₦airaland Forum

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&nbsp; 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.

+++

9

'Katherine, news just reach me that ten thousand naira is missing from the managing director's office and that you are also the last person to enter his office. What can you say about that? ' Kelvin sipped from his mug of water.

'What I can say about being the last person to enter his office, that I don't know of.' She met his gaze. 'All I know is that he asked me to drop a file in his office, so I dropped it on the desk and left. '

'How about the ten thousand? ' Kelvin focused his striking eyes on her.

Katherine gave a short laugh. 'How am I suppose to know if I walked in, dropped the file on his desk and left?' She raised a hand in front of her emphatically, 'If I did that, how am I supposed to know if there was a million naira or whatever in his office. ' She couldn't help the sarcasm in her voice.

His voice was calm. 'You can confide in me, you can tell me about it. This act can mar all I cherish about you. I beg you to confide in me before it is too late.'
He entwined his palms on his desk.

'This is ridiculous!' Katherine shook her head, partly in disbelief and partly trying to keep calm. 'Katherine Sylvester is not desperate, even if I am, ten thousand cannot calm my desperation talk more of solving it.'

Kelvin shrugged. 'I don't think you understand the extent of allegation Katherine, you're the chief suspect. '

Katherine closed her momentarily before exhaling. 'With all due respect Sir, I can't sit through this conversation anymore,' She stood  I'll implore you  to go ahead to do whatever is in the company constitution for such offense. Excuse me.' She left.

He glared at the closed door not believing what he just heard. <em>Was she void of emotions? How could she be so calm? She had even encouraged him to take drastic measure. </em>
He massaged his brows knowing he was in a fix. Everyone was watching, most unhappy about his decision that uplifted her despite the fact none had dare confront him.

Something propelled him to glance at the wall in which the framed photograph  of his father hung, following was that of Jesus with opened arms.

He closed his eyes and asked for guidance from the all Knowing Being. He didn't want to tamper with anybody's emotion.

+++
*-*
She was writing on a note pad when he came in from his office to hers. She didn't look up  though she sensed his presence.

He stood at the back of one of the chairs. 'Katherine, I am sorry about accusing you yesterday, the MD just called me that he found the money.'

She nodded halting her pen momentarily.

'Aren't you going to say anything? '

Katherine shook her head and continued writing once more.

How unnerving and powerless she did made him feel, no one had left him ever confused.
He strode out, she had been his secretary for 3months since Precious became an execretary and left for her office. He had never been able to read her expression correctly.

He knew there was something about her but the more he tried to find out, the more withdrawn she became.
+++
*-*
The MD called wanting to speak to the director general exactly 2 weeks after she was accused of theft and three hours after she had gone to his office to drop a report.

Now he was calling like he had done the other day .

She transferred the call but didn't drop the phone.

There had been another theft and she was a suspect.

When the call ended, she gave a humorless laughter. Then for ten minutes, she tapped her feet as she waited for her boss to take his decision. By the time he summoned her to his office, she was furious.

Katherine entered his office.

'Kat... ' He was interrupted.

'I know what you are going to say, there have been yet another theft and I am a suspect. ' She narrowed her brows.

He glared at her.

'I am sick and tired of all these. I have never being so humiliated and insulted all my life! What have I done so wrong? Who have I offended that I can't even get a breathing space? I sincerely can't take this anymore.' She expressed breathlessly. 'I can't work in a place where I can't have peace of mind, where everybody including my boss doesn't trust me.' She exhaled. 'You can call the police, torture me or whatever but I won't sit through another interrogation. '

He had sat back and watched her, seen a rare part of her. She had let go and he had seen the sparkles in her eyes though it was of anger . 'When you rage, there a unique beauty that radiates on your face. '

Caught unawares, she paled like she had been burnt. For a moment she was lost before she scrambled out of the office without excusing herself.

Was it tears he had seen? He sighed before he allowed his chair rock in deep thoughts . He was going to get to bottom of the whole mystery before he lose one of his best secretary so far.

Katherine slammed the rest room door close and burst into tears. 'God... Why can't I have peace? Why.. ' She sobbed and her whole body shook. She sneezed twice and her nose began to weep.

Kelvin came out to head for the MD 's office but Katherine was no where in sight.

He felt a slight headache as he approached the elevator.

*
When he came in, Katherine head was on her desk.
He knew nothing he would say would make the situation better besides he didn't know what mood she was in and was not a specialist in mood management. So he head for his office with a suspect in mind and a plan.

*

For the rest of that Friday, she couldn't eat nor do anything, she just wept till she was sore and drifted to sleep.

Thanks goodness the next day was a work free day because  she had woke up from the edge of the bed with frontal headache, cracked voice and swollen eyes.

+++
*-*
The conference room was the smallest
they had in the company, despite the fact
that the DG, Executive director, head of
every departments, MD, Execretary and
five other secretaries were present with
Katherine inclusive , there still few seat
unoccupied. They were seated around
polished hexagonal table.
'Precious could you please exchange seat
with Katherine? ' He smiled at Precious.
She smiled back and left her seat to sit
beside Yemisi.
Silence returned to the table. Each
oblivious to the reason for the gathering.
'I welcome you all to this meeting that is
the first of its kind and would be the last
too. ' He had allowed a minute to prevail
before he began.
Kelvin scanned their faces. 'The matter at
hand is that of the incident of the missing
money and the accusations. This issue will
be settled once and for all. ' He paused
momentarily. 'First, I blamed the MD for
keeping such amount of money in his
office but I realise that there are some
transactions he does do for the company
besides, I don't see a reason why we all
can't keep a thing in the privacy of our
offices and still meet it there.'
Most of the tops present nodded.
Somehow she had prepared herself for
the worst, she suspected the reason for
the meeting when her boss inform her to
inform the cleaning department and listed
those who she was to tell are to
participate. <em>Serenity... calmness...</em>
<em>peace... silence...quietness.</em> She kept
repeating those words in her mind to
keep her emotions in check even as she
listened.
'I don't want such situation at all in my
company. ' He frowned as he directed his
gaze to Yemisi. 'Yemisi, what do you know
about the cases of the missing money?'
She blanched as they all directed their
attention to her.
'I ...I don't know anything about it Sir.'
'What relationship did you have with
Patrick, our former account director? '
Kelvin asked more calmly.
'The AD-secretary relationship. ' She
answered calmly recovering quickly.
'What again? '
'Nothing more Sir.'
'Are you sure nothing more? '
'Yes Sir.' She nodded before the reply.
The conference room was becoming like a
court session and that got everyone alert.
'Good, but am sure you can give
confession.' He beamed infectiously.
'Confessions? ' Yemisi went wide eyed.
'What confession? ' Her brows narrowed
confused.
'The missing money, the relationship you
have with Patrick Sunday. ' He
expantiated as he placed his palms
together on the table.
Katherine looked from her boss to Yemisi.
She didn't think Yemisi would go so far...
so far to implicate her.
'With all due respect Sir, I don't
understand what you are talking about.'
With a smile lingering on his lips, he held
her gaze briefly. 'I like you because you
are a good game player. Unfortunately,
you play the game as it comes without
knowing the rules of the game.' He
glanced around. 'Those that are good
game players can bare me witness that
your skills and experience in a game
might be insignificant in another. '
Most nodded including Precious.
'I am afraid girl, your method of playing is
not going to help you one bit.'
'Please Sir, I don't know what you're
talking about.' Yemisi was almost close to
tears.
'I can also bet you wouldn't until the
torturing by the members of the police
force begin.' His voice was icy.
That made some of the persons at the
table to exchange glances.
'Yeh-police! ' She opened palms to plea.
'Please Sir, I swear... I haven't done
anything.'
Some of the ladies present were touched
but who dared to challenge the DG.
'I hate lies Yemisi! You understand me I -
hate -lies! ' He was on his feet angrily.
'You alone know what is good for you, one
more lie from that mouth of yours and
you will be receiving it hot. On your feet!
'
All of them were flabbergasted, before
them was a part of their boss they never
knew existed. Yemisi hurried to her feet
trembling.
'You have been sleeping with Patrick.'
'No... no Sir.' She glanced at him and the
threat his face held made her rethink.
'Yes Sir.'
Some mouths opened and closed.
'For how long? '
She blanched like someone who was
about to suffer cardiac arrest. 'Emmm... I
can't remember.'
Katherine just watched the drama unfold
with a blank expression.
'Why did you have an objection when I
told you to address the termination of
appointment letter and Why the rudeness
to Katherine? '
'Objection? I agreed... with... ermm...'
Her cold palm touched her neck
nervously. 'I saw Katherine as a threat, I
didn't like her .' She blurted.
Precious rolled her eyes before shaking
her head.
He glanced at Katherine but the
expression on her face remained. 'What
threat?should be my next question but I
already know the answer. Since you are
sleeping together, maybe the need to
plan a meeting venue...is that the reason
Patrick calls almost three times on daily
basis?'
Yemisi was so shocked that she became
tongue tied. She just stared.

Everyone stared at her expecting answers.

'Yemisi, did you get my question? '

'Yes...Yes Sir.' She stammered swinging her hands like one who has just dipped hands into a bowl containing pepper. 'Emmm...I... I... '

'Seems you are on the spot, I am going to help you. ' He smiled. 'Is it because he want to know what is going on, who is promoted, how to get back at his enemies or both of your enemies?

Yemisi shook her head quickly. 'No... no... no.'

Most of them were surprised at the unveil of the secret, the secretaries who could fit in the shoes of Yemisi in the sleeping part were grateful they were not victims. The boss they were lusting after, they never knew he could be so ruthless in asking questions.

'I can play a couple of recorded.phone conversations.'

'It is true.'

'Which is true? '

'Everything is true.'

'Splendid! ' He exclaimed gleefully. 'To the missing money, is there is a link between the two cases? '

'Yes.'

'You did the stealing? '

'Yes.'

'What! ' The MD exclaimed and looked at Katherine with so much apology placed in a facial expression.

'Why did you return the first money? '

'So that everyone will think the accused repented. '

'And the second? '

'To put her into trouble. '

'Jesus Christ! Yemisi, what are you thinking? To put an innocent into trouble! ' The MD made to stand angrily.

'Calm down MD, I am going to give you time to give her a piece of you. Don't you want your money back? '

That seems to douse his anger as he settled back into his seat.

'How about the thirty thousand? '

'Sir... I... I... 'She sobbed. 'I gave it to Mr Patrick yesterday. '

'Huh! ' He was surprised for the first time that day.

'Madam what is your share in it? ' The executive director just a couple of years older than Kelvin said with a voice laced with sarcasm.

'Fifteen thousand. '

'The video camera in this conference room are on, hence, this meeting is recorded for future reference and punishment to those who have the guts to repeat this kind of thing. The technical department have been a wonderful help in trashing out this issue. ' His gaze swept over them. 'This same way Yemisi was fished out is the same way those perpetuating evil will be fished out but then, the consequence will be grave. ' He stood. 'Precious go out and usher the police in.

She obeyed.

Yemisi burst into tears. 'I am sorry Sir... please... I am sorry everyone.... please help me beg the boss.'

'Channel your apology first to Katherine. For once, I permit you to spread the word around. ' He followed the three police officer as they led her away.

They began to leave one after the other.

The MD stood beside her seat. 'The one thing I don't appreciate in life is false accusation. I am sorry for doing that to you. '

Katherine nodded.

'Please am sorry. ' He apologized once more before leaving.

Precious placed a hand on her shoulder standing behind her. 'Katherine, it's better the truth has prevailed, it is better people have a different perceptive about you, it is better you're not suffering for what you did not do. I trust everything to be fine once more. '

'Thank you.' She looked up and smiled.

Precious squeezed her shoulder lightly before leaving.

Katherine folded her arms and stared into space. <em>Life ...so unpredictable, and her life, why was is that when everything seem to be going on well, smooth, something comes up and blows everything into thin air, it just happen everytime. Was it her destiny? </em>She exhaled.
<em>Confession most time, it was very good so one can know what people think and feel about one, what extent they can go in hurting whom they despised. Hmmmm...Why can't just some people  respect others decision? </em>

'Excuse me.' The security officer said for the second time.

She blinked back to reality and it appeared the conference room was bigger because everyone had left. She stood and head for the exit door.

+++
*-*
She stepped out of the elevator and lurched. Her vision blurred and  she held onto the  rail.

She waited with eyes closed and took in deep breaths.

Ten minutes later,

Katherine knocked on the door.

'Step in. '

Kelvin watched her approach still attending to the call on his mobile phone. 'That was a huge step... when everything is set, I will come....' He laughed and gestured for her seat. 'Okay... of course. Bye.'

'Yes Katherine. ' He sat up.

'I have something to tell you Sir .'

'Do I owe you an apology? ' He felt a tinge of guilt at the way she had paled.

'No Sir. I am rather grateful for your expertise.'

'What do you want to tell me? ' He narrowed his brows.

'I don't feel well, please can I can take the rest of the day off? '

He did see it, she appeared emaciated and her cornea had been stained red. 'Is staying off going to make you better or you go to the clinic? '

'No to your latter question. '

'Okay then, give me your mobile number so I can call you later. '

'I don't have one Sir.'

He stared at her in disbelief but something about her facial expression told him she was serious besides he couldn't remember seeing her with any.

He shrugged. 'I really need to call for I don't like what am seeing of you. I would have rather you see a doctor. '

Katherine shook her head.

'I have to do something else then. ' He said thoughtfully before he opened one of the drawers and brought out a SIM card. 'I haven't used this nor give the number out.' He picked the phone on the table, removed its SIM and replaced it without a glance at Katherine whose brows was narrowed with a worried frown.

'Sir, you don't have to do all that, giving me your permission is enough. '

He looked at the screen of the phone as it came on. 'This is not going to be another conference session Katherine, I won't take an objection. '

She pouted her lips even as she collected the phone and Kelvin almost asked her if she was the last child. He chuckled instead.

He saw her off to the door, 'Do I ask one of the driver to take you home. '

She shook her head.

'You're being overly dramatic, in a way I contributed to whatever health challenge you are experiencing. After all, I accused you directly. '

'You did what you should have done. '

He stepped ahead and opened the door. 'I'll talk to you later and I need you to know that never for once did my trust in you dwindled. '

'Thank you.' She said and smiled.

Kelvin closed the door after her and was glad he was able to get a smile from her.

++++
*-*

When she got to the gate, Abbey had seen her countenance and knew she was under the weather. The news had spread fast.

He hailed a cab for her and paid despite her objection.

<strong>+++</strong>

Take your time dearie.

Dear esteem readers, I will like to know your favorite part and what you've learnt.

crislyn: God bless u so much dear for ds inspiring piece!

And bless you real good for encouraging me with your words.

godwah: Wao what a lovely story and a nice write up dt i 4get 2 eat until i reach d end by 12:43am

And you didn't send me the food.
Thanks for reading.

kingphilip: sure the marriage is gonna go through some trying times but sure they'll be able to scale through it unscathed

Yea, just like Tara and Jordan's

Hameenat94: Continue... Datx d spirit!!!!

Thank you.

toykathy: Sits comfortably, dis is more interestin than i thought. Make suspense no come kill pesin o

Hmmm... e no fit kill you.

Hurrah!!

Huh...!

How sad...

This is Splendid T Dan.

Rachael give your sis a breather.
You're doing great Maama.

Rachael give your sis a breather.

toykathy: dnt worry abt me, i'm fully covered. #winks#
million kisses 4u love.

Muuaah!

kingphilip: wow queen you are really killing it
ride on jare... no mind me i've lost touch with soothing words this days... please do u know where i can get them back?

Look deep inside, it's in you.

TemitopeDaniel: following. Job weldone ere!

Thanks Sweetie.

boladex1: Well done please post regularly to reach the point u were before crash

I'll try

winie: I shed some tears of joy! Hmmm. The blessings of GOD maketh rich indeed.... Weldon Ma.

I did shed some tears in the course of writing. That's why He is God.

winie: I shed some tears of joy! Hmmm. The blessings of GOD maketh rich indeed.... Weldon Ma.

I did shed some tears in the course of writing

toykathy: Hmmm, such a happy ending. Well done Queenxter, u ve done well. Rushes out of thread to GTG

Easy girlie, don't bump into the palacial guards at GTG 's gate

TemitopeDaniel: D 9 T Y 7

Where z uu??

Where is z u na?

8

<em>What a relief! </em>Katherine almost screamed as she stepped past the huge gate. She let out a heave of relief. She should have known and took a cab from home irregardless of the cost. She was sure that was nothing compared to the embarrassment she got on her way to work.

The embarrassment, unnecessary politeness and invitation to bus chat. To top it, two guys had offered to pay her bus fare and asked for a phone number she didn't even have.

'Katherine.'

She turned in the direction of the voice.

'Katherine you're actually the one, I thought I was seeing things!'

'Good morning Sir.' She smiled at Mr Sayo understanding his surprise, 'I meant to tell you on Thursday but you were in a meeting. I am now an appointed secretary. '

'Hey,' He beamed. 'Congratulations child, you look so beautiful. '

'Thank you Sir. ' She appreciated.

'I'll send up a congratulatory gift to you later in day.'

Katherine nodded with a smile and made to continue her strides when she took a glance at the security office.

An usual number of them were standing  in front and it was just few minutes before seven but then she stared and agaped mouth began to close and look away in embarrassment.

The security guy who had asked Mr Sayo about her on the day she sought employment, Abbey approached her hastily as if walking normally was going to make him change his mind.

He had wooed her once and admired her silently after being politely turned down. 'Emmm....Katherine.' He easily caught up with her. 'I don't know what you think of me but I... I want to advise you.'

She honored him and halt to listen.

'I don't think you need the cleaning nor the secretaring job, the form of the most beautiful girl in Nigeria is on sale, you should get one for yourself. I can give you half of the money of the form.' He met her gaze. 'You don't need the wand of a fairy god mother for everything to fall in place. You are qualified.'

She grinned. 'I really appreciate you looking out for me Abbey but you know what am going to say.'

'I know.' He nodded. 'Your beauty beyond all have set my eyes on even in screen.' That said, he left more hastily than he had come.

Katherine watched the departing figure momentarily before heading to her destination.

She sneezed and then remembered a superstitious belief that <em>sneezing can be prompted when one name is being mentioned or discussed about.</em> She reached for a hanky with a smile knowing she was going to be the major source of gossip.

+++
*-*

'Good morning Sir.' She smiled charmingly on her feet as Kelvin strode in white shirt and black pant trousers almost looking like a sailor with black shoes. He held a brief case which he always refuse help with.

'Good morning, hope we have a Precious today. ' He beamed.

'Sure.' She returned affirmatively.

He glanced around. 'Where is SI's newest secre...? '

She emerged from the lobby in an animal print blazer over black sleeveless blouse and pencil skirt with cream 3inches high shoes. She had her name tag on just below Where the customized signature of the company was. Her hair was half parted in a slant,wrapped around and pinned with matching color of  hair clips, curled strand graced a side of her face.

'Oh -my- God! ' Precious exclaimed before glancing at Kelvin. <em>Was he seeing what was before her?</em>

'Good morning  Sir, good morning Precious. ' She smiled revealing dimples on her cheeks.

'Good morning Katherine.' He had been mesmerized at the transformation but was quick to recover. Position and Authority was all about control and he did have it in abundance. 'Ready to take new challenges?'

'Yes Sir.'

'Welcome on board then, you look splendid. ' That said, he held for his office.

'Thank you.' She called after him.

'Wow! ' Precious looked her over from head to toes taking in every detail of her physical appearance. 'You look so... so amazing! Tell me how many admirers did you get on your way here. '

Katherine rolled her eyes before shaking her head.

'Wait! ' She covered the distance between them. 'Is that your natural hair? ' She touched it slightly. 'Ha, no wonder you've been covering your hair! '

'Precious leave me alone jare. ' She said dismissively  before rounded the desk to sit.

'It's unfair na, what people like us are looking for.' Precious continued unperturbed.

'Precious! ' She chided.

Precious halt and glared at her. <em> is it now wrong to admire?</em>

Katherine couldn't help but chuckle at her expression.

+++

Katherine was reading the guide book Precious had gotten for her from the company's library when Kelvin entered from his office.

'How has it been? '

'Smooth. ' She looked up from the book.

'And Precious? '

'Just left for lunch.'

'What are you still waiting for? '

'I will pass.'

'Alright.' He walked away.

A couple of minutes Later, one of the security officers delivered a can coke and mince pie courtesy of Mr Sayo.

After thanking him profusely, she placed it in her bag.


Ten minutes Later, Prrcious came back with a nylon. 'Katherine, you should have come to the cafeteria, the admin director bought this for all the secretaries. ' She placed the nylon in front of her. 'I got this for you. '

'That is so considerate of you, thank you.' She smiled up at her.

'Next time you should join me.' She slumped into her seat.

'I won't. '

Precious sat back on her seat. 'Don't tell me you there already. ' Her gaze was fixed where Katherine had a finger in between the book.

'I am.'

'So fast, the opposite of me. ' She glanced at the table clock. 'I will nap for fifteen minutes. '

'Provided you don't snore.' Katherine stood to held for the rest room.

Precious shot a warning gaze at Katherine. 'I will catch you.' She closed her eyes.

+++
*-*
'Sir, it is like a puzzle to me that a cleaner could know so much.' Precious was seated in the Kelvin's office. 'If am to be honest, I will say there is nothing she learnt from me instead I have learnt from her. When I speak, she just listen to me as if what am saying was new, watch me practise and when I give her opportunity, I get to raise my brows astonished for she does it perfectly. Severally I was compelled to ask her if she had ever done Secretariat studies or a school that does such.'

'And what she did say? '

Precious chuckled. 'Katherine said that she had never seen the four walls of a secretarial school talk more of entering one.'

Kelvin laughed. 'So she is hilarious.'

'Sometimes but she barely talks.' Precious expressed. 'The only problem I have with her is that she has never gone for lunch.'

'You should buy for her then.'

'She won't accept, she had made that very clear.'

Kelvin shrugged not having a solution to that.

'Sir, you were right when you told her she was well able.' Precious beamed.

'Well... ' He drummed his fingers on his desk momentarily. 'That was a satisfactory report I suppose she can move on.'

'Yes Sir.'

'I have something for you two for making things very easy for so far so good when you get back from the account department.'

'Okay Sir.' Precious said gleefully before excusing herself.

Kelvin stood crossed to the minifridge in the sitting wing of his office to pour himself an orange flavored yoghurt.

+++

*-*
'I... I need your prayers Katherine. ' They were in the elevator having collected their payslips.

'Is there a problem? ' Katherine searched her expression.

'My responsibility went to the sky last weekend. You know that early next month, the best secretary in SI will be appointed an execretary. I need the job and the extra cash.' She had lost her mum at an early age, her father had suffered partial stroke a year back and couldn't perform active service. He lost his job and Precious had to cater for him and her 3younger brothers and sister, being the first.
Katherine took her hand as they walked out of the elevator. 'Do your best and may God crown that effort with good success.'

'Amen.' She claimed and then a smile spread over the frown that had etched her face.

'What? ' She looked away from her face to adjust two potted plant.

'The boss... he has something for us.' She announced gleefully before pulling her towards his wing.


*
'There! ' He placed the two paper bags containing 3litres of fruit juice and tin biscuits each on the center table.

'Thank you very much. This is quite generous of you Sir.'

He glanced at her, almost directly behind Precious. He saw her reluctance.

Precious stepped on the rug to view the content of the paper bag. 'Oooops! ' Her eyes gleamed in excitement. ' Thank you very much.'

'You're Welcome. '

Katherine followed her cue and stepped forward. 'Thank you very much Sir.'

'Welcome. ' He answered.

They each picked their paper bags and made to leave.

'Katherine could your please stay back for a minute? '

In spite of the politeness, her spirit sank.

Precious left the office.

She turned towards his direction with lowered gaze.

'I don't force people to accept things I give out willingly. If you don't want it, you can reject it instead of putting up an unreal act or going with the crowd. ' Having expressed himself, he felt pained. <em>Why couldn't she just let go and be free?<em> Why was she different? </em>
</em>

'I'm... I'm sorry Sir.' She felt the disappointment portrayed in his voice.

'Do you want to return it? '

'No Sir.' She glanced at his face but he didn't look angry. 'I am sorry. '

'It is okay Katherine.' He felt moved to sit her and find out Why she was antisocial but he feared her rejection.

She excused herself. When she got out, She exhaled relieved.

+++

Precious couldn't help but jump in the elevator unable to contain her elation.<em>what a dream come true!</em>

'Take it easy ma'am, you're in the elevator. ' Katherine advised grinning.

'Easy is not in my dictionary right now.' She made to do an edo dance using the envelope in her hand to improvise handkerchief.

Katherine burst into laughter.

'Congratulations girl. '

'Thanks for your prayers and all.' She reached out and gave her a bear hug.

Precious got out of the elevator first, jumped and twirled.

Kelvin slowed his pace and eventually halt so he won't bump into her. 'That's the spirit girl! '

Precious froze. 'Oh... emmm...Sir... I'm... ' She went wide eyed in embarrassment.

'Congratulations. ' He walked away.

Katherine who had witnessed all, burst into stifled laughter.

+++

7
Katherine entered the comfort station
and closed the door. It was clean and as
she rested on the door, she glanced at
her reflection.
All guard let loose. 'Oh God... 'was all she
managed before bursting into tears.
Can things just go on smoothly with her
as with others.
+++
Kelvin waited patiently for him to begin
the conversation.
'You know you can't do this to me Mr
Sigismund, not after I have given my best
to this company. ' Patrick said with eyes
like that of a hungry puppy whose meal
had been kept high above reach.
'An extra pinch of salt can spoil a good
meal and render it distasteful. I didn't do
anything to you, you just added that extra
pinch of sand to your work over the
years. ' Kelvin explained rocking his chair.
'She insulted me! ' He blurted.
'Action and reaction are equal and
opposite. No sane being will insult his or
boss just like that. let's be realistic, what
you did was wrong. It is an act of
immaturity and punishable in my book.'
'But ...' He began incoherently.
Kelvin stood. 'Your service so far is highly
appreciated. You may see the admin
director now.' He said with a note of
finality.
Patrick left the office as tears welled his
eyes, what was he going to tell his family?
Where was he going to start from? Where
was he going to start from after loosing
employment in one of the best
employees friendliest in the country.
He should have know the most beautiful
ones usually pose more problem, but
hers had nailed him. His wife was never
going to forgive him if he got wind of the
details.
Kelvin settled in his seat and called
Precious to know of her welfare but she
hadn't been able to get through to her.
+++
*-*
'Come on Katherine, I don't see the part
of a cleaner, is that a surprise? ' Kelvin
asked and dropped the company
customized fountain pen he had been
holding on the closed file before him.
She looked at him for a long while before
she replied. 'No.'
'Every child always have a dream one
time or the other of being somebody in
life and there is a point of realization. I
think that should be happening to you.'
He wheeled his chair close to the desk
and studied her expression. 'Don't tell
me it was to be a cleaner. '
'It wasn't and I had a dream.' She replied
flatly.
Strange, was the word on his mind. He
could hardly read from her facial display
nor voice since It's intensity and
amplitude remained. 'What happened? '
'I have to turn down that question, Why?
No comment and am sorry Sir. ' She said
simply.
He looked at her for a very long time
thoughtfully.
This was the first genuine care she was
getting and she refused to be carried
away instead she braced for what was
coming.
When she was about to begin reciting in
her mind the states of the country and
their capital to pass time, he spoke. 'Since
we agreed there is no part of a cleaner in
you. I came up with something. ' He
pressed a button on a phone on the
table. 'Precious come in with it.' He
looked at her and smiled. 'Sometimes,
problem and disappointment usually turn
to be blessing in disguise. '
Katherine agreed but didn't believe it
wholeheartedly.
A knock at the door and Precious came
in.
She looked from the DG to his secretary
who held an envelope.
'Give it to her.' He instructed his
secretary.
She obeyed.
'Open it.' He told her.
Her heart beat quickened as she opened
the letter.
'Letter of appointment as a secretary. '
She muttered after thirty seconds with
eyes still on the paper.
They both nodded when she eventually
looked up. 'What have I done to deserve
this? ' She asked surprised and directed
her gaze to the director.
'Saying no to what is worth saying no to,
that brought you to my notice in the first
place. ' He told her. 'You may not
understand the impact of your decision to
stand out will have on this company but
you've saved it, in a way . ' Kelvin told
her. 'For me and what have seen of you,
you're able or to elaborate it well, well
able to be a secretary. You will be
learning from Precious, she is one of the
best.'
'Thank you Sir.' Precious beamed.
'You're going to work hand in hand.with
her for the main time. ' Kelvin
expantiated.
Katherine closed her eyes momentarily
and swallowed hard. 'This is a surprise
that …that... ' She looked at him.
He saw pain, repressed pain in her eyes.
'This is unexpected and considering the
level of transit. ' She chuckled and
bobbed her head from side to side. 'I
don't know to express my appreciation,
thank you so much Sir but I will be
pleased to know the price I have to pay. '
'That's brilliant Katherine, don't prove me
wrong by being diligent and faithful. '
She nodded her head thoughtfully. 'Sir,
can Precious please excuse us?'
'Thank you Precious. '
She excused them.
'Diligence and faithfulness, Yes but I want
to know the main price I have to pay.'
Her eyes didn't leave his.
He met her gaze and for a moment, he
was lost and then he blinked thoughtfully.
It dawned on him and he almost burst
out laughing. 'I am a pot that chastise a
kettle for being black . I am giving you
this opportunity from the conviction I
have and the sincerity of my heart. '
Silence prevailed as Katherine glanced
back at the letter. 'I will take the post,
Thank you very much Sir.' She knelt.
'No …no …please stand already. ' He
stood. 'Pick your uniform from the
clothing department, take the rest of the
week off and resume on Monday. '
'Thank you.' She gave a faint smile.
Kelvin nodded and she left.
He remained on his feet thoughtfully, he
had seen that lack of trust and pain in her
eyes.
Precious rounded her desk to meet her.
'Are you taking the job? ' She asked
anxiously.
She had never anyone so selfless. 'Yes
Precious. '
'Yes! ' Precious hugged her. She and her
boss had sat to decide the plan and she
was glad it worked. 'I'll shift my chair and
move Yours close so I could start feeling
you before Monday! ' She grinned.
Katherine smiled and took both hands in
hers. 'You know what Precious? '
'What? ' She was still smiling.
'If you keep up with your behaviour, you
will go places.'
'I know, Thanks. I am happy for you.'
'Thank you.'
Precious quickly peeped at the lobby
leading to the DG'S office before taking
Katherine's hand. 'Let me see you off to
the elevator. '
+++
*-*
Katherine knew she ought to be
swimming in happiness. For the love of
raspberries! How many cleaners were
turned secretaries? Not mere secretary
but to the very boss!
She shook her head nothing was going to
put the thrill in her. She had lost count of
the number of arms of flesh that had
failed her long time.
When she told the head cleaner, she had
given her all her blessings and added she
was going to miss her. She smiled in
remembrance. She had not seen the
assistant chief security officer, Mr Sayo
that had ushered into the waters of the
company. Hence, she hadn't told him.
They had been the closest to her.
This appointment was baby steps to what
she aspired to achieve. She looked
forward to Monday as she gathered the
mass of her jet black into the hair net.
She sat up on the bed and brought her
Bible close.
All she wanted was God's will. She was
going to pray for her DG so things don't
get sour and for grace in her new place of
assignment .
She closed her eyes and searched her
mind for the best worship song.
+++

*-*
Aisha hit the brass knocker. 'Kafee, can I
come in? '
'Yes mum.' Kafayat made to grab tissue
to wipe her face but wasn't fast enough.
Her mother entered and noticed the
tears. 'Sweetheart …haba. ' She sat on
the bed. 'What is wrong? '
She wiped her tears with her palms.
'Nothing mum.'
'How can you be crying and say nothing is
wrong. ' Worry creased her brows.
'Do you know mum that …' She sniffed.
'Dad and I made plans for his birthday
celebration …that should have hold
today. ' She sobbed
Tears ran down Aisha's face as she pulled
Kafayat close into an embrace.
She had a
good cry at the early hours of the day
when she had woken up with the
knowledge and the immediate emptiness
that set in. Her dearly beloved husband was no more.

+++

I'm sorry everyone, my last post was a mistake.

Hope they have enough fire extinguishers because it's gonna blaze hot.

Poor Tobi,
wonderful work T Dan and congratulations on hitting FP.

Hmmm... this Rachael sef.

kingphilip: queen u r mixing it up here please seems you'll delete the 2nd one because it's centered on fighting back n not on
nice one dear I admire ur courage

Oh no... how do I delete it?

kingphilip: I wouldn't have said it any beta

queen take it as if both of us said it
BTW tnx for not been discouraged for lack of encouragement and 2 pence... wishing u greater things in ur future endeavors

God bless you darling.

zinylizzy: Beautiful!!! simply beautiful. thanks luv

You're so welcome.

gennysq: Awwwwwn! So wonderful! A touching buh happy ending
U nailed it Queenxstar d Great. Rounds of Applause to ya

Thank you dear, you're far too kind.