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POHB
EPISODE 23


AS SHE DWELL ON THE THOUGHTS OF MANNY'S DISAPPEARANCE...... Raw tears soaked with the water running from the shower vault began to flow down her cheek...... She cross her hands on her shoulders.... Her fingers touching her neck.....

She quickly sat down on the wet cold tiles, the water sprinkling out from the tiny holes.... She thought about the threats..... Manny was in great danger and she has no hint how to help her....

More tears rush down her cheek tinge with the water dropping on her knee.... She was confused....
She sniff,quickly stood up and turn off the shower.. She grabbed her towel and tied it around her......
With a deep snort she step out of the bathroom into her room.....
Her inner mind scream to her that she can do it.. She can find Manny....
She sob... More uncontrollable tears flush out of her eyes...
She quickly wipe them off with the tip of the towel..

Manny isn't dead... She believes so.... She shouldn't be crying....
She quickly apply her cream on her face... Not bothering to rub her leg....
She open the drawer and pick up a pile of G-string..... She gritted and chose the pink....
Without hesitation.. She quickly change into jean trouser and a blue polo....
Exasperation rush through her when she remenbered it was Francis who had actually bought the polo for her. As a gift....

She sniff... Inclined to change into another shirt....
She ignored the thought... The polo was hers now... That bastard won't ruin her day....
She quickly walk out of the room and headed for the sitting room..

A feeling of precipitousness overcloud her as she saw Sharon reading Manny's diary.... ..."What are you doing?

Sharon grunt... Then she rolled her eyes fixating them on her..... "Reading Manny's diary.... "

Mary puff.... Then she walk close to her... With a huff she sat beside her.... "So have you seen anything that can be useful....?

"Other than knowing she use to date the senator..... "she nib her lips... "Nothing... "

"Why is it i don't know Manny once had a thing with the senator.....?

"Should i know that.....? Sharon snapped with her gaze still in the diary....... She exhales then shift her gaze to her.... "I guess she didn't trust you enough... "

"No... That isn't it.... "Mary said with a feeling of skepticism...... "You know more than you are letting me on... "

"I don't know Mary..... Manny only tell me things when she feels like.... "

Mary squealed.... For a moment she just sat staring at her...... "On the last sheet Manny has written on, she wrote something about sun.... "She said flipping to the sheet.....

"You've told me that before Mary... I told you i don't know whoever sun is.... "

"Don't just say you don't know.... Think... Manny could have slip out something to you... "

She huffs and drop the diary on her hand... "If Manny did... I wouldn't be this surprised.... I don't know....."

Mary knit her brows..... "Okay.. Do you remember any of her friends...someone.. Anyone she go out with besides us... "

"I don't know Mary but i do know something..... "

"What's that....?

She snort..... "Pope thinks...

"You still talking to Pope.... "Mary scowled standing up from the chair....

"Will you just let me finish.... "She resounded..... Took a slight pause then continued..... "Pope thinks Manny was running from someone.....

"Was.....?

"Yes was.... "She snarled.... "For all we know whoever she was running from must have caught her.... "

Mary gritted.... "I don't believe this.. You told Pope about Manny's disappearance....

"Oh please don't give me that.... "She cut in harshly standing up from the chair and facing her squarely..... "Everyone out there knows about Manny's disappearance.... You made sure of that when you started blabbing your mouth to anyone who shows up at the doorstep.... Pope is not an exception..... "

Mary hissed faintly..... "What else does Pope knows...?

"Pope knows nothing... What i told you was just a thought..... "

"And you believe that....?

Sharan snort.... Exasperation raging through her... "Did you believe me when i said Francis knows something more than he was telling us....?

"That was different...... Francis was innocent... The message proved it.... "

Sharon grunts... "Look i get it, you don't like Pope, i don't like Francis.... We've always know the feeling was mutual... So this whole accusation of a thing is totally based on hatred....

"I don't hate Pope... I just dislike his ways of doing things....

"Same thing... "Sharon blasted out....

Mary exhales as Sharon furiously sat back on the chair.....
She was about to apologize when a knock came on the door.....

Fear grip Sharon.... "Didn't you lock the gate....?

"You came in last.... "

Heart battered with angst... She quickly stood up and began to move away from the door....

"Where are you going...? Mary ask in a faint tone....

"Getting something for protection.... "She whisper to her....

They both quivered when a fermine voice sounded from outside......

"Na who dey hia....?

Spines shivering... Mary stare out from the window..... She sigh, a sigh of relief when she saw three girls.... She quickly turn to face Sharon.... "It's just girls... "

She quickly walk to the door... Hesitated a bit.. Thoughts running in her head.... she ignored all and opened the door....
For a moment she just stare at the three girls... Chewing gum pattering and clattering in their mouth.. "Who are you....?

"We dey find our madam.... "One of the girl's spoke up....

"Your. Madam....."Mary intoned shock griping her....

Slowly Sharon summon courage and went close to her....

The girls didn't reply.. They just stood shooting the chew gum at her face....

"I don't understand.. Who is your madam...?

"Madam Manny.... "The girl who first spoke up resounded....

"Manny.... Madam for what?Mary quickly ask potent in her voice....

The girl glance at the other two then she shift her gaze to Mary again.... "Shuuuuu.... Na wich kind questions be all dis ones na.... She dey abi she nor dey.... ?

"Are you girls prostitutes..... ?Sharon ask impetuously...

The girl eyed her.... "We nor be prostitutes, we be commercial workers.. "She snarled...

"What do you want with Manny? Mary ask...

"Bae.... All dis tough tough questions wen you dey ask me so, e don begin put para for my body o... So i go revisit my first question.... She dey abi she nor dey.....?

"Manny is not here... "Mary replied.....

"Na whre she com dey, bcoz we don call her numba tire.. She nor dey pick o... She nor know say gbehey dey ground o...

"What gbehey are you talking about... ?Sharon intoned

The girl sigh.... "Nor be ona i suppose to dey tel... Na madam ear ni dis info dey for....

"Well your madam isn't home... She has been missing for a week now..... "Mary said... Exasperation in her voice...

"Emm....!the girl boom out leaning her ears to her face..... "Manny wetin.... Whre she com enta.... ?

"Well we will be able to figure that out if you tell us the problem on ground... What's this whole gbehey about....?

"Jasmine we are leaving.... "One of the girls said...

"Wait na... U nor hear wetin dis bae dey yarn so.. You wan shoot off like dat"

"Well we have someone to catch up with... We are leaving.. Call us when you are through.... "Those were her last words before they walk out of the compound leaving Jasmine there...

Jasmine suck her teeth then she shift her gaze to Sharon and Mary...

"Why aren't you joining them?Sharon queried...

Jasmine eyed her..... "Na wa for youoo, you dey ask dat kine question wen you know say something dey shele with manny... Na wa to you, if i talk true, you nor try at all.... Shuuuuu

Mary exhales... Then she bit her lip.... "Okay... Why don't you tell us what the problem is... What's going on....?

"I nor go go inside... Na here i wan begin put tori for ground.... "

Mary glance at Sharon...

"No she is not coming into this house....?Sharon said quickly....

Jasmine lour her eyes at her.... "Na who be dis one... Abeg commot from road mak i pass.... "she pushed her aside as the words drip from her mouth..... "Yanyanyanyanyanyan... Rubbish... "

Sharon was about to rush at her from behind when Mary stopped her....
"Come on.. She might give us a clue to where Manny is... "Mary muttered...

Sharon groan.. Then she yanked off her hand from Mary....

Jasmine slack-jawed her eyes as she look round the house... "Baes... Omo.. Dis house fine o... "She marvelled...... She shift her gaze to them.... "So na here madam dey stay..... No wonda she nor dey gree mak we visit... "

"What do you mean she doesn't agree for you to visit..? Mary ask anxiously..

"Na exactly wetin i mean o.. If you nor understand, leav am like dat... My mouth dey pain me, i nor get strength to begin explain..... "She look round the house again.... "Shuuuu... Jehovah is lord... Who be the mugu wen say money nor good... "

Irritated, Sharon walk to her front.... "Alright that's it.... Can you tell us what's going on....?

Jasmine grunt and sat down..... "'na wetin be your own self... Your blood too dey hot.. Person nor go fit drink water drop cup for your matter... Na wa to you oo"

"Please tell us.... We think Manny is in danger.... "Mary said in a more quiet voice....

She shoot the chew gum.. Then she took it out from her mouth.... "Shuu.. I don tire.. Person don dey hungry.... "She said putting the chew gum in the hand of the chair...

"There is not a waste bin.... "Sharon said harshly

Jasmine ignored her...pick up the chew gum and put it in back of her ear.....

"Can you please tell us now..? Mary ask...

Jasmine insutilate.... "Na some grabbys o.... They just com raid our house... All we friends come dey run anyhow... Make them for nor pick them.. Including me o, i run too....

"Wait.... "Mary interjects..... Doubting the possibility of her thought.... "Are you telling me Manny owns a brothel... ?

"You dey ask like say to get brot... Anything wen you call amm na bad tin.... You know how many girls for the street madam don help....

"Oh my God... Manny owns a brothel.... "Mary boomed out...

"When last did you see Manny....? Sharon ask shapily...

Jasmine began to think.. Dragging her eyebrows closer.... "I don remember... Na dat day wen she folo dat fine bobo wen dey call sunday commot.... "

Shock swept through Mary.... "Sunday... "She resounded...

"You know the boy...?

Ignoring her question... Mary quickly drool her eyes to find the diary mistakenly touching Jasmine bum...

"Na why you dey touch my ynash na.. "Jasmine blast out adjusting herself...

Mary found it and flip to the last sheet.... "Manny mentioned she was falling for sun in her diary....

"So what are you saying....? Sharon ask...

"Sunday... Sun... Oh my God.... Sunday could be sun"




WHAT MORE LIES BENEATH....

TO BE CONTINUED

KINGS
EPISODE 129


ANNABEL JUST STOOD SHAKING... HER HANDS TREMBLING WITH FEAR at the realization of what just happened.... She is dead.. Her friend is dead and is her fault.......
"Oh God Jacob.... Sh..... e...

"Oh please shut up, i know that already.... "Jacob raved at her still looking at the body.. Hoping.. Wishing she wakes up and tell them she is just pretending.......

Annabel sniff... ...discomposure pinning through her....a foreboding feeling taunting her spines... What have they done.....
Her hands.. Palm, fingers propelled with fear.. ..."What do we do now.. We can't leave her here.. If the police....

"Hey just shut up..... "Jacob cut in harshly..... He suck in breathe.. Put his right palm on his head.... He spun around thinking of the ideas that could help him out of the situation.....

"Jacob....

"Let me think.... "he interjects.... Sweat dropped down his face.... He pace around... Then stood and stare at the body... Her blood rubbing the floor.. Her eyes open....

"If the police start asking how she died.. What are we going to say....? Annabel ask with trembling mouth...

He took a deep drag.... Sniff.... "Look it was an accident.... The police won't even know anything.....

"Then we have to call an ambulance....

"No ambulance.... "he cut in with a snort...... "I don't want anyone to start thinking we have a hand in her death....

"Then what do we do...?

He insutilate... Roam around the room.. Confused..... Adrenaline suck through him.... His fingers clenching against each other..... "We have to lie low till night falls..... "

She bug her eyes as consternation swept through her..... "Nightfalls..... What are you planning on doing..... ?

"Do you want people to know she died here....in your house...?

His question sent cold chills down her spine..... She shivered accimilating the horrors she has gotten herself into......

He flex his fingers..... "When night comes, am going to dump her body on the road or the gutters"

She quivered... Mouth slack-jawed.... "Oh my God Jacob, she is your wife.. You can't do that to her....

"What do you want me to do... Take her home.. Lie her on the bed..... She is dead..... "He resounded.....

"Dumping her on the road is not the right thing to do.....

"Well i can leave her here for you if that's what you want....

She sniff and more tears drop from her eyes......

"Do you have any idea who i am... Am the son of one of the chief's.....My reputation will be tarnished if people find out i mistakenly killed my own wife....

"But...

"No but.... We are dumping her body in the gutters tonight... Whoever sees her tomorrow morning will raise alarm... People will think she got drunk and fell in the gutters killing herself in the process......."

"This isn't right Jacob... It isn't..... "



*******************************
WITH his staff of authority in his hand and two guards by his side, Desmond walk to the garden.....
He quickly ordered the guards to stay a few pace away, away from earshot....
He smile when he saw him, sitting on one of the chairs under the tree, drinking his glass of cocktail.....
He roam his eyes on his dressing.. He was nicely dress, his hair trimmed almost to a low cut.... He quickly went towards him

"Your majesty..... "Jerone muttered when Desmond was fully seated....

"Jerone.... See how four years have changed you.. I barely recognized you"

Jerone chulkled..... "We can say that goes both ways.... "He said and gulp down a bit of the cocktail....

Desmond gave him a wry smile.... "So how has business be treating you... Still killing people for the cash.... "

Jerone scoffs... "Your majesty..... I don't do such jobs anymore... Am my own man now... Who is contended with the legal business he runs.... "

"Haven't you heard the saying... Once a killer... Always a killer..... "

Jerone jut his chin..."And i bet you didn't invite me all the way from the city just to tell me that"

"Am your king Jerone... You answer to me when i call"He snapped....

"Am not from this kingdom... That makes you... Not my king"

Desmond giggled.... "Do you know i can cut you down where you sit right now....

Jerone pout... A snort followed...he pick up the glass again... "You can try"

"You are lucky am a changed person now.....

"Yes i can see that... Your wife.... "He puff"I mean the queen must be doing a better job.....

"You left after the wedding.. Without a goodbye.... You just disappeared.....

Jerone drop the glass down... "I thought there was nothing here for me anymore.... So i dashed out... You can say on a quest to find greener pastures.....

"And have you found it....?

"Found and developed "

Desmond smile.. Then he cross his legs.... "Do you know why i invited you here?

"That, am very curious about..... You sounded so urgent.. What is that you couldn't tell me on phone... "

"I couldn't tell you on the phone because it's not something that can be discussed on phone..... "

"So what is it then...?

Desmond snort.... "Is there by any chance.. I mean is it possible for a dead person to tell someone that is alive how he died.....?

Jerone pout.... Then he saw the anxiousness in his eyes..... "Let me guess... Our queen is seeing her ex-boyfriend who you killed....

"Who you and your men killed.... "Desmond snapped

Jerone widened his eyes...."A good way to turn it on me.... "

"What was his name....? Desmond ask anxiously...

"Whose name....?

Desmond spun around... Making sure the guards were out of earshot.... "That bastard name"He scowled....

"Oh......"Jerone exclaimed moving his eyebrows down and closer...... "Rick... His name was Rick"

Desmond quivered... A deep breathe followed.... "She has been screaming that name in her sleep... Do you think the bastard is trying to tell her something..... "

"I don't know.... Maybe you should ask a spiritualist....... What could a dead person possibly tell a living person... It's her subconscious that is making her see those things.... If you ask me, i think she still have some tiny feelings for that ghost..... "

"Speaking of ghost.... Strange things have been happening in the palace... My daughter seeing things.. The maid crying.. I think his ghost is here.... wandering around....

"Your majesty... Don't believe on those things... Ghost don't exist.... There is a deep Long bridge between the world of the ghost and that of the living.....

Desmond exhales.. Then lean his back on the chair..... "How are your boys... Hope you silent them....?

"Are you scared one of them may be blabbing out our secret....?

Desmond frown..... "I take threats seriously. And you just sound like you are making one....... Am still your king, you will respect me.. "

"Your majesty...... My boys knows how to keep a secret.... Besides they are far from this town.. So no one is going to find out.....

"Good...... "He scowled..... "You can stay for the night as my guest..... "

He beem a faint smile in his face..... "I will love to do that, but i have to leave. I have a family waiting....

"You married...?

"With two beautiful kids...... Twin.... "

"Well then, i think we are done here... You can leave whenever you wish as long our secret is kept within the walls of your mouth... We have no problem.... "

"Of course your majesty.... No problem.... "



***************************
The six chiefs sat and wait impatiently for the computer man to come in....
Each of them thinking of the possibility that it might be him.. It could be him..

Carlos already ask Ted and Bobby and they had said they killed him... They shot him and watched him die....

It wasn't long before the man walked him....
He greeted the chiefs, some responded while the rest just snub....

"Do you have the information...... ?Carlos ask anxiously...

The man nodded holding a long sheet of paper in his hand...... "It's turns out he is not who you think.... "

"Not who we think... What are you even saying.... "Chief Joseph cut in sharply.... "Just tell us who he is... "

The man snort.... "Ferico Harare Abrad was born in 1987 in the eastern plains of Botswana.....

"Just tell us how he got his money... Skip the history... "Carlos said

The man took a deep drag.. Sucking in all the air he can get......"At the age of twenty-five.... He got married to a wealthy woman by the name Florence Carter...... It was reported three years later that the woman died, willing everything to him..... "

"How is that even possible.... Does she have no child....? Chief Marcus ask...

"Yes she does.... "The man replied.... "Two grown men, Frederick and Lucas but they died mysteriously over the years... No one knows the course.. No one could explain... So no one was apprehended for their dead..... All fingers pointed to Ferico when the woman also died but there was no prove that he was responsible for her dead... It was believed the woman died of natural course...

"So the woman doesn't have any relations to will some property to.....? Chief Ayu ask

"Yes she had a brother and a niece but......

"But what....? Buzo ask...

"They died in a motor accident....... The man did survive for some hours, when he realised his daughter was no more. It was foretold Ferico lured him into signing everything to him.. Which the man did... Before he died.....

"So Ferico has both the sister's and brother's property......

"Including the children...... "The man added... "People suspected he killed them, but no one could prove it...... He took on the name Carter adding it to his name... Ferico Abrad Carter.... People fear this man. He is ruthless.... Whoever Ferico Carter really is chiefs...... One can easily detect..... He is dangerous



TO BE CONTINUED

POHB
EPISODE 22


WHAT IS IT.....? SHARON quickly ask as Taiwo began to murmured......

For a moment... Taiwo just stood staring at their face.. They were eager to hear .... Anxious to know what it is....

"It's death isn't it....? Mary quickly ask

Taiwo nodded with a deep breathe....

Mary snort and quickly Breakdown on the chair... Her downcast eyes fixated in the air... Her mind wandering away......

"Oh my God.... !Sharon exhale...double whammy wrecking through her..... "Could Manny be dead.....?...Terror..fright.. Trepidation sink into her the moment the words fell from her mouth.... She shift her doleful eyes to Mary then to Taiwo waiting.. Hoping someone tells her it isn't true.. That Manny is still alive....

Taiwo insutilate.... "Well i don't know what to say... But whoever did this, i believe he/she is just trying to get you scared.... "

"Scared.... "Sharon boom out.... "Those letters just spelled out death...

"Exactly Sharon.. He said death not dead.... Besides why would someone go through this trouble when he could send Manny out dead or alive if not to scare you... Whoever did this... The person is closer than you think..... "

With trembling hands, Sharon placed her hand on her waist..... "Francis did this..... He has Manny"

"Would you stop.... "Taiwo interjects... "We left Francis there, there is no way he could have gotten ahead of us and why would he do this.... What will scaring you benefit him.... If you ask me, i will say the message simply connote stop finding... "

"And how do you know that? Sharon ask shapily..

"Logic.... Whoever did this knows you've been searching for her, the only way to scare you off is to send this...... "

"It doesn't make any sense.... "Sharon scowled..... "How are we supposed to understand what it means.. If he has Manny he should just let her go"

"I suggest you tell the police..... ".....he huffs when non of them answered her.... "This is becoming more scary.. Your lives are at risk here....

"And you think telling the police is a good idea....? "Sharon interjected....... she quickly cross her hands on her chest.... "Didn't you just say whoever have Manny want us to stop searching for her.... "

Taiwo suck his teeth... Then he shift his gaze to Mary..... then to Sharon"So are you just going to stop searching because i think the message could mean stop finding ?

Sharon puff...."Do you want us to keep searching until our heads are the next message.....

"That is why you need to tell the police.... Fill the police in and let them take over the case.. You don't have to do anything....

"That doesn't change the fact a psychopath has Manny..... "Sharon blasted out..... "He sent us warnings.... We will only be fools not to yield to it..... "

"So you are just going to give up on her....? Taiwo snapped..... "What if she is in real danger...

"Manny is in real danger.... "Mary cut in.... She suck in air and stood up from the chair.... "Put the pieces together,first someone called us to that place... Then this.... "She added trepidation in her voice....

"Even the more reason the police should know.... "Taiwo intoned.....

Mary huffs, cross her hands against her chest... Her fingers propelling each other... "Take me to the police station..... "

Sharon bug her eyes at her.... "Are you really considering.. Does that threat mean nothing.......

"Just shut up... "Mary cut in.. Consternation in her voice.... Her eyes sparkling with anger..... "I've been sitting down listening to your nonsense, if you don't want to help.. Just stay away....

Sharon scoffs... "You think this is about that, not helping....

"Yes i think this is about that.... "Mary cut in harshly..... "Ever since Manny went missing.. You've been very unconcerned... Adamant about helping... It's no surprise now you are making it so obvious.....

"You know i want to help as much as you do.... "Sharon blasted back... Infuriated....

"Really... Do you, because few minutes ago you were jabbering things about your head been cut off for Manny's sake....

"All right ladies.... "Taiwo said coming between them... "There is plenty of time to do this which i think isn't appropriate for you to do considering the circumstances..... So we are just going to go to the police station and lay down this complain... No more fighting...

"Just take me out of here please..... "Mary said irritated.. Without a second glance at them she went to the door....

"So are you coming.....? Taiwo ask handling Manny's phone to her...

She exhales.... "Sounds like i have a choice.... Am stuck in Manny's shit..... "

Taiwo giggled as she walk pass him.. Then he quickly followed....



*************************
Both girls didn't say a word to each other until they got to the station..... With folded hands, Mary came down first..

Sharon did with frown lines encroach on her forehead....
Sharon look around, she hate stations... As she scan her eyes around.. Memories of the past began to pave their way into her head.....
She sniff, wave off the thought and followed them in....

With Sharon lagging behind, they went straight to the counter... Two policemen on uniform were there....

Mary sigh when she realise it wasnt that policeman they had met the last time she came with Jacob that was there...

They greeted the police men who reciprocated..

"Am...... "She blink... Drag in a little breathe.... "We are looking for the DPO"

"Any appointments.... ?One of the policeman ask....

Mary grunt.. Her eyes roaming on the black policeman that just ask the question....

"Yes, we came for something important.... "Taiwo interjects....

Sharon stood in their back, not bothering to make a move to say anything.... The stench of the place sent nausea into her..... Infuriated with the whole idea... She just fold her hands and watch them

"If it's something we can handle, i presume you tell us.... "

Taiwo glance at Mary waiting for her go-ahead....

"Is not something you can handle.... "Mary blasted out impetuously..... Consternation in her voice... She was fed up with the whole police bullshit... She isn't going to allow a repeat of what happened the last time....

"Madam, i suggest you tell us, the DPO don't like to be seen for little issues.... "The other policeman said..

"I have been here before..... "Mary intoned.. This time more quiet in her voice..... "If it's something you can handle, i will gladly tell you... "

"Then am sorry we can't help you..... "The police man replied shapily....

Mary curl her lips.. She was at the verge of slamming the counter with her hand when Taiwo spoke up.....

"Our friend is missing..... "

"How long has she been missing...? The police man ask

Taiwo glance at Mary for the answer.....

"A week now...... "Mary replied with knitted brows...

"Only one week..? The police man ask.....

Mary funk her lips..... A foreboding anger grip her.... Without hesitation... She pushed Sharon aside and begin to match to the DPO's office herself.....

"Madam na where you dey go? The policeman blared out in pidgin....

Not minding him, Mary continue trotting forward....

"Akele.... Arrest that woman"The other policeman shouted from the counter....

"For what exactly.....? Taiwo quickly ask...

"For obstruction of the rules and regulations that govern this place.... "

"Madam you go sleep for cell o"The policeman said blocking her way....

Their noise chased out other policemen from the block...

"Akele na wetin dey happen for here? A policewoman ask.....

"Na dis girl o, she wan force her way go DPO office......

"Oya arrest her na"....

Mary sigh.. A sigh of relief when she caught sight of the DPO....

"What's going on here.....? The DPO mr Alfred raved...

"''na dis girl o, she say she wan....

"That's ok.... "Mr Alfred said cutting him short.....
With a long face tinge with a fake smile... The DPO invited them in regretting why he came out the moment he recognized her...



****************************
For a moment, the DPO just sat on his chair staring at them... His eyes rolling from her to Sharon then to Taiwo who was standing since there were only two guest seats in the office. And the DPO didn't care...

"So you saying, someone called you saying she knows where she is but you didn't see her there.... Then when you got home her phone somehow appeared under the chair and it has a message of numbers which you converted into alphabets and it gave you death.....

Mary took a deep breathe.. She had a feeling the DPO thinks their explanation was stupid..... "Yes sir.... "She said after a slight pause....

The DPO danged the biro in his hand..... "It's okay, we will look into it.... "He said dropping the pen....

"That was what you said the last time i was here and you did nothing..... "Mary said harshly....

The DPO lour his lips... A bit abashed.... "Look here young lady, I've been very busy... I worked day and night so citizens like you can have a normal life without fear...

"Well if that were true, i wouldn't be here, would i....? Mary boom out...

"Mary.... "

"Just away from this Sharon...... "She yanked her hand at her,then she fix her gaze on the DPO..... "It's obvious that someone has my friend.. She is in great danger... So you are going to do more than just looking into it... "

Irritated... The DPO rest his back on the chair.... "Like i said young lady... I will look into it...

Mary suck her teeth..... Then she scoffs... "It's obvious you aren't interested... You think nothing has happened to her.. That one day she will suddenly appear......if you aren't going to help me... I will find my friend myself....i don't need your goddamn help..... "She retorted...

She Quickly stood up from the chair and push it aside.... The chair fell down....

Mary.... "Taiwo called out...

She didn't reply, she just rushed out of the office not bothering to close the door.... With a huff, Sharon followed her....

"Am really sorry sir.... "Taiwo apologize...

"She is a girl.... They get like that sometimes.... But she should learn some manners.... Her ill-attitude will get her in trouble oneday.....

Taiwo thanked him and left....



**************************
"What was that for.....? Sharon ask the moment she entered the car....

Mary sniff.... "The DPO wasn't going to help us.... "

"You didn't know that... He said he will look into it...

"Look into it..... He didn't even show any interest..."

"But the manner you spoke to him was rude... He is the DPO....

"I don't care.... "She yelled... Exasperation licking through her..... "He can be anybody i don't care.....

"You think finding Manny on our own is going to be easy... With a death threat... Come on Mary.. You have to be smarter than this....

She sniff as tears began to drip from her eyes...... "I don't care if that bastard whoever he is sent us a death threat.... Whoever he is... He better hide.. Am going to find Manny and am going to bring her home...... "She said with all sense of confidence...

The car door open and Taiwo swunged in.....
"What have you done Mary....? He snarled the moment he sat on the drivers seat...

"This was your idea.... "Sharon growl at him...

"My idea... I didn't tell her to be so rude to the DPO..... "

"Well that's what you get when you make the wrong decisions... And you better talk some sense into her because this whole Manny's bullshit is about going to hell......"



STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE

KINGS
EPISODE 128


HANDS GRIPLY ON THE GLASS.. HE WATCH... each step he took from the staircase chased memories into his head, reminding him of who he is.... He groan silently... His eyes widen ...a sense of awe overwhelming him... His head enshrining into the past.... It couldn't be.. It can't be him....

He squawked fixating his eyes on him... It was the same face... A change in his hair, a tattoo in his upper arm.. A large drawing of a lion with a crown in it's head.... But he can never forget that face... Those eyes.. Those cursed mouth that has called him and the rest of the chiefs greedy old men... The boy he thought they had killed alongside his useless father and brother....

He was certain ... Heart ripping out of his chest... Exasperation chased it's way into his spine... He groan, frown lines began to encroach on his forehead.....

Astonish, chief Buzo stood motionless... Stiff, watching him as he finally get down from the stairs... He dig into memories then he glance at the rest of the chiefs who were astounded as he was... Double whammy jolting through them....

"You must be the chiefs.... "Pious said with a sly smile....

Chief Joseph stare at chief Azuka who was sitting beside him and he returned the look... Mouth slack-jawed, they watch him sat down majestically with legs cross..... They couldn't be seeing a ghost....

Pious wink his eyes at them.... "Why are you all looking at me like that.. Haven't seen a young billionaire....?

They look at each other, the ones standing quickly sat down....

Carlos pout, his eyes narrowly fixed on him.... He quickly sat down himself when he caught his stare.....

Pious flex his fingers"Not the welcome i was expecting.... I have heard alot about you chiefs, it will only seem fair if you act just the way my men has described you..... "

Carlos squeak and gave him a dirty look, he was inclined to confront him.....

"Well Ferico you wouldn't blame us if we stare at you like that, you remind us so much of someone.... Someone who was dear to us.... "Buzo spoke up....

Pious suck his teeth..... "Does it ever end... People always see me like their relatives... Back then in sudan, a family of peasants thought i was their brother..can you imagine that.....?

Carlos scoffs, then he quickly empty the wine in his glass.....

"I can't even begin to imagine it.. Your resemblance to this person is very exquisite.... "Chief Marcus cut in.... "Forgive us if we think you are him.... "

"Pious scoffs..... "How much do i look like this guy....?

"More like an identical twin"Chief Azuka boomed out.... '"Not to mention the voice and tonation.... "

Pious gritted..... "Gentlemen,i believe we haven't been properly introduced....... "

A guy standing guard close-by quickly step forward..... "His name is Ferico Abrad Carter... A known and popular bourgeois.... A proletariat helper....

"That will be enough JJ"Pious cut in....

Carlos knit his brows then he danged his glass in the air..... "Why exactly are you here.........? He snort..... "Carter....., at least i can call you that can't i....?

"We are civilized men.... You look older than me... I wouldn't want your wrinkled age to participate in the laws that forbade the young from disobeying the higher ones... So yes..... Chief, you can call me that.... ".......he gritted when he saw the ferocity in his eyes.... "And in response to your question.... My associates have briefed me about the glory of this land... In a more sense.... I did a little digging in this community... I found out it might be of great importance to me if i start a business here since the community is so rich..."

"Do you know you went against the laws and customs of this kingdom when you started building this house....?Chief Joseph said....

Pious slack-jawed his eyes at him..... "Well Chief, i didn't know i needed permission to do that.... I must apologize.. I totally went off the loop... "

Carlos quickly drop the glass.......

"Do you also know you stood us up at the party your contractor invited us....? Buzo added..... "Not to mention the lunch get-together that you totally snub... Without any excuse.. No apology.... "

A brooding expression etched on his face.... "Well am also sorry for that..... If i knew my flight wasnt going to be possible on that day of the party.. I would have issue orders for it to be called off.... And regarding the lunch party.. Gentle chiefs, you know i just got into town... The comfort of my new home and surrounding was still warm in my skin..... It was really difficult doing anything at that moment.... As wise business you should be getting my point"

Carlos scoffs... Exasperation licking through him.... "Well Carter... You have made your point... On farther thoughts, i thought it would have been convenient if you had sent a note.. Perhaps one of your men to the tell us you weren't going to make it... I guess that never crossed your mind.... "

Pious snort.... Trying to hide the anger that was screaming to burst out... "Once again.. Am sorry..... "He insutilate..... "So gentlechiefs, instead of dwelling in the past.. Yabbing about our mistakes.. Why don't we take this moment in talking business.... Business drove me here, i wouldn't want to jeopardize it with common chitchats......."

"Business you said.... What business are we referring to here.....? Chief Mayo ask

Pious drop his cross legs and readjusted his position... "Speaking of that, my man will come to each of your houses and give you a sketch... A quick study included on the plans i have for this town...... But as it seems.. I will totally need your cooperation on that... "

They stare at each other.. Some murmuring words within themselves....

"How well do you know us Carter.....? Odumodu ask.... "Correct me if am wrong but i supposed you are still new in town, i wonder how a fresh man will know us so well.. Even to knowing our houses.... "

Pious smile.... "Chiefs... There is a common saying in my family... If you want to get into something... Do it with all might... Did you actually think i wouldn't know information about the town am going to reside in... Especially of men like you who i supposed has been the rulers of this land..... Also something my associates filled me into.....

"In that case Carter... I think we should be taking our leave... Thank you for the spectacular welcome you threw on our faces.... "Carlos said...

Pious smile at him.... "The pleasure is all mine chief.... I guess we will be in touch.... "He said standing up to meet him.... With a big smile he held out his hand for a handshake...

Carlos smile back....."Welcome to town"He said embracing the handshake.....

For a moment they just stood... Smiles tinge with anger curving their cheek...

Then they let go of each other....

Pious shook the rest of them and watch as they all made their way out.......



***************************
"That is Pious"Chief Ayu boom out the moment they got to their cars....

"It can't be... It can't be Pious.... "Buzo replied with skepticism....

"I doubt it... Carlos killed that bastard.... "Chief Marcus said...

Carlos took a deep breathe acclimating all that just happened.. Could it be him...... ?

"The resemblance can't be a coincidence... He is Pious"Chief Azuka jump in....

"I guess you should ask your boys if they truly killed that bastard.... "Chief Mayo retorted from behind them.. Anger sparkling in his tone...

"Why are you even talking to us... I thought you two formed two a men squard.... "Ayu replied....

"If he is back.. He is back for all of us.... "Mayo snapped..

"Are you saying he came back from the dead... ?Buzo queried.....

"Do whatever you must... Let's be sure that isn't him.... "Mayo said back and walk to his car...

"If it's possible he came back from the dead, then we just have to send him back to death"Chief Joseph retorted..



**************************
Mind unsettled... Annabel keep pacing about in the sitting room... How could this be.. How could she have found out.... With a huff, she throw herself on a chair....
Feeling unease... She stood up again... Spun around looking for all possible explanation of what happened earlier....

She quivered when a knock came on the door.... She wonder if it could be her... With a low pace, she stare out from the window....

Chin jutting, she quickly opened the door....

"What's this.....? Jacob blared out the moment he was in....

She gasp... Threw him a glance.... "What's this..... "She spun around... Then she turn to face him again..... "How the hell did your wife find out that am the girl you have been cheating on her with...?

"I don't know okay, she took my phone.. She must have texted you or something.....

"Of course she did.. You texted me to meet you at that restaurant.....

"I didn't do that... She did... "He snarl...

"How the hell did she find out that was my number if you hadn't show her? She growl

"I didn't show her.... She knew the Charles was a girl...."

Her eyes sparkling with anger, she turn away from him and sat on the chair.... Her heart pumping... Pulse etching.... "Why would you even save my name as Charles.......?

He insutilate.... "Look your questions don't matter now.... Where is she... Where is Rose..?

"Really..... "She quickly stood up, exasperation in her voice... Her thoat crackling up.... "You really going to ask me where your wife is.....

"I should.... You met with her..... "

"I don't know.... "She snapped quickly....

"Fine.. Am just going to find her myself.... "

"What about us... Are you just going to walk out that door as if there was never us.... As if something didn't happen....? She said more quietly....

He grunts... "Look Annabel.. We see sort this out later.. I need to find Rose before she does something stupid.....

"Am pregnant Jacob.... "She blasted out..

His eyes narrowed....prostration swept through him..... "You are pregnant....?

"Yes am pregnant.. And be damn sure the baby is yours...... "

He took a deep breathe... The news echoing in his head..... "For how long.. I mean when...How?

"What sort of stupid question is that....."She retorted..... "What happens when you keep fu*king someone..... Pregnancy Jacob... Pregnancy happens..... "

She quivered when she heard a loud slammed of the gate...she quickly look out the window... She shivered as she saw her matching towards the house...... "Your wife is here... "She said with trembling hands.....

"You slut.... LovePeddler.... Where are you.... "Rose raved from outside.... Then she begin to bang on the door....

Annabel decked back... Away from the door....

"Let me handle this.... "Jacob said as Rose pushed the door open.....

The rage in Rose Eyes sent shivers down her spines....

"Of course.... I know you will here with this bitch"Rose yelled

"Rose listen... I....

Without hesitation... Rose slapped him..... Then she shift her gaze to Annabel....

"Slut... Husband stealer... Tramp.... "She was about to pounce on her when Jacob hold her by the waist dragging her to the door.....

"You bastard.... Leave me alone.... "She raved... Her heels bent and she lost her balance but Jacob grip was tight on her allowing her not to fall.......

"Get your hands off me you shameless man.... "She shouted and began to struggle with him...

Infuriated.... Jacob quickly released her with a force..... She hit her head hard against the wall and dropped to the ground....

Annabel tremble in fear as her blood stained the white paint in the wall.... She quickly rushed to her....

"Rose.... "Jacob called out .....disquiet in his voice....
He took up her hand and it drop....

Trembling... Annabel lean her ears to her chest...... "She gave a faint shout and covered her mouth...... "She isn't breathing Jacob... "She said with shaking mouth..

"Rose... Rose... "Jacob called out again...

Annabel stood motionless.... Hands trembling..... "Sh... eee... is dead... ...oh God... We killed her.... She is dead.... "



STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE

DEAD TRAP
EPISODE 6


QETSIYAH FELT HERSELF slipping down Brad back and once again tried to maneuver herself higher, squeezing her thigh tighter around his body as he trotted through the long grass.. But he was big between her legs and the strain of holding on was making her musles burn..
The back of his shirt was damp from exertion and his neck smelled very faintly of aftershave.. It made her wonder about him.. Who he really was...

Thunder grumbled again and the wind felt hotter, she peered into the darkness trying to get her bearings, but there was nothing to orient her, just shadowed shapes of trees, scrub, rocky outcrops..

He stop suddenly breathing hard...

"What is it? She whisper near his ear

"Elephants... "he said as he set her gently down to the ground.... "Over there"he pointed

Qetsiyah heard the crack of a branch and a crunch, then a monstrous, ghostly shape seemed to materialized out of the darkness itself. More followed big hulking forms moving slowly across the land, ears silently flapping, curved tusks gleaming ghostly white.. A sense of awe washed over her skin and she rubbed her arms.. Moving closer to Brad...

Neither of them spoke, they just watched in humble silence as the ghostly gray goliaths moved quietly in a single file...

"Whatever happens, dont run... "He whisper to her.. Breathe warm against her skin.... "Out here only food runs, there is nothing here that you can outrun... "

She swallowed hard.. Heart banging against her ribs...

He gave her hand a squeeze,reading her fear, just letting her know he was there..

She moved closer to him, his air of confidence made her feel safe..
Heartpounding.... They watch until the animals passed.. The darkness of the night swallowing them up...
"Wow"She exhale....

"See how all the mapani trees here are short and squat"Brad whispered.... "They are eaten like that by the elephants... "

Qetsiyah immediately realised she was still holding his hand tight.. She awkwardly extracted herself but stayed closed.. Her body almost touching his.. She was suddenly acutely aware that any number of creatures were probably watching them from the darkness right now.. Assessing threat, waiting for opportunity ..mistake..

"You ready to move again? He ask.. His voice a little kinder.. Gentler.... "Come hop on"

"I'm walking Brad"

"You'll hurt your feet, then we are done for"

"Forget it.... You can't carry me all the way.. "She was about to move... When Brad quickly grasped her by the hips and swooped her round into his back.. As he did, his fingers caught on the thread of her G-string...

She felt him stall, it made her suddenly conscious of the intimacy of her position on his back....

He started to move again.. This time faster.. His small flashlight bobbing in a little yellow circle on the ground...

After several miles he was breathing hard. His body wet with exertion...

"Brad put me down. "

He ignored her and kept going...

"Am going to hurt you if you don't put me down, you cant keep going like this... "

He gave a snort...

"I mean it"

He trotted forward not minding her words

She grip his hair.. Then she pulled it hard...."Put me down"

He dumped her to the ground hard and sudden.... "Damn it woman, I should leave you out here for the bloody jackals"

"Give me that machete... "She demanded

"What for?

She took off her shoe.... "Please just give me that blade... "She said holding her hand out..

He met her gaze, the paleness of her eyes unnerving in the touch light.... Slowly he gave her the blade...

Irritation spiked in her when she noticed his gaze... He was probably humoring her, waiting to see what she was going to do with the blade.... She'd show him...
She crouched, balancing her stiletto heels against a rock.. She quickly raised the blade into the air, as she brought it down, he caught her wrist midmotion...

"Don't be a fool"he growled.... "You are going to slice off your goddamn fingers like that... "He pushed her aside and lopped off the heel in a clean swipe....
"The other one"he said holding out his hand...

She gave him the other shoe...... She watch as he quickly cut off the heel

Qetsiyah put the decapitated sandals back onto her feet, gritting her jaw in determination.. She stood, the shoes were uncomfortable.. But she could walk with it... It was better than having lopsided stiletto heels pinning her into the ground with each step....

Brad resheathed the blade.. "Fine walk then, but there are three rules.. One, we walk single file, you stay right behind me... Two, i give an order, you jump..... Three, you keep pace or you are back on my shoulder... Got it?

Before she could answer, he strode off, his flashlight shinning on the ground... "And it's a panga, not a machete ..."he called over his shoulder

She hobbled after him, immediately strugglingto match his pace.... "You are going faster to spite me, aren't you? She said after a few minutes already breathless

"Believe me if i want to spite you, I'd do a lot more than walk fast... "he grumbled

"Look i didn't ask to be rescued "she retorted... "especially by some pigheaded brute with a massive chip on his shoulder "

"I didn't ask to rescue you either.. Sweetheart "

"What's your problem... You don't like women?, where did you earn that chip on your shoulder anyway?

He didn't bother to reply...

"What did Ayura did for you that you owe him?

He exhales... "If it wasn't for your brother... I'd be dead"

Surprise chased through her.. "What do you mean?

"Save your breathe woman, you'll move faster"

"Qetsiyah! My name is Qetsiyah... "Tears of frustration pricked at her eyes and she try to run faster behind him... Fear crackling at the corners of her mind

He picked up more speed as the clouds seemed to lower even farther....

She felt a bullet of rain hit her shoulder.. Big marbles of water suddenly began to bomb into the dry dusty earth...

"Run.. "he called out.. Breaking into a trot himself... "This is going to be a mother of a storm.. We need to get gear and make for that river"

Gathering up what was left of her dress, feet sending spark of pain up her legs, she ran as fast as she could...

Raindrops were attacking them now, crashing into the earth, slamming into her head ..onto her shoulders.. Wetting her hair.. Wind gusted, thick with smoke from a bush fire.. Her hair was completely plastered to her face

Brad reached a slope of smooth stone and began to descend rapidly ahead of her...

The rock was slick with water.. With no grip on her soles.. She went down hard, smacking onto rocks as her shoes slid out from under her.. Her arm caught in a small crevice and torqued against her weight as she slid... She cried out in pain...

Brad spun around instantly.... Qetsiyah couldn't hold back the tears of pain that pooled in her eyes and ran with rainwater down her face...

Frustration licked through Brad as he aimed his flashlight to her face.... quickly he panned the light over the rest of her body.... "You should have let me carry you"he said crouching beside her..

"You were getting tired... "she snapped...

"That's not for you to decide, let me see your arm... "

She kept her arm held against her stomach.... "it's fine"
Rain pelleted down and thunder crashed right above them...

"Persia, give me your arm"

She glanced sharply up at him at the wrong pronunciation of her name...

"let me see"he said softly taking her arm in his hands...
Her skin was skick with water as his hand roam carefully around her bone.. She suck in air when he neared her wrist...

"It hurts there?

She nodded biting her lip

Brad concentrated on the area.. Detecting a slight grinding feeling under her skin.. Crepitation... He notice she had a fraction.... "Can you wiggle your fingers.. Move your hand?

She wiggled but not without obvious pain..

"Am pretty sure you have fractured it"

"I'm sorry"she whispered

His tone grew gentle... "hey it's okay, we will get you somewhere we can splint and bandage you up properly.. There should be some first aid kit stuff at the camp.. If we are lucky.. Pain killers could be there.... See that cluster of baobabs down there, below the cliff.. ?

She nodded..

"I'm going to leave you down there with my rifle while i run the rest of the way to the camp... Those trees there are over a thousand years old.. They will protect you from the worst of the storm.. You will be safe there okay... "

"Brad... "

"What is it?

"I've been difficult, am sorry.. Thank you for coming... For saving me... "she sounded suddenly beaten...

He nodded with grunt...

He began to.move to the rock slope, carefully this time.. He holding her by the hand and steadily her around her waist...

"Do you think there will be people at the camp?she ask

"It's a satellite bush camp.... I know the outfit that runs it.. I've flown for them before ...they might be having a party... If there is no party, there must be someone guarding the place...

"They could help us"

"No they can't.. We don't know who's heard of the bounty on your head. And this is a hungry country.. Life is cheap.. Am not trusting anyone.. We've got to look after ourselves "

"How much is the bounty on me?

"One million dollars for your head, five million if you are brought to Amal alive.... "

A spark of shock ran through her... "My head.....

"Yes... "

She swallowed, staring at him
"How can he promise so much?

"Ayura expects that Amal will try to extract a large ransom from your family.. He will be intending to use this to pay the bounty if need be"

"They won't do it, my brothers will not pay that bastard.. They will not negotiate with the devil... "a sudden defiant anger crackled through her

"I know your brother Persia, Ayura will do anything to save you..... "he gave a dry laugh"including trusting me"

"You say that like it was a mistake.... "

"His options were limited... Come we need to get you onto that fork between the trees.. Off the ground out of the worst of the rain"

He lifted her by the hips and set her into the crook where two baobabs meet.. He chambered a round into the rifle and held the gun out to her"You know how to use one of these?

"Probably better than you do"

"How so?

"There is a lot you don't know about me... Brad"

He laugh... "Any other surprises up your sleeve?

She gave a weak smile...

He gave her the touchlight... "Use the touch only when necessary... We might need to conserve the battery.. "

She nodded..

"Sit tight, i won't be long"as he withdrew his hand, the back of his fingers brushed against her ring... He look down at the rock...
"Engagement....? "he said... Couldn't help himself..

Her mouth flattered and she nodded...

A look in her face made him hesitate.... "You'll be fine..... "he said.. More for his own benefit than hers..

He quickly turned and disappeared into the storm...

Qetsiyah watch the darkness swallow him... Thunder exploded right above her head and she wince...she stood stiff, fear began to sink into her chest... The night seem to grow more darker..she thought of Amal wanting her head and her pulse quickened...
What would she do if Brad doesn't come back... She wave the thought away... She had no where to go.. With a bounty on her head..anyone would turn on her....

Just then she heard a noise, somewhere above in the trees... Her nerves twitched and she peered up into the darkness.. She couldn't see anything but she could feel it.. A presence.. Something close watching her...

She quickly flicked on the flashlight.. Shone it into the branches above... A pair of green eyes glowed back.. The forward facing eyes if a predator..

Heart jackhammering,she point the touchlight further to the left ...
Ice slid through her as she registered what was staring at her from the tree.....


STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE

POHB
EPISODE 21


SLOWLY HE LET GO OF HER WRIST... her words echoed in his head again... "What nonsense are you talking about.... ?

She pulled her hand from his... Gave him a stony look.... "You do know what am talking about... You killed your ex girlfriend didn't you.... "She bit her lips when he gave no reply... Instead he let out air.... "The rumours are true... You are a murderer....

"Stop.. Just stop for a second... I never killed my ex-girlfriend.... On the contrary she broke my heart and she ran off with another man who she had a car accident with.... "he raved... Exasperation in his voice...

The ferocity in his eyes made her shivered..... "Fine.. Whatever... "She retorted and grab her phone from his grasp..... "She shot one last glance at him and left him there...

Taiwo groan as he watch her leave...



******************************
Francis snort at his own mistake.. He wonder why he always fire up like that anytime that fair pigheaded bastard shows up.. He always ruin things just the way he was ruining their chances of getting back together......

"Just leave Francis... You have done enough harm.. Just go... "Mary snarled....

He suck in.. Dragging in all the air he can get.. His inner mind screaming at him for saying the wrong things.... "Am sorry.. "he said softly..... "Am truly sorry".....
He frown again when Jacob interrupted..anger swimming in his spines. He clenched his fist but didn't say a word..

"Am going Mary.... "Jacob said....

Mary nodded.....

Both men glared at each other before Jacob turn to leave....

"Why don't we drop you off.... I mean wherever you are off to"Mary cut in from his back...

Jacob shrug.... "No you don't need to do that... Where i am going is actually close..... "

"Am really sorry.... "Mary said crisply...

Jacob suck his teeth.... "You don't have to.. He is your man i get it.... "he smile at her.. With that he left.....

Mary knit her brows wondering if Taiwo got in a fight with Mary... She watch as Taiwo entered the drivers seat and slammed the car door callously sending cold chills down her spines.....

"Am truly sorry.... "Jacob said when he noticed she wasn't occupied anymore...

With hands folded across chest.. She glared at him....

"I know i messed up when i came here alone.. I acted irrationally.. I should have called you first..... And am sorry for that. And am truly sorry for everything....... "His words came to an end... With a gentle face.. He waited for her reply.. Hoping and praying.. Her reply comes out sweet......

"Good for you... "She boomed out and started making advances to the back seat of the car....

"Mary... "He called over her shoulder.....

"Just leave me alone Francis.... ".....she quickly entered the car.....

Taiwo didn't hesitate before starting the car engine.. He drove off leaving Francis there to his thoughts.....



*****************************
Her palm on her head and her elbow on the windscreen... She begin to recall everything that just happened.. It was very obvious now that Manny is in great danger wherever she is....

"You know if you ask me.. I suggest you tell the police about this..... "

Taiwo's voice interrupted her thoughts.... She took a deep drag and change position..... Her gaze shifted to Sharon who was staring out from the windscreen.... She sigh as she thought Sharon was back to old Sharon.. The unconcerned Sharon.....

"If someone had called me to that place and i didn't find what i was looking for.. I will definitely tell the police.... "Pope said over his shoulder with his hands clench on the wheels...

Mary exhales... The shimmering waves of the breeze from outside flap the hair of her skin....

"I have an idea..... Arrest Francis.... "Sharon interjects...

Mary quickly shift her gaze to her.. A bit astonish at the ridiculous idea......

"What....? Sharon queried.... "A girl called you and gave you Manny's location, only to get there and you saw your boyfriend in that same spot.. What does that tell you?

Mary huffs.... "Francis doesn't know where Manny is.. The message on his phone proves that...

"And you believe that....? He has all reason in this world to kill Manny....

"You are talking as if Manny is dead.... "Mary snarled irritated....

Sharon snort.. She tossed back a strap of her hair backward.... "Well we don't know that... Manny could be dead.. She could be alive... The only lead we had of her led us to your boyfriend...

"Ex boyfriend.... "

"Well whatever he is.. He definitely knows something about Manny's disappearance.... "

Mary grunts thinking of the possibility of it.. Could Francis......

"Have you girls thought of the possibility that whoever that must have called you there and texted that guy... "He puff thinking of the name. "Francis wanted you to meet Francis there so you will think he knew something about Manny's disappearance..... ?Taiwo said....

Mary slack-jawed her eyes thinking of the possibility of it.. Why hasn't she thought of it..... "That could be possible.... Someone wanted to set Francis up....

"Why are you guys turning this around.... "Sharon snapped...."We have our suspect and it's Francis. The fact that he was there makes him a potential suspect and if we are going to the police is to take them to arrest Manny's abductor who is no other person than Francis...."

"Stop this Sharon..... "Mary snarled...... "You can't keep making this about Francis.. He could be innocent....

"Is that what you think.. That am making this about Francis... "She scoffs.. "You said it yourself that we need to find Manny by all means possible.. And now that we have a suspect.. Someone who could know where Manny is.. You are just going to ignore it because he is your boyfriend.... "

Mary gave her a stony look.... "This isn't about that and you know it...

"Oh please..... "She yank her right hand at her.....

"Am still of the opinion that we go to the police.... "Taiwo said....

"We have done that before.. They didn't do anything.. Why do you think they will do something now..

"Well probably because it's different now.. Now you are sure someone has taken Manny.....

"Or someone just wanted to pull my legs so i can meet Francis there..... "She pout her lips as the words drip from her mouth....

"That could also be possible considering the fact that you are still settling your issues.....

"Could Francis has set all this up....? She ask... Shock etched on her face..

"Why do you think so.. He could... "Taiwo reply....

Mary knit her brows as her head began to bubble up questions....

"Maybe he thought you will be going alone. And you wouldn't go there if he'd said something otherwise.... I guess he use Manny as an excuse for you to get there... "

Exasperation flush through Mary as she dwell on the thought...

"So where am i going... Police station.... Or...

"Take us home... "Mary said abruptly..... She rest her hand on the windscreen thinking if Francis was capable of that....



*****************************
It was minutes later when they got to the gate.... Mary thanked him and quickly came down from the car... Not hesitating before she opened the gate.... She was inclined to wait for Sharon then she noticed Taiwo was staring at her.. She quickly figured out he needed to be alone with Sharon... Without a second glance she went in....

Sharon frown as Taiwo hold her hand..... She look away not making contact with him...

"Am sorry ...."Taiwo muttered over her shoulder.....

She took a deep breathe.. She told herself there was no need pretending.. She needed to play along.... She quickly turn to face him... "Am sorry too... For my outburst earlier... "

Taiwo chulkled.... "It's fine by me... Many people also think i killed her.... It has been my cross... "

She force a smile on her face..... Taiwo was kind. Sweet.. The kind of gentleman that she wants... But she only let Taiwo into her life when Pope broke her heart.. Then she needed someone to fill that space Pope destroyed.... She try to love Taiwo but she couldn't and she still can't.. She has find way to break up with him but she can't and she doesn't know why.. She wasn't even sure anymore who she is... Her feelings keep screaming to her that Pope is the one but her head choose Taiwo.... Over the days she has feeling guilty... A filthy guilty conscience has been pricking her day and night.. She knew what she was doing wasn't right but she can't find a way to correct it.. She doesn't want to be with Pope.. Pope was bad for her but her feelings keep pushing her to him..... "So.. Do you want to come in... ?

She quickly turn around when she heard Mary scream her name....

Without hesitation they both rushed in....

"What is it... ?Sharon quickly ask when they saw Mary shivering.....

"Manny's...... "She said with trembling mouth.... She try to breathe... Acclimating what just happened..

"Manny's what? Sharon queried....consternation sweeping through her....

Mary insutilate then she quickly dialled Manny's number again.....

Heartpounding.... Their heart raced speedily as they heard the phone ringing nearby......

"Manny's phone.... "Mary muttered with shaking mouth....

Taiwo began to search... Following the direction of the ringtone.....he quickly raise the chair and there it was.....

"Is this Manny's phone...? He ask holding the phone in his hand....

Mary nodded abruptly.... Then she slowly collected the phone from him....

"Oh my God... How did that phone get here?Sharon ask.. Prostration gripping her....

"The phone wasn't here before....? Taiwo ask curiously...

Sharon shook her head..... "The phone has been missing since Manny went missing.. How did it get here..... "

"Well if that's the case, someone must have broken in.... "

Sharon spun around...scanning her eyes everywhere....

"The lock is good... There was no broken window neither force entrance..... "Mary interjects..... "Whoever brought this phone here use the key..... "

"Oh my God... Manny's key... "Sharon resounded crisply....

She noticed the change on Mary's expression.....

"What...? She ask shapily...

"No missed calls... Just one damn message that isn't from me... "Mary said as a layer of tear drop from her eye...

Sharon quickly collected the phone from her....

Mary spun around.. She sniff.... "Someone must have deleted my missed calls and all the messages i have been sending..... "

Astounded Taiwo look at both girls.... "I don't understand... Why would the person bring the phone now.. I mean after all this time....?

"Manny is in grave danger.... Someone must-have taken her...."Mary snarled and uncontrollable tears roll down her cheek....

"And who are you calling...? Taiwo ask as Sharon held her phone to her ears...

"The person who sent her this message.. "She groan and drop the phone....with a fizzled face, she said..... "Switch off"

"Let me see, what message did the person send.... ?

"Just numbers.. I don't even know what it means... "Sharon boom out..

Taiwo collected the phone.. He stare at the numbers...."Why would someone send this numbers.. What does it mean....?

"What are the numbers.... "Mary ask anxiously

"Eight, Five, One, Twenty, Four....."He gritted... "Does it make any sense....?

"They are all bunch of useless numbers..... Why would someone text her that.... "Sharon said

"Convert the numbers to alphabets.... "Mary said shapily.....

Taiwo wink... "That could make sense... "He stare at the numbers again... In this case,Eight would be H, Five would be E, One would would be A, Twenty would be T and Four would be D... Thats HEATD...."

"Still doesn't make any sense.. Moreover there is no word like that.... "Sharon resounded....

Mary bit her lips as she thought of the word.. What could it mean.. Why is it the only message on the phone..... "Could the person be trying to pass a message through those numbers.. Word...letters?

Taiwo lour his head then he raise his gaze to face her.... "Could be.. Considering the fact that it's the only message on the phone.. It could be a message from whoever have her....."

"Even if its a message.. It's a wrong word.. There is no word like HEATD...can you pronounce that.....? Sharon blasted out abruptly....

With folded hands Mary sat on the chair thinking of it then it hit her head..she quickly stood up.... "Oh my God... Form another word with those alphabets....

Sharon squeak and put her hand on her waist.....

Taiwo look at the letters again.... "It could be make sense....... "He eyes widen as he figured out the word..... He quickly shift his gaze to them.... "Jesus....Its.........



TO BE CONTINUED....

guys form a word with the letters, let me see the smart ones that can get the answer......

KINGS
EPISODE 127


HEART PUMMELING... CLOBBING.. POUNDING.... He lay his head on the stone.. Katherine's voice, Levi's voice, the crowd screaming and cheering... Drums beating... All echoed in his ears chasing out more tears......

His spines pulsated as the executioner lay his finger on his neck.... His whole body shook... Consternation.. Perturbation, foreboding all swept through him.... His legs tremble... His hands shaking from his side... More tears soak his face... His father dying moment rumbled in his head.. The flashing moment... The wounds in his stomach, the blood on the floor... The blood on his mouth.. His own screams when his brother drag him away..... His brother telling him to run.. To survive..... All came running back to his head....
He blink and more tears drip down.. ...

The executioner raise the sword ready to cut.. The sharp edge ready to take off his head...... But then he stopped, look around....

The crowd stood up marveled at the sky... Slowly the cloud began to blacken, the moon began to pass through the sunlight swallowing the sun.....

"The blood moon"King Jafar muttered from his sitting place... He quickly stood up as the light cloud began to disappear... Everywhere become hazy..... Shady....
"Stop..... "He shouted from the top to the executioner.... "It's the auspicious time"

The executioner drop the sword.. He stare at Francis who was still kneeling with his head on the block......

"Francis get up.. "Levi shouted as the crowd began to dispatch....

Levi's voice interrupted his thoughts....slowly he raise his head when he notice the screams and cheering of the crowd were depleting....
Prostration engulf him when he notice everyone was taking off... He look to his side.. The executioner wasn't there anymore... He quickly stood to his feet.... King Jafar eyes startled him when he met his eyes.... He watch as he walk away dragging Katherine along..
He try to process what was happening... Then he look at the cloud... "Eclipse... "he muttered..
He wonder why they were running from the eclipse.....
He beem a smile on his face when he saw Levi...

His heart race at tremendous speed when a guard grip him, dragging him.. He almost lost his balance but the guard didn't care.. He just continue dragging him....



***************************
The guards hauled the three of them inside the prison... Francis almost hit his head on the wall....
For a moment both boys just stood staring at the girl....

The girl snort.... "Am not a ghost... "

They quickly look away when they realise how stupid it was....

"So the blood moon saved us for now.. "The girl said finding a comfortable place to sit on...

Both boys sat beside each other and lean their back on the wall....

"You mean the eclipse....? Francis ask with clenched teeth

"Eclip.... "The girl chulkled.... "What world are you from... "That was the blood moon not an elip or whatever you called it.... The blood moon appear once in many years, it's considered an auspicious time.... "

Francis nib his lips... Whatever the eclipse is called here, he was glad it did happen at the right time.. He is still alive.. Still have time...

Levi stare at the girl, her hair was rough.. She was light.. Above skinny.. She was a bit pretty but the scars in her face hid her beauty away.....,she had no flowing golden curls or ivory skin; no piercing eyes of green. She was average in height but in her ordinariness she was stunning. Something radiated from within that rendered her irresistible to his eyes.

He quickly look away.. Jut his chin when he realise he was gazing too much... He snort.. Stare at Francis whose eyes was..... 'he doesn't even know... With a grin he stared at her again.... "So.. What did you do...?.... He gritted when she threw him a gaze.... "I mean what did you do that landed you here...?

The girl scoffs. "Are you seriously asking me that... I did the exact same thing the two of you did.. I stole.. And now we are paying with our heads... So i think the question should be, what did i steal...?

Levi shrugged.... "Okay fine, what did you steal....?

She gave him a wry smile.... "You tell me first, what did you steal?

Levi pout.. His lips propelling against each other.... "Actually....

"So what does this eclipse.. Blood moon mean? Francis ask interrupting them...

Levi threw him a stony look

the girl huffs... "I just told you, it's the auspicious time.. Should i start explaining what auspicious means?

Levi giggled at her statement.... "The people consider the auspicious time as a time of blessing,they believe when you pray to the gods during this time... Quick answers come.. And they don't ruin it with blood.... "

"That explains why they didn't behead me.... But why did they name it the blood moon if they don't shed blood... ?

"Where are you from again? The girl interjects....

"It's simple Francis, it's called the blood moon to remind people that blood shouldn't be shed on that time... You still want me to explain further?

Francis gritted then he shove his face away resting and leaning his back on the wall... The thought of the princess creep into his head..he wonder where they have taken her to... What plans does Jafar have for her....

"So since we are going to die anyway.. After the auspicious hours.. Why don't we know ourselves better...i mean now that we are still alive"Levi said with a wry smile....... "Am levi and you are....? He widen his eyes at her...

"Pandora"

"Oh....... "He snort...... "Pandora is a good name"



****************************
In a formation, their cars drove behind each other, their drivers carrying each of them.. Their tires spreading dusts around... Passerbys stood and watch.. They marveled at the sight of the expensive cars... Jeeps.. Some murmured words to theirselves at each car that passes. Some questioning each other where they were off to...

It was minutes later the first car at the front got the gate of the mansion... They hummed and horn.... alerting the security man who was neatly dressed in his security uniform...

The security man hesitated a bit.. Then a guard nicely dressed in black suit with dark glasses prompted him to open the gate...

Without further ado, he opened the gate and the drivers drove in... Each cars with tinted windscreen.. It was hard to see the people inside.. But one could guess... The chiefs have arrived....

The security man watch as the six cars drove in....
Another security directed them on where to park...
They did as the guy has directed....

The security man stood and continue staring gormlessly at the cars... Just as he was about to press the remote to close the gate.. Two more cars started driving in.....

Each of the chiefs began to come out as their drivers park the car....
They begin to lavish accolades on each other. Shaking hands with their mantle....




**************************
From inside, Zuru, Kahefa, Giselle.... Pious all gathered in a control room... Watching the camera on the screen....

"The bastards are here...."Pious said... Exasperation in his voice

"So soon.. So early... "Zuru said surprise...

Pious gave him a wry smile... "Just what i expected.... "

Kahefa exhales... "Go on then, go welcome your visitors... You know we can't go there, we can't let them see us... If they do they will know it's you... "

"Wouldn't make any difference if you ask me.... "Gissele interjects.. "He is still the same person.. Same face..same everything.... "

Kahefa smile at her... "We are at war sweetheart.... If the chiefs sees us, they will quickly figure out it's us.. And he is still alive.... "

"I can't imagine how shocked they will be... When they see the look alike of the man they killed... "

Pious quickly pick up the walkie-talkie..... "Ghaffar.... "He said into it...

"Boss"Ghaffer voice came up

"Stall those bastards.... "Pious said... Vexation running through him....

"Yes boss... "

Pious dropped it back..

"Stall..... "Zuru queried.... "What for... "

"It's my own way of saying welcome.... "



*****************************
For a moment the six chiefs and the two glared at each other.....
"Who would have thought that this backstabbers will be here today.. Same time with us.... "Carlos broke the silence

"I presume they have come to beg Ferico Carter to be on their side..... "Chief Joseph added

The rest of them giggled.....

"And exactly what are you doing here chiefs....? Chief Mayo queried....

"They have probably come to do the same thing.. Beg"Odumodu said.. Resentment in his voice..

"We don't have time for this..... "Carlos said with knit brows...

They were about to walk away when they saw a man dressed on black suit with security guards....

"What is this....? Chief Buzo ask when the drew near to them....

"Are you here to escort us....? Chief Azuka ask

Ghaffar suck his teeth.... "On the contrary sir, we have orders to search anyone that comes into this house.. "

"What nonsense is that, do you know who we are? Chief Marcus raved....

"Am sorry sir, we are just following instructions..... "

"Your instructions doesn't extend to us.... "Chief Azuka retorted..... "Go in and tell Ferico that the chiefs of this town have come to see him... "

"We can't do that sir... We have to carry out orders first"Ghaffar said...

The chiefs began to insult them, each throwing insult after the other...

"Is okay..... "Carlos said delving everyone into silence...... "Go ahead, search us.... "He said with a killer look

"Carlos, are you really considering this.... ?Buzo snapped....

"It's okay.. Let them do their job... "

Without hesitation... The security men began to check.... Checking every part of them including deeping hands in their pockets....

"What is this.....? A security man ask when he brought out an ancient coral bead from Marcus pocket......

"Put that back... "Marcus raved at him.... "That's my okpa lara.... "

The chiefs furrow their brows, anger sweeping through them as the security guards search them.......
They gave the security guards a dirty look when they were through.....

"Can we go in now....? Chief Mayo ask...

"We still need to seek permission from the boss. So no, you can't go in now... "Ghaffar said...

Infuriated, chief Joseph clenched his fist.... "That bastard. "he groan... Almost at the verge of leaving......

Ghaffar took a few steps from them..... Then he came back..... "Follow me... "he said to them...
With a stony face. They walk slowly behind him..... They look around... Armed thugs at each block of the house



****************************
It was few minutes later when they entered the house.... They scan their eyes around as they look at the inside..... The sitting room was a paradise....

Some of them slack-jawed their mouth at the exquisite beauty of it....

They sat down... Sitting opposite each other.....
Smile beem in their faces as drinks were served to them.....

They cheered as the expensive wines were popped.....
In anticipation of who Ferico Carter is... They waited anxiously.. Each drinking his glass of wine..
They laugh at every remark made.....

Heartpounding...awe.. hysteria, prostration.. Stupefaction etched greatly on their faces as they saw who was coming from upstairs....

They watch... Eyes bugging out... Hands clenching.... A glass of wine fell and clatters from one of them.. Slipping from his hand....

They blink their eyes..... Great shock displaying on their faces.... They found it hard to believe... They stood motionless.. Staring at him gormlessly....

His feet climbing down from the staircase echoed in their ears.. Reminding them of who he is....

Fingers propelling each other.... Hands griply firm on his glass.... Carlos watch....exasperation swimming in him.... His grip tightened on the glass almost pressing it to broken pieces... The wine on the glass spill... Slowly pouring on the floor.... He couldn't be seeing ghost.. He try to shake it off but he was still there gently climbing down from the stairs...... With shaking mouth.. He muttered...... "PIOUS"



OH NO..... WHAT HAPPENS NOW



TO BE CONTINUED

egwolopretty:
silver biko, fine boy, please don't kill Francis o

[quote author=egwolopretty post=72188943][/quote]

blanquito:
nice piece boss,God bless you with more knowledge

Thank you

kelvincoke:
much love bro, u deserve accolades. are u married? if no, I got one pretty lady for you. u can detail me your spec to know your taste.

,i neva marry o... Am very single

POHB
EPISODE 20

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MANNY.... "Sharon yelled at him grabbing his shirt....

"Let go of me... I haven't done anything to her... "Francis said irritated.... He stare at Mary who was looking away... He hold her hands, again she yanked her hand free from him....

Mary fused her gaze on him....

"Have you killed Manny? Sharon boomed out....

Francis knit his brows.... "Why would i kill Manny,
what nonsense are you even talking about....

"Because you have every reason to kill Manny, you know very well she is the one who set you up with that slut... "Sharon snarled....

Francis bug his eyes, totally astonish by the news.... "So that bitch set me up.... "He retorted.. He pout his lips when he caught Mary's gaze...... "You hear that Mary, your so called friend set me up...

"What have you done to Manny....? Mary said crisply

Francis insutilate... Greatly shocked by her reply...

"You killed Manny... "Sharon growled hitting him.. Dragging him...

Taiwo quickly hold Sharon...

Francis grunts.. His expression sour.. He fixated his gaze on Mary... "Someone sent me a text that Manny was here"He said after much silence

"Liar.... "Sharon hollered.... "You've killed Manny, that is why you are here.. "She added harshly pulling his shirt...

Taiwo quickly grab her by the waist and carried away from him....

"So.... "Jacob interjects....

Francis gave him a dirty look then he shift his gaze back to Mary.... "You don't believe me... "He retorted.... Then he brought his phone from his pocket and showed them the message....... "This is the damn message i was sent... "

Mary grunts as she read the message.. She quickly look at her phone.. She look at the girl's number who had called her.... "It's the same number.... "She said with a deep huff...

Sharon free herself from Taiwo grasp..... "Why would the girl text you, how are you connected to Manny's disappearance....?

Francis lour his lips.... "I hate Manny... "He said with resentment in his voice..... "how the hell would i know why the girl texted me or how she even got my number..... "

"If you hate Manny that much, then why did you come here...? Mary ask with furrowed brows

He shift his gaze to Mary... "I was doing it for you..i know how much Manny means to you and i know how much her disappearance has affected you....

"So you decided to play the hero... You did this why.. So i could take you back....

"I didn't do for that, i did it because i care.... "He said back... His lips propelled against each other...

"He is lying.. I don't believe him... "Sharon resounded

"Damn it Sharon.... "Francis raved... Anger twile in his voice.... "I wouldn't kill Manny.. You think am capable of killing someone....

"If you capable of cheating on your girlfriend.. You are capable of anything... "Sharon said back...
Exasperation sounding through her voice....

Fury spark in Francis eyes.... He glowered at her.. His fist clenching... Brows farrowing..... "If your stupid friend hasn't paid that tramp to drug me, i would still be with her.. All thanks to Manny..... Manny did you hear that.. Thank you... "He said loudly.. Raucous in his voice..

"That's enough... Both of you... "Mary cut in irritated

"So after you saw the text, why didn't you call Mary...? Jacob ask.. Folding his hands across his chest

"I don't answer to you boor... "Francis retorted....

Jacob gritted... "So you saying is okay if we think you know where Manny is... "

"Your opinion of me doesn't matter to me. All that matter is what Mary thinks, so keep your opinions and thoughts to yourself... All of you... "He said rolling his eyes...

"Hey man, we are just trying to know the truth.... "Taiwo cut in...

"I just said the truth... Someone texted me and i came here.. What other truth do you want to hear.. That i killed Manny...?

Taiwo swallowed hard... "But you acted irrationally... It wasn't in your place to come here.. You should have........
His words slope to a pause as Mary began to walk away.... Sharon immediately followed... Leaving the three guys there.....
"You should have called them... "He finally spout it out...

Not minding his words, Francis quickly ran after Mary...

Taiwo sigh.... "Is he always this annoying....? He ask Jacob....
Jacob shrug with pout lips... "The guy is totally insane"



*************************
"Mary mary... "Francis called out from behind her... Walking towards her...
Mary stopped, then she around to face him.... "What do you want Francis... "She queried, her glistening with vexation....

Francis breathe out.... "I just wanted to know you believe me...

"Do you care about what i think that much.. ..?

"What you think is all that matters to me... "

She bit her lips.. Her hands cross against her chest... She stare at him... "Well this is what i think.... I think you should leave me alone.. Never show your face to me.... Ever... "She eyed him and turn to walk away.. Then he grasped her hand but she yanked free.... He grasped again this time holding her tight....

"Don't you understand what this is doing to me..... "

"I don't care.... "She blared out turning to face him... Exasperation in her voice..... "How do i know you didn't set this whole up.. ..."

"Set what up.... "Then it hit him... "Are you crazy, why would you think i do that, i will never do that Mary, am not a killer... You've known me for years, do you think am capable of doing that...?


**************************
Irritated,Sharon hum from the car.... She suck her teeth when no one bothered to move.. She look at them, Mary talking to Francis... Taiwo and Jacob taking shade under a tree.... Infuriated...she check her pocket for her phone.... Her eyes bugged when she didn't find it.... She scan her eyes around in the car but it wasn't there.... "What happened to my phone... "She muttered to herself....
She remembered vividly well she has pick the phone from home.. It was in her pocket.. She shudder.. Fear gripping her as she thought she could have lost it inside the building... She quickly came out from the car....
She hesitated a bit then she walk up to Mary who was battling words With francis...
Sharon's presence interrupted them..
"Did you see my phone... ?Sharon ask glaring her eyes at Francis.....

"No i didn't.... "Mary replied tossing back a strap of her hair...

With clenched hands, Sharon quickly left them....

"This isn't on me, your best friend tried to separate us.... "Francis boom out the moment Sharon was gone...

"Of course you are going to blame Manny for your doings.... "

"Why do you keep taking her side.... Didn't you hear what Sharon said... She set me up....

"I know what Manny did... Am not taking her side.... But you.... "She scoffs.... "If you hadn't had a drink with that slut.. You wouldn't have been drugged... "

"I thought i was having fun... I never thought about having sex with her.. The.....

"Come on say it.... The drug did it.. Manny made you f**k that slut.... "


***************************
Sharon gritted as she walk closer to them.. Her eyes fixated on Jacob.. He was more handsome than the last time she has saw him... Her eyes drool on the black leather jacket he was wearing... Then the designed black jean.... His features more exquisite and manly than before.... She watch him as his throat cloak... His deep sexy eyes.....

"I think i should start going.... "Jacob muttered as Sharon drew nearer to them...
Taiwo nodded and they shook hands....
Sharon gaze followed him as he walk towards Mary....

"Like him.... ?

Taiwo's voice interrupted her thoughts... With knitted brows,she turn to face him.... "Have you seen my....

"Phone... "He cut in... He brought it out from his pocket and wave it in her face....

"How did you get that....? She ask curiously, hands tuck in her back pocket....

He curl his lips.... "I took it from your pocket when you were fighting that annoying bastard.....

She frown...vexation vibrating in her spines.. "Why would you do that.... ?

"Because i wanted to know what you've been doing.... "

She furrowed her brows... "What are you saying.. Are you insinuating something....?

"I wouldn't have insinuated anything at all if i haven't seen Pope's number as the number you called last.... Are you still seeing him?

Sharon suck her teeth... The gaze in his eyes startled her.... "Pope and i are just friends.... "

"Friends... "He resounded...

"Yes friends.. What else would we be....? She ask, her mouth wailing...

"That leech was your ex.... Same else who gave you bruises more than i can remember....

"What is this all about.... "She cut in irritated.... "Where exactly are you getting to...?

"I told you to stay away from that boy.. The fact that you are still seeing means something... He is still f**king you, isn't he"

She swallowed hard.. Roll her eyes.. Scoffs... "I don't have time for this..."She said trying to collect the phone from him..

He grab her hand immediately.. Tightening his grip on her wrist....
Sharon sneer as she heard Mary's voice...


***************************
"If you have something to say, you say it to my face"Jacob snarled at Francis....

"You want to hear me say it..... "Francis growl.... "Well here it is.... I think you know where Manny is....you are just pretending..... You just happen to sprang up from somewhere and started helping... Am not naive to fall for your sycophances...i can see right through your feigned civility... "

"You don't know anything about me bastard.. "Jacob raved back...

"Guys stop.... "Mary shouted and step in their middle

"I do know you are nothing but a fake bastard who is after my girlfriend...... "Francis snarled over Mary's shoulder....

"Is this what this is all about.... Your girlfriend.. Well guess what buddy, am going to get your girlfriend.... Am going to be her guy....

"Jacob stop... "Mary yelled pushing him aside....

"What kind of girl do you think my girlfriend is.. You prat.... "Francis raved at him...

Infuriated.... Mary slapped him.. A hot taunting slap..... "Just get out Francis.. Get out. "


************************
"Let go of me.. "Sharon groan... As she try to free herself from his grip......

"You better tell me the truth.... "Why are you still seeing that rogue... That clotpole...."He hollered still holding her...

"You are hurting me Taiwo.... "She said crisply....

His breathe vaporize. Exasperation overwhelming him.. Consuming him..... "You know i don't like it when am been cheated on.. You did it before with him.. I won't have you do it again.. I won't have you break my heart again.. Do you hear that... "He raved at her...

His eyes made her shudder.. Sending cold chills down her spine.. "Am not doing anything with Pope... "She said putting back her confidence......standing her ground... "Now let go of me. "

He inhale, sucking in all the air he can get.... "You know what happens when my heart is been broken.... "

She quivered.. His words hitting a nail in her head.... "Oh God.. It's true then, you killed your first girlfriend because she broke your heart.... "


TO BE CONTINUED

KINGS
EPISODE 126

TWO HOURS EARLIER BEFORE

[/quote]*******************************
Both boys sat down on the floor as daylight shone into their faces......
With a deep breathe they glance at each other as a guard opened the gate.... They chained their hands and push them out of the prison......

"A good day to die.... "Levi muttered with a wry smile....

Slowly they drag their feets as they followed the guards.... They could hear cheering probaly from a crowd.....
They both turn away their faces due to the sun that sparked in their eyes when the door was opened.....
Francis look around as the guards push them outside... He shudder when he saw the crowd... He look up. There he saw king Jafar.. Two guards holding Katherine but she struggled with them.....
Fear grip him as he saw two more people with their hands chained.. A girl and a boy.. The boy look a bit older but the girl was probably his age.....
They pushed them forward... Putting the girl behind them...........

Hands clenching... Body trembling Levi stare at the executioner..... The sharp sword glinting as the sun shone on it......

"Begin......."King Jafar said from up.....

The crowds cheer, some screaming at the top of their voices.... Drums were beat from the corners of the arena....

With fear.... Both boys watch as the first boy was drag forward by the guard....

"No.. I don't want to die.... "The boy cried out struggling with the guard...

Infuriated... The guard hit him with the wood with him...
The boy fell down spreading dust around.....

They look at the wailing aggressive crowd shouting at the top of their voice.... "Kill him kill him"

The guard quickly pulled the boy up and pushed him forward....

The boy swung... Shifting aback at the sight of the sharp sword....but the guard pushed him forward....
Then he press his head down to the stone.
The boy struggled...

Just then the rest of the guards walk up to him and began to beat him.. Sending punches to his face each direction he turns to.....
The boy splatter blood out from his mouth at each punch he received....
They left him when they realised he was weak.. Then the first guard pulled him back on the stone..

The boy was unable to move.. He just lean his neck on the block weak and vulnerable......

The masked executioner rub his finger on the sharp edge of the sword... Without hesitation.. He cut off the boys head.....

Great fear griped the rest of them as the boy's head fell down from the block.... His headless body whizzle gushing out blood....

The executioner push the body and it fell to the floor....
The crowd cheered.....

The executioner pick up the head and threw it to the crowd who dive at it with open hands......

Heartpounding.... Katherine struggle with the guards as Francis was seize by the guard....
"Please spare him, he is here because of me... "She said in tears...

King Jafar gave her a dirty look..... "Your head will be next if your father don't do as i say before the end of tomorrow.... "

Katherine groan then she screamed Francis name....
with tears, Francis look at her as the guard was about to drag him to the block....

"Behead me first.... "Levi blared out impetuously.....

The guard smile.... "Your wish... "He said and push Francis aside and took hold of Levi whose heart was racing speedily.....

"What are you doing....? Francis boomed out

"Buying you time.. "Levi said with a wry smile..

"Time for what?

Levi didn't reply, he just keep smiling as the guard drag him forward....

"Your friend is brave... Not all friends will lay down their live for another.... "The girl at the back said over Francis shoulder....

Francis inhale deeply... "Am not letting him die for me.. "He said and began to match forward....... "It's my turn.. Kill me first.. "he boomed out

The guard stop and stare at him.....

"Don't mind him.. Just kill me first... "Levi said with trembling mouth...

"Kill me first... It's me you want.... "Francis snapped...

"Kill me first.... "

Infuriated, the guard slap Levi......

"Levi....."Francis muttered rushing to his side....

From up king Jafar groan as Katherine scream Francis name again.... "Kill the liar.... "

The guard quickly hold Francis and drag him to the stone....

Francis insutilate as Katherine scream echoed in his ears.......
For a second he just stood staring at the blood.. Then the guard made him fell on his knees and lower his head to the block....
Tears fell down from his cheek into the block.... His name and Katherine screams echoed persistently in his ears... He thought about his father.. His brother.. Mother and friends......

"Any last words boy.....? The executioner ask.....

He blink, raise his head.... He glare at the crowd cheering and shouting... Kill him kill him...... "He curl his lips, more tears dripping.... Katherine voice... Levi's voice ringing in his ears... With a deep huffs.. He muttered.... "Cannibals"[quote]

********************************
EYES STILL HEAVY FROM THE SLEEP, Annabel spun around and her body stumbled on her phone, she pick it.. She blink her eyes as she saw new message.... She was inclined to tossed the phone aside and still sleep but curiously couldn't let her, she quickly pick up the phone and click on the message... Eyes bugging out.. She re-read it..... "Why does Jacob want to meet me so early.... "She muttered to herself.... She look at the message again..... "At the farmhouse restaurant..... "she added.. She squeeze her brows wondering why Jacob will want to meet her there when he knows that Restaurant doesn't open until 10....eyes still dizzy she tossed away the phone... Then an idea cross her mind, she pick up the phone again to call Jacob... But then she remember he said.. "Don't call me, just come there, is something important... "in the message...
She huffs and drop back the phone....



*******************************
WITH ONLY HIS SHORTS ON,Jacob walk out of the bedroom.. He nibbed his lips when he saw Rose dressing up in front of the mirror...
He ignored her and climb back on the bed and began to search for his phone... He sigh when the thought of where he had kept the phone before he slept off the previous him eluded him.... He pulled out the bedsheet but the phone wasn't there......
"Hey baby have you seen my phone....?

Rose didn't reply, she just keep humming and lip singing a song....

"Rose.... "Jacob snarled irritated....

"No, i haven't seen it... "Rose replied not bothering to look at his face.... She quickly pick up the soft moist foam of the makeup and began to smoothen the powder in her face....

Jacob grunts, he scan his eyes around but there was no sight of it..... "Can you please call my number.... "

Rose continue humming... She drop the foam... Pick up the comb and began to comb her hair.... Scraps of her hairs fell down as the comb pass through it....

Jacob knit his brows... "Are you even listening to me.. Besides where are you dressing to so early in the morning... "

Rose quickly turn her gaze to him.... "Jacob.. The last time i check you don't let me check your phone probably because you are scared one of your numerous whores will call... And secondly where am dressing to..... "She turn around, preen herself in the mirror.... Then she spun around to face him again.... "is totally non of your beeswax.... Thirdly, the time is pass eight.... "She turn back to the mirror, pick up the foam and begin to smoothen her makeup again....

Jacob squeak his face..... "Can you at least call my damn number... "

She snort, his voice echoing in her ears...

Infuriated, Jacob quickly grab her phone from the mirror locker.....
He frown when he noticed it was password..... "Really... Password..?, since when did you start putting passwords on your phone.....?

She sigh... "Since the husbands has decided to password their phones... The wives also decided to do the same... It's a common interest if you ask me.. "

Jacob exhales..... "Okay fine, what's the password?

She griited.... "The reason people password their phone is probably for privacy... And it's no longer private if i start blabbing it to people.....

"Am not people, am your damn husband.... "He raved... "And what privacy are you talking about....?

She spun around to meet his gaze.... "Oh please, you know this privacy goes both ways... and even if i want to call your number as you keep asking... I don't have airtime.. "

"Then go get airtime or better recharge from your account.... "

She widen her eyes... Then she quickly close her makeup kit.. Gently with a smile she collected her phone from his hand..... "As much as i will love to do that, i have an urgent meeting with dignitaries... Women of valor in the society.... "She glance at her time... "And the meeting starts in ten minutes... I hate to go late... Maybe when i return, we will talk about the phone.... "

"What nonsense are you talking about... You are just a low class bitch my father chose for me as a wife, you and i know you know no classy woman in this country.... "

She pout... She pick up her sandals with heels... She smile at him and fit her feet in it... "My darling husband... You don't know me as well as you think you do... You'd be surprise at the things i do when am been pushed to the wall.... "She quickly pick up her bag.. Walk up to him.... "See you soon husband.."She said kissing him on the cheek... With a bold smile on her face she pick up her car keys and left the room....
"Am going to meet that bitch today"She muttered to herself



*****************************
Chief Marcus smile as his wife Agatha adjusted the hand of his dress...
"You look exquisitely handsome my darling.... "Agatha lavish accolades on him.... "Do you mind telling me the occasion.....

Chief Marcus smile..... "You remenber the man i told you own that mansion...?

"Yes.. Ferico Carter... You also told me he stood you up and the rest of the chiefs at the lunch prepared in his honor.... That bastard certainly has no respect.... "

"Well, Carlos insisted we give him a surprise visit this morning... "

"After what he did.. After the embarrassment he put you and the rest of the chiefs through.... Please my darling don't bubble that schmuck's ego by going there... You will lose your respect and value.... I for one don't like him, whoever he is... "

"Well Carlos insisted we go.... "

Agatha huffs... "The rest of you shouldn't have concurred to that... This is a bad idea....

"On the contrary my love, i think is a great one... We will finally be meeting that bastard... We will be seeing his face today.... "

Agatha lour her lips... "Okay my husband.. But make sure you let him know the chiefs of this land are not to be mess with... Put that leech in his place"
Chief Marcus smile at her,then he press a kiss on her lips....



****************************
With anticipation, Rose waited for the bitch to show up. She hid herself beside the edge of the wall of the restaurant.. Praying and hoping that whoever the bitch is, she should show up....
She quickly deep her hands in her bag and brought out Jacob's phone... She was inclined to call her.. Text her....
She put the phone back when she saw a taxi driving towards the restaurant....
She watch as the taxi stopped.... A girl with glasses on came out from the taxi.... She took a closer look.... Her heart skipped as she recognized the face....
"Annabel.... "She Jolted silently.... Eyes sparkling.. She stare at her.... She watch as she brought out her phone.. It wasn't long before Jacob's phone started ringing in her bag... She quickly pick up the phone.... Heart pounding... She stood motionless staring at the caller's name.... "Charles..... "
She threw her a dirty look.. Infuriated.. She answered the call....

"Where are you? Annabel said...

Rage racing through her.... Eyes sparkling with anger.... She muttered... "You bitch... "

Annabel shudder and quickly end the call.. Then she look around.. Her heart raced at tremendous speed when she saw Rose coming out from the corner of the wall.. She was inclined ro run.. But her feets were shaking.. Her hands trembling.....

With her silhouette heels, Rose walk up to her..... "Who would have thought my own best friend is the bitch screwing my husband..... "She said.. Raucous in her voice.....

Mouth trembling... Annabel shift aback... "I can explain Rose, is not what you think.... "

"Not what i think.... "She scoffs.... "What do you want to explain... How you have been fu*king my husband or how you have been pretending and lying to me.... "

"Is not that Rose.. I didn't mean to.....

"Just shut that shith*le you call a mouth.... "Rose raved, anger in her voice... "How could you.. How could you do this to me,how could stoop so low to do this to me, i thought i was your friend...

"And you still are...

"Just shut up.... "Rose cut in harshly...... She pout her lips then she remenbered.... "That morning when i came to your house.... Jacob was at your house.. That was his car, wasn't it....?

"I can explain Rose...

"Of course it was,i was so stupid not to notice. You were acting weird that morning.. I guess you acted that way so i can get angry and leave so you can continue fu*king my husband.... "

"I didn't start this, it was....

"You LovePeddler.. Slut...strumpet, troller, slag.. Low class slapper....."She step wrong, her ankles swing and her heels bend making her fall.....

Annabel quickly began to walk away... Walking as fast as she can away from her.....

Infuriated...Rose quickly pull off the heels.... She try to stand... She wince at the pains of her ankle..... "Wrench... Husband cocotte.....you bitch... "She shouted after her....
With furrowed brows she stare at Jacob's phone as it begin to ring.... She quickly answer the call.....
"Who is this... "She said...exasperation in her voice....

For a moment there was silent on the phone.... Then a voice came up.... "Rose, you have my phone... "Jacob said from the other end...

"Oh baby you called... "She said standing up from the floor.. Barefooted...

"Why do you have my phone....? Jacob said with irritation in his voice...

She scoffs..."Guess what i just find out.... I just saw your pretty harlot... Charles.. Does the name ring a bell.....

"What are you doing Rose?

"Let me explain.... Our dearest male friend Charles turn out to be my best friend.. Who is infact a female.... "Fury suck in... "The bitch you have been screwing...... "

"Where are you....?

"Where i am... "she scoffs, look around.... Then she chulkled...... "Aren't you a bit curious about our discussion...with your bitch....

"Come home, i will explain.... "

She spun around..... She bit her lips sucking in all the air she get... Then tears began to sink in.. She try to bounce them away.. She sniff as the tears rolled down.....
Extremely infuriated, she threw the phone on the floor..........

"Hello.. hello.. Rose... "Jacob voice sounded...

"You bastard... "She growl, she pick up her shoe and broke the screen with the heels.... She continue hitting it until it totally scattered... Every piece of it splattering out..... Just then she gave way to uncontrollable tears.....


PRESENT TIME.

To be continued...


Kelvincoke
Mavikolo2020
Skubido
Shedrack36
Evold

DEAD TRAP
EPISODE 5

WITH ANGER ETCHED ON HER FACE, SHE FOLLOWED HIM....."I don't believe this"She yelled behind him..

"Welcome to Africa sweetheart... "He said over his shoulder..

"Speak for yourself... "She snapped.... "I was born on this continent... It's mine as much as it's anyone else's, i don't need your welcome, and you calk me sweetheart again, i will.....

He spun around... "You will what?

She glowered at him...

Thunder crashed again, he saw her flinch... He noticed she was scared, feisty. Though if he could keep her angry, she might remain focus.... "We have a long way to go Persia, save your breath... "

"I told you my name isn't persia,its Qetsiyah.... "She snarled.... "And what do you mean we have a long way to go, are we walking to Botswana?

"Unless you have a better idea"he replied, raising the beam of his light, watching her face.. Her flashing eyes, trying not to think how stunning it was.... "We need to cross the Tsholo into Bots before the rains flood the riverbed, if the waters come down suddenly, we could be trapped on the Zim side for a full day or two... We'll be safer in Botswana.. Even so, it'll only be a brief respite, because i don't doubt, Amal will cross and come after us there... "

"How far is the Tsholo?

"Too far in those shoes. We need to make a detour to the north first where we can liberate some supplies from a bush camp"...

She bit her lips... "You are from South Africa?

"Originally "

She shot a glance at him, then she look up the lowering black sky... "Which way is north?

He jerked his chin into the distance... "That way, the detour will cost us time but it might buy us mileage for the long walk if we can find you some boots, water, food...

"How long?

"Several days if we are lucky"

She mushed a fall of dark hair off her face"And you have no compass, no GPS, there are no stars visible"

"I have my wits sweetheart"

She muttered something in Arabic...

Brad held her hand.... "Sorry, habit"

"Yeah am sure you have a whole truckload of habits... All good ones too.. "She brushed past him and hobbled off on her lopsided heels in the direction he indicated leaving him behind this time...

"And don't yelled that am going slow... "She said over her shoulders... "You have better shoes"

Smile tempted his lips and he trotted up behind her, grasping her arm, he turned her back to face him"Thats why you are going to ride on my back"

"You are not going to carry me"

"Why not?

"You can't "

"Piggyback.. Just the detour, come, hitch up that frock and hop on up... "He held his hand out to her

She stare at his hand, then lifted her eyes... "You're some piece of work, you know that?

"That's exactly why your brother sent me"

She pulled what was left of her dress to her hips and Brad swung her around onto his back.. Her thighs were firm and smooth, her body lean yet full in the right place..

He swallowed hard as she settled against him, hooking her arm around his neck and gripping his hips between her thighs...

Her massive diamond engagement ring butted against his chin, rubbing her nonavailability right into his face...

Even as he could smell the shampoo in her hair, her expensive perfume, feel her breast pressing against his back....

As he began to jog, he forced himself not to fucus on the friction of her pelvis against his hips but all he could think about suddenly was the scraps of silky G-strings he'd seen and touched in her drawer.. He imagined what she might be wearing now.. A scrap of that same sensuous fabric was probably all that seperated him from the most intimate parts of her body...

He inhale, readjusting the rifle across his chest, his tiny flashlight panning the ground.. He figured Amal and his thugs were probably ransacking the lodge in search of her right now.... As far as he can tell, only a man had seen him trying to rescue the princess and he'd killed that man and come day break, they'd see his boot tracks.. They'd come at a clip...

He began to move at a faster trot, wanting to reach the escarpment and descend into thicker riverine foliage as soon as possible.. They will be less visible there... Some people has already spotted and strip his plane which meant that there was a chance he and Qetsiyah might be seen too..

Qetsiyah readjusted her position on his back, finding a better grip with her thighs....

Desire swelled hot and sudden in his groin as her body rub against his.. He cursed softly to himself..... Physically this woman makes his blood boil, in every way. She was his type as Carla had been and look what happened to Carla...
Then it hit him hard in the head,no matter the dangers the next hours, days or weeks....his biggest personal challenge was going to be proximity to the princess herself....
He had a feeling she was going to be a little too hot for him to handle... And he had zero intention of getting burned again....


To be continued.......

KINGS
EPISODE 125

.



*******************************
Both boys sat down on the floor as daylight shone into their faces......
With a deep breathe they glance at each other as a guard opened the gate.... They chained their hands and push them out of the prison......

"A good day to die.... "Levi muttered with a wry smile....

Slowly they drag their feets as they followed the guards.... They could hear cheering probaly from a crowd.....
They both turn away their faces due to the sun that sparked in their eyes when the door was opened.....
Francis look around as the guards push them outside... He shudder when he saw the crowd... He look up. There he saw king Jafar.. Two guards holding Katherine but she struggled with them.....
Fear grip him as he saw two more people with their hands chained.. A girl and a boy.. The boy look a bit older but the girl was probably his age.....
They pushed them forward... Putting the girl behind them...........

Hands clenching... Body trembling Levi stare at the executioner..... The sharp sword glinting as the sun shone on it......

"Begin......."King Jafar said from up.....

The crowds cheer, some screaming at the top of their voices.... Drums were beat from the corners of the arena....

With fear.... Both boys watch as the first boy was drag forward by the guard....

"No.. I don't want to die.... "The boy cried out struggling with the guard...

Infuriated... The guard hit him with the wood with him...
The boy fell down spreading dust around.....

They look at the wailing aggressive crowd shouting at the top of their voice.... "Kill him kill him"

The guard quickly pulled the boy up and pushed him forward....

The boy swung... Shifting aback at the sight of the sharp sword....but the guard pushed him forward....
Then he press his head down to the stone.
The boy struggled...

Just then the rest of the guards walk up to him and began to beat him.. Sending punches to his face each direction he turns to.....
The boy splatter blood out from his mouth at each punch he received....
They left him when they realised he was weak.. Then the first guard pulled him back on the stone..

The boy was unable to move.. He just lean his neck on the block weak and vulnerable......

The masked executioner rub his finger on the sharp edge of the sword... Without hesitation.. He cut off the boys head.....

Great fear griped the rest of them as the boy's head fell down from the block.... His headless body whizzle gushing out blood....

The executioner push the body and it fell to the floor....
The crowd cheered.....

The executioner pick up the head and threw it to the crowd who dive at it with open hands......

Heartpounding.... Katherine struggle with the guards as Francis was seize by the guard....
"Please spare him, he is here because of me... "She said in tears...

King Jafar gave her a dirty look..... "Your head will be next if your father don't do as i say before the end of tomorrow.... "

Katherine groan then she screamed Francis name....
with tears, Francis look at her as the guard was about to drag him to the block....

"Behead me first.... "Levi blared out impetuously.....

The guard smile.... "Your wish... "He said and push Francis aside and took hold of Levi whose heart was racing speedily.....

"What are you doing....? Francis boomed out

"Buying you time.. "Levi said with a wry smile..

"Time for what?

Levi didn't reply, he just keep smiling as the guard drag him forward....

"Your friend is brave... Not all friends will lay down their live for another.... "The girl at the back said over Francis shoulder....

Francis inhale deeply... "Am not letting him die for me.. "He said and began to match forward....... "It's my turn.. Kill me first.. "he boomed out

The guard stop and stare at him.....

"Don't mind him.. Just kill me first... "Levi said with trembling mouth...

"Kill me first... It's me you want.... "Francis snapped...

"Kill me first.... "

Infuriated, the guard slap Levi......

"Levi....."Francis muttered rushing to his side....

From up king Jafar groan as Katherine scream Francis name again.... "Kill the liar.... "

The guard quickly hold Francis and drag him to the stone....

Francis insutilate as Katherine scream echoed in his ears.......
For a second he just stood staring at the blood.. Then the guard made him fell on his knees and lower his head to the block....
Tears fell down from his cheek into the block.... His name and Katherine screams echoed persistently in his ears... He thought about his father.. His brother.. Mother and friends......

"Any last words boy.....? The executioner ask.....

He blink, raise his head.... He glare at the crowd cheering and shouting... Kill him kill him...... "He curl his lips, more tears dripping.... Katherine voice... Levi's voice ringing in his ears... With a deep huffs.. He muttered.... "Cannibals"



OOPS.... TO BE CONTINUED


Silver biko, fine boy, please leave Francis alone

petersononome:
i knew something will happen

Hmm

kelvincoke:
good work. continue

Tnks brother

purity23:
Silver i don't like the way my heart was doing me when i was reading this episode o, if you give me heart attack
silver silver silver

Ma...

John944:
Jeez! Dont get them caught, i cant stand that!! more updates bro!

They are already caught, there is no escaping

egwolopretty:
all their efforts in running... wasted.. everything they did to escape... wasted.. just like that. waste of time when they could have been sleeping
na wa o, what wil happen now, who will die, i guess we will find out tomorrow, can't wait for tomorrow update
thanks Silver, i love you

I love you too dear

Risingstar2020:
Let me not say anything first

Fine baby@picture

PRICE OF HEARTBREAK
EPISODE 19


CALL.. CALL.. HER BACK"SHARON said in a crispy voice...

Without hesitation, she immediately dial the number.... Disappointment etched on her face.... "Switch off... "she said with clenched teeth....

Sharon exhales... She quickly placed her right palm on her head... "Where did she say Manny is..? She ask anxiously

"She said old MBH.

"The abandoned post office... "

"We need to go there now... "Mary said shapily brushing through her hair with the tip of her fingers....

Sharon suck in.... "Now.. Only the two of us..

"Yes.. Manny could be there...

"You don't know who called you, it could be a trap... It could be someone who is after her and he wants to draw us out..... "

Mary bit her lips... The words of the girl who called echoing in her head...she could be right.. Manny could be there, she would forgive herself if Manny was there and she ignored.... "Am going there Sharon.... "She said drooling her eyes for her shoes.. Slippers.. Anything... She can fit her feet in....

"Okay fine.. "Sharon said, a feeling of undercurrent sucking through her.... "Call someone... "her head spin, insutilating....."Call Jacob.. Or Francis.. Anyone that can go with us... "

Mary puff... Depression spike in her eyes at the mention of Francis... "Alright i will call Jacob to meet us there.. "

Sharon sigh, a sigh of relief... Pope words resounded in her head.... Manny could be running from some people.... "Aren't you a bit curious how the girl got your number....?

Mary snort"Sharon there is no time for this, Manny could be there.. "

"I know i know.... "She intoned.. Slowly brushing the scrap of her hair backward.... "Let me..... "She muttered crisply as she head for her room...

Mary took a deep drag as Sharon question hit her head.. Her head began to bubble with questions... Scary questions and answers.....
Disregarding the thoughts, she quickly scrol to Jacob's number.. Better Jacob than Francis.. She wasn't sure how she was going to face him yet.. After learning such a horrible truth... The truth that she totally shut out from hearing .....
Impatiently.. She waited...she swallowed hard.. Her heart pulsated... Fingers propelling each other... She purse her lips.. Waiting anxiously for him to answer....
She twitch her eyes when she saw Sharon coming out... Her eyes popped on the jean trouser she has changed into.....
"Hey... "Jacob's voice came up...
She jut her chin.. Not knowing how she was going to explain.. But she did anyway.. She told him where they were going to and he'd promised to meet them there...
With an askance face, she drop the call....

"So, is he coming.... ?Sharon ask.. .

She nodded.. Then quickly rushed into her room...
A bad feeling made Sharon shivered.... Her thoughts overwhelming her....
She pout when Mary came out of the room.. She quickly picked up her phone as Mary head for the door.....
She drag her feet behind her, every part of her screaming this could be a setup.. A total bad idea that could choke them...
She lag behind Mary as she quickly open the door....
She rushed out when she noticed Mary was waiting for her to come out.....

"If you are having second thoughts about this you can stay home.... "Mary said when she noticed the big board of disapproval etched in her face..... "It's very obvious you don't want to... "

Irritated.. She gritted.. Fingers clench in her back pocket.... "Even if i think this is a bad idea... You said it yourself.. Manny could be there... We can save her if the information proves true.... "

"Well that's just one side of it.. If it doesn't, i wouldn't want you to be blaming me for anything that happens afterwards.... "
She lour her head, then slightly raise it to face her.... "It's my decision Mary.. I told you before i want to help.... "

"Well considering the fact that just a few minutes ago, you were so unconcerned about Manny's whereabouts.. I wouldn't want it if you are doing this.. I mean agreeing to help because of what i said... "

Sharon huffs... Exasperation spiking through her.... "You said it yourself Mary.. Whatever we need to do,we need to do it fast.... You are slowing us with your talks.. "

Mary jut her chin, then she quickly lock the door with the key....
They were about to walk away when a hard knock came on the gate...
For a moment,they just stood staring at each other wondering who could be knocking....

"Jacob is already here...? Sharon muttered....
Mary bug her eyes, skeptical about the possibility of it... She walk to the gate... And quickly opened it....
Shock rose in her as she saw who was standing there.....

"Hey.... "Taiwo muttered...

"Hey... "Mary said back opening the gate widely so he could see who he came for.....

Vexation, irritability, indignation,pique,dyspepsia,resentment........all swept through Sharon as she laid eyes on Taiwo...
She scowled her face as he walk close to her.. His dark eyes staring at her like she was some stranger......."Hi... "She muttered with a wry smile... Her eyes fixated on the red velvet long sleeve he was wearing

For a moment, Taiwo just stood staring at her with folded hands across his chest....
She pull her face, rolling her eyes... Then she brushed back a strap of her hair... His gaze fixated on her made her very uncomfortable... In a ridiculous situation.... "Mmm.... "She exhales...let out a faint cough.... "Look Taiwo, this isn't really a good time for us to talk......

"When has it ever been a good time.... ?He cut in harshly..... "Have you check your phone recently... You must have seen my name repeatedly on your missed calls log... I left you dozens and dozens of messages... I waited....hoping and praying nothing hasn't happened to you... Do you realise how shocked i am to know you are alive. And okay.... "

"Sharon..... "Mary called interrupting their conversation....

Sharon took a deep drag... "Am really sorry but like i said, this isn't really a good time....
"He should come with us.. "Mary boomed out.
Sharon frown and gave her a stony look....

"Come with you..... "He shift his gaze to Mary.... "to where?

"It's nothing Taiwo.... I will call you when i get back... "Sharon blared out and began to walk pass him

"Manny is missing.... "Mary resounded.....

"Manny is missing....!

"Yes she is, and we received a call from someone who gave us a lead on her whereabouts... "She added...

With knitted brows, Sharon fold her hands across her chest and walk outside.....

"You should be telling the police, not going on a lead.... "Taiwo said drawing near to them...

"I already told the police... They seem to be doing nothing about it.... "

"You told the police.? Sharon ask shocked..

Mary gave her a dirty look... "You should have known that already if you weren't so apathetic.... "

"So you are just going there... No police.. No nothing.. What if it's a trap.... What if there is danger... ?Taiwo queried..

"More reason am asking you to come with us... If there is danger as you say.. We need you... "

Taiwo inhale deeply..... "Alright.. Lets go... But if this thing is serious than i think, you are calling the police again... "

Mary nodded.....


*****************************
Both girls look around as Taiwo's car entered the area... They scan their eyes... Fear running through them.. The place was quiet.. Unkept... Glasses were turning into bush.... The walls were a bit cracked tinge with grasses growing between the cracks.... The place look more deserted than it ever was....

"Why would anyone want to take anyone here.....? Taiwo ask the moment he stopped the car...

Sharon quivered in her spines as she stare at the building... Some doors fallen off... A perfect place for den of thieves to reside on.... "Call the girl again.... "

Mary quickly pulled out her phone from her pocket and dialed the girl's number.....
She pout..."Still switched off"

Sharon shivered.... "Do you think something could have happened to her?

"Hold on.. What girl...?

Sharon quickly turn her face away at the sound of the question...

"The girl who gave us the information..... "Mary replied with clenched teeth

"What.... And you still came... This could be a sign that it isn't right to be here.. A sign it could be a trap..

"What if it isn't a trap, what if Manny is here"Mary interjects....

Taiwo exhales... "Hey look, if the girl's phone is switched off..it certainly means, someone must have taken the phone from her and even if Manny was here....she must have been taken off if that girl was discovered making that call....

"Or the girl must have been scared and then she put off the phone.. Which means Manny could be here... either way am not leaving here without checking.... "

She took a deep breathe and prayed silently for God's protection.... Then she came out of the car....

"Mary hold on... "Sharon muttered coming out...
"Taiwo could be right.. What if Manny is not here"Sharon said over the top of the car....

"We are here already Sharon.... "She muttered....
Taiwo came down.. Look at both girls.... "Okay let's check inside..... "

Mary sigh...., she gave him a nod. She look around again.. Then she saw Jacob walking from the far end of the road....

Smiles curve her cheek... She began to walk up to him.....

"I guess am late.. "He said..

Mary gave him a wry smile.. "You are just on time.... "

Together the four of them went in.... Fear cripping inside the two girls.. Inside was hazy.. Only the sunlight penetrating from the torn zinc was visible.....

Carefully they walked over broken bottles..... Stones and parts of the walls that have fallen off...
Both girls shivered when they heard a sound...

"Did you guys hear that....? Taiwo ask putting his ears to the ground....

"There is someone here.... "Mary said in a crisply voice.... Legs trembling... Heartpounding... Eyes twirling... She press forward with the rest... Slowly they move to where the sound was coming from...
It was a room. A stone throw from them.. Probably a room used as an office....

"Stay here.... "Jacob muttered stepping forward.. Moving ahead Taiwo.

Mary scan around... Not minding Jacob's words, she pressed forward walking towards the men...

"Mary.... "Sharon call faintly.... She shudder as the sound increase... Great fear grip her pushing her forward to keep pace with the rest.....

Slowly, both boys kick the door open....
Shock raced through them....

"Who are you? Taiwo quickly ask not bothering to go near him...
"Oh my God, what are you doing here... ?Jacob queried... Both girls quickly rush to see who was inside...

Heartpounding... Feets trembling. Mary stood motionless as she stare at the person..

"Oh my God,Francis what are you doing here.... "Sharon shouted...

Francis quickly rushed to Mary but she yanked herself free from him....

"Wait you all know this guy? Taiwo ask....

"Mary i can explain..... "He said in a tender voice...

"Explain what....? Sharon retorted..... Then it hit her. "Oh my God..... Francis.. What have you done to Manny?


TO BE CONTINUED......

DEAD TRAP
EPISODE 4

STORM IS COMING.... "Brad called over his shoulder.... "Need to get to the cessna up and over the Tsholo river before the storm hits... "
"Where are we going...? Qetsiyah queried
"Botswana... "
"I..... "she lurched forward suddenly and slammed to the ground.. She bit her lips, eyes watering as she scrambled back to her feet and ran after him again.... "I need to go to Harare, you've to take me there... "
Brad stopped, spun around to face her....
"I have a major deal tomorrow... "She said panting.. Breathe raw in her throat.. "For clearwater, i need to.....
"You don't get it, do you princess...? He pointed up the ridge.... "At first light, if not before... Amal and his men are going to find our tracks, they're going to follow them right here, if we don't get into the air and over the border before that storm hits, or before they arrive....we're outnumbered and outgunned, and you are dead.. I'm here to see that isn't going to happen, which means the only place you're going right now is Botswana Where i can protect you until Ayura or his men come and take you off my hands..... "
"Anxiety, fear, desperation, failure..... It all swamped through Qetsiyah at once, overwhelming her.... "This deal.. "she said softly... "I've been working on it for four years now, if we don't sign tomorrow... I.... The villagers won't get water.... "Her voice cracked and tears spilled down her face.. She sunk to the ground and buried her face in her hands...
Something se to shift in him, because he crouched in front of her and touched her arms.. His palms rough against her skin......
"Persia.... "He said quietly... "Those delegates aren't signing tomorrow.. They're all dead"
She couldn't breathe, she started to shake as the reality of what happened at the lodge sunk into her head....
"They died because they were there with you... Amal and his men mean business ...come, we need to move.. Now... "
"Cleanwater.. "she whispered.... "Those people need water.. This mining rights deal was our way in to get it to them.. It was the last thing.. The last thing i could give them.. "
"Hey look at me... "He tilted her face up, forcing her to look at him.... "Get up onto those pretty long legs of yours, and you will live to fight another day.. Because there will be another day, another deal... "
She wanted to say there wouldn't.. She'd be getting married, this had been her last fight.. And she'd lost.. She lost it all... All thanks to Amal....
"My cessna is down there... See?
She look where he was pointing, over the grassland in faint moonlight, the fuselage of a small single prop plane glinted... Then a cloud pass over the moon and darkness was complete... Carefully she got to her knees and then to her feet...
"You ready? He said
She nodded
"Stay right behind me okay.... That's an order"He snapped..click on a flashlight and began to walk ..
She stumbled after him in the darkness... Her brain reeling as she try to process everything that has happened.... For two years, she'd naively believed that peace has finally come to their family... Now this...
The thought that her brothers had purposely misled her infuriated her... It had been like this all her life ...the older alpha males in her family always trying to coddle and protect het, supposedly for her own sake...now Amal was after her blood and they'd dispatched this brusque of a male to save her.....
"Hurry up"He yell over his shoulder as she begin to lag behind....
She bug her eyes and muttered a curse, slowing even further in softer hand...
Brad stopped, spun around.... "Jesus princess,do you want me to carry you or what..? Frustration cut through his voice..
Refusing to dignify him with an answer, she stopped bracing her hands on her hips....
"Okay this is it... "He reached forward to grab her arm but she jerk free of his grip. Standing her ground...
"You are a patronizing misogynist, you know that? She snapped.... "Call me princess one more time and i will take my chances with Amal and his men, screw you andy brothers"she boomed out... Then she caught what look like the glint of smile crossing his face... Her anger spiked.... "You think this is funny, they had no right to keep this from me"
"Yeah i don't think is funny, and they had no right to keep this from you but they are also paying my bills and my job is to get you home alive..princess.. "
"I swear it, if you call me princess one more time, you will be sorry.... "
He suck his teeth.. "Okay Persia....
"My name isn't persia, it's Qetsiyah.... "
"The name is hard to pronounce.... "
"It's Qetsiyah... Qet..... Yah"
Irritated.. He grab her hand... "Believe me, you will be more sorry if you stand here worrying about how i pronounce your name.. "
He began to drag her at a clip through the long grass towards his plane, but as they draw near, Brad felt a sudden prickling down the back of his neck.. He stilled, stopping her, something was off.. Then as he squinted into the darkness, the silver of moon broke momentarily through the clouds and he saw what his subconscious has already noticed.. The propeller was gone... A cold dread sank through his chest..
Thunder growled softly over the plain, and a fork of lightning stabbed with a loud crack down to the earth briefly and starkly illuminating the plane...
"Get down to the ground.. "he said quietly to Qetsiyah eyes fixed on his plane as he doused his flashlight..
"Why? She queried..
"Because you are a lightning rod right now?
Sensing the shift in him, she lour down crouching quietly to the soil in her torn gown....
Brad unhook his rifle, clicked off the safety and just watched the cessna for few minutes....
Another lightning growl down the earth, and in that moment of brightness, Brad saw the cessna's doors and tail flaps were also gone too... He watch,scanning his eyes around... He couldn't detect any movement around..
"Wait here... "he said... "Don't move"...
He climb into his craft, he use the flashlight to pan the interior, seats has been ripped out, the first aid kit gone... The instrument panel denuded... Everything was gone.. Everything has been ripped from the cessna like meat from a carcass... Now there was no form of communication, no water, no food, no first-aid,no gear for his principle.....
With a trembling hand.. He stayed on his stripped plane like that for a moment... Then he reach for his hip, took a deem swig and brought out the whiskey... He flushed it down his throat.... Then the thought of loosing Carla creep into his head.. It taunt him.... He would not let it happen again.. He cannot lose another woman in his care.. It would kill him this time...
That left him with one option.. Forge ahead and get this mission over with but it sure as hell isn't going to be a seventy two hours mission......
He sucked it up, the whiskey helping a little.. Then he jump down frol the plane...
He stare at her, they were going to take a long walk..... Just then it hit him, there was a satellite bush camp run by one of the lodges about fifteen kilometres to the north.. He knew it was still there.. He'd seen it while flying over this afternoon.... He could take suppliers frol there in the long run.. It was a risk he has to take....
"He crouched beside her... "Here is the deal Persia, my cessna has been stripped, we need to make a detour to....
"Stripped...? She interjects..
He wink at her... "Just the bones left"
"By who?
"Could be anyone.. Leave anything in the wrong place for too long and Africa's recyclers will find it and get to work...there's not one part of that plane that won't be used to make everything from shoes to furniture or toys and cooking utensils... I reckon whoever did it will be back at first light with equipment to drag off the rest.. Leaving the plane totally naked..
"But you do have a cell phone right?
He snorted... "Cell reception out here... You must be joking.. And who are you going to call.. Your brothers... Mercs.. Cops...
"You are telling me you left your phone on the plane.. "Anger sparked through her voice.... "Because that's damn stupid... At least we could have tried to call my brother when we got close to a cell tower or something.....
"I lost my phone and GPS in the battle to save your life...."
She went silent, her black eyes glistening in the dark....
"You coming... ?
She didn't move, he began to walk without her.. Exasperation sparkling through him...
"So what are you saying... You mean am stuck here with you.. In the middle of nowhere... "
He gave her a dashing look.. Knit his brows.... "Am afraid yes... Princess"


STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE

KINGS
EPISODE 124

EYES FUZZING,Levi blinked in the thin hazy darkness, the memory of what had happened came running back to his head... with a throbbing heart, he stare at her... She was so focused.. So eager on finding a way out.... He watch as she begin to spun around in the darkness.. Her eyes scanning round the place.. Calculating... Wishing she sees a way out...
Levi pull his face at the realization that she just killed someone.. Burnt him alive... He shudder when he dwell upon what will happen to them if they get caught.... The king will never forgive them, not this time, not with a dead guard....
He exhales when his inner mind told him there was no way out.. They were running a goose chase.....
"Who did you say you are....?
Katherine hoarse voice interrupted his thoughts.. He quickly suck his teeth, wondering why she doesn't remember.... The day they had met her in her room show vividly in his head as if it was yesterday..... "Am a friend of Francis.... "He muttered with clenched teeth....
She quickly fuse her gaze on him...
"we..... Unknowingly.. Mistakely entered your room that day...and you saved us from the Prima.... "
"You.... I remember you.... What are you doing here?
Levi gritted... "it was all Francis idea.... "
Shock wreck her face..... "Is Francis here.... ?
He nodded.... "Yes..... He...
"I don't understand, why is he here....?
"He came to rescue you... "
Katherine bug her eyes... A feeling of enthusiasm swept through her.... "Then where is he now....? She ask anxiously
Levi blink thinking of the appropriate way to break the devastating news to her..... "The king threw us in different prisons... I was taken to the slave currow... And Francis...... "He suck his teeth thinking of the possible place they could have taken Francis.... "I have no idea"
"Oh no.... "
Levi breathe out as he saw the raw feeling of depression etched in her face......
He shudder when they heard footsteps...
"They are drawing close, we need to move.... "She said shapily.... Taking one last glance at where the loud marching noise was coming from..... Then she changed into race....
Something deep tells Levi they weren't going to make it, no matter how they run.....


*****************************
Gut-wrenching, heart pumping— after several thrusts forward, his legs became tired,Adrenaline coursed through his veins....A thin layer of sweat covered the nape of his neck...Keeping his breathing steady, he pushed harder and went faster.
His breath came in short gasps,Facing forward, he began to sprint
His calves burned, her breath forming.....His feet desperately attempted to create a form of traction..
But he wasn't giving up... He continued... Pumping his legs, gaining momentum......speed with each push.
He was running so fast that he thought his legs were going to explode,Thuds of his footfalls, coming closer to each other with each bound forward
His breathing quickens, trying to appease his need for oxygen...he was running too fast but where to.... He doesn't know but something was for sure it was this night.. He needs to get out and he needs to get out with them....
He raced to a stop when he saw a door at the end of the entrance corridor.. He wonder where the door leads to... With curiosity he was inclined to find out....he dragged his feets, his legs and hands cramping and his body shaking..
With the small light that was there, he was able to see the door clearly.... The door was old... Look like it hasn't been opened for years... There was no knob.. No handle... He wonder how that one can open that kind of door.....just then he saw a hatch... he quickly began to pull it, dragging it to one side until it formed an opening.... his heart raced with joy... he peep outside.. he could hear the twirling sounds of birds and other things he doesn't know..... "Outside.... "He muttered...... "I found our way out.... "he added with joy etched on his face...
He drool his hand outside from the opened hatch.. There he found the bolt.. The door can only be open from outside... He quickly unbolt it and the door flung open.......
He took a deep breathe.. Outside was dark, stars were visible... He felt his whole body working; his leg muscles running warm, fresh air entered his lungs and blood flowed into all his limbs......."You found a way out Francis.... "He bobbed in his head...
Now all he needs to do was find Levi and the princess..... He quickly went back in and close the door... He convinced himself the place won't be hard to find...
"Francis, don't be a fool, you found your way out, escape while you still have the chance... "His inner mind keep ringing to him, but he can't leave Levi.. He is the reason Levi is here neither can he leave without the princess.. She is the reason he is here....
With this words he ran back to the corridors... Scanning his eyes everywhere.....
He quivered when he heard the sound of the guards thundering hitting their foots on the ground.... Without hesitation, he diverted into another entrance ... He ran as fast as his legs can carry him, his breaths were sharp and frantic, his eyes were wide filled with tiredness . Fear washes over him as he dwell on the possibility that he might be caught and may never escape......
"You should have escaped while you had the chance.... "his inner mind cursed....
The ground blurred below him, he continued running for what seemed like longer than it should have, but he figured it was because those guards were after him.... The only things that could hinder him from surviving were his physical limits and doubts....
The steady pound of his footsteps echoed into his ears. He felt a bead of sweat roll down his forehead and splatter to his chin, his feet hitting the ground etched greatly in his ears but he wasn’t giving up. It was the way he always released his energy that made he continue. He had to summit all to running away free.....to escape...


*****************************
Katherine grimace as she swing her feet,she lost her balance and fell on the floor....
"Princess.... "Levi rushed to her.....
"Am fine... "She said with pants breathe.....
She grimace her face as she try to stand up... She muffled in air and continue the race....
"Any idea where we are going....? Levi ask shapily tired.. greatly exhausted...
"No.... "She said with pants breathe....
Frustrated... Levi stood....
"What are you doing.... ?she ask
"Am tired... I have a feeling we aren't getting out from this place.... "
"We are getting out"she interjects with a sense of confidence...
"How... Do you know how long we have been running.. It's more like we are running in circles.... "
She exhales...... She also had that feeling before now.. That she won't be able to escape no matter how she try... "We still need to try... "
Levu pout.... "What's the point if we're going to get caught in the end.... And am seriously famished.... "He added with bug eyes....
Katherine chulkled..... "Don't lose hope now, Francis will never do that... "
"Well that's the big difference between me and Francis.. Francis has something to live for.. He needs to escape to be with you...
"What do you mean he needs to escape to be with me....?
Levi lour his lips.... "Because he loves you.. His love for you dragged him here and the funny thing is, he thinks you love him too... Of course i told him that was crazy.... He is totally insane"
Katherine scoffs.. Then smile beem on her cheeks..
They shudder when they heard footsteps approaching them.... No fire light, just a shadow running towards them....
"Hide.... "Katherine muttered...
Levi look around....everywhere was vague enough for one to roam around.. not the perfect hiding place... "Hide where...? He whisper back to her...
"Anywhere..... "
Levi exhales.. Then he fused his gaze at the direction the footsteps were coming from... He blink when the shadow began to surfaced.... "That isn't a guard..... "
"Who is that....? Katherine ask.....
They quivered, their heart almost bursting out when guards begin to rushed out from behind them....
"Run.... "Katherine shouted..... "
"Oh no, is Francis.... "Levi boomed out..... He look back,the guards were almost closing in on them.... "Francis go back.... "He shouted and begin to run towards his direction....
Francis slack-jawed as Katherine ran into his hands.....
His heart clobbered as their eyes meet.. For a second they just stood staring at each other...
"Seriously.. Now....."Levi loud mouth interrupted them...
"Don't they get tired.... "Francis said over her shoulder..... Then he slowly took her hand and they set the race together.. Hand in hand.....
They separate hands when they noticed the guards were speedily on their tracks....
"I found a way out.. "Francis blared out
"Really... Am i going home.... "Levi hollered
"Get them.... "A baritone voice shouted from behind them...
The voice sent cold chills on their spines.... With that they increase their pace... Heart stormping...feets clenching... They followed Francis as he lead the way.....

***************************
Francis head raced with Joy as he finally saw the door......
With the guards a few pace away from them.... He immediately pull out the hatch... Callously putting his hand outside....
"Ouch.... "he grimace as something scratched his hand... Without hesitation... He unbolt the door and flung it open....
Shock swept through Levi as the guards stopped chasing them...he doesn't know why but he knows something isn't right...
"This way... "Francis shouted.....
Not minding why they stopped, Levi ran to Francis direction....
Heartbeating rapidly.... They stood still as they saw the guards that begin to come out of hiding from outside......
They look back and front.. They were surrounded....
Levi huffs when he realise why the guards inside stopped chasing them.. They knew other guards were outside.....
Francis glare at them as he hold Katherine hands....
"There is no road now boy...This is the end of the road for you.... Your little hide and seek game is over.... "The head guard raved....
Levi took a deep drag.... For a moment he thought he was going to go home but it was all just imagination.. There is no going home.. All that was there is death...... "We are doomed Francis... There is no running from this one.... "
"Seize them... "The head guard ordered



WHAT HAPPENS NOW....

TO BE CONTINUED

PRICE OF HEARTBREAK
EPISODE 18

BEHIND THE MASKED SMILE she wears on her face, there was sadness and shock. She anxiously looks at from the window to her left and right, repeatedly at every single sound that passes by, checking for signs of Manny footsteps that never came......
She blink her doleful eyes as the sad taunting words words of Sharon creep into her head... She insutilate wanting to believe Manny could actually do that to her....
She lean her back on the chair weighing the pros and cons of the reason Manny will do that to her... Manny knew she loved Francis.. Even more than she loves herself.. They both knew that.. But how could she...
She swallowed hard, sniff as tears began to descend down her cheek... She quickly wipe them off.. Drying her face clean with her hands....
She pick up the diary but the thought, the thought of her best friend ruining her like that taunted her mind.... It felt like an unending sadness really.. Willing to burst through her.... She shake off the thought again. She was inclined to ask her why she did do that... But she can only do that when she is found.. When she's safety home with them..
She quickly wined back to the diary... Grunting out all she was feeling.. The pain and sadness that has iced into tears gathering in her eyes, waiting for her to dwell upon them so they can rush out....
She held on to her strength.. Convincing herself to never break down with the truth.. A thought kept her going.. Manny is a better friend than that... Her mind began to dwell on the things Manny has done for her... Though she isn't proud of the things Manny has done. Especially the one he did to her. But she can't sideline her.. No matter what she feels.. Manny was still her friend, and she owes her an obligation to look out for her and that includes finding her.. Wherever she is...
With this thoughts, she prone her eyes on the diary....she sniff as she flip the sheets to where she stopped.....
She emit as she thought the business Manny had with the senator.... Then it occurred to her.. The memories that eluded her keep running back in a speed... Manny has tried to blackmail the senator.....
The scary thought of it drive her body to shuddered.....
"Why isn't there food in the kitchen?
Sharon's voice interrupted her... She raise her head to face her, she has changed into bun shot.... A small shirt exposing her stomach....
She lour back her head to the diary not bothering to answer her question...
Sharon groan and walk back to the kitchen...
She raise her head when Sharon was gone.. She took a deep drag, then lean her head on her right hand......
Nausea suck into her stomach.... She raise her head again.. Grunts and let out air....
A strange feeling drowned in her. A feeling she won't be able to shake off easily....
Then Sharon harsh words came rushing back to her head... Francis was right, he'd always be right but she chose not to listen.. She close in on him and now it was making her feel bad..like the guilty one... Her conscience screaming and bugging her for been so hard on him.....
She glance back at the diary.. Then she slowly drop it when it occurred to her she couldn't do it... Couldn't concentrate... The news of Manny's betrayal drowned deep in her heart... There was nothing more in her head other than a powerful blindness... A terrible push over that made her not to see reasons with him.. Not to hear him out...she cursed she will never forgive herself....
Slowly she drove into an oblivion of self pity.. Sharon's words of Manny's betrayal were beginning to grow into rage.. Anger and total hatred....
She quickly pulled out from her thoughts when she realise she was going too deep.....
She stood up and suck in all the air she can get... Her right hand slammed on her foreheaf... Her Left on her hip... She spun around weighing the pros and cons of how to put the thoughts away... They were hunting her.. Taunting her... Screaming at her to hate her.. Whispering in her ears she deserves every hatred....
With a huff, she dive back on the chair and begin to focus on the good thoughts. 'the positive thoughts of Manny....
She exhale when Sharon came in... Though she hated her outburst but a part of her was glad she was here, she needed a distraction and Sharon could fit in... Fit into that big and empty space her thoughts were screaming from......
She gasp for breathe as Sharon sat on the chair..a chair away from her...
She steam when she saw the expression etched on Sharon's face.. She was probably vexed.. angry she ignored her earlier..... "Am sorry... "She muttered..... Realizing her snubbing was childish.. Totally uncalled for..
Sharon didnt reply, instead she pick up the remote and increase the volume... She quickly change the channel into a music channel....
Mary sigh... "I saw something in Manny's diary....."She said. Waiting anxiously for Sharon's reply...
She suck her teeth when none came.. Then she continued..... "On the last sheet she has written on.. She wrote she was falling for sun... I checked her wardrobe and i saw a Teddybear...it was tag lovesun..... Do you perhaps know who that is... ?
Mary gave her a stony look, anger surged her spines.... ..."I ask Jacob,he said it isn't him, now am totally out of ideas... Since you know Manny very well, i thought you could clue me in.... "
"I don't know who that is... "Sharon said impetuously
"Fine, but you do know Senator Bassey, don't you? Mary ask irritated
Sharon snort..... "Am done with Manny okay... "She boomed out
Mary puff out her lips.... "Manny is our friend...."Mary retorted...... She huffs... "Just because she did some things to us doesn't change the fact that she's our friend.... "
"Fine, since you are so bent on finding her, find her.. Stop dragging me into your nonsense.... "Sharon latched out
Mary stood up furiously..... "You have forgotten so soon all the things Manny did for you...... "She slam her hand on her forehead, drop it and suck in air..... "You have forgotten everything Manny went through to get you where you are today... On your First year in our universities days, when you were chased out of exam hall because your parents had no money to pay your school fees.. Who paid your school fees.... Manny did, she use her last kobo to pay that so you can write the exam..,When you were caught cheating in the exam hall, Manny took the blame and fall for that, she was suspended from school, she had to exonerate herself from the suspension with lots of money, money you didn't even add a kobo to, when your father was sick in the village and you and your mother had no money to pay, who paid.... Manny did,she had to LovePeddler herself out so she could get the money while you stay here and cry all day..., Who bailed you out when your carelessness with Pope land you in prison.. Manny did, she did with her school fees.. Who gave you shelter...? The big girl that you are today was all Manny..the live you are living now, Manny made that possible,so don't you dare stand there and tell me Manny isn't a friend. Manny is worth more than a million friends... She has made mistakes am not proud of.... But she still remains my best friend.. Manny would have gone to hell and aback if you were in her choose because she cares... So if you are given up on her.... Am not... I would rest even for a second until i find her.... .."She concluded....
She inhale then sit back on the chair....
Sharon poke her eyes as she dwell on the things Manny has done for her.... ..
With a low grunt she ask....she stood up and walked out....
Mary exhales.... She eyes bulged when Sharon came back.....
"What did you say you found out? She ask with a sniff.....
"What is that, a guilty conscience.....? Mary snapped...
"I want to help okay.... Yes i know Manny did all that for me, i know she would have gone to hell and aback if i were in her choose... Isn't that enough reason to help?
"Fine..... Look at this... "She said tossing the diary in her hand.... Then she flip to the sheet the senators name was mentioned...... "What does that tell you.....?
Sharon fuse her eyes on the writings...."The senator and Manny had a thing a few months ago.... "She said with clenched teeth....
"I don't understand, was Manny into him.... ?Mary queried...
"Yes.. They were dating... Something happened and they broke up.... "
"What something....?
"I don't know, Manny didn't tell me.... "
Mary gritted as her phone begin to vibrate ln the chair ...she huffs when she noticed it was a strange number .....with curiosity, she quickly answer the call....
"Hello... "She muttered...
There was silent from the other end....
"Hello"She said again...
A trembling voice quickly came up.....
With shock Mary listen to what the person was saying... Then the call ended...
"Hello.. Hello... "she shouted...
Ribs tinkling.. Eyes sparkling she stare at Sharon...
"What is it,who called.....?
"She said she found Manny"She said with trembling mouth...
"I Dont understand.. Who found Manny, who is she.... ?
"I have no idea"

STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT EPISODE

LOVE IN A CIRCLE
EPISODE 15

THAT SUNDAY EVENING, Noah and Leonard decided to visit their injured friend at the hospital.. It was 4:15pm when they arrived at Davin's hospital...
"Are you sure he is alright..? Leonard ask as they walk into the hospital premises....
Noah nodded shabbily... His thoughts dwell on what Leonard has told him last nigh... Shayna was his official girlfriend now..... He just have to stop thinking about it....
They walk straight to the hospital reception, Noah quickly remenber what he has saw the previous day, how could he forget such an important thing......
"Hello.... "Leonard began... "A friend of ours was brought here yesterday, he was injured.. A bite.. More like a dog bite... "
"What is his name..? The girl ask..
Leonard wink at Noah.... "We are not really sure what his name is... We saw him badly injured.. Almost at the verge of death.. So we brought in here..... "
The girl suck her teeth... "I remember you... The guys with that man yesterday...
"Exactly.... "Noah interjects...
They thanked the girl after he told them the room then they left...
"Did you see the picture on that man's car yesterday...? Noah ask picturing the whole scene in his head..
"What man's car?
The man that brought us here.. Same man that took us home... Ring a bell?
"No, i didn't see any picture.. Did you see any...?
Noah gritted... "If i didn't, i wouldn't be asking..... "He snap
"So whose picture was it...?
"It was a picture of your girlfriend...."
"Girlfriend.... !
"Shayna... "Noah snapped ...."The picture was hung beside the car steering.. "
"I didn't see it... Who do you think he is....?
Noah scoffs at his question.. Then he fold his hands across his chest....
Leonard wink at him with a shrug....
"I think he's her father.... "Noah boom out after a slight pause


****************************
GENTLY AND SLOWLY, Nathaniel opened the hospital room door, he frown when he noticed his mother was still sitting there....
"Damn it woman... "He cursed....
"John... "Luke's mother called upon seeing him...
Nathaniel force a smile on his face... ''How is he doing...? He ask walking towards her....
"Still the same, he hasn't regain consciousness yet... "She said with doleful eyes.... "Thank you for coming... "He added
"He is gonna be okay, i believe that.... "Nataniel said...
Luke's mother look at her son body... She still cant believe Luke did that to himself..... She shift her gaze tp Nataniel.... "John i need you to stay here with him, i need to get to somewhere.... "
Nataniel gave him a wry smile... Enthusiasm prick him... "Don't worry, i will take care of him, you can take your time... "
She thanked him, haul one more glance at her son, then she left the room...
Nataniel watch her until she was out of sight... Then he quickly close the door, drop the curtains and sat beside Luke... "Hey body... Can you hear me.. Mummy is gone.. Who will save you now....?
His smiles quickly change unto frown.. He took his hands and held it in his.... "You made a very big mistake falling in love with a girl of my brother..... My brother's girlfriend.... "She echales when he look at his face.... "Why am i even talking to you, is not like you can hear me...... "He roam his fingers on the bandages on his forehead.... "You should have died when your head hit that wall.. If you'd died then.. I wouldn't be going through this stress...
He took his hands, roam his fingers on his vein.... "Pity...., i really do... You won't believe it.. But i hate to kill you.... "He shook his head.. Then he puff"What am i even saying.. Irony it is... The truth is.. I will enjoy killing you"with that, he prick the syringe in his hand
"Who are you? Luke's faint voice sounded...
Nataniel shudder when he heard his faint voice..he glance at him....then he quickly remove the syringe "Now this is going to be so much fun... Pretending you don't know me, you are taking this game to a different dimension.... "
Luke gasp.. He pants.... "Who are you... "He ask again.. He scan his eyes around. '."Why am i here.... How did i get here..."
Nataniel furrow his brows when the door opened and a nurse rushed in....
Luke started coughing..profusely,blood dropping from his hand...
"Oh my God, you are bleeding...! The nurse blared out..
"He.. He.... "he jecked his head back into the bed....
The nurse try to stabilize him, just then he return back into unconsciousness.....
"Is he okay.? Nataniel quickly ask..
"He need to rest... "The nurse said..
Nataniel took a deep drag, glad the idiot didn't say anything

to be continued