my works that is why you were able to recognize my face when you saw me.”
“I sha recognize you, that’s the fact.”
“Okay, I’ve heard you.” Iwalade gave up.
“Let a private car take you home, you don’t need a public transport.” Mrs. Williams insisted.
“Our timing may not be the same; I may want to help my cousin fix one thing or the other before I leave.”
“He’ll wait for you nau….you just call Imisioluwa and tell him when you want to leave.”
“Ma, don’t bother. Your son and I are not on a talking level like that, I don’t even have his number.”
“What do you mean by you two are not on a talking level. He is your younger brother, just demand anything you want from him and he’ll oblige.”
“Your son may be young but I hope you remember he is a big boy.”
“Big boy to others not to somebody like you nau….”
“Oh….Mummy Williams, you’ve not really get to know me o, if you do, you’ll understand me better.”
“Who told you I don’t know you. I know you don’t like to burden people but you are good in carrying other people’s burden on your head.”
“God……” Iwalade shook her head. Mrs. Williams was actually correct.
“Now you know that I know you well. Anyway, I’ve sent your number to him; he’ll give you a call.”
“Okay ma. Thanks for your help.”
“Thank you too for obliging. By the way, your gateman is resuming on Monday.” Mrs. Williams announced.
“Wow, you are wonderful. Thanks so much ma.”
“But he’ll come tomorrow evening so you can check him out, probably interview him.”
“Haven’t you done that already?”
“Of course I have.” Mrs. Williams replied.
“I trust you.” Iwalade smiled.
“I told him, he’ll also help you run some side errands as well, like handling the generator and cleaning the compound since he won’t be doing much. He may not even open the gate for days since you don’t go out everyday.”
“You are right ma, thank you. You’ve fixed everything.”
“Anything for you my dear, see you tomorrow then.”
“By God’s grace. Goodnight ma.” She said. Mrs. Williams replied her and ended the call.
Iwalade checked the call duration; they talked for twenty eight minutes, twelve seconds. Then she remembered she now has a gateman and smiled. She later slept off.

Thanks for the updates ma'am.

Thanks ma

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 9
Iwalade woke up the next morning. She checked her phone, no missed call. Imisioluwa didn’t call either. She quickly did some house chores just to relief Fullhouse for the weekend.
The couple came out into the sitting room around 6:30am and they all had their morning devotion. After the morning devotion, Fullhouse told Iwalade that he’ll take her to Lagos once she’s ready.
“Don’t bother, that is stress, don’t you think?”
“Let him take you nau, driving from Ife to Lagos is no big to Fullhouse.” Ireoluwa said, trying to tease Fullhouse.
“Oh, I heard you gave my cousin tough time when you were playing hard to get.” Iwalade said to Ireoluwa and they all laughed.
Driving from Ife to Lagos is indeed no big deal to Fullhouse. “Don’t mind her jare; she’s mine now at least those efforts were not wasted.” Fullhouse said.
“Hmm…..” Ireoluwa said and smiled.
“Anyway, like I said before, Fullhouse don’t bother to take me, I’ll find my way.”
“Don’t tell me you want to take a public transport, you are a celeb o, you know.” He said.
“Oh……why is everyone saying this. I’m not that popular; I’m not an actor nau.”
“An award winning screen writer is not popular, right. Anyway, I’m taking……” He was still saying then Iwalade’s phone rang.
“Hold on.” Iwalade said and picked the call.
“Hello, Imisioluwa on the line.”
“Oh! Imisi.” She said. They discussed on when to leave and they agreed on leaving by 11:00am.
“Can I wait for you at the express?” Iwalade asked.
“No o, you want my mum to break my head.” Imisioluwa replied and Iwalade laughed. She was sure it was Mrs. Williams that instigated the whole thing. “Just send the address; I’ll come pick you up.” He said.
“Okay, thanks.” She said and the line went off.
“Who is coming to pick you?” Fullhouse asked curiously because he was sure Iwalade knew no one in Ife.
“My neighbour’s son.”
“Which neighbour, from your new neighbourhood?”
“Yes, I met this woman in my estate. She recognized me the very day we met in front of my house and she said she’s a fan and ever since then we’ve been friends.” She explained.
“Now, you know you are quite popular.” Ireoluwa said with a smile.
“Seriously, I’m not. Sincerely, it’s just few people that recognize me.”
“Whatever, so the guy is taking you to your Lagos.” Fulhouse said.
“Yes, his mum called last night and informed me that her son is here in Ife. I was surprised though. She said he’ll call but I didn’t hear from him till now.” She said squeezing her face.
“With this face of yours, I’m very sure you don’t want to ride with the guy.” Fullhouse said.
“I won’t lie, I don’t. The journey will be boring. I don’t really know the guy and he is young, what will I be possibly discussing with him.”
“Hmmm……did you come with your ear piece?” Fullhouse asked.
“Yes.”
“Then make use of it.”
“Good idea.” Iwalade said.
“Really! Good idea! That’s rude! Aunty Iwalade, don’t listen to him. Why will someone give you a ride and you won’t at least keep his company.” Ireoluwa stated.
“Hmm….she’s kind of right though.” Fullhouse finally agreed.
“She’s kind of right though.” Ireoluwa mimicked her husband. “As if you can take that from any lady.” She added.
“You are right, I won’t like it but they are not on talking terms.” Fullhouse stated.
“You and I are not on talking terms the first time you brought me to school but I didn’t wear an ear piece to shut you out.” Ireoluwa reminded him.
“Point taken.” Fullhouse surrendered.
“Enough of discussing about me, Ireoluwa, I’ll do as you have said. No ear piece.”
“Yes, no ear piece. And guess what, young guys are fun to be with. So free yourself.” Ireoluwa advised.
“Yes ma…….” Iwalade said playfully and they all laughed.
“Wifey, you win.” Fullhouse said to Ireoluwa and she winked at him. Iwalade looked at the both of them and smiled, she was glad the couple is happy again.
“Now, let me quickly fix breakfast, so I can start preparing.” She said. She left for the kitchen and Ireoluwa followed her but trust Iwalade she didn’t allow her do anything, Ireoluwa was just there in the kitchen to keep her company.
“I’ll miss you ma.” Ireoluwa said.
“Same here sister inlaw.” Iwalade replied jokingly.
“I thought it was only my husband that was selfless until I met you.”
“Ireoluwa…….Seriously, this is nothing.”
“You think so; this is a big deal for me. I mean, you are way older than me. I’m married, you are single and you still humble yourself to this level. You are also a big woman, rich but still….I’m even speechless right now.”
“Ireoluwa……”
“Aunty Iwalade, you fed me, you did my laundry, you nurse me back to health, and you even attended to my husband’s needs as well. Sincerely, I have a lot to learn from you.”
“We are nothing but dust my sister, the height I attained today is not my doing at all, I owe it to God. Have you heard about my past before?” Iwalade asked.
“Yes, Fulhouse told me about your dad and all. He told me how you struggled to get to where you are today.”
“I give all the glory back to God. So, who am I, that I will be forming big woman. God can even take everything away in a split of seconds, so why brag about your achievements.”
“Hmm…. you are right ma. You and my husband are kind of similar in character and in thinking and this made me love you the more.”
“Really, I’m blushing…..”
“I pray for you, that God in His mercy will give you a home too, and a wonderful man that will compliment you.”
“Amen…….in Jesus name.” Iwalade dropped what she was doing and put her palms together.
“You are a child of God; I know God will not fail you.” Ireoluwa prayed.
“Amen.”
“And I pray for you too, God will restore you and visit you again.” Iwalade prayed.
“Amen.”
“You will never experience miscarriage again in Jesus name.”
“Amen.”
“You will carry every pregnancy to term in Jesus name.”
“Amen.”
“Remember what I told you yesterday, you don’t have to brood over what happened, forget about the things you went through, it’s now in the past. Just rejoice and give thanks always and don’t for once leave your God.”
“Okay ma. Thank you.”
“Don’t worry; I’m coming back to Ife to eat jollof rice.”
“Amen…..thank you ma.” Ireoluwa said.
Iwalade checked on the food she was cooking and it was done. She turned off the gas cooker and started serving the food.
It was few minutes to 11:00am; Iwalade had already packed her things waiting for Imisioluwa to show up. Then her phone rang, she picked the call.
“Are you ready?”
“Yes.”
“I’m outside.” Imisioluwa informed.
“Okay. I’ll join you soon.” She said and the line went off. Iwalade informed the couple that she is leaving. A tear escaped Ireoluwa’s eyes as she hugged Iwalade.
“Tell her not to miss you o.” Fullhouse quickly told his cousin.
“Did you hear that, don’t miss me and fall sick o.”
“I won’t ma. Don’t mind him; I’m a changed person now.”
“She is actually. I’m just saying because I know the two of you have bonded.” Fullhouse said.
“I know right but not to worry Ireoluwa, we’ll always talk.”
“Yes ma.” She smiled.
The couple accompanied Iwalade outside while Fullhouse carried her bag. They saw Imisi’s Benz G-Class parked outside the gate. He alighted from the car when he spotted Iwalade. They all exchanged greetings as Iwalade introduced them. Imisi collected the bag from Fullhouse and put it on the back seat and they boarded the car while the couple waved them good bye.
“Cute guy.” Ireoluwa commented with her arms folded across her chest.
“Yeah and from his look and that smashing car, I bet he came from a wealthy home.” Fullhouse added.
“True, I agree.” Ireoluwa said.
“I wish he is way older, that would have been a good match for my dear cousin.” Fullhouse said, thinking out loud.
“Now, we are thinking the same thing but the guy looks young but the physique is not bad anyway.” She pointed out.
“Now you want to make me jealous.” He said and folded his arms across his chest too and gave his wife a keen look.
“Don’t be nau, you know you are my prince charming.” She smiled at him and he smiled back.

Beautiful story as usual rachealfst, keep up the good work. Kudos.

What's the but again

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

Chapter 9(continuation)
In the car on their way to Lagos, Iwalade decided to loosen up base on what Ireoluwa told her, that young chap are fun to be with and of a truth, her sister in-law was right. Imisioluwa too enjoyed her company. At first, he thought Iwalade was the rigid type, although he knew she was flexible with his mum but for her to still be single despite everything she has, Imisioluwa assumed she’ll be rigid to men but he was wrong.
Before the two of them knew it, they were laughing heartily in the car as they gist. They talked about so many things on their journey from Ife to Lagos and Imisioluwa’s intelligence wowed Iwalade.
“Now, I know why your Mum is so proud of you.” Iwalade said to Imisioluwa.
“And now I know also the reason why my mum took someone who is younger than her as her personal person.”
Iwalade laughed. “You think?”
“I don’t think, I know. My mum talks about you like a teenager who is talking about her new found lover.”
“You don’t mean it.”
“I’m serious; she talks about you all the time. You hear things like Iwalade said this, Iwalade did this, Iwalade did that and I’m kind of jealous, I won’t lie.” Imisioluwa said truthfully.
“Really!”
“Yea, before you came into the picture, I’m her everything but now. Once she ask me something and I’m still trying to figure it out, you’ll hear ‘don’t worry, I’ll ask Iwalade’ and I’ll be like, seriously!” Imisi gestured with his right hand and Iwalade laughed.
Later on, their gist was interrupted by a call, immediately Imisioluwa peeped at the call and saw the caller, he frowned, curious Iwalade had to stylishly peep at Imisi’s phone and it was Nike, their domestic staff that was calling.
Imisioluwa had his bluetooth stucked on his right ear but he did not pick the call. The two got back to their conversation again.
“Tell me about your cousin and his wife.” Imisi said and she told him they just got married few months ago and all.
“Lovely couple.” He said.
“Yea, lovely couple.” She attested.
“But your cousin’s wife is very….young.”
“She’s 19.”
“Wow! 19! Why the rush?”
“Well, if you find someone who gives you happiness, why the wait.” Iwalade replied.
“Hmm….true, life is short.”
“They love each other and decided to spend the rest of their lives together, age shouldn’t stop that. As long as she’s not a minor.”
“You are right you know. I agree with you.” He said.
“Good.”
“Is it okay to spend a week in the house of a newly wedded couple?” Imisioluwa asked.
“Just tell it to me straight that I am an intruder.” Iwalade said and he laughed hard.
“Eh, don’t take it personally. I didn’t mean it that way.”
“Of course that is what it implies, by the way how did you find out I spent a week in Ife.”
“Mum told me of course.”
“I see.”
“Seriously you are a writer, do you think its okay?”
“Let me start by answering your first question. I wasn’t there for holiday or to have fun, there is a situation I had to help with.” She stated.
“They had a fight?”
“No, but the truth is that couples fight, its normal. The most important thing is to settle and move on.”
“Hmm…. You know so much about relationship.” Imisioluwa said.
“You think so.”
“I know so. I hope you were able to fix the situation.”
“Yea, God took control.”
“Good to hear then.” He said, shaking his head slowly.
“To answer your second question, being a writer does not make me a marriage or relationship coach.”
“But you people write about romance and all.”
“True but still I don’t know it all; I’m not even married yet.”
“Hmm….” Imisisoluwa wanted to ask her why she is still single but he changed his mind. That question sounds too personal. “Well, I still believe you know much about relationship, at least from our conversation so far, I can tell.” He insisted.
“Okay o, think anything you want Imisi.” He said and they both laughed.
Few minutes later, Mrs. Williams’ call came in on Iwalade’s phone.
“It’s your mum.” She announced and Imisi gave her a ‘you see….’ look. She smiled and pick

Missmossy:
Beautiful story as usual rachealfst, keep up the good work. Kudos.

Thank you ma.

Missmossy:
Beautiful story as usual rachealfst, keep up the good work. Kudos.

chapter edited, you can read it all over again.

Hello everyone, just noticed that yesterday's post is not complete read chapter 9 again, I have edited it.

rachealfst:
chapter edited, you can read it all over again.

Okay ma’am welldone.

Wow finally
Thank u BT my problem with ur story is this okade issues sth of a thing ...

Christipsy:
Wow finally
Thank u BT my problem with ur story is this okade issues sth of a thing ...

Okadabooks is easy to access.

More Than A Craving
Written by Toyin Taiwo

CHAPTER 10
Iwalade and Mrs. Williams have become so close that Mrs. Willliams now visit her place often. They discuss about so many things including their personal life. There was a day Mrs. Willliams asked Iwalade about her marital life and she told her everything. Iwalade also told her about her family members when she asked. Mrs. Williams had one time met with Iwalade’s Mum when she came visiting, Iwalade introduced them and asked her Mum to help her thank Mrs. Williams who had been so good to her ever since they met.
On a Friday morning, Mrs. Williams gave Iwalade a call, she said she was at home that very day and asked if she could come over and she accepted. That day, Mrs. Williams had made up her mind to discuss her private life with Iwalade, she trusted her that much. There’s one thing that Mrs. Williams had observed about Iwalade, she will never ask you anything personal unless you tell her. Iwalade tidy up some work on her laptop and then went to Mrs. Willliams’ house.
“Iwalade, won’t you ask me about my husband or you just assumed that I’m a single mother?” She said as the two chilled together in the private sitting room upstairs.
“Ma, I’m sorry, it’s just that when we first met, you told me, all you have is you and your son and I don’t want to press further.”
“You are right, I said so but I expect you to still ask, you are now close to me than when we first met.”
“You are right ma but I don’t like poke nosing.” She said and Mrs. Williams smiled, that’s the kind of people she liked, people who don’t poke nose or gossip.
“Well, here is my story and I don’t mind if you turn it into a movie.” She said with a smile.
“We’ll see what we can do about it.” Iwalade smiled back.
“I got married a bit late, I’m a Christian and I so much believe in waiting on God. So many suitors came but once I pray about them and I’m not convinced, I let them go. My family members complained a lot but I didn’t allow anyone force me into a marriage I won’t enjoy. I was like that until I was 34years old, then I met my husband, Imisioluwa’s father.”
“Hmm…..” Iwalade sighed lightly and adjusted on her seat, as she paid rapt attention to Mrs. Williams’ story while she continued.
“We actually met at a wedding party in Ijebu, Ogun state. The bride was my boss’ daughter, so almost all the staff attended the wedding while Olumide Williams, I mean my late husband and the groom were cousins. The couple are both from wealthy families, so it was a grand wedding and all the guests had a swear time. It was during the reception that I noticed that he kept on staring at me, and once our gaze fixed, he will quickly look away, all that went on till the party ended, myself and my colleagues were ready to leave, then he walked up to me. He asked if he can have few words with me, I actually hesitated at first because we were ready to leave but he pleaded with him.
‘One minute.’ I said to him and he sighed.
‘I can’t say everything in my heart in one minute.’ He said and I checked my wrist watch.
‘50 seconds more.’
‘Fine, I want to meet you again.’ He said and one of my colleagues called out my name.
‘Alice, the bus is ready to leave.’ My colleague said.
‘I can take you to wherever you are going to; you can tell them to go ahead.’ He said.
‘You can’t take me, I don’t even know you.’ I said, he wanted to say something but, I heard another colleague of mine calling again. ‘I need to go now.’ I said and turned.
‘Please wait, how can I contact you?’ He said because there was no mobile phone then. It was only the rich people who have telephones at home and in offices back then. All you have then is a public pay phone, where you can call those who have landlines.
‘I looked at him from head to toe, he was a fine man.’ Iwalade looked at the face of Mrs. Williams who was talking, Iwalade was surprised at what she saw on her face, and she had to interrupt her.
“Ma, you are blushing.”
“Really, well my husband was a fine, tall ma

Iwalade looked at the face of Mrs. Williams who was talking, Iwalade was surprised at what she saw on her face, and she had to interrupt her.
“Ma, you are blushing.”
“Really, well my husband was a fine, tall man with a chocolate skin, what you people now call brown skin.” She said smiling.
“Hmmm….”Iwalade smiled.
“Once you see Imisioluwa, then you already know what my husband looked like. I’m so happy, he took after his father, and the only disadvantage is that girls kept on running after him when he was still in school but Imisioluwa is a wonderful boy, he always put those girls in their place.”
“Hmm…. keep on rooting for your son.” Iwalade said and the two laughed.
“Now, back to my story.” She said and then continued.
‘Let me have your contact, I’ll reach out.’ He said to me.
‘I should have given you my card but I know you will not call me.’ He replied but I told him there’s no way he can reach me, so he had no choice than to give me his card.
“And he was right, I didn’t call.” Mrs. Williams said and went back to her story. “Unknown to me, he had already gotten information about us at the party, I mean myself and my colleagues because we were given our own table at the party, so he knew we worked for the bride’s mother and he knew the company so well, so while I was still hesitating on calling him. He then showed up in my office out of the blue. I was so surprise, so I had no choice than to give him audience that very day and he told me everything in his mind. I realized how serious he was on my case and I decided it’s time to start praying about it. I prayed and fasted and I was convinced he was the one. So, I talked to my Pastors and my parents about it and they all prayed about it and every one gave me a go ahead that God is involved. I started giving him attention then we started courting. Olumide Williams loved me with the whole of his heart, I got to know that he was rich, he actually came from a wealthy family but I don’t know the extent until he took me to his company. I on the other hand was from an average family, but I was surprised that his family accepted me wholeheartedly despite the fact that they only marry from their caucus in those days, so I was the only exception among the wives in the Williams’ family; I was the only one who came from a humble background. They weren’t even spiritual; I would have thought maybe it was God that convinced them. Even my husband is just a regular Christian, nothing near been spiritual. I’m the one that used to do all the prayers, he doesn’t even have time, and he is always occupied with his business. One day, I visited my mother inlaw to-be while we were still courting, I was still curious about the smooth acceptance but when my mother inlaw to-be and I got talking, I then realized that my husband of 39 years old never brought a lady home for once and they knew if they rejected me, he may not bring another lady anytime soon so they just have to accept me regardless of my status.”
“No wonder.” Iwalade said and Mrs. Williams continued.
“Okay then, let me go back to my story.”
“Before I go back to where I stopped, I forgot to tell you something.”
“What ma?”
“Few weeks to our wedding, I started having some terrible dreams but once I tell my fiancé, he’ll tell me that it’s nothing. He even said maybe I was just having cold feet because the wedding day is drawing near. I thought of telling my mum but I don’t want to bother her as they were all busy preparing for the wedding. Another thing is that ever since I started dating Olumide Williams, my spiritual life started dropping and the reason is that, we always go out every now and then, so many date nights and all. And you know for someone who is rich he takes me out almost every time and buy me gifts, he even bought me a car, I changed my wardrobe, I started wearing expensive things and because of all these things, I got carried away and started relaxing spiritually.”
““Hmm……” Iwalade who was so curious on how th