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Am so sorry. posted B.F.F here.

somebody help me ooooo

Torn 46

Torn 46 on the way

Phew! I will update TORN and B.F.F after lunch time. Thanks for your patience.

I apologize for the mix up.

Torn 46 on the way

CHAPTER NINE

She could hardly sleep that night. Her supposed introduction was in a couple of days. She had not seen or heard from her fiancé. His excuse was that he was tied up in a series of meetings with the board of directors of a certain company in order to secure a multi-million naira contract. She was sure he was avoiding her. On the other hand, Bankole had made himself available. He was at her every beck and call. She had refused to go on any date he tried to lure her into. She did not want to encourage him in anyway. She had gotten over him a long time ago. She was in a new and better relationship. Even if she wasn’t, she would have been skeptic about giving him a chance back into her life. She missed Uwa. They needed to put finishing touches to their introduction plans. Her parents had called to find out a thing or two. She would be meeting his family for the first time on the D-day. She had spoken to them all on phone since he proposed to her. She was eager to meet them one on one. Mara had made herself scarce. She had not taken her maid of honour responsibilities seriously. It was as if she wished she wasn’t getting married. They were supposed to leave for her parents’ home that evening. What if she came up with an excuse?

God I commit my plans into your hands. Take control Lord.

She scrolled through her phone and played the Cece Winas song titled ‘More Than What I Wanted’. She could still remember the day Uwa sent the song to her phone. She closed her eyes and reminisced.

xxxxxx

Bankole met Mara in the waiting room. She had been waiting for him for over an hour. He had a lot of patients to see that evening.

“Thank you for waiting.”

“You owe me dinner.”

“Fine. Where will you like to eat?”

“Golden Gate restaurant.”

He eyed her, “Are you trying to drill a hole in my pocket?”

She chuckled, “Haven’t you heard of the saying that goes thus, ‘Don’t keep a lady waiting’?”

He rolled his eyes and pulled off his white coat, “Let us go before I change my mind.”

She started to laugh. They walked out of the building and got into his black Lexus jeep. He navigated into the major road and headed for the Island.

“What is so urgent that you couldn’t discuss on phone?” she glanced at him.

“It is your friend,” he kept his eyes on the road.

“Didi?”

“Do you have any other friend?” he turned to look at her and returned his attention to the road.

“What has the little princess done this time?”

“She is not responding,” the frustration in his voice wasn’t lost to her.

She frowned. The introduction was that weekend. They needed to stop it. Nothing must put a dent on their plans.

“If the introduction doesn’t hold, that will buy you more time.”

He nodded and looked at her. He felt relieved.

“I need your help.”

“Count me in.”

She smiled, “We need to inject her with something lethal.”

“Something that will keep her on a hospital bed for days,” he added.

“Or even for weeks,” she winked at him.

He grinned. He was satisfied with her plan. He knew exactly what to do.

xxxxxx

The ping sound on the phone interrupted her sleep. She opened her eyes and reached out for her phone. She checked her Blackberry Messenger chats and discovered that her fiancé had sent her a song. She clicked on the ‘accept’ signal and waited for it to download. Where was he? Why hasn’t he visited her? If she doesn’t see him that evening, she might check up on him on her way to Ikorodu. It had been torture not seeing him for almost a week. She lay on her tummy and played the song. It was a Darlene Zschech song titled ‘Deeply in love’.

“In my life-you’ve heard me say I love you-How do I, show you it’s true- Hear my heart- it longs for more of you-I’ve fallen deeply in love with you-You have-stolen my heart-I’m captivated by you-never will you and I part-I’ve fallen deeply in love with you-You and I-together forever-nothing can stand-in the way, my love for you-grows stronger each new day-I’ve fallen deeply in love with you.”

She closed her eyes and replayed the song over and over again. Uwa still loved her. He still wanted to marry her. The song confirmed it. It doesn’t matter if Bankole kept trying to win her back. No one could ever separate them. She felt a sense of peace. She was going to marry the man of her dreams, the love of her life, and her knight in shining armour.

‘Thank you God for bringing Uwa into my life. I am eternally grateful’.

She replayed the song again and again.

xxxxxx

Uwa woke up that Saturday morning with a bad headache. He had a nightmare. He saw the love of his life in a pit. He tried to pull her out, but, he couldn’t. The pit kept getting bigger and deeper. He didn’t like the dream. He needed to call her and find out if she was all right. He wondered if she had gotten to her parents’ place in Ikorodu. He rolled on his side and began to pray against every manipulations of the devil concerning his fiancée and himself. His phone began to ring. He ignored the call and kept on praying. About ten minutes later, he picked the call. It was Shalewa, he had not heard from her in a while.

“Morning baby girl. How are you doing?”

“I am fine. Today is supposed to be your introduction, abi?

“Supposed to? It is my introduction day now.”

“Ah! But I thought …”

He sat up. He had a feeling that something was wrong.

“Shalewa what is it?”

“Didn’t Mara call you?”

“Call me? No. Why?”

“Ah-han… Didi was rushed to the hospital last night.”

“What?!” His heart sank.

“Ah… I thought you knew.”

“No, I didn’t.”

“So she didn’t call you.”

“No, she didn’t.”

“That girl sef.”

He got down from the bed. He was confused. Should he call his parents? Should he call her parents? Should they call off the introduction?

“Do you know the hospital she was taken to?”

“No.”

He was getting frustrated, “Thanks. I will call Mara.”

“Okay. Kpele, take care.”

He hung up and fished out Mara’s number on his phone contact list. Why didn’t she call him last night? He dialed her number.

xxxxxx

Didi felt as if she had been drugged to stupor. She tried to move her arms and limbs. Pain attacked every part of her being. She stared at the white painted ceiling and hoped Mara would come back soon. She had gone home to prepare breakfast and bring some of her clothes to the hospital. She hoped she had called her parents. She didn’t want them to panic. The introduction must have been cancelled. Where was her fiancé? Why didn’t he show up the other night? Did Mara call him? Where was he? She needed him. His presence was enough comfort. His voice was like a soothing balm that never failed to relieve her.

“My love…”

She looked towards the doorway and saw him. She beamed.

"Uwa…” she breathed with relief.

He approached the bed and sat by her side, “How are you doing?”

“My tummy hurts.”

“Sorry love. The doctor said you will be discharged tomorrow morning.”

She relaxed and held him by the hand.

“I have called your parents. The introduction has been called off.”

She nodded.

“You are going to be all right,” he pecked her on the forehead. The doctor had told him that she had been poisoned. The toxic substance had been flushed out of her system, but she needed to be careful with what she ate and drank. He would speak to her about it another time. Her wellness was his concern at that moment.

xxxxxx

Mara met Bankole in the waiting room. He helped her to carry some of the things she had brought from home.

“How is she?”

“Knocked out.”

They both started to laugh.

“Whatever you gave me to put in her drink worked like magic.”

“I am glad it bought us more time.”

She nodded and led him to the ward her friend was kept in. They found Uwa and Didi praying.

“What took you so long?” she eyed her friend when she saw her at the foot of the bed.

“Hey! I got here as fast as I can,” she placed the bag and the basket of provisions on the small cupboard beside the bed.

“How are you doing?” Bankole approached the bed.

“Fine,” she wished he had not come. She was sure it was Mara who told him that she was in the hospital.

“I am glad that you are okay.”

Uwa cleared his throat. Bankole glanced at him. He had a feeling that the guy wasn’t comfortable with his presence.

“I made you oatmeal. I added a lot of milk and sugar.”

“Great. I am hungry.”

Shalewa walked in.

“Hey! See this stranger,” she saw her through the corner of her eyes.

She giggled and joined Uwa at the side of the bed.

“How are you feeling?”

“I am good,” she spooned some food into her mouth.

“That is good. Oya eat, eat, you need all the strength you can get.”

“Abi o,” Mara chimed in.

She glanced at Uwa, “Oko Iyawo, kpele,” she patted him on the shoulder.

“Thanks jare.”

“I want to speak with your doctor, I will be right back,” Bankole waved at her.

She nodded at him. She hoped he wouldn’t return.

“I will come with you,” Mara followed Bankole out of the room.

“Is that her brother?” Shalewa watched them leave.

Didi tried not to laugh. Bankole was as fair as Mara. They had a slight resemblance.

“He is Didi’s ex-boyfriend.”

“Ah!” she looked from one to the other, “What is he doing here?”

“It is a long story,” she concentrated on the bowl of milky oatmeal.

“I am all ears.”

“Hmmm…” she spooned more food into her mouth.

“I hope he isn’t trying to … doesn’t he know that you are getting married?” Shalewa frowned.

Uwa hissed. He wished Bankole would disappear from their lives forever.

TORN (Chapter Forty-five)

She rolled on her side and squeezed her face. One side of her head was throbbing with a blinding ache. She took a deep breath, placed both hands on her head and sat up. She tried to swallow spittle, but, her mouth was unusually dry. She raised her head and looked around the room.

The bottle water on the bedside drawer was empty. She groaned and got down from the bed. Each step she made towards the door seemed to magnify the ache and the sharp twist she felt in her tummy accelerated her discomfort. She reached the door and turned the knob. It didn't bulge.

She frowned. She didn't lock the door. Why was it stiff?

She tried to open it again. It remained still. She bent her head and checked the knob. She discovered that the door had been locked on the otherside. She stood straight and frowned.

Who locked her up? Why was she locked up? What sort of games was the person playing?

A sharp pain pierced her tummy. She cried out, held her stomach and fell on her knees.

Oh God help me!

TORN (Chapter Forty-four)

"What are you doing here?" she eyed her sister with irritation.

"I live here. Remember?" she started to walk away.

She hissed and placed her hands on her curvy hips, "Just stay in your room, okay?"

She stopped and glanced back at her.

"Today is my introduction ceremony. Please stay out of sight."

She stared back at her younger sister in astonishment. The twenty one year old in her 200 level in the university was getting married? Why didn't anyone tell her? The thought that they didn't want her present at the party disgusted her.

"Why are you just standing there? Go to your room!"

She knitted her brows in a frown. She didn't like the way she was been spoken to. It was her parents' fault. In order not to make a scene, she held her tongue, turned on her heels and strode off.

Once in the comfort of her bedroom, her safe haven, she dropped the bags on the blue and white tiled floor and headed straight to the bathroom. A warm bath might calm her fried nerves. She hoped.

TORN (Chapter Forty-three)

Funmike drove home immediately after her last paper. She wasn't feeling well. Some of her course-mates tried to convince her to stay back and attend the end of semester party, but, she wasn't up to it. The stress of the examination period had gotten to her and she planned to stay indoors for the next few days and rest.

She was almost tempted to leave for Abuja and return once school resumed, but decided against it.
She noticed the fleet of cars in her father's compound when she drove in. The heavy sound of music coming from the house indicated an ongoing party. It dawned on her that she might not be able to rest that evening till probably after midnight. She groaned inwardly and got out of the vehicle. She opened the boot and pulled out her luggages.

She marched towards the house, dragging the bags after her. She met Folake on her way to her bedroom. She was gorgeously dressed in a brown and gold french lace. The long fish tail skirt and short-sleeve blouse fitted her perfectly.

TORN (Chapter Forty-two)

"Don't forget to send all the goodies. Eat alone, die alone."

"Hey! Funmike!"

"What?" she stepped out of the elevator.

"Okay, fine, I will send you kilishi from Yahuza Suya Spot."

Her mouth watered, "What else?"

"Long throat."

"If I hear..."

"Oliver Twist."

"Back to sender."

She heard him roar with laughter. She giggled and slow walked towards the navy blue Toyota Camry.

"I miss you."

She exhaled loudly, "I miss you too."

"Wish I could fly down to Lagos this evening."

She sighed with longing. She would give anything to see him that day.

"Can't wait to meet your parents and ask for your hand in marriage."

She smiled, unlocked the car and climbed in. Her coursemates got into the car and shut the door.

"Can you call me back? I am about to drive."

"Oh, okay. Later love."

She hung up and threw the phone into the bag. She started the engine, checked the front and side mirror and navigated the vehicle out of the car park. She caught a glimpse of her gold ring and smiled

TORN (Chapter Forty-one)

She walked out of the lecture hall with her black bag strapped to her shoulder and her car keys in the other hand. Four of her course-mates, a guy and three girls fell into step with her. They had become are regular passengers. They complained about the date of the first semester examination. She wasn't bothered because she had defended her project. She would be able to prepare for the examination without distractions. She heard the ringtone of her phone. She dipped a hand into the bag and brought out her Blackberry Passport and iphone.

"Hello."

"Hello love."

The sound of his voice warmed her heart, "Dante, you didn't call last night," she followed her course-mates into the elevator.

"I am so sorry. I got home late last night. I was worn out and I slept on an empty stomach."

"Aww..."

"The demand for our product is pretty high. We are producing twice as much. More workers have been employed. Things are pretty busier over here."

"More work, more money."

She heard him laugh.

TORN 40

While they waited for their turn to buy movie tickets, she opened her facebook profile on the iphone and saw the wedding pictures of her elder sister. Her eyes smarted with tears. It pained her that the bride didn't want her there. It was pathetic that her parents' attitude towards her had rubbed off on her sisters.

"What is it?"

She lifted her eyes, saw the worried look and passed the phone to him. He collected it and scanned the pictures. He returned the phone and drew her into his arms.

"Trust God and let him take control of every aspect of your life."

She buried her face in his chest and tried to calm her tumbling emotions.

"Lover birds, it's your turn," someone said behind them.

He released her and approached the lady at the ticket stand.

Funmike folded her hands across her chest. She prayed to God to give her the desire and will to forgive her parents and her sisters. She hoped that some day soon, they would all be able to relate with one another in love, without grudges.

TORN 39

Dantenimu and Funmike walked into the Millenium Park on his twenty-nigth birthday carrying a mat, food flask, a small cooler of drinks and a pack of candy. It was her fifth day in Abuja, yet, she hated the weather. How was she going to cope when she finally relocated to the city?

He spread the mat under a tree and arranged the food flask and the cooler at the edge. She sat down and placed the candy on the flask. He settled down beside her and held her by the waist.

"What do you think?" he grinned from ear to ear. She stared at him and giggled. His happy disposition was contagious.

"The park is quite big."

"It is massive," his dark eyes twinkled.

"True."

"Yahuza Suya Spot is our next point of call."

She beamed, "I have heard of their delicious grilled chicken and meat."

"One taste and you are hooked," he winked at her.

"I can't wait," her head bobbed.

"From there we will set off to the Galleria and relax with a movie."

"I like your plans."

Eyes locked. He leaned over and kissed her.

TORN 38

He opened his eyes and exhaled, "I believe that God brought us together and I know that you are the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with."

Shocked wide eyes, jaw agape. She had no idea that he felt strongly about her. She knew how much he liked her, but was oblivious to how deep his feelings were.

"I wanted to wait till you graduate before asking you out, but..." he gave a shake of head, "I have ran out of patience."

She fixed her gaze on him. It pleased her that he desired to be with her as much as she wanted to be with him.

"First thing tomorrow, I am going to buy an engagement ring."

"What?!"

He kissed her lightly, "I love you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you," his intensed gaze drilled into her surprised ones.

"I love you too," she confessed.

"I want us to get married right after your convocation."

"Isn't that too soon?"

"Nope. I want to wait till our wedding night before I touch you. The sooner we get married, the better."

She giggled and smiled in approval.

TORN 37

Funmike heard his dragged intake of breath, then felt the moist trail of his lips on the nape of her neck. Her heart beat accelerated and fell in rhythm with his.

Dantenimu claimed her lips. It was just as he had imagined. The soft, supple, sweet flesh captivated his mind and fired up his hunger.

She kissed him back, marching his intensity with the deep longing that took over her senses. She felt his hands underneath her shirt, handling her bosom. She sucked in breath as a tingling sensation coursed through her nerves.

Gently, he made her lay on her back and kissed her again. She trembled under his weight and felt the hardness of his manliness. The pressure aroused her, making her yearn for him like never before.

He raised his head and looked deep into her eyes. She stared back at him. The passion in his eyes marched the desire that welled up inside her.

"I want you."

"I want you too," she whispered.

He closed his eyes and tried to fight back the cravings that threatened to consume him.

TORN 36

He knocked, opened the door and peeped. He saw her seated on the bed, clad in a pink and red long-sleeve sweat-shirt and a white cotton baggy trouser. Her braids were weaved in a pony tail, giving her an angelic look.

"Ready to turn in for the night?"

She tilted her head, "I think so."

He strode into the room and settled at the edge of the bed.

"I didn't know that the harmattan in this part of the country can be so devilish."

He started to laugh.

"Thank God I came with a few jackets and sweaters."

"You will get used to it."

She snorted, "I doubt it," she noticed that he was still in the white sweat-shirt, but, had changed into a pair of blue shorts.

"I am so glad that you are here," his piercing dark eyes bore into her serene brown ones.

"I don't want to be anywhere else," her placid stare searched his face.

He moved over and wrapped his arms around her. She sighed with relief, basking in the warmth of his embrace. She placed her arms around his neck and inhaled the scent of his deodorant.

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TORN 35

She sat beside him and gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze, "I am so sorry," she blinked back tears.

"Thanks," he wiped his wet face with the back of his hand, "We bought this land when we came to Abuja, established Nice Baby Limited and tried to move on."

She thought she had issues. It dawned on her that Dantenimu and his parents were dealing with something worse.

"We are learning to lean on God and trust in him. He has remained faithful every single day."

She nodded with understanding.

"How long will you be staying?"

She shrugged, "Maybe till after the wedding."

His puzzled stare settled on her unhappy face, "Why?"

"She doesn't want me at her wedding," she choked with tears, "My parents inclusive," she began to sob.

"Even if the whole wide world cast you away, God will never, ever leave you or forsake," he wiped her tears away.

She sniffled and looked back at him.

"I am not going anywhere either," he smiled at her, "I have two guest rooms, you need to pick one," he helped her up.

TORN 34

"We used to live in Jos."

Her eyes flew up to meet his distant look. He held her bag in one hand and opened the door to the three bedroom bungalow with the other. She walked in after him.

"We relocated to Abuja many years ago after a life altering tragedy."

The sad glint in his eyes tugged at her heart.

"My siblings went to church one evening. I had a tummy ache, so I couldn't go..." he swallowed spittle.

Her concerned gaze remained on his face.

"They... they... a group of Jihadist locked everyone in the church and set the building on fire."

Overcomed by sorrow, she covered her mouth with both hands and tried not to scream.

"No one... no one survived," he dropped the bag and staggered to the seatee.

Funmike settled on the chair closest to her. She held his gaze and wished she could make his pain disappear.

"My mother lost her marbles and my father... my father..." he gave a shake of head, tears flowed.

She got up and went to his side. She couldn't imagine what they must have gone through.

TORN 33

"Dad, mum, meet my friend, Funmike Williams," he held her by the hand.

Two pairs of eyes observed her. She felt like a lab rat under a microscope.

"You are welcome dear," the dark skinned lanky elderly man grinned at her.

"Thank you sir," she smiled back at him. He was an older version of Dantenimu.

"How are you doing darling?" the dark skinned slim elderly woman broke into a smile.

Her initial fear disappeared, "I am fine ma."

"Let's go girl, goodnight folks," the curiousity in his parents' eyes made him grin. He could tell that they wanted to ask questions.

"Goodnight," she waved at them and allowed him to whisk her out of the room.

"My apartment is behind this mansion," he carried the luggage outside.

"Really?" she met his gaze.

"I almost moved out years ago, but, I decided to build a house on this land, so that I can watch and take care of my parents."

"I see..." she wasn't completely sure of what he meant. She walked behind him, trailing his long strides along the flowery pathway.

TORN 32

They got out of the white Jaguar and strode towards the white and brown five bedroom mansion. The compound reminded her of home. She frowned. Her father's house was far from being a home. It was more or less a roof over her head, a necessary habitat she hoped to leave as soon as she graduated.

Dantenimu opened the door and helped her to carry the bag into the house. She followed him in. The hallway was decorated with framed family photographs.

"Come," he reached out for her hand, "I think my parents are still awake."

She met his excited dark eyes. Her tummy turned over in fear. What if they don't like her? What was a twenty-eight year old man still doing in his father's house?

She stilled her emotions and allowed him to lead her into the first room in the hall. They sauntered into a beautifully furnished sitting room. White wall, cream curtains, brown rug, coffee brown leather chairs arranged in a semi-circle facing an 80 inch curved flat screen TV. She smiled in appreciation. She liked the room.

TORN 31

She sat on her luggage and folded her arms across her chest. She had heard of the harmattan period in the north, but the dry biting cold was worse than she had thought. The thick jean jacket she wore over the long-sleeve red blouse barely kept her warm. Her stiff feet made her eye the red boots with disdain. How did cold air seep in?

"Funmike."

She raised her head and saw him walking towards her in a jeans and a white long-sleeve sweat-shirt. He was more handsome than the first time she saw him face to face. The mere sight of him took her breath away.

Dantenimu hurried to her side and helped her up. She looked fairer, prettier and her long big brown shoulder length braids gave her a royalty look. Were his eyes deceiving him? The curvier hips and noticeably fuller bosom meant one thing. She had added a little weight.

He had been ecstatic when she called and asked him to pick her up at the airport. She was in Abuja on vacation. God had indeed given him an early Christmas gift- Funmike Williams.

TORN 30

She sat on the leather chair, wet face, red eyes.

"Hello."

"Dad it's Funmike."

"How are you dear?"

"Am fine. Daddy, Foluke doesn't want me at her wedding."

"Oh... well, you know, it's her wedding. She is allowed to do whatever makes her happy."

Her jaw dropped in shock. She couldn't believe that he would support Foluke, "But I am her sister."

"Yes, you are, but, you know the way people react when they see you with us."

She closed her eyes. The ache in her heart magnified.

"My family once accused your mother of having extra marital affairs. The DNA test you did vindicated her."

She opened her eyes and sighed.

"If our in-laws see you, they might get unnecessarily apprehensive."

She frowned, "How long are you going to keep hiding me from the world?"

He groaned, "I will credit your account today. Just go on a vacation, okay?"

Her chest tightened in pain. His refusal to acknowledge her before their in-laws and the whole world gnawed at her. It was worse than her elder sister's rejection.

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CHAPTER EIGHT

She heard a knock on her door and opened her drowsy eyes. Who could it be? It was probably Mara. She must have returned from work. She sat up and yawned. She had been in bed all day. She had not taken her bath, but, she had eaten thrice that day. The knocks persisted. She yawned again and stretched out.

“Come in.”

The door slid open. Mara walked in and tip-toed towards the bedside and bent her head.

“Hi,” she whispered.

"Hi…”

There was something different about her friend. Why did she tip-toed? Why was she speaking quietly to her? The glint in her hazel eyes spoke volumes.

“Someone is here to see you.”

She raised an eyebrow. Whoever it was, her friend was excited. She wondered who it could be.

“Bankole Williams is here to see you.”

She opened her mouth but no words came out. What was he doing in her home? Did Mara invite him?

“You smell!” she cried out in alarm, “You haven’t taken your bath,” she eyed her, “No wonder you are still in your night wear.”

Didi hissed and settled back on the bed.

“Ah-han… what is wrong with you? Get up now,” she shook her by the hand.

“Leave me jo. Did I ask him to come?”

“He is just here to check up on you,” she pulled her up to a sitting position.

“Oh-oooh,” she freed her hands from her firm grip.

"At least come and thank him for treating you last week.”

“Tell him that I am sleeping.”

"Put on a jacket or something.”

“I don’t want to see him. Is it by force?”

“Yes,” she pulled her from the bed.

“Mara!” she almost fell on the floor.

“You are a case,” she pushed her out of the room and dragged her into the sitting room.

“Mara leave me alone,” she struggled for her freedom, but her friend was determined to have her way.

Bankole got up from the cushion immediately he sighted them. Didi looked better than the last time he saw her. In another week, she would be strong enough to return to work and get back at whatever she did for a living. His breath caught in his throat when he noticed that she was in her night-wear. The pink silky knee length gown graced her slim frame in a seductive way.

“She refused to leave the comfort of her bed, I had to drag her out here,” Mara winked at him.

“Thank you,” he nodded at her and faced Didi, “I apologize for disturbing your beauty sleep.”

“It’s okay,” she folded her arms across her chest. She felt uncomfortable.

“Mara told me she lives with you. I begged her and she brought me along.”

“It’s okay,” she hoped he would leave soon.

“Won’t you offer him a drink or something?” she hit her on the shoulder. She glared at her friend. She felt like giving her a slap at that very moment.

“Don’t worry. I … I am… I will like to take my leave now,” he was finding it hard to calm his raging emotions. Seeing her that way, he felt like consuming her lips with kisses.

She felt relieved. She didn’t want his visit to linger. She could see Mara eyeing her from the corner of her eyes. The doorbell rang.

“Come in,” she said aloud.

The front door opened. Uwa walked in and met three pairs of eyes.

“Good evening doctor,” he recognized Bankole the instant he laid eyes on him.

“Good evening Mr. Onuwagbe,” they both shook hands.

He nodded at Mara and noticed his fiancée standing at a corner, clad in her night wear.

“Hi…” Didi smiled at him but the displeasure in his eyes erased it.

“I have to leave. Take care of yourself Didi,” Bankole glanced at her.

“I will see you off to your car,” Mara escorted him out of the flat.

She scratched a spot on her scalp and met his dark gaze.

“How was your day?”

“Fine,” he seized her up.

“Can I get you something to eat?”

“No.”

Was he upset with her? What did she do wrong now?

"Who is Doctor Bankole Williams to you?”

His question alerted her. She turned her head away and rubbed a hand on her shoulder.

“Well… he was the last guy I dated before I met you.”

He remained silent for a while. She settled into the chair closest to her.

“When were you planning to tell me that he was your ex?”

She heard the anger in his voice. She cleared her throat and bit at her lower lip. She had no intention of telling him anything. She never thought she would see Banky again. It was Mara’s fault. Why did she bring him to the house? She could have given him her number if he wanted to check up on her. What was that crazy girl up to?

“I don’t know what your plans are, but if it includes the doctor, then count me out.”

She opened her mouth and closed it. What was wrong with him now?

“What are you talking about?” she looked up at him.

“Who knows, your presence in Lekki last weekend might be more than a coincidence.”

Her brows came together in a frown.

“It is so obvious that he is still interested in you. May be you also want him back.”

She began to shake her head. Why was he thinking that way? Was he deliberately picking a fight with her?

“I want you to think over your life and decide on what you really want. When you are done, you know where to find me.”

Her dark brown eyes smarted with tears.

“Have a good night,” he turned and walked out.

She blinked and tears rolled down her creamy brown face. She was going to kill Mara. She was sure she engineered her reunion with Bankole.

Nevertheless, it didn’t give Uwa the right to speak to her that way and accuse her. She had just had a miscarriage, she was recuperating, she needed rest and a sound mind, not squabbles with her fiancé. If he felt threatened by her ex, he should man up and stand his ground. It was no fault of hers that her ex showed up out of the blues. If it was true that he wanted her back, he was two years too late.

xxxxxx

He drove into Sweet Sensation car park and looked for a good spot to park his car. He killed the engine and got out of the vehicle. He would buy some snacks or a plate of fried rice and grilled pepper chicken. He was hungry and in no shape to cook when he returned home. He locked the car and headed for the entrance of the eatery. His thoughts were wrapped around his fiancée. He had been too hard on her. He had no choice. He wasn’t prepared to waste his time on someone that doesn’t genuinely want him. He had a feeling that Bankole would fight to win her back. She needed to decide on what she wanted, her past relationship or the new blossoming one. He met a crowd in the eatery. It was as if the whole Lagos had gathered in the restaurant.

“Hello Uwa.”

He heard his name from right behind him. He turned around and saw Bankole a few feet away from him.

Talk of the devil himself.

His dark brows came together in a frown.

“We better join the queue or else, we might be here till midnight.”

“I don’t think I can wait,” he turned towards the exit.

Bankole laughed to himself. Uwa walked back to his car. His frown deepened when he realized that the doctor had followed him.

“Can I help you?” he unlocked the white Skoda.

“Not really,” he grinned.

What was amusing him? He had no intention of having a non-profitable conversation with his competition.

“I love Didi. I will always love her.”

His eyes widened at the doctor’s bluntness. He was right after all. The guy wanted his fiancée back.

“I want you to know upfront that I am going to win back her love.”

“Good luck with that,” he got into the car and started the engine. Bankole backed away and watched him nose into the busy road. Uwa might have a good physique and an Adonis face, but it was all plain flesh. All that mattered was Didi’s heart.

A woman’s heart was like the deep blue ocean. It was difficult to know all that goes on in there. He was sure that somewhere in her heart, she still felt something for him. Once he could fan those old flames and rekindle her love for him, not even Uwa would be able to stop her from returning to him.

God bless you Mara.

He owed her for reuniting him with his lost love. He walked back to the eatery. He hoped the crowd would disperse soonest. He pulled out his blackberry phone from his pocket and began to compose a poem. He would send her dozens of short love poems. He wanted her to think of him. If she does, she would dream of him. Once he was in her dreams, piece by piece, he would take over her heart before she realized what was happening to her.

“Eureka!” he punched his fist into the thin air. Everything was working according to his excellent plan.

CHAPTER SEVEN

A tall slightly slim fair skinned beauty walked into his office and shut the door behind her. She smiled and took a seat behind the desk. The blue striped blouse she wore glued to her body like a second skin, making her bosom look ready for consumption.

“Good evening Banky,” she flashed him a set of white teeth.

“Amarachi, to what do I owe this… unannounced visit.”

She laughed, “Doctor, I was in the area. I thought I should say hi.”

“Really?” he cleared his throat and tried to take his eyes off her chest, “All the way from Ikorodu to Lekki?”

“Banky, I don’t stay in Ikorodu anymore.”

“Interesting,” he clasped his hands and placed it on the table.

“Work has brought me closer to town.”

“I see.”

“I stay in Shomolu now.”

“How are your parents?”

“Good.”

“So, what can I offer you?”

“Why don’t we eat out?”

He raised an eyebrow.

“Let’s catch up on old times,” she crossed her legs. The black pencil mini skirt she was wearing exposed a considerable amount of flesh.

He loosened his collar button, “What is really on your mind?”

She grinned, “You never liked beating about the bush.”

He leaned against the grey coloured leather chair.

“I am here because of Didi.”

The sound of her name set his heart racing. He loosened another button and started to cough. His eyes darted around. He found a bottle of water under the table. He reached out for it, opened it and down the content.

“Do you still want her back?”

He threw the empty bottle into a waste basket adjacent to the table and met her hazel eyes. They were dead serious.

“It doesn’t matter what I want. She made it clear two years ago that she didn’t want anything to do with me.”

She opened her turquoise colour pouch and brought out a big red envelope. She threw it on the table. He picked it up and opened it. It was a wedding invitation card. He saw the names of the couple. He frowned and threw the envelope back at her. It fell on her lap.

“We can stop the wedding.”

He eyed her, “How?”

“Terminate the pregnancy. It will halt the wedding plans and give you enough time to win back her heart.”

“Wait a minute. What pregnancy?”

She smiled. The true scenario clarified in his head. His light brown eyes brightened in shock. He began to shake his head.

“This is a golden opportunity to get back the love of your life”

“You don’t understand.”

“Yes, I do.”

He shook his head again.

“The fact that you cheated on her twice shouldn’t stop you. She loved you.”

He hit a fist on the table, “That was two years ago,” his nostrils flared.

“Then convince her that you have turned a new leaf.”

He looked away.

“You have changed, haven’t you?”

“Of course,” he scratched a spot on his head.

“Good. The wedding is in four weeks. We need to act fast.”

He bit at his lower lip, “This is crazy.”

“I know,” she got up and circled the desk.

“I don’t want to hurt her.”

“You won’t. You are a very good doctor.”

“I am still in love with her.”

“Good,” she pulled him up. He was at least two inches shorter than her.

“I never stopped loving her.”

“You are right on track,” she began to kiss one of his ears.

He pulled away and looked up at her, “What are you doing?”

“Giving you what you have always wanted.”

He blinked. She was crazier than he thought.

“While you dated Didi two years ago, you lusted after me.”

He eyed her. She was right. He had always desired her.

“You can have me now, once and for all. This is my way of paying you for what you are going to do.”

He grinned from ear to ear and turned her towards the table. Finally, she was right where he wanted her.

xxxxxx

Uwa unlocked the front door. He strode into the apartment and went straight to the kitchen. He needed a cold drink. He had been busy for most part of the day. As an Information Technology expert, he consulted for several firms and at times, his work consumed his weekends. It was a good thing that he had decided to build his own business rather than remain working for one company. Although it came with its ups and down, it was very rewarding, especially when one was diligent, confident, available and accessible. He had placed his business in God’s hands and things had been running smoothly. He took a can of malt from the refrigerator, opened it and down its content. He threw the empty can in waste basket. He felt refreshed. A cold bath would give him more satisfaction. He would turn in early for the night. He needed to be in church very early the next day. He was supposed to follow a group of Protocol department members to pick up a guest minister at the hotel. The man was preaching in his church that morning. His blackberry phone began to ring. He pulled it out of his trouser pocket and picked the call.

“Hello.”

“Uwa…”

He recognized Mara’s voice, “Yes.”

“It is Didi, she is bleeding.”

His chest tightened, “How? What is going on?”

“Meet us at Heritage hospital in Lekki.”

How did they get to Lekki? Didi had called him that morning that she would be doing some shopping that day. Why Lekki? What happened to the markets on the mainland?

“I can’t handle this on my own.”

“Okay, okay, I am on my way.”

He groaned at the thought of driving all the way to Lekki. It was weekend and he knew the roads would be filled with crazy drivers. He lived in Palm Groove Estate. It would take him hours to get to the Island. Where was Heritage hospital anyway? He returned the phone to his pocket and headed out.

xxxxxx

He parked his white Skoda car in the driveway of the hospital. He killed the engine and got out. He hurried into the brown and white painted building and found Mara in a crowded waiting room.

“Thank God you are here,” she approached him.

“Where is she?” the worry and anxiety in his voice wasn’t lost to her.

“She is still in the theatre.”

“Wow!” he stood akimbo.

What is the meaning of this? God please protect my darling.

She seized him up. He looked cute in the white long sleeve shirt and ash coloured chinos trousers. She noticed a fair skinned man walking towards them.

“That is the doctor.”

He looked in her direction and saw a man about five feet seven inches tall with a plump physique in a white coat.

“Good evening, you must be Didi’s fiancé,” he stretched out his hand.

“Yes, call me Uwa,” he shook his hand.

“I am doctor Bankole Williams.”

“How is she?”

“Please come with me,” he led them down the hall way, into one of the offices. He pulled off his white coat and sat on the leather chair. Uwa and Mara took the seats behind the desk.

“She is fine.”

"Thank God,” he made a sigh of relief.

"I was so scared,” she squeezed him by the shouldered.

Banky cleared his throat. They turned to look at him.

“I am sorry to inform you that she lost the baby.”

His smile faded and was replaced with an angry expression.

“What! Oh my God…” she held him by the hand.

“That is impossible,” he stood up.

He leaned back on the chair, “She had a miscarriage.”

He looked heavenwards.

God why? That was my first baby.

“Uwa, I am so sorry,” she held his hand, “I think it is the wedding plans that stressed her out.”

“What plans?” he glared at her, “What were you both doing in Lekki in the first place?”

She opened her mouth and glanced at the doctor, then back at him.

“What kind of shopping were you both doing?”

“You can see her now if you are ready,” he picked up his coat and got up.

Uwa marched out.

“That is one angry fiancé.”

Mara hissed, “We did both of them a favour.”

“I didn’t know my competition was six footer.”

“That is the least of your problem.”

“I have a feeling that you want him all to yourself.”

She eyed him, “Concentrate on Didi and leave the rest to me.”

He started to laugh.

She shifted the chair backwards and got up.

“I need all her info.”

“I will text or mail them to you.”

“Fantastic. Let us go and see the sleeping beauty.”

She smiled and followed him out of the office.

CHAPTER SIX

She panicked as she walked into the company’s Sick bay. One of her colleagues had informed her that her friend had fainted in the office and the in-house nurse was attending to her. She had just resumed work that week after a long suspension. What could possibly be wrong with her now? She might eventually get sacked if she doesn’t put herself together. She found her seated on one of the beds. The room was empty.

“What happened to you?” she folded her hands across her chest and leaned against the wall.

“I fainted,” she met her friend’s concerned gaze.

“I was told,” she eyed her, “What did the nurse say?”

“She ran some tests.”

“And?” she sat on the bed.

She looked away and bit at her lower lip.

“What did she say?”

“I am… I am preg… am pregnant.”

Her hand flew to her opened mouth. Didi was pregnant with Uwa’s child! Her hazel eyes turned red.

“How could you?”

She faced her.

“How did this…” she pointed at her tummy, “… happen.”

She blinked. It looked like her friend was about to cry. Why?

“We didn’t plan it. We… well… we only did it once… okay twice.”

“Once is enough to get you pregnant dummy!”

"Hey!” fried nerves.

“Hey yourself,” she got to her feet, “Jesus Christ,” she gritted her teeth.

She watched her. Why was she upset? It seemed her friend hasn’t gotten over Uwa’s preference for her.

“Why didn’t you take some pills or something?” her hazel eyes scanned her like an insect.

“Did I tell you I was in the habit of sleeping around?” she was beginning to get upset.

“You should have been smart enough to tell him to use a condom.”

“He doesn’t sleep around either. You don’t expect someone like that to have a pack of condom stashed somewhere in his flat.”

Mara shook her head and began to pace the room. They were dumber than she thought, “And to think of it, you always go around saying sex before marriage is a no, no for you.”

She eyed her, “I stand by that.”

She halted and looked at her, “And you slept with him?”

“It wasn’t planned.”

“Yeah right.”

She lay back on the bed and faced the wall. She wished Mara would stop looking for faults and act like a friend for once.

“Beautiful, this is just beautiful,” she smoothed her braids with her hands. They were beginning to look rough.

“I am keeping the baby.”

“What!” she looked at her. She was still facing the wall.

“It doesn’t matter if he wants it or not. I will keep the baby.”

Her heart missed a beat. What if he also wanted to keep the baby? That would be bad news for her. She could lose him forever.

“People like us actually look up to people like you when it comes down to doing things God’s way.”

She smiled and turned on her side, “Next time, don’t look up to people like us. Just do what the good book says, follow Jesus and try to be more like Him.”

“Whatever. You are a disappointment,” she turned on her heels and navigated her way out of the room.

She ran her creamy brown fingers through her dark smooth shoulder length retouched hair. It felt soft and silky in her hands. Her friend’s words had hurt. She had done her own share of blaming herself. She didn’t need to be judged by anyone else. She closed her eyes.

Oh God… what have I done?

She gritted her teeth.

Uwa, what have we done?

xxxxxx

He picked up his girlfriend at the office that noon and drove her home. He helped her into the flat and got her settled in, tucked into bed and ready for a long nap.

“Where you given any medication?” her health troubled him.

She shook her head, “The nurse told me to rest and eat well.”

He nodded, “Okay.”

She bit at her lower lip. How was she going to break the news to him? He searched her face. Was something bordering her? She looked a bit worried.

“What is it?”

She turned her head.

"Talk to me.”

She directed her full attention towards him, “I am pregnant.”

He blinked and stared back at her. She is pregnant? They had only done it twice. Was that enough to produce a baby?

“Okay.”

“I am keeping the baby,” she tried to read the expression on his face.

“Okay. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

She sighed with relief. She wouldn’t have subscribed to abortion if he had suggested it. Abortion was murder. It doesn’t matter what the society or those baby assassins who called themselves medical doctors painted it to be.

“I know I got us into this situation.”

She reached out for his hand and squeezed it, “I am equally responsible.”

He nodded, “We allowed our emotions to rule our heads,” he reached out for her other hand.

She took comfort in that gesture.

“I don’t want a baby out of wedlock.”

She blinked, trying to grasp what he meant. Was he changing his mind? She paled.

“We are both born again Christians. People will judge us and blame you.”

She held her breath and tightened her grip on his hand.

“I want to cover your shame. Even if you weren’t pregnant, I would have asked you this question in a couple of months’ time.”

She looked into his dark eyes. What was he trying to say?

“I love you. Please marry me, be my wife, the mother my children.”

Her eyes smarted with tears. She exhaled and nodded, “Yes, I will marry you.”

He smiled and pulled her into his arms. His warmth soothed her nerves and melted her worries and fears.

“I love you Onuwagbe Daniel Okosun.”

He became still. The way she pronounced his names felt like a cool bath. He pulled away and stared at her. She had just confessed that she loved him too. He had been waiting for her to say those words.

“I love you too,” he claimed her lips and she responded to his kiss. He groaned and released her, “The sooner we get married, the better.”

She chuckled and used her hand to fan her face, “It is getting hot in here.”

He laughed and got up, “Let me go. I will call you later.”

“All right love.”
He blew her a kiss and strode out. She leaned back on the bed. She was getting married.

“Halleluiah!” she raised her hands and shook it. She drew up the blanket, covered her face and threw it away. She sat up and started to dance, “I am getting married! I am getting married!”

xxxxxx

Mara met Didi watching a movie on the television when she returned from work. She went to her room, took a shower and got into her pajamas. She planned to eat and go to bed early. She had a lot to do at the office the next morning. She was also eager to know the outcome of her friend’s discussion with her boyfriend. She hoped they both agreed to do an abortion. That pregnancy could wreck her plans. She heard a knock on her door.

“Come in.”

Didi opened the door and walked in. She was surprised to see her friend in her pajamas.

“Hi.”

“Hi yourself,” she picked up a pillow and sat on the bed.

“I want you to be my maid of honour.”

What was she talking about? What does she need a maid of honour for? It was only brides that needed best ladies. Was Didi getting married?

“Are you getting married?”

She nodded and smiled. Mara felt as if a train had just run over her. Did Uwa propose? That dumb son of a woman. How could he?

“You are still my best friend, despite our differences. I want you there, right beside me on the D-day.”

Her friend must be crazy. Watching her get married to him will be the death of me.
She must stop the wedding. They cannot get married. If he proposed to her because of the pregnancy, maybe the wedding would be cancelled if that pregnancy disappeared. She needed to hatch out a plan. She would not rest until he was hers only.

“My parents will be so excited. I am the first out of their three children and I am the only girl. Do you know that Uwa’s parents have only boys, no girls? They are dying to have me as their daughter-in-law.”

“Really?” she tried to concentrate on what she was blabbing about, but, all she wanted to do was to slap her silly or worse, strangle her. That would bring her so much pleasure. She grinned.