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He later moved out of the palace and vowed never to return again. He moved to Owerri and started life afresh. He started managing his already late fathers oil company and his other properties there.
Uchenna switched off his phone so as to enable the constant ringing which was starting to give him a headache. Few minutes later, a tall, lanky and dark skinned lady dressed in a black suit walked in. She had pimples all over her face. She was Uchennas loyal and pretty secretary, Jane.
"Sir, the investors have arrived" she told him after prostrating.
He sat up and widened his eyes.
"Really, are you sure?"
"Yes, sir. They are waiting in the board room"
"Uhhh, okay..." He got up and began picking up the necessary documents he needed. This was going to be one of the biggest and most crucial meetings of his life. His company, Ezenwa oil and gas, had been facing some financial difficulties these past few years and it was threatening to fold. He decided to form a partnership with multi million naira oil industry, Sunfield Oil and gas so as to save his fathers crumbling legacy. He had called for a meeting that Saturday and as usual, he was nervous.
He looked at his reflection on his phone and wiped his face. He dressed his collar and made sure his suit was in place. When he was done, he approached Jane and asked her.
"So, how do I look?"
Jane smiled a little, while blushing as well and replied "perfect"
Uche nodded and made a quick, silent prayer.
"Don't worry, we'll get the alliance. I know that" she assured.
"Thanks" he responded. He opened the door and pointed charmingly outside "After you"
Jane smiled again and walked outside. Uche followed and locked the door.
They walked to the boardroom in silence and nervousness. They finally arrived and opened the door. All the guests were already seated, including Susan and George, the General Managers of Sunfield and a few foreigners. Uchenna greeted them and walked in front of the room. The briefing started in earnest.
Uchenna told them a brief history of Ezenwa oil and it's achievements so far. He told them it's current total net worth and the benefits that would be attained from the alliance. He tried his best to be as fluent and persuasive as possible and made the offer too good to resist. When he was done, the investors asked him a few questions which he all answered well. After which, he and Jane we're excused from the room so they could talk amongst themselves.
Uchenna was restless all throughout his stay outside. He kept asking Jane questions about his performance and even though she told him he was fine, he refused to be satisfied.
"I cleared my throat too much. And I kept saying 'um...um' like I was not sure of what I was saying. Wasn't my voice too loud? Oh God, I failed terribly!" He lamented. Jane covered her ears and kept rolling her eyes.
After what seemed like eternity, they were call back in. Uchenna went back to his former position and tried to cover his nervousness. George was the first to speak up.
"Um" he cleared his throat "Mr Ezenwa. We looked into the offer that you have given us thus far, and after much deliberation and discussion amongst ourselves, we have decided to accept your offer and form an alliance with you"
"YES!!!" Uche exclaimed excitedly without thinking twice. When he realized himself, he laughed a little bit and corrected himself "I mean, thank you very much, you will not regret your decision"
"We hope not" said Susan amused. She dipped her hand into her bag and brought out a document.
"Right there are our terms and conditions of the agreement. Go through it and let me know if there are any problems you have with them" she explained. He tool it and nodded his head.
"You'll be coming over to our house tomorrow for the signing of the necessary documents. Remember to come with a camera man if possible and your secretary. Here's my address. The time you'll be coming is also indicated there" she said and handed him a piece of paper. He felt uneasy at the idea as he took it but he didn't refuse it anyways.
"Thank you madam" he greeted once again.
"You're welcome. Anyways, we'll be leaving now" she announced as all the members stood up and got ready to go. They shook hands with Uchenna before he and Jane lead them out of the building. When he returned, all the employees stopped moving and stared at him expectantly waiting for a response from him, nervousness written all over their faces. Work had frozen and it seemed time had stopped. This would determine whether or not they would still retain their jobs there. Uche jokingly kept a sad face which brought down their spirits before he lit up again and shouted.
"DRINKS ON ME, FOLKS!!!!!"
The entire building was thrown into excitement. Some heaved sighs of relief. They shouted on top of their voices and danced around. Those who couldn't contain their joy rushed and hugged their strict boss. He hugged them back, he was too happy to refuse.
Work closed early that day and all the interested workers followed Uchenna to the nearest bar to celebrate. Those who were too 'holy' declined and retired to their homes for rest instead. It was indeed a joyous day for all of them.

damselposh:
I have been following and i must confess, you are doing really good.

No one is perfect and you know that, just give your updates chapters or episodes and correct few grammatical errors and then you are good to go.


My opinion though.


Shalom

Thanks dear, I'll look into what you observed.

"Well, do you forgive me?" She repeated
"Fine, just mind yourself Biko" Rose warned and headed for the cupboard. She opened it and brought out a white nylon which had SHOPRITE imprinted on it. She smiled and handed it to Gift.
"For you"
Gift took it and opened it. She raised her brows and gasped in amazement. There were beautiful dresses stacked neatly inside, all wrapped up and packaged well. She couldn't believe it.
"You brought all these for me?"
"Yeah. I've noticed that you don't have enough clothes. So, I got you some. Surprise!"
"Awwww, thanks" she said and hugged her.
"Come to think of it, why don't you have enough clothes? Aren't you paid a salary?"
"I am, but it all goes to my mother in the village. She's sick you know, and I need to take care of her"
"Eyahhh, but you should at least take some to take care of yourself, I'm sure she would understand"
Gift shrugged her shoulders
"I'll think about it. Anyways, I need to go now. Madam said I should prepare rice for dinner. Thanks for the gift again"
"Sure, anytime. What are friends for"
Gift nodded her head and picked up her cleaning items. She headed out of the room.
"I'll be coming to your room this night oooooo"
"Okay, no probs" she responded.
* * * * *
Uchenna typed furiously on his laptop as he sweated profusely. His eyes were fixed on the screen of the computer in stern concentration due to the nature of the records he was typing. After he was done, he sighed and stretched his neck in relief.
"Finally"he muttered. He had been at that job for hours.
After some time, his large Apple smartphone rang. He picked it up checked the caller ID. It was Erinma, his mother. He hissed and cut the call. He had vowed never to pick a single call from her again after he found out what she did. He had discovered that it was her who had set Ngozi up and ruined their relationship. But, it was too late.
It all started two years ago. Uchenna had visited the palace for a vacation since he started work in the city. One cool evening, he had decided to stroll the gardens a little. He followed the backdoor and caught two maids talking, probably gossiping their lives away. Curiously, he decided to listen to them, before giving them the scolding of their lives.
"Ehenh, Ada, I wanted to ask you about that girl that came to the queen few weeks ago to ask help from her. I remember seeing that same girl few months ago, arguing with the prince, even though I don't know what they argued about" said the short and rather ugly maid
"Oh, I remember her. Hm, can you believe that, that was the princes girlfriend?"
The ugly maid raised her brows. "Hm!"
"Yes, but that isn't the gist of it. The prince intended to marry her but his mother destroyed the relationship. How? She coninived with Udenna, who is supposed to be his best friend oooo, and set up the poor girl. They paid some ruffian to lure and rape her and then brought the prince to the scene so it would seem she was cheating on him. I don't know how they really pulled it off, though" she explained.
"Wow, that woman is mean oooo" her listener said while clapping her hands.
Uchenna stood where he was, frozen and dumbfounded. He couldn't believe his ears. Was it just some fairytale? Was the maid making up stories? No, Adanne was one of the Queen's closest maid. She couldn't be lying. He shook his head and confronted them.
"Adanne!" He bellowed.
Both girls turned back and became frightened at his sight.
"Umm, good evening my prince. How long have you been there?" Adanne asked nervously.
"Everything you said now, is it true?"
" Everything i........"
"Don't play jokes with me!!! Tell me the truth!!!" He roared.
"Yes, yes my prince" the poor girl squeaked.
He breathed furiously and began storming away. Those good-for-nothing liars were gonna pay.
"Heeyeh! Chinyere you and your gossip will kill me oooooo" said Ada panicking and jogging after him.
Udenna whistled away as he washed the black hilux van that stood in front of him, unsuspecting of any danger. Suddenly, he heard his name from behind and before he could react, the prince ran a punch on his face, which threw him down. Unsatisfied, he pounced on him and punched him furiously.
"Good for nothing snake, how could you, I TRUSTED YOU!!!!!!"
Soon, the entire members of the palace poured out to separate the two. It was a state of pandemonium. When Uche had been calmed, Erinma came to him.
"Uchenna, what's the meaning of this?!"
"DON'T UCHENNA ME! How, how could you mum. How could you take away from me the only woman I have ever loved all because of your selfishness. Is that how you are?"
Erinmas heart skipped and she became nervous.
"Uche....wh.... what are you talking abo......."
"Don't you dare play innocent with me. I know the truth now. I know about both of your evil schemes" he said pointing at Ude.
"And you know what? I swear that you're gonna pay for this, all of you!!!!" He barked and entered the car. He began to drive furiously to the gate admist pleas from Erinma and others.
"Open the fucking gate!!!!" He yelled at the gate guard who quickly obeyed. Like a flash of lightning, Uchenna zoomed out of the palace.
As he drove, he had tears in his eyes. How, how could he have been so stupid. He never should have treated Ngozi that way. But would she ever forgive him? After all the names he called her. 'slut, LovePeddler, daughter of a drunkard' he remembered it all and the more he did, the more the tears kept flowing.
"Bleep you Uchenna" he muttered.
He arrived her compound but the door was locked. He checked the backyard but it was deserted, nothing in the kitchen. He went back to the front and called a young woman who was passing by.
"Please do you know where the occupants of this house went?" He asked after she greeted.
"Oh, Mama Ngozi and Ngozi. Actually, I don't know. You see, they packed out from this house a few months ago and nobody knows there whereabouts I'm afraid. Even Obinna has gone missing"
"Ohhhh shit!" He cried after punching the car. The tears came back.
"My prince, is there any problem?" She asked concerndly.
"No there isn't. Thanks for your help" he replied while wiping his eyes. He got into his car and drove off, to clear his head.....

PART 2
2 years later.
* * * * *
She whistled a gospel song as she dusted the glass table with a wet handkerchief. There was a blue bucket of water with a mop inside it by her side. When she was done cleaning the table, she squeezed the cloth and let out a sigh of relief. She turned backwards and noticed that the huge painting of an African village that was hung on the wall wasn't balanced. She climbed up on the sofa and made for the picture when someone called her name.
"Be careful with that, Gift" she said.
A little frightened, She turned and saw her madam, Susan.
"That image cost a lot. If it gets ruined, you'll pay for it" Susan warned.
"Yes madam, good morning"
"Good morning. I'm heading to work now. When you're true with the cleaning, tell Iniobong that we'll have fried rice for dinner, okay?"
"Yes madam, have a nice day" she wished. Susan just nodded and walked out.
Ngozi climbed down the sofa and inspected the work she'd done so far. It was all good. She sighed as her mind suddenly drifted to her arrival and work experience in the Okoye's house.
She was employed a few days after she first went there. She had garnered favour in her eyes and since her employment and since then, life had been generally good for her. She was in good terms with her employers and had a good pay even though it all went to her mother in the village. She was'nt too bothered though as her employment covered feeding and accommodation, even though clothing was a problem. Another thing that they had changed about her since she arrived was her name. They had changed it from Ngozi to Gift, stressing that Ngozi was too local a name but it's English meaning was much better. Although she wasn't too happy with the idea, she decided to co-operate with her master's for peace to reign. Nevertheless, she had peace of mind and had forgotten all about her bitter past.
Gift picked up the mop and bucket and headed upstairs. She arrived the hallway which led to the kitchen and headed for it when she remembered she hadn't cleaned Roses room. She quickly stopped in front of the door and knocked.
"Who's there?!" Rose shouted from the bathroom in the, also in the room. She was having a shower.
"Madam Rose, please I'm here to clean the room" Gift replied.
"Come in"
Gift opened the door and was greeted by the strong smell of cigarettes and alcohol which lay scattered on a stool, close to the bed. She shook her head and wondered how a young lady like Rose could be so attached to alcohol. It was, uncanny.
She proceeded to start cleaning when Rose opened the door of the bathroom.
"Good morning madam Rose"
Rose frowned deeply at the greeting.
"How many times have I told you not to address me as 'madam'? For goodness sake, Gift I'm just 23, not a grandma! just call me Rose, what's so hard about that? And I thought we were friends?"
"I'm sorry, Rose, it keeps slipping my mind" Gift pleaded.
Surprising as it may sound, Gift and Rose had become good friends a year after her arrival. It was on one of the occasions when Gift came to clean the room. She had seen a beautiful, purple gown sprawled on the bed and had gotten attracted. She placed it on her chest and looked at the mirror. It fit her well as she looked like a princess. As she was still admiring the figure in the mirror, Rose walked in and frightened her.
"What do you think you're doing?"
"Oh, I'm sorry madam, I was just.....I'll keep this now" she folded the gown and dropped it on the bed. She made to leave when Rose stopped her.
"Wait. You know what, you can have the dress. I hate it anyways"
Gift stared at her in disbelief. She excitedly took the dress and thanked her very well. Finally, she said.
"You know what madam, you are a very nice woman. If only you could just open yourself to more people and make more friends, life would be much better for you. Anyways, thanks so much again" she walked away with her new gift and Rose stared away in astonishment. She contemplated what she said and found out that she was right. She needed more friends. All she had were Doris and Edwin and a few Fairweather friends. She needed a true friend.
Later that night, she visited Gift in her room and the both of them bonded. They had similar likes such as their deep love for purple and other similarities. That was the birth of a new friendship.

Episode 18
"Don't worry Ngo, you look great" Amaka told her for the umpteenth time.
"Oh, I don't know Amaka. You know I'm not used to wearing trousers" Ngozi told her while looking at the large mirror opposite her. She was wearing a blue shirt with a pair of dark blue jean trousers.
"And besides" she continued "I don't feel comfortable, they're way to tight and restrict my movement"
"Don't worry, you'll be fine" Amaka assured while getting up from the mattress and holding her shoulders
"Listen, if you want to better your chances of getting a job in the city, you need to look like a city babe. And not one sister 'Mary Amaka' who just arrived from the village"
"I don't see how wearing trousers will boost my chances of getting a job, Amaka"
"Trust me, am I not your city friend again" she said and gave an assuring smile.
Ngozi rolled her eyes and raised both of her hands.
"Fine, you win"
"Great! Now you're all set" she said while brushing her hair.
"You really are beautiful, Ngozi. It's such a pity that guy left you"
Ngozi hissed "whatever"
"Anyway, you'll be going now. Now listen, when you step out of the compound, just turn to your right. Walk straight until you get to an estate"
"What's an estate?"
"Oh, it's like a street that has a line of big and beautiful houses. Don't worry, you'll recognize it when you see it. When you get there, tell the gateman that it was Amaka that sent you. He'll know what to do. I told him that my friend was coming to look for a job and he invited you to the estate. Perhaps theres an opening there and he wants you to apply. So you'll have to go. If you don't see anything, you'll come back and we'll search the whole city for you, okay?''
"Okay, but won't you be following me"
"No, duh, I have to go to work. As it is I'm already late,I don't want that woman's wahala" she said as she picked up her brown hand bag. She was already dressed in a jumpsuit
She turned and noticed Ngozi looked a bit worried. She held her shoulders and smiled.
"Don't worry, nothing will happen to you. I won't deceive you, okay?"
Ngozi nodded her head and gave a fake smile. She was very nervous. Amaka led her out of the room and locked the door. They both went out of the compound and stopped at the little junction.
"Just head straight, it's not far from here, you will see the estate, hm" Amaka directed pointing right.
"Ooh"
"Okay, let me start going. Here's the key, bye" Amaka gave her a single key and hurriedly walked away to the left direction. Ngozi sighed and began to walk where her friend led her. She bowed her head shyly as she went, avoiding the gaze of some passers by. She would occasionally look up to see if she had arrived the estate.
After a few minutes walk, she arrived in front of a large gate and inside the gate, was a line of huge and beautiful houses, which marked Amakas description. She walked inside and met a fair, tall and muscular man, dressed in a light blue shirt, a pair of dark trousers, and a matching cap, sitting down and reading an old newspaper. He was the security guard. She walked towards him and drew his attention.
"Good afternoon, sir"
"Afternoon, how may I help you?"
"My name is Ngozi. My friend, Amaka sent me"
"Ohhhh, the girl from the village. You're welcome, how are you?"
"Fine sir"
"Amaka told me what you came for. Fortunately for you, one of my ogas here, and a very good friend of mine, asked me to help him get a maid for him, which is why I told her to call you. The vacancy is still open, if you're interested, of course"
"Yes sir, please"
He nodded his head "okay, let me take you there" he said and got up from the chair. He walked in and talked to the other security man inside before heading of with Ngozi.
As they walked, Ngozi couldn't help but admire all the magnificent houses that were erected there. She imagined herself being the owner of one of those houses. She shook her head in disbelief. Poverty was really a terrible disease.
They got to the sixteenth house at the estate and stopped. It was a large mansion, which could be the most beautiful she had seen so far. The security guard knocked at the gate four times and soon, the peep hole was slid open. The eyes recognized him and the gate was opened.
"Ah, Nonso, how par now?" Said Yahaya, the hausa gate man in a strong accent who was with a small radio.
"Yahaya my guy, I dey oooo." He responded and they shook hands.
"Ehenh, remember that time wey off George tell me say im de look for house help wey go hep madam Ini?''
"Mmmm, I remember" Yahaya said
"Well, I don bring am" Nonso said and pointed out Ngozi.
"Good afternoon sir"Ngozi prostrated shyly.
"Good apternoon my priend. Wetin be your name?" Yahaya asked, beaming.
"Ngozi"
"Nkosi"
"No sir, N-go-zi"
"Oookkay, Ngosi?
"Never mind" Ngozi said giving up. Nonso kept chuckling
"Anyways, Mallam Yahaya, go call madam Ini"
"Yes sir" Yahaya stamped and dashed into the house. After a few minutes, he was out with Iniobong.
"Madam, Ini, good afternoon oooooo" Nonso greeted when she came out.
"Thank you, Nonso. Is this the girl?"
"Yes madam. Well, I guess she's in your care, let me start going. Bye" Nonso said after glancing at his watch. He then walked away.
"Good afternoon ma"Ngozi greeted.
"Afternoon, my dear, please come in" Iniobong ushered her in.
"What's your name?"
"Ngozi ma"
"Beautiful name for a beautiful girl"
"Thanks ma" Ngozi said blushing.
"You know what, I like you already. And I think George and Susan will to. You have the job, trust me"
"I'll appreciate it ma"
"Come, lets go in" she said and both of them began walking into the large mansion.

Ngozi never new that her adventures, had only begun.......

*****
Ngozi found some difficulty blending in when she arrived the busy city of Owerri, the capital of Imo state. Everybody was in such a hastened, some were pushing while some were yelling at each other, and her due to her sluggishness. Some people, who had noticed her character immediately identified her as a typical village girl who had just arrived the big city newly.
Ngozi found some difficulty locating Amakas resident from the park. If not for the timely intervention of some good citizens, she could have been lost. She couldn't identify left from right and found herself going in circles at some point.
It was nightfall by the time she arrived Amakas home. It was a typical public compound, which was porous and dirty. As Ngozi asked for Amakas exact door from the neighbors who sat outside discussing the woes of the country, some who had never seen her eyed her suspiciously and mischievously.
She took a deep breath and knocked three times on the door. She was very nervous and happy because she hadn't seen Amaka for a long time, and wondered how she looked now. After another knock, the door was thrown open, and Amaka who was clad in only a wrapper and a facemask exclaimed when she saw her.
"Ngo!!"
"Amii!!!"
They embraced each other warmly admist laughter. After sometime, they let each other go.
"Please, come in" Amaka said.
Ngozi walked in and looked around the sparsley furnished one room apartment. It only had a mattress and a cupboard with a table and a make up set, with a mirror on it. It also had a few kitchen utensils.
"Abeg, stop looking around, I know my room is terrible" she said jokingly.
"Nooo, it's actually pretty nice, it's simple"
Amaka hissed and sat down on the mattress while Ngozi followed suit.
"So, how far na? It's been a long time ooo, how my peeps for village?"
"They de, but abeg leave those people. Nna, Amaka, you've become a big girl ooo, I can smell the city life all over you. See how you come they use city grammar de greet me"
Amaka rolled her eyes sarcastically.
"Biko leave that talk. Do you think city life is a bed of roses? The struggle her pass the one for village farm, make I tell you"
"But where do you work now?"
"Nna, I just dey help one stingy woman manage her hair salon. But I go soon commot"
Ngozi shook her head.
"Nna, this one I come city, you dey sure I go find job"
"Of course you will, and I will help you. So relax, this Amaka no dey disappoint"
Ngozi sighed in relief.
"But you know, you haven't really told me why you left Ngalaba"
Ngozi sighed.
"I was banished, by the queen"
Amaka raised her brows "why naa?"
"Nna, it's a long story. But anyways, my mother is sick, so I came her to get a job and care for her. She's currently in my uncles house"
"Na wah oooo, what about your boyfriend naaa?"
"Which one?"
"The prince"
"Abeg no just vex me naa, you better leave that talk about that idiot now"
"Heyyyyy, wetin happen?"
"I don't want to talk about it. Listen, all you need to know is that men are nothing but a bunch of idiots. Don't ever trust them, all they'll ruin you, okay?"
"Okay oooo, it's your choice"
Soon, Ngozi's stomach grumbled.
"Abeg you get wetin I go eat?"
"Na indomie I cook ooo"
"Nna, na wetin people for town dey eat, snake?"
"Well, you can eat it, or, you can let hunger kill you" Amaka replied with a smile. Ngozis stomach grumbled yet again.
"You know what, I think I'm even ready for snake venom sef"
Ngozi and Amaka burst into a round of laughter.
"Make I go bring am" Amaka said and in no time, she was on her way to the public kitchen.

Episode 17
A few weeks passed, and Ngozi was able to pay for her mothers heart operation. She was transferred to a specialist hospital in Owerri where she carried out a successful surgery, by the grace of God. Ngozi was very happy that she was able to save her mother and Beartice was recovering very fast.
A month later, Beartice was discharged from the hospital but was shocked when she found out that they has been banished. Ngozi informed her of how she got the money but didn't tell her the Queen had exiled her. She was even more surprised when she discovered that Ngozi and Uchenna had broken up, but Ngozi refused to tell her why. All she said was.
"It wasn't meant to be"
Anyways, Ngozi concluded that Beartice would be going to her younger brothers house to live which was in the neighbouring community of Uzochi. It was the same uncle of hers that paid Beatrice's hospital bill in the community hospital, Uncle Okoro. He was quite wealthy, and was glad to accept his elder sister into his busy and populated home. Ngozi on the other hand d decided she would be going to Owerri, the city, to start life again there. She had two major reasons; one was because she needed to get a job and provide for her mother by sending money constantly since Uncle Okoro refused to carter for some needs like drugs. Second was because, she wanted to leave Ngalaba and all the painful memories of Uchenna and heart break it brought her. She needed to start life afresh.
A few weeks after staying in Okoros house, she packed her bags and got ready to set of for the big city life. She would be staying with her very close friend, Amaka, who had left for Owerri about a year ago and had settled down. Ngozi had sent her a message, informing her and Amaka was gladly willing to accept her.
The morning when Ngozi had gotten ready to leave, Beartice tried desperately to hold back her tears. She prayed for her daughter who had been with her for many years. It was a sad separation that needed to happen. A mark of womanhood and maturity. After a couple of goodbyes, Uncle Okoro gave her some money and in no time, she was of into another different phase of her life, that would finally, mark her fate.

After a long walk to the palace, she finally arrived. As she stood in front of the gate, she became nervous. She had remembered this scenario before. All the painful memories began to fly in.
She wipped the tear that dropped from her left eye and cleaned up her face. She had vowed never to cry because of him again, he didn't deserve it. Besides, she wasn't here to plead with him to come back, she came to ask for help. She straightened up and knocked on the gate.
A few seconds later, the peephole was opened by another, unfamiliar guard. He was short and fair skinned with thick, bushy hair. He looked friendly, unlike the first.
"Yes?" he asked "how may I help you?"
"Please I'm here to see prince Uchenna, is he around?" She asked as softly as she could.
"Who are you to him?"
"Well"she bowed her head "I'm his ex girlfriend. My name is Ngozi"
"Ngozi...."he pondered for a while "Oh yes, I remember you now. You are that girl that came to plead with him one month ago, right?"
"Yes"
"Why do you want to see him? I thought he warned you never to come here again?
"My mother is severely Ill, and I need seven million naira for her treatment, but I don't know where to get it. I believe Uche can help me, even though things are not well between us. Please let me see him, my mother keeps dying day by day" she pleaded.
"Eyahhh, well I'm sorry, but Prince Uche travelled to Owerri a month ago, not too long after your heated encounter with him and we haven't heard from him since then"
"Ah!" She placed her hands on her head "I'm finished, where do I go from here now? God WHY?" She broke down in tears.
The guard got moved by this act and shook his head. There was silence between them for a while, when an idea suddenly came to him.
"You know what? Why don't I take you to queen Erinma. She's sitting at the palace gardens now, you should see her. Maybe she might help you"
Ngozi shook her head in disbelief. How could Erinma help her when she also hated her. There last encounter didn't even go well. Nevertheless, she needed to give it a try.
"Alright, let's go"
The guard opened the gate and she walked in. He closed it again and began to lead her to the gardens. As they walked, Ngozi bowed her head, trying to hide her already famous face. Some people, who recognized her began to talk amongst themselves in whispers while pointing at her. Others just shook their heads.
They finally arrived the garden, where the gracious queen seemed to be having the time of her life. Añurika, her devoted acomplaice, sat close to her, and spent her time telling her both true and untrue stories. The maids did their work as well. They fanned, pedicured, and stood stand by awaiting errands.
When Añurika saw Ngozi and the guard approaching, she smiled.
"Well look who we have here. It's our very good bold and daring friend, remember?"
Erinma turned and smiled as well.
"It would seem so. What an unexpected and 'pleasing' visit''
"My queen, she would like to see you" the guard said before bowing and exiting.
Ngozi walked closer to them and fell on her knees.
"Long live my queen. Please my queen, I would like you to help me. My mother is critically I'll, and I need some money to help her undergo surgery, but I have none. Please help me my queen..."she pleaded and broke down
Erinma and Añurika burst into laughter, after staring at themselves.
"Really? The witty and persistent pest who caused my family a barrage of problems, asks for my assistance now? The same peasant girl who insulted me? Why should I even help you?" .
"Because I know you have a conscience, and I know that if you were in my shoes, you would do the same. I'm not saying I'm worthy of your assistance but please, for the sake of God and everything human, have mercy on me"
The queen looked above for a while.
"Well, I suppose I could help you. On two conditions though"
"Anything"
"First, you must kiss my feet" she commanded.
She raised her brows as the command came. She looked at the queen in shock but she only smiled back. She was serious. Ngozi bowed her head and let a tear drop. Was she really about to do this? She needed to, for Mamas sake.
She crawled to Erinmas, bleached feet and held it up. She brought out her lips and drew closer to kiss it when she suddenly received a kick on her head which made her see stars. She flew back in excruciating pain. Erinma and Añurika laughed again. Some maids chuckled, while those who had conciences frowned at the act.
"God, that was classic. What makes you think your filthy gutter deserves to kiss my feet? Do you also need money for toothpaste?" She laughed again.
"Secondly, you and your family must leave this community and never return. If I ever see your face around, even a bush of Ngalaba kingdom, you will be severely punished, do I make myself clear?"
Ngozi nodded her pounding head slowly.
"That's a good girl. Ada, go get me my purse" she instructed one of the maids and she dashed in. A few moments later, she came back with a golden purse. She gave it to Erinma and she went back to her post.
Erinma dipped her hand into the purse and brought out a Zenith Bank cheque book and a pen. She began to write.
"And to who am I writing this to?"
"Ngozi Okonkwo"
"And how much do you need?"
"Seven million"
She wrote it down, tore up the page and gave it to her. As she did, Añurika tapped her but she ignored.
"That's the complete money. Now get out and remember our agreement"
"Thank you my queen. God bless you"
She said in tears and disbelief before walking out.
When out of ear shot, Añurika frowned at the queen.
"What was that for?"
"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. I want to be sure that she has exited permanently from my life. Besides, I don't want her telling people I'm a bad ruler. Money is nothing, really"
Añurika folded her arms and shook her head.
"Ohhhh, Chi M"

Episode 16
Authors Note: This episode is dedicated to all the depressed people out there who are contemplating or have lost their lives to suicide. It is never an option.
*. *. *. *
Ngozi's struggles in life became worse after her mothers hospitalization. She worked multiple jobs everyday just to make sure she could try and raise the seven million naira that she was told to raise for the surgery, but it seemed her efforts were fruitless. She was only even able to discharge Beatrice from the hospital because of the help rendered by one of her uncle's, if not, she could never have raised the bill. Still, upon all her struggles, things weren't getting better. Mama's drugs kept finishing day by day, and her health didn't seem to brighten up.
Sometimes, Ngozi would just sit back and ponder about life and what it had thrown to her. First, it was her rape, then it was her bitter break up with Uchenna and now it was her mothers illness. Every day she tried to make things better even after strenous effort and suffering but it seemed she was doing nothing. Life remained blank.
Some days she would contemplate suicide. What was the point of even living? Her loved ones were already starting to leave her one by one. She tried to end it all with a kitchen knife or with a rope but fear wouldn't let her do it. She would be so close and yet so far.
Deep within her, some voices would be fighting to get through to her. Some would encourage her to end her life and misery why some would tell her not to give up. 'What was the point of leaving the world when you still have someone willing to love and care for you and needs you terribly? Even if the whole world is against you, God is still by your side. Never ever let your problems trample on you so as not to give the devil a cause to celebrate. One life lost is like a million stars fallen, you have no right to take it. Suicide only makes matters worse and brings about a restless soul. Things would surely get better' it would say but still, she was conflicted.
It was on a Friday that an idea finally struck her. It was like a ray of hope, but then, was it? Would the man who hated her so much agree to help her? She had always known Uchenna to be kind and he wouldn't let someone die, would he? She needed to know and give it a try.
At some point, her pride tried to let her not do it but she swallowed it hard and became determined.
"No, I need to try" she said.
She stood up from her bed and headed for the door.......

Her screams became louder and filled the air. She just stood fixed at a spot screaming loudly. Sometime later, some people rushed to the scene to find out what the problem was thinking it could be Obinna at work again.
"Ngozi, what's the problem?" Asked one of the men who was wearing a blue shirt.
Ngozi kept on screaming and pointed to her mother's body. Some people who beholded the sight let out cries of there own and soon, everywhere was thrown into panic. Some started to leave immediately.
The man on blue shirt knelt and and placed his ear on Beatrice's heart. It was still beating. He heaved a sigh and stood up.
"Don't worry, she's still alive. Stop yelling now"he pleaded and Ngozi, who was a bit relieved covered her mouth. Her face was soaked in sweat and tears.
"Let's take her to the hospital"suggested one of the men and there was agreement. Quickly, three men hoisted the robust woman up and strenuously began to take her away. Ngozi followed like a commanded child, shivering and shedding tears in fear. Some women tried to console her but she just nodded at what she could hear. She was too shocked to respond.
They arrived the front of the compound and fortunately, an empty tricycle (Keke napep) was crossing. They halted the vehicle and the three men with Beatrice's body, accompanied with a petryfied Ngozi boarded it.
"Community hospital"said the man in blue, who was later identified as Ikenga. At the command, the Keke driver began to drive to the community hospital. As he moved, the onlookers and sympathizers shook their heads and gossiped amongst themselves. They eventually began to dispersed to their various businesses.
It was a 23minute drive from Ngozi's house to The Community Hospital, Ngalaba. As they drove, Ngozi continued to pray within her that nothing would happen to her mother, who was the only person she had.
They arrived the hospital gate and hurriedly headed inside, almost forgetting to pay the Keke driver. They arrived the reception room where some Nurses and a few patients were working and waiting respectively.
"Help! Help us oooo"pleaded Ngozi as they walked in. The state of peace in the reception hall was broken as people began to gather around to see the unconscious woman.
"What's the matter?" Asked one of the plain looking nurses.
"Please it's my mother. I came back from church and found her unconscious in the kitchen. Please save her, she's the only one I have"
The nurses looked closely at her and one of them, who was fat shouted in pidgin.
"No be this mama wey de come here steadily?"
The plain looking one nodded "Yes, it would seem so. Please get a stretcher and go and call Dr Chukwuebuka"
The nurses swung into action and in no time, Beatrice was rushed to the emergency unit for treatment.
Ngozi became restless during the rest of their stay at the hospital. She refused to sit down and kept praying and moving around despite the protests of Ikenga and the others.
"Ngozi please sit down. They way you are acting won't solve the problem. You are only creating unnecessary tension. She's not even dead"
"I'm sorry bro Ikenga, I'm just so worried. Please bear with me" Ngozi pleaded.
They stayed in the hospital for some hours and eventually, the men began to disperse slowly. When it was almost sunset, Bro Ikenga decided to leave. He advised Ngozi and promised to visit her again before leaving the poor girl to her fate.
Not too long after Bro Ikenga left, the Dr arrived and met Ngozi who had decided to sit down and rest after to much moving around. She was even dozing. When she saw the doctor, she jumped to her feet and became fully awake.
"Umm"he cleared his throat "please who are you to the patient?"he asked.
"I'm her daughter, please how's my mother?"she said becoming anxious again.
"Calm down, we were able to revive her. She's okay for now, but...."
"But what?"
"I don't know how you'll take this. You see, your mother has a hole in her heart. She suffered from a heart attack, that's why she slumped"
Ngozi's heart skipped a thousand times.
"Hole....heart....how? She.....she never told me"
"Maybe she didn't want you to worry. You see, Mrs Beatrice has been a regular patient for the past three months now. We've been providing her with drugs and medical support but now, she needs to undergo surgery that will cost arround 7 million naira because we will refer her to a specialist hospital in Owerri"
"7 million, where will I get such an amount from?!!!" She asked in utter amazement.
"I'm sorry, that's what it is. Please if there is nothing else, I'll take my leave now. Excuse me" the doctor said and walked away.
Ngozi just stared at him in shock and in hopelessness.

She ran quickly and outran the stunned guard. She finally arrived the canopy where Uche and his guest we're located. They both stood up in shock at the way she ran in. Soon, the guard arrived.
"My prince, I'm deeply sorry for this. She stunned me"she grabbed Ngozi and tried to drag her out but she tried to fight the strong hold.
"What are you doing here?"he asked
"Uche please listen to me. What you saw last time wasn't what it seemed. It was the guy that lured me there and raped me, it was all a set up!"
"And you expect me to believe you? Common Ngozi, enough of your lies. Even the guy confirmed your affair"
"Uche, please, my hands are clean. You Know how much I love......"
"Save it you filthy liar, I will never believe you again. And do you know what? You are nothing but a disgusting, lying and blood sucking LovePeddler! All you do is use and dump others. I was warned about you but I loved you so much and you decided to pay me like this. Thank God I caught you before you killed me. You can't trick me again. Now, get out of my house and go back to that God forsaken life of yours. I can never end up with a filthy daughter of a drunkard, get it?"
"Monster"she muttered under her breath.
"Get out'' he said slowly.
She starred at him in disbelief and shook her head. She became limp and the guard began to take her away, slowly. Nnenna just sat there chuckling.
"And I never want to see you here again!"he warned before she was out of sight. When she was gone, he spat before walking back into the palace, fuming mad.
Ngozi walked home slowly, dejected and hopeless. She should have never gone to see the prince to avoid the hurl of insults she got that afternoon. She concluded that she would never forgive him for what he told her today. She hated him so much.
She finally arrived home and walked closer to her house when she perceived the smell of burnt food coming from the kitchen. That was strange. Beatrice couldn't attend service today because she complained of back pain and decided to stay home. She must have decided to cook that days meal. How could she leave it burnt so badly?
Ngozi hurriedly walked to the backyard where the local kitchen was, smoke become thicker and the smell becoming stronger. She began calling out to her but there was no response. She became scared.
She finally arrived the kitchen and walked into it. The now blackened pot was still on fire.
"Mama, you left this food to burn oooo" she called but there was still quiet. Maybe she was sleeping. She bent down and used a torn rag to bring the pot down. She turned to get water to switch of the light when she suddenly froze. She raised her brows and her heart beat became louder. She then let out a piercing scream.












There her mother was, lying lifeless at one corner of the kitchen with a spoon in her hand......

Episode 16
The days that followed we're filled with misery and anguish for Ngozi but she tried to hide it. She couldn't bear the thought of telling her mother how she had lost her most precious jewel due to her stupidity and naïveness. Would her mother even believe her? She had decided to keep her distress a secret from her mother but Beatrice wasn't stupid. She had noticed Ngozi's cold and down spirit and also noticed her miserable face. On one occasion, she decided to eavesdrop on her to see if she could get anything. Fortunately, she had heard her crying that night. Since then, she desperately tried to reach out to her daughter but Ngozi remained adamant. Beatrice pestered but Everytime, Ngozi would shrug her of. So, she decided to give up. All she could do was pray and advise her.
"Never let your problems weigh you down. This life never favours the weak" she would say.
It was a warm Sunday afternoon. Church goers had been returning from service and there were not to many activities going. Ngozi had also been returning from the St Patrick's Catholic Church located in the village square and had been a bit cheered up by the priests sermon on "Bearing The Cross'. She felt like she was being talked to directly and she decided to dwell on the message which encouraged her. She was going to the palace today and she was going to explain herself and clear her name to the prince. She was going to try and amend the relationship even if it wasn't going to be easy. She had made up her mind.
She walked to the palace briskly but nervously. It wasn't too far from the church. Finally, she arrived in front of the large gate. She adjusted her dress and her headscarf before heaving a sigh. She then held her breath and knocked on the gate before doing the sign of the cross. Few seconds later, the gate opened and a tall, drunk looking gate guard opened the small gate.
"Yes, how may I help you?" He asked in a coarse voice.
"Um, I'm looking for the prince"
"Who are you to him?"
"I'm a very close friend"
"What's your name?"
"Ngozi"
He paused for a while
"Wait here, let me go and ask him"
She nodded and he walked in.
Meanwhile, Prince Uchenna had already gotten acquainted with princess Nnenna. She was a pretty lady. Tall, chocolate complexioned and very curvy, but very lousy as well. She had been talking like a running tap since she and the prince were under the royal canopy in the gardens. Uche just had his head, rested on his hand and nodded to all false and true words she told him. He didn't have a choice anyways.
"So, like I tells you earlier, I think Beyonce sings the best songs. She's my favorite. What of you?" She didn't even notice the grammatical error she made due to the rate of speed she was talking.
That was actually the first time he had been asked to talk. He opened his mouth when the guard walked in.
"My prince, a young lady named Ngozi wants to see you. She says that.........."
The name peirced through his ear.
"Don't you dare let her in. Send her away now!!!!!!"
"Yes my prince"the guard said nervously. He dashed to lock the gate and Chase away the unwanted guest.
She walked roundaby anxiously waiting for the guards return. He finally arrived.
"I'm sorry you are not wanted. Please leave"
She didn't let him act further, she quickly kicked him on the mid region which made him feel temporarily paralyzed. She quickly dashed into the palace compound........


.

This is nice

As they walked, Uchennas fear kept rising. He wished that Ude was wrong and that Ngozi was still faithful. He wished that nothing would happen.
Finally, they arrived the open bush area where both suspects where. Uche saw the man laying on the open legged woman, sleeping probably after an hour of action. His pulse went higher. Ude jumped to the both of them and kicked the lying beast hard which immediately woke him up. Alas, the lady was none other than his love, Ngozi.
"See my prince, I told you. Filthy scumbags!"
Uche just starred mouth agape, with cold feet. He couldn't believe his eyes. Ngozi eventually woke up after perceiving commotion. She sat up and looked around her. Emeka, Udenna, the prince. Then it all came to her. She realized the mess she was into now. She couldn't believe what was happening.
"U...Uche?"
He shook his head slowly and said.
"So this is what you've been doing behind my back, right? You come in front of me, pretending that you're some saint but you've been secretly slutting around, right?"
"Uchenna, please I can explain, it's not what you think" she pleaded as she got up and walked towards him.
"My prince, please do not insult her that way. She is my girlfriend. Both of us really love each other and......" Emeka chirped in.
"EMEKA!!!" Ngozi cried in panic.
"Oh, I can see that. Well I'm really sorry for interrupting your intimate moment. But wouldn't it have been better if you had done this in a room? Your bleeping up my fathers kingdom, so get a life and be descent"
"Uchenna, please....." She tried to touch him but he pushed her back
"Get your bleeping hands of me you LovePeddler! I don't know you anymore. You guys can continue from where you stopped if you like, but I don't want to catch you here again if you still want to live. Idiots. Ude, lets leave this place before I do something unpleasant" he stormed to his car as he desperately tried to hold back his tears. Ngozi ran after him while calling his name. Ude then turned to Emeka and smiled.
"Well done my friend, the queen will be pleased at this news"
"No problem. I needed to do that anyways. So, when do I get my money?"
"I'll send a guard to your house later, so you better be around. I need to go now"he said before he dashed into the car. Ngozi was hitting the back seat tinted window where Uche sat as she tried to talk to him. Uche didn't even turn despite the noise she was making. He just sat still with tears rolling down his eyes. Eventually, the car engine came to life and zoomed like lightening leaving the distressed maiden rolling on the floor. She watched her world crash like that as the car disappeared into the dust. What was going on that day? Her best friend betrayed and raped her, she lost her virginity, and the love of her life accused her of having an affair! Was the whole world fighting against her? Was it all a bad dream she would soon wake up from? No, it couldn't, the dust on her face proved it. She lay down on the floor wishing the ground would open up. What would her mother say? Wouldn't it have been better if a car crushed her to death instead?
A curious male passerby saw the grief stricken damsel on the floor and approached her. He observed her for a while and asked.
"Madam, are you okay?"
She lay down mute for sometime. Finally, she concluded that she would get up and face her woes head on. She stood up slowly and dusted herself. Fortunately for her, her skirt was black so it covered up her bleed stain.
"Yes, I'm fine, thank you"
"Are you sure, do you need help?"
She didn't respond. She just turned and walked away.......

Episode 15
They walked deeper and deeper into the bushes. As they did, he held her tightly while she just followed with annoyance boiling in her. Blades of grass occasionally scratched her accompanied with the bites of tiny mosquitoes. Eventually, she got pissed of and halted him. He turned with confusion.
"What's the matter?" Emeka asked.
"Emy, we've been walking through this bush for sometime now and I'm starting to get annoyed. Tell me what this surprise is all about already and stop keeping me in suspense. I have things to do" Ngozi complained.
"Ngo, clam down now, stop being in such a hurry. I promise that we are almost there, okay"
She frowned deeply and mumbled under her breath.
"What's the matter, don't you trust me?"
"It's not it. Its just that I'm feeling a little akward. You know very well that it isn't very proper for the both of us to, you know, be in a place like this, alone."
He smiled and turned to her. He held both of her hands.
"Ngozika, we've been friends for as long as I can remember. Ever since we have been together, I've never done anything to harm or hurt you, have I?"he asked with an innocent face and voice.
She shook her head.
"Then there's nothing to worry about. I see you as a sister and I can't do anything to hurt you, okay?" He assured her.
She sighed and nodded. He was her best friend after all, what could happen? Moreover, Emeka was a man of good repute. He wasn't known for womanizing or hurting women. She wouldn't be an exception.
They walked a little distance further when they arrived an open, less grassy, empty space. They stopped and he turned to her.
"So" she said "where's the surprise?"
He smirked, dug his hand in his pocket and replied in a cold, deep voice.
"Surprise"
Quickly he brought the hand out and blew a witish powder on her unsuspecting face. She stumbled backwards in disbelief and shock with closed eyes.
"Emeka what... Did....you...doooo......." She felt dizzy and her vision became blurry. Her head pounded and soon, she saw her self on the ground.
Then all went black......
Emeka squatted and touched her head. He smiled and nodded in approval. Out cold. Finally, he was going to have his much desired prize. He had secretly harboured romantic feelings for her but never told her for fear of rejection. When she told him of her relationship with Uchenna, he became distraught and bitter but still surpressed his feelings. Now, he had her at his power and his rewards hadn't ended yet.
He knelt, opened her legs and unzipped his shorts to bring out his now ready partner in crime....
*****
The black Lexus Jeep parked in front and of the bush path and purred to a halt. The front doors flung open and Ude and Uchenna stepped out of the car. Uchenna walked to Ude with a worried look on his face.
"Udenna, are you sure about what you heard?"
"100 percent. I crossing this area after carrying out the errand your mother sent me to when I saw Ngozi walking in the bush with another man holding her hand! I saw them with my 2 krokro eyes"
Uchennas heart skipped a thousand times. He became nervous and prayed that it wasn't what he was thinking. She wouldn't do it, would she?
"Well, let's go. There's no point to wasting time here"
He nodded and the both of them walked into the bush path......

Episode 14
George had his eyes glued to the file and other sheets of paper that lay in front of him. He was sweating profusely as he struggled to go through every detail of the company's financial report that was brought to him earlier, despite the fact that the AC was on. He was about to pen something down in a small notebook by his side when there was a knock on the door.
"Yes,come in"he said still writing down.
The door flung open and a woman walked in.
"Joan,I thought I told you to cancel all my appoint......"
"George!"she said interrupting him. It was none other than Alexis.
George's face melted at the sight of her. She was also in her most sexy and tempting mode. She was a short, transparent beach gown and a straw hat on top. She looked like a sixteen years old goddess with her perfect make-up.
"Alexis? What on Earth are you doing here?
"Won't you tell me to seat down first? Is that how you welcome your guests?"
"How did you get in here, I specifically told Joan not to let anyone in"
"You mean your secretary? Oh,I have my ways"she responded helping herself with a seat.
"So,how's it going?"
"What do you want Alexis? Please make it snappy"
"Why all the acidity? Am I not welcome to my boyfriend's office again"
"No, you are not. And please don't refer to me as your boyfriend, that period is over okay?"
"Relax,I was just joking,yeesh. Anyways, I just came to check up on you and ask why you haven't called lately"
"Because I don't want any trouble. I got in a lot of trouble with my wife and daughter because of you,and I don't want a broken family. Please leave me alone, Alexis. You and I ended our relationship many years ago and you know you can't bring back the old times. I'm happily married now, with a daughter, and I love my family, okay. Please leave"
Alexis gave a dirty smile and stood up. She cat walked to his seat and sat in front of him. She drew her face closer to his. At this point, George began to sweat.
"I don't think so dearie. I know you more than you know yourself. You and I both know that if given the chance, you would crawl back to me begging, am I correct?"
She asked in her minty, fresh breath. George felt like grabbing that pretty face in front of him and kissing it to death. As if she read his mind, she drew closer for a kiss. George was tempted to kiss back but he wouldn't. He had vowed to be loyal to his wife, and he was keeping that promise even if it was the devil in front of him. He quickly drew back a little and brought his handkerchief in front of him,which quickly 'stole' the kiss. Alexis realized that she kissed a foreign object and quickly opened her eyes. She realized she had kissed a handkerchief and quickly cleaned her mouth, spitting as well.
" Holy Shit!George, what was that for?"
"I thought the handkey deserved the kiss better. I'm happy with my life Alexis and I DON'T NEED YOU anymore. Go find someone else who deserves you more, cus I'm already taken. That's the door" he concluded pointing to the wooden door. Alexis quickly jumped to her feet, grabbed her bag and stormed out of the office, cursing under her breath.
George bowed his head and cupped his hand.
"Yes,thank you Lord"





.

They had gone some distance from Ngozi's house and Erinma was fuming mad after the embarrassment. There was silence between in the car for sometime when Añurika decided to break it.
"I must admit,that girl has a lot of guts. But I think she got the message. You might not have to worry about her and your son again"
Erinma sighed.
"I doubt that my warning was enough. Uchenna might just believe anything she tells him. No,I'll need to take things a little further and destroy her permanently"
Añurika sat up in interest.
"So, what do you plan to do?"
She turned to her.
"I, have a plan....."












She gave a devious smirk.

Ngozi's heart sank deeper into her belly when she saw the queen. She shook visibly but Erinma just gave a warm smile and walked closer to her together with Añurika,her Chief maiden and close friend. Ngozi went on her knees and greeted the royal figure.
"Good afternoon my queen. You are welcome"
"Rise"Erinma commanded and Ngozi stood up. She was enjoying the fear.
"I'm guessing you are the one they call, Ngozi. Am I correct?"
"Yes my queen. Is there a problem. Let me get you a sea...."
"Ah, don't worry. I'm in a hurry anyways. You see,I am well aware of your romantic relationship with my son. Are you not his girlfriend, don't deny it"
Ngozi nodded her head slowly
"Good. I came to tell you that I,my Lord and the entire members of the royal family do not approve of it. Ever since you came into his life,you've brought nothing but bad luck and negative change, which I do not like. You are a bad influence on him. Moreover" she paused and looked around the compound.
"I don't think you fit into the standards of my son,if you know what I mean?"
Ngozi suddenly became angry and frowned deeply as she knew what the queen meant.
"What are you implying? That I'm poor and I can't be with your son,is that it? Do you think that he choose to be together with me because of money? Well you are mistaken my queen, because Uche loves me for who I am"
"Very bold and fluent to,I can see you went to school. But it isn't just about the money. I know your family background. Your father is a well known drunk and trouble maker in this village. Do you think I would like such as an in-law? Over my dead body! My son deserves better than that"shr paused for a while and then smiled.
"Besides, Uchenna doesn't love you. He is already engaged to a woman who is ten times better than you,and who he deserves. Uche loves her dearly and is only using you"
"You're a liar!"
Añurika and her burst into a round of laughter.
"Imagine her, that I'm lying"she then turned back to her and held her chin "don't feel bad,truth is bitter you know. You are a very beautiful woman,I must confess but you are not worthy enough for my son, alright. Go find someone who suits you,hmm?"
Ngozi tried desperately to hold back the tears that struggled to flow. Just when she was about to give up,she looked her straight in the eyes and exploded.
"Is it not a shame that you came all the way from the comfort of your palace just to engage with someone who is nothing to you? What kind of mother are you anyways,why must you decide whom your son must fall in love with just for selfish reasons. I don't know the games you're playing but if you ask me,I think you need to have a rethink about your life. If there is nothing else you would like to tell me,you and your friends can leave. As you can see,I am busy. Thank you" she said and resumed her sweeping. Erinma just stared at her with fiery eyes while Añurika jaw dropped. She was shocked.
"Let us leave Añurika, the stench of this place wants to make me puke!!"
The two women walked away and the royal visitors soon left. When they were gone, Ngozi broke down in tears.

Episode 13
Ngozi breathed heavily as she continued to sweep the front of her compound hastily. That was just the first of her chores and she still had a heap of clothes waiting for her at the backyard. She wished her chores would finish fast so that she could attend to other things before the day ran out.
Just when she was about concluding the sweeping, a black Hummer Jeep with an Entourage of three other cars behind it came into her open compound and parked. Immediately, Ngozi's heart sank. What was such a powerful Entourage visiting her for? It couldn't be the prince as he seldom visited and even if he did,not with such an Entourage. Or,was it her father's trouble again?
The front door flung open and one of the royal chaffeurrs stepped down and hurriedly opened the back seat. She then began to step down, gradually and gracefully until Ngozi was able to see the full figure of none other than, QUEEN ERINMA......

The next day seemed brighter than the previous. Susan had decided to take a break after all the drama and was in the comfort of the sitting room that morning. She was watching an early morning TV show with a chilled glass of orange juice by her side. She had taken another sip when Rose suddenly came down stairs with her Violet traveling bag. She wheeled it to where her mother was and grinned.
"Well mum,are you ready to go?"
Susan dropped the glass looking confused.
"Go where?"
"Don't you remember, leave this house of course. Have you forgotten about dad already,or don't tell me you've forgiven him already"
Susan opened her mouth to talk when she was cut of by George who was coming downstairs.
"I'm sorry Rose but she isn't going anywhere I'm afraid. We've talked things out,you see and where alright now. Isn't that right honey?"
Rose raised her eyes at her.
"It's true dear, your father and I are alright now"Susan responded.
"Mum,you're kidding right?how can you be so weak to let go of that. Don't you think he doesn't deserve your forgiveness?"
"Rose,that's enough. Look,I'm sorry if you have any negative thoughts about me and Alexis. But the truth is,there's nothing going on between us. She's just an old friend who came back and wanted to catch up with me. There's no cheating or anything like that, okay?"
"And you expect me to believe you?"
He sighed.
"Oh well,I guess I have to do this"he paused "if it is that I'm lying ehhh,let thunder from above strike me dea......"
"STOP!!!!"both women shouted.
"You don't have to swear dad"Rose said concerndly.
"I will have to unless you believe me.
She kept silent for a while.
"Fine,I'll think about it"she then picked up her bag and went back up.
George shrugged his shoulders.
"Hm,I guess it will take some time to convince her. I'll have to talk to her until she let's go"he looked at his watch. Susan simply nodded.
"I'm late. I need to get going now"he bent down and pecked her.
"Bye honey"he said as he walked out.
"Bye bye"she responded as he shut the door. She soon wondered if she had done the right thing by forgiving him. What if he was lying,or Alexis had already caught him in a web? She couldn't decide for now. All she could do was wait and see.
"Let's see how you can win over him again"
She sipped from the glass again.

I would like to give a shout out to my devoted fans especially Purplephoenix. Thanks for being so sweet. I know my story might seem emotional and dull,but I have faith that it will come out one of the best. Please keep on supporting and encouraging me. Criticism is also welcome. I've planned the story out and as for the issue of inconsistency,,I will resolve it. You guys wouldn't regret devoting your time to patiently go through it even though it isn't action packed (for now).
I love you and God bless you. See you guys tomorrow.





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Episode 12
He arrived home late in the night, feeling weak. He had drunk himself to stupor and struggled not to trip as he walked to the door. The worst part was that he was still depressed and confused about the incident that happened earlier. He wondered how the devil had made Rose to see him and Alexis together even though he knew the consequences. He felt disgraced and hopeless. He knew that Rose had told Susan already and he was in hot soup. He just wished that all these problems would disappear.
He knocked slowly on the door as nervousness took over him. For a moment,he forgot that he was drunk. Iniobong peeped through the door hole and then opened it quickly.
"George!where have you been?it's almost midnight!!"she cried
"Hey Ini"he greeted his mother figure slowly and staggered in "uhh,is Susan home?"
She covered her nose at the stench that oozed from his breath.
''Yes,she is at home. But why did you drink so much"
He waved his hand at her.
"I'll see you later Ini, I have issues to handle" he responded as he walked the stairs. Ini watched him with a worried look on her face. Earlier,it was a mournful Susan, now a drunk George and nobody wanted to tell her what was wrong. She hoped they were okay.
He arrived the room, opened his door and saw his wife lying peacefully on the bed. She wasn't sleeping though,she heard him coming up earlier. And besides,her eyes were to swollen from tears to sleep.
He lay down beside her and brushed his hand on her soft,fair skin. Even at 49,she was still desirable and sexy, just like 20 years ago. It had been a while since they made love and he felt aroused. He kissed her hand slowly and made to lick her ear when she muttered something.
"Don't. Touch. Me."
He was drawn aback.
"What"
She got up and pushed him with the stregnth that remained in her.
"I said DON'T TOUCH ME!!!! you good for nothing snake. How could you George?"
"Honey,I can explain..."
"I don't wanna hear it"she paused to catch her breath.
"Of all the women you could break me with,why did it have to be Alexis? Couldn't you have done it with someone who wasn't your former mistress, or someone who you knew I had much contempt for? Do you hate me that much, George?"
"Please, Sue,I'm not cheating on you. Alexis just came back from London and we became friends again. That wasn't to long ago. We haven't done anything. It's you I love"
"No,I will never believe you again. I'd you really loved me you would have never agreed to become friends with someone who you had so much desire for,then and till now. This was the same woman who almost ruined the our family. But you know what, I think I've had enough. Since you love her so much and want to be with her,let me indulge you. I'm filling for a div......"
He shot at her and covered her mouth.
"No, don't say that. You are the one I really love, the one who owns my heart. So even if Alexis is back,it doesn't mean anything, because she's my commit. I have no feelings for her anymore" he went on his knees and held her two hands.
"Give me one last chance Sue,I promise I won't fail you again. Please don't leave me, please...."he let the tears flow. For a moment,she kept, the both of them kept crying like babies until she raised him up.
"Alright,I forgive you. But I want you to end everything you have with Alexis, even mere friendship. At least do it for our family"
"Alright,I'll do that. Thanks so much, hon"
He hugged her tightly but she didn't hug back. She was still hurt.
Rose crumpled her face in anger as she removed her ear from her parents door. She couldn't believe that mum actually forgave him. So fast? She thought she would have at least separated from him for a while, just to teach him a lesson. She spat on the floor and stormed back to her room.

She quickly boarded another taxi and headed straight for Susan's office. As the car drove along,she shed tears as she want through the pictures she had taken of the two. She wished it were all a dream but it wasn't. Dad was cheating and she caught him red handed. She wondered how Susan would take it.
They finally arrived the Sunfield Oil and gas main office, founded by Susan's father. When he died,she and George inherited it since she was the only daughter and she became the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, directly after George. She loved him that much.
Rose got down from the taxi,paid the fare and dragged herself to Susan's office. She felt weak and helpless. She got to the reception area and met up with the stern looking,fat receptionist. The lady,was typing on the computer with rapid attention when she was interrupted. She frowned and looked up thinking it was her former gossip mate.
"What?!!"she raised her brows in realization and forced a smile "oh,miss Rose. Um..,I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell at you. How may I help you?"
"Is my mom around?"she asked less concerned.
"Yes"
"Please tell her that I need to see her. It's urgent."
The lady quickly obeyed and put a call through Susan. After a short conversation,she dropped the phone.
"She would like to see you now"
Rose turned quickly and headed for the elevator. She entered it and it took her to the first floor where Susan's office was. When she arrived,the door opened and she quickly headed for the office trying to hold back her tears. Even the secretary greeted her but there was no answer. She pushed the door open which forced Susan to jump up in shock.
"Rose?...."
Without letting her finish,Rose threw a warm embrace at her. She held tightly, letting all the tears flow. After sometime,she became consoled.
"Rose, what happened?why all the drama?"
"I'm sorry mum"she said as she cleaned her eyes "I just got lost for sometime"
"What's going on?"
"Remember when I asked you about Alexis, dad's ex girlfriend?"
Susan's heart skipped at the mention of the name.
"Yes,I do"
"Well my suspicions were right. I caught the both of them red handed today"
"What?" She as slowly.
"It's true. I overheard the both of them planning to meet up at Hotel Da Ville later this morning. I decided to follow them and I saw them, having the time of their lives at the restaurant!"
"No...no,that isn't true"she said almost in tears.
"You can see the pictures" Rose said as she showed the pictures of them to her mother. When Susan saw the last,she walked back and bumped on the wall
"No,it can't be. Alexis can't be back. She can't be back to ruin my life. Please tell me it isn't..tr..true" she broke down.
"Dad's been lying mum. He's been deceiving us. Now it's time for us to fight back!I'm so sorry mum"
Both interlocked each other and drowned themselves in tears......

''heyyy sweetie,how's it going?"he asked as he stood up and pecked her. He got a plaintive look in response
"Umm"he scratched the back of his head and swallowed hard "I'd like you to meet my old friend, Alexis. Alexis,my daughter,Rose.
"Really,she's so pretty. Pleasure to meet you"she grinned and shot out her hand for a handshake.
Rose turned away from her and starred at the confused man by her side.
"Seriously dad,your EX? How. How could you think of doing this to your family? To mum? Isn't she enough for you?"
"Rose,I can explain. It's not what you thi...."
"Oh save it,I've heard that line a thousand times before. The explanation is already written on both of your sorry faces. Don't bother denying it because I have pictures. As for you"she turned to Rose "you have already marked your self as a shameless,old HAG!"
"ROSE!!"
"Yes,do I know you?"she raised her phone up and took another shot of both of them with melted faces
"I'm gonna post this on social media. Imagine, the great George Okoye, caught with his ex mistress. Isn't that sweet? Good luck!!" She eyed Alexis,hissed and stormed out. George just starred at her with cold feet....

Episode 11
Rose watched closely from her window in her upstairs room as she saw her father get into his posh Grey Lexus car and zoom out of the compound. That was the moment she had been waiting for. She quickly dashed towards her bed,picked up her violet hand bag,took a quick glance at the mirror before leaving the room. She hurried downstairs so as not to have much distance between her and her father.
She got in front of the gate and waited patiently for a cab as she didn't want to use a private car so that her target wouldn't escape. Luckily,a yellow taxi was passing by and she boarded it. She had remembered the address she has heard last night and told the driver.
"Take me to the 'Costa La Villa' hotel"
"Ah madam, that place dey far oooooo"said the hungry looking driver.
"I'll double your pay, just move!'
The driver quickly stepped on his breaks and zoomed of.
It was a 39km drive from the estate to the hotel. Rose anxiously prayed that she would catch him red handed and at the same time,meet the Woman who had decided to break her family apart. She has overhead the both of them planning to meet up at the hotel the previous night on phone by 11 in the morning, and had decided to confront them the next day.
After the long drive,the car finally arrived it's destination. She jumped down from the car,paid the fare and walked up to the building. She peeped through the glass door and saw the culprit with his cohord gisting and dining away at the center of the restaurant. They looked so much like lovers and it disgusted her. How could her father act that way with another woman?his EX for that matter. No,It was unacceptable
She thought of storming in and slapping the LovePeddler to death. But she changed her mind and decided to walk in dramatically so as to have a good look at their surprised faces. She first of all,took out her iPhone and snapped a few pictures of them before dropping it and adjusting her dress. She then exhaled and pushed the door.
"Honestly George,you really need a vacation for yourself. Perhaps you could go to Hawaii or Fiji. These are nice places. You work way to much" said Alexis as she took another spoon of the delicious fried rice and chicken that was before her.
"I'll think about it Alexis. You keep pestering me about it anyways"he replied with a smile.
"And one more thing dear,you need to change your body lotion. It's darkening your skin tone to much. Try something that will lighten it up a little. But don't bleach ooo"
Both of them laughed before they heard the cold question from behind them
"And since when did YOU become his personal dermatologist?"
His smile dropped immediately and he slowly turned back. It was none other than his ' ever surprising' daughter towering in front of him.
"Oh poo."
She raised a brow at him.

"Mother!! Mother!!!" He kept telling as he ran down stairs in panic. His heart had sank and he was sweating from head to toe.
"What is it?"she responded as she stood up.
"Mother,there is a naked witch,in my room. I have no idea how she got there" he explained panting heavily.
"Your words, Uchenna. That is Princess Nnenna of Uzochi,the neighbouring community. I invited her here to entertain you after your tedious trip" she told him smiling.
He felt numb and betrayed. He suddenly stopped panicking.
"What?"
"Surprise, aren't you happy?"
"For WHAT? Did you seek my consent before doing something as gross as this?"
"Heyyyy,I can't believe I'm getting this response from you. Do you realize what you are saying? No reasonable man would never turn such a woman down. It's an honor"
"Well I'm not 'reasonable' okay? At least have the decency to respect my privacy. How could you invite such a...a...a lady to my room?"
"Don't you dare scold me. Would you rather invite the daughter of a drunkard to your room?"
He stared at her in shock and awe.
"What?you think I wouldn't find out. I know that you have been wasting your time with a useless peasant"
"Don't you judge her mom. Ngozi might be poor but she still has more dignity.......even more than you"
"How DARE you?"
"Look mum,get that bleeping thing out of my hoy,okay? I'm not INTERESTED in her"
"Well that's not my problem, because she's the one you will marry, period."
"Okay,come and force me to marry. Non.... anyways" he hissed stormed away "And she'd better not be in that room by the time I come back,or hell will be let loose" he shut the door "if I come back...."
"Uchenna! Uchenna you are walking out on me? No problem. Come and bring anything for a wife into this house. Nonsense" she breathed heavily.
"Anyways,it's not your fault. Evil communication corrupts good manners. That girl will PAY"
At that moment,A dressed Nnenna began to walk down.

Episode 10
Uchenna exhaled a sigh of relief as he opened the door of the palace sitting room. He had just returned from a three day business summit in Abuja because he represented his ailing father. The trip was exhausting and he had planned to have a long rest.
Erinma was watching a program on the television. When she saw her son,a smile drew across her face.
"Welcome son"
He walked over to her and pecked her on her cheek.
"Hey mum"
"So,how was your trip?"
"It was fine,I guess,and very successful. But it was tiring as well"
"Then if that's the case,you go have your rest and freshen up.Your food will be ready soon"
"Alright, thanks mum"
He walked away from her and walked upstairs to his room. As he did, Erinma had a very mischievous smile on her face.
He arrived the foot of his door, sighed in excitement and opened it, only for him to see the shock of his life. There was a stark naked beautiful woman,sitting on his bed with a dirty smile on her face. She winked at him and greeted him.
"Hello my prince, you're welcome...."
He let out a piercing scream....

Susan became dumbfounded. Could it be that her worst enemy had returned? Recently,she had noticed that George had been coming home later than usual. He had also been more happy and was very conservative with his phone. She hadn't suspected any sign of infidelity at first but with Roses sudden confrontation,she had second thoughts.
Susan suddenly remembered how she and George got together. Back in the University of Jos,both of them were in the same department of Business administration. He was the courses head student. He was very handsome at that time. Tall, muscular and dark with eyes to die for and very intelligent too. He was perfect for her even though his parents weren't rich. However,he was a boyfriend to the most beautiful and popular girl in school at that time, Alexis. She was a billonaires daughter and no one could match her. Susan gave up all hope on being together with her prince Charming until she heard that the two of them had a sour break-up. She didn't waste time and took advantage of that opportunity. She got close to him and did all she could for him. George tried to turn her down until she revealed that she was the daughter of Mr Richmond Onwuzulike, the richest oil tycoon at that time. Desperately wanting to get out of poverty,he finally succumbed to Susan's advances after graduation and married her, even though he never really loved her.
Five years after their marriage, Susan discovered he was still close with Alexis and had sensed both of them were playing cheating games. To make matters worse,they still had no child. This put their marriage under fire until the birth of the twins and Alexis' departure to London. Still yet Susan felt that George hadn't let go of Alexis but pretended so that her dear marriage wouldn't crash.
She came back to the present. As all these thoughts filled her mind,she cupped her hands and whispered.
"Please,let her not come back....."

She remained frozen as the name pierced through like an arrow. Rose,who had been frightened by her mother's sudden action broke the silence.
"Mum,what is wrong with you?"
Susan got back to her senses.
"Nothing....I'm very sorry. Why do you ask?"she said nervously.
"I've heard the name before and I just got curious".
She bent down and picked up the large pieces that scattered around the floor.
"She's your father's ex girlfriend. They used to be together back in the University until something happened along the line and they broke up. They still remained friends and kept contact though,even after we got married. It was when you were born that she moved abroad with a Spanish man,so I heard" she dropped the glasses on the stool. "But I still don't understand why you are interested in her. That was a very long time ago"
"O nothing,I'm just being a curious daughter" she stood up and headed for the door before stopping and turning to her.
"But what if she suddenly comes back into dad's life. Could it mean anything?"
Susan kept mute and starred at her,dazed by the question. After a while,she responded.
"That,can never happen. Even if it does,George already belongs to me. Nothing can seperate us, especially not a past ghost"
Rose smiled at her mother's ignorance and said.
"Don't be so sure about that"
She walked out.

Episode 9
Rose exhaled slightly as she walked in front of the door. She knocked on it 3 times and waited for a response.
"Come in" said Susan's voice from inside.
She opened it and then immediately squeezed her face in disgust at the stench that greeted her. It stank of strong alcohol and tobacco and the source was none other than the bottle of whiskey and and the packet of cigarettes which was scattered on a stool in front of her mother. She held her nose and asked.
"Mum,what's going on here?"
Susan smiled and brought down the glass on her face.
"As you can see,I'm having fun. Why not come join me?"
"I'm sorry,I'm not interested. I want to ask you something."
"Okay,come sit down"
She walked to the extra large, rainbow coloured bed and sat on it.
"Mom,who is Alexis?"












Susan dropped the glass and it shattered.....

He heaved a sigh of relief as he closed the door.
"Okay,you can come out now"
Ukamaka slowly crawled out of her hiding place and then stood erect. She exhaled slowly.
"That was close"
He nodded his head in agreement
"Yes,it was. The queen is asking for me. We'll continue later. Come over in the night"
She nodded and then headed outside. She opened the door,looked left and right before tip-toeing out. Ude then changed into his royal blue and orange clothes before heading for the garden.
The royal garden was a large expanse of land,decorated with beautiful flowers and plants,both from home and abroad. It was located by the side of the extra large palace. It was always cool and a well known relaxation spot of the royal family.
Queen Erinma sat gracefully in the middle of the garden with a few maids surrounding her. Some were fanning her while two of them were painting her finger and toe nails respectively. One of them was dressing her hair. She closed her eyes and smiled in enjoyment.
Udenna soon arrived where she was. He bowed than and greeted her.
"My queen,you called for me?" he said
"Yes Udenna,rise and sit" she responded while pointing to the green plastic chair that was opposite her. She snapped her finger and the maids dispersed. She sat up and faced him.
"You must be wondering why I called you here. I'm made to understand that you are very good friends with my son,am I correct?"
"Well...y..yes my queen"he replied nervously.
She smiled "don't be afraid,I'm not angry"
He became relieved.
"You see,these past few days,I've noticed that,ever since Uche returned from youth service,he's been continuously in and out and I'm starting to get worried."
"It's nothing to worry about,my queen"
"I'm just thinking. Could there be someone special in his life who,you know,has changed him like this? He's always happy,he now spends a lot and then there's his going out frequently. Could it be that someone is behind all this, perhaps,a woman?"
Ude kept silence for a while as his heart continued pounding within him.
"I'm afraid I'm not in a position to tell you that. He made me promise never to talk"
Erinma smiled at her employees hypocrisy.
"Anurika! Anurika!!"
Soon,a short, skinny, chocolate complexioned and middle aged woman who was dressed in a royal blue and orange gown came out of the palace. She was plain looking and looked deadly.
"Yes my queen?"she responded while prostrating.
"Bring out the package"
Anurika dashed into the palace and a few seconds later,came out with a fat envelope. She placed it on Ude's lap as ordered before moving behind the queen, awaiting more orders. Ude opened the envelope and gasped on shock.
"My queen, what is this?''
"A little something for your betrayal. You shall receive other benefits,if,you co-operate"
Ude smiled. Yes,Uche was his best friend,who had greatly assisted in bringing him out of poverty,but he had never been this generous. And besides,he hated Ngozi because she was drawing Uchennas attention more than him and Uche was showering her with everything she needed and sometimes,refused to grant some of his own demands. He was a love sick puppy,who,he felt,was being used by Ngozi. That needed to stop. Uchenna deserved more than a daughter of a drunkard. He decided to succumb to the temptation.
"What do you need to know?"he asked after thought.
"Everything..."