₦airaland Forum

Forgive me guys for disappearing ☺️☺️..... Have a blast weekend.

Hmmm, thanks for the update

Wow… welcome back. But honestly you owe us about 5 more episodes for starving us this long 😩

Adeola25:
Hmmm, thanks for the update

❤️❤️

Sochee123:
Wow… welcome back. But honestly you owe us about 5 more episodes for starving us this long 😩

😂😂😂 You're right.... I'll surely make up for my nepa pattern

Chapter 44


The house looked exactly the same, but the air was heavier now, like it knew secrets were being hatched behind its walls.

I walked in and immediately spotted them, Senator Sunday and Emeka, lounging like nothing happened, sipping red wine like the courtroom had never existed.

But that doesn't erase the memory from my natural God's given record book. I remember the moment the judge delivered his verdict, loud and clear.

The senator’s face had turned a violent shade of red. He looked like one who saw a ghost. That day, he cursed fire and brimstone. He yelled at Zachary, banged his fist on the wooden bench, stormed out like a wounded lion.

"She’ll pay for this! She thinks it’s over?! I made her and I will unmake her!"

That was the man I was staring at now, calm, calculated, sipping wine like none of that happened.

This bald headed creature disgusts me.
How quickly men like him wear new faces. How easily they flip from fury to charm. Now, here he was, calmly pouring drinks, sharing a bottle with the man who ruined my life.

I looked at Emeka and forced a smile. A wide, glossy, plastic smile. He grinned stupidly. Of course he would. His LovePeddler was lying in a hospital bed with her skin falling off, but here he was, eyeing me like I was a suya shawarma.

No pity for her. She walked into my home, my life, and thought she could play. Well, she got burned. Literally. That should serve as a lesson to all this stupid, dumb girls roaming about the streets half naked, chasing after people's husbands.

I picked up my glass, settled beside them like it was my rightful place and sipped my wine slowly, with my newly manicured fingers drumming softly on the table.

Words can't describe how I feel. Why did it take me this long to awaken this part of me?. I love her so much.

Emeka couldn’t stop staring. I pretended not to notice. Let him crave what he destroyed. The obsession was still alive, and I was going to use it.

“Daddy, I’d like to have some water” I said with a sweet smile.

Senator raised a hand to summon the maid, but I stopped him.

“I’ll get it myself” gracefully, I rose.

As I entered the kitchen, I immediately hid by the door

“Just talk to her” Senator muttered. “You know how dumb this one is. She’s always been obsessed with you, so yeah… she’ll give in”

Interesting

“She didn’t act surprised seeing me. Did you inform her?” The hegoat Emeka asked.

“I did” Senator replied. “Oya, oya go after her. I doubt she’ll give in today, but keep trying. This one no get strong head. If na the other one now, you for know how far”

I nearly laughed out loud. So this is how they see me? Stupid, naive and weak. No wahala, no problem at all.

I immediately rushed to the fridge when I heard the sound of approaching footsteps. Quickly, I got out a bottle of Cway water and gulped in a little.

Five

Four

Three

Two

One

“Uduak”

Just right on time.

I remained on my position, refusing to turn around.

“Uduak….. my love”

I mentally rolled my eyes, tis one really has a master's degree in foolishness.

“Why are you here?” I asked, sounding sober.

“I miss you so much my love”.

I turned slowly, as if the sound of his voice affected me. Let him believe the softness was real.

“You left. With our baby. You just left”

I said nothing. My eyes were on the floor. He moved closer.

“When I heard you lost her… I was devastated. I know I said I didn't want it but you still kept it. That should how much you valued what we share….. the product of our love” he said, his voice dropping like it carried real pain. “You should have stayed. You should have prayed for me. That’s what partners do. They fight, fall and rise together”

So now we're spiritual? It's the audacity for me. Men and audacity….. 5&6

“It was the devil,” he continued “He tried to destroy us. I wasn’t perfect...... I was broken. But you were my calm. You were my peace”

“You broke me” I whispered.

His face fell, as though he didn’t expect me to say anything that real. Slowly, he went on his kness

“I’m sorry my love” he said, holding onto my dress“I miss you…. I miss us”

I batted my lashes, let out some drop of tears.

“I don’t trust you,” I said softly, lips trembling. “And I’m scared. Everything changed. I changed. I love you…. I loved you with everything in me Emeka” The sound of his name rolling off my lips had me cringing in disgust.

He nodded, pretending to understand, but I saw the fire behind his eyes.

“You still love me. I can see it” he whispered.

“I don’t know” I said, my voice cracking. “Maybe. But I can’t do this right now”
I gently pushed past him and walked out, my heart beating steadily.

They want to play games, I'm all in.

No be small thing oo, usual on the beat

Damilgodwin:
No be small thing oo, usual on the beat

😅😅

Chapter 45
Ruby’s POV

I stood in front of my standing mirror as I powered my beautiful face. Today is gonna be a good day, I cal literally feel it in my bones.

I'm finally resuming work!!

It had been weeks since I left my house….. weeks of staying at home, sleeping, eating, watching Netflix, chilling and occasionally being smothered by care. The Edward brothers were constantly checking in, always insisting I rest. As much as I appreciated it, I am glad to be stepping out.

The compound on the other hand has become too dramatic for my peace of mind.

I smiled slightly, applying lip gloss, as my mind wandered back to the day I returned. That day was something else.

True to her word, Landlady had thrown a mini welcome party. There were coolers of food… jollof, fried rice, chicken, fish, salad enough to feed an army. And zobo. Buckets of it. All in my name. Oh, least I forget, she also prepared Ekpang-kukwo, my favorite. Funny how she remembered that.

But what cracked me up most was how she clung to the Edward brothers. Yeah, they insisted to drop me at home.

“Ribbon, Ribbon, which one be our in-law now, ehn? Talk true make I know where to channel this pounded yam! See as then fresh”

The woman didn’t let them rest. She was full of praises, hovering around them like they were honey.

And then there was Ekene. My sweet Eke boy. That child nearly talked my ears off before I even sat down.

“Aunty Ruby, that woman for downstairs fight with salon boy last week oh! Then Iyawo dun park go another street oh! Eeeehen, that cat don born?!”

He was so excited, updating me on everything I had missed, jumping up and down until his mother gave him a soft tap on the lips and told him to let me rest.

I hadn’t even fully processed all that when Amaka and her baby daddy gave us an alarming display.

He had stormed into the compound one of the days, face rugged and voice raised. I can't tell what Amaka sees in him cause I see nothing. The guy is constantly high. I don't know if it's colos or weed he takes.

Next thing I heard was shouting. Then punches. He was beating Amaka!.

Like howwwww

How would he ever think of raising his hands on his girlfriend?

We all rushed into Amaka's room to stop the madness.

Before I knew it, John had dragged him out of the house, throwing punches like a skilled street fighter. I never knew John could be that strong.

Na wa oh

“You dey mad?! You no see say she carry belle?......”he said as she threw punches at the nonsense guy “you no fear enter this compound ba?”

Amaka didn’t back down one bit. She picked up her mop stick and went for the guy like a possessed woman. I tried pulling her away but got pushed instead.

Omo, this people really get strength oh. See the way I hit nyash for ground.

It was wild. The guy left bleeding and limping, and the whole compound talked about it for days….. Mama Ekene was bouncing up and down in excitement. She has always hated the guy and even warned Amaka against him in the past.

I shook my head slightly, checking myself in the mirror one last time.

Eyebrows? Check

Lipstick? Check

Outfit? Clean and classy.

I grabbed my bag and stepped out, only to find my small shadow, Ekene, standing right in front of my door.

This boy!.

“Aunty Ruby, shey you go carry me go school today?”

I paused. “Eke boy, not today okay…”

Disappointment washed over his face so fast it almost made me change my mind.

I sighed. “No worry, tomorrow I go carry you, okay?”

He nodded, hopeful again. “Okay. But remember say my TPA na on Friday oh!”

I laughed. “You’ve told me before now. And it’s not TPA, it’s PTA”

“PT... PTA,” he repeated, tongue fumbling.

I gave him a thumbs up and walked out.

The Monday sun was already stretching out in full force.


💙💙💙💙

Work didn’t feel the same. Something about walking back into the building had my chest fluttering. Not from fear…… but from uncertainty, I guess.

The greetings came as expected. Smiles, hugs, and the usual chorus of “Welcome back!” from my colleagues. I smiled through all of it until I reached my office.

And paused.

There was someone in my space. A dark skinned, curvy, beautiful woman, arranging files like she'd owned that table since the company was founded

My heart skipped.

Has I been replaced?

How?, why?

I has spoken with Dave just yesterday and he didn't mentioned anything.

I cleared my throat. “Good morning”

She barely looked at me. “Morning” she replied, her eyes doing a full scan from my head to my shoes like she was measuring me for a fashion competition.

“Do you have an appointment?” she asked, straight-faced.

I blinked. “No… Yes. Sorry. I mean, can I see Richard …. Mr. Richard?”

Her lips curled. “Wahala. Richard…… Mr. Richard” she mimicked in a mock tone. “He’s not on seat yet. You can wait, or come back later”

I stared at her. “Do we have a problem, please?” Because honestly, what was this energy? What's it with women hating on their fellow woman for just no reason?

Before she could respond, the Edward brothers walked in.

The second they saw me, something changed.
Their faces broke into full smiles. They seemed different, from the way their eyes lit up, to the way they held and hugged me so closely.

“Juliet, my baby is back!” Richard said proudly, still holding my hand like we were starring in a romance movie.

My baby? Since when?

Before I could recover from that one, Dave jumped in.

“Oga abeg leave her hand jare” he teased, gently pulling my hand away from Richard’s hold.

They both laughed, the kind of laughter that said, We’ve missed you more than you know.
I blinked again.

Yeah, we got close over time, but this was new. Open. Warm in a way that caught me off guard. Especially in the office.

I turned slightly and caught Juliet, that’s what Richard called her, giving me a look that could roast yam. Her eyes were sharp. I wasn’t sure what her problem was, but one thing was clear, she wasn’t feeling my presence.

“Come on” Richard said, nudging me gently.

“We have something for you”

I followed them, curiosity bubbling inside me.

Whatever this surprise was, I hoped it didn’t involve Juliet again.

Because one thing I knew for sure?

There’s an angry wolf sitting on my seat.

Why?

The drama is just starting. Thanks for the update

This is getting interesting what game is uduak playing

Chapter 46

Uduak’s POV

"Emeka, I'm so scared" I said, my voice breaking between sobs.

"Scared? What happened?" he asked groggily over the phone. His raspy voice told me my call had pulled him straight out of sleep.

It was 10 p.m. and the rain poured like heaven was angry. Thunder rolled across the sky like war drums, and the entire house shook with each strike. I guess even nature feels my anger and bitterness.

"I don't even know..." I sniffed. "There's this man who's been disturbing me for a while now. Asking me out. I've been turning him down, but now he's angry. He's started insulting me. He even threatened to deal with me" My voice shook, "He just sent a message now. He says he's watching me…... I don’t know what to do, I’m so scared. I couldn’t call my dad. I didn’t want to stress him"

"What?!" Emeka’s voice rose with sudden urgency. “Who be that? Where him dey stay?!”

I smiled, such a fool.

"I don’t know" I whispered. "I just got the message now... I didn’t know who else to call"

“I’ll be at your place soon,” he said, already moving, before the line went dead.

I reached for my glass of wine on the bedside table and took a slow, satisfied sip.

He’ll come soon, rain or not. My knight in shining armor. The personal mumu I’ve been keeping at arm’s length with soft tears and unfinished forgiveness.

He's the one Sabinus refers to, whenever he shouts “you're a mumu man”.

He’s been following me like a fly, suddenly always around. I’ve let him beg and plead. Let him prove himself and show off his sorry guilt. But now, it’s time to shift the game.

Soon enough, I heard the car horn blaring through the storm.

I took another sip, set the glass down, and walked to my mirror. I rumpled my hair, dabbed some water on my eyes to mimic tears, then quietly told the gateman to open the gate.

Let the show begin.

He rushed in the second I opened the door, drenched and worried.

No umbrella, no jacket. Just a man on a mission.

He pulled me into his arms.

“Please stop crying, okay? I’m here now. Your husband is here”

Does he even know he sounds like a fool right now? I don't think he does, else he wouldn't open his gutter mouth and spill that self-acclaimed title. Ode.

But I leaned in and cried harder. This time, the tears were real, but not for the reason he’d like to think.

“I can’t stay here tonight" I said trembling. "He knows where I live. What if he comes?”

He hesitated for a moment, pulled back slightly.

Then he asked it. Like it wasn’t already the whole point of this movie I’m acting.

“Would... would you like to, you know…” He swallowed.

Spit it out now. What’s all this shyness for? Aren’t I the fool you always manipulated? Please don't waste my time jor.

“...Should I take you to my place?”

Of course, darling. That’s why you’re here! Damn it!

I hesitated, looking down, eyes glassy. “Your place?” I whispered. “I... I don’t know”

He cupped my cheeks gently. “You said the guy knows here. You’ll be safer at mine. That way you can rest... and I’ll take care of you. Just for tonight. I promise, nothing will happen to you. I’ll protect you”

Oshey. Protector of the universe.

For a second, his eyes made me pause. He looked... genuine.

But nah. This isn’t a love story.

“Alright” I sniffed, wiping my tears. Even the watery catarrh running down my nose added to the performance.

Don’t ask how I made that happen. I’m an actress now.

“I’ll just get some stuff” I said quietly, and turned to pack.

🦋🦋🦋🦋

We arrived at the place that should have been my home, but became the scene of my greatest humiliation.

“Where’s Grace?” I asked as I stepped inside.

“Oh. Grace” he said, pausing. “She left. Not long after you did”

I froze. She had been so kind to me. So patient.

“She was” he said, like he’d heard my thoughts. “She loved you”

I didn’t respond. Just kept looking around.

“The other staffs?” I inquired.

The air felt different. Distant. Like the house had forgotten me too.

“They left too, couldn't stand-” he paused abruptly, as if calculating his words “Please sit” he said instead.

I didn’t sit. I was still scanning the walls, the floor, the empty spaces where familiar things used to sit.

“Can I get something strong to drink?” I asked.

He nodded. “Sure. I’ll get something for us”

He went to the bar and picked a bottle of wine, pouring into two glasses with practiced ease.
Just as he reached for one, I tilted my head.

“Can I get some cookies too?”

He paused. Stared at me for a while. Does he suspect anything?

Then he smiled. That wide, warm, stupid smile.

“Of course. You always liked cookies with your wine” he said.

Mtcheeew…

“You haven’t changed” he said, still wearing that irritating smile.

I smiled back.

No, my love. I haven’t changed at all

Adeola25:
The drama is just starting. Thanks for the update

Happy Sunday ☺️☺️

Jozilinn:
This is getting interesting what game is uduak playing

I dunno 😊
Happy Sunday 😊

Happy Sunday everyone ❤️❤️

Ghost readers included☺️☺️

Life of a goal getter😭😭, I pity her husband

Chapter 47

Ruby's POV

I followed the Edward brothers to God-knows-where. I don't know why my chest feels like it is fighting to hold itself together.

Their silence isn't helping matters at all.

We stopped at a door on the first floor. My brows furrowed slightly, and I turned to Dave, who looked at me with a ghost-of-a-smile.
“Open it” he said gently, voice laced with anticipation.

With hesitant hands, I gripped the handle, uncertain of what I was about to walk into.

The door creaked open and………… My breath caught.

For a moment, I couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe, couldn’t blink. I couldn't do anything, I just stood there with my heart thundering in my chest.

Inside was a beautifully decorated office space. Gold-and-black balloons floated gently near the ceiling. A floral arrangement sat gracefully on the wide desk.

And there it was, a bold and breathtaking WELCOME, L.M.

LM?

Like Line Manager?

I swallowed hard.

“You like?” Richard’s voice cut through the air as he strolled past me like a satisfied peacock, sank into one of the leather chairs, popped open a bottle of champagne, and poured himself a drink like this was all routine.

Dave chuckled softly, stepping in behind me.
“We thought it was time you had your own space” he said, his eyes warm, proud… sincere.

And me?

I just stood there. Frozen.

I've just been promoted. Likeeeeee, oh my God.

Tears blurred my vision before I could fight them off. My hand rose instinctively to wipe them away.

“Oh? Are those tears I see?” Richard asked with exaggerated concern, then broke into loud, amused laughter.

I just stared at them with so much gratitude.

Dave chuckled too, walking toward me. “Oh, baby girl is shedding tears of joy” he said, wrapping his arms around me in a warm, grounding hug.

My lips trembled as I smiled faintly against Dave’s shoulder. No words came out of my lips. Just waves of emotion too powerful to tame.

After him, I went to Richard, who was still busy laughing.

“Oh my baby” he said, as he opened his arms to let me in.

~~~~

Uduak’s POV

Emeka's loud snores echoed in my ears as I tiptoed through the rooms, scanning every corner. I started from the obvious places….. the drawers, wardrobe, his bedside cabinet

Where did he keep it?

I opened the wardrobe again, pushed aside his old blazers and shirts, ran my fingers along the wooden panels. Still nothing.

Then it came to me like a revelation. The briefcase.

He never let that case out of his sight, but I haven’t seen it all evening. Something told me it wasn’t far.

I turned toward the kitchen.

Half-annoyed, half-determined, I searched through every cupboard, plates, seasoning. I even checked the fridge, don't laugh at me please.

And then, in the top cabinet, right behind a stack of paper towel…… I saw the handle.

"Kitchen of all places?" I scoffed under my breath, dragging it down.

He must’ve thought he was clever. Hiding things in plain sight.

Dumb jerk.

I placed the briefcase on the kitchen counter.
My fingers hovered over the code.

What would he use?

I tried his mother’s name. His birthday. Even the name of his stupid dog.

Nothing.

Then the name dropped into my mind like a thorn……. Scarlet.

Of course. The ex he kept alive even in our relationship. He used to speak about her like she was some goddess. Childhood love my foot, Mtcheeew

I punched in the letters.

S-C-A-R-L-E-T.

A sharp click followed.That's it!

Inside, everything was as I expected…… land documents, allocation papers, even the recent ones, all neat and intact. All his prized assets. Everything he ever owned and worked for.

I took a breath and began switching them out, sheet by sheet, sliding in the blank papers I had folded earlier. I made sure the weight felt the same, so he wouldn’t notice. Not yet.

When I was done, I shut and placed it right back where I saw it.

I stared at it one last time.

You're all mine.

I walked back into the bedroom, changed into the lace nightwear I came with, folded my clothes and slipped the real documents carefully into my bag. I zipped it slowly, and placed it beside the water dispenser.

Then I returned to the living room, where Emeka was still sleeping like a tired dog, snoring and clueless.

I sat on the couch beside him, curling to the edge, my back to his. The room was quiet, except for the rise and fall of his chest.

For once, I didn't feel uncertain. I felt ready.

And as I closed my eyes, a soft smile curled up my lips.

Woah where have you been. I have been waiting for your update.......thanks dear 😋

Uduak is playing a dirty game. Thanks for the update OP

Kontrol97:
Woah where have you been. I have been waiting for your update.......thanks dear 😋

😊Here's a bowl of popcorn for you 🍿🍿🍿

Adeola25:
Uduak is playing a dirty game. Thanks for the update OP

🍿🍿🍿🍿 For you too☺️

Chapter 48

Ruby's POV

It’s funny how a few days ago, I was just a secretary. But today? I sat with legs crossed in my office…… my own office, with a bold golden Line Manager tag winking at me from the desk.

Ohhhh Abasi!! Miracle, indeed nedey tire Jesus.

I twirled a pen between my fingers, as I reminisced over that evening of the surprise.

After the Edward brothers unveiled my office and teased me into an emotional moment, I had gone straight to the nearest restaurant. I was necessary I celebrate with my Agadaga family

I got a large quantity of Everyday’s special native rice, some plates of peppered chicken, some drinks, and rushed home, my heart thumping with excitement.

Trust my people now, they erupted with happiness on seeing my fully loaded hands

“Aunty Ruby don buy rice oh” Ekene’s voice had pierced through the noise, running around like the town crier that he is.

“Go lock that passage door!” Mama Ekene instructed our little town crier as she quickly brought out the benches and arranged them for everyone to seat.

Landlady started shouting "Praise the Lord oh!" as if I just landed a job at CBN. Even
Amaka forgot her usual sulking and danced around with her pregnant belly.

For a moment, I felt like a Ayra Star. My people celebrated me with genuine joy, not because of what they could get, but because they believed in me from the start.

That night, we stayed together eating, drinking, gisting and laughing…….

But reality, as usual, didn’t let me dwell too long in sweet memories.

My office door clicked open. Helen One.

She walked in with her usual overdone confidence and exaggerating makeup, hips swaying in tight corporate gown. She held a document lazily in one hand, her lips curved in a smirk…….. drama loading

“You’re wanted in Advertising” she said, dropping the report on my table like she was doing me a favor. Then, her eyes began scanning the room like she's here to confirm a rumour. The mix of envy and entitlement evident on her face

She chuckled to herself, resting one hip against my desk. “You must have shared your cookies for one of our bosses to get this kind of promotion and cozy office” She said, narrowing her eyes. “Obviously Dave. You’re nowhere close to Richard’s spec”

I'm not surprised…… I've been expecting this.

For a second, I said nothing. I just stared at her like she was a child that had mistakenly entered an adult conversation.

Then I smiled.

“I understand you got almost everything in your life by spreading your legs like a bedsheet, Helen, but not everyone is as shameless as you are”

She chuckled softly while I reached for the report, flipping through like she wasn’t even there.

“Shut the door after you leave” I added casually, eyes still on the document.

She didn’t move.

Her ego was trying to decide whether to throw a comeback or swallow my comment

“Just so you know…..” I trailed off, not bothering to look up.

“...... That bum bum enhancement cream you’re using, and those pills, they’re making you appear cheap and desperate. I’d suggest a BBL instead. You know, if you’re serious about the shit” I said then gave a carefree laugh

She turned sharply, heels clicking aggressively as she stormed out, slamming the door.

Yeah, as expected.

I leaned back in my chair, smiling to myself.

Indeed, joy comes in the morning


💙💙💙💙💙

Uduak’s POV

I sat by the window of my hotel room, legs folded beneath me, watching the sun rise. While other people loved watching rainfall, moonlight, or the stars…. I love watching the sun. I don't know why.

The documents sat neatly inside my handbag, zipped and untouched. I hadn’t dared to look at them again since last night. The weight of what I had done was still settling in me, not guilt, no. I was far past that. It was the calculated silence before a storm.

My phone buzzed on the bed.

I’m pretty sure it's Emeka calling. He's been calling me for over an hour now. I had left very early in the morning even before the drug would wear off.

I ignored it.

I can swear he hasn't noticed anything yet and that to me, is poetic justice

Seems he plans on draining my phone battery as he kept calling. Lazily, I picked up the call.

“My sweet baby” his drowsy voice boomed over speaker. “I want to hold you close”

With your stinking breath? God forbid

“I couldn't stay until you wake up…..”

“Why? my love?” He asked yearning loudly.

“I was shy….. after last night I just…. You know it's been long we....."

“Yeah I get…. It was so intense, my God. It felt like that was the first time I was holding you, kissing you or even make love to you. Oh my love, how did you become this sweet?”

I rolled my eyes in disdain.

“I don't know” I replied, maintaining my fake sweet, lovey voice.

"I want more of you Uduak….. I'll come pick you up tonight okay. Right now, I still feel very sleepy. I guess I'm still intoxicated by your sweetness”

I smiled faintly “Alright, I'm glad you enjoyed it. I have to go now” I said and immediately hung up the call.

Fool.

I got up, tied my robe, and walked toward the table. As I opened my makeup bag, my phone buzzed again.

This time, it was Senator Sunday.

I picked it up, knowing fully well this wasn’t a social call.

“Uduak, we need to talk. Urgently”

I smiled into the mirror. Urgency? That’s good.

“Of course, Senator” I began applying a lipstick on my lips. The lips Emeka almost bite off the previous night. “Your place or mine?”

"Mine”

"Your wish, is my command father”.

Chapter 49

Uduak's POV

The air was thick with tension the moment I stepped into Senator Sunday's compound. The usual calmness was absent today. His security boys paced around like agitated dogs.

Something was off.

I didn't wait to be announced. I walked in, attention isn't necessary right now

In the living room, Senator Sunday stood by the bar, glass in hand, staring out the wide window. He wasn’t drinking though, just holding the glass, obviously deep in thought.

The second he heard my steps, he turned sharply.

"Uduak” he said, his face filled with anger and frustration. His tie was loosened, his shirt partly unbuttoned…. a rare sight for a man who always prided himself on appearance.
“Good. You’re here. Sit down”

“I’d rather stand, Senator” I said warmly, tossing my handbag on the couch.

He slammed the glass on the table. “I need you to carry out a task with me. Tonight. You and my boys”

“What kind of task are we talking about? You know I’m not one of your errand girls”
He exhaled sharply, pacing like a lion in a cage.

“That bastard, Chief Umeh, has crossed the line. He’s been running his mouth, leaking sensitive information to the media. He thinks he can blackmail me, ruin my reputation, and go scotfrey” His fists clenched. “We’re going to pay him a little visit. You’ll be coming with us.”

I raised a brow. “As what, exactly? Backup? Or arm candy to distract him?”

His eyes flicked to me with a dangerous glint. “Both. You know how these things work, Uduak. A woman like you enters the room, walls come down, guards lower their guns. We get what we want faster”

Ah, This makes things easier for me.

“You do realize, Senator, that Chief Umeh isn’t a fool. He knows your tricks.” I folded my arms, leaning casually against the couch. “If he suspects even a little, you’ll have a dead body and a scandal on your hands”

He smirked, but it wasn’t pleasant. “That’s why you’re going in first. Alone. Sweet-talk him. Get him drunk, comfortable. My boys will handle the rest”

Interesting daddy….. interesting.

“Father, you’re asking me to walk into a snake pit with no backup except a handful of your ‘boys’ with itchy fingers. That’s dangerous, even for me”

He stepped closer, lowering his voice. “Dangerous, yes. But if this works, you’ll have leverage. Money, power, immunity. Do you want to remain a pawn, Uduak? Or do you want to own the board?”

I stared at him. This wasn’t a request. It was a test. He needed to see if I was still his puppet or if I was the Uduak that had plans of her own.

I smiled.

“Fine. I’ll do it. But when this is over, Senator, you’ll owe me more than a favor”

He chuckled darkly. “Uduak, when this is over, you’ll have more than you ever dreamed of”

“Alright”

His eyes sparkled with twisted admiration.

“That’s my girl. Briefing is in an hour. Dress sharp’

Of course, I will.

Sweet

ZaraIhua:
Chapter 49

Uduak's POV

The air was thick with tension the moment I stepped into Senator Sunday's compound. The usual calmness was absent today. His security boys paced around like agitated dogs.

Something was off.

I didn't wait to be announced. I walked in, attention isn't necessary right now

In the living room, Senator Sunday stood by the bar, glass in hand, staring out the wide window. He wasn’t drinking though, just holding the glass, obviously deep in thought.

The second he heard my steps, he turned sharply.

"Uduak” he said, his face filled with anger and frustration. His tie was loosened, his shirt partly unbuttoned…. a rare sight for a man who always prided himself on appearance.
“Good. You’re here. Sit down”

“I’d rather stand, Senator” I said warmly, tossing my handbag on the couch.

He slammed the glass on the table. “I need you to carry out a task with me. Tonight. You and my boys”

“What kind of task are we talking about? You know I’m not one of your errand girls”
He exhaled sharply, pacing like a lion in a cage.

“That bastard, Chief Umeh, has crossed the line. He’s been running his mouth, leaking sensitive information to the media. He thinks he can blackmail me, ruin my reputation, and go scotfrey” His fists clenched. “We’re going to pay him a little visit. You’ll be coming with us.”

I raised a brow. “As what, exactly? Backup? Or arm candy to distract him?”

His eyes flicked to me with a dangerous glint. “Both. You know how these things work, Uduak. A woman like you enters the room, walls come down, guards lower their guns. We get what we want faster”

Ah, This makes things easier for me.

“You do realize, Senator, that Chief Umeh isn’t a fool. He knows your tricks.” I folded my arms, leaning casually against the couch. “If he suspects even a little, you’ll have a dead body and a scandal on your hands”

He smirked, but it wasn’t pleasant. “That’s why you’re going in first. Alone. Sweet-talk him. Get him drunk, comfortable. My boys will handle the rest”

Interesting daddy….. interesting.

“Father, you’re asking me to walk into a snake pit with no backup except a handful of your ‘boys’ with itchy fingers. That’s dangerous, even for me”

He stepped closer, lowering his voice. “Dangerous, yes. But if this works, you’ll have leverage. Money, power, immunity. Do you want to remain a pawn, Uduak? Or do you want to own the board?”

I stared at him. This wasn’t a request. It was a test. He needed to see if I was still his puppet or if I was the Uduak that had plans of her own.

I smiled.

“Fine. I’ll do it. But when this is over, Senator, you’ll owe me more than a favor”

He chuckled darkly. “Uduak, when this is over, you’ll have more than you ever dreamed of”

“Alright”

His eyes sparkled with twisted admiration.

“That’s my girl. Briefing is in an hour. Dress sharp’

Of course, I will.

Chapter 50

Uduak’s POV

Chief Umeh’s penthouse screamed arrogance as usual.

I walked in slowly and comfortably like I owned the place. The hefty bodyguards stepped aside, bowing their heads a little

Chief Umeh sat on a massive leather recliner with legs crossed, and a cigar in his hand

“Uduak” his voice oozed smugness. “If I had known Senator Sunday would send you tonight, I would have worn my finest agbada”

I smiled sweetly, walking towards him with slow, deliberate grace. “He didn’t send me, Chief. I came on my own. You and I have unfinished business”

He raised a brow, intrigued. “Is that so?”

I reached him, bending slightly to kiss his cheek, my fingers brushing his shoulder as if dusting off imaginary dirt.

“I heard you’ve been making noise, Chief” I purred, sliding into the seat opposite him.
“That’s very unlike you”

He chuckled, taking a puff of his cigar.
"Sometimes, noise is necessary, my dear. Your Senator seems to think he’s untouchable. A little reminder won’t hurt”

I smiled.

The plan was simple: charm him, distract him, keep him seated and relaxed until Senator’s boys moved in for a clean snatch. But as I watched him, legs swinging like a spoilt child, I knew things wouldn’t go smoothly. Besides, I've got my own plan

“I wonder, Chief” I said, leaning forward slightly, “what do you gain from threatening a man like Senator Sunday? You should know better than anyone that he plays dirty”

His smile didn’t falter. “Maybe. But I have dirt that could bury him six feet deep. And if you’re here to change my mind, you’ll need more than pretty words, Uduak “

"Pretty words?” I repeated, getting up slowly. “Who said anything about words?”

I walked behind him, letting my fingers trail down his shoulder, pretending to admire the view through the glass wall.

But I caught the flicker, a reflection in the glass. The Senator’s boys, positioned outside, waiting for my signal.

“Chief” I said, turning back to him, “how about a drink? One last toast before we bury the past?”

He nodded lazily. “Go ahead. I trust you”.

I moved to the bar, got out a bottle of wine and poured into two glasses.

I made sure to be very close to the Chief. “You said you have dirt that could bury the Senator six feet?” I asked, almost in a whisper.

He searched my eyes for a while then nodded slowly.

“Alright……” I rubbed his head a little”..... His boys are outside, here to kill you. Why don't you finish them then go for him next, so next time he doesn't dare this rubbish again” I whispered.

Chief Umeh smirked, rolling his eyes to the side a little. “I see…. So much audacity he has” then he brought he face very close to mine.
“I've always known you are smart. Let's give them a show then”

Signalling one of his men, he whispered inaudibly.

Then he grabbed me by my hair and threw me to the floor, while I pretended to wince in pain.

He launched towards me again. Immediately I got out a gun and shot it twice in the air. That was the signal for the Senators boy to take action.

Just like that, gunshots roared as the room descended into madness.

Thanks for the update. Really enjoying the story

Hello dear

Hello @zaralhua... should we expect more episodes on this? It has been a while already... and we miss you. Very intriguing storyline

Sochee123:
Hello @zaralhua... should we expect more episodes on this? It has been a while already... and we miss you. Very intriguing storyline

The last time he came online is 1st of September, more than a month ago. I hope all is well with him though

Yeah..... It has really been a while 😊 and I miss you guys.

I left Ruby's world but somehow she kept whispering back to me. So here I am again. Ready to continue.

Thanks for your concern and comments💜💜.

Pls, I am a She😁, not a He

Chapter 51

I woke up to the smell of disinfectant and the sound of something beeping. My head felt heavy and my body weak.

Turning slowly, I saw Emeka sitting by the bed, eyes red and tired. While Senator was pacing the room.

“You’re awake” Emeka said softly and helped me sit up.

Senator stopped pacing, came closer and sat beside me. His face was blank but his jaw was tight.

“What happened?” I managed to ask.
He didn’t waste time. “My boys brought you back unconscious. You fainted at the sight of bloodshed”

The word bloodshed brought everything rushing back.

The sounds of gunshots, screams and the loud terrifying crash of the chandelier. I had known it would be messy, but not that messy.

Chief Umeh had dragged me close beside the bar, his hand in my hair. “So, this is your plan?” he spat, his breath hot and smelling of alcohol.

“You came here with men crawling everywhere and you think that’s a plan?”

I peeked from behind the counter, heart racing. “Not exactly,” I whispered.

I didn’t even know the Senator sent that many boys. I should’ve known better.

“You better get me out of here before I blow your head out!” He threatened, his grip on my hair tightening.

Something shiny on his chest caught my eye. It was a small flash drive hanging from his neck. He said he had something that could bury the Senator. Maybe that was it.

“Only if you tell me what you have against the Senator,” I whispered again, trying to sound weak. His grip on my hair getting tighter by every passing seconds.

He laughed, wickedly. “It’s in here” he said, tapping the flash drive. “Now get us out of here”

Perfect.

I did something stupid but smart. I yanked the flash drive off his neck, punched him hard between his legs and pushed myself away.

“Help!” I screamed.

The sound of gunshots had gone down, most of his men were already on the floor.

Immediately, Senator’s boys rushed in to cover me. While a few went after Chief who was trying to crawl away. One hit him hard with the butt of a gun, and he went down.

I walked slowly to where he was, crouched beside him and whispered, “You should’ve listened when I said he plays dirty”

He looked up, eyes burning. “You played dirtier, you disgusting snitch” he said between his teeth.

I smiled a little. “Maybe”

The leader of Senator’s boys looked at me for a while like he suspected something. “What was that about?” He asked, coldly.

“Nothing” I shrugged

Then shook his head and gave orders to take Chief away.

The place went quiet after they left, except for the sound of glass breaking under my shoes.

That’s when I saw something. A phone, lying close to one of the bodies. Chief’s phone I guess. I picked it up. The screen was cracked but still working. I scrolled through it and found voice recordings, messages, names. Probably everything he had on the Senator.

So he wasn’t lying after all. The old fool really had something. Then why did he say it was on the drive?

I looked around to see if anyone was watching. No one. Thank God.

Now here I am, lying in a hospital bed like nothing happened. Emeka still holding my hand, the Senator watching me with that face that hides more than it shows.

“You were lucky” he finally said.

I looked at him and managed a weak smile.
“No, I wasn’t lucky. I just didn’t die”

He chuckled dryly. “Same thing”

But it wasn’t the same thing, not at all. Because luck ends, plans don’t. And mine was just beginning.

I waited until they both stepped out, then I put my hands inside my underwear, where I had hide the phone and flashdrive. Thank God they're intact.


🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Ruby's POV

Even though the air conditioner was working perfectly, my palms were sweating profusely.

I had a visitor today, one I was happy to see but the words from her mouth made my happiness vanish into thin air.

“Give me a call when it’s done”

Those were her last words, her heels clicking away across the tiled floor as she left my office.

I scoffed in disbelief.

What the hell is really going on in my life? Just when I thought I’d finally found peace, something new comes up.

A gentle knock pulled my eyes away from the portrait I’d been staring at for too long now.
Richard strolled in casually, hands in his pockets.

“I’m hungry” he said, flopping onto the couch.
“Let’s go eat”

I stared at him.

My bond with him and his brother had grown stronger lately, and I was genuinely happy about that. But now, this new problem was sitting heavy on my chest.

“What?” he asked, sitting up suddenly. “Why are you staring at me like that? Don’t tell me you’re crushing on me”

Cocky, as always.

“You wish” I scoffed, shaking my head and trying to hide my confusion.

He laughed, loud and carefree. “Madam, abeg jor. I dey H,” he said, getting up.

“I’m not hungry” I replied softly, letting out a deep breath.

He looked at me like he was a doctor, examining a patient “Tell me, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing, I just… I don’t want to eat” I said, shrugging.

“You sure?” he asked again.

I nodded.

“Alright then. Suit yourself” he said, before walking out of my office.

The room felt too quiet once he left. I couldn’t work. I just sat there, lost in my thoughts, until I heard another knock about an hour later.

“Good day, ma,” a delivery guy greeted. Nah, not just any delivery guy. Actually, he's Richard’s special errand boy.

“Mr. Richard asked me to deliver this to you” he said, placing a fancy bag on my table.

I opened it and couldn’t help but smile. “Food and drinks,” I murmured.

“Yes, ma. Do have a nice day,” he said before leaving.

“You too”

I unpacked the items and found a small note tucked inside.

“ You shouldn’t go hungry, madam”

That was all he wrote.

I couldn’t help but laugh softly. Typical Richard.
Immediately, I pulled out my phone and texted him a quick thank you.