₦airaland Forum

Captivating

Thanks for your presence Bola and Doris.

Ormorlehwah: Na only me wakka com? I av read it before. *following* Ride On: Queen.

Thanks dear.

toykathy: I must commend ur great effort Queen, u re indeed a good writer. Add some ginger 2d story dearie to make it more captivating. My 2k though.

Noted dearie. Thanks

TWO

Katherine Sylvester alighted from the bus,
clutched the traveling bag handle on her
shoulder and used her right hand to
straightened out her black gown with a
yellow belt strapped around her waist. A
yellow beret was shaped to a side with
her long hair tucked in.
She stood five feet, seven inches tall as
she waited for the bus to move ahead
before crossing to the other side of the
road. Her skin glowed reminding one of
chocomilo.
Her brows were full, her face oblong. You
wouldn't call her fat neither slim, if one
was compelled to pick one of the
adjective, slim would be chosen, with all
curves and cleavages well represented
and positioned.
Simple but attractive was the common
compliment she got!
It was past 9, the sun was set and at it's
best, so hot that it could boil an egg. She
kept on trekking, the sun the least of her
problems. She had three street to walk
through before she got to a bus stop
Where she would board a bus that will
lead her home.
She decided to take the shortest route
she could remember to her destination.
She cornered to the street across her.
The street was cool because of the much
shady trees and calm because it was
obviously a street for the rich.
She sighed feeling thirsty but she thought
against waiting for a minute on the
street.
All handy men, women were off to work
even children were in school.
Katherine continued her journey without
looking back even at sometimes the bark
of dogs or the cat calls of gatekeepers
who were idly outside.
She took another turn and admired the
street for it look like a boulevard with
magnificent buildings. It now appeared
like she had not passed there before.
Halfway through the street, a building
made her slowed her pace, it was the
administrative building of an industrial but
popular organization. It was extravagantly
yet impeccably designed.
A notice board made her halt, a cleaner
should apply within. Katherine smiled, it
was like a answer to her prayer. She
wanted to work this time Where she can
see what it was like for people who have
actualized her kind of dream if all things
had been equal. She was past wallowing
in self pity.
She approached the gigantic gate.


As she stepped her feet into the waters
of the company, she came face to face
with a security man.
'Good morning Sir.' She greeted with a
smile and noticed five other pair of
careful eyes watching her.
'Good morning, how may I help you? ' His
gave her an encouraging smile.
'I came concerning the notice I saw
outside. '
'That is not the kind of job for you.' The
elderly man said with a scrutinizing look.
'I know Sir but I need it.' She stated
simply not embarrassed.
After few seconds of consideration, he
spoke. 'Walk to your right as though you
intend going round the building, you will
noticed a detached building. Ask for the
head cleaner and express yourself. '
'Thank you very much Sir.' She gave him
her big and appreciation smile.
'You're welcome. 'He returned and
watched her leave. such a well mannered
girl and a beauty too, Why would she
want to do that kind of job? He was
thoughtful.
'Oga, ' One of the younger security man
called. 'Who is she? ' His eyes not leaving
the retreating figure.
'Ask me again! ' He snapped before going
to sit and balancing a club on his lap.
+++

*-*
Katherine admired the neatness and
serenity of her environment until she got
to the building.
She took deep breath before knocking.
The door was opened by a woman in her
mid fifties.
'Good morning ma.' She bent slightly to
greet with a smile.
'Welcome my pickin, wetin I fit do for
you? ' She had an overall on top of her
clothes.
Katherine knew that to obtain favor from
people you have to speak to them in a
language best understood by them. 'I de
ask of the head cleaner. '
'Na me be that. ' She answered proudly,
'wetin you want? '
'I come because of the notice wey I see
for outside.'
'You wan apply? ' She asked retaining her
smile but studying the young lady with
motherly eyes.
'Yes ma.' She answered.
'Okay my pickin come inside. ' She stood
aside for her. 'Sit don. ' She gestured to a
chair.
An unmistakable coolness took over the
hotness she had felt. Aircondition in the
cleaners wing! That wasn't the only
surprise, there were about 12 black
chrome vinyl chair around a centre table.
The floor was covered .with modern
tiles .
She sat and the head cleaner sat across
her.
She heard voices from inner rooms and
saw what she presumed was the store.
Katherine filled the form she was given
and after glancing through the form, she
spoke.
'I know say girl like you no suppose do
this job but anything fit happen for life
and me, ' She shook her head. 'I don get
my share, person suppose chop and live
like person. I don de work here for fifteen
years. '
'Woah! ' Katherine join the flow. 'That na
long time, you deserve the post you de
now.'
The HC grinned. 'Ha my pickin! I de happy
for the post wella, less work, more
money but I deserve am. Back to
business like Oyibo people they say …'
She adjusted herself on the seat and
laughed. 'To be cleaner here, you de
serious and hardworking. Our Oga
kpatakpata like make everywhere de neat
pass hospital. We de resume 7 make we
fit tidy everywhere before workers go
come by 8. We go start you with twenty
five thousand, if you do your work well,
after six months we go top am. Na
monday to friday, Shay you ready to
work ?'
'Yes ma. ' That would be the highest
salary she would ever earn.
'You go start next tomorrow. ' She said
finally.
'Thank you very much ma.'
'Thank God my pickin, this place no be like
any other office, we no get anything to
give you except water. '
'I am okay ma, Thank you. ' She stood
bend her knees to show appreciation.
'When you come on Monday, we go give
you everything you go need. ' She was
seeing her off when the phone began to
ring. ' Emmm... I no go fit follow you
reach gate.'
'Yes ma, goodbye ma.' she said before
the HC hurried in.
Shading her eyes with a palm , she looked
up at the skyscraper to see the name -
SIGISMUND INTERNATIONAL. Back in
secondary school she knew it was owned
by a black American, a considerate one to
be precise.
She head towards the way she came and
the security man met her.
'Any hope of seeing you soon? ' He asked
almost in a whisper because he could see
the other security man's ear enlongating.
'Yes.' She replied whispering, she got the
cue. 'Thank you very much Sir. '
'Thank God Miss, see you tomorrow. ' He
returned the smile.
As she stepped out and felt the scorch of
the sun, she increased her strides and
adjusted her beret, now she was hurry to
get home.
On sighting a mart, she stopped to buy
sachet water.
+++

Please drop your opinions and encourage me.

****
'... I don't hear you Oladimeji. I can't continue
to hear the tales of your obsession and
madness. I don't understand Why you chose to
exist in a reality that only happens in your
head! I am not married to you by any
standard. Please I beg of you in whatever you
believe in most, stop pestering me!'
'Hester you are mine, nothing you …'
Hester tossed the phone to another sofa in the
balcony and started sobbing.
He had been behind all along and had listened
to her end of the conversation. He picked the
phone and walked away.
'Hester …Hester hello? You had better not
hang up on me! You know what I can do to you
…you wouldn't dare. Hello, are you there …?
'What can you do Oladimeji, what do you
intend doing Mr Don't Dare Me? '
'Who am I speaking with!'
'Take a wild guess Oladimeji. ' Ethel beamed.
'Why did you collect the phone from her? '
'I see no reason Why you should sweat
Oladimeji. It's about time we both have a one
on one talk.'
'I don't have anything to say to you Ethelbert,
give the phone back to my Sweetheart. Give
the phone back to her now! '
'Take it easy colleague, we can't exchange
anything that can draw blood via the phone. '
'I wonder who has been feeding you with
rubbish! I am not afraid of you Ethelbert! I do
have things to trash out with you. Hester
shouldn't be under your roof, she is mine, my
property, she belongs to me! You had better
not touch me ,you had better not get
physically attached to her! '
'Oh you're still at her that?' He chuckled. 'I'll
advise you come over and learn far more than
that. '
'I am not joking Ethelbert! You had better not
fool around with me, it's deadly …very deadly.
'
He chuckled. 'Hester does not belong to you.
She made that fact clear before the world that
you're not worthy of her. I am wondering
Adeniyi, when last were you examined by a
psychiatrist because you have lot of mental
issues that needed to be brought under control
before you need ropes. I can still send you that
tape. '
'Shut up Ethelbert !Shut up! Just keep quiet! '
'Sometimes I can't help but be so sorry for
you. How can you be a president when you
can't respect the simple request of a lady?
How will you handle the request of the
Nigerian population? Listen …'
'Don't lecture me you jerk! We will see the
greatest when the time comes. Goodies like
you are good for nothing than to be munched.
'I don't waste my block heads like you.'
'Are you crazy? Do you know who you're
calling block head? '
Ethel laughed heartily knowing he had hit a
soft spot. 'Hi baby baby, heard daddy has been
treating you good. He took you to the
amusement park the other day, were you able
to count the number of swings, I guess not. I
hope you didn't poopoo on your body again.
'He said with a voice laced with mockery and
amusement.
'I'll never forget who you are baby president. '
Ethel burst into laughter.
'I don't have time for …'
'As a matter of fact Adeniyi, for your own
good, stay away from Hester because before
you lay a finger on her from now henceforth,
you will have me to contend with. Do I make
myself clear! ' His voice roared like that of a
soldier. Hester would have been startled if she
was close.
'You can't... '
Ethel ended the call and head for the sitting
room.
'Oladimeji is taking advantage of your
emotions. He can only do that via calling. You
have to change your sim. '
Hester lifted her head and wipe her tears. She
shook her head.
'I can get you another. '
'No Ethel, the sim is inbuilt, all of friends near
and far can only contact via that. That phone
is multifunctional and has saved my life a
number of times . It is the last gift I received
from Victoria and I can't part ways with it
because of that Oladimeji. '
Ethel looked down at the phone. 'I understand.
There will be another way. '
++++
****
Hester exhaled and walked out to the balcony.
Ethel followed her and stood in front of her.
'Oladimeji is a chameleon, I don't believe he
just changed like that. '
'I know Ethel.' She looked up at him.'I'll will
get ready for whatever might come up.'
'Hester I am coming with you.' He held her
gaze.
'Ethelbert. ' Her voice had a plea, 'we don't
have to keep arguing about this. I don't want
you to get involved. '
'I'm afraid Hester, I will be involved come
Wednesday. ' He looked away from her to the
view of the spring out of the balcony.
'I wish I could convince you otherwise but I
see your mind is made.' Hester shrugged and
took his hand. 'Let's go eat lunch.'
++++
***
WEDNESDAY,
Hester took a bird view of what appears to be
a ground floor parking space . 'This building
appears to be empty but it suit all description.
'
'Let's check up, if we get same there, we'll
have to leave immediately. ' He took in the
environment before heading up the stairs.
They had been no sight of any vehicle as they
approached the building.
They had parked their car a couple of street
away and came via foot.
They got to the top of the two storey building.
They entered the first room, it was large and
empty like a warehouse.
Hester entered first and looked out of the only
window and inspect the environment.
Ethel was close when the iron door that served
as their entrance began closing as if on cue .
His gymnastics came to play as he swiftly
somersaulted twice. He fell short of calculation
and thinking because of the little space left for
the door to close. Without thinking, he placed
his right arm between as a wedge.
As the door pulled, the pain hit him, he
gnashed his teeth and groaned resisting.
She turned around on a heel and was shocked
at the sight before her. She ran to the door
and put her hands at the space between and
pulled with all her might.
He didn't remove his arm.
'Remove your arm, damn it! ' She screamed.
He removed his arm and fell. He held his arm
as the burning pain raked through his entire
being from the arm. He gnashed his teeth.
She removed her arms and the door slammed
shut.
'Oh God! ' He exclaimed.
'What in the world is wrong with you Ethelbert!
What is wrong with you!' Her eyes shone in her
exasperation coupled with the fact that she felt
like beating with both fists until until she was
exhausted.
'I was trying …to prevent the door from
closing.
'From closing? ' She nearly shrieked. 'If you
can't feel the weight of the door, can't you feel
it? '
He looked at her a bit taken aback by her
outburst, 'That is the only way we can leave
here.'
Her chest rose and fell. 'Says who? '
'I just had to do it. Now we are trapped by
Oladimeji. '
'Don't ever do it again! Don't ever sacrifice Any
part of your body like that irrationally!
'Why are you sounding like I did it because of
you. ' He sat and tried massaging his arm.
'You did it because of me, you did it because
am the major one at stake. Oladimeji knows
better than to do anything silly to you. You
what? ' She paused momentarily, 'That's Why
am angry, It is not worth it! I don't worth it
because I don't appreciate it and please don't
do it again. '
He opened his mouth to protest but couldn't.
This was a version of her, he had never seen.
She took three steps forward and took deep
breaths. 'Let me see your arm.' She stoop.
'No Hester. ' He stood. 'I'm... I'm fine.
She stood and looked at him with raised brows
baffled at his response when his facial
expression and the way he held his arm said
otherwise.
'Really am okay. ' He managed a smile.
She said nothing more as she walked back to
the large window and pointed. 'This part has
no fence.'
He stood beside her.' I have an idea, we will
climb over the window and escape through
that bush.'
She nodded as she had already thought of that.
'Jump? ' He turned to her suddenly. 'Hester
you don't have to be afraid. I'm well aware of
the height but you've to jump. I'll jump first
after which you, so I cushion you.'
'Hmmmm …' She could have smiled but she
maintained a calm face as said 'okay. '
He climbed over the window and helped
through it so they could Stand at the little
platform it provided.
He jumped and rolled over over at landing. He
stood, wince and swing his inflamed arm
before beckoning to her with both legs apart.
She jumped and calculated somersaults, she
landed on her feet.
'Whooah! ' He did not hide his shock at her
precision. 'Hester how in the world …'
She pulled his okay arm. 'Let's get out of here
before they come after us.' She glanced back
and saw a head peering at the window. 'Ethel
we have to run.'
A gun shot rented the air.
They took to their heels.
'Let me have the Jeep keys. ' She said in
between breaths.
Feeling the hotness of his arm and the
shakiness, he couldn't object as he granted her
request.
FEW MINUTES LATER,
Sweating and panting, they got into the Jeep.
Hester buckled her seat belt and turned on the
ignition.
Ethel sat back and closed his eyes
She set the Jeep in motion. She glanced at him
with a knowledge of the possible damage and
pain he was going through. She was aware he
was trying hard to be brave.
'Dearie am sorry about your arm but you have
to strap your seat belt. We have to race now
because we won't be allowed time go without a
chase.'
'That good for nothing …' He sat up and jerked
his head back.
'Strap your seat belt dear.' She changed gears
waiting for him to be safe before executing her
plan.
He obeyed. 'Hester are you sure you can …?'
'Can you keep quiet for me dearie. ' She
interrupted calmly. 'Four eyes are better than
two, you can watch the road with me. 'She
took a turn. 'Better still, say -go Hester! Go
Hester do your thing.
Ethel flashed her a smile displaying his perfect
dentition. How could anymore be so calm in
such a situation.
++
**
She knew one of the cars was vehicle distance
away, two were five cars away and was nine
vehicles distant .
She looked at the traffic light as it became red
and like a bolt from the blue an idea occurred
to her.
Who are you?
Hester Douglas Tobechukwu.
Who is beside you?
Ethelbert Franklin Onyemakazie.
You mean you two are …?'[i][/i]
Her thought trailed off as she left the one lane
drive swiftly and cautiously, thankfully she had
left a considerable space in front of her.
She sped up.
'Hester, what are you …?'
'Hold your breathe.'
At the round about, she accelerated and it
generated blurring dust . Before the road users
could digest the sight before them.
She had joined the moving lane and swerved
into a short cut.
'I didn't know a road was here.' Ethel looked
out through the windscreen.
'Bless Wale heart for giving me that book on
Nigeria roads and special thanks to the writer.
'
'Mtcheew! They can't follow us.' He almost
sang
Hester smiled sweetly. 'You can take a nap
now.'
Ethel sat back and exhaled. He closed his eyes
with a smile on his lips.
+++++

SIXTEEN

Hester rolled into bouts of laughter. 'I'm trying
so hard for my intestines not....not to
disconnect. '
'I'll bring them back together with superglue,
you shouldn't bother about that.' He smiled.
She supported her abdomen with her palm as
she rolled into yet another bout of laughter.
'When the day of birthday came, our friends
attended and variety of female attended, you
know what I mean? '
Hester nodded.
'The celebration progressed smoothly until two
ladies started arguing about which was Osagie
girlfriend. In no time, they were the centre of
all attraction. '
'What did Osaz do? ' Hester sipped her fruit
wine.
Ethel shook his head in remembrance with a
smile. 'He set the video of his phone to work.
A couple of minutes later, he wanted to get his
video device inside the house and asked that i
continued to cover the happenings. I thought
he was crazy and I told him so, knowing how
wild ladies fight can get especially when the
reason is a man.'
'Especially when the guy has the brains,
popularity, wealth and even good looks.'
Hester added.
'That's right. ' He acknowledged. 'He ran into
the house and came out with a video recorder.
Nobody attempted to separate them since it
was a reality show with no fee attached. They
pushed each other, hurled insults, exchanged a
couple of slaps, one poured a glass of wine on
the other, the other retaliated with a bowl of
salad.
Then, they sighted that the reason for their
fight and their temper got to it's peak and they
both advanced towards him. With a straight
face, he shunned them before going to the
platform and gave a three minutes talk on
public comportment . At the end he was
applauded.
'And the girls felt like the greatest fool in the
planet.' Hester chirped in.
'I believe they will take a break from parties
for two months. '
Hester chuckled. 'That's if they are wise.'
He picked the fork and ate from his
plate.'Listen to the best part. ' He drank water.
'Later in the day, Osaz made a confession -the
don, when those ladies de approach me
shuuuu... ,na by God's grace that video no fall
from my hand. I bi wan ran outside. In fact ,I
don die go sef , na scope I just use.' He tried
mimicking Osagie
Thankfully there was nothing in her mouth, if
not, she would have choked as she laughed
heartily.
++++
****
Hester crossed her leg and looked intently at
the large plasma screen TV in the sitting room.
'That lady acts so well and she is very
beautiful. ' She pointed. 'Ethel what is her
name? '
Ethel glared at her momentarily. 'You don't
know her?' He was sitting across her seeing the
same nollywood movie.
'You sound like the world knows her save me.'
'She has won the award for the best actress in
Nigeria for three years back to back. She has
been the exclusive face of nollywood. She has
even won a Grammy. She is Africa finest and
rep even international.'
'How cute! what is her name?'
'Natasha Williams. ' He studied her expression.
She shook her head, the name not ringing a
bell in her head.
He helped her. ' She was Oladimeji lover for a
year and half, they were even engaged to be
married. They were seen together in almost
every occasion until Oladimeji publicly
announced their disengagement with
preinforming Nat.
Hester bit her lower lips to prevent herself
from cursing him. 'Good grief.' She frowned.
'He is ruthless Hess. She was so heartbroken,
she trimmed and suspended work for a couple
of months. She announced publicly that she
would have to nothing to do with an intimate
relationship with any guy. It was her
profession and nothing more.' He grinned. and
then chuckled.
Hester eyed him. 'You are not about to burst
into fits of laughter when there is nothing
funny.
'I remember a story linking Osaz to our
discussion. ' He flashed his white set of teeth.
Hester looked away, exhaled and then
chuckled.
'A couple of weeks later, Osaz and I got a guest
invite to PROJECT FAME. We got to the car park
after the show, Osaz sighted a pink sleek ride
in which the plate reads -NATWILLS. '
''Who is NATWILLS? " Osaz inquired.
"That should belong to Natasha Williams. "
"Natty …Natty …that means should be in there.
'' He smiled mischievously.
'What's up Gem? '
'I will go in there and come out with Natasha,
if in five minutes am not out, you can leave
with the car."
"Are you sure you are ready to loose half of
your head? "
"My Don, to every stubborn lady, there is
stubborner man. " He laughed and walked
away gallantly.
Hester rolled her eyes.
'In three minutes, he came out hand in hand
with her with his smile reaching his ears not in
anyway handicapped. '
Hester smiled.
'We chatted and he invited her for a drink, she
agreed and for fortyfive minutes, we were
together. Subsequently, Osaz went out with
her a couple of more times. Yet bet the
tabloids glared with photographs, headlines
and captivating story. Osagie could be very
dramatic. They became good friends.'
'Osaz was a goal getter. ' She commented
calmly.
'While I was away in South Africa, Natasha met
me and told me she found out I could lead her
to where you are. Said she wanted to relate
with you.'
Hester uncrossed her legs.
She uncrossed her legs and said nothing.
'I did everything to dissuade her yet she was
bent on meeting with you. I think she has not
gotten over Oladimeji and wants to see for
herself what Oladimeji is so crazy about in
you.' Ethel stated before glancing at the
screen.
'Hmmmm …' Hester resolved thoughtfully.
'Oladimeji is still available for her, I won't see
her. The last thing I will not do is to fight
another lady for a man.'
'Not even for love …?' He raised his brows.
'Love worketh no ill to his neighbor! therefore
love is the fulfilling of the law. Fighting is an
I'll and a show of undiscipline.' She stood.
'Goodnight Ethel, it's time for me to sleep. '
It was pass noon.
'Wait Hess, remind me of the Bible passage. '
'Romans thirteen verse ten, cheerio. ' She head
to her bedroom.
He sat back and his brows narrowed
thoughtfully.
++++
****
'Though we may not see every time we call his
name, He will be there for us.' They all sang.
They were having a vigil to conclude the seven
days of fasting the entire household had
embarked on. They had converged in the
sitting room.
'Oh Let's sing it. ' Ethel compelled with closed
eyes.
'Though we may not see every time we call his
name he will be there for us. It is well …it is
well …it is well in the name of Jesus, it is well
with our soul today. It is well …it is well …it is
well in the name of Jesus …it is well with our
soul today. ' Their hands were joined as they
sang.
'With Nigeria …' He said.
'It is well …it is well … it is well in the name of
Jesus …it is well with Ni-ge-ria today. It is well
…it is well with Ni-ge-ria... '
'Do something new Lord in our lives make a
start, do something new Lord, do something
new.'
With raised voice they sang the new song.
Ethel knelt in their midst as the Mummy J took
over the prayers.
++++
++++
'... there was a scheme that was organised at
that time and since I was a citizen by birth, I
applied and it was approved. I was in the U.S
ARMY for a couple of years.'
'Seriously? With the law and criminal justice
you did in SA. ' SHE was flabbergasted.
'There so many of my photographs and portrait
you're yet to see. Probably I'll take you for an
excursion in my bedroom. ' He winked at her.
Hester smiled but retained the serious
expression on her face. ' There are sometimes
when our physical and mental abilities help us
a great deal and sometimes it doesn't mean a
thing, it doesn't hold water. ' Her brows
creased. ' By all standard, I think you're
qualified to be a presidential candidate. From
the day I met you, something told me you
might be the savior and deliverer Nigerians
have been longing and praying for.' She smiled.
'I have always prayed for my country, for the
well being of her but you made my prayers
became focused and direct. Lord let him be
your vessel of honor, let me be the one you
will use to bring smiles on our faces, the very
one you will use to draw those who have
strayed due to what they are passing through
back to You.'
He listened raptly.
'I love Nigeria with everything in me and every
time I hear news that suggest we are going
down, I'm broken. ' Tears formed in her eyes.
'I know how many people would have willingly
given so much for me to stay back in
Hollywood. The hospital reviewed my contract
and wanted to almost double my pay when I
wrote that I was leaving. ' She paused
momentarily.
She paused momentarily. 'I knew I will never
be fulfilled with the knowledge that the
country Where am giving my best is near
perfection and mine is …' Hester shook her
head. 'no where at all. That became the bond
between Victoria and I, choosing to suffer for
a while for our country to be better. ' She
paused momentarily. 'There have been good
and bad leaders. Some actually had good and
positive intentions but lost it not willingly.
Considering this nation of ours alongside the
top position, there are lots of distraction,
corruption, challenges, responsibility, idols
and so on. Physical and mental abilities can't
solve them all. You need something more …
something more than everything you will face.
You need the power that every gods, every
human, everything trembles before, a power
they all acknowledge.
'Dear you need the Invincible ,the possessor of
the power that conquers all.' She was
emphatic. 'Let him saturate you, let him fill
your body, spirit and soul. Let him take charge
of your every abilities. '
Ethel exhaled and closed his eyes briefly.
'Let's share what the Holy book says in the
Proverbs eight. ' She used her phone Bible.
'The fear of the Lord is to hate evil :pride and
arrogancy, and the evil way and the froward
mouth, do I hate. counsel is mine, and sound
wisdom! I am understanding! I have strength.
By me Kings reign and princes decree justice.
By me, princes rule, and nobles, even all the
judges of the earth.
I love them that love me and those that seek
me early shall find me.
Riches and honor are with me; yea, durable
riches and righteousness.
My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine
gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst
of the path of judgment.
That I may cause those that love me to inherit
substance; and I will fill their treasures.
The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his
way, before his works of old.'
She took his hands in hers. 'Let him possess
you in the beginning of your way. Seek him
early, see He can help with everything only if
you ask him.' Hester stood. 'Ask him now.'
He held her back.' Let's ask him together. ' He
eyes had become glassy with tears.
Hester got down on her knees.


+++

kingphilip: Wow Queenxstar Tnx for the reposting u r always a darling
Nice one abeg no slack just continue

Yes sir.

boladex1: thank you am really enjoying the story before the Virus attack. now we start the journey again.
let the journey begins

Welcome back dear.

kingphilip: Wow Queenxstar Tnx for da revival dearie you've always been great I know

See me all blushing. Thanks King.

I doff my crown for you, your work is so unique and has a way of putting me on the edge.
Seats comfortably and mutters -it is good to be back here once again.

LogoDWhiz: Permit me to ask, what's d story about?

Is it action, romance and d likes.
And more so, is it fiction or nonfiction..

Haven't read it yet tho..

But it looks nice

A little bit of the all the mentioned. Thanks dear.

Seats comfortably in anticipation.

uchebest2006: As A Nairaland Writer,we need to know each other more,our state of origin,L.G.A,what we do,our hobby,our achievement.Lets get the fun.Wanna start with mine.Share yours please.

Lovely suggestion.

I am Ugbaja Esther Ogechi,

From Abia state, Umuahia south precisely.

Finished from school of nursing umuahia.

Love writing, inspirational music, shy dancing or better still dancing in my privacy, Counseling and reading.

LOVE my profession.

I don't like disturbance.

I love God because in him I have my being.

ugbajaesther@yahoo.com

080-942-19722

DOTTED LINES,
FIGHTING BACK,
GENERATION TO GENERATIONS
are works I have on NL.

Blog -www.exceptionalstar.

Comfortably seated in anticipation.

1
LIKE SOME SAY when the elements of
weather especially rain becomes
unbearable, in their fustration or
expression, they go- it has been raining
cats, dogs, lions, tigers, elephant,
hippopotamus.... and what have you.
That has it has been for the past five
days, it was either drizzling or raining
heavily. Already posing hazard in riverine
and areas with poor drainage.
The sky was darkened in the early hours
of that morning needing no forecaster to
tell it was going to come down in torrents
anytime soon. Despite it all, he came out
of the house and limped with great
difficulty out of the house. Anyone
watching from afar needed no soothsayer
to tell that he was a very sad man.
Just by window of the house stood his
daughter with a worried frown on her
beautiful face.
He raised his hands towards heaven and
cried out. 'Oh God! I have trusted, served
and depended on you from my teen. So
many have happened that I don't
understand and have questioned yet I'm
still in the dark, ' The breeze caressed his
lean frame and the water dripped down
his face. 'You know everything that has
happened and how it tored me apart with
much bitterness. 'He swallowed hard.
'Many a times, I am driven to want to
fight back but I can't go diabolical. When
I look at myself and think about my
daughter, my spirit fails. Lord! Lord
Almighty, the Creator of the universe, the
beginning and the end, your eyes are not
blind that you cannot see my situation,
your ears are not deaf that you cannot
hear my heart cry, your hands are not
short that you cannot reach out to the
world you created and do justice. ' He
slumped on his knees with tears trickling
down his wrinkled face. 'I believe in your
words, in your promises -' He raised an
index finger. 'You promised me that you
will fight for me and I shall hold my peace
…Lord, you said hand join in hand, the
wicked shall not go unpunished …you said
whatever we sow, that we shall reap …
you also said …Oh my father... ' His voice
trailed off and his body trembled. 'You
said vengeance is yours, you will repay …'
Lightening flashed brightly and thunder
clapped. 'Avenge by adversaries! Avenge
my adversaries! You are the hammer that
break the rock in pieces! ' His voice rose
as he mustered all the energy he could. 'I
have made you my chief warrior, leash
out your judgment …this is the last of my
heart desire, this is my last demand, this
is my last request. ' His hands clenched
into fists and he shook emphatically.
'God! this is my request! Prove to the
world that there is always a boomerang
effect on every evil done regardless of
the period. I know the arrow of ricochet
of cataclysm is bound to be fired! 'The
lightening shone, illuminating the vicinity
powerfully for seconds, then the thunder
clapped so violently that his daughter
trembled slightly and covered both ears.
The sky had let loose and a pool had
formed around him. 'For my dear child …'
His voice was calm and he placed both
palms together before him. 'bless her
heart o Lord …look upon my little girl and
do to her as you will …do to her as you
will …' He bowed and sobbed like a child,
his body shook convulsively in pain more
of the heart than body. 'I can't take this
pain anymore …'
She wanted to go out and help him up
but she had been suffering from cold, she
was sure her father would not appreciate
her coming out in the rain because there
was no money to treat her condition if it
got pretty worst.
+++

*-*
He came out from his room clothed.
'Honey, what are you doing? '
She closed the lid of the pot and
smiled.'Making breakfast for us, it will be
ready in five minutes. ' She turned,
covered the distance between them and
adjusted the collar of his T shirt.
'Honey, you should have made for you
alone. ' His voice calm but sad.
'Aw Daddy …' she drawled disapprovingly.
'even if we don't have, we can manage
together. '
'I love you dearie. ' He opened his arms
and she went in all in smiles for a hug.
'You are the most wonderful child in the
world.' He kissed her forehead. 'Excuse
my going to bed.'
'Of course daddy but for just five
minutes. Do you want me to come tuck
you? '
'No honey, I will be fine all by myself,
take care.' His face light up and the
resemblance they shared became
obvious. Same smile revealing a perfect
set of white teeth and gap tooth..'I love
you.'
She laughed infectiously. 'I will daddy and
I love you so much. '
He turned and limped to the door to hide
his hurt expression. 'Bless you my
princess, ' He whispered before leaving
with tears in his eyes.
+++

*-*
She turned on the switch of the bulb.
'Daddy …' She drawled sweetly. 'Food is
ready and this is something delicious.
Daddy, ten minutes is already gone, I
gave you a grace of five minutes.' She
made a face knowing her discussion was
enough to wake her for he was a
conscious sleeper.
'Daddy. ' She called and climbed the bed,
your meal is set. ' She tickled him and the
only response was her own laughter.
'Come on dad, please stop this. ' She
tickled him once more at the side but
was met with the formal response.
She looked at his face with soberly. 'You
know we have been through a lot, this is
not the kind of joke that should amuse
us.' She waited and then her brows
creased to a frown.
She took his hand and dropped it, it just
dropped. Panick surged through her. She
placed a head on his chest to feel his
heart beat. 'No …no …' She dismissed the
sudden reality and became hysterical. She
positioned herself to his side and used all
the strength she could muster to do a
mouth to mouth breathing like she had
seen her elder brother do some years
back.
She went on and on. Beads of sweat now
crowded her face and neck. 'Jesus come
to my aid …' She muttered and pant for
air. She exert pressure as many as she
could on his chest.
She touched his face and she felt a
strange coldness. Then it hit her like a
bolt from the blues. She place her face on
his chest and sobbed. 'You know you
can't do this …you can't just …just leave
me …' She glanced up as the ceiling. 'Oh
God …how can you do this to me …?How
can you …? How can you render me so …'
Her tears flowed. 'It's unfair, you know it
is unfair! It's unfair!!' She screamed
soulfully, rolled off the bed and sat with
her back to the wall her legs
outstretched. She stared into space dazed
but her tears poured.
An image of the knife she had used for
the onions earlier flashed back in her mind. She
shook her head, they would be
disappointed in her.
She wouldn't see them, because she
would be going to a different place.
She was sixteen, she had a distasteful feel
of wind of fate.
+++

nnekamezor: hello Estar,hw hv u bin?longest tym....this is a new storywat abt GTG

It's coming back. Fighting back is not new.

G T G is back and better. All thanks to HAMEENAT, PRINCESA and KINGPHILIP who mastermind the labour for this rebirth.
I welcome all family members of GTG.
I welcome all potential family members.

All rights reserved. Utilization of this work in whole or part in any form by electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented is forbidden without the permission of thecopyright owner. You contact me via

esther_ugbaja@yahoo.com.
I'm opened to constructive criticism, compliment and your patience.

Thanks.

Those are reading for the first time, welcome to fighting back family and please feel free to drop your 2kobo.

FIFTEEN

"Happy birthday to ya …happy birthday to ya
…happy birthday … " Blasted from the home
theatre.
Hester alighted the stairs with an inquisitive
smile. She beamed at the decoration pattern
that greeted her eyes.
Some were dancing, some sitting, bobbing
their head and some eating. It happened that
she knew everyone present.
'Hi our lady.' Precious said with a smile
holding a glass of wine.
'I was wondering if I can join. '
'Our lady …our lady. 'He chided jokingly. 'Why
can't you, it's Dominic's birthday party! '
'Oh yeah? '
'You don't know? ' He went wide eyed.
Her eyes swept faces until it came in contact
with the guy of the day.
He realized his mistake and immediately came
over. 'I'm sorry our lady, I can't comprehend
how it ever slip out of my mind.'
'So you didn't invite her? ' Precious glared at
him.
'Please forgive me my lady.' Dominic ignored
him.
'Oh I almost forgot! ' He took a couple of
steps backward. 'Our lady do forgive him,
sometimes the fluid in H's head becomes
coconut water.' Having said that, he fled.
Hester beamed.
'Can I join the party? ' Hester asked when he
looked back at her.
'Yes please. I'll get you a drink. '
He decided to be more of a spectator, he
realized it was one of the best under his roof.
He had never seen everybody so happy and
hearty.
She danced with the birthday guy and a couple
of others, she laughed at jokes, she had caught
him looking at her and they had exchanged a
smile.
She had sang the popular HAPPY BIRTHDAY
SONG in French and Latin and had endeavor to
teach them.
Presently Dominic was giving his voice of
thanks . He thanked him graciously and they
applauded her.
Later she led them all to uniform dance steps
like what you see in Tyler Perry's movies. He
wanted to escape but she had made him Stand
beside her as they all danced, laughing at one
another.
He never knew so much sparkle abode in her
eyes .
Ethel couldn't help but wished he had the
power for her to stay that way.
++++
****
He copied from the laptop into the flash glad
that the project was fully taking shape.
The scream came long and piercing. His pen
dropped that instant and he stood fully alert.
Ethel bolt for the door of his study and ran all
the way to the stairs and through corridors.
He didn't remember to knock as he opened the
door and saw her.
She was seated on the bed, the blanket
drawned up to her waist. Her head was buried
in her palms, she moved it from side to side
slowly. 'My God …Oh my God …no …no …
Jesus. ' She muttered.
He sensed that she had screamed out of a
nightmare.
'Hester …Hester.' He called softly and
approached her.
The table lamp was on.
She exhaled deeply before looking up at him
through. misty eyes. She massaged her neck.
She shook her head from side to side
irregularly. 'It was so scary …so horrible and
so …so real.' Her gaze swept around and
settled on him. 'Did I wake you?'She tried
clearing her voice.
'I was in the study. Are you all right? '
'No …I'm not Ethel. ' She stood. 'Can I come
with you? '
'Yes.' He saw how shaken she was. Was Ola
now chasing her to her dreams? Her hands has
not left her neck. Was he trying to strangle
her?
Ethel exhaled.
++++
'I know you're through Ethel, you don't have to
keep me company. It's midnight already and
am sure you have appointment later.
'I'm worried about you, I could spare an hour.
'
'No Ethel I feel better. ' She stood as he put
what he had on the table in their proper
order.
'I will rather you go back to sleep.'
'I'm never going to sleep at night again. ' Her
voice was calm.
He could have laughed but because of her
serious expression, he smiled instead. 'It will
pass too soon.'
'Have a splendid night rest and thanks for
tonight .' She took a glance at the photographs
on the wall. 'I will be downstairs. '
'Take care.'
She nodded before leaving.
He pondered for a couple of minutes before
leaving the study.
++++
***
'What is your favorite music? '
'What do you want to do with my favorite
music? ' She popped a slice of apple into her
mouth.
Ethel dropped the bottle of yoghurt and picked
a remote control. 'I want us to dance. '
'Oh no! Wrong timing Ethel.' She gave him a
faint smile. 'I'm not in the mood.' She popped
in another slice.
'Can we stroll? '
She nodded still munching.
He waited for her to finished her apple while
he sipped his yoghurt.
As the days became weeks, he realized she had
meant her statement. She slept in the
afternoon and got busy in the night, a number
of times she had asked for his permission to
use the gym. She had also relieved the cook
who was like a second mum to them all
because before she wakes, breakfast was ready
or half way prepared.
More disturbing to him was that she became
reserved. Everytime he felt color was slowly
draining from her face.
Eventually they strolled out and finally sat by
the pool.
'I need you to do me a favor. ' Ethel looked
her hopefully.
Her eyes left the flower lawn to look at him.
'I know it's kind of huge but I need you to stay
indoor while am away in South Africa. Please
Hester …'
'Come on already, you don't have to beg me, I
will gladly do that and I mean it. '
'Spend all the time you want. Can I come with
you to the airport tomorrow? '
'Sure. And what will you like me to bring back
for you? '
All the balloons in the country. ' She directed
her gaze to the pool.
'You are kidding me! ' He burst into laughter
then he suddenly dawned on her as he
remembered his sister.
++++
***
Down on her knees, she read through the book
of Proverbs chapter 5.
The heard the first gunshot and then the
second.
She jolted to her feet and head for the balcony
adjoining her room.
What she saw made her run back into the
room, pulled out a drawer and fetched out two
guns. She took her keys from her dressing
table and ran out.
By the time she got out, the available men of
the control room had already set to work.
The walls had been lowered automatically as
there exchanged of bullets between the
ruffians that were about 15, surrounding the
premises and Ethelbert men who defended
their boss property.
She drove her car out of the garage to the
back of the house. She parked close to the wall
and climbed onto the roof of her car.
She began shooting with both guns.
In twenty minutes, some were down with bullet
wounds. The remaining resigned to flee but the
sound of sirens of about five police vehicles
blaring from opposite side of the road stopped
them.
The police men took charge of the situation.
Few minutes later, members of press arrived.
Wale addressed the press while Dominic spoke
to the DPO and wrote a statement.
An ambulance arrived few minutes later and
Wale and Dominic went to police station in
their own car to supervise the torture process.
Hester went back to the house to freshen up
after parking her car back in the garage.
++++

****
'The heart of man is desperately wicked, who
can know it.' Ethel sipped water. 'Who could
have thought Mallam Mustapha Hussein could
go ahead to attack me, in my own home. I will
use him as an example to others. Contesting
for the president is now all about how well you
run your opponent down.
The cook and the oldest at the table sighed.
Hester chewed and dabbed her mouth.
Having finished their meal, many dropped
their cutleries.
Ethel waited for all to finish eating before he
continued. 'I want to thank you all for
upholding the integrity of this building in my
absence. I watched the video recording and
saw the part you all played. Shall we all rise
please. ' He stood
They rose.
'This is a standing ovation, a mark of honor of
what our lady did. Let's make it complete and
put our hands together for me.
They applaud her with smiles on every lips.
Hester lowered her eyes.
'Thank you.' She said when silence returned.
'Momma Kate, please round up this celebration
with prayer. ' Ethel directed to the cook.
+++
***
She inserted the earpiece and continued
strolling.
'Hello? '
'Hello Sweetheart …'
Hester ended the call spontaneously.
'Oh my God. ' She took deep breaths to steady
herself.
++++
***
Hester was lying on the bed, her arms around
her teddy bear . She stared into space blankly.
For the second time, the brass knocker
sounded.
She sat up. 'Come in the door is open. '
He opened the door and step past it. 'Hope I
didn't interrupt your sleep. '
'No Ethel come in and sit.' She looked up at
him and noticed he was grinning. 'What's up? '
'Your birthday was three days ago.' He
maintained his smile.
'Three days ago? ' She was confused. 'what is
today's date? '
'Twentieth. '
She remembered without an effort. 'Yeah. ' She
returned without enthusiasm.
'Five days ago was Victoria birthday and that
made me remember yours. You should have
told me.' Ethel eyes didn't leave her face.
'I couldn't have told you something I didn't
even remember. ' Hester returned flatly and
looked away.
Ethel smiled. 'You deserved to be celebrated
darling. You're a conqueror. '
Hester shook her head.
Ethel was unperturbed. 'Happy birthday in
arears my lady. '
'Thanks. ' She gave him a faint smile.
'Excuse me.' He turned to leave but an
afterthought, he looked in her direction. 'Hess
could you please close your eyes. ' He hoped
she wouldn't object.
Hester closed her eyes.
Hester closed her eyes.
Ethel went out and noiselessly move out some
things in the room. 'You can open your eyes
now. '
He watched her in anticipation.
Her mouth became agape at the sight before
her.
He saw her face lighten up, saw her beamed
and saw her brows creased in uncertainty as
she approached the object before her .
Hester chuckled at the illumination the object
gave her bedroom.
She looked up at the stand at the balloon
barrage. A Stand with raised bubbling balloons
of all the colors you can think of.
She picked the pack of chocolate and examined
it and the bouquet of flowers. She closed her
briefly and exhaled.
'Happy Birthday Hester .'
She dropped them on her bed and placed both
hands on her cheeks brimming with
excitement. 'Thank you so much.' She laughed.
'Thank you.'
He saw her face glow and she looked so young.
'I love balloons, I have always loved balloons
as far back as I was a child. The combination is
heavenly and the design is the best I've ever
seen in all my sights.' She glanced at the
bouquet of flowers. 'This is special, it is
beautiful …contains some of my favorite
collection. Same for the chocolate. ' Her gaze
settled on him. 'You really did investigate deep
into my world. ' She laughed her sweet
sounding mesmerizing laughter. 'Heaven knows
I can entrust you with my biography if you
don't know all of it already. '
'And heaven can also testify that a superstar
has never felt better than the way I do now.'
She covered the distance between them and
threw her arms around him. 'God bless you
and reward you greatly for everything you've
done for me.' She kissed him on both cheeks.
'I am happy when you're happy. '
'I pray all your dreams come true and you
become the president of this great country. '
'Amen. ' He claimed before chuckling.
She left his embrace to touch the balloons.
When she turned he was looking at her. 'What
will you like me to do for you? '
'I was considering your dress and I think it's
good to go. Complete it with a shoe and purse,
I'm taking you out for a special lunch... '
She began to shake her head.
'and a karaoke in which we will sing all of your
favorite songs. '
'Ethel please …you will only kill with
excitement besides …'
'Hess, I give you five minutes. I will be
downstairs. ' He returned firmly.
++++

handmaid: hi queenstar. i visited your blog. was glad to see the story- generation to genertion there but could not navigate the blog easily.

i couldn't find a button/icon with which i could find previous posts. it was difficult/impossible to trace previous posts.

your reply would be appreciated.

You should go down the blog and click on the. first month, you should see the beginning of GTG

kingphilip: Done with d exams
Good morning
Longest tym

Yes I am. Miss you, hope you're Splendid.

TiffanyJ: Welcome back Queenxstar, i'm sorry dear. Most of your work got wiped out.
How was the xams?

Beautiful darling. Thanks for asking. Hope you've been Fine.

princesa: I can relate with this. So sorry for your loss. But have you searched for the catched in Google like most writers her did?

Fast lane is not re-posted yet. I also lost the story but a writer here helped me retrieve it tru Google. You should ask around for assistance instead of just shutting Nl out. Please don't take it so badly. You can definitely still retrieve 70 percent of the story. Don't give up okay?

All right dear Princesa, I will be back, my blog is my back up.
Thanks for encouraging me. Looking forward to reading from you.

@Princesa, please what's the link to fast lane because I can't seem to find it?

princesa: Queen why na? No more coming here? I missed you and have been searching for you since. Won't you come and read fast lane again?

I felt like i was launched in the heart of a desert, contactless, penniless and compassless.
All of generations is gone, most of fighting back and dotted line is gone.

To all readers of generation to generations, it now continues on my blog -www.exceptionalstar.
Looking forward to seeing u all.

Glowingscenes,
I want to take time out using this avenue to appreciate you for all the emails we've shared, your patience, maturity and understanding.
Indeed you're an epitome of what you teach.
I appreciate your criticism and I will take it to heart hook, line and sinker.
Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule.
God help you and bless you.

Thanks Senator,handmaid and Jumezie

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