₦airaland Forum

TheBlessedMAN:
remain small boss. But it's dropping on my Facebook first. Then back here and that's if they no ban am

pleas drop the Facebook page link for us

@ Adigun Idowu. That's my Facebook name.

Below is the profile picture.

E don tay wae I open my Facebook page, I go wait for you here.

Secondly, I get many ignored messages on Facebook, I believe you sabi the drill ba😁😁😁

Thirdly, once there sight person online pere, person don activate the norms for others 😁😁

Boss this constantly freshing of page self don tire person ooo

I go report you give the gods of thunder ooo

You no wan deliver your polling unit ni😁😁

Damilgodwin:
Boss this constantly freshing of page self don tire person ooo

I go report you give the gods of thunder ooo

You no wan deliver your polling unit ni😁😁

no vex boss. Remain shinkini

EPISODE 23 — Thin Lines

If there’s ever a word to describe how I felt when Toyosi swapped that drink with Kenny, it would be panic—the kind that starts small in your chest and then spreads till your whole body feels hot and cold at the same time. You know that kind of tension that grips your whole soul when you’re holding a calculator like it’s a weapon, doing complex group stage mathematics—“if Ghana draws, and Egypt scores one in extra time, and the referee sneezes at the right minute, also running a background check on the goalkeeper to see if he hasn’t chopped any recent breakfast — maybe, just maybe, we can still qualify.
And you’re there asking yourself, why do these Super Eagles always wait till fans develop high blood pressure before they start playing like Barcelona?

Abeg, after surviving all the heartbreaks, postponed miracles, and last-minute goal disallowances from Super Eagles, I refuse to die because of Toyosi. She can try, but she’s not stronger than Nigeria’s football stress.

Then as I was still battling with thoughts in my mind, Toyosi reached for the wine bottle and poured herself another round like nothing had happened. Tiffany followed, though she barely filled her own glass, her face was calm but her eyes was back to her phone in no time.

Then we all sat down. I tried to smile, to keep things normal, but my mind wasn’t there anymore. My eyes still stayed on Toyosi, my heartbeat jumping between anger and fear.
I kept wondering why she was so obsessed with that cup. What if it had been poison instead of sleeping pills? What would’ve happened to her then? She would have Jesus-Christed herself for Kenny’s sake.

In simpler, un-biblical terms, she would’ve sacrificed her own life for Kenny. And for what exactly? For a useless infatuation over cups?

I tried to steady my breath.
"Calm down, Darous." I told myself. "Just stay calm and think." But no matter how I tried, my hands wouldn’t stop shaking.

A few minutes later, Toyosi began dozing off slowly on the couch.
I knew the pills well—take more than one and you'll be out cold in minutes.

I moved closer to where Toyosi was sitting, with a voice barely above a whisper.
“Toyosi,” I said softly. “You really messed up. That drink wasn’t meant for you. You this girl… what if it was poison I put inside it? Just what if?”

I muttered it under my breath. She could hardly hear me.
But her eyelids fluttered—slow and heavy.
Her voice came faint, like a bad radio signal.
“Tell that stubborn girl… to give her uncle the ledger… or she might regret it.”

My eyes widened. “What did you just say?”

She didn't reply.
Her head had already slumped on my shoulder, soft and warm.

She sighed—a strange sound, peaceful yet dangerous. Her body felt warm against mine. My eyes dropped, just for a second, to the rise and fall of her chest, the way her breasts moved with each slow breath. For a few seconds, I couldn’t look away before I quickly caught myself and turned aside before Tiffany caught me staring at her friend’s breast.

I glanced at Tiffany. She was still glued to her phone, smiling like someone who just finished dragging a Big Brother Naija fan on Tiktok.
I exhaled slowly. Thank God she didn’t see me.

Then my phone buzzed.
WhatsApp notification. Chuka.

Chuka: “You’ve left the hospital. That means you’re fine now. From Monday, new mission for you. This one can either make you or break you. Depends on how you play it.”

I read it twice and hissed in a low sound.
Who told these people that leaving the hospital automatically means one is fit for whatever nonsense mission they planned? I cursed under my breath.

What kind of mission again? And what did he mean by “make or break me”?

I dropped the phone on the center table, sighed, and looked up—
A dark figure stood in front of me.

It was Kenny. I didn’t even notice when he got up, but there he was—stretching his arms, yawning like someone who hadn’t slept in a week.

“I need to take a bath,” he said quietly.

“Please do,” Tiffany replied, still scrolling her phone. “Maybe it’ll wash off that tired look.”
Then she glanced at me. “Darous, why does Toyosi suddenly look like your baby?”

“She’s dozing off,” I said. “I don’t want her falling off the cushion, so I’ll carry her to her room.”

Tiffany raised an eyebrow. “Of course you will. Our Mr Gentleman. Always rescuing damsels in distress.”

"Babe, don't tell me you are jealous." I returned the eyebrow gesture with an Ancelotti one.

She shook her head, laughing. “Just make sure she doesn’t wake up tomorrow calling you ‘Daddy Darous.’ ”

“Na you sabi,” I said, smiling. “Call it temporary bouncer duty.”

She chuckled. “Okay ooo, Mr Bouncer. Carry your madam.”

I ignored her teasing and lifted Toyosi gently into my arms. Tiffany walked ahead, leading the way.
Even with my bandaged hand, I held her steady. Somehow, she felt like my responsibility in that moment. But my eyes still betrayed me—slipping down to the open neckline of her dress, to the soft rise and fall of her moderately sized breast. I couldn’t help comparing their breasts at that moment, trying to see who had the bigger one and who had the smaller. But honestly, they looked almost the same size to me.

Toyosi’s room was calm and minimalistic. Moonlight poured through the window, spreading over the white sheets and gray walls. Paintings hung neatly, a fluffy rug cushioned our steps.

I laid her on the bed carefully and tucked her in. She murmured, turned, and sank into the pillow.

Tiffany leaned on the doorframe, grinning.
“Look at you, Mr Hero. Carrying sleeping beauties to bed now? Should I fetch your cape—or you’ll sing her a lullaby first before addressing the nation?”

I gave her a look. “ For someone this beautiful, you talk too much.”

She giggled. “Mr Bouncer, sing her something, joor.”

I ignored her and adjusted the duvet. That’s when Toyosi’s hand suddenly shot up, grabbed my collar—and before I could blink, her lips brushed mine.
It was soft and quick.
“I love you, CK,” she murmured, then drifted back to sleep.

I froze. My heart hammered hard.
When I turned, Tiffany was watching me—phone still in her hand with a smirk on her face. She obviously saw the kiss but didn't hear the words.

“Why do you look like that’s the first time a drunk person kissed you?” she asked with a smile.

I opened my mouth, closed it, opened again—nothing came out.

She stepped closer, eyes fixed on my lips.
“Let me show this drunken child how it’s done properly,” she whispered—and kissed me.

This one wasn’t soft. It was deep, hungry, teasing. My knees nearly gave way. My dick was already warming up inside my trousers.

Then she suddenly pulled back as my hand slid to her breast through her dress.
“Hmm..hmm..easy, tiger. You’re not fully healed yet, remember?” she teased.

“I’m covered by the blood of Jesus, so I’m fine,” I said, half joking, half begging, trying to convince her to continue. For days now, this girl has been nothing but a sweet, deliberate cock-teaser. Apart from that one night of oral madness at Mrs. Adeoye’s house, I haven’t gone anywhere near the inside of her pants since then. We’ll start something, and just when the tempo starts rising, she’ll pull back and say, “You need to be fully healed first… I want our first time to be magical.”
Magical my foot. At this point, I was beginning to suspect she was sent from the pit of temptation itself.

"Tiff, I'm healed I swear in the name of the god of thunder, I'm fine now. Nothing do my body..."

She smirked. “How do I know? I don’t want to be the reason you go back to the hospital, Mr Man. We still have enough time to make up for this long wait once you are fully healed...I promise.”

“You still don't believe I'm fine abi,” I said again, smiling faintly. “ Well, there’s only one way to find out.”

She laughed softly. “Not tonight, bobo. You know our first time—”

“Must be magical,” I cut in.

“Exactly.” She gave a playful salute. “Now be a good boy and go to your room.”

She kissed me lightly again and walked out, her hips swaying like she knew exactly the damage she’d done.
My dick was as hard as the Nigerian economy used to be in the early days of President Tinubu’s administration.

I looked at Toyosi again—deep asleep. I sighed, shut the door, and locked it from outside, slipping the key into my pocket. First part is done.
Kenny may have escaped my first trap, but he won’t escape the next one. Tonight, he’s not leaving that guest room till morning. I’ll lock him inside and go sleep in Tiffany’s room. The only problem now is how to get into that cock-teaser’s room. That girl can be stubborn for Africa. Her stubbornness was clearly imported straight from Pharaoh himself.

When I pushed open the guest-room door, Kenny was sitting on the bed, towel around his waist, phone in hand. He looked up.

“I need to talk to you,” I said quietly.

He nodded. “Even me sef. I wan tell you something important.”

“Okay…you first. What’s it about?” I asked, folding my arms.

He took a deep breath and dropped his phone beside him.
“Darous, I know you still don’t fully trust me,” he began, calm but heavy. “And I also know you put something inside my drink earlier.”

I wanted to deny it, but I quickly figured there's no point? So I waved it off.
“Yeah, I did. But it wasn’t to hurt you. It was for the girls’ safety. I still don’t know what’s going on in your head, so I’d be stupid not to take precautions.”
I paused, trying to steady my breathing. “I saw you silence a call earlier, Kenny. That’s why I acted. And for the record, it was just a sleeping pill. Nothing more.”

He stayed quiet for some seconds. The silence felt thick.

“I understand,” he said finally. “But for you to know that I’m truly a changed man, I need to tell you something. Something important.”

“Go ahead,” I said, bracing myself. The last thing I needed was another mess added to my list. I still don't know what the Circle has in store for me on Monday.

Kenny sat up straighter, his face now very serious.
“Darous,” he said quietly. “Please guy, no vex...no vex, but I lied to you earlier. I didn’t have any accident that night.”

My arms dropped. “What do you mean you lied?”

He rubbed his head, like someone feeling ashamed. “I was arrested, bro. That same night.”

I blinked. “Arrested? By who? What did you do again? Did you kill Cynthia?”

He looked up, tired. “Nooo. I told you I didn’t get her. That part is true. But a detective saved me that night—Saipon and Cobra were about to finish me if not for that man.”

"You mean the same Saipon and Cobra that followed you to beat me to stupor? They turned on you?" I said those words and didn't know if I should laugh or be angry.

"Yes. Yes..the people that picked Cynthia gave them the order to kill me right there but that Detective, saved me..."

A chill ran through me when he mentioned the word 'detective' again. The only detective I know is Detective Kalu, so. I prayed he's not the one. “Wait… what’s the detective’s name?”

“Erm… Detective Kalu or something.”

My heartbeat jumped. “Detective Kalu?...”

He nodded. “Yes. He was waiting for Cynthia that night, not me. He somehow knew something was going down. He picked me up and took me to the station. I’ve been in a cell since then.”

I stepped back, shocked. “You’ve been locked up for a week? But you said you were home resting!”

“I know,” he said quickly. “But listen, I didn’t have a choice.”

There was a brief silence before I spoke again.
“So how did you get out?”

He sighed. “The detective offered me a deal. Said he’d release me if I helped him.”

I narrowed my eyes. “Help him do what exactly?”

He hesitated. “To study you. Watch your moves… and everything about the organisation you work for.”

My whole body went cold.
I didn’t move. Just staring at him.

He continued quietly, “He said you’re working for something bigger than you understand. That they control you. He wanted me to get proof—to help him catch all of you.”

My mind flashed back to the hospital— summary of Detective Kalu’s words echoing in my mind:
‘I know who you are, Darous. I know what you do. I know the people that own you.’
I’d waved it off back then as one of his usual mind games. But now… everything suddenly made sense.
He’d been watching me long before that day.
Anger didn’t even knock — it ordered Uber straight to my chest and landed right in my fist. I felt betrayed instantly.

“So beating me up wasn’t enough,” I muttered bitterly, “now you want to—”
“Darous, please,” Kenny cut in. “I’m not proud of it. That’s why I’m confessing. I couldn’t keep lying to you. I need your forgiveness.”

He stood slowly, towel still tied. “I know how much you’ve suffered. I swear I never meant to betray you. The torture in that cell… the beatings… I just broke. I thought helping him was the only way out.”

I didn’t speak. My head was spinning.

He went on, voice trembling. “I see the way those girls trust you. The way they love you. I envy that. I want to be better. I want to fix my life. Especially because of Baba T. I can’t forgive myself for how I handled his death. Maybe this is how I start to atone for my sins.”

I weighed his words carefully for a brief moment and decide to not make hasty decisions until I get the full picture of what's really at play here.

“Tell me exactly what he wants from me." I finally spoke. " What does he know?”

Kenny swallowed. “He knows you work for a big organisation. That they control everything you do. He didn’t say how much he knows, but he sounded very sure.”

The air turned heavy. Even the walls felt like they were listening.

“How exactly did he want you to spy on me?” I asked.

“He said he’s been on that organisation's case for over ten years.”

“Ten years?” I frowned. “That’s deep.”

“Yeah,” he said. “He told me they mostly use WhatsApp coded links for operations.”

I scoffed. “WhatsApp? Really?”

“I’m just saying what he said. He told me to watch you closely—especially when you’re on your phone.”

“Watch me…”

He nodded slowly. “And if I notice anything strange, I should report.”

I chuckled bitterly. “Wow. That's deep.”

“He just wants me to find out the person who messages you for that job stuff. Like the intermediary between you and that organisation.”

“So basically, he wants you to sell me out,” I said flatly.

Kenny bit his lip, then looked away. “It’s not like that. I just… I don’t even know what to do anymore.”

"Hmmmm...." I sighed deeply. Worry and anxiety taking a vip seat in my body right there.

“Wait first,” I said. “How are you even sure I work for any organization?”

He gave me that suspicious look, then let out a small scoff.
“Guy, abeg, I know you. All those secret codes you and Jude used to drop at the bar—who una dey deceive? And that our girl... what’s her name again... hmm... Bola, abi?”

" Bola?" I squinted.

" Yes...Bola...I know she changed your life. She carry you enter that gang. Abeg, no need to pretend.”

He said it with so much confidence. There was no need to argue. I just stood there quietly.

I smiled faintly. “So why tell me now? What changed?”
Kenny looked at me for a long while before speaking. His voice dropped low, like he was afraid the walls could hear him.

“Darous, you know who they call Agama abi?”

I frowned. “Who doesn’t know Agama?"

That Agama is bad news. Every building contractor in Lagos knows his name. He used to raid construction sites, collecting illegal levies like some self-appointed king of the streets. A dangerous man through and through. They said he earned the name “Agama” as a kid because he was obsessed with hunting lizards—he’d never see one on the wall without picking up a stone to strike it.

"The same Agama of Lagos?" I added.

Kenny nodded slowly.
“Saipon and Cobra, they’re his boys.”

"Okay... I know , but what exactly are you driving at?”

“Three years ago, my little boy fell sick,” Kenny said, voice shaky. “My baby mama was calling me every minute. The hospital needed about five hundred thousand naira for treatment. I didn’t have it, Darous. You know how things were for me that time.”
He paused, rubbing his hands together like he was washing away guilt that refused to leave.

“I tried all the loan apps, but you know na, I dey owe more than fourty apps gbese wey I never pay. My BVN no fit borrow money for pure water sef. So I now went to Agama for help. I used all my aluminium fabricator machines as collateral. I thought I'll be able to pay back quick, but things got worse. I couldn’t meet up, and Agama came and carried everything—machines worth more than three hundred thousand naira.”

I stared at him. “Wait… that time? When you said you were robbed? You didn’t tell us you collected money from Agama.”

Kenny sighed. “I couldn’t, Darous. I knew you’d never support it. You’d have dragged me away from the deal. But after Agama took the machines, he added another five hundred thousand naira as interest. That’s how the debt grew.”

He leaned back, eyes cloudy with regret.
“Baba T was the only one who knew. He’s been helping me pay it small small, from whatever he could save. But now that he’s gone, everything fell back on me. Agama’s boys—Saipon and Cobra—came for me that night that Baba T died. They said I must complete the payment or pay with my blood.”

I swallowed hard, watching his face darken.

“That’s why they were after Cynthia that night,”

"What does Cynthia got to do with this?" I said, feeling confused.

Continuation of Episode 23.


He sat back on the bed and continued. “I lied to them that she robbed Baba T and ran away with the money meant for the debt clearance. I thought once they catch her, I’d find a way to settle it. But it all went wrong.”

"Hmmmm. So you sold Cynthia to them...well played..Continue...."

He looked down, voice cracking slightly.
“That night, when your people came to pick Cynthia, I realized something. Saipon and Cobra bowed when they saw your men step down from that Jeep. They even ordered Saipon and Cobra to make sure I don't leave that place alive—until Detective Kalu stepped in and saved me.”

"Really?....he saved you...."

He gave a short, bitter sigh.
“The detective promised to help me get revenge on you and also protect me if I help him bring your organisation down. But I don’t trust him. I don't know what he'll do to me once he's done using me. That’s why I'm coming clean with you. If anyone can stop Agama and his boys with one word, it’s you.”

He paused, voice dropping. “That’s why Baba T’s death pain me. The man tried for me when I had nothing. And I remember you that time too—you were just like me. But look at you now. You even rent G-Wagon of four hundred K for one day. Guy, I no go lie, I envy you small. This life don tire me.”

I sat beside him on the bed and thought about everything he said. His voice sounded honest, and that made me stop to really think.
For a moment, I wanted to tell Chuka about it so he could handle the situation, but then I changed my mind. I don’t know what they might do to Kenny.
If what he said about Saipon and Cobra is true, then it's possible the Circle wants him dead.
So it’s better I don’t tell him yet. I’ll handle this myself.

Then a brilliant idea from the ministry of thunder and lightning affairs popped into my mind. This might actually be a good thing. If the detective wants to play dirty, then we can both play this game.

Gently, I placed a hand on Kenny’s shoulder and told him he was forgiven. This was a new beginning — a chance to start over.
“Now listen,” I said. “If you really want me to trust you enough to bring you into what I do, you’ll have to prove yourself beyond every doubt. There are a few things you’ll need to do for me first.”

He smiled when he heard that, and we ended it with a warm embrace.
But deep down, I knew this wasn’t victory — this was that stage where the Super Eagles win their last match, and fans start bringing out calculators, checking “if Ghana draws and South Africa loses first half,” before we can qualify. That kind of dangerous hope that looks like peace but smells like problem.

To be continued. For faster updates, go to my Facebook account. @Adigun Idowu

Haaaa, which one is for fast update 😁😁

Baba you don dae carry us under 4.5 oo,

Abi you be affiliated personnel ni, 😁

Your writings are heavenly

Your words arrangement are superior to ph.d owns

I just pray that Darous and Kenny combo no go spoil things 🤗🤗

Great update, as usual. Eagerly anticipating the next. Keep it up @theblessedman

Damilgodwin:
Your writings are heavenly

Your words arrangement are superior to ph.d owns

I just pray that Darous and Kenny combo no go spoil things 🤗🤗

see hyper flattering oooooo😂😂😂😂😂

Damilgodwin:
Haaaa, which one is for fast update 😁😁

Baba you don dae carry us under 4.5 oo,

Abi you be affiliated personnel ni, 😁

if you understand how frustrating it feels , after spending hours and days writing, but you still pray you don't get banned for posting for free on this platform, you'll know why I've decided to be posting on FB first. This Nairaland is not encouraging at all ahswear

Ohibenemma:
Great update, as usual. Eagerly anticipating the next. Keep it up @theblessedman

thanks brother man

TheBlessedMAN:
if you understand how frustrating it feels , after spending hours and days writing, but you still pray you don't get banned for posting for free on this platform, you'll know why I've decided to be posting on FB first. This Nairaland is not encouraging at all ahswear

No be lie,even as a reader it's tiring 😂,I feel your pain TBM and like other writers on Nairaland, you'll notice the silence on literature section in recent times😕the site is really not encouraging the writers at all 😤
Back to the story my buroda😳😳😳😳things dey happen ooo🤔so right now,it seems toyosi is been used by Tiffany's uncle to get the ledger,and "CK" might be "Chucks" too,the Toyosi gal go be one big 🐍 snake as I dey feel am so🤔
Though I like the way Kenny opened up and I believe that will be good for Darous,cos he needs a trusted friend and since Jude don bail,in fact Darous life look like "peace but smells like trouble"🤣🤣🤣 and I hope detective Kalu don't go too hard on both Kenny and Darous,cos that man na real werey😂
Thanks TBM, though it seems to brief oo,but it's better than nothing after the long wait,Weldon bro,more grace🤗💯🍺

TheBlessedMAN:
if you understand how frustrating it feels , after spending hours and days writing, but you still pray you don't get banned for posting for free on this platform, you'll know why I've decided to be posting on FB first. This Nairaland is not encouraging at all ahswear

Omo boss mi, sorry oo if my words brought out that hidden emotions wae you don already dae hide since the day Barcelona lose 4-1😭😭

No worries because of you I go enter Facebook word again, T- thanks

Episode 24 - Game On.


The sky looked heavy, like it might open any minute. Traders scrambled, lifting boxes, folding tarps, and tugging their goods to safer spots. Market women shouted to one another, hands moving quick, faces worried — a single downpour could wash away a day’s work. Old men watched from doorways and shook their heads, saying this is how life always is: one storm after another, everyone trying to hold on.

Kalu’s office on the other hand was quiet.
The ceiling fan turned slowly, making that tired creaking sound like an old gate that needs oil.

His desk looked like a crime scene — files everywhere, cracked mugs, and one pen that had bled out on his notepad.

Kalu was leaning back in his chair, half-asleep, when his phone buzzed.

Unknown number. Encrypted line.

He frowned.
He knew this kind of call — the kind that tightens your chest before you even say hello. But Kalu had been in the game too long for fear to shake him now. Calls like this stopped scaring him a long time ago. This wasn’t his first.

He picked up.
“Detective Kalu speaking.”

There was silence at the other end for a brief seconds.
Then a voice came through — deep, slow, and twisted like it was coming from a radio underwater.

“So… you’re still chasing shadows, Detective.”

Kalu sat up straight. “Who is this?”

The voice scoffed.

“For a long time, you’ve been poking your nose into places it doesn’t belong — places that swallow men whole.”

Kalu’s jaw hardened. “If I was afraid of being swallowed, I wouldn’t have joined the Nigerian Police Force. Now, say your name… or get the hell off my line.”

The voice laughed — dry, cold and empty.

“You’re bold. I’ll give you that. But even bold men have soft spots. Weakness. Something… or someone.”

Kalu didn’t move. His grip on the phone stayed firm.

The voice continued.
“We don’t know yours yet. But we will. We’ll find it. We’ll dig through every layer of your life. Every file. Every shadow. Every whisper. And when we find it… we’ll press where it hurts.”

The fan above groaned again, like it was tired of hearing bad news.

Kalu spoke slowly.
“You think threats will stop me? I’ve buried men who thought they were gods.”

“Detective, this isn’t a threat,” the voice said. “It’s a mission. You keep digging, we’ll dig too. And we won’t stop until we find what keeps you breathing.”

Click.
The line went dead.

Kalu sat still, phone in hand.
His pulse was loud in his ears.
Fear didn’t rush in — it crept, like a shadow crawling up his spine.

He leaned forward and muttered under his breath,
“Damn it, Kalu… these people…”
Then, with a sharp burst of frustration, he slammed his fist on the table. The pen beside him rattled and rolled to the floor.

But even with the fear, something else rose inside him — anger.
The same fire that had kept him alive this long.

*******

The following morning, I woke up to Tiffany’s knock on the door.
Kenny was still lying flat on the bed like a dead man on free Wi-Fi.

I dragged myself up, opened the door… and there she was — Tiffany — standing in nothing but a white armless gown so thin it could pass for tissue paper. Her nipples were literally staging a military coup through the fabric.

For a brief second, I just stood there staring like a man who suddenly saw his destiny in HD. My eyes didn’t move. My brain didn’t either.
"This cock-teaser again...." I murmured to myself.

Then she smiled, stepped in and gave me a soft hug with a small peck on the cheek — the kind of peck that doesn’t mean anything but still rearranges your blood circulation. Let's call it a therapeutic hug. The smell of her hair invaded the territory of my nostrils and took my brain hostage for that brief moment.

“How was your night?” she asked with a dick-provoking smile.

Before I could even answer, my stubborn dick had already risen to the occasion — literally — pressing against her crotch while we were still in the hug.

She pulled back slightly, looked down, then back up with that mischievous smile of hers.
“This thing no get respect at all,” she said.

I smiled back. “Respect died the moment you wore that gown,” I replied.

She rolled her eyes and laughed, then suddenly changed the topic.
“By the way, where’s the key to Toyosi’s room? I got to her door and it’s locked.”

“The key?” I asked, patting my shorts. “It’s in my pocket.”

She raised a brow. “Oh really? Since when did you become her father? Are you grounding her now for drinking too much wine last night?”

I frowned a little. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

She smirked. “It means you like acting responsible when no one asked you to. Just give me the key.”

I sighed and pulled it out of my pocket. “Fine, here. Happy now?”

“Very,” she said, snatching it from my hand.

I followed her straight to Toyosi’s door. I unlocked it, and there she was — sleeping so deeply you’d think she was getting paid by the hour.
Tiffany’s eyes went wide. “Is she breathing?”

She touched her. Toyosi gave a small snore. Tiffany exhaled loudly then leaned closer, whispering, “Wow… this one is really committed to her sleep.”

I smiled. “Yeah, she’s probably competing for the world record.”

We both chuckled and headed for the kitchen. She started making me a cup of juice in her usual morning style.

Then I leaned on the counter and said, “Babe, I need your help.”

She squinted at me, suspicion already written all over her face.
“You again? What’s it this time?”

I didn’t answer. I just looked at her — a long, silent, serious kind of look that made her shift a little, like the room had suddenly gotten too warm.

Her voice softened. “Okay… what is it, babe? Talk to me.”

I took a slow breath, eyes still locked on hers. “Promise me you’ll do it first.”

She frowned slightly. “Do what?”

“Just promise,” I said quietly.

Her expression changed — a mix of curiosity and worry. “You’re scaring me now,” she whispered. “What are you planning again?”

“Relax babe. It's not something you can't do...." I said with an assuring look.

" Okay...go on..."

" Babe, I just want Baba T’s burial tomorrow to enter history. I’m talking premium casket, pall bearers with choreography, maybe even smoke machines if budget allows.”

She froze. “You dey whine me? What do you think Toyosi and I had been planning since?”

I grinned. “Seriously. The man deserves a proper sendoff. I don't want people to say we buried him like a sachet of pure water.”

She sighed dramatically. “Sure, but you know Toyosi and I are already making plans to make it big. But how much nonsense are we talking about?”

I smiled that smile she hates but secretly loves. “Not much. Just enough to make Queen Elizabeth jealous.”

“Fine. I'll handle it. I promise.....”

I kissed her on the forehead. "Thank you, I promise Shango will be so glad to have you as a daughter in-law...you are the best thing to ever happen to our family..."

She laughed lightly. “See this man. You and your mysterious way of thinking. Every time, you sound like a cult leader recruiting me.”

“Maybe I am,” I said “But this one’s for a good cause.”

She rolled her eyes but handed me the cup of juice she had just made. “Here. Drink before your mouth dries up from suspense.”

I took a sip — cold, sweet, and perfectly balanced. “You know, if you weren’t so good at causing trouble, you’d make a great bartender.”

She smirked. “Trouble pays better.”

We both laughed.

Then she leaned a little closer, her voice dropping just enough to make my heart misbehave.
“Okay, Mr. Man…it's time we have our first magical sex but that will be after tomorrow.”

“After the burial?” I asked.

She smiled, that playful look on her face. “Yes. Once Baba T rests in peace and we’re sure he’s sitting on God’s right hand—”

“Ahn ahn, what kind of condition is that? How are we supposed to confirm that?” I asked.

“That’s where your father comes in—your god of thunder. Let him check for us,” she said with a straight face.

“You’re lucky I like you. If not, I’d have told thunder to fire that your mouth right now,” I said.

Tiffany smiled wider. “Fire my mouth? Go ahead. Just make sure your thunder has health insurance.”

"You are not serious at all." I said and delivered a playful spank on her soft and nicely shaped bum bum. She laughed and asked me to do it again. I repeated it but slightly harder this time.

"Hmmm. That's better..." She said. "So, tomorrow, we finally cut our cake.”

I raised an Ancelotti kind of brow. “Cake?”

She bit her lip. “You know exactly what I mean. Don’t play innocent.”

I grinned. “Ah, so we’re finally cutting that cake.”

“Cutting?” she laughed. “No, darling. We’re serving it hot. I’ve waited too long, and if we survive that burial tomorrow, I’m not waiting another night.”

I whistled softly. “You sound like a woman on a mission.”

She smiled, brushing past me slowly. “Call it divine motivation.”

I watched her walk away, hips doing a sermon of their own, and muttered,
“God, if this is temptation… I’m already a willing sinner.”

She turned her head, smirking. “Then pray for strength, Mr Man. Tomorrow, you’ll need it.”

I dropped a deep sigh. My plan is finally setting in. Phase one is done and dusted.

***

Kenny paced by the window, sweating like a cold bottle of water and biting his nails like groundnuts. I sat on the edge of the bed, phone in hand, staring at the screen for a moment before calling Chuka.

He picked up almost immediately.
“Why are you calling me? Can’t you just text like a normal human being?”

I sighed. “This one no be text matter.”

There was a pause, then a lazy, “Okay. Shoot.”

I glanced at Kenny— then spoke quietly.
“It’s Agama. The guy’s been on my neck for a long time."

" Who is this Agama, am I supposed to know him?" Chuka asked.

" He's one thug in our neighbourhood. Use to collect money and everything with force. "

"Okay...go on."

"I owe him seven hundred K… since three years ago. Now he’s threatening to make life miserable for me. I just want him to understand that I don’t answer to threats anymore — not when I have a whole empire behind me. I can’t pay him. And I won’t.”

The line went silent for a moment. Then came a small, knowing chuckle from Chuka’s end.

“Good,” he said finally. “Now you’re thinking like one of us.”

I frowned. “Meaning?”

“Meaning you don’t need to pay him a single kobo after threatening you,” he said calmly. “Just listen carefully — whoever this Agama is, if he lives in this Lagos, he’s already heard a name that shakes the ground.”

I leaned forward. “Which name?”

“CK Mania.”

I repeated it under my breath. “CK… Mania?”

“Yes,” Chuka replied, voice low and sharp. “When you see him, just say that name. Don’t explain, don’t argue. Just drop it and walk away. He’ll get the message.”

“CK Mania?” I said again, still confused. “Who the hell is that?”

“Na your papa. Always asking foolish questions...Get out of my phone jor werey. ”

Then the line clicked.

Kenny turned to me, eyes wide. “So… what did he say?”

I pocketed the phone slowly, smirking.
“He said we don’t need to pay.”

Kenny blinked. “Ah! Just like that?”

“Yeah,” I said, standing up. “We just have to mention a name.”

Kenny frowned. “Which name?”

I smiled. “You'll know once we get there let's go.”

He stared at me, confused. “I trust you sha.”

I shrugged as we both stepped out of the house. It was around 3 p.m., just a day before Baba T’s burial. Tiffany and Toyosi — the sleeping beauty herself — had already gone out in one of the GLEs to finalize arrangements for the burial, like they’d been doing ever since the body was mysteriously cleared for collection.


****

The black GLE cut through the evening breeze, engine growling. Kenny sat stiff, staring out the window.

“You sure about this?” He asked.

“No. But fear won’t save us either,” I said, eyes fixed on the road.

We drove in silence, the car humming along as DJ Frankiz’s Best of 2000s Blues poured from the speakers — soft, nostalgic, and completely out of place for two men heading straight into trouble.

I drove the GLE into the compound and parked. The air was heavy with the smell of smoke and sweat. Men leaned on cars, their machetes glinting under the weak yellow bulbs. Beside me, Kenny was breathing hard, each breath shaky and uneven.

We had already settled on our next move. He wanted me to help him clear his debt with Agama, and I told him he had to help me deal with Detective Kalu first—only then would I “bring him into the Circle.” That was the story I sold him. The truth? I never planned to bring Kenny into the Circle at all. I can never do that, and even if I wanted to, it’s not possible. I only told him that so he would focus on helping me get this hound, Detective Kalu, off my back—at least until I can take my place on the iron throne of financial stability.

In simpler un-Game-of-thronic terms, I only need Kenny to help me push Detective Kalu away from my trail, at least until I hit the financial target I’m chasing with the Circle. After that, I’ll settle Kenny, give him atleast enough money, and that’s the end of it. He won’t get more than that. The whole talk about bringing him into the Circle was just sweet words. Truth is, I can never open that gate for him. That throne is for my Bran stark alone, and I'm not going to allow this Targaryen sit on it.

One of Agama’s boys disappeared inside to call him out. A few seconds later, he emerged.

Agama stepped forward — tall, broad, gold chain flashing on his chest like it had its own ego. Behind him came Saipon and Cobra, both grinning like hyenas that had just smelled free meat.

“So… the rats finally decided to crawl out,” Agama said, his baritone voice thick with mockery.
“Three years, and you think I’d forget my money?”
He jabbed a thick finger in my direction. “And you — bricklayer — you think I don’t remember you? You wey like to behave like one local commando, eh? If you don take one sachet of blackwood, mix am with super commando, you go dey form boss abi?”

He’s right. We’ve encountered each other at the construction site more than twice. Each time he comes to collect his illegal omo-onile fee, I always resist him a little. In the end, I only give him about ten percent of what he first demands.

“Agama, calm down—let’s talk,” Kenny pleaded, voice shaky.

Cobra cut in, cold. “Talk? No more talk. Today we finish this.”

Saipon smiled cruel. “Boss, you give the word. I cut them down.”

I stepped forward, keeping my voice steady though my heart was beating fast. “The debt is mine, not Kenny’s. But listen — I’m not paying you a kobo.”

They burst out laughing, ugly and loud.

“You think this is a joke?” Agama barked, jabbing a finger at me. “You walk into my yard and spit in my face? You must want to die.”

Cobra moved like he meant it. “Let me do him, boss. One shot and it’s over.”

I closed the distance, calm inside but forming dangerous outside. “If you touch me, you’ll regret it. I’m no longer the bricklayer you know.”

Saipon sneered. “Then who are you? Some yahoo boy with a nice car?”

I looked straight at Agama and dropped the name slow, like a hammer. “CK Mania.”

The laugh died. Silence hit the compound so hard you could hear the wind.

Saipon froze. Cobra’s grin fell away. Agama’s bravado cracked; his face went pale.

“Where did you hear that name?” Agama asked.

“You don't want to find out the hard way.” I replied.

Cobra glanced at Agama, nervous now. “Boss… if he knows that name, then—”

Agama’s eyes darted between his men and me. The swagger had left him. “You… you know CK Mania?”

“I don’t owe you explanations,” I said coldly. “You know what that name means. So listen: the debt is erased. You will not call me, you will not call Kenny, and you will not whisper my name again.”

The men looked at one another. Agama swallowed and lowered his head.

“We didn’t know. No yawa na,” he said, voice calm. “It’s done. No wahala.”

I straightened my jacket and didn’t relax. “Good. Remember this night. Next time you think of crossing me, think twice.”

Kenny and I slid back into the GLE. As the engine roared to life, I caught one last look in the mirror—Agama, Saipon, Cobra and the other guys standing still, fear written all over their faces.

********

That night, the streets were quiet.
Kalu moved through the back alleys like a ghost.
Black hoodie. A face cap that covered at least seventy percent of his face. He walked the roads with a fake limp.

He always changed his walk.
Sometimes like an old man.
Sometimes like a tired worker.
Tonight, he walked like both.

By the time he reached the ferry, the black water showed a reflection that didn’t look like him.

Close to midnight, he arrived at the small apartment he had rented for his wife and daughter.
Curtains drawn. The lights were off.

He knocked — two short, one long. Their secret code.

The door opened slowly.
Naomi stood there, half-asleep, her small hands rubbing her eyes.
But the moment she saw him, her face lit up like morning sun breaking through clouds.

“Daddy!” she whispered, her voice was soft but full of joy.
She ran into his arms like she’d been waiting forever.

Kalu dropped to his knees and held her close, burying his face in her shoulder.
She was warm. Real and safe.
For a moment, the world outside didn’t exist.

“My sunshine,” he said, his voice shaking just a little. “You’re growing too fast. Soon you won’t let me carry you.”

She giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck.
“Never,” she said. “You’re my superhero.”

He smiled — the kind of smile that tries to hide pain but doesn’t quite succeed.
His eyes were tired. His heart was heavy.
He kissed her forehead gently, then whispered to himself,
“Superheroes don’t wear disguises.”

But he was wearing one and she didn’t know why.
She didn’t know the kind of danger her father walked through just to hold her like this.
She didn’t know how many nights he stayed awake, watching shadows, listening for footsteps, praying no one ever found her and her mother.

To her, he was just Daddy.
To the world, he was a man with enemies.
But in that moment, all he wanted was to freeze time — to stay in her arms, to forget the war outside, to be just a father.

And deep down, he knew he couldn’t.
Atleast not yet.
Not while the Circle was still hunting.
Not while the game was still on.

Continuation of episode 24.


From the shadows, Lana stepped out. Arms folded. Her face looked tired.

“You said you’d come earlier,” she said. “You always say that.”

“I tried,” he said quietly. “Had to make sure no one followed me.”

She looked at his hoodie, gloves, fake limp — the usual routine.
“Kalu, how long will this go on? You sneak in like a thief. Our daughter thinks you work in Nollywood. She only gets to see her father in weekends...”

He didn’t reply. Just stared at the floor.

She stepped closer, voice shaking.
“If you’re this scared for us, then take us away. Let’s leave. Go to the States. Start again. I’ll work. Naomi can go to school. You can—”

He cut her off gently.
“I can only protect you when you’re close. If I send you far away, I won’t know when danger comes. These people… they don’t need visas to kill.”

Lana blinked hard. “But hiding us here—”

“I’ve built layers around you,” he said. “Nobody even knows you exist. This is your safest place. Please understand me my love....”

The room went quiet.
Only Naomi’s soft hum as she played on the rug.

Lana’s eyes glistened.
“You talk like a man that’s already gone,” she whispered. “I’m scared, Kalu.”

He touched her cheek.
“I’m scared too,” he said. “But fear keeps us sharp. If I ever want to avenge my brother and sister, I can’t afford peace yet.”

She sighed — tired and defeated.
She had heard this same promise too many times.
She just nodded, because convincing Kalu was like trying to convince a stubborn Arsenal fan that Chelsea is the best club in London.

She leaned into his chest.
“Just promise me one day we’ll live like a real family.”

“One day,” he said.
And they both knew he was lying — not because he wanted to, but because he had to.


Later that midnight, Kalu sat on the couch, phone in hand.
Naomi slept on her mother’s lap, her little breath soft and steady.
The fan hummed lazily above.

He dialed Kenny’s number.
It rang once, twice — no answer.

He frowned. “Pick up, boy.”
Still nothing.

Why is Kenny ignoring his calls. Not supposed to be this time. Not when everything was hanging by a thread.

He tried it again. Voicemail.

Kalu rubbed his face hard. “Damn it, Kenny…” He started thinking of every possible ways to make Kenny pay for this betrayal. He had promised to help Kenny take care of Agama and his boys, and also get him a chance at revenging his friend's death on Darous. But now this fool is trying to play a fast one one him. He was lost in thought for some moments until the phone buzzed.

It was a new message from Kenny.

He opened it fast.
Just six words:

"He bought the bait. Game on" .

Kalu’s lips curved into a slow grin.
The tension melted — replaced by that familiar rush of control.

He leaned back, whispering to himself,
“Good boy.”
And just like that — the hunter’s game began.

To be continued

You this badt guy😂😂😂you sure knows how to play ping pong with ma brains😅😅just see twist, the game don start ghen then👏👏👏I don't even know how to analyze your moves,Kai na Darous I dey fear for,cos even Toyosi is not clean,and I hope Kenny is just playing with detective Kalu.

TBM, good job baba,much love 💯

So many plots and sub plots, you just want to keep us guessing.

You might even be doing all this to confuse even more and leave us wanting more 🤣🤣.

Anyway, still loving the story.

Now who is Kenny loyal too, thats the million dollar question. He might even be playing both of them like this.

You dis man😂😂😂you just dey play ping pong with ma brains 😂😂😂see twist,the game don start💯omoooo,this is getting deeper, infact I don't know how to analyze this matter🤔I hope Kenny is playing detective Kalu,and that Toyosi gal😕I wonder what her game is😔

TBM the badt guy💯more grace baba

No be the same CK Toyosi mentioned in her sleep talk

dawno2008:
You dis man😂😂😂you just dey play ping pong with ma brains 😂😂😂see twist,the game don start💯omoooo,this is getting deeper, infact I don't know how to analyze this matter🤔I hope Kenny is playing detective Kalu,and that Toyosi gal😕I wonder what her game is😔

TBM the badt guy💯more grace baba

This man... 😂😂😂 I can't stop laughing ajeh. Your comments dey always make person laugh ahswear. Toyosi's game is unknown to anyone. The writer writes as the spirit guides. Even I don't know how the story go end at all... That's how I feed off your comments to make even the story more un-guessable😂. But we gather dey na

drewbar:
So many plots and sub plots, you just want to keep us guessing.

You might even be doing all this to confuse even more and leave us wanting more 🤣🤣.

Anyway, still loving the story.

Now who is Kenny loyal too, thats the million dollar question. He might even be playing both of them like this.

plots and acres..... 😂😂😂Brother, the story just dey start o. You know I don't like my stories ending in just few episodes. Maybe by the time we reach episode 40, we go round up sha. Lots of twists ahead baba mi

ghettochild:
No be the same CK Toyosi mentioned in her sleep talk

really bro? The same CK? 🤣 Oya Na. We gather dey. Didn't know you picked on that info... I tried to make it as subtle as I could but you still figured it out... Oya Na.. let's see if you are on point or it's just a stray gift

TheBlessedMAN:
Episode 24 - Game On.
To her, he was just Daddy.
To the world, he was a man with enemies.
But in that moment, all he wanted was to freeze time — to stay in her arms, to forget the war outside, to be just a father.

And deep down, he knew he couldn’t.
Atleast not yet.
Not while the Circle was still hunting.
Not while the game was still on.

Superhero Inspector Kalu don fall my hand. The Circle will definitely discover his secret.

Like arsenal fan wae no dae gree say Chelsea na the best club in London 😁😁

Baba you dae over cause wahala oo😁😁.

Person wae go love hookup banny no go ever believe say the gal dae do hookup na, until e eyes clear finish 😁😁😁

Up gunners 😁😁

Sometimes ehn, Darous need to relieve himself self from many thoughts

He for just ask Tiffany about wetin toyosi talk before she zoom off.

Now baba don dae enter into dip shit unknown to him😤😤

Who knows what next?

EPISODE 25 – The Quiet Ride.



The GLE crawled through traffic like an old tortoise with waist pain. To make matters worst, one keke man in front of us was driving like he borrowed sense from a goat.

Kenny leaned back, sweating and laughing like a mad man.
“Guy! I'm still in shock! You just open mouth talk CK Mania, and those idiots begin behave like altar boys! If na only me, dem for hang my head for shrine!”

I laughed. “That’s power, my brother. Some names don't need gun. You just drop am, and everybody go behave.”

Kenny held his chest, still laughing. “Forget that thing! That your CK Mania na real juju! You see Cobra? The guy freeze like clock wey hin battery don die!”

I grinned. “This one pass juju, bro. Some names for this country dey walk with their own customised thunder. It can strike at anytime and anywhere.”

Kenny turned, eyes wide. “Teach me that one abeg. Next time landlord come collect rent, I go just shout CK Mania! Maybe he go faint.”

I laughed so hard I almost hit the horn. “Idiot! If you try am, landlord go wake up and double your rent for noise pollution.”

Kenny snapped his fingers. “But guy, that Agama guy ehn! You see how he bend? Before, the man dey roar like lion. After you mention that name, he just mellow like goat wey dem pour cold water for him body!”

I nodded. “That’s why I talk am before. No fear man — fear the name wey dey back am.”

Kenny shook his head, grinning. “Nigeria sweet and mad at the same time. You fit shout ‘Up NEPA!’ today and still cry tomorrow say dem no bring light.”

We both burst into laughter, that kind of laughter that shakes your chest and makes people in the next car look at you like you just escaped from Yaba Left.

For that short moment, everything felt light. Like the old days — when I was just a bricklayer, Kenny still doing his aluminium work, Baba T arguing about his SportyBet slip, and Jude always complaining of how the girl he hired at one of his gas shop has stolen money enough to build a new gas plant.
Evenings filled with gist, laughter, and suya.

Inside that GLE that belonged to Tiffany — it almost felt like nothing had changed. Just two idiots laughing inside their own madness, pretending like nothing has changed.

We finally escaped the traffic and rolled into one of the most expensive bars in town. The place was alive — music booming, lights flashing, people shouting, smoke floating everywhere. Girls were dancing on poles like they were made of rubber.

Kenny and I grabbed a corner table. The shisha was bubbling, barbecue smoking, and the bottles sweating like sinners in church.

We sat quietly, eating our barbecue and drinks, while the music from the bar's speakers played loudly.

"Darous, look at that girl..." Kenny patted me and pointed toward a stripper.
I looked where he was pointing and saw her. I was amazed by what I saw. Her waist moving like it had engine oil inside, I mean like it had it's own power steering. Every step she took was a temptation with undercover danger.

I stood up, half-drunk, staggering like a man undergoing deliverance inside a white garment church. Pulled out five bundles of cash and dropped them gently on her yansh.

She turned slowly. Her eyes? Sharp enough to cut glass.

"No touching Mr man." She said, calm but deadly.

I smiled. “No vex, mami. No be my fault, na these money just dey cry for my pocket say dey wan meet your yansh.”

She just raised one eyebrow. So, in my drunken wisdom, I added another bunch of twenty thousand naira— this time with my hand boldly resting on her yansh.

She didn’t talk. She just gave a short whistle.

From nowhere, two bouncers appeared — black suits, black shades, looking like human refrigerators with doors wide open.

“Sir,” one said, voice deep like hoover, “behave yourself.”

Still forming bold, I pointed at my chest. “Do you people know who I am? I’m CK… CK Mania!”

They both looked at each other. Then one said, “Congratulations on your naming ceremony.”

Before I could blink, they lifted me like bag of beans, carried me outside, and dropped me neatly on the floor. They dropped my money on me and it rained down like funeral flyers.

Kenny came running out, laughing like a madman. “Ahhh! CK Mania wey Agama fear — bouncers no even rate you! Bro, your power expired at the gate!"

We both laughed until tears rolled down our faces as I drove the car off into the night, leaving the noise of the bar fading behind.

******

Detective Kalu woke up to the soft vibration of his phone. A message.
He blinked twice, rubbed his eyes, and reached for it on the bedside table.

Message from Kenny:
“Good morning sir. Just wanted to let you know — Baba T’s burial will hold today around noon. At the cemetery near the morgue.”

Kalu read it twice, then smiled to himself.
“Good lad.” he whispered.

He threw the blanket aside and swung his legs down from the bed. But before he could stand, he felt a soft hand on his back. His wife was awake, still half-covered in the duvet.

“Kalu, where are you going this early?”

“Work. Something just came up.” He answered.

She sat up slowly, staring at him with tired eyes. “Before you go… there’s something I need to tell you.”

Her voice was quiet but heavy. Kalu turned slightly, already sensing trouble. He knew his wife too well. He knows the kind of look she always gives before dropping a bomb.

“What is it?”

She took a deep breath. “I’ve not seen my period for three months.”

Kalu paused and then blinked. Then scoffed. “Oh, come on. Maybe your hormones are just playing games again. You worry too much.”

She shook her head. “No, Kalu. I went for a test yesterday.”

That froze him. He turned sharply to face her. “You did what?”

She frowned, a little defensive now. “I went for a test. I needed to be sure before telling you.”

He stood there, his heartbeat racing. “You went to the hospital by yourself? Are you out of your mind? You could’ve been followed! Do you know who’s watching us right now?”

Calm down, Kalu!” Lana said, raising her hands slightly. “I took precautions. Nobody followed me. I even used a fake name — Halima Buhari. And I gave them a wrong address too.”

Kalu stared at her, eyes sharp and searching. After a long second, he exhaled, dragging his hand over his tired face. Relief slowly melted through his tension.

He sat beside her on the bed, voice softer now. “Still, Lana… you can’t just go out like that without calling me. Not with everything happening. You know what’s out there.”

She scoffed. “Oh please. You’re the one who said I shouldn’t call your line unless it’s a life-or-death emergency.”
She paused, then rolled out of the duvet. The morning light from the window hit her bare uncovered body—her firm breasts glowing, flawless and real. “These days, one can’t even tell what qualifies as an emergency anymore,” she murmured, almost to herself.

Kalu said nothing. He just sat there, watching her — a mix of love, fear, and guilt in his eyes.

Lana sighed, her voice softening. “I’m sorry, Kalu. I just needed to be sure before saying anything.”

He forced a tired smile and stood. Slowly, he walked to her, his hand brushing her cheek. “Okay,” he whispered. “So… what did the test say?”

Her lips trembled. She took a small breath before answering, barely above a whisper:
“I’m three months gone.”

The words slammed into him like a brick wall. His heart skipped. His eyes widened.

“Three… months?”

The air in the room changed — heavy, frozen. Even the sound of traffic outside felt far away, like the world had gone silent to listen.

Kalu’s mind spun.
Images flashed — their daughter, Naomi, ten years old now, laughing every time her home tutor showed up. The secret hospital visits. The tests. The failed hopes. The nights they held each other in silence, praying for another chance.

And now, this.

He swallowed hard, his voice cracking. “You’re serious?”

Lana nodded slowly, a small smile forming through tears. “I am. I even saw the scan.”

Kalu covered his face with both hands and let out a shaky breath. His shoulders trembled slightly.
“God…” he whispered. “After all these years.”

He lowered his hands and looked at her again — this time not like a detective, but like a man who just found a piece of himself he thought was lost forever.

Then, as quickly as joy opened a new Facebook account on the mobile phone of his mind, fear clicked the follow button and made a very fast comment under the pregnancy post.
Just two words:

The Circle.

He looked at her again, a swirl of love and panic in his eyes.

He forced a small smile. “That’s… that’s good news, my love. The best news.”

He pulled her close, kissing her forehead. But behind that smile, his mind was already calculating and plotting his next move.


******

The Sunday morning started quiet.
I woke up before everyone else. The air inside Toyosi’s house felt heavy, like it too knew what was about to happen. Tiffany was in the kitchen, moving around in her white wrapper, her face pale but calm. Toyosi was on the phone, giving last-minute instructions to the event people at the cemetery. Kenny just sat on the couch, elbows on his knees, staring at nothing as tears traced the contours of his face.

I had been trying to reach Jude for the past few days. Each time I called, the same cold voice said, “The number you dialed is not available.” After the fifth try, I gave up on calling and started dropping messages — on WhatsApp, Telegram, even Facebook. But none of them got read. Not a single blue tick. So after a while, I just sighed and let it go.
Maybe he didn’t want to face today. I couldn’t blame him.

By 7:00am, we were ready.
Tiffany dressed in a black fitted gown that hugged her body just right — simple, elegant, but with that quiet kind of beauty that makes people stop and stare without knowing why. Her hair was packed neatly, her skin glowed softly under the sitting room light. She looked like sorrow wrapped in grace — too beautiful for the moment, yet perfect for it.

Toyosi stood beside her in a black lace dress that shimmered gently as she moved. Her beauty was calm and mature but Tiffany… she carried a certain glow that morning. Maybe it was her eyes, maybe it was the sadness behind them — either way, she looked like a poem dressed in black.

Kenny and I wore black too. He had on a plain shirt and trousers, everything simple but sharp. I wore the same — a clean black shirt, dark trousers, shades to hide my eyes. The girls had gotten us the clothes the day before. They had even bought one extra, in case Jude decided to show up. But he didn’t. So it stayed folded inside the nylon, waiting for no one.

We all stood in front of the house for a long moment, saying nothing. The air itself felt heavy, pressing down on our chests. Even the birds were quiet. You could almost feel Baba T’s spirit around us — not angry, not sad, just there, watching.

Tiffany’s hand trembled a little as she adjusted her gown. Toyosi placed a hand on her shoulder, her eyes soft but red. None of us spoke — there was nothing to say that hadn’t already been said in our hearts.

Then I took out the car key. The black GLE waited quietly under the dull morning sun.

“Let’s go,” I said quietly.

We moved towards the car in silence, our steps slow and heavy. Our collective perfume lingered in the air, soft and sad. Toyosi’s lace brushed lightly against my hand as she passed. And as we got into the car, it felt like we were carrying more than just ourselves — we were carrying memories, regrets, and one last promise: to take Baba T home.

By 9 a.m., the funeral team arrived. The casket they brought could make a man jealous of the dead — smooth mahogany finish, gold handles, and a white velvet interior. Three hundred thousand naira well spent.

When the morgue attendants rolled out Baba T’s body, silence fell over the whole place. It was like the air itself stopped moving. His face looked calm — too calm — like someone who had finally found the rest life never gave him. The once-potbelly he used to boast about was gone, flat and quiet. The same belly that once held half the beer in Lagos… now just an empty shell. It hit all of us again at once — Baba T was really gone.

We placed him gently inside the casket and closed the lid.

The hired Mercedes-Benz GLS was parked outside, shining quietly under the pale morning sun. It was meant for one thing only — to carry Baba T’s body to the cemetery.

As they lifted his casket into the vehicle, something hit me deep. In his whole life, Baba T had only ridden in a car that expensive once — that night I rented a G-Wagon for Mrs. Adeoye’s event.

Now look at this — he finally got his second ride, but he couldn’t even see the road.

Kenny wiped his face with his palm. “Damn,” he muttered. “Baba T is gone like that!.” Tears flooded his eyes again.

I nodded. Couldn’t even speak. My chest felt tight.


****

At the cemetery, the crowd shocked me.
Men from the bar where Baba T breathed his last, the regulars, even some girls who used to joke with Baba T were there — all dressed in black, faces wet with tears. The moment they saw the casket being brought down, a few of them started crying loud.
Tiffany and Toyosi really tried. They handled everything — flowers, chairs, drinks, sound system, even a small canopy for crowd. It wasn’t just a burial anymore; it was a proper farewell.

The pastor began his sermon.
His voice cracked through the microphone:
“We are gathered here to lay our brother to rest… a man full of laughter, a man who gave joy to many…”

Every word felt like a knife.
Kenny’s head hung low, his shoulders trembling. I wanted to comfort him, but the weight in my own chest was too much.

Tiffany leaned into me, her body warm against the cold air — saying nothing, just reminding me I wasn’t alone in the pain.

Toyosi placed a gentle tap on my shoulders and point in a direction. My eyes followed her hand and then — something caught my eye.

A figure standing alone by the far corner, under the palm trees. Black suit. Black hat. Dark shades.

It was Detective Kalu.

I froze. Then I nudged Kenny slightly.

“Look. Over there.”

He followed my eyes, saw Kalu, and hissed under his breath.
“Darous, leave that man, abeg… we are here for Baba T, not him.”
I breathed out and nodded.

"Who is he?". Toyosi asked.

"A police man. Investigating Baba T's death." Kenny answered.

“How did he even know we’re doing this today?” Toyosi asked again.

“He's the one at the hospital abi Darous?" Tiffany followed.

" Yeah..." I answered .

" This is holy ground — devil is not allowed here.” Tiffany spat.

I wasn’t angry. If anything, I was glad that Kalu had come, it meant the trap was working. He was watching, trying to figure out how a bricklayer like me could pay for such a rich burial. He’d link it to the Circle. He’d assume they sponsored it.
Good. Let him think that. Let him follow paper trails and whispers. By the time he finds Tiffany’s name on the receipts, it’ll point him the wrong way. My plan was moving.

The pastor’s final words echoed in my head: “From dust we came… to dust we return.”

They lowered Baba T into the ground. The sound of the shovel against soil hit like a punch. Kenny broke first — a raw grief that ripped the air. Toyosi sobbed. Tiffany cried so hard it looked like she’d known him all her life.

“Do not despair, my brethren. He is in a better place,” the pastor said.

I nodded, but my chest said something else. Maybe the world didn’t deserve him.

Some minutes later, after the grave was filled, I turned towards the palm tree section. Kalu was still by the palm trees, watching us. He raised a hand — a quiet signal for me to come to him.

I excused myself and walked over to him.

He took off his shades and spoke in a low voice. “I’m sorry for your loss. But you and I both know this man won’t rest until his killer is caught.”

“That’s your job, Detective,” I said.

He didn’t smile. “Maybe. But I’m not the one who helped the culprit escape.”

“Are you accusing me of something here?” I asked, frowning.

“No. Just stating facts. I could arrest you now, but I’m after a bigger game.”

“Game? Like PS5?"

" Don't you dare joke about this." He said with a hard gaze at me.

" I'm not... just tell me sir, what game is bigger than PS5?" I shot back.

He scowled. “You want to be funny right. I know the Circle pays for your life — the cars, the sudden money, all these shows, flashy lifestyles, a bricklayer like you? It's not possible. It all ties back to them. The Circle.”

“The Circle?” I said, mocking. “If you’d stop talking mathematics for one minute, maybe I'll get your point.”

He leaned closer. “Trying to play smart? Abi, don't worry I’ll dig you out. You’re just a small fish in a sea of whales.”

“Oh, now we’re into fish markets? Next you’ll blame me for the high cost of living.” I said.

“Be careful, boy. Be very careful,” he warned.

“You too,” I replied. "You should be careful of accusing me of something I didn't do...and face your..." I was still speaking when Tiffany’s voice snapped across from behind me.

“What is this sinner doing on holy ground?” she barked.

I turned around. Tiffany was standing there, her face tight and angry. I looked past her and saw Toyosi and Kenny still by the grave, holding each other and crying.

“It’s nothing serious,” I said quickly, trying not to make her suspect anything.

“Tell her everything, Darous,” Kalu said quietly.

“Hey, Mr—can’t you see we’re mourning here?” she snapped at him.

“And why should I care? Am I the one who killed him?” Kalu shot back.

She scoffed.
“You’re the kind of man who would rather watch the whole country burn if it made you king of the ashes,” she fired.

“Calm down, babe… let’s just go,” I said, trying to hold her hand and pull her away before Kalu will say something that can land me in trouble.

"Let's go..babe..leave this man alone." I told her and tried dragging her again.

“No. What exactly does he want from you?" She nearly yelled.

" It's nothing babe...just talking..." I said calmly but her face suddenly snapped.

" Don't lie to me....What does he want with you?” she asked, jerking her hand away from mine.

“Tell her na.." Kalu said and moved closer to us. " Tell your b*tch—” He started the insult but she didn't let him finish.

Tiffany moved fast towards him and slapped his face so hard his hat flew off. Heads turned. There was a second of stunned silence.

"You this b*tch!" Detective Kalu thundered and then another slap landed on his face, louder this time.

Kalu’s face flared red. “You are so dead today—” he roared.

“Call me a b*tch again.” Tiffany hissed, “and I’ll kick your balls so hard you’ll invent a new curse for the letter B.”

I grabbed her quickly and hold her close to my body. Trying to prevent her from hitting him again.

He stepped back, furious. He walked to his car and came back with handcuffs in his hand.

“Madam,” he said, voice cold and official, “you are under arrest for assaulting a police officer. You have the right to remain silent....”


I watched nervously as he pushed her into the back of his car and drove away.



To be continued

Na wah ooo😕😕😕 this update is really anyhow jawe😤first I believed Darous spent too much money for the burial 😳like come on,it only open them to who is really watching 😔 Darous is really loose guarding 🥺 with too many untrustworthy friends ie Kenny and Toyosi 😏 Tiffany could easily think and wonder how detective Kalu knows about the burial date😔and Kenny is biting more than he can chew💯most annoying part is son of thunder behaving like goldsmith's son😤😤😤

In summary,this update dey vex me,cos the match Tiffany promise that big head son of ⚡ thunder don get k-leg😤😤cos that pretty damsel is getting a room in a dark smelling cell🤬
TBM wa gbayi🍻💯👍

TheBlessedMAN:
really bro? The same CK? 🤣 Oya Na. We gather dey. Didn't know you picked on that info... I tried to make it as subtle as I could but you still figured it out... Oya Na.. let's see if you are on point or it's just a stray gift

Me wey be future unborn child of Darous son of sango, the sharp guy.. how I know go spot am??
I won’t be surprised to find out that toyosi and her friend Tiffany know the Circle wella n dem be members sef.
I been with you since Day one so how know your plot twists is definitely gonna be

dawno2008:
Na wah ooo😕😕😕 this update is really anyhow jawe😤first I believed Darous spent too much money for the burial 😳like come on,it only open them to who is really watching 😔 Darous is really loose guarding 🥺 with too many untrustworthy friends ie Kenny and Toyosi 😏 Tiffany could easily think and wonder how detective Kalu knows about the burial date😔and Kenny is biting more than he can chew💯most annoying part is son of thunder behaving like goldsmith's son😤😤😤

In summary,this update dey vex me,cos the match Tiffany promise that big head son of ⚡ thunder don get k-leg😤😤cos that pretty damsel is getting a room in a dark smelling cell🤬
TBM wa gbayi🍻💯👍

Even me sef was looking forward to the match but be like fifa Kalu don cancel the match ooooo.... 😂