₦airaland Forum

nnekamezor: Nice work Dearie... weldone...i was jst smiling thru esp wen Kathy n kelvin were hving lunch

Really? Tell me more about why you were smiling.

Royal pence should start pouring into the golden bowl. Do invite all members and friends here.
Thank you.

@Godwah and Toykathy, you've not been reading every post carefully because I already continued from where I stopped and I did announce it.

Please chapter 15 is the beginning of the continuation.

LarrySun: Jejune

Not nutritious or void of substance.

15


'Welcome Sir, Welcome ma.' The waitress, dressed in a navy blue and white gown greeted with a smile.

'Thank you.' Katherine replied not picking the menu list.

'Thanks Helen.' He returned smiling.

'Sir, what will you like to order? '

'You've heard of ladies first, haven't you? ' Kelvin returned with a question.

Helen directed her attention back to Katherine. 'Ma, what will your order be? '

Katherine glanced up at the smiling face before looking at her companion. 'I'll rather you order first. '

He knew that tone well and especially knew that it was pointless to argue. 'Dear, I will have my usual.'

'I'll have same with him, thank you.' She chirped in with a smile, afterwhich she picked the menu list.

He waited till Helen left. 'Kathy, you shouldn't have done that, you don't even know my usual is and if you would like it. '

'That should be least of worries, you should be praying that you don't have to spoon feed me.' She said with eyes focused on the list.

Kelvin burst into laughter. Though it was calmly said, it was so tight that he considered it a retort.

Even when the meal was served, he was still amused that he had to express his gratitude with a wave of hand while Katherine mouthed hers.

'I'm sorry.' He eventually halt as her eyes were now boring into him. 'Let's bless our meal.'

'Yea, bless the meal.' She shut her eyes.

He smiled at her promptness before following her cue. 'Father we thank you for another privilege to feast. We asked that you provide for those looking up to you for what to eat. Jehovah Jireh bless this meal and bless the hands that prepared it in Jesus name.'

'Amen.' They both chorused.

The aroma and the presentation made her mouth to water. Before them was Chinese fried rice and egg with baked fish to be downed with a bottles of  Schweppes, she knew thawed peas, garlic, sesame oil were special ingredients added among others.
She loved the cube sized liver that littered the meal, she knew the meal was going to be tasty.
It took her down memory lane for few seconds.

He watched and saw her blinked severally, exhaled before picking her fork.

'You do have a sweet way of payback. ' He was referring to their exchange. He looked at his meal and noticed its content looked a bit different.

'I haven't considered payback yet and you're already complaining. ' She shot him a warning glance

'Oh... goodie goodie Lord in heaven!' He exclaimed and they both laughed.

'Hmmmm...this is delicious.' She couldn't help but say in between chewing.

'Yea... kind of tastily different from my usual.' He scooped the meal into his mouth.

Silence prevailed as they both ate, savored their meal and sipped their drink.

'You amaze me Katherine, how you could give such speech with little time to prepare.' He lifted the bottle to his lips. 'I like to ask you a question I've asked before, why did you stop schooling and do your family members know the turn your life has taken?'

'I am afraid I can't answer that. ' She said simply but her countenance changed.

A couple of minutes passed between them.

'Kathy, you're picking your meals.'

'I'm sorry Kel, I lost my appetite.' She told him eyes still on the meal. She couldn't look at him, She couldn't tell him he was digging up memories that She had tried so hard to bury.

'That should be expected, it is hard for the body to break free from a routine it is used to and that's the case with you,you are so used to spending every day at work without lunch, so no appetite at all is expected but not to worry for I'm ready to reprogram you whatever the cost.' He smiled at her.

His words and smile drew out a smile from her overshadowing the sadness that had engulfed her.

She shrugged. 'You are right, even a lay man knows that but you sound more like a professional, at some point in time did you do something related to medicine or psychology? '

'Naw...' He drawled,'Not my kind of stuff but the tone might be because I have a medical doctor in my family.'

'Hmmm...little wonder.' She concluded and sipped water.

'Go ahead Kathy, pick your meal I would't mind waiting and cheering you.' He told her gleefully.

She rolled her eyes and chuckled.

When it was time to eat her fish, She struggled in dividing her fish and he helped her and took three pieces from hers which he called his compensation.

On clearing the plates, Helen complimented on her speech which is partly attributed to the upgraded meal they had ate.

They walked back to their various offices, Katherine happier and Kelvin more determined to know the reason behind her veil.
***
*-*
With both palms underneath her chin, Shakirat studied the opened brochure. She was seated in the armed chair with both elbows on the reading desk.

Tobi walked in from the gym having done his evening work out, He was compelled to halt pass the door and take in his wife posture and the four brochures that were opened on the desk.

His brows narrowed. 'Sweetie, what's going on?' He continued in his strides and on a lighter note added. 'Are you preparing for an exam? '

She glanced at him and her gaze returned to the brochure. 'I want the twins to come back to Nigeria and complete their secondary education.'

'What! Why?' He went wide eyed.

'I... I am not comfortable anymore with the distance.' She muttered audible enough for him to hear.

'Baaby... ' He drawled and then heaved to keep his emotions in check. 'You're the one that wanted my girls abroad in the first place and don't tell me you intend withdrawing them in their final year.'

Shakirat inhaled and exhaled deeply. She stood as tears rolled down her cheeks and faced her husband who was taken aback by her tears. ' Sweetie... ' Since it was like a muffled sound, She cleared her voice. 'I know what I said my love but... Prince has been appearing in dream... ' She sniffed.' He was crying and every time I reach for him, he vanishes.' She sobbed.

Tobi took her into his arms.

'I am afraid... I want Rosemary and Rosamund back home. Please... ' She burst into tears.

His arms around her tightened and he fought back his tears. 'It's okay Babe. If that is you what, we will work on convincing them? '

She nodded.
+++
*-*
The driver opened the door and She looked back on impulse just to see Abbey, the security officer running to catch up with her.

She waited.

'Hello Katherine, Oh no...Good evening ma.' He corrected himself.

'Good evening Abbey.' She beamed. 'Skip the ma, we are pals.'

He looked left and right before whispering. 'Please don't let someone else hear that.'

The driver had already gone into the car.

Katherine chuckled. 'How're you doing jare? '

'I am fine.
<!--more-->

It was a beautiful talk you gave us yesterday.'

'Thank you for always believing in me.'

'Thank you for never proving me wrong.' He returned. 'I don't know if you're aware but I resigned and I will be leaving SIC by next week. I got an employment in Abuja that I'm passionate about. '

'Eeya, congratulations Abbey. I am going to miss you and SIC would lose one of its efficient security staff.'

Abbey chuckled. 'I'm optimistic SIC will get a better replacement.'

'I'm happy for you and please on Friday, come and see me. You can't leave SIC without a parting gift from me.'

'Thank you very much. '

Katherine entered the car, he closed the door after her and waved.


+++

gennysq: Interesting
Buh ur last 3 updates had errors. U used AA instead of AS a̶̲̥̅̊η∂ vice versa, wen Fav n Stella went to redo Deir tests. a̶̲̥̅̊η∂ also used her (Tolani) instead of his.

And you replaced Favour with Faith at some point.

I'm joining Prettyspicey to tell you ride on. Thumbs up dear, I now follow.

TemitopeDaniel: Lol.

Firstly, I neva finish dz one na...
secondly, sheyb I dey write peace and april
Lastly, aw was ur night

I marvel how to type and update more than once daily and in two different stories or more. Teach me na... you hear?

I really need all members back to move on, this silence is chilling.

crislyn: Isn't ds last update frm fighting back? BTW, I'm rily glad ds story is bak!

Yes that was the last update.

labaski: i wsh Stella and tolani are not compatible..i ll prefer stella being wt tobi..

Why dear?

toykathy: Weldone Queen, God bless u plenty. Wen is d nxt update pls?

Tomorrow

Yippie!!

TemitopeDaniel: This should be familiar...

Very familiar Sweetie. Thank you.

I'm so happy for Stella and Fave.

That was where we stopped before the hack. Fresh update will start this week. Your encouragement will be appreciated.

14


'Do you have the arrangement compiled the way I asked? ' She asked the male receptionist who had left the counter to meet her in the inner office.

'Yes ma.' He handed the file over.

'Akpan are they seated as they came, their names and arrival time documented? '

'Yes ma.' Akpan affirmed. 'With the aid of Abbey, the security officer, they are seated from the left hand side in the reception hall. You can have a look if you wish.'

'Yes please. ' she looked through the glass which gave a clear view of the reception.

She opened the file, scan through and then looked through the screen.

Akpan studied her. 'Do you need a seat.'

'I don't mind, thank you.' She looked at him smiling. He had been in the waters of SIC before her but yet, here he was respecting her.

He lifted a high stool close and she sat before directing her gaze back to the applicants.

She began to write on the papers taking note with a pencil. That she did for about ten minutes before walking out to the reception.

'Good morning everyone.' She smiled charmingly as twenty pair of eyes directed their attention to her. 'I am sorry we didn't keep to the scheduled time, it was intentional because the ten minutes out of the thirty minutes delay was used for screening.

They all became alert and those who had familiarized themselves exchanged glances.

'I know you are all eager to know what the screening is all about but when I give the results, I don't want to call names, take number from my left hand side. '

In a less than a minute, they were done with taking numbers.

'This screening I consider important because in a way it proves one's level of commitment to work. The time of resumption of most companies is 8am, SIC inclusive, and you were all notified of the time of the interview.
Definitely, distance barrier is cancelled for it was not impromptu, if you definitely had this job in mind, you would have prepared to be here in time.' She paused and glanced at their.

Some avoided her gaze out of guilt.

'I am emphasizing to make bad enough to prevent making this kind of mistake again and increasing your employment chances next time.'

She glanced at the file she was holding. 'If you are arrived here from ten minutes before nine, you're late. Having said that, number 20 to 17 are screened out. I Wish you favour next time.' She waited till they left.

'Ladies and gentlemen, the next screening will be on general comportment which include decency in dressing, eating habit, some of you did not stop chewing until I walked in. Based on that... ' She looked back to her file. 'number 13, 9, 5, 12, 11, 7 and fourteen are screened. I believe you know which category you fall in but don't hesitate to object and I will explain why.'

She waited as they, some had dared to give her quelling look before they were ushered out by Abbey.

They were all females save one.

Katherine beamed at them. 'I am left with number one, two, three, four, six and eight and we shall proceed for our interview. You can follow Mr Abiodun to the room.

The assistant to Akpan, handed her some questionnaires and made to follow her.

'Don't worry Agnes, I've got it.' She told her with a smile.

+++

*-*

Good morning and we are all welcome to a meeting that is impromptu yet well honored. 'Katherine beamed.

They were all seated in the largest conference room with 95% of the employees present. All department had more than one representative.

'We all gathered to discuss a matter that pose a threat to we all, that is if we permit.' She stood. 'I need to say this so we know the importance of the matter, if my person is going to prevent you from paying attention, please disregard me and listen.' She stood.

She had noticed the look of envy on the expression of most ladies. They had kept tabs on her in a bid to know why so she was so favored, so when she stood, their eyes took in her dressing.

She looked like royalty in the glittering blue snowflaked chiffon flared skirt just on her knees while above it was a sleeveless white blouse and a blazer of same material of the skirt was over the blouse. Her hair that was packed in knots was held by a hair band with both color combination. Her feet were in a silver colored two inches slippers. It was a freestyle friday as in dressing.

'The boss discovered a deepening valley replacing the ever increasing hill we used to have. The general input of this company is dwindling because we have decided not to give SIC our best anymore.' She left to stand behind her seat. She had been seated left hand to Kelvin.
'Decisions like that don't just come like that, somethings are taken into consideration whether consciously or unconscious. Such decisions are usually influenced.' She paused purposefully for what she said to sink in.

'What are some of the influences?' She opened a palm. 'We all know the power that lies in the tongue, it well emphasized in the holy book, I can't speak for other religious books. '

They all listened and their eyes followed her hand movements.

'The tongue can mar or make a person, it is also a sword that can slash a person void of touch. It is the smallest member of the body yet outshines the rest. The negative ways to use one tongue includes tale bearing, back biting, gossiping etcetera.
I will talk about them jointly because they are kind of similar. Give a man pen, paper and present before him a scene, a blurred one. He noticed what looks the pen of someone he has a grudge against. He might not bother to a take a closer look anymore as his imagination take charge as he begin to write things he is unsure of .

Tale bearing is time consuming and brain tasking. Soon the gossip will be packaged and presented in a colorful form and it spreads from mouth to ear, abi is it ear to mouth?'

Most of them smiled but no one attempted to reply.

'Whatever.' she finalized with a grin. 'Before long, a mouth wouldn't realise it is the telling the subject of the gossip about the gossip, then, a cycle is accomplished. Such cycle breeds animosity, grudge, malice and the need to retaliate. I can't imagine anyone with such mindset giving his or her best at work because most of the time, he is looking for an occasion to retaliate or a tale to spread.

"And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so the tongue is among our members, that it defileth our whole body and setteth on fire the course of nature and it is set on fire of hell. "

It is against nature that people should bare false witness for it creates fire where such exist and we should also remember that where there was an outbreak of fire, the ground is not spared.
The boss will always say that a team that works together wins together but a loner never achieves much.' She paused once more.

<em>Oh! She did take what he says to heart. </em>He sipped water and then returned his attention back to her.

'Having that in mind, the next thing I want to talk about is selfishness, the I, I, I attitude. You have attained a position due to hardwork and resilience in spite of being trodden by superiors and now you're one, you seat, put your legs up on the desk and crossed them. You activate hibernating mode.

The- I don't care attitude. ' She lifted both hands to demonstrate quotation marks. 'It might not matter now but it will when we are out in the ocean looking for a place cosy enough to keep afloat. If SIC goes down, we all go with it whether we like it or not. It is our source of daily bread and we should put it all our might. No matter your qualification looking for a new job is not easy and when one gets one, the post and respect might not be same.'

Most nodded thoughtfully.

'For our sakes , the vision and mission of this company, let's joined hands and work together. In many years to come, God sparing our lives, we should be able to proudly say we contributed to the solid foundation of SIC.'

Heads began nodding.

'Let's forgive and forget, we are all brothers and sisters. Let help each other. ' She beamed. 'Shall we all rise and join hands?'

They obeyed and she joined hands with Kelvin and the executive director, Mr Olaide Maechi.

'I want to know those that are into greatness. Can we chorus revolution ?'

'Revolution!' They chorused.

'Hmmm...' She drawled thoughtfully. 'That doesn't sound like it was from people who have decided to give SIC their best.'

'Revolution!' They chorused and it was resounding.

She urged them to repeat it for the final time which they did and resounding round of applause followed suit.

'Thank you very much.' She made to hand over to Kelvin who asked her go ahead and round off.
She in turn called on Oluwafemi to round with a short prayer.

They cheered when she and Kelvin left afterwards.

Obviously, she had worked her way into their respective heart or so she felt.

+++

*-*

Katherine sat and buried her face in her palms.

Kelvin took in the braids of her hair before he walked to the mini fridge, took in the packs of pineapple and coconut juice. <em>It was obvious she love pineapple and coconut. He picked a bottled water and closed the fridge. He unsealed it.</em>

'Kathy you should drink water. Here.'

She raised her head and avoided looking at him. 'Thank you.' She received it and gulped one quarter.

He pulled a chair and sat. 'You have a gift of the garb.'

'Thanks.' She took another sip of water.

'I am impressed with the way you handled everything, it was magical. Do you know I consider a proper gratitude? '

'Tell me.' She looked at him.

'Taking you out for a late lunch. ' He still retained his smile revealing his milk-looking immaculate teeth.

She raised her brows alarmed but managed to keep her voice calm.'Mouthing your gratitude like you already did is just perfect. I did that for we all.'

He knew it and saw it, that look of panic and he wasn't going to let get her away with it, not this day. 'I know what you did Kathy, if you're not comfortable with me taking you out, we can make do with the company's cafeteria. '

'No Kelvin. ' She shook her head too quickly.

'I not asking for your permission dear but come to think of it... ' He grinned mischievously. 'You've not had lunch since I've know you. Is it like prohibited where you come from? I do love stories that go way back. '

'Don't be ridiculous! ' She shot him a warning gaze but the dreamy look on his face and teasing smile that etched his lips melted the anger that had wanted to surface. 'I'll do lunch. '

'Thank you Miss Sylvester, see you by 4.' He stood, winked before he head out.

Her eyes followed him out and noticed his walking steps were different, he was practically bouncing away. She burst into bouts of laughter when the door closed.

+++

13

'See me in my office now.' He instructed without a glance at her and proceeded without reducing his strides.

Her pen dropped and her heart sank right to the bottom of her abdomen.

Oh God have mercy... His tone had being more of a rebuke than instruction. He had never used such tone on her.

Had she actually blundered? Were  the applause and nodding of heads mere act to prevent her from feeling embarrassed?
Was her boss disappointed in her?
Was he going to throw her out?

She stood supporting herself with hands on the arms of the chair. As she walked to the office she realised that SIC was her family, a reason for purposeful days to look forward to.

Her life was not going to remain the same.

She knocked, waited  and then entered. She glanced at his face before closing the door behind her.

'Sit.'  He told her quietly.

She glanced at him before she obeyed, her palms had become sweaty.

Kelvin knew he had made her apprehensive. 'This is a surprise and at the same time not a surprise, it is a kind of  paradox.' He flashed her a smile.

Oh God, he is trying not to make me feel bad before he throws me out.

' This is beyond a double coincidence and this recommendation is extraordinary because it is coming from great people. ' He paused momentarily and sat back. 'And to also think that so much is being said and done by a high school graduate baffles me.' He shrugged at an afterthought. 'Nothing is impossible with God, afterall, you're His creature. 'Based on that and what have been thinking of for sometime, I have decided to fill a position that I didn't consider anyone qualified until now. ' He waited. 'Katherine Sylvester, you're now Sigismund Assistant Director. '

Katherine closed her eyes feeling like a heavy blow has been dealt on her. She didn't understand his introduction but it didn't matter anymore.

She took quick deep breath as she felt like she was choking.

His last statement was definitely a figment of her imagination.

She could vouch it was a figment of her imagination.

She opened her eyes to find his steady gaze on her with brows narrowed in worry.

He had been afraid that she would suffer cardiogenic shock with the way she blanched and shivered.

'Forgive me Sir.' She cleared her throat and adjusted to the edge of her seat. 'Can you please repeat what you just said? ' She glanced back to ensure someone else had not entered the office and he had been referring to the person.

He laughed at her action. 'Katherine Sylvester, you're Sigismund International appointed Assistant Director General. ' He repeated emphatically.

'Jesus.' She muttered before she broke into a short laugh. 'Sir is this a joke or assessment of some sort? '

'None of the above ma'am, I am serious. ' Kelvin stated simply.

'Sir you are forgetting something vital, You've forgotten my root, I am cleaner.' The pitch of her voice rose slightly and she placed a palm on her chest in a bid to convince him. 'What do I intend to achieve being an ADG without qualifications?'

'You are appointed by recommendations not qualifications my dear.'

'What are you talking about? ' She was on the verge of crying out.

'My dad told me you worth more than a secretary, the head of advertisement and research said same, the Production manager said so for the second time today and expressed his intention to recruit you in the production company and it was like a scale fell off my eyes just listening to you today. You've been working with me for over a year and I know that you're far more than a secretary .'

She shook her head in quick successions.

He tilted his head to a side. 'Are you trying to tell me we are all wrong. '

'I don't know! ' She said exasperated.

Kelvin was on his feet, 'if you don't know, you have no right to argue or object. Let me make this clear to you...' He gave her a stern glare. 'There is nothing you will do that will make me change my mind.'

She would have managed to smile if not that she was angry and shocked. 'Really? ' She stood.

'Yes' He crossed over to sitting wing of his office.

'What are you doing? ' she went wide eyed in alarm as he turned on a switch before he adjusted table camera on a side table. 'Getting ready to give the company the news.'

'Jesus Christ! ' She exclaimed hysterically. 'Sir, this is completely absurd! '

'Maybe to you not to me.' He attached the microphone to his immaculate shirt before going on switch the camera and a screen occupying one-quarter of the wall came alive.

She moved closer not even knowing it, by then her eyes were filled with tears.

He sat and focused the camera. 'Attention every one. Attention please... switch on the screen in your various department, I have an announcement to make.

She stood beyond the focal point of the camera but at a place where she could see the screen.

Various departments in partitioned form began to show on the screen.

He gave the announcement and everywhere became still.

She nodded knowingly at their reaction.

'Anyone who have objection, objections about the news should speak now.' He waited for three minutes before proceeding. 'In the absence of any objection, Thank you. '

Applause broke out from a department she couldn't figure out and it spread like if they didn't, they would all lose their jobs and some went ahead to top it with a plastic smile.'

Katherine went back to stand beside her earlier seat. He switched off all devices before he returned back to his high back seat with a smile. 'You see no objection and the deed is done.'

She considered herself blind that there was no objection indeed. She just looked on.

He knew he hadn't convinced her. <em>Was this about what people will say? </em> 'Sit Katherine, let's talk about this. I hope this is not about what some might say because you remember you said... '

'With all due respect, I know what I said.' She tried not to snap. 'What I would not take is someone manipulating me and that is what you just did. I will not go along with your offer until I have thought about it. I promise.you a feedback. Thank you Sir.'

That said, she left and closed the door behind her.

'What! ' He exclaimed and then shook his head in disbelief. He would never really understand her, he realised to his dismay. He sighed.


<em>Who in the world would reject such offer? And emphatically do so.</em>

+++

*-*

'...before we end the stock market report for Sigismund International, information reaching our news room is that the post of the assistant director general is now held by Miss Katherine Sylvester...'

Katherine glanced at the TV screen from the lying position on the sofa.

Just then, her phone rang, she did not need to check her phone to know who the caller was.

He was probably watching same news bulletin.

She allowed the call to end before sending him a text message.

It was strictly her decision and she would allow no influence in spite publicity.

+++

*-*

Katherine saw him first as came out from his private elevator.

He looked back because he felt the presence of another.

'Good morning Sir.' She greeted without a smile, nevertheless looking gorgeous in a crotchet laced dress suit, her natural hair ghana-weaved at front and the rest were singly weaved and gathered into a cream-colored clip. A brown three inches pencil heeled shoes with a cream alongside brown colored bag completed her dressing.

He heaved before turning around.'Good morning Katherine, did we actually have a real fight? '

'I have a ready made answer for you, I came this morning to tender my resignation letter personally instead of going through another means of communication. ' She told him calmly.

He studied her for a few seconds. 'You are joking aren't you? ' <em>Oh no...</em> He groaned. <em> Will she actually go to that extreme? </em>

'How do you know I am joking? ' She asked, her expression not changing.

'Are you joking? ' He managed a calm countenance.

Katherine tilted her head from side to side. 'I am actually joking. ' She gave in and smiled.

Kelvin stared at her. <em>How could a lady he could easily replace her post affect him so.</em> He exhaled and took in her appearance.

*-*

'I had to think about it properly, I had to know if I could put up with the responsibilities and challenges. Most importantly I needed to tell God.' She looked away from him. 'I forgot to... '

'Ask the price you have to pay.' He completed knowingly.

She pursed her lips.

He felt disappointed. 'I beg you to erase such mind set when dealing with me. Please...Katherine, you deserve .'

She nodded.

'Instead of having two eyes viewing things, SIC proudly has four eyes. What should go unnoticed by me, shouldn't escape your notice. We are partners, you do understand what I mean? ' He beamed.

'Perfectly.'

'Sometimes, you have act as my representative in going to places and so on. You know what the paper work entails, also administration. Any time you're confused, don't hesitate to call on me.'

'Yes Sir.'

'Those two words... ' Kelvin waved two fingers dismissively. 'You have to drop the mentality of work between boss and secretary. Have you heard of partners who address themselves formally? '

'No.' She grinned mischievously. 'What if I prefer the sir stuff?'

'There is no room for preference, can I call you Kathy? '

Katherine looked at him momentarily as beautiful memories came back to her. 'Can I call you Kel...ooops! I don't mean it.' She placed a palm over her mouth.

Kelvin laughed and stood. 'I call you Kathy, you call me Kel.'

Katherine stood.

'To your office.' He extended his hand once more and she took it.

She was overwhelmed, not even in her most accommodating dream- she, hand in hand with her boss.

He appeared so relaxed like it was their normal routine.

Kelvin loved the feel of her palm, its tenderness like it had never know hardwork which he knew wasn't true.

He opened the door and allowed her enter before he joined.

She gasped. Never seeing an office so feminine yet beautiful and spacious.

The office was painted in cream, her seat was same color but matted with a touch of baby pink, her desk was a glass top with simple metal supports. A book case painted cream and green also acting as a back drop for storage. Comfort pinpoint green stack chairs were at the other side of the desk.

There was a sitting wing, with the sofas green and cream, side tables a centre table and a sound system.

She looked away from Mr Franklin photograph, the President and governor portrait to the paintings  hung and then to the rug that made her want to kick off her shoes and walk bare feet.

'This is beautiful! ' She exclaimed with her eyes sparkling.

He wished he could make the expression permanent because she looked breathtakingly beautiful. 'Get a photograph of you framed so it can be hung. Kathy if there is anything you don't like... '

'No noo... it is perfect, just perfect. ' She head to her seat still mesmerized. Seems like the person who designed the office had her favorite colors in mind.

'Can I sit? '

'Ha... please sit.' She quickly said .

He obeyed and she did same.

The seat was so comfortable, that shr was tempted to close her eyes briefly.

'Here is your appointment letter. Later you go to see the admin director to discuss details of your employment.'

'Thank you Sir.' She collected the letter gladly.

'You will be interviewing the applicants for the post of our secretary and another tomorrow. One of the receptionist will be giving you all the details, CVs inclusive. We have twenty applicants.'

'I will look into it.'

He stood and extended his hand.

Katherine took it. 'Congratulations. I trust you to do fabulous.'

'Thank you.'

He left her.

Katherine opened the letter, read through before walking to the sitting wing of her office to kneel with both hands raised .

'Lord Almighty, my Everything, this is the work You've given to me, I give it back to You. I ask for your guidance, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. ' Her eyes were tightly shut.

+++

12

It was with great difficulty that he restrained himself from covering the distance between them to pull her in his arms. 'Katherine, I am so glad you're back. ' He said instead.

'Oh.' She waved off with a palm. 'I will be sincere with you boss, I am not happy am back.' She kept a straight as she halted in front of him.

'Oh no! ' He groaned. 'When you called the day before yesterday saying you are not resuming till today. I nearly burst into tears because... emmm...' He exhaled deeply.

She narrowed her brows momentarily at him, then looked past him to her desk. 'What is this? ' She walked towards the desk. 'Who disarrayed my desk? '

Kelvin turned knowing the kind of expression he was going to see on her face. 'This is what I was...'

'With all due apologies Sir, which secretary actually disorganized my desk in this way.' She directed her gaze to him.

'Abiola. ' His voice became sober. 'She was excited to take your place but I should have known better. I had to raise my voice and threatened her before she kept her hands to herself and concentrated on a job I did all by myself. God knows how I survived. '

She laughed in remembrance. 'I wouldn't be surprised. '

It was his turn to narrow his brows at her. 'Why?'

'Never mind Sir. ' She pitied him. 'I am sorry about the inconvenience.'

He nodded as he lifted and positioned her stationery case. 'How did things go for the four days?'

' I... ' A smile spread across her lips. 'I had a great time and Mr Franklin taught me a lot and took me everywhere. Thanks for making me go.'

'Sure. Welcome back.' He head for his office with a happiness he himself couldn't explain.

She looked at the empty wrapper of bubble on desk but she still retained her smile as she set to work. She missed him and her office. It was good to be back nonetheless.

+++

***
Her body was on the bed, very very cold. Though her eyes was closed, her face and lemon colored gown was smeared with blood and her braided hair with beads was matted with blood. A towel looking reddish brown cushioned the side of her neck where there was a gash, from which blood had gushed earlier.

Though motionless, her face had peace smothered on it.

Her immediate extended family except the children were seated around the pink and lemon colored spacious bedroom.

Her father, knelt beside her bed with her left cold small palm in the middle of his warm own, silent tears were rolling down his cheek.

Her mother, Basirat was seated on the rugged floor wailing and also shaking both legs, her while her elder sister, Shakirat Ayomide had tears of remembrance in her eyes. Her sister -in- law flanked her other side, she made to wipe her nose but she shook her head.

'Binta... Oh my darling Binta. ' She sobbed. 'How am I... I supposed to know I was planning and forcing your dreams to be cut short... Oh lord! My father! You should warned me.' She glanced at the lifeless body. 'Binta forgive me please... please... Binta please... I... I am sorry ...' She sobbed and coughed.

'I am very sorry for not respecting your wish. Oh God please forgive me please... ' She tightly shut her eyes as her voice trailed off.

<em>My darling please forgive me, I never knew this was coming, I would have done everything to prevent it. You've been so much of an inspiration to me Binta... I would never forgive myself for having a hand in your last minutes on earth pains. I love you so much... you know darling, you know.<em> Habeeb shoulders sagged as he sobbed. 'Oh Binta, my darling Binta. ' He eventually muttered as the first set of tears rolled down his cheeks.

Kafayat Yerima sat as the farthest corner of the room staring at the body of her niece expecting a miracle, a movement of whatever form and as seconds tickled away she felt nauseated.

The family doctor faced the wall, it was a terrible kind of death to him, since she was only a child, a wonderful one. She was always curious and asked questions. She had told him she would be a medical doctor and a writer. His hand touched his face and was not surprised it was wet. He had been called to save her but it was a fast death and gory too, she had died before he arrived.

Her grandma, Aisha stared blankly at the child she held ten minutes after birth. Her tears flowed, three losses in the family within a year was practically unbearable.

Yerima knelt beside his brother -in- law and placed an arm around his shoulder knowing words were useless. <em>Oh Lord have mercy.</em>He prayed in his mind. He was the only one in the room whose face was not stained with tears but he was bleeding inside.

Kafayat hurried out to throw up but everyone was too weak to follow her.

In everybody mind, at the remote part, there was a chilling fear, that was a probability, too frightening to say it aloud.

Maybe... just maybe the spirit of death had decided to pitch its tent in their family.

+++

*-*

Katherine gasped, covered her mouth and read through the alert on her phone again.

The account department had made a mistake, surely they had. She picked the phone on the table and dialled a short code.

After speaking with the secretary, she referred her to the account director.

'You are a good person Katherine, most people won't bother to confirm before enjoying themselves. If a hundred and fifty thousand is what you got, then you needn't panic. Mr Franklin personal called and asked about your salary, he instructed that should be your pay for this month. '

'That is almost double my salary! ' She protested wide eyed.

'Enjoy yourself girl.' He chuckled before hanging up.

Katherine stared into space blankly not knowing if she should laugh or cry.

+++

*-*

'Hello hello, hello hello, hello hello pick up da phone. Hello big brother.' Camilla Sigismund drawled sweetly with a voice laced with happiness.

Kelvin chuckled, same introduction as always. 'How're you doing darling baby sis? ' He closed the book he had been reading.

'How more can I be, how more...?  She paused considering. 'Let me give you an insight to how am doing. I am in my bedroom, with legs crossed under me, beside me is a tray containing cookies and my favorite juice. Before me is the TV and my favorite soap opera is on. And you? '

'Ooops!  That is enough to make me envious but no, I am seated on a vinyl chair facing the pool, I have my favorite fruit wine and mouth-watering popcorns in a saucer. ' He glanced at the sky. 'Above me is nature show of beautiful colours and Oh... ' He inhaled and exhaled deeply. 'I am been caressed by cool sit-here-forever-kind of breeze. '

Camilla laughed. 'I give it to you. What really matters is that we are both enjoying ourselves. '

'How is the united nations Cam? '

'We are so united this period, how is SIC? '

'The company is doing great.'

'There is this guy in my soap that swore he would never date and it seemed so natural to remember you. Please disappoint me, is there a lady now? '

<em>Yes!</em> His mind had screamed to his surprise but he caught himself. 'For now baby sis no one but I give my word before the next time we talk, the coin will be tossed to the other side.' He smiled.

'Beautiful! That is so cool to hear, that has spared you from the 1001 dating tips for men I had planned to read to you so thank the Almighty.'

Had he actually been so convincing that Camilla had let him go for once. 'Mighty God thank you. ' He said heartily.

Camilla chuckled and stretched out her legs. 'Whatever you do, no matter how tight your schedule may be...'

'Don't forget to rest.' He completed with a smile.

'So you still remember Kayla's  words on marble.

'Of course I do not when she ends with that everytime she calls. '

'Take care of you babe and be careful with the guys, remember am a ear you can talk to when confuse.'

'Sure thing. Bye big bro. '

'Bye.' His brows narrowed as he dropped the phone, he had convinced his sister in spite of himself. He had never dated not because he had personal problem nor was he gynophobic.

When he was younger he dated his books and when he grew older he got scared by what he saw and heard about his love ones, his immediate younger sister had suffered two broken relationship and it had left her with hatred for the opposite sex while his best friend had suffered three broken relationship and had swore to had nothing to do with the opposite sex.

He had been there, seen their pains, how they suffered and listened to their wails.

He had not written what should epitomize his kind of woman as most people do but seeing Katherine five days a week had made him realise what he really needed.

+++

*-*
KELVIN was seated at the balcony, a bare leg up on a side table unwrapping various birthday present from all member and non member of staff, including those that came from the production company.

Curiosity had prompted him to open hers first, right in the office and a wide grin had formed on his face and had remained even through out the three hours the company was locked down for his celebration.

Katherine had given him a Timex branded, square faced, black leather quartz wrist watch with silver stainless buckle with double loop. Alongside an authentic brown leather sandals and a beautiful card.

He had discarded the one he had on and strapped the watch, he would have done same for the sandals that made his feet glow saved he was in an English attire.

He had watched her dance so well with Precious at the far end of the conference.

He did dance too surprising all of his employees.

He began to hum as he remembered the quotes she had written in the card to commend him. The eulogy made his day.

+++

*-*

Every seat in the conference room was occupied even the production manager and his secretary were on seat.

Mr Gbenjo, the PM began to speak two minutes after they had settled. 'This is the administrative company and the power point of SIC. I am here to listen to your opinion about our baby product.'

The room was still after he left speaking.

Katherine had something to say but she was not going to rush on, her superiors were present and were not speaking yet. She began a seconds time in her mind.

...<em>five, six, seven, eight, nine....</em>She exhaled and waited before her right hand was raised above her head.

'Yes Katherine. ' He acknowledged with a smile.

Katherine stood. 'I want to talk about a part of production that is sometimes disregarded yet its importance cannot be over emphasized. '

All attention were focused on her.

'For this cause many companies have gone under. Even when they trouble shoot, they are not able to discover what went wrong. Nigerians are people who take to advertisement in such a way that when a promise of heaven on earth is made, they expect it to be so and even more.

Manufacturers get to a point that when they have high consumers, they tend to make a tiny reduction in the quality or quantity or both so they could produce more and increase their profit margin. They forget that every now and then, a local or international substitute for the product get into the market usually at cheaper price, with unique packaging and probably addition or additions as the case maybe.'

Kelvin glanced around to see the expression at the heads present before concentrating once more on his secretary .

'On the other hand, their love ones are call their attention to the new product. ' She beamed.

'We also tend to get so attached to a product that has worked for us. Even as others call their attention to a substitute, their loyalty holds them back, they have their doubt, they are reluctant to stop using that product until a perfect excuse come. A perfect excuse of reduction in quality and quantity.' She said the latter emphatically. '

'We all can testify that a consumer lost might be difficult to regain or never be regained.'

The account director nodded his head remembering some of the products he had stopped using and the PM did same too.

Precious didn't miss all her gestures as she was turned in between being flabbergasted and mesmerized. Before her was a colleague that never cease to amaze her.


The secretary to the PM wrote on a notepad and some of the marketers did same.

'To our product, we should keep every promise made in our various advert to our potential consumers, bearing in mind the damage the littlest dubious trick can wreck. Thank you. ' She concluded and sat.

No one moved, when she became convinced she had blundered, heads began to nod and an applaus broke out until everyone was clapping.

'Let's keep it up for her once more. 'Mr Gbenjo said all in smiles. 'Powerful contribution Katherine. '

'Thank you sir.' She said before she exhaled and lowered her head.

He asked for other contributions and when there was none, he concluded, thanked Katherine once more before he left with Kelvin.

++++

Hmmmm...this actually happens to people. I commend your effort.

Take lot of water, fruits, eat well and rest.

Just like a season movie, love the -previously on, you're indeed talented.

TiffanyJ: lol, how have you been?

I'm very well, thanks for asking.

TemitopeDaniel: Chai! Kogi!!!!!

WELDONE AUNTY FLAKKY. ... I think say I remember ur comment for my thread say stopping at that kind of place is like hanging phone on a someone... abeg continue jurh...

kogi... na yu oh..

Hahaha

toykathy: i pray so. Keep d update coming. Weldone

Thank you darling.

Delis: I guess Mrs Cole might reject Tina's pay back.

I bet she will

(chuckles and burst into laughter ) Terry or whoever, quit staring and get a Kleenex for your nose.
I'll advise you to back off because if you don't know how to pound, you'll pound on your laps.

queenjuli: hey! Kogi or what ever you call yourself if anything happens to rebecca i wont take it likely with you at all

I'm right behind you.

Benjaminbest: finally....iam thru. D story was great.. U tried. Next time wen writing a story follow what ur heart tells u to write...dont change d lane bcus of d comment..cus i followed up.....thumb up

Sweetie I followed the manuscript, I wrote this book just after secondary school and comments didn't sway me, if they had, Osaz would have been alive and wedded to Natasha Williams.

godwah: Eyah am highly sorry

Okay o.

11

Katherine placed her bag down and a
beautifully wrapped parcel on her desk
attracted her attention. She was about to
go ask the security men in the lobby how
it got to her desk when something
glittering caught her eyes.
In gold was written -Happy birthday
Katherine.
She slumped on the nearest chair dazed,
thank goodness she was close to one. For
five seconds, she remained in the same
position as she tried to recall the day and
month and actually it was her birthday!
Who in the world was the sender?
She undid the wrapper. 'Oh myGod!' she
exclaimed, 'Oh-my-God.' She repeated
flabbergasted. On her lap was the newest
brand of phone that was being
advertised. It was a superior brand of his
phone!
She knew instantly who the sender was.
How could he spend so much money to
buy a phone to celebrate a birthday that
she didn't even remember! Not that her
birthday was not special to her, at a point
in her life it meant everything to her but
those period were long gone. Its thought
brought back rush of emotions and
memories that dishevelled her so much.
With unwavering determination long ago,
she had repressed her birth date in such a
way that she treated it like every other
day.
Since she started in Sigismund, so many
things had happened that had put cracks
on a heart that she had choicelessly and
carefully pick its pieces and fix back. This
present was a shocker that threatened to
break her heart . Her eyes blinked
severally and then heaved.
No...no...don't cry. She told herself. You
know that once you start, you won't stop
today.
She stood. How did he know it was her
birthday? The biodata. She answered
immediately. She opened a drawer and
placed the phone. 'God please help me.'
She muttered and head to his office.
She still had an objection.
+++
*-*
She stepped in and he looked from the
book he had been reading. 'Happy
Birthday Katherine. ' He beamed.
'Thank you Sir. ' She smiled. 'I saw the
present and am so taken aback. You really
went out of your way and I am grateful
but I... I don't have cake and drink to
give you. '
He chuckled. 'Don't bother about that,
am glad you love your surprise. '
'Sir I... I don't have anybody to call.' She
blurted out.
Was she actually serious? He was alarmed
but he lowered his gaze, drummed the
pencil he was holding on his desk for few
seconds thoughtfully. 'Mobile phones are
not made for communication only though
it is one of the vitals but not the all in all.
If you have nobody to call, you can call
me, myself and I and Precious also. Four
persons to call is far beyond nobody. ' He
smiled up at her with a raised brow.
Katherine chuckled. 'Thank you Sir.' She
glanced at her wrist watch. 'The meeting
is in a couple of hours, you should be on
your way now because the traffic along
Lagos -Ibadan express way is
unpredictable. '
'True, inform my driver that I will be
ready to go in five minutes. '
'Okay Sir. Excuse me.' As she head out,
she knew she was indebted to him and
would never forget his person.
+++
*-*
'My dad will arrive Nigeria by Sunday and
he will be staying for three days. He is
going to survey generally, attend
coferences, seminars etcetera. His
permanent secretary was sacked after his
last visit. It doesn't make sense
employing a secretary for three days so...
sacrifice. ' Kelvin sipped water and then
entwined his palms on the desk. 'I have
two persons that can serve that purpose,
Precious and you.'
Katherine listened maintaining a blank
facial expression.
'Precious is now an execretory and it is
unfair for me to make her do what she is
above. You are competent for this work,
besides it will provide you with exposure
and experiences. You will be working with the
founder of Sigismund International and
going places with him. You are the only
secretary I know that can work with my
him. He is a no-nonsense-man.'

What! From the DG to the founder, has
he forgotten her root? 'Sir I... I can't... '
'Katherine you can, I believe you can.
Give me no objection and I would take
it.'He held her gaze.

She exhaled.

'By 7 on Monday, my driver will be
waiting here to take you to the
production company. I don't think it is in
you to be nervous, please don't be now.'
He searched her expression hoping he
was not being manipulative.
The plea his voice held had surprising
soothed her. He had believed in her so
far and it had worked out. She nodded,
hopefully this too will work.
'Is that a yes?'
What is wrong with this boss sef, he
doesn't want no but when he get Yes, he
still question it. 'Yes.' She told him.
'Thank you.' He said gleefully, so gleefully
that it made Katherine smile. 'Don't be
scared Katherine, just be yourself. '
She nodded.
It was an opportunity, a rare one to meet
the Visionary of such a great company
that has been established in half of the
world and was the biggest in the country.
She knew so many would give whatever
they can to see him talk more of working
for him and here she was having direct
access for him for three days and she had
even dared to object.
She resolved to doing her best.
+++

*-*

Katherine repeated the paragraph.

'My dear, you repeated that.' Franklin Sigismund observed and glanced at her.

They were in the sitting wing of the permanent office of Franklin, its class was very well beyond that of Kelvin. It represented the status of the owner in a breath taking way and the wall was graced with awards and recognition he had received in Nigeria.

Katherine was seated opposite him holding a letter.

'I want to comment on the paragraph that is why I repeated it so you can understand what I am driving at. The paragraph was centred on plea.' She glanced down at the letter. 'Based on the content of this letter and the organisation it is addressed to, I think a firm  letter will do the magic. ' She expatiated, 'Not that pleas won't work but it is going to give the addressee an impression that we are desperate, that we are begging because there are no other up to standard substitute. They will feel important and will want to put their power to test by extending our feedback date and making us want to plea more, not that
we won't eventually get what we need but it will be delayed. Pleas do the trick most times but not in this case, it should be transposed.'

'I kinda Katherine, it was my Korean secretary that wrote it you can rewrite it.' He said and sipped from the icetea in a tumbler on his side table.

'Yes Sir and I have one observation, more of a contribution. '

'Shoot. ' He said with a smile as one directing a movie and sat back.

'On our tour in the company, I saw samples of the supposed new product, the bar soap. Bar soap are so common in Nigeria that people have a lot to choose from and sometimes the packaging have little or no effect on their choices because they see the tag bar soap on all available choices. Regardless of that, when I looked at those samples in the lab yesterday, something occurred to me, when you see something over and over again though having different content but packaged in the same way, there is a high tendency of still making it a never mind.' She looked at him for an approval.

He nodded.

'We all get curious when we  see an unusual presentation of a thing. Who doesn't appreciate creativity! It is possible to get creative with the soap production, make various shapes...' She raised her hands for descriptive purpose. 'Common shapes like rectangle, square, rhombus, triangle etcetera,  alongside variety of colours. I know all those are possible scientifically with the various coloring pigment alongside precision.' She paused and swallowed.

His eyes did not leave her face yet it caught every movement of her hands.

'Nigerians crave for detergent and use bar soaps when they need to wash native attire. From what the research department discovered, tested and presented, we know this soap has an authentic wiping effect on the toughest stain one can think of. I believe its content can be preserved despite the shapes and colours. Also advertisement, ' She lifted both hands and made a quotation mark sign with both her fingers. 'The people who face the problem of stains are the school children, housewives, unskilled and semiskilled labourers and workers and so on.'

'The advertisement has to have a kind of canopy, a coverage for them all. For instance, students in high school and college are mostly responsible for their washing. In most case, they scrub, wash but some stains just wouldn't come off. It is a known knowledge that they want to look impressive at all time, they are desperate for a soap that works. Hence, their ears are on the ground. '

'The soap is introduced with all its uniqueness, you don't need to soak before washing, you get to chose a preferred color and shape, washing is faster and energy preserving. Mother needn't take clothes off the line to wash a second time. Such news spread like wild fire in harmattan.' Katherine smiled and tilted her head in a kind of what -do -you -think way?

Franklin smiled though thoughtful with his left palm rubbing his cheek. 'You solved the three major priority of a producer- what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce. When I hear something unusual but promising I get to rub my left cheek the way I am doing now.' He grinned.

Katherine chuckled rather shyly.

'My three intended days are over today, make the necessary call and put my flight ticket on hold. Contact the head of research and advertisement department for a meeting for 8 tomorrow. Kelvin... Kelvin can't be around tomorrow, he will be sealing a contract. When we've converged you will be repeating what you just told me. That was the most powerful suggestion I ever heard from a secretary, as a matter of fact, you're the best I ever had. '

She blushed. 'Thank you Sir .'

Franklin stood. 'Meet me downstairs in fifteen minutes let's go for lunch.'

Katherine stood.

'You've been more of a personal assistant than a secretary to me. I'll like you to come to the airport with me tomorrow. More importantly, I will like to see your lovely face when I come back to Nigeria, for my son do not tolerate nonsense. '

'I will do my best sir.' She beamed as she remembered the words of Kelvin. He had told her, his father is a no nonsense man.

He walked out with an aura of confidence and a smile people often wondered if it was plastered since he was always smiling. Kelvin was a chip off his shoulder, just that Kelvin had blue eyes and was taller while his was hazel.

+++

10

'Why is she not picking her calls? ' Kelvin said to himself before lowering himself to a vinyl chair facing the swimming pool, he placed the tumbler of  vine juice he held on a stool close.

He adjusted the earphones and used a finger to redial the number. He sat back anticipating the pick of his call.

'He...Hello.' She coughed.

'Hello Kath...can you hear me? Hello Katherine... '

'Yes... Yes.'

'How do you feel now? '

'Me... I don't actually know....awful ...' She sniffed.

'Oh... ' He sat up. 'Have you had some medications?'

'Ye... Yes.'

'Are you alone?'

'Yes.' She coughed.

'Give me your address, you don't sound fine.'

'No Sir.'

'No? ' He went wide eyed. 'Give me your address, am not coming to eat you.'

'I... I know but no.'

Kelvin sensed her firmness even from her voice. How could a woman be so adamant even in illness?
He exhaled. 'Tell me how do you feel? '

'I feel cold inside but very hot...outside. My extremities are cold.'

He wasn't surprised, she sounded like a hydrophobic who had accidentally fallen into a well little did he know at that moment, she had a wrapper over her and a duvet over her even her head was not exclusive, the hand that was not holding the phone was in her flexed knees.

'Sometimes when we take medications, it is like our condition is aggravated, relief might not be instant but it will eventually come.'

How come you know all that? Was what she would have asked save for her weak state.

'If you can have a warm bath, or drink water, you know like a room temperature kind.'

'O..okay. '

'Are you going to try doing one of those? '

'Will drink water. '

'Okay then, since you don't want to tell me your address, I pray that the good Lord heal you.'

'Amen.' Another surprise, she didn't know he was a believer of God.

'Speedy recovery Katherine, if you change your mind, the phone is on. Goodnight. '

'Thank you...Goodnight. '

He sighed. He thought illness made a person more gullible to attention and care. Why was Katherine so damn different! If a woman could be so firm in weakness, how about in strength?
He could almost laughed as he remembered her walking majestically into his office on the day he wanted to accuse her a second time, he was sure she must have fought so hard not to point her warning finger at him, instead his brows narrowed into a frown.

There was something about her that worried him.

He sighed, stifled a yawn, gulped down his remaining juice. He stood and stretched before heading to the mansion that was proudly his. Somewhere in his mind, he knew she would come back to his thought when he was in bed with a filled belly.

+++
'Good morning Sir.'

'How relief am I hear from you, I have called severally this morning but the phone just rings and rings...'

'I am so sorry, I almost freaked out when I saw fifteen missed calls when I woke. ' She sobered. 'I was able to sleep after this localized throbbing in my head just to me to awake five minutes ago, it is almost eleven! I hope you can pardon me for taking more than I requested but I will be in the office as soon as I can.'

Kelvin chuckled.'Ease up ma'am, I have a conscience I cherish so much. I will see you on Monday.'

'Awww....' She exhaled relieved. 'What other type of boss can one ask of? '

'A replication of me, a twin, triplet, maybe a quadruplet or probably a... '.He began readily

Katherine laughter rang out, throaty at first but soft and infectious later.

He smiled, threw his head back and wished he could see her face. 'I beseech you Katherine, eat lunch today and take your medication.'

She laughed knowing he was referring to her continual refusal to eat lunch.

'I don't need you to laugh, chuckle or even giggle, promise Katherine promise. '

'I promise. '

'And even after? '

'I am not going to promise on that. '

Kelvin laughed for he knew he was not going to get her on that.

'Do rest it all out.'

'I will. God bless you.'

'Thanks. '

'Who is filling in for me? '

'Precious. '

'Do extend my greeting. ' She beamed taking a mental note to buy her something to say Thanks . 'Say hello to her.'

'Sure. ' He wheeled his chair close  to his desk as he began to work on his system.

It was barely three minutes after the call with Katherine ended when the table phone began to ring. He pressed the receive button.

'Sir, the secretary of the research department is here with the comprehensive report you asked for. '

'File it with the rest, I will be asking for them later. Katherine sends a hello to you.'

'Oh! How is she? '

'I believe she will be better. '

'OK Sir. ' She dropped the phone.

'Who is the she? ' The secretary queried with raised fixed eyelashes.

Precious ignored her, collected the report and went ahead to file it.

'Precious na... okay Miss Precious. ' She put a puppy smile. 'Please tell me who the she is .'

'Gossipper! Please carry your smile and questions to another side. I don't have time for aimless talks. The next thing will be Precious said that, that that that is that, it will go from mouth to ear, nooo!' Precious told her in a shooing manner.

'Na the small post they give you de shack you? ' She retorted and hissed.

Precious tipped her blazer by the shoulders. 'I am very proud of who I am and am sure if I exchange my post with you, you will be more than willingly to accept. Get out of my office now! '

She began to leave not prepared for the outburst and knowing the implication if the boss got a wind of their exchange besides she was now her senior colleague.

'Internet without marsk!' She finalized and burst into laughter. She had learnt that from a niece.

++++
*-*
Kelvin was done with his e-mails and it was time to delve into the reports, suddenly, he was brainstormed.

The Biodata, Katherine's specifically, if he had read it, he would have surprised her the night before.

He would really love to know what a surprise could do to her.

He did not know the password to such information, so he punched a number on the intercom to reach Precious.

*-*

'Good morning Miss.' She saw Precious was engrossed in a file. 'I will like to see Mr Sigismund though I have no appointment. I am a foreign investor. '

Precious looked up and her face glowed.'Aaaa! ' She exclaimed and rounded the desk.'It is so good to see you!' She hugged her.

Katherine chuckled at her enthusiasm. 'You make me feel like have been gone for two years.'

Precious laughed even as she felt her face with her palm . 'If I have my way, you will be  gone for two weeks. You still look pale to me. '

'Am I glad you're not the boss? ' She set her bag on the desk and glanced at the adjoining lobby. 'Is Mr Sigismund in? '

'Not yet, he will be attending to some appointment from home.'

'Okay. ' She perched on Precious seat and gave a scrutinizing look at the open file. 'Update me please. '

Before they parted an hour later, Katherine gave her a wrapped package.

+++
*-*

A smile spread across as he sighted her. 'Look who we have here and has taken over already. '

Katherine sprang to her feet. 'Good morning Sir, Welcome, how did the appointments go? '

'Very well. '

She handed him the phone. 'Thank you very much Sir. '

'Welcome back . 'He gave her a card. 'Check my schedule and see if I will be free so I can know how to honor the RSVP. '

'Okay Sir.'

He left for his office with a knowing smile. He had checked the biodata and had learnt all he wanted and more which included a rare coincidence which had motivated him to plan a surprise for her.

+++

*-*
She was in the elevator with both  the secretaries of the advert department and research department respectively .

She was going to sign in a parcel for her boss at the reception.

'How come you've obtained so much favour from the boss, how do you seduce him? ' Secretary to the Ad department, Anat asked.

<em>Wetin person no go hear! </em>Katherine took a lingering look at the questionnaire but made no attempt to reply. <em>Baby faced, with make up that make one want to avoid going close to her for fear of getting stained. Her breasts looked like they were going to pop out any minute.</em>

'Katherine, she is talking to you. ' Abiola, the other secretary seconded.

She glanced at her. <em>The gown she had on was so tight that she wondered how she breathed. </em>'What kind of question was that? ' She decided to speak.

'It doesn't matter what kind of question, just answer. ' Abiola replied

She looked from Abiola to Anat. 'Don't make me believe you're jobless people. ' She saw the light changed and head to the door.

Abiola pulled her arm stopping her. 'And what do you mean by that? ' She demanded with a face that reminded one of a smilie with a scowl.

<em>If they had eyes that did observe they wouldn't have asked their silly question for she would never be in their category though they had same dressing code. '</em>Go for what you need girls not what you want or probably drive you crazy. ' Just then, the door slid opened and she walked head high leaving her earlier companions stunned, so stunned that they remained till the door closed.

+++

*-*

She placed the box on the table. 'The IVs have been arranged in such a way I think will be convenient for you, you can check to see if there are any objections before I call the parties involved to give your approval.'

'Okay...' He looked from the box up to her face. 'Take seat Katherine.'

Katherine obeyed.

'Have you been hearing the gossips that has been directed towards this storey?'

'Yes.' She said after a moment of thought.

'How do you feel? '

Katherine tilted her a side and back before a smile graced her face. 'I am going to answer your question with the lyrics of two Nigerian musicians. ' She glanced at him. 'One said - Let them say, he that has mouth, owns it. The other said -there is nothing one would do that people won't talk, so it better one satisfy one's conscience because you can never satisfy everybody's no matter what one does.'

Kelvin beamed. 'That was very comprehensive. So you listen to music? '

'Sensible ones.'

'That means you dance to sensible music. ' He was inquisitive.

'It depends on your  idea of dance, maybe and maybe not.' She shrugged with a smile.

'That means you're a dancer .' He couldn't help himself despite her diplomacy.

Katherine burst into laughter and her dimples was pronounced. She stood.

'Can I have a yes or no answer please? ' He feigned firmness but it was laced with amusement.

She rolled her eyes. 'You can't have one please, excuse me.' With that she fled.

Kelvin burst into bouts of laughter for his curiosity and the response he got. He stood, picked the box and head for the sitting wing.

There, he reached for a remote for he wanted a music background.

+++

Basirat knocked the door, waited and then opened.

Binta Adam had her legs crossed on the bed, she was clutching a teddy bear and reading a book before her mother came in.

'Hello darling. ' She said as she sat on the bed.

'Hello mum.' She smiled at her.

She glanced at the- sugar girl story back cover her daughter had been reading. 'In a week time, it is going to be birthday Bint, do you know that? ' She beamed.

'Yes mum.' Binta replied with no amusement.

Basirat narrowed her brows, <em>that was strange. </em>She observed her closely since she had expected her to jump excitedly. 'You don't seem happy. '

'I have no cause to be unhappy. ' She placed her teddy on a lying position with its head on a pillow.

'Yes... Yes, you don't have any cause to be sad but Bint you are not showing signs of happiness either. ' Basirat stated.

Binta stood and placed the book she had been reading at the book shelf in her room. 'How? '

Her eyes followed her daughter every movement. 'In time past, you did count down to your birthday, you haven't said the kind of dress you want to wear, where you will like to shop, how you want it celebrated, etcetera. 'She listed knowingly.

'That's because I don't want to celebrate my birthday. ' Binta replied still standing.

'What! ' She went wide eyed shocked but recovered quickly and burst into laughter. She stood, held her hand and led back to seat at the edge of the bed. 'You're joking right?' Basirat faced her. 'I don't need your response. ' She said affirmatively still laughing.

'No am not. ' She shook her head.

'Okay, ' She exhaled. 'Why? '

'I don't know mummy.' She looked up at her mother with sincerity in her eyes.

'Come on Binta, if you want mummy to take that, you have to come up a tangible reason and that was not a tangible one.'

'I don't know but I don't feel like celebrating my birthday and don't want to hear talks of it.' Binta said calmly.

'That is not possible. ' Basirat shook her head.

'Please mummy, please... ' Binta pleaded desperately.

'No darling, that is not possible. ' She firmly and stood. She took a glance at the ceiling fan and took a mental note to arrange to replace it with an air-conditioner.

+++

*-*
Habeeb Adam was on his way to the sitting room and the wife was on way to the bedroom when they bumped into each other.

'Can't you for once look at where you are going to? ' He said sharply, his face contorted by the smirk it held.

'And you seer, couldn't you have avoided the accident since you see it all.' She retorted, sizing him up with her eyes.

Habeeb owned a film production company and his wife, one of the highest paid actress in Africa.

They both burst into laughter.

'What did Binta say?' He managed in between bouts of laughter.

'She said she don't want to celebrate.'

'What! ' He glared at her momentarily. 'Are you for real? '

'Yea Sweet.'

'What reason did she give? '

'No reason just don't feel like celebrating and don't want to hear talks about it.'

He went from being wide-eyed to chuckling within seconds. 'What do my eleven year old angel know about feelings?'

'Discover for yourself Love.'

'Hmmmm...' He muttered thoughtfully.

+++