EPISODE 18

‘’I must say we make an amazing team in the courtroom.’’ Jamie Green greeted Josh with a shy smile that looked sexy and enticing at the same time. Josh knew the kind of invites that smile sent and as usual, he’d have encouraged it but presently he just wasn’t in the mood.

Four months had gone and he hadn’t been in the mood for sex with any woman ever since Scarlett left.

Something was most definitely happening to him and He knew it had little to do with Scarlett Ruby but much more to do with what she had told him the about two and a half months ago.

“I wronged you, I wronged Gavin, I wronged myself and I wronged God…, I was having sex with you. I would have gone to Hell. We would have both gone to hell.

It’s about having a personal relationship with God..

You need to find God…

I let my feelings get in the way…, I worked my way into your bed instead.’’

“Josh?’’

He stared blankly into the brown eyes of the young olive skinned woman that stood before him just outside the courtroom and suddenly realized she was already close to him so that his eyes could settle on her cleavage that revealed a perfect set of breasts and white bra beneath that did a good job of pushing it upwards. The chain she wore dangled just between her boobs and he wondered if she had pulled off a button already since he hadn’t noticed that initially.

He knew he could take her down now. He could kiss her senseless and just drive to her place and they would have sex and that would be the end like the cases they both handled but he just couldn’t.

He couldn’t bring himself to.

“I have a son.’’

‘’we can drive to my place and celebrate our victory.’’ She didn’t give up and pushed closer but he moved away. In fact he didn’t have just one son. He was gonna have another one soon!

That was what he told himself when he spoke again. ‘’I have to go. I’m sorry. You were great Jamie but let our relationship remain strictly official.’’

She looked obviously disappointed.

“okay.’’ Was all she could say before she hurried into her car and sped off.

Josh raked his hands through his hair. What in the world was happening to him? The way he overcame that temptation that just dangled right in his eyes he couldn’t say. But one side of him was glad.

He wasn’t an animal after all

When Josh got home, he saw his son sitting at the piano and smiled as he watched Demi sit close to him teaching him slowly and making sure he understood what she said.

“hey…’’

Gavin turned and ran to greet his father. They were beginning to bond slowly and Josh was grateful once more to Scarlett for this. Gavin on the other hand was happy his father returned home early these days and they spent more time with each other in whatever it is Josh suggested they do.

Next year, he was going to start playing cricket and he grew more excited that he would start mixing with other kids in their games.

‘’how’s his piano lessons? Improving?’’

“a little. I think he has his mind set on drawing instead.’’ Demi smiled. ‘’but you need to hear him read. I wont be surprised if this boy grows up to write his own encyclopedia.’’

‘really?’’ Josh looked at Gavin with a grin and nudged him playfully. The boy giggled and wiggled out of his father’s arms.

“let me show you what I drew today Dad.’’ He pulled his father’s hands and dragged him to his room. ‘’and I’m going to read those big words Aunt Demi thought I couldn’t pronounce.’’

Josh followed him into his room and stared with wide eyes as Gavin showed him so many images of what he had drawn while he was away.

“wow, this is awesome.’’

“I know right?’’ Demi laughed.

Josh couldn’t be more pleased.

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‘hey’’

Josh looked up from his ipad and saw Demi staring at him from the door of his study. “may I come in?’’

“sure.’’ He relaxed into his chair and stretched looking at the time.

11pm.

“you look tired.’’

“yea, I guess I am.’’

She came to settle on the leather cushion that faced him. ‘’I called Scarlett today.’’

Josh’s head jerked up and his heart beat wildly in his chest. ’’is she okay? Is the baby okay? Did something go wrong?’’

Demi smiled. ‘’she’s fine. Infact she’s doing better than I expected and she told me to extend her greetings to you.’’

Josh relaxed once more.

“you miss her don’t you?’’

‘’now that’s an understatement.’’ He breathed. ‘’you don’t know how hard it is to know where she is and yet, I can’t even go to her. I can’t even feel her or feel my baby inside her moving against my palms. It’s complete torture.’’

“it took Gavin a while to get over it all but he still brings it up once in a while.’’ She sighed sadly

“you know why she left don’t you?’’

“she gave me her bullet points.’’ He scoffed.

“you mentioned she wants you to find God.’’ She continued. ‘’then why don’t you find God and stop making your journey so hard and difficult. You want to turn a 4odays journey into 4o years like the isrealites.’’

‘’I don’t even know where to start from.’’

‘Start by realizing you need him and don’t try proving anything because you’re nothing. And be humble. He loves a humble heart and a humble appearance too.’’

‘’you say it like it’s one easy task.’’

“you’re not the first who would seek God Josh darling neither will you be last. So start now.’’

And she was gone leaving him to ponder on what she had said

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The few months Scarlett spent working for Mr. Becker proved stressful initially but after a while, she got used to it and took her time undergoing the same procedures as before. She put his files in order, answered his calls and other calls coming in for the company and kept note of his appointments that came up almost every day.

Though sometimes, she would feel sleepy, she tried not to act lazy at work and when she got home, she would slump on the couch and doze off till the next morning hungry and in a hurry

She was seven months gone, and she was even looking it and she could tell the baby was really weighing her down. Her feet felt swollen, her back ached and she suddenly wished she could get a good massage from a loving hand. Her mind flashed to Josh and she shut out the thoughts immediately before she started fantasizing.

But the days when the hormones took over her, she couldn’t help but wish he was with her, holding her and loving her the way he used to.

It felt so long and it took her extra grace not to dial his number cos she knew he would be beside her in a jiffy if she showed any sign of weakness and so she would remain calm and keep praying for him.

Keep praying that God would find him and pull him out of the dark pit where he was currently.

Absentmindedly, she rubbed her blip and felt the baby kick against her reminding her she had to go for her prenatal appointment today with her mother.

She was ready for everything except the sex of the child.

She wanted it to be a surprise for herself and Josh.

Most especially Josh.

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It was a beautiful day no doubt. The blue sky giving credence to the sun that shone brightly in the sky and the day promising to be a fruitful and unforgettable one as people moved about mumbling about one thing or the other, while others were involved in organizing the ceremony.

Rea grew nervous and kept fidgeting

“I cant believe this is happening.’’ She told Sue who had her younger sister Eleanor carry her baby for her.

“you’ll be fine Rea…, just relax. Look into my eyes and take a deep breath.’’

“it’s easier said than done.’’

‘’well, I did it, and here I am now. So its your turn. You better get that into your brain walk out of this room and into the church and tell that goodlooking man that you’re sticking by him for better for worse till death parts you both.’’

Rea breathed. ‘’till death parts us.’’

“good.’’ Sue smiled Inhale it, think about it and do it! Now that’s the spirit.’’ Sue smiled

Rea nodded and looked around. ‘’ I need to see Scarlett.’’

“she’ll be here soon. You just get ready in five minutes to step out.’’

Rick’s head popped in. ’’you girls through?’’

Rea turned to look at her stepfather and beamed. He came close and she embraced him ‘’thank you. I couldn’t wish for another man to be my father.’’

“Neither could I wish for a better daughter.’’ He kissed her cheeks while releasing her.

Rea teased. ‘’don’t let the twins hear you.’’

“hmmmn, that’s a good idea.’’ He smiled down at her and traced the dark curl that found way to her face beneath her wedding veil. She looked like a princess. His princess and he was handing her over to another man. He had never seen Rea so beautiful and innocent at the same time.

It was like she was more of God’s bride than Ryan and he marveled in the way she had grown to be so lovely years afterwards.

“I love you sweetheart and I want you to know that the fact that you’re getting married to Ryan doesn’t mean I’ll stop caring for you. you’re still welcome home anytime.’’

“thank you.’’

He extended his hand to her. ‘’I guess this is it then.’’

Rea grew emotional and tried not to cry. ‘’I guess so.’’

“Ready to be Mrs Andrea Riverstone?’’

“I am.’’

“Rea?’’

Rea turned just to see Scarlett peeping through the door. She came in quite easily even in her round form. ‘’I didn’t wanna miss this part.’’

Rea hurried to embrace her and that was when the tears came. ‘’I thought you had changed your mind.’’

“I would never do that. Don’t forget you’re my best friend.’’

They both laughed and cried at the same time and Rea touched her friend’s round stomach. ‘’it’s huge and beautiful.’’

“thank you.’’ she sniffed. ‘’now enough of all the mushy mushy and go get your prince.’’

Rea giggled and ran into her father’s arms who led her out into the church building and down the aisle.

Once she stepped onto the path that led to the aisle, she could see nothing else. No one else apart from Ryan Riverstone and his handsome face smiling at her as she headed towards him.

From that moment on, she knew she was his, and he was hers.

Infact, they belonged together.

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Scarlett watched from the room where Rea had just left and couldn’t describe how she felt at that moment. She was so excited and sober at the same time. She was happy for Rea but there was a little sadness that tugged at her heart reminding her that she would have been the one walking down that aisle if she hadn’t become a baby mama.

She knew it was her flesh that made her feel guilty and she needed the soothing voice of the Spirit to comfort her. She was getting past that life of feeling sorry for herself and basking in past mistakes.

She wasn’t going to let them ruin her future.

‘’hey..’’

Scarlett turned to see Josh standing behind her and she almost fainted but he was fast to reach her in time before she fell.

“you okay?’’ he queried

She nodded when he helped her settle on the chaise lounge present in the room. He was grateful for the throw pillows that he found lying about in the room and helped her to it at her request.

‘’wow’’ was all he could say when he saw how huge she was looking with his baby.

‘’I have to join the congregation.’’ She managed. She wanted to get away from him as soon as possible. It seemed as if the baby wasn’t the only thing responsible for skyrocketing hormones.

Josh was.

“how have you been?’’

“Great. And you?’’

“Miserable without you.’’ he looked into her eyes then and it was then she noticed he was unshaven. He had left his beards to grow and he looked older this time.

His hands went to her stomach but she stopped him. ‘’please don’t’’

“please, just this once. At least let me feel my baby.’’ She settled on the chair and allowed him to touch her stomach, watching his hands move in slow motion.

He further begged. ‘’please, can I see it?’’

“Josh, please…’’

“I won’t do anything compromising I promise.’’ He pleaded and he helped her to unfold her gown so that her stomach could be revealed.

“its beautiful.’’ He murmured.

Scarlett inhaled sharply when he kissed her stomach and splayed his hands on her womb. ‘’I bet it’ll be a girl who’ll look just like you.’’ he smiled. It was then she saw his eyes rimming with tears when he pressed his ears close to her and it took everything within her not to rake her hands through his thick wavy hair while he lingered affectionately against her round form..

She pulled down her gown immediately. ‘’I guess that will be all for now.’’ She was glad her face was dry and she sounded bold. She got up from the Chaise lounge and smoothened her hair and her dress.

“how’s Gavin?’’

“he’s doing great.’’

she nodded. ‘’I can handle myself from here so no need to look out for me.’’ she picked her purse and headed out of the room trying to gain access into the congregation without getting too much attention drawn to herself.

It was when she settled that she realized Josh had still not found God and bit her lip in agony.

“how long o Lord?…, how long will it take him to seek you and find you?’’

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When Scarlett woke up the next morning, she was hungry and stood up from the bed stretching while looking around.

Her room was still looking like a princess’s castle just the way her parents had adorned it before she went to college and finally moved out and she suddenly missed her childhood.

Not wanting to bask in the past, she pulled on her fluffy slipper and hurried downstairs just to see her Father in the kitchen serving himself a cup of coffee while looking at the morning paper. She hadn’t seen him before going to bed yesterday and now that she saw him, he suddenly looked older to her. the wrinkles on his face and his grey hair that displayed themselves gloriously on his temples and on some other areas of his hair.

Even in Jeans and T shirt, he still looked good and handsome and at that moment, she knew she wanted to have what her parents had. 26years of marriage and they were still together. she was their only child and he was content. All his years, she had never heard her mother complain that he cheated on her, he treated her well and respected her. if she ever heard them quarrel or disagree, it was in the solace of their bedroom and soon they were together, smooching and acting like they couldn’t do without each other.

But she didn’t think she had started well and she hoped she still had the chance to right her wrongs.

Even if she was a single mother, she hoped she would find a man that was godly and just like her father.

“Goodmorning Dad.’’

He turned to look at her and smiled. ‘’hey kiddo.’’

That smile made her come closer and embrace him. ‘’I miss you.’’

‘’I miss you too pumpkin.’’

“I’m sorry.’’

“hey, it’s okay.’’ He kissed her hair and bent to plant another one close to her lips. Same old Dad. He never stopped doing that. It was like a special bond between them and that was like ‘a welcome greeting’ that she could stay.

She knew her mother would have talked to him and inwardly she was grateful.

‘’coffee?’’

She grimaced.

‘’oh, I’m sorry. I almost forgot.’’ He dropped his paper and coffee mug and went over to pour her a glass of milk.

‘’thanks.’’ She gulped down the glass and helped herself to the cookie jar. ‘’I’m pretty hungry.’’ She laughed when her father’s eyebrows shot up at the way she gulped down the whole glass of milk.

“let me make you breakfast then.’’

She settled down and kept munching her cookies. ‘’where’s mum?’’

“early morning personal devotion and jogging.’’

She nodded silently remembering her mother’s habit and knew she would have to develop that habit soon herself.

“that big guy of yours is amazing. He acts like he’s known us years before now.’’

“you mean Bernie?’’

“yep. How long have you had him?’’

“just two years.’’

“you sure know how to pick animals.’’Her father passed her a plate of waffles and poured her another glass of milk.

“thanks.’’

She dug into her waffles and ate to satisfaction before her father settled down before her.

“I wouldn’t be doing my duty as your father if I pretend like everything’s okay when it isn’t.’’ he began looking into her eyes. ‘’but I wont judge you. I know you made a poor decision in life but and you’ve realized your mistakes, but I want to ask you is what next?’’

Scarlett bit her lip. She knew that was why her mother had left earlier than usual, So that they can have a heart to heart chat.

“well, I came back home because I needed to find God. I’ve gone so far away from God like David did and I need to know what he’s saying to me. what he wants me to do and I need to rededicate my life to him afresh.’’

‘’okay.’’

She shrugged. ‘’I guess that’s the major aspect of me coming home.’’

“and Josh?’’

She looked away. ‘’he’s in my past.’’

“he’s the father of your baby. Are you ready to be a single mother?’’

“he proposed but I refused. I did wrong in the first place. Getting married to him would make things worse. I told him he needed to find God.’’

“and if he comes here looking for you?’’

“he wont. I told him not to.’’

“how far gone are you?’’

‘’two months.’’

‘’what about your job?’’

Scarlett grew sad. ‘’God will work something out for me. I blew the first one. I’m thinking of sending out my CV once more but how many schools would want to employ an unwed pregnant woman?’’

“you don’t look it…’’

“well for now I don’t but just wait till my fifth or sixth month and I’ll be looking like an elephant.’’

“well, I talked to Mr. Becker this morning if you could work for him again for the main time and he was more than willing to let you back. He even insisted he would pay you double of what he was paying you before you left. I guess he was scared you left because he couldn’t afford you.’’

Scarlett’s eyes widened. ‘’you did that for me?’’

“just the little I could do.’’

“oh Dad, you don’t know how much this means to me.’’ she knew the baby was responsible for her getting all mushy and she stood up to hug her father. ‘’ I love you so much.’’

‘’I love you too sweetheart.’’ He rubbed her back fondly.

She settled on his leg gently and looked into his eyes. ‘’you know the kind of man I always dreamed getting married to?’’

He smiled. ‘’I think I do.’’

They laughed together and she embraced him again. ‘’it’s someone who’s just like you Daddy. Exactly like you. who loves God and loves his family and receives me like the prodigal daughter that I am.’’ She wept into his neck.

“shhh..its okay sweetie. If Jesus can receive you, who am I to reject you?’’

She released him and wiped her face with her hands. ‘’will you help me get back on track with God? I think I lost my way a long time ago…’’

‘’I’m the best coach you could ever have kiddo!’’ he lifted her on her feet feigning a strict voice ‘’now go upstairs and clean up. Bible study starts now.’’

She giggled and rushed upstairs thanking God once more.

Episode 17

Scarlett packed her last box into the bonnet of her car and slammed it down hoping she wouldn’t change her mind at this last minute. The sun shining down on her reminded her that this period would have been her wedding but things had changed. She remembered going to see Gabe about two days ago in prison after testifying in court when Josh insisted that she should. She didn’t want to but she had to after she had been summoned.

Her mind flashed back to the conversation they had two days ago and how she felt completely responsible and guilty for the whole ordeal. When she sat down opposite him in the orange ward uniform, she tried not to cry. If she hadn’t cheated, he wouldn’t be here behind bars.

“hi.’’ She had greeted first

“hi’’

‘’I’m sorry about this…, about everything.’’

He was quiet.

“how are you faring?’’

‘’you should know. At least your boyfriend should be able to give you feedback on how well I’d be faring when he sent me to a place like this.’’

“Gabe…’’

“I shouldn’t have hit you.’’ he sobered. ‘’and I’m sorry I let my anger take over me. I almost killed you and your baby. That innocent soul who I bet and pray is nothing like you.’’

Scarlett felt slapped in the face by that statement. ‘’I didn’t mean for any of this to happen.’’

“me neither but it has and we have to move on.’’

“I ask you to forgive me Gabe. I did you wrong and I’m sorry. I cheated on you and made you lose your job and so much more.’’

“that still isn’t an excuse for my violent act against you.’’ he paused and looked into her eyes. ‘’I’ve been referred to a psychiatrist and I’ll be checking in tomorrow.’’

She nodded. She knew about this already.

His hands went to his face and he held back the tears. ‘’I can’t believe I let you go so easily. I loved you Scarlett and you know I’d give anything for you but you just ripped my heart out and kept crushing it anytime I saw you with that Josh guy. Tell me what he had that I didn’t.’’

She inhaled deeply and repeated. ‘’I’m sorry.’’

She had left after they escorted him back to the cell and knew nothing was ever going to make her go back to that prison ever again.

In due time, he would be released and she hoped they never crossed paths.

Her colleague Mr. Chase had also apologized when she came over to the school to hand over her resignation letter and pack her things. He had confessed to be responsible for revealing her affair with Josh when he noticed. He apologized it was out of jealousy he snitched to Gabe and she could only thank and forgive him.

At least, that had led to the wake up call.

Rea’s voice disrupted her thoughts and she turned to see her bringing Bernie outside.

“I wish I could convince you not to leave, but I know you have to.’’

She nodded and tried not to cry. Instead she opened the door for her dog and watched him leap inside.

‘’don’t forget to keep calling.’’

“I wont.’’ She forced a smile and pulled Rea closer holding her tightly and kissing her briefly.

“I love you.’’ Scarlett mumbled finally when they released each other.

“I love you too.’’

“I don’t have the heart to tell Sue myself but please tell her for me. I hope Josh can make Gavin understand.’’

“with time, they both will.’’

Scarlett smiled again when her eyes strolled to her friend’s finger. “I’m so happy for you that Ryan finally proposed.’’

Rea’s eyes turned misty. ‘’things will work out for you Scarlett. Just have faith in God. We’re humans and that’s why we make mistakes.’’

“I guess so.’’ She threw on her shades and touched her friend’s cheeks. ‘’Call me for your wedding. Now that’s one thing I don’t wanna miss.’’

“in five months time.’’ Rea grinned like a child and Scarlett knew she had found her second half in Ryan. ‘’I wish you would reconsider being my chief bridesmaid Scarlett….’’

She shook her head. ‘’you and I both know that by the time you’ll be getting married, I’ll be looking like a balloon and my baby blip will be so conspicuous by that time. It’d be awkward of me to stand beside you in Church.’’

“God sees your heart…’’

“but not everyone is like God.’’ She smiled and leaned closer to kiss her cheeks. “I’ll call you when I get home.’’

“greet Mum and Dad.’’

“I will.’’

She leaned closer to Bernie and rubbed his head fondly hoping she wouldn’t miss him as much as she would miss Scarlett.

That would be double torture in a huge house like hers.

She waved at her friend and watched her drive off till she was out of sight hoping she could find sweet solace and be ready to forgive herself after settling down at home.

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Scarlett watched Rea through her side mirror as she drove hoping she wouldn’t fall apart or rather change her mind and reverse. She didn’t realize how much she had missed Rea for those ten years she left Naperville and seeing her again had made her realize the power of friendship.

But she had ruined everything due to her foolishness.

Her mind flashed to Gavin and she wished there was a good explanation to give the boy before leaving. She thought about Josh and how much they’d shared, how she had given him her all and how he’d make her return back to square one.

She was leaving again.

She remembered how he’d pleaded with her to stay and how he would do anything to make her stay but she had remained adamant. Yes, she had to! She had been forgiven and she had to sit up and do as God would want her to.

She couldn’t let his Grace waste upon her life like Paul had said.

She thought of her baby blip and inhaled deeply. Two months were gone now and she still looked normal. In about four to five months more, she would be looking pregnant.

And then she would be a single mum.

“oh God.’’ She prayed as the tears strolled down. ‘’I know I did wrong and I’m sorry. But please tell me where to go from here cos I feel so lost and helpless. I don’t even know where to start and I’d appreciate you taking the wheels of my life right now.’’

Not long after, she felt a certain calmness come over her spirit as she drove and she was grateful for the presence of God that had suddenly filled her being making the fear of everything jump out of the window all at once.

She wasn’t afraid anymore.

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When Scarlett drove right in front of her parent’s house, she prayed once more before getting down and stared at the door wondering if her parents were even home at that time.

She stepped out of the car and tucked her hair behind her ears absent minded moving slowly towards the door.

“Scarlett?’’ she heard her mum’s voice behind her

She turned immediately and saw the older woman carrying two bags of groceries in hand and looking at her awkwardly through her glasses.

“Mum?’’

“come here and help me with these will you?’’ there was a bantering tone in her voice and a smile that was so welcoming she hurriedly lifted the bags off her hands and headed into the house through the back door.

“my God!’’ she sighed exhaustively and shook her head once they stepped into the kitchen and Scarlett started unpacking the cereals, fruits and ingredients her mother had brought home. ‘’if you know the number of places I visited today before going to the store, you would think I was doing more than just horticulture.’’ She laughed and helped herself to a bottle of water from the fridge while Scarlett stood watching her.

‘’how are you?’’

“I’m doing great.’’ She smiled briefly and looked at Scarlett in the eyes. ‘’I should be asking you that same question.’’

‘’I’ll be fine…, I guess.’’

Her mother didn’t take her eyes away from her. ‘’you mind talking about it?’’

‘’I don’t even know where to start from.’’

Alexandra nodded.

“how’s Dad?’’

“he’s doing great I suppose.’’

“How did he take the news?’’

“well, not quite well. You know your father. He’s not very tolerant about that kind of news but we agreed not to say anything till we hear your side of the story.’’

“ there’s nothing much to say…’’Scarlett looked away. ‘’I’m not that innocent myself.’’

Mrs Ruby sighed “I find it hard to believe you would Cheat on Gabe although I know you two haven’t been married yet but it’s just not in my baby to hurt other people’s feelings.’’

“I saw Josh.’’

She saw the shock in her mother’s face but she remained quiet.

“I almost moved in with him since I had some of my things in his place and I spent my weekends there.’’

Alex closed her eyes painfully as her daughter continued. ‘’I had sex with him. not once, not twice.’’ Scarlett allowed her news to sink in before she spilled the final news. ‘’and I’m carrying his baby.’’

Her mother looked pale and raised her hands to her mouth. She removed her glasses and settled weakly on the wicker chair. She wished her daughter will burst out laughing that it was all a joke but the look on her face made her realize it was as real as it could get.

“I’m sorry I disappointed you.’’ her eyes rimmed with tears. ‘’and Dad. I’m sorry that I let all your efforts to make me forget Josh turn useless and I’m sorry about Gabe. I don’t know what his parents would have told you but I’m not innocent either. I just want you to know all this so that I can know if you want me to leave or go someplace else.’’

“you’re not going anywhere baby.’’ Alex stood up immediately to hug her daughter and Scarlett melted into her. This was what she needed right now. This was what she had been afraid to spill when driving.

She had pondered on where to stay if she wasn’t allowed to stay here and prayed God would intervene.

She suddenly saw herself as the Prodigal daughter and she was glad God had a hand in her mother taking her back.

Yes you highness. I was just been silly as usual..

Eneze1:

better, because am already salivating for the concluding part, y u wan see my face?

[quote author=Eneze1]

Except you are faceless sha.. and we know who faceless people are according to our president.

Eneze1: seriously I love this, u got me captivated to the story till I finished reading, don't tell me this is the end ooo, keep up the good work

This is not the end, but we are gradually getting there.. and why you dey hide your face naa..

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“hi’’

Rea turned and saw Ryan standing behind her holding two cups of coffee in both hands. She received a cup from him and murmured her thanks. ‘’don’t you have a patient to attend to?’’

“I’m on a little break. Lunch hour I guess.’’

‘’it’s sad that you have to spend it with such a bore like me’’ Rea laughed nervously realizing he still remembered how she liked her coffee being served. No milk, no sugar.

“thanks.’’ She told him again and he smiled into her eyes. “you look worn out.’’

“now that’s an understatement.’’ She sipped her coffee and sighed with great delight.

“I just want to tell you that if you need a shoulder to lean on, I’m here for you.’’ he chiped in.

She looked at him then and raised her hand to rub the aching spot behind her neck. She really needed to sleep. ‘’Ryan.., the fact that you kissed me about a week ago doesn’t change anything.’’

“then what does?’’

“Mike doesn’t talk to me like the way we used to anymore and I know it’s because you told him about us that night.’’

“he’s my best friend. I should be the one worried about that.’’

“He’s a great guy and he feels I owe him more than an explanation.’’

“Mike isn’t like that. He’s just staying away hoping he doesn’t come in between the both of us.’’ Ryan explained. ‘’he even mentioned it to me that he suspected something brewing between the both of us but he tried to give us a benefit of doubt. He says it was in your eyes the way you got lost when he talked to you.’’

Andrea smiled to herself sadly. ‘’after 3years, who would have thought I’d still be in love with you.’’

‘’I broke up with Emilia.’’ He said.

‘’and I don’t need to tell you the deal between myself and Mike.’’

They laughed together.

‘’I’m sorry…’’

“me too.’’

‘’no you’re not!’’ Rea retorted and nudged him playfully. He allowed his left hand rest on her shoulder and pulled her close to his side. ‘’you think we can give it another shot?’’

‘’maybe..’’ she yawned.

“you’re doing that thing again.’’ He poked her and she giggled. “that thing you do when you yawn feigning uninterest whereas you really want us to give it a shot.’’

“no really, I’m tired and hungry.’’ She laughed. ‘’all I need right now is a good shower, a very delicious breakfast and a good massage. I haven’t had a good night rest since 3 days ago.’’

“I could help out.’’

Rea looked at him with horror in her eyes. ‘’oh no you don’t! We both know you give the worst massages.’’ She relaxed into him. ‘’and by the way, that’s not allowed till we tie the knot.’’

Ryan’s heart beat wildly in his Chest and Rea could hear the fast rhythm of his heart and smiled. She had given him hope and there was no turning back.

EPISODE 16

Rea kept pacing while praying within that her best friend would come out fine most especially in a case like this that a baby was involved and this was just the first trimester.

Gabe had called her and she wasn’t a rocket scientist to realize what had happened. He hit her bad out of anger no doubt. What Scarlett had done was enough to make him go nuts but not a good reason to hit her into unconsciousness. Last night, Scarlett had told her she was finally going to tell Gabe she couldn’t go on with their wedding and she had agreed with her.

And the next thing she knew, her friend was being wheeled into the hospital. What if they were married, would he have killed her?

she glanced at Gabe and shivered on the thought. Who would know a calm and wonderful guy like him could just loose it all at once like that.

He had been pleading all day and she knew his pleas wouldn’t take him far because very soon, Josh would be here and her parents. Most definitely if Josh didn’t get angry and try to throw a punch into his face, he would make sure he was thrown into Prison.

As if he was reading her mind, Josh came hurrying into the hospital and Rea stood up to calm him down when he started panicking. She began to doubt the reason why She had informed Josh about the whole ordeal

Or was it the fact that she wanted him to share in the blame of what had happened to her friend? After all, it had been his fault.

“Josh, you have to calm down.’’ She cautioned. ‘’Ryan says she’ll be fine. Minor bruises and a little fracture is what needs attention.’’

He raked his hands through his hair. ‘’I have to see her…’’

“no, not now. She’s still needs to rest. She’s responding to treatment though.’’

Ryan came out at and Rea was grateful to see him at that moment. She didn’t have the strength to explain anything to Josh anymore.

Gabe stood up from where he was sitting to hear the news.

“she’s doing great.’’ He smiled at Rea and she sighed in relief. ‘’and her baby is perfectly okay. No form of bleeding, loss or damage.’’

Josh’s eyes widened and Gabe’s as well ‘’baby?…what baby.., what are you talking about?’’ he looked at Rea and turned to look at Ryan again. ‘’I didn’t know anything about a baby…, is Scarlett pregnant?’’

“she’s 8weeks pregnant.’’ Ryan confirmed and excused himself. Rea felt trapped when Josh turned to look at her. ‘’she didn’t mention anything to me.’’

“she didn’t want to. She didn’t have the strength to after the whole affair between the two of you.’’

“but it’s my baby. I have every right to know!’’ he was almost yelling.

“oh really?’’ Rea spat. ‘’and that’s the reason why she’s in the hospital you jerk! It’s because of you! It’s because she was sleeping with you while she was getting married to someone else. How do you expect her fiancé to feel when he found out.’’

Josh boiled realizing the truth almost immediately. So the reason why Scarlett was in the hospital was because the Gabe of a guy had found out about their relationship and took it out on her.

Gabe turned to look at Josh recognizing him fully well as the man who had snatched Scarlett away and felt a deep sense of loss and regret. There was no way Scarlett would ever come back to him. she was even carrying his baby. Was that how far the both of them had gone?

Josh looked at Gabe realizing he must be the one and it took him all his strength not to throw a fist into his face as Rea came to stand before him. it was like she knew what he was about to do.

“Hitting him won’t solve anything Josh, so just forget about it.’’

“you’re going to jail.’’ He fumed pointing a finger at him

“you were having sex with my fiance.’’

“then why didn’t you take it out on me!’’ he wanted to grab him but Rea grabbed him by the shoulders hereby preventing him from gaining full access to Gabe

“Josh!’’

‘’He’s a coward! If he knows he’s man enough, he should have taken it out on me, man to man, not hit my Girlfriend.’’

“she’s not your girlfriend’’ Gabe spat

“and she’s not your fiance anymore asshole!’’ Josh scoffed. ‘’oh, you’re damn lucky my baby is safe or you’d be spending the rest of your life roaming the streets young man.’’

“is that the best you can do?’’

Rea was disgusted at the way both men argued shamelessly over a woman who was on the hospital bed who hadn’t even opened her eyes yet. Both of them were wrong. Absolutely wrong but yet they talked like everything was their right.

“stop it! the both of you! Jeez, where are we? High school or kindergarten? My best friend is inside that hospital, lying down in a coma and you guy are here talking like kids! I wonder how she endured going out with you both.’’ She turned to face Gabe. ‘’you’re going to pay for beating up for my bestfriend that way, I assure you and there’s no doubt about that.’’ She looked at Josh. ‘’I don’t want you checking on her now. You’re the last person she needs to see.’’

And she left the both of them.

Josh picked his cellphone and dialed a number. It didn’t take Gabe long enough to know who Josh was calling and he prepared himself for it.

Soon, Gabe was being handcuffed and led into the police car parked outside after being told he had the right to an attorney and other statements that had to go with it.

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The darkness was thick enough to envelope her being and the invisible shackles held her captive making it hard for her to move. The more she struggled, the more the invisible chains tore through her skin and she felt something hot trickling down her flesh as the chains tightened.

She blinked several times trying to find some sort of light but she couldn’t and soon enough, her eyes got accustomed to the darkness and she weakened unable to move. She couldn’t point out something in the darkness and it felt like she’d been there for days and the heat became so unbearable she spoke up.

“please, help me…’’

The last thing she remembered was the struggle between herself and Gabe and how she’d tried to rush to the door and run out and the next thing she had felt was the sharp pain and a loud thud on the door before she blacked out.

And ever since she blacked out, she had remained in this tormenting darkness and scorching heat. The hotness she felt trickling down her flesh felt like blood and that was when she remembered she was pregnant.

Had she lost the baby?

“somebody please, help me.’’ she choked out almost unable to squeeze out the words as the invisible shackles had also found way to her throat and seemed to be squeezing gently at first then tightly. She wanted to call out God’s name but she didn’t have the strength to, neither did she have the courage after all she had done and all the present images of herself and Josh played in her memory.

Then she began to cry. She would call out God’s name and if he wouldn’t hear her, so be it.

She just prayed this torment wasn’t forever…, no human could survive this long. She was even surprised that she was still alive.

“oh God!, please, help me…, save me.., please. I’m so sorry.’’ She shook as she prayed and kept weeping till she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder.

She blinked and realized the darkness had cleared and friendly eyes stared down at her, reaching out to her.

She took his hand and he lifted her gently. It was then she realized the invisible chains had broken free but she was still naked.

She cowered immediately but he pulled her close to himself and she felt a cloak envelop her being. It was as if at that moment she realized who He was and quickly fell to her knees.

“Jesus, I’m so sorry.’’ She wept and placed her face on his feet trying not to look into his eyes. She didn’t deserve his mercy. She had done him wrong. She hadn’t been faithful but compromising, forgetting her purpose and seeking the will of her flesh. She had let him down in so many ways and she suddenly felt disgusted at her actions.

She recognized the hole on his feet and wept more feeling more and more ashamed. ‘’I’m no better than Judas who betrayed you..’’

“hush..it’s okay.’’ He bent low to cup her face in his hands and she could see he was weeping too. ‘’I know everything you want to say and I know you’re dying so much inside to spill everything out but just know I’ve forgiven you and I need you not to sin anymore.’’

“I wont. I promise you, I wont. I wont…, I wont…, I wont..’’ she kept on saying till she opened her eyes into reality and Rea tried to calm her down.

“Scarlett…, Scarlett..’’ she called out to her and she jerked up from the bed looking at her friend and Susan who stood beside her.

“Andrea…Sue.’’ She breathed and sank back into the bed realizing she was back to earth and this was her reality. What she had seen earlier was horrifying as well as Divine. God had forgiven her and she had to make amends.

“I’m sorry.’’ She told them both

Rea hushed her. ‘’it’s ok. Don’t talk much if you’re not up to it.’’

“How many days have I been here?’’

“three days.’’

She nodded slowly as if assimilating the information. ‘’and the baby?’’

“your baby is fine.’’

She sighed and tried not to cry. She couldn’t cry anymore. ‘’I just had a strange dream or I’d rather call it an experience.’’ she closed her eyes. ‘’I don’t even know how to start.’’

“you can tell us when you’re up to it.’’

She tried to turn and groaned in pain realizing her arm was sprained. Her head suddenly felt heavy and that was when she realized that there was a bandage wrapped around her head and her eyes felt swollen. She wondered what else had happened to her face.

“when am I getting discharged?’’

“tomorrow afternoon.’’ Sue responded. ‘’don’t worry you don’t look that bad.’’

Scarlett tried to smile and asked for a mirror while Rea helped her to sit up. Sue obeyed and brought one close to her face thinking Scarlett would gasp once she saw her reflection but she just sighed and shrugged. ‘’it would have been worse.’’

“I’ll fix your hair for you when you get discharged.’’

“thanks ladies. But right now, I think I’d like to be alone.’’

“sure.’’ The two women looked at each other before planting a kiss on her cheeks.

They were about to get to the door when she called out. ‘’Sue, I’m sorry for the stress I put you through. You coming here and all…, in your present state’’

“hey, don’t mention it.’’

“and Rea, thank you very much for being my friend even when I don’t deserve to be called that.’’

‘’you’ll always be my friend and you know that.’’

She nodded and watched them leave. Immediately the door closed behind her, she closed her eyes and raised her hands to her face while she wept, her whole being doing so along with her.

If she had once queried about God’s mercy, she need not anymore. An example was what he had bestowed upon her presently and she wouldn’t let his grace waste upon her life.

Not anymore. After all, she promised her savior she would set things right and that she would start immediately.

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When Josh entered the hospital room and saw Scarlett, anger welled up in him at the bruises present on her face and dwelled on how he would make sure that Gabe of a man spent more time in jail. Never would he lay hands on any woman again, not even Scarlett.

He would make sure of it once they got married and provide adequate security for her .

“baby…’’ he came towards her and was about planting a kiss on her lips when she moved her face away slightly hereby making his lips land on her cheeks. He was taken aback by her action and looked into her eyes then. ‘’What’s wrong?’’

“nothing’s wrong.’’ She looked into his eyes this time knowing fully well she owed him a lot of explanation and they’d better start now.

His hands searched for her hand but she recoiled. ‘’you won’t even let me touch you…’’ he murmured his eyes becoming sad making him wonder if it was Gabe that caused all of this.

‘’we have to talk.’’ Was all she said

‘’okay. I’m listening.’’ He was eager to hear what she had to say. Anything she wanted, he would give her. he settled unto the chair beside her bed and pulled it closer to her.

‘’I’m sorry for everything that happened between us and that you had to find out this way about the baby.’’

“hey, it’s okay. I mean it’s my baby and once we get married, we’ll be a family together with Gavin.’’

Scarlett shook her head. ‘’now that’s why we need to talk Josh because this thing between us, it has to end.’’

Josh frowned. ‘’what are you talking about?’’

‘’I cant marry you. i’m sorry I made it look that way from the beginning.’’

“we’ll work things out.’’

“in places where the both of us are concerned, working things out isn’t an option.’’ She was firm and was glad for the strength she had to face him. Never had she imagined herself with such courage and she thanked God

“i wronged you. I wronged Gavin, I wronged myself and I wronged God in all ways possible.’ She continued. ‘’I tried to do things on my own and I let myself get carried away. I was obsessed about you and allowed myself believe I couldn’t love or move on without you. I worshiped you and you were like my personal idol unknown to me. Right from our high school days, I fell in love with you but it didn’t end there. I thought only you could make me feel beautiful not realizing I was beautiful in God’s eyes no matter what anyone told me or said about me. I had this inferiority complex and felt so unloved. I didn’t keep my virginity for purity reasons but I kept it because I felt I would get the perfect guy to give it to which was wrong. The first night we had sex, I wasn’t prepared for it, but after it all happened, one side of me was glad that I had given it to you. it made me feel I belonged to you in some sort of way whereas the other side of me hated the deed so much but after a while I didn’t care. I wanted you so badly and I had you. I wanted you to Chase me and make me feel beautiful the way I didn’t years ago and was glad you saw me as the woman in your life.’’

Josh was quiet and when her eyes began to mist, it took him extra will power not to kiss her tears away.

“But I was wrong. I’ve been wrong my whole life. and I did so many wrong things. I put you at the center whereas, God is meant to be at the center. I made you my reason for existence and thought I’d die if I didn’t have you. and if I had died, if you had died, we would have gone to Hell. I wronged you because I didn’t tell you about God or try to draw you closer to God. I let my feelings get in the way. I worked my way into your bed instead. I wronged Gavin because He believed in me and saw me as his role model but I didn’t prove to be one. And I wronged myself in so many ways being that I didn’t see what God wanted for me but rather I kept seeing you.’’

Josh inhaled deeply hoping the next words wont hurt him deeply. ‘’So what next now?’’

“I’m breaking up with you. our relationship cant continue because it’s ungodly. I want you to find God before I can even consider moving on with you.’’

Josh swallowed. ‘’and what about Gavin, and my baby…’’

“they’ll be fine. I’ll be getting discharged tomorrow and so I’ll be moving out of town next week after handing over my resignation letter to the school.’’

Josh’s eyes had begun to mist and he went on his knees grabbing her hands in panic. ‘’Scarlett, baby.., please you can’t do this to me. we can still work things out. I’ll find God. You can teach me about him and I promise, if you want us to stop having sex, then its okay with me. I can handle it but you can’t leave. Not after I’ve built my life around you. Not after you’ve bonded so much with Gavin…’’

Scarlett was shaking but tried to sound calm. ‘’if you Love me Josh, you’ll let me go.’’

“Baby please…’’

“I’m sorry, but its something I have to do and I’m not going back on my decision. I want to start a new life and I need to be far away from this place if I want to come out a different person. I need to spend time with God myself and realize what plans he has for me. I’ll be praying for you both cos you’re still both part of my life. Demi is not excluded and please thank that woman for me.’’

“I’ll send you emails and pictures of the baby when she’s out. But Josh please, if you don’t release me and if you let the court get involved, I’ll realize you don’t love me, and you’re doing this just because of the baby.’’

Josh raked his hand through his hair and placed a fist on his mouth so that he wouldn’t yell or scream. This woman was what he lived for. she was the one who took a piece of his heart when she left years ago and she was about to do the same now and he felt helpless. He looked into her eyes and knew she was sincere.

She held his hands and looked into his eyes. ‘’I love you Josh. I still do. But there’s a different yoke that ties us and if we don’t follow the same path, it won’t work out.’’

“I’ll follow you to Church. I’ll do anything you want me to do. I’ll let Gavin spend more time with you….’’ he went on and on till she stopped him.

“it’s not about Church Josh and that’s where you’re missing it. it’s about having that personal relationship with God. It’s about soul searching and realizing what God wants you to be. Once you find that, we’ll find each other. It’s that simple.’’

“and how long did it take you to figure all this out?’’

‘’A life changing experience that happened to me. I would have died and gone to hell but God had mercy on me and wants me to set things right.’’

He sat still pondering on all that she had said and hoping she would change her mind but she sat looking at him till a nurse came in with more of her drugs including analgesics and muscle relaxants and Josh had to excuse her.

Immediately he stepped out, he lost all reasoning and let the tears flow. He couldn’t remember the last time he cried but right now, he cried because it felt like his heart was being ripped out by the same woman it lived on.

How he would cope for the rest of the months that would pass by, he didn’t know but he knew she really had to go and trying to stop her wouldn’t make her love him better.

Her eyes had said it all

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Rea tried as much as possible to look composed when Mike sat beside her and Ryan and Emilia sat opposite them.

This double date wasn’t a good idea but she didn’t want to sound weird to Mike. The poor guy didn’t have any idea about how much she still had feelings for the guy sitting opposite them who looked too good to be true. He wore a black blazer and a tieless shirt inside making her wonder why he didn’t opt for a modeling career. His dirty blonde hair was neatly trimmed and combed while his blue eyes just stood out in his magnificent body.

Who would have known she could still feel this way even after giving her life to Christ.

She had to caution herself and her thoughts or she would have a sleepless night.

His finely chiseled face stared back at her when Mike asked what she would have on the menu and she hoped he would remove her piercing gaze but he didn’t.

Didn’t he mind that Emilia could suspect there was something between them?

“same thing you’re having.’’ She resigned inhaling deeply knowing she wouldn’t enjoy a single bit of this dinner date at all.

The waiter took their orders and Rea shifted closer to Mike, hoping that would make him realize she wasn’t in the mood for eye contact games or footsie either.

The last time they had played footsie, it was at an annual dinner where his uncle had been given a humanitarian award. He’d invited Ryan and Ryan had brought Rea along as his date. And then he knew trouble was brewing when she began teasing him with her toes.

She snapped out of silly thoughts that made her suddenly feel uncomfortable in the restaurant.

Rubbing her palms on her skirt nervously, she tried to focus on something else apart from the distracting figure sitting before her.

‘’so Rea, Mike tells me you went to Evergreen high school.’’ Ryan chiped in with an air of confidence not taking his eyes away from her. ‘’if I do remember clearly, i attended the same school.’’

Rea cocked her eyebrows. He was putting the ball in her court and she wished she could slam it against his face hard! He wanted to play games…, well she was up to it!

“wow!.., you were?’’ she faked a confused look. ‘’and what set was that?’’

‘’same set as yours I believe. Football team’’

“hmmmn, so what role did you play in the football team?’’ she added with spite. ‘’water boy?’’

Mike choked on his water and Rea could only smile when she saw the amused look on her boyfriend’s face, whereas, Ryan’s eyes were filled with anger.

Well, he had started it all in the first place.

“that’s Rea for you, you need an extra pair of sneakers to keep up with her.’’ Mike chipped in still laughing at her previous response to his best friend.

“it’s okay.’’ Ryan’s lips curved into a smile. ‘’I heard you dated someone in the team. You must have known how to pick guys.’’

Emilia’s eyebrows were raised. ‘’why do I think you two know each other so much more than hi and hello?’’

Rea ignored her.

“well, at that time, I didn’t know he was a block head till he proved to be one.’’ Rea smiled at Ryan sweetly and turned to her boyfriend. ‘’you know how it is for a guy to date a bimbo, I guess that’s how it was for me. you never know what you have with you till the true colours start revealing itself.’’

Mike responded. ‘’True’’ And continued proudly. ‘’but my friend here was the hot one in the team. That reminds me, I need to check out your year book. I missed out on so many old friends when I traveled to France.’’

“sure. At least you’ll get to see lots of pictures of my high school years, including the girl I took to Prom.’’ He smiled at Rea

Rea swallowed knowing he had her right where he wanted her. she had been the one he took to Prom, she had been the one he dated in their final year in high school and so many pictures including graduating ones that they had both snapped together.

She still even had the pictures back at home.

She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply jerking from her seat. She couldn’t hold it anymore, neither could she pretend anymore. ‘’you can tell him if you’re up to it, at least you’re best friends, but I can’t.’’ she turned to look at Mike and the tears came down. ‘’I’m sorry. You deserve someone better than me and I don’t think I can stay here one more second pretending everything is okay when it isn’t.’’

She picked her purse and set out to leave the restaurant. She noticed it had begun to rain and didn’t hesitate to step out not caring what was gonna happen to her or if she was getting soaked. She pulled off her four inched sandals and started walking with her bare feet hoping she would get a taxi that would drive her home.

All she wanted to do was go home and cry into her pillow, telling God she had tried all she could but didn’t succeed.

“Rea!’’ she heard her name in the rain but didn’t look back. She just kept on walking

Someone pulled her by the arm and at first instance, she thought it was Mike but her heart raced faster when she saw it was Ryan.

“baby…’’

“just let me go.’’ The rain mixed with her tears and she doubted Ryan noticed how weak and vulnerable she felt right now.

But instead of releasing her, he lowered his lips on hers and she hesitated. When he deepened it and lifted her off her feet, she couldn’t object and surrendered completely to him.

When he broke free, she looked into his blue eyes, his wet hair and the fact that her sandals still dangled in her hands.

“I love you.’’ He mumbled and she could say nothing more when he kissed her again.

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Gabe Morrison looked at Scarlett for what seemed like hours and couldn’t bring himself to mouth any words that wouldn’t hurt her. For seven years, he’d imagined her as the woman of his life. the one who he’d spent his life loving and serving. The one he could go extra miles for even without her asking. The girl who had been an angel the first time he met her. the sweet girl who had told him she was keeping herself for her husband.

That woman was the one who sat on his couch presently, looking like a stranger. Like a LovePeddler who prostituted herself to another man’s fantasies and he hated her so much. All she even had the guts to tell him presently was that she couldn’t go on with the marriage but with everything her colleague dished out to him not to talk of the suspicions he’d had about her ever since she moved back to her hometown, he knew there was so much more.

He’d been stalking her, no doubt and whenever he saw her going out with a particular guy, he turned away knowing he couldn’t bear to watch her rip his heart out.

And then it was worse when she spent the night at his place almost every Friday.

It took him self-control not to strangle her even though she sat crying beside him and begging him that she was sorry.

What would he tell his family and friends? All his college friends and colleagues who’d envied him that he was marrying Scarlett were going to make fun of him and confirm such a loser that He was. His company would offer their pathetic sympathy for his cancelled wedding and he would return to his lonely and miserable life.

He didn’t know when his hand cracked across her face and her body jerked hereby making her land on the floor.

He stood up and reached for her hair while she screamed in tears. “Gabe please, I’m sorry.’’

He hit her again and she struggled to get back to her feet but that was before he pushed her to the floor again but she crawled to the door while he reached for her legs and pulled her underneath him.

“where do you think you’re going huh?!’’ he cried angrily and reached for her blouse. ‘’you think I don’t know how you made yourself a cheap little LovePeddler every Friday night! You think I’m gonna let you go that easily.’’

“Gabe!’’ she screamed fully aware that if he raped her, she would lose her baby. He wouldn’t care less if she mentioned it. in fact, he would most definitely want her to lose the baby with the way his anger took over him

Never had she seen this side of Gabe before

The struggle was intense and when she managed to poke his eyes when he tried covering her mouth, she was able to break free but not for long as she felt her head bang against the door.

And then she sank to the floor unconscious.

“Scarlett?’’ he touched her but she didn’t budge.

“Scar?’’ Gabe grew scared and tapped her face but there was no response. He pulled her close to himself but she didn’t respond. ‘’oh my god!’’ he muttered and hurried over to the phone. ‘’what have I done?’’

Episode 15.

‘’I never knew you could cook so well.’’ Scarlett praised accepting the glass of red wine hand over to her by Josh while settling unto the couch beside him. in her wildest dreams, she had never suspected Josh as a better cook.

The alarm bells in her head had gone off immediately she decided to come over to his place for dinner.

“so you don’t mind about the change of plans that we’re having dinner at my place?’’

“I like it here.’’

“then why don’t you move In with me?’’

Scar found it hard to swallow. Move in with Josh Riley? He was asking Her to move in with him. this was so against what she believed in.

But hadn’t she permitted it all in the first place? She was the one meant to be pulling him towards God but He was doing a good job moving her away from him

But wasn’t this what she wanted, what she’d dreamed of in the past?

She shook her head. ‘’I cant. Gabe…’’

He looked into her eyes then. ‘’if you loved him, you wouldn’t be here with me.’’

She closed her eyes and felt the conscience prick her again. ‘’I can’t believe I’m doing this with you. I have to go.’’

She stood up immediately and headed for the door when he placed his hands on them making her trapped right under him.

“we’re selfish, and what we’re doing is so wrong. Gavin needs you now more than ever, and I’m his teacher who should be helping him in all ways possible. He loves you so much and that’s all I want to witness. But this thing that happened between us, if we continue like this, it’ll ruin everything.’’

“Gavin loves you…’’

“I know. But I haven’t been living up to my reputation.’’

‘’when are you going to tell Gabe about us?’’

Scarlett’s eyes widened. ‘’us?’’

Josh frowned. ‘’is there no us?’’

“I cant. I’ll break his heart.’’

“and so you’ll rather break mine?’’

“you came late Josh. Right when something could have worked between us, you walked away. Right when you should have stood up for me, you didn’t say a word and right when I was humiliated in high school and expected you to do something, you just acted like you knew nothing.’’ Her eyes were beginning to mist but she didn’t struggle to wipe away the tears when they came strolling down. “and now you tell me you love me when you have a girlfriend and a son and moved on ahead in life. don’t you care that I want to be happy too, that I want to live life too, and life doesn’t revolve around you alone?’’

“baby, I’m so sorry.’’ He tried holding her hands but she broke free. ‘’I would never hurt you and when that thing happened back In high school, I called you, I tried everything I could, I searched for you. I opted out of the football team and forfeited the scholarship all because of you. I felt everything was my fault and I wasn’t myself for days. Your parents wouldn’t even allow me near your house and my parents didn’t make things easier. I never knew what we had was Love till now. I felt it was just my heart playing tricks on me but you are the only woman who has this strange effect on me I can’t explain.’’

“I never knew you opted out of the football team…’’ she felt guilty. Sheila had done all she could to separate them and the kiss they’d shared, she thought he was in all of it.

And she had left hating him and hating herself knowing she would never fall for his type again.

And here he was looking broken and wanting her so badly. Why couldn’t she give herself to him when that was what they both wanted?

He began kissing her tears away and she weakened when his lips finally found hers, claiming them for his own gently at first and then deeply till she broke free for air.

She knew the wine had little or nothing to do with the way she was feeling presently

“we cant do this here, Gavin…’’ she managed to say before she went into his arms willingly.

He was strong enough to carry her upstairs.

Two hours later, Josh lay exhausted beside Scarlett and kissed her firmly on the lips. She didn’t resist this time but rested her head and her hands on his bare chest loving how solid he felt against her.

“I don’t know what you’re doing to me Scarlett, but you’ve got me falling head over heels for you.’’ He played with her hair absent mindedly. ‘’I don’t know how I’d survive the rest of the day without you.’’

She looked up at him and her eyes began to mist. This was wrong but it felt so good. He broke her walls and shattered every obstacle she’d created and she knew he had her right in his palms. Right now, he could crush her or he could mold her presently.

Josh Riley had the key to her heart and as they lay together, she knew this was just the beginning of something deeper between them.

“tell me about Gavin’s mum.’’ She propped her head on her elbow to be able to look fully into his eyes. His hand slipped away from her back and she was glad for the less distraction. That way, she could realize the truth in time.

“she was a colleague.’’ Was all he said

“and you don’t feel I deserve to know so much more about you and how much you’ve moved on.’’

“I don’t want to fill your head with something that never really happened. It was just a case of two adults fooling around.’’

Scarlett sat up pulling the sheet to her body. ‘’so what are we doing now?’’

Gavin looked at her then, the feeling of trepidation crawling up his spine. Scarlett had come to him whole keeping her word to remain a virgin and he’d taken that from her whereas he didn’t wait. He knew she was bound to ask him how much he’d been faring without her.

“its much more than sex you know that.’’

“so you forgot all about me and moved on.’’ she managed to get the words out though the tears were already stuck in her throat.

He rose to move closer to her. ‘’not for one second did I forget you Scarlett. For a while, I thought I couldn’t do without you. If you know how hurt I felt, how I tried looking for you, how I even came over to your house the day before you moved out and tried to hold you and comfort you, but your parents thought I was the one who had hurt you and wouldn’t even let me get close to you. And then I heard you had gone just like that.’’

“whatever happened between Ashley and I wasn’t meant to. It just happened cos I was trying to move on without you. And then she wanted to get rid of the baby but I couldn’t allow her do that. I felt like I had a responsibility and was gonna stick by it even if she didn’t want to. I got her to sign a contract that she wouldn’t try anything funny in the future against Gavin and she was more than ready. She’s no more in my life.’’

‘what about your new girlfriend?’’

“she can’t even stand a chance in places where you’re concerned.’’

He started to kiss her and she surrendered to him. when he pulled away, it was to smile into her eyes with desire.

“I have something for you.’’ He mumbled against her lips.

She smiled. ‘’really…’’

He stretched his hand to his bed table and snatched the velvet box that lay beside him.

Scarlett’s heart beat wildly in her chest and her eyes widened on full realization of what was about to happen.

“I know I’m meant to plan the perfect proposal for you, being the special woman in my life but I just can’t hold it in anymore.” He opened the box and got down from the bed to get on his knees. ‘’Scarlett Rose Ruby, please do me the honour of being my wife.’’

She covered her mouth and let the tears flow easily. This was what she’d ever dreamed of and it was happening presently.

“I don’t know what to say. It’s all too much for me right now.’’

“I can give you time. I’m a patient man, and I can wait.’’

And she reached for him and kissed him passionately.

“I love you Josh Riley.’’ She managed to say as he rose to join her on the bed once more, forgetting everything else apart from their passion for each other.

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For a while, Scarlett found it difficult to say anything to Gabe but the tension In their relationship was palpable enough to detect that something was wrong and not as before anymore. She kept postponing the date but Josh didn’t mind most especially since they spent almost all their time together and sometimes Gavin joined in the fun, making Scarlett wish he was hers.

Josh dropped hints on how to make that possible and so she knew she most definitely had to tell Gabe.

Most Fridays were spent in his place after their poetry reading at the café or sometimes after dinner. She told him she couldn’t invite him to her place since she didn’t live alone and didn’t want Rea to get mad at her.

“that would be a good idea, y’know.’’ He said jokingly one time when they were in the kitchen together and she’d been preparing dinner for him, wearing only his Shirt.

She cocked her eyebrows. ‘’oh really…’’

He came close and slid his hands around her waist pulling her close nuzzling her neck in the process. ‘’in that way, she’d send you packing and you could come over my place. Then you can answer my proposal question in time.’’

“you’re not gonna give up are you?’’

“I can’t lose you again.’’

She smiled remembering the second surprise he’d given her the night after he proposed to her. He’d come to snatch her away from the house with the pretense that he just wanted to take her out.

But when they drove closer to the harbor, she knew it was much more than a lunch date.

He got down from the car and he urged her to come out and join him.

It was when she stepped out from his car she saw the surprise and gasped, covering her mouth in shock

“oh no!’’

She looked at him and saw him grinning like a boy in love. The boy she’d fallen in love with years ago and looked at the big boat her name was boldly scripted upon.

“The Scarlett.’’

“Josh, this is all too much.’’

He came and pulled her close to his side, kissing her hair. ‘’anything for you baby.’’

They walked into the boat together while Josh greeted the engineers behind the whole ordeal. Their rapport had been so natural and then she saw the captain smiling at her and excusing them as they looked around.

“wanna check out the cabin?’’

She could only nod as he reached for her hand and led her inside closing the door behind him.

“it’s beautiful Josh, I don’t even know what to say’’

“anything to make you make up your mind about marrying me.’’

‘’you’re serious aren’t you?’’ she looked into his eyes then.

He came closer to her and caressed her face with his fingers, raw desire in his eyes. ‘’ I want you to be mine.’’

She swallowed when he traced his fingers on her lips. How in the world did he have so much authority over her this way? ‘’I’m yours already.’’

“we could take time out and set sail on this baby when you’re ready. And then when we get married, we could spend time at my beach house together.’’

‘’hmmmn..’’ she closed her eyes when his lips settled on hers and could do nothing else when he peeled off her clothes.

And now, she couldn’t figure out how many times she’d allowed him into her body and into her life but she didn’t care anymore.

With time, she couldn’t hear her conscience speak again.

She laughed basking in his scent and not wanting him to let go ‘’I’ll give you an answer at the right time and I bet you it wouldn’t be a no.’’

‘’you smell good, delicious in fact.’’ He trailed kisses down her bare shoulders.

“you’re distracting you know that don’t you?’’ she tried to stop him but didn’t succeed and gave up.

The food had gotten burnt with Demi had walked in on them and the look on her face was enough to remind Scarlett of where she’d placed her before she had been reduced to Josh’s bedmate.

One afternoon while he was still away and she was teaching Gavin his lessons, she interrupted rudely and told Gavin to go to the neighbour’s house sweetly while she had a talk with Scarlett alone.

“I don’t need to be a rocket scientist before I know what you’re doing with my nephew.’’ She began looking right into her eyes. ‘’and the fact that you’re sleeping with him without any guilty conscience when you read those stories to Gavin amazes me.’’

Scarlett blushed and tried averting her gaze. The woman knew where to hit her

“I know I don’t have the right to judge you or anything, but I expected so much more from you than this. I trusted you and brought you into my family. I told you everything about us hoping you would work your way into his heart and bring him to Christ but it seems to me like you’re working your way into his bed instead.’’

“Demi…’’

“you’re not the first woman he’s going to have sex with, but for your sake and mine, I hope you qualify being the last cos you’d be losing on both sides.’’

And she was gone.

And for the first time in weeks since she’d been going out with Josh, she began to see what she had been doing and broke into tears.

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When Scarlett started throwing up and feeling queasy, she didn’t know what to pin it to and thought it was probably something she’d eaten and took a sick leave. When she noticed a little awkwardness in her sleeping habit and her irritation for things she normally liked, she grew scared.

Was she suddenly having allergic reactions? That was so odd.

But she suspected it was so much far from allergic reactions when after the second month, her period stopped visiting.

Oh no, this was all too much to bear and she prayed it was something else. Something far from what she suspected could be the reason.

She couldn’t handle another surprise in her life right now while she was still trying to sort her life out.

Rea was suspicious but tried not to show it most especially when Scar didn’t mention anything about herself and Josh, never talked about the weekends she didn’t sleep over, and the reason why he’d brought her home so late at night some weeks ago.

She knew it right from that moment that her friend wasn’t the same anymore and she grew worried for her.

But she decided to go with her to the hospital to confirm her suspicion and look Scar in the eye to start spilling out everything if it was true.

She didn’t know who her friend was anymore. She felt more like a stranger lived in the house with her.

When Scar was told she was six week’s pregnant, she was in shock for a while and didn’t speak. And then she burst into tears after the doctor left the room

Rea did what she could do best. Comfort her.

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For a while, Scarlett was confused and didn’t know what to do or who to tell her predicament to as her wedding day shifted closer and she carried another man’s baby. She’d promised to keep herself till her wedding night but one man had been able to break that resolution and that man had been Josh Riley.

The first guy she’d fallen in love with and the guy who she’d told to wait for her years ago.

He was the same man who had gotten access to her and she’d put her guards down wherever he was concerned.

But now, she carried his baby and he was so ignorant about it and hoped he wouldn’t know anything about it yet, because if he did, she would do as he told her to, most especially now that she didn’t know how to think on her own anymore.

Rea didn’t gloat but tried offering her whatever help she could offer and Scarlett couldn’t be more grateful for a friend like Andrea. She had developed a new relationship with this Mike of a man and he seemed to be a nice man. Rea made him know his limits though and Scarlett knew Rea was far better than her.

She had been so foolish to allow herself to get carried away.

So what if she’d been married to Gabe? She thought. Was this how she was gonna be having an affair with an ungodly man outside marriage? Was this how much she was capable of unfaithfulness? Had she pretended all those 10years to be over Josh whereas, it lurked somewhere in the hidden part of her heart.

She needed time alone and she needed to talk to her mother, but what would she tell her parents who had tried helping her all through her years in college to forget Josh. All the money and love they’d shown her when they moved away from Naperville only to return back to square one

Josh wanting to marry her wasn’t the issue because as much as she loved him and was crazy about him, she wasn’t going to marry him just like that.

But firstly, she knew she had to tell Gabe that they couldn’t go on with the wedding and she was so sorry.

She just hoped she had the courage to tell him at their next outing.


He called for an ambulance and hoped they were not too late by the time they got to the house.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

For a while, Scarlett was confused and didn’t know what to do or who to tell her predicament to as her wedding day shifted closer and she carried another man’s baby. She’d promised to keep herself till her wedding night but one man had been able to break that resolution and that man had been Josh Riley.

The first guy she’d fallen in love with and the guy who she’d told to wait for her years ago.

He was the same man who had gotten access to her and she’d put her guards down wherever he was concerned.

But now, she carried his baby and he was so ignorant about it and hoped he wouldn’t know anything about it yet, because if he did, she would do as he told her to, most especially now that she didn’t know how to think on her own anymore.

Rea didn’t gloat but tried offering her whatever help she could offer and Scarlett couldn’t be more grateful for a friend like Andrea. She had developed a new relationship with this Mike of a man and he seemed to be a nice man. Rea made him know his limits though and Scarlett knew Rea was far better than her.

She had been so foolish to allow herself to get carried away.

So what if she’d been married to Gabe? She thought. Was this how she was gonna be having an affair with an ungodly man outside marriage? Was this how much she was capable of unfaithfulness? Had she pretended all those 10years to be over Josh whereas, it lurked somewhere in the hidden part of her heart.

She needed time alone and she needed to talk to her mother, but what would she tell her parents who had tried helping her all through her years in college to forget Josh. All the money and love they’d shown her when they moved away from Naperville only to return back to square one

Josh wanting to marry her wasn’t the issue because as much as she loved him and was crazy about him, she wasn’t going to marry him just like that.

But firstly, she knew she had to tell Gabe that they couldn’t go on with the wedding and she was so sorry.

She just hoped she had the courage to tell him at their next outing.

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Rea tried as much as possible to look composed when Mike sat beside her and Ryan and Emilia sat opposite them.

This double date wasn’t a good idea but she didn’t want to sound weird to Mike. The poor guy didn’t have any idea about how much she still had feelings for the guy sitting opposite them who looked too good to be true. He wore a black blazer and a tieless shirt inside making her wonder why he didn’t opt for a modeling career. His dirty blonde hair was neatly trimmed and combed while his blue eyes just stood out in his magnificent body.

Who would have known she could still feel this way even after giving her life to Christ.

She had to caution herself and her thoughts or she would have a sleepless night.

His finely chiseled face stared back at her when Mike asked what she would have on the menu and she hoped he would remove her piercing gaze but he didn’t.

Didn’t he mind that Emilia could suspect there was something between them?

“same thing you’re having.’’ She resigned inhaling deeply knowing she wouldn’t enjoy a single bit of this dinner date at all.

The waiter took their orders and Rea shifted closer to Mike, hoping that would make him realize she wasn’t in the mood for eye contact games or footsie either.

The last time they had played footsie, it was at an annual dinner where his uncle had been given a humanitarian award. He’d invited Ryan and Ryan had brought Rea along as his date. And then he knew trouble was brewing when she began teasing him with her toes.

She snapped out of silly thoughts that made her suddenly feel uncomfortable in the restaurant.

Rubbing her palms on her skirt nervously, she tried to focus on something else apart from the distracting figure sitting before her.

‘’so Rea, Mike tells me you went to Evergreen high school.’’ Ryan chiped in with an air of confidence not taking his eyes away from her. ‘’if I do remember clearly, i attended the same school.’’

Rea cocked her eyebrows. He was putting the ball in her court and she wished she could slam it against his face hard! He wanted to play games…, well she was up to it!

“wow!.., you were?’’ she faked a confused look. ‘’and what set was that?’’

‘’same set as yours I believe. Football team’’

“hmmmn, so what role did you play in the football team?’’ she added with spite. ‘’water boy?’’

Mike choked on his water and Rea could only smile when she saw the amused look on her boyfriend’s face, whereas, Ryan’s eyes were filled with anger.

Well, he had started it all in the first place.

“that’s Rea for you, you need an extra pair of sneakers to keep up with her.’’ Mike chipped in still laughing at her previous response to his best friend.

“it’s okay.’’ Ryan’s lips curved into a smile. ‘’I heard you dated someone in the team. You must have known how to pick guys.’’

Emilia’s eyebrows were raised. ‘’why do I think you two know each other so much more than hi and hello?’’

Rea ignored her.

“well, at that time, I didn’t know he was a block head till he proved to be one.’’ Rea smiled at Ryan sweetly and turned to her boyfriend. ‘’you know how it is for a guy to date a bimbo, I guess that’s how it was for me. you never know what you have with you till the true colours start revealing itself.’’

Mike responded. ‘’True’’ And continued proudly. ‘’but my friend here was the hot one in the team. That reminds me, I need to check out your year book. I missed out on so many old friends when I traveled to France.’’

“sure. At least you’ll get to see lots of pictures of my high school years, including the girl I took to Prom.’’ He smiled at Rea

Rea swallowed knowing he had her right where he wanted her. she had been the one he took to Prom, she had been the one he dated in their final year in high school and so many pictures including graduating ones that they had both snapped together.

She still even had the pictures back at home.

She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply jerking from her seat. She couldn’t hold it anymore, neither could she pretend anymore. ‘’you can tell him if you’re up to it, at least you’re best friends, but I can’t.’’ she turned to look at Mike and the tears came down. ‘’I’m sorry. You deserve someone better than me and I don’t think I can stay here one more second pretending everything is okay when it isn’t.’’

She picked her purse and set out to leave the restaurant. She noticed it had begun to rain and didn’t hesitate to step out not caring what was gonna happen to her or if she was getting soaked. She pulled off her four inched sandals and started walking with her bare feet hoping she would get a taxi that would drive her home.

All she wanted to do was go home and cry into her pillow, telling God she had tried all she could but didn’t succeed.

“Rea!’’ she heard her name in the rain but didn’t look back. She just kept on walking

Someone pulled her by the arm and at first instance, she thought it was Mike but her heart raced faster when she saw it was Ryan.

“baby…’’

“just let me go.’’ The rain mixed with her tears and she doubted Ryan noticed how weak and vulnerable she felt right now.

But instead of releasing her, he lowered his lips on hers and she hesitated. When he deepened it and lifted her off her feet, she couldn’t object and surrendered completely to him.

When he broke free, she looked into his blue eyes, his wet hair and the fact that her sandals still dangled in her hands.

“I love you.’’ He mumbled and she could say nothing more when he kissed her again.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

Gabe Morrison looked at Scarlett for what seemed like hours and couldn’t bring himself to mouth any words that wouldn’t hurt her. For seven years, he’d imagined her as the woman of his life. the one who he’d spent his life loving and serving. The one he could go extra miles for even without her asking. The girl who had been an angel the first time he met her. the sweet girl who had told him she was keeping herself for her husband.

That woman was the one who sat on his couch presently, looking like a stranger. Like a LovePeddler who prostituted herself to another man’s fantasies and he hated her so much. All she even had the guts to tell him presently was that she couldn’t go on with the marriage but with everything her colleague dished out to him not to talk of the suspicions he’d had about her ever since she moved back to her hometown, he knew there was so much more.

He’d been stalking her, no doubt and whenever he saw her going out with a particular guy, he turned away knowing he couldn’t bear to watch her rip his heart out.

And then it was worse when she spent the night at his place almost every Friday.

It took him self-control not to strangle her even though she sat crying beside him and begging him that she was sorry.

What would he tell his family and friends? All his college friends and colleagues who’d envied him that he was marrying Scarlett were going to make fun of him and confirm such a loser that He was. His company would offer their pathetic sympathy for his cancelled wedding and he would return to his lonely and miserable life.

He didn’t know when his hand cracked across her face and her body jerked hereby making her land on the floor.

He stood up and reached for her hair while she screamed in tears. “Gabe please, I’m sorry.’’

He hit her again and she struggled to get back to her feet but that was before he pushed her to the floor again but she crawled to the door while he reached for her legs and pulled her underneath him.

“where do you think you’re going huh?!’’ he cried angrily and reached for her blouse. ‘’you think I don’t know how you made yourself a cheap little LovePeddler every Friday night! You think I’m gonna let you go that easily.’’

“Gabe!’’ she screamed fully aware that if he raped her, she would lose her baby. He wouldn’t care less if she mentioned it. in fact, he would most definitely want her to lose the baby with the way his anger took over him

Never had she seen this side of Gabe before

The struggle was intense and when she managed to poke his eyes when he tried covering her mouth, she was able to break free but not for long as she felt her head bang against the door.

And then she sank to the floor unconscious.

“Scarlett?’’ he touched her but she didn’t budge.

“Scar?’’ Gabe grew scared and tapped her face but there was no response. He pulled her close to himself but she didn’t respond. ‘’oh my god!’’ he muttered and hurried over to the phone. ‘’what have I done?’’

He called for an ambulance and hoped they were not too late by the time they got to the house.

EPISODE 15

‘’I never knew you could cook so well.’’ Scarlett praised accepting the glass of red wine hand over to her by Josh while settling unto the couch beside him. in her wildest dreams, she had never suspected Josh as a better cook.

The alarm bells in her head had gone off immediately she decided to come over to his place for dinner.

“so you don’t mind about the change of plans that we’re having dinner at my place?’’

“I like it here.’’

“then why don’t you move In with me?’’

Scar found it hard to swallow. Move in with Josh Riley? He was asking Her to move in with him. this was so against what she believed in.

But hadn’t she permitted it all in the first place? She was the one meant to be pulling him towards God but He was doing a good job moving her away from him

But wasn’t this what she wanted, what she’d dreamed of in the past?

She shook her head. ‘’I cant. Gabe…’’

He looked into her eyes then. ‘’if you loved him, you wouldn’t be here with me.’’

She closed her eyes and felt the conscience prick her again. ‘’I can’t believe I’m doing this with you. I have to go.’’

She stood up immediately and headed for the door when he placed his hands on them making her trapped right under him.

“we’re selfish, and what we’re doing is so wrong. Gavin needs you now more than ever, and I’m his teacher who should be helping him in all ways possible. He loves you so much and that’s all I want to witness. But this thing that happened between us, if we continue like this, it’ll ruin everything.’’

“Gavin loves you…’’

“I know. But I haven’t been living up to my reputation.’’

‘’when are you going to tell Gabe about us?’’

Scarlett’s eyes widened. ‘’us?’’

Josh frowned. ‘’is there no us?’’

“I cant. I’ll break his heart.’’

“and so you’ll rather break mine?’’

“you came late Josh. Right when something could have worked between us, you walked away. Right when you should have stood up for me, you didn’t say a word and right when I was humiliated in high school and expected you to do something, you just acted like you knew nothing.’’ Her eyes were beginning to mist but she didn’t struggle to wipe away the tears when they came strolling down. “and now you tell me you love me when you have a girlfriend and a son and moved on ahead in life. don’t you care that I want to be happy too, that I want to live life too, and life doesn’t revolve around you alone?’’

“baby, I’m so sorry.’’ He tried holding her hands but she broke free. ‘’I would never hurt you and when that thing happened back In high school, I called you, I tried everything I could, I searched for you. I opted out of the football team and forfeited the scholarship all because of you. I felt everything was my fault and I wasn’t myself for days. Your parents wouldn’t even allow me near your house and my parents didn’t make things easier. I never knew what we had was Love till now. I felt it was just my heart playing tricks on me but you are the only woman who has this strange effect on me I can’t explain.’’

“I never knew you opted out of the football team…’’ she felt guilty. Sheila had done all she could to separate them and the kiss they’d shared, she thought he was in all of it.

And she had left hating him and hating herself knowing she would never fall for his type again.

And here he was looking broken and wanting her so badly. Why couldn’t she give herself to him when that was what they both wanted?

He began kissing her tears away and she weakened when his lips finally found hers, claiming them for his own gently at first and then deeply till she broke free for air.

She knew the wine had little or nothing to do with the way she was feeling presently

“we cant do this here, Gavin…’’ she managed to say before she went into his arms willingly.

He was strong enough to carry her upstairs.

Two hours later, Josh lay exhausted beside Scarlett and kissed her firmly on the lips. She didn’t resist this time but rested her head and her hands on his bare chest loving how solid he felt against her.

“I don’t know what you’re doing to me Scarlett, but you’ve got me falling head over heels for you.’’ He played with her hair absent mindedly. ‘’I don’t know how I’d survive the rest of the day without you.’’

She looked up at him and her eyes began to mist. This was wrong but it felt so good. He broke her walls and shattered every obstacle she’d created and she knew he had her right in his palms. Right now, he could crush her or he could mold her presently.

Josh Riley had the key to her heart and as they lay together, she knew this was just the beginning of something deeper between them.

“tell me about Gavin’s mum.’’ She propped her head on her elbow to be able to look fully into his eyes. His hand slipped away from her back and she was glad for the less distraction. That way, she could realize the truth in time.

“she was a colleague.’’ Was all he said

“and you don’t feel I deserve to know so much more about you and how much you’ve moved on.’’

“I don’t want to fill your head with something that never really happened. It was just a case of two adults fooling around.’’

Scarlett sat up pulling the sheet to her body. ‘’so what are we doing now?’’

Gavin looked at her then, the feeling of trepidation crawling up his spine. Scarlett had come to him whole keeping her word to remain a virgin and he’d taken that from her whereas he didn’t wait. He knew she was bound to ask him how much he’d been faring without her.

“its much more than sex you know that.’’

“so you forgot all about me and moved on.’’ she managed to get the words out though the tears were already stuck in her throat.

He rose to move closer to her. ‘’not for one second did I forget you Scarlett. For a while, I thought I couldn’t do without you. If you know how hurt I felt, how I tried looking for you, how I even came over to your house the day before you moved out and tried to hold you and comfort you, but your parents thought I was the one who had hurt you and wouldn’t even let me get close to you. And then I heard you had gone just like that.’’

“whatever happened between Ashley and I wasn’t meant to. It just happened cos I was trying to move on without you. And then she wanted to get rid of the baby but I couldn’t allow her do that. I felt like I had a responsibility and was gonna stick by it even if she didn’t want to. I got her to sign a contract that she wouldn’t try anything funny in the future against Gavin and she was more than ready. She’s no more in my life.’’

‘what about your new girlfriend?’’

“she can’t even stand a chance in places where you’re concerned.’’

He started to kiss her and she surrendered to him. when he pulled away, it was to smile into her eyes with desire.

“I have something for you.’’ He mumbled against her lips.

She smiled. ‘’really…’’

He stretched his hand to his bed table and snatched the velvet box that lay beside him.

Scarlett’s heart beat wildly in her chest and her eyes widened on full realization of what was about to happen.

“I know I’m meant to plan the perfect proposal for you, being the special woman in my life but I just can’t hold it in anymore.” He opened the box and got down from the bed to get on his knees. ‘’Scarlett Rose Ruby, please do me the honour of being my wife.’’

She covered her mouth and let the tears flow easily. This was what she’d ever dreamed of and it was happening presently.

“I don’t know what to say. It’s all too much for me right now.’’

“I can give you time. I’m a patient man, and I can wait.’’

And she reached for him and kissed him passionately.

“I love you Josh Riley.’’ She managed to say as he rose to join her on the bed once more, forgetting everything else apart from their passion for each other.

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For a while, Scarlett found it difficult to say anything to Gabe but the tension In their relationship was palpable enough to detect that something was wrong and not as before anymore. She kept postponing the date but Josh didn’t mind most especially since they spent almost all their time together and sometimes Gavin joined in the fun, making Scarlett wish he was hers.

Josh dropped hints on how to make that possible and so she knew she most definitely had to tell Gabe.

Most Fridays were spent in his place after their poetry reading at the café or sometimes after dinner. She told him she couldn’t invite him to her place since she didn’t live alone and didn’t want Rea to get mad at her.

“that would be a good idea, y’know.’’ He said jokingly one time when they were in the kitchen together and she’d been preparing dinner for him, wearing only his Shirt.

She cocked her eyebrows. ‘’oh really…’’

He came close and slid his hands around her waist pulling her close nuzzling her neck in the process. ‘’in that way, she’d send you packing and you could come over my place. Then you can answer my proposal question in time.’’

“you’re not gonna give up are you?’’

“I can’t lose you again.’’

She smiled remembering the second surprise he’d given her the night after he proposed to her. He’d come to snatch her away from the house with the pretense that he just wanted to take her out.

But when they drove closer to the harbor, she knew it was much more than a lunch date.

He got down from the car and he urged her to come out and join him.

It was when she stepped out from his car she saw the surprise and gasped, covering her mouth in shock

“oh no!’’

She looked at him and saw him grinning like a boy in love. The boy she’d fallen in love with years ago and looked at the big boat her name was boldly scripted upon.

“The Scarlett.’’

“Josh, this is all too much.’’

He came and pulled her close to his side, kissing her hair. ‘’anything for you baby.’’

They walked into the boat together while Josh greeted the engineers behind the whole ordeal. Their rapport had been so natural and then she saw the captain smiling at her and excusing them as they looked around.

“wanna check out the cabin?’’

She could only nod as he reached for her hand and led her inside closing the door behind him.

“it’s beautiful Josh, I don’t even know what to say’’

“anything to make you make up your mind about marrying me.’’

‘’you’re serious aren’t you?’’ she looked into his eyes then.

He came closer to her and caressed her face with his fingers, raw desire in his eyes. ‘’ I want you to be mine.’’

She swallowed when he traced his fingers on her lips. How in the world did he have so much authority over her this way? ‘’I’m yours already.’’

“we could take time out and set sail on this baby when you’re ready. And then when we get married, we could spend time at my beach house together.’’

‘’hmmmn..’’ she closed her eyes when his lips settled on hers and could do nothing else when he peeled off her clothes.

And now, she couldn’t figure out how many times she’d allowed him into her body and into her life but she didn’t care anymore.

With time, she couldn’t hear her conscience speak again.

She laughed basking in his scent and not wanting him to let go ‘’I’ll give you an answer at the right time and I bet you it wouldn’t be a no.’’

‘’you smell good, delicious in fact.’’ He trailed kisses down her bare shoulders.

“you’re distracting you know that don’t you?’’ she tried to stop him but didn’t succeed and gave up.

The food had gotten burnt with Demi had walked in on them and the look on her face was enough to remind Scarlett of where she’d placed her before she had been reduced to Josh’s bedmate.

One afternoon while he was still away and she was teaching Gavin his lessons, she interrupted rudely and told Gavin to go to the neighbour’s house sweetly while she had a talk with Scarlett alone.

“I don’t need to be a rocket scientist before I know what you’re doing with my nephew.’’ She began looking right into her eyes. ‘’and the fact that you’re sleeping with him without any guilty conscience when you read those stories to Gavin amazes me.’’

Scarlett blushed and tried averting her gaze. The woman knew where to hit her

“I know I don’t have the right to judge you or anything, but I expected so much more from you than this. I trusted you and brought you into my family. I told you everything about us hoping you would work your way into his heart and bring him to Christ but it seems to me like you’re working your way into his bed instead.’’

“Demi…’’

“you’re not the first woman he’s going to have sex with, but for your sake and mine, I hope you qualify being the last cos you’d be losing on both sides.’’

And she was gone.

And for the first time in weeks since she’d been going out with Josh, she began to see what she had been doing and broke into tears.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

When Scarlett started throwing up and feeling queasy, she didn’t know what to pin it to and thought it was probably something she’d eaten and took a sick leave. When she noticed a little awkwardness in her sleeping habit and her irritation for things she normally liked, she grew scared.

Was she suddenly having allergic reactions? That was so odd.

But she suspected it was so much far from allergic reactions when after the second month, her period stopped visiting.

Oh no, this was all too much to bear and she prayed it was something else. Something far from what she suspected could be the reason.

She couldn’t handle another surprise in her life right now while she was still trying to sort her life out.

Rea was suspicious but tried not to show it most especially when Scar didn’t mention anything about herself and Josh, never talked about the weekends she didn’t sleep over, and the reason why he’d brought her home so late at night some weeks ago.

She knew it right from that moment that her friend wasn’t the same anymore and she grew worried for her.

But she decided to go with her to the hospital to confirm her suspicion and look Scar in the eye to start spilling out everything if it was true.

She didn’t know who her friend was anymore. She felt more like a stranger lived in the house with her.

When Scar was told she was six week’s pregnant, she was in shock for a while and didn’t speak. And then she burst into tears after the doctor left the room

Rea did what she could do best. Comfort her.

what set?..

i can see my sis is lighting up nairaland with her stories. please o i am her manager ooo. incase anybody wants to sign her up..

RAPMAN02: ijebu ode garmmar school

UP JOGS..

noed sir.. thanks.. should update today?.. what do you think so far?.

@neduzz.. we dey oo.. trying to update.. rounding up the story.. though

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When Scarlett woke up and found herself in a large bedroom, her gaze went to her body and she heaved a sigh of relief when she realized her clothes were still on.

Just as she was about to start wondering how she was going to hurry off to work this morning since she’d slept off in someone’s bedroom and picking her phone, she saw like six missed calls. Three from Gabe and the rest from Rea.

She just hoped things wouldn’t get more complicated than it already was.

Just then, Demi walked in. ‘’Good morning honey.’’

“hey.’’ She managed

“i came to drop some clothes for you that you can try on to work this morning.’’ The older woman beamed and dropped some neat clothes that were on a hanger on the bed. “why don’t you hurry up and take a shower, you must be hungry since you didn’t eat last night.’’

“famished.’’

“I have a healthy and huge breakfast prepared for three so I’ll be expecting you soon.’’

“thank you Demi, you don’t know how much I’m grateful for all of this.’’

“I’m more grateful for you coming into our lives.’’

And then she was gone.

Scarlett hurried into the bathroom and cleaned up, was glad for the hair dryer but could only tie her hair and not straighten it as she did every morning. Her hair was getting longer and she mused over cutting it or leaving it to grow further.

When she got downstairs, she found Josh at the table looking so formal and handsome in grey suit and pants with a black tie knotted neatly. She wondered how he was able to fit his body frame into the neat suit and was unaware of his gaze on her till she looked up into his eyes.

Blushing that she had been caught, she tried to cover up by asking, ‘’How’s Gavin?’’

“he’s better. Demi’s carried his breakfast to his room this morning. He won’t be able to make it to school today.’’

“Its okay.’’ She settled down to coffee first and tried as much as possible to concentrate on her food without feeling awkward which seemed kind of impossible anyway most especially when she had slept in a man’s house, not just an ordinary man but someone she’d been intimate with some weeks ago.

“I can drop you at work…’’

“no thanks.’’ She objected immediately and the dinning remained silent again but that was before Josh stood up, obviously through with his breakfast and lifted his briefcase and ipad in his right hand and walked towards her.

For a while, she held her breath when she realized he was standing right before her, looking intently at her face while she tried as much as possible to avoid his gaze.

“you don’t have to fight it y’know.’’ His finger went to her face and strolled down. Just that simple action made her almost choke on her coffee.

“Josh….’’ She swallowed closing her eyes

“let’s have dinner tonight. I know a great place.’’

She breathed. ‘’you’re not making this easy for me.’’

He continued like she wasn’t saying anything. ‘’I’ve always wanted to treat you to dinner. Just the both of us with candlelight’’

“Gavin needs me.’’

“Demi will take care of things.’’ He bent to kiss her on the lips and she didn’t object. “you look great even without your make-up’’

She blushed again, her heart beating wildly in her chest while her flames were on fire. ‘’please don’t do this to me.’’

“you don’t know what you do to me when you tell me you don’t want me.’’ he kissed her again and she responded fully this time holding unto him without any form of resistance.

He released her reluctantly. ‘’tonight. i’ll call you.’’

She nodded realizing he didn’t want to leave her in a hurry and quickly grabbed her bag

“I love you.’’ He mumbled before turning to leave finally.

She didn’t have the courage to respond to that.

When Scarlett tried as much as possible to bring in self-control, she found it hard to and just wanted to feel Josh again and so automatically shut off all warnings that surfaced whenever she thought about their passionate kiss this morning.

It was break time and she was about eating lunch when her phone rang.

Oh no! it was Gabe

She couldn’t believe she hadn’t thought of him all day. Wasn’t this the man she was getting married to in a few month’s time?

She inhaled deeply before picking. ‘’Gabe…I’m so sorry.’’

“where have you been and what’s going on?’’

“you don’t know how sorry I am. Something came up yesterday and I just forgot about calling you…’’ she didn’t know what else to say and she realized to get out of this, she might have to lie

Oh goodness! Was this how it all started, from one sin to another?

“I’ll see you tonight…’’

“I cant. I have to see a child’s parent.’’ She felt filthy. If only he knew what she was going to do tonight, which was much more than conversation.

“what for? I thought that was what you were doing the other time we couldn’t see each other?’’

“its so much more Gabe. I’ll explain everything tomorrow evening over dinner okay. Right now I cant say much.’’

“ok. I’ll wait. Hope you’ve been good?’’

“yea. I’m okay. I just get busy sometimes.’’

“tomorrow.’’

“yea.’’

He hesitated before saying. ‘’I love you.’’ And then she realized she was the one who usually cooed those words first before he replied the same way.

“you too.’’ Was all she could say. She couldn’t just bring herself to

EPISODE 14

“you look great.’’ Mike praised when he saw Rea coming towards him while he dropped what he was doing and went over to greet her with a kiss. “and nice dress too’’

“thanks.’’ She greeted glad that Mike liked the simple white dress with large flower prints like spring she had thrown on today.

It had been a while she wore it and she appreciated the fact that the dress didn’t reveal any thigh or exposed cleavage.

She wasn’t going to dangle a bone in his eyes and stop him if he raged. She wasn’t ready for that phase of life yet till marriage.

She held his hand and followed him to greet his friends that hung around helping themselves to a bottle of beer and fed on their barbeque and returned the smile they extended her way. She tried to make light conversation and laughed when something funny was said.

At the corner of her eye, she could see Mike was happy and she was glad.

Mike’s place was large no doubt and the back of the house where the whole party was going on was enough to contain all his friends including the ones he wasn’t very close to.

Rea sat talking with his friend’s girlfriend and was hoping the girl would just keep talking. The girl was like a reporter and a journalist at the same time and she just kept chatting and talking about everything. “how long have you known Mike?’’

“like two months.’’

“Wow. Mike talks about you two like you’ve been going out for a year. He’s an amazing guy.’’

“thanks.’’

“so what do you do for a living?’’

“I’m an accountant.’’

“that’s great. I’m a chef. i have my own restaurant downtown and you could stop by sometime.’’

“okay.’’

Mike came up to her and she was glad for the interruption and quickly clung to him trying a much as possible to leave politely.

“I want you to meet a friend. A childhood friend actually. We went to the same elementary school together but split ways when my parents moved to France.’’

“really.’’

“yeah. He’s a hot one, Played football in high school. Was strong enough not to let his parents decide his career over football.’’ He laughed.

Rea smiled and hoped she didn’t come in contact with another chatterbox like the one she had just broken free from.

She gulped when she came in contact with Mike’s childhood friend.

Oh no!! this cant be happening!

“Andrea, meet my childhood friend Ryan Riverstone, Ryan, meet Andrea, my girlfriend.’’

Ryan in turn was shocked but did a good job of hiding it so well he extended his hand immediately. “nice to meet you Rea.’’

“same here.’’ Their handshake was very brief and she was glad.

He almost forgot to introduce his girlfriend. ‘’and this is Emilia, my girlfriend.’’

“nice to meet you Emilia.’’ She extended her hand and the lady received it with a beam. ‘’it’s so good to finally see you. Mike talks about you like almost all the time.’’

Rea looked at Mike with a smile. ‘’really, and what have you been saying about me Mr. Bailey?’’

“nothing that isn’t true. The most beautiful woman I’ve ever met, my one and only and the girl who brings sunshine into my life but drives me crazy all the same.’’

“Mike.’’ She nudged him playfully glad that he made the atmosphere less tense with his teasing.

“what?’’

“never mind.’’ She shook her head and tried to sound as casual as possible. ‘’I’ll go get something to drink. Do you guys want anything?’’

“Let me come with you.’’ Emilia chipped in.

“okay.’’ Rea shrugged.

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Ryan stared at Rea till her back faded from sight and was glad he hadn’t been caught. Mike probably thought he was staring at Emilia when he spoke. ‘’You really like her don’t you?’’

Ryan’s heart thudded in his chest initially thinking her had been talking about Rea when he realized quite the opposite.

“she’s a great person.’’ Was all he had the strength to say.

Mike smiled and continued turning the piece of meat on the grill while Ryan talked.

“so, how long have you two known each other?’’

“just two months and they’ve been the amazing months in my life ever since I returned from France.’’

Ryan felt a sharp pain by the left side of his chest which he knew wasn’t medically related. He really wanted her but he just couldn’t. He had to keep telling himself that.

And that dress she had worn.., it fitted so perfectly against her body reminding him of their first night together. she had worn something like that. Like she had known what was going to happen between them and he just loved seeing her in a dress. That was a weakness for him.

“cool.’’ He hoped he wouldn’t choke on his piece of meat.

Mike looked at him then. ‘’you’re the only one I trust with stuffs like this and I haven’t told the other guys yet. Andrea is a Christian like you too, and she believes in this “no-sex’’ thing before marriage so we haven’t gone there yet just so you know.’’

Ryan didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at such news and he hugged his friend out of excitement.

“hey!..y’kay man?’’

“sure.., I’m just happy to hear about her decision.’’

Mike looked at his friend like he had gone crazy but shrugged. ‘’well, I just hope I’m strong enough to wait that long. I mean I can tell she’s hot y’know, and she’s got this spunk I know she won’t be missing when we have sex but I just have to be patient.’’

Ryan swallowed hard wishing Mike hadn’t just said those words to him. The guy wasn’t a Christian so how will he understand her reason for not sleeping with any man before marriage.

They had broken that rule in the past when they were young and ignorant but now they knew better, they had to stay away from such invitation.

‘So Rea was a Christian’ was all he could think about while Mike continued talking but he was oblivious to all that he was saying.

Mike broke into his thoughts. ‘Hey man’’

Ryan turned his attention to him

“you haven’t said anything all this while.’’

The only thing he could ask was, ‘’so how serious are the both of you?’’

“we’re thinking of taking it to the next level. I mean we both have past relationships but we’ve decided to move on.’’ he shrugged and smiled at his friend. ‘’the guy who broke up with her didn’t know what he had or he’d have kept her. I mean she won’t even talk about it. imagine her protecting him till this moment. She’s not like one of those bitter women who keep ranting about their ex and how he was so unfair or the things they did together and all the crap that has to go with it. I think Rea is my kinda woman Ryan.’’

“wow’’

Mike smiled. ‘’yea, I know. Wow.’’ He laughed revealing perfect set of white teeth and asked. ‘’so how have you been holding up with work over here? Think it’s better than Texas?’’

“it’s okay. And environmental friendly too.’’

“how’s mum and Dad, do you still hear from them?’’

“yea, occasionally though.’’

“I should stop by someday and say hi.’’

“yea, you should.’’

“I’ll be right back, I think I need to use the men’s’’

“no problem.’’

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When Ryan stepped out of the men’s and headed into the living room, he came in contact with Rea in the kitchen who was trying to get two bottles of beer out of the fridge while helping herself to a can of coke and ice in a small glass cup.

He wondered where Emilia was.

“hi’’

She turned to look at him and her facial expression remained the same. ‘’hi. I’m sorry I’m taking long with your drinks. I just had to calm down before returning outside. I couldn’t just come back outside pretending everything is okay between us.’’

“it’s okay.’’

She downed the whole class of coke appreciating the caffeine content that was going to keep her alert in situations like this and not stupidly drunk like the other night and sighed. ‘’much better.’’

She passed him two bottles of Heineken. ‘’yours and Mike.’’

“I don’t drink anymore.’’

‘okay.’’ She burped and dropped the bottles on the counter. ‘’I’ve had two bottles of coke.’’ She laughed over her silly attitude and covered her mouth. ‘’sorry about that.’’

He laughed. Nothing she did surprised him. they’d been going out for almost seven years and she could fart or burp in his presence without him being perturbed about it.

“so what happened? You got addicted?’’

“no, I’m a Christian now.’’

She froze.

“you don’t mean what you just said do you?’’

“I do.’’

‘’wow, that’s an icing on the cake.’’ Her voice dripped with sarcasm when she responded. Christians didn’t behave in the way he did, neither did they just dump their old girlfriends without a good explanation.

or was that the excuse he was trying to give for dumping her? she was going to find out.

“how long have you been a Christian?’’

‘’about four years ago.’’

She was right after all.

‘’Rea…, I’m sorry…’ he began but she raised her hand to stop him from explaining further.

“you don’t have to apologize for anything.’’ She choked out and the tears were already in her eyes. ‘’neither do you have to explain the reason why I got dumped over the phone. It just made me realize my worth to you.’’

“Rea, please.’’

She shook her head and she closed her eyes in order to let the tears return back to their source. She wasn’t going to cry before him. She couldn’t and wouldn’t.

By the time she opened her eyes, he was already standing in front of her and though she tried to move away from his towering presence, she was trapped between him and the counter and when he touched her, she could only shiver.

It was like something dead had risen again. How and Where it had been, she couldn’t say but she hated that she couldn’t control her feelings for him or her body couldn’t say no to him.

‘’Andrea..’’ he whispered and she looked up into his eyes. They looked so blue and dark reminding her of the deep blue ocean and she weakened.

“I miss you.’’

She swallowed.

“It was immature of me to do what I did to you. I know I should have come over to explain everything. Talk to you about my new found faith and try to show you the beauty of what I believed in but I didn’t. I just acted like a stupid child and called you over the phone telling you it was over afraid that if I set eyes on you again, I might just forget everything and kiss you.’’

“you should have talked to me. I was your best friend not just your girlfriend.’’

“I’m sorry. I couldn’t bear to see the look on your face when I told you. I was afraid you might bring me down in some sort of way and I did forget what I had. I just needed some time alone.’’

“What about Emilia?’’

“we started going out some months ago, but its not like what we had.’’

Someone strolled into the kitchen and they separated from each other. Rea returned a bottle of Heineken back into the fridge and gave him the other one. ‘’do me a favor and hand this over to Mike, I’m not strong enough to face him now.’’

He bit his lip and Rea could tell he was disappointed at her response. Well what else did he expect from her? He didn’t expect her to just give in to him so easily after his whole speech of repentance.

She was human too, and she had to think about what she wanted. He hadn’t even proposed anything to her.

He had just said he was sorry, nothing about wanting her back.

She wasn’t going to jump into conclusions just yet.

If she really still meant that much to him, he would do all he could to get her.

And she would move on.

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When Demi announced over the phone that Gavin had fallen ill, Scarlett panicked but tried to be focused till she was through for the day and hurried over to the house just to see him.

When she saw the pale looking figure on the bed, her heart melted and she went up to him while he slept and the doctor talked to Josh.

For a while, she said nothing and just stared at him and watched him sleep till he blinked his eyes open and saw her.

His lips curved into a smile slowly and he looked at her. ‘’Miss Ruby…’’ he managed

“shhh…” she hushed him and dabbed his forehead with a damp towel since his fever was breaking already. “you’re gonna be fine honey. Just relax.’’

‘’I’m so glad you came to see me.’’ he ignored her warnings

“me too.’’

‘’will you stay here with me, Daddy’s been here all day and He’s been such a bore.’’

Not thinking, she laughed. ‘’of course I will. I’m not going anywhere.’’

And she kept her word.

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“Demi made something for you. You have to eat something.’’ Josh persisted when Scarlett refused to eat anything and still watched after Gavin.

“I feel its my fault.’’ She sighed exhaustively. ‘’I shouldn’t have stopped his classes.’’

“its just a fever and a cough sweetheart, its something kids are bound to have when they roll with other kids.’’

“he looked really bad.’’

“well, that’s Gavin for you. His body has a way of exaggerating things.’’

“and that doesn’t bother you?’’ Scarlett looked up

“the doctor says He’ll be fine and so I believe he’ll be fine.’’ He said in a firm tone and stretched his hands towards her so that she would take it and rise.

She slowly did so and Josh could tell she was worn out.

“I’ll get you something to eat while Demi watches over him tonight okay?’’

“it’s late.’’ She yawned and settled into the couch while Josh headed into the kitchen to get her something to eat.

By the time he returned, she was already fast asleep in his living room. Setting the tray down he knelt down to look at her for a while wishing she wasn’t as stubborn she proved to be.

She looked so beautiful and much more vulnerable when she slept, just like the last time he’d observed her sleeping beside him.

He removed her shoes and lifted her from the chair and upstairs into the guest room and covered her with a duvet.

After admiring her once again, he closed the door behind him and headed for the stairs.

He still had so much work to do.

say those words to him anymore

EPISODE 13




Rea was beginning to enjoy her new relationship that was just starting to bloom just after four weeks. It wasn’t the perfect relationship and she would have wanted more but she was content with what she had presently. He wasn’t the perfect guy either and he wasn’t as handsome as Ryan had been, but he was amazing in his own way. He was a liberal guy. He wasn’t a Christian but he respected her views and told her he didn’t mind at all, even her decision not to have sex yet even though they were adults in a relationship. He was funny, had an amazing accent proving he’d spent most of his life growing up in France but his English was wonderful.

He took her on dates, spoiled her with gifts, called and sent her texts , dropped her off at home after dinner dates and confessed to her how much he liked her spunk and her sense of humor.

What else could a girl wish for?

She was very grateful to God that she could move on, and Sue for setting her up with a rare guy like Mike who liked her for the idiot that she was.

He made her forget about Ryan…, or was she the one trying so hard to make herself forget about Ryan?

But something else nudged at her heart and she knew it wasn’t God’s will for her to just move so fast with Mike. It was like she wanted to take the bull by the horns and help God out. Ever since her growing relationship with God, she had come to realize that most things didn’t work that way and surrender was important.

But how long was she going to keep waiting while God kept silent

The next day when Mike suggested they go for a stroll, Rea didn’t hesitate and took her jacket along with her trying not to remember nights upon nights when she loved snuggling in Ryan’s jacket that carried his scent. she would pull it so close to herself and after the night was far spent with eating, laughing and talking, she would cuddle up to him and allow him whisper into her ears while he played with her hair. Sometimes, if they didn’t make love, they would share intimate kisses and embrace each other talking about college life and the challenges they faced.

She shook her head of those thoughts that made her feel filthy and guilty and smiled when Mike kissed her briefly on the lips before finally heading out.

She hoped the work would do her good. She accused Scarlett whereas; she was still secretly hurting inside.

For crying out loud, it was already three years they’d gone their separate ways, although now, he seemed to have found way back into town to taunt her with his new relationship status.

“God help me.’’ she prayed and wish she could really understand everything that was going on In her life.

She noticed Mike was quiet as well and asked. “You okay?’’

He nodded.

“You don’t look okay to me.’’

He stopped to look at her then and touched her cheeks slightly. ‘’you’re beautiful do you know that?’’

Rea scoffed. ‘’well, Yea! I know that…, but that’s not gonna make me forget the real question I asked.’’

He laughed and took her hand in his, raising it to his lips.

“there’s something I want to confirm from you before we move on and I really need to know where I stand.’’

“okay.’’

“I feel you’re holding out on me’’

Rea was quiet.

“you don’t like talking about your last relationship and I feel you’re still in love with your ex-boyfriend’’

“no, I’m not. It’s been three years anyway.’’ She laughed nervously.

“I just want to tell you that I’m ready to listen to you if you wanna talk about it. I want to take this relationship to a whole new level and I really need to know where I stand.’’

“He broke up with me. the only thing that matters is that he had his reasons and I cant crucify him for it.’’ she tried to sound non nonchalant and shrugged. ”He was my first and we dated for about 6 and a half years. It wasn’t easy for me but I survived.’’

Mike smiled and squeezed her hand. ‘’I love your honesty and the fact that you’re not so bitter about it.’’

“well, he wanted it to end and I couldn’t object neither did I want to be his stalker. I’m getting too old for stuffs like that don’t you think.’’

“I can tell you liked him a lot.’’

Rea got frustrated. ‘’look Mike!.i don’t understand this whole talk about my ex and me. it just doesn’t add up. I’ve been going out with you and its not like I ever discussed about him…, okay.., except for that time in the bar when I got drunk and I apologized. I didn’t know what I was doing. But right now, I’ve made a choice that I wanna be with you and that settles it.’’

“okay…, I’m sorry.’’ He raised his hands in surrender.

“its okay.’’

“I’m having a barbeque party tomorrow night. Would love to introduce you to my friends. would you be up to it?’’

She blinked. ‘’why not?’’

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When Scar finished with Gavin’s lesson, it was already evening. 6pm in fact and she knew she had to leave immediately since Josh was home today. It was Friday night and so Gavin kept telling his father today was the slumber party at his friend’s house and he most definitely wanted to go early.

And so Demi had packed his things while Josh insisted He wanted to have a word with Scar before she left.

“will you take anything?’’ he began heading to the fridge. ‘’I have loads of Juice and lemonade if you want..’’

“no thanks.’’ She smiled knowing he was trying as much as possible to make her feel comfortable by not offering her any type of beer or wine.

“look…’’ he faced her squarely this time around. ‘’I know we began on the wrong foot and I apologize and you don’t need to stop being angry at me if you wanna, but please, for Gavin’s sake, lets put the past behind us okay.’’

She nodded slowly. ‘’okay.’’

“Good. So what will you have?’’

“a glass of ice tea would do.’’

“Coming right up.’’ he smiled at her and her heart did the galloping effect again. “so, how have you been holding up with my son?’’

“He’s an intelligent kid, I must say. Sometimes I get scared he might even out run Me.’’ her laughter reached her eyes and it was at that moment Josh knew she loved the boy. “he has a beautiful soul and even if he tries to hide it sometimes by playing tough, it’s still obvious.’’

“You can guess who he got that from.’’ Josh winked at her but she lowered her head once more as if afraid that his eyes always did a good job of exposing her true feelings for him which was still there in one side of her heart and she had never begun to realize it till now.

“I saw a piano in the living room the first day I came over here.’’ She decided to change the topic. ‘’do you play?’’

‘’sometimes.’’ He gestured towards the living room. ‘’you wanna try?.., I could learn a few notes from you”

She laughed and received the glass of ice tea from him while heading to the living room together. he went over to open the instrument and told her to settle

Soon they were sitting together and Josh watched her running her hands on the instrument smoothly that he wondered if she had been doing this for a long time.

Well, who knew, ten years was a pretty long time.

And then he suggested they play together and their rhythm flowed simultaneously and Josh had never felt happy all his life. here was a woman who knew not only the right keys on his piano but she knew the right keys to his heart and yet didn’t want him because she was getting married to someone else in about four months’ time.

They stopped at the same time and Scarlett giggled and her shoulders sagged in resignation revealing their time together was over and she was bound to leave.

He could sense part of her wanted to stay.

The mistake she made was looking into his eyes. ‘’I have to go. It’s getting late.’’

“yea.’’ He swallowed. ‘’you should.’’

But neither of them moved.

And then before she could say anything further, he was already kissing her and she didn’t object. His hands went to her dress and she broke free.

“Josh..’’ she swallowed. ‘’please…’’

But he was too blind to notice how much she resisted him and he kissed her again.

‘’what about Gavin or Demi…’’ she continued when he began nuzzling her neck and she felt she would melt if he continued. Her hands were splayed on his chest and she could feel the strong rhythm of his heart beating profusely the way hers was. Her resistance weakened and she dropped her hands to his side pulling him closer to her.

“they took the back door.’’ Was all he could mumble before his lips found hers again.

“I’m getting married.’’ She managed when she came up for air but gave in to him when he kissed her again and allowed his hands roam over her blouse

“you love me, admit it.’’

“oh Josh….’’ Was all she could mutter when she saw she couldn’t fight their passion anymore.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

When Scarlett opened her eyes, she saw Josh smiling down at her and she smiled back thinking it was a dream.

“hello sunshine.’’

She felt his finger stroll down her cheeks and she realized it was real.

She jerked from the bed and realized she was naked and this was as real as it could get.

“oh no!’’ she shook her head and sat up, covering her face in shame. ‘’this isn’t happening to me.’’

Josh was confused and shifted closer to her underneath the sheets. She didn’t need to ask if he was naked as well.

She could remember fully well what had happened between them.

“hey…, its okay.’’

Scarlett turned and tears had already started streaming down her face. ‘’its not okay Josh. Its so not okay.’’ She tried as much as possible to cover her shame by pulling the sheets around her to prevent him from seeing her again and hurriedly started picking her underwear and her clothing from the floor since they were scattered everywhere.

“Scar…’’

“don’t touch me!’’ she cried when He came close to her and tried to hold her.

“its midnight Scar, where are you going by this time of the day?’’

She didn’t listen to him and hurried into the bathroom to complete her dressing. “just leave me alone.’’

“Scar!, there’s no way I’m letting you out of this house by this time.’’ He knocked on the bathroom door but she obviously ignored him.

“I’m sorry.’’ He resigned. ‘’if it’ll make you feel better, then I’m sorry about everything.’’

After an hour had passed and he was sure she’d cried sore, she came out of the bathroom and sank into the bed.

“it was my first time.’’ She barely spoke but Josh was smart enough to understand what she meant. He’d known it was her first time when they started but they were just too engrossed in each other to stop.

“if it’ll make you feel better, I’ll drive you home.’’ He offered.

She nodded and sniffed turning to pick her bag. He came to hold her and she fell into his arms weakly. ‘’I didn’t bargain for all of this.’’ She sobbed.

“its my fault.’’

“no, it was mine. I’d always dreamed this would be a special night.’’

He cupped her face in his hands then and looked into her eyes. ‘’well, it was for me.’’ And he kissed her tears away. She sighed and released herself when she saw it was of no use and since Josh didn’t understand how she felt.

How could he? She was the one at loss. She was the one who’d claimed to be a Christian and had indulged in pre-marital sex. She was the one who had cheated on Gabe and was having sex with a different man. She was the one who would bear the guilt afterwards if they got married.

And she was the one who had her heart for someone else.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

Scarlett didn’t tell Rea or Sue about what had happened and hoped she could face Gabe.

Rea would gloat that she told her so and she dreaded hearing those words after her friend had warned her about the whole Josh parade. But why did she feel so connected to him in such a strong way? Why did she feel He had her heart right in his hands and he could leave her begging for mercy?

She knew she shouldn’t feel this way but she couldn’t even help herself anymore.

Most importantly, she didn’t know how to face God and so she kept the guilt inside and continued like nothing had happened and still went on dinner and Lunch dates with Gabe.

Josh was proving stubborn and She wished He wouldn’t call her or come over to the school to check on her as she was already getting curious glances from colleagues and a little gossip was passing around that she was dating her student’s father.

Josh understood things like this and stopped coming for a while but Gavin missed his classes most especially now that she informed him she couldn’t take him his classes anymore, be it in school or at home.

Her mind could not contain it. she felt like she had betrayed the kid too. How could she sleep with his father and pretend like everything was okay? How could she even keep teaching the bible stories she did when she wasn’t in right standing with God. The boy saw her as good and loyal which she was far from now that she’d given in to Josh.

Gavin wasn’t happy, no doubt, and although he still did well, Scarlett knew it wasn’t his best. He had even gone as far as asking if she was angry with his father but she would smile briefly, rub his hair and tell him No. He would try making conversation with her but she would look for a way to prevent them from having their usual time together and after a while, the boy was smart enough to notice and kept his distance.

Scarlett felt terrible.

She was through for the day and was on her way to catch the Train when she saw Josh’s car parked outside the school. She pretended she didn’t and hurried off but he caught up with her in time.

“can we talk, please?’’

“there’s nothing to talk about Josh.’’

“please, even if its not for me, but for Gavin. He’s getting worse at home and He feels I’m responsible for everything.’’

Scarlett closed her eyes and sighed. This wasn’t going to be easy for her but she had to be strong.

She finally gave in and headed to his car while they drove to a place far away from school.

He began. ‘’Scar, why are you doing this to me. It’s been weeks and you won’t even pick my call or give me a glance. And you’re taking it out on my son. I thought you were better than this.’’

“you’re right!..’’ she tried to prevent herself from shaking. ‘’I’m not a better person. I’m just a woman who sees it fit to sleep with her student’s father.’’

Josh closed his eyes. ‘’Scar, why do you keep doing this to yourself?’’

“because I’m not meant to feel this way about you.’’ The tears strolled down to her neck. ‘’I’m getting married to someone else…’’

“but you don’t have to marry him.’’ Josh blurted out suddenly reaching for her across the passenger’s seat. ‘’I love you Scarlett. I’ve never stopped loving you and I’d be a fool if I let you go this time.’’

Scarlet could only stare back at him in shock and she was lost for a while before he brought her back to the present. ‘’Scar?’’

“we can’t do this. It’s wrong. So wrong. Our beliefs are different and I feel like I betrayed Gabe.’’ She looked at her palms nervously. “that night, I didn’t know what I was thinking…’’

“but now, you know and you cant deny you love me too.’’

“oh goodness, this is hard.’’ She sighed and closed her eyes and before knew it, Josh was kissing her again. When she didn’t object, he pressed further till it was intense and she broke free again.

“I have to go.’’ She gulped and quickly reached for a Kleenex before stepping out into the street.

Josh could only watch her walk away.

EPISODE 12

Scarlett tried as much as possible to concentrate when Gavin sat opposite her successfully reading the bible story she had selected today for his brief lesson.

He was reading about David and Goliath and he seemed to be enjoying himself as he read and digested the whole story by himself. Two months of this extra lesson was doing him good and he was improving.

He even went as far as drawing images and showing it to her. He drew so many things and colored them. He drew images of her and everything else he could put his hand on that she wondered if the boy was going to be an artist when he grew older

She looked at his hair and noticed his tousled dark hair which made him look so adorable and knew he’d gotten it from Josh but the eyes, that was definitely from his ex-wife or the woman whom he’d had Gavin with.

She tried not to feel jealous that He’d carried on without her and then remembering his kiss again the last time they went out brought about an odd sensation crawling up her belly to her throat and she closed her eyes to shut away the memory of his lips on hers and how she’d wished they would continue in that moment.

It was moments like that she’d dreamed about and that dream had gotten her into trouble years ago in highschool.

She wasn’t going to let it ruin her life again and she was going to pretend like nothing had happened.

If Josh proved uncooperative, she would tell him to his face.

She felt like she’d cheated on Gabe and the thought nudged at her till present. Gabe had kissed her on different occasions, but not a thousand kisses from him could awaken her like Josh’s and she felt terrible that she longed for another man’s kiss whereas her fiancé wasn’t aware of the whole drama.

Maybe she would tell him the truth. Maybe she would tell him about her past and the role Josh had played. Honesty was very vital in a relationship and this relationship was heading to a “Forever” moment between herself and Gabe. She wasn’t going to hold out on him cos he would never hold out on her.

He was a good man and He loved her and she loved him too as well.

“am I interrupting anything?’’ a sonorous voice broke into her thoughts and her heart thudded loudly in her chest. She hoped Gavin wouldn’t hear it.

She had difficulty swallowing Saliva but managed to raise her head to see the intruder which her heart was already aware of subconsciously.

“Dad.’’ The boy beamed and ran to him. it was obvious they had begun patching things up and since His father was not going to sue his teacher or harass her, they had become best buds.

“hiya cowboy.’’ Josh raised the boy to his eye level and returned his excitement by rubbing his hands through his hair.

“hey!’’ he cried and they laughed together. ‘’just because its tousled doesn’t mean you can make it worse.’’

“any chance I get big guy.’’ He looked at Scarlett then. ‘’and I see your english language is getting better by the way.’’

“yeah. Miss Ruby is just the best.’’

He dropped the boy and came towards Scarlett. ‘’hi’’

“hi’’ she tried as much as possible to avoid his gaze but this didn’t stop him from continuous scrutiny.

“I tried calling you but you wouldn’t even pick my call.’’

“I was busy.’’

He cocked an eyebrow. ‘’and I stopped by the house. Luckily for you someone else didn’t want me to see you.’’

“well, I guess that’s the way things have become Mr. Riley.’’

“okay then.’’ He shrugged with an air of confidence, hands in pocket again. ‘’I’ll go straight to the point and settle what I came here for.’’

“okay.’’

“my son won’t be having extra lessons with you anymore.’’

Her heart dropped but she knew there was still another blow she would receive and so prepared herself for his next attack.

He faced Gavin. ‘’hey kid, could you excuse us for a minute. Miss Ruby and I have something we’d like to discuss in private.’’

“k..’’ he shrugged. ‘’but you better make it quick cos I’m getting hungry.’’

Josh laughed briefly and watched his son head to the playground before facing Scarlett again

“the only thing I’ll endure is you coming to my place to take him lessons and you’ll get paid for whatever it is that you do.’’

“excuse me?’’

“that’s the only way I can get you interacting with my son Miss Ruby. If you feel this thing you have with Gavin is that interesting enough to continue indulging yourself with extra curricular activities for his sake, then the ball is in your court.’’

“oh, i see what you’re trying to do Josh and its not going to work.’’

‘oh…now its ‘Josh’….i like that better. It doesn’t make us sound like strangers.’’ He smiled when she rolled her eyes at him and continued. “I’m not pressing Charges Miss Ruby. You should be glad I didn’t.’’

She fumed “and what if I say no?’’

“there are many teachers in Chicago Miss Ruby. The moment you make your decision, that same moment I decide how to get someone else as his lesson teacher and I bet you it won’t be your religious stories she’ll be reading to him.’’

Scarlett’s face turned red but there was nothing she could do. He was setting a trap for her and he knew she would fall for it. he was a lawyer so he must have thought it through and weighed her options.

She knew she could say no and gladly break free from all form of attachments and threats and he would have no right to dictate what he wanted but she thought of Gavin, the boy who had stolen her heart in the past three months she had spent at Sunnydale. The boy whom she saw a bright future in and who was beginning to appreciate God as he read the stories she fed to him daily

And was she going to let an ex-crush take all that away from her?

She was going to prove to him that she was much stronger than he’d estimated her to be.

“okay.’’

Josh raised an eyebrow like he was surprised at her sudden response. ‘’okay you’re in or what?’’

“I’m in.’’

His smile came slowly and his gaze settled on her lips again. ‘’you start tomorrow. I’ll give you the address and when Gavin’s aunt comes over to pick him up from school tomorrow, she’ll come and check on you. I’ll explain everything to her so you’ll have fewer introductions to do.’’

The flames of hatred in her eyes were enough to consume him if they were real but he ignored it and excused himself politely when a call came through.

Scarlett began to wish she had objected.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

Rea brought home Chinese and Scarlett was glad, explaining to her that she had gotten groceries on her way to the house but was too tired to cook.

She headed towards her answering machine as usual and listened to her voice mail messages.

One was from Sue calling her to state she had a minor contraction and how she would be staying at home with Darren for the week now that she was on leave. And then she mentioned “hola Scar’’ making Scarlett smile.

The last message was from Mike and Rea thought she would freeze out of fear.

“hey Andrea, it’s Mike. Just calling to say hi and tell you how I’d like us to go out again sometime, maybe tomorrow night if you’re up to it. I had a great time last night and I hope you have a great day at work today. So, take care.’’

And he was gone.

By the time Rea came back to reality and looked up, Scar was looking at her, mouth agape.

“Don’t know what you got drunk on last night girlfriend but it got that cute guy calling you back.’’ Scar teased and they both giggled before settling into the chair.

‘’are you okay?’’ Rea asked her friend when she saw her eyes looking so far away.

“yeah, why do you ask?’’

“nothing.’’ She shrugged. ‘’it’s just that you hardly share anything with me these days except for the day you kissed Josh. It’s like you don’t trust me or something.’’

“well, I trusted people in the past and look what it got me.’’ she scoffed and stood up to head into the kitchen but Rea didn’t give up.

“but I’m your friend Scarlett, I would never do anything to hurt you.’’

‘’you can say that again.’’ She simply ignored her and opened the fridge to get two bottles of water for the both of them.

“you’re not the only one who got hurt Scarlett, I had my own share of heartbreaks and I’m moving on.’’

“oh really, I can see that.’’ Her voice dripped in sarcasm. “then why in the world will you get drunk over a guy that has moved on with his life. why in the world will you call yourself a Christian and go to a bar to have a drink with a different guy? To me, all I can see is a confused woman and I’m sorry if I sound harsh but you’re not better than I am.’’

Rea felt like she’d been hit with an arrow but she didn’t give up.

“Josh doesn’t deserve you Scarlett. When are you going to realize this and stop this stupid game you’re playing with him.’’

She turned red. ‘’I’m not playing games.’’

“you’re not the only teacher who can take that boy Scarlett. They’re dozens of other teachers he can employ and he’s just trying to set a trap for you.’’

“well, too bad I don’t have my eyes on anyone but Gabe’’

Rea felt like hitting some sense into the girl. She might feel grownup and look it, but she was so far from it. “you think josh doesn’t know you have feelings for him. he knows and he’s trying to take advantage of you once more.’’

“I told him I’m engaged.’’

“a man who is obsessed about a woman or rather a man who sets out to get a girl doesn’t see an engagement ring as an obstacle. I saw him looking at you the day he came over to the house to take you out and believe me those looks could make any girl drop dead at his feet.’’

‘’I’m strong enough.’’

Rea grabbed her by the arm. ‘’you’re not that strong Scarlett and I know what Josh does to you when he looks at you. You were my best friend in high school and I know how hard it took you to get over him.’’

Scarlett jerked free angrily. ‘’and I said I’m strong enough to handle whatever he brings my way.’’

Rea looked at her friend and shook her head trying to hold back the tears. ‘’sometimes I feel I don’t know you anymore. And I don’t want you to do what you’ll end up regretting. I hope you put that in mind. You can’t bring people to Jesus in your own way, but you can stay away and pray for them.’’

And then she headed straight to her room.

Scarlett heard the loud bang of the door and inhaled deeply telling herself she was doing the right thing.

She had to or Rea would be right afterall.

“;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

When Scarlett arrived at Josh’s place, it was all it took for her not to gasp.

His house was awesome and huge and she wondered if Gavin didn’t feel alone when he stayed home since his mother was probably in a different state and didn’t care about his well being

Well that was what she could insinuate from the little bits Gavin had been willing to share with her.

But that was before Demi began rambling about the whole thing and she was amazed she already knew about Josh in a few hours.

He was single, he’d been in a relationship for two years which resulted in Gavin but the girl had dumped him for a richer and older man. Far much older man who basked in wealth and luxury.

She had told him she wasn’t a commitment person initially and he’d agreed to their deal, and then the baby came and she’d kept it because Josh wanted her to. But she’d agreed to go on with her life and have nothing to do with him or the baby. She had gone as far as signing a contract on their agreement and Josh being a lawyer made it easier for the both of them.

Demi still didn’t understand how Josh got involved with a girl like Ashley Brooks but all the same, it was over and she was glad.

Gavin had a family who loved and wanted him although it took him time to begin realizing this truth most especially when his father acted in a way that made him doubt that sometimes.

All Gavin wanted was a father who cared enough to take him out, play games with him and read him bedtime stories but Josh was falling short although he had been trying to improve recently and she was glad for the upcoming change.

Demi confessed that she liked Scarlett and urged her to continue with her bible lessons. Josh wasn’t home and so they had time to talk about so many things and Scar knew she’d found a new friend who shared the same faith with her.

“josh secretly listens to Gavin reading those bible stories when he’s about to sleep. One time I caught him sitting in his son’s room and glancing through his new collection of books and his drawings. Josh couldn’t help but smile when he saw a drawing of his son holding a taller man which he tagged Dad.’’

“that’s beautiful.’’

“he hasn’t done that in a while and Josh was convinced you had a part to play. Gavin has always been a distant kid who was still trying to adapt to me and this whole new environment but was having a difficult time doing so. And then you came and he smiles more often and keeps a tooth under his pillow In faith.’’

Scarlett tried not to cry and further asked. ‘’did you guys just moved back to Naperville too?’’

“yeah, about two years ago. Josh didn’t want to risk his son having to face any form of threat or challenges from his mother since she happened to be living in Boston too.’’

“ohh, I see.’’ Scarlett looked away. ‘’He must really love Gavin.’’

“and since he travelled here more often due to his career, he decided why not get a permanent resident here most especially when he was given a tempting offer that gave him a boost to his career. He had roots here from his parents and grandparents and so what other way to get a kid to bond with nephews, nieces and friends. That’s how he came up with this amazing place.’’

“its wonderful. It looks like those houses built for site-seeing.’’

Demi laughed. ‘’wait till you see his beach house in California. That’s a different world entirely hun.’’ She laughed to herself. ‘’more coffee?’’

“no…, I’ve had enough for one day.’’ Scarlett managed to respond before standing up to pick her bag. This was one of those days she finished Gavin’s lessons in time and had a chitchat with Demi who talked about everything from food to love to Josh.

And it always ended up with Josh.

She was glad he wasn’t home and this was one of those days she felt comfortable to move about the house or talk freely.

When he was home, he made her so conscious of herself and everything around her.

She had seen a beautiful piano in the living room the first day she had entered the house and wished she would play one of these days. How she longed to settle her hands on the keys and produce the music that had been dead within her for years.

Maybe one day after Gavin’s lesson, she would give in

im good, hope youre okay yourself. you should get Episode 12, first thing in the morning.

EPISODE 11.

Scarlett thought she would feel better when she left the house with the intention of taking Bernie for a drive as it was something her dog had come to love. At least, he could stick his head out the window and let his tongue hang out. When she found the perfect spot, she took him for a walk and sat quietly trying to clear her head.

But she found it hard to. Right here in this town and she wondered if it was because the thought of Josh being in the same town with her that scared her so much.

She had given in to him two days ago. What if they had been alone?

How was it possible her blood still stirred when he looked at her, held her or kissed her? how could she still feel something for him after 10years?

‘It was probably her.’ she concluded. She got nervous because he was her first love and he’d even confessed he knew nothing about the whole ordeal back in high school.

Well, she could forgive him but she really had to move on without him breathing down her neck.

She closed her eyes and her daydream betrayed her bringing memories of the passionate kiss they’d shared two days before and how strong he felt against her. How his hands had held her head in place and how her flesh had caught fire as he deepened their kiss.

She remembered his boyish look back in highschool and how she’d adored him and her mind drifted again to “what if”…

What if they had been together till date? Would they be married already with a kid like Gavin, or would she even have the strength to keep herself with the way he handled her?

Her mind drifted further to “if they were married.’’ Vacations they’d spend together, nights they could share together, and kids they would raise together. Conversations they could have together just like old times and how she’d love to rake her hands through his thick dark tousled hair.

She snapped out of her day dream and realized how hot she’d become. Oh no, this wasn’t what she’d come here for. she had come to clear her head but it seemed the memory of Josh haunted her and she found it hard to let go.

Standing up immediately, Bernie’s ears perked up in response and he rose to his feet and found his way into her car, taking his position on the passenger’s seat and waiting for Scarlett to start the engine.

It took a while.

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Rea noticed something about her best friend immediately she came back inside and she wondered if the walk did her any good at all.

“you okay?’’

“yea, sure.’’ She tried to smile. ‘’what’s for lunch?’’

“Sue’s get together party is today. How come you’ve forgotten so soon?’’

“my bad.’’ She tried not to feel embarrassed but a little pink had stained her cheeks. Josh had been the one occupying most of her thoughts for a while now.

Rea’s eyebrows cocked automatically. ‘’it seems to me you didn’t get to clear your head afterall’’

“why do you say that?’’

“you don’t look refreshed to me. you look sort of tight and tense, like you’re trying so hard to put it all together.’’

“I’m fine.’’ She managed

Rea bent low to rub Bernie’s head while the big guy wagged his tail and stuck out his tongue in response.

She looked at her friend again. ‘’He kissed you didn’t he?’’

Scarlett blushed red this time. The way Rea had found out before she told her, she couldn’t decipher it but she knew Bernie couldn’t have been the one to reveal her secret

“I didn’t know how to talk to you about it.’’

“well, here I am Scarlett. Talk to me.’’

She settled unto the couch, her hair already growing back in length and looking so disheveled hereby giving her a childish look.

“we were talking and all of a sudden, I don’t know what happened.’’

Rea was quiet.

“you don’t know how much I wish I could have resisted him but everything was just so overwhelming and I…’’

“its okay.’’

“I feel so ashamed. Gabe would never do that to me and here I am, longing for another man’s kiss.’’

“hey, don’t beat yourself over it. you just have to keep away from him. He’s bad news.’’

Scarlett nodded. ‘’okay. I’ve got to. I know I’ve got to.’’

“but you cant deny you still have feelings for him can you?’’

“I don’t. I think its just the fact that everything is happening all at once and 10years and he’s the first guy I’ve ever fallen in love with, but it’s okay. I can handle it.’’

Rea smiled and hugged her friend. ‘’better. Just know that whatever happens, I’m here for you. We can talk together, pray together and do all sorts of crazy stuff that we did together years ago.’’

Scarlett smiled and released herself. ‘’and you…, what about Ryan? You ready to move on without him?’’

“very much. Sue even tells me she has a cute surprise for me at her parent’s get together.’’ Scar could tell her friend sounded hopeful and she so wanted the best for her.

“let’s hope for the best.’’

L;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

“what is Ryan doing here?’’ Rea squeezed her friend’s fingers in anger that she had excluded this part.

“hey, you’re hurting me!’’

“you didn’t tell me…’’

“well, should I start taking a mental list of names coming forthe little get-together party my parents throw just because my friend Rea is too childish to ignore someone like Ryan?’’

“hey, I’m not childish.’’

“tell that to yourself every morning and I’ll be impressed when you change.’’

“you’re such a pain in the ass!’’

“thank you.’’ Susan smiled sweetly and broke free from Rea’s grip to greet her husband who had been expecting her.

Scar could only smile and beamed when a waiter offered her a finger food on a tray. Sue called out to her and she walked up to the little gathering that she suspected consisted of Her husband, her parents and another young couple.

“Dad, mum, this is Scarlett Ruby. We went to high school together and she’s a counselor and teacher at Sunnydale.’’

“nice to meet you.’’ Mrs Brews gave her a warm hug and kiss on both cheeks before releasing her. ‘’Sue won’t stop talking about you and the amazing things you do with kids.’’

Scar blushed. ‘’oh, its nothing.’’

“and I hope you have been coping well to the environment since you’ve been away for so long?’’ Mr. Brews tried contributing to the conversation.

“yeah, I never got to go round as a kid but now that I have the time,. I can’t wait till school’s session is over so I can get my camera and see places I’ve read about.’’

“wow, such enthusiasm! I love that in a young woman. Sue tells us you’re getting married this Summer. You don’t know how she’s excited to be a wedding planner for your wedding. That’s all she talks about and I wonder if that’s what she feeds her patients.’’

“Mum!’’

“the guy must be a lucky man. Such rare beauty in those eyes.’’ She continued taking her hand and already leading her away for more conversation.

Scar had a feeling this night was going to turn out well after all and couldn’t be more grateful to the two new friends she’d had in just a few weeks she moved to Houston.

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Rea pulled her jacket closer when the wind blew across her face and tried not to feel too much.

Too much thinking made her exhausted and that was the last thing on her to-do list today. She had thought she was going to have a good time and she did, but just a little.

Now she just wanted to be alone.

Most especially when she knew Ryan was in the party and he seemed to be having a good time with the pretty brunette that held unto him like a possession not excluding family and friends while she kept hurting. He would be used to these kinds of gatherings. At least, He had dated Sue in the past and the last time she visited his family, it had been a huge party like this one.

At that moment, she prayed to God to let those feelings of hatred melt and that she just wanted to forgive him and move on with her life.

What would happen to her when Scar finally got married and Sue had a child?..maybe she would move to a smaller apartment, a condo in the busy side of the city where the noise would make her forget about her relationship status and face other part of her life like a job and the rest.

She really needed to move on, and she might move to the city soon most especially if her job permitted her to.

Life was so different from what it had been back in high school. She acting like a boy but loving Ryan like a girl loved a guy. She wanting to have her own way all the time but never really got it.

Even the wish drama didn’t give her chance to, rather it made it worse and Mil had told her making wishes had a price.

The memory of the pretty brunette holding unto Ryan’s arm in the party disrupted her thoughts again and she knew

“hey…’’

Rea jumped at the sudden intrusion of her thoughts and saw a young man strolling towards her but not close to her.

“hi.’’ She pulled the jacket closer.

“it’s pretty cold out here isn’t it?’’

“Yeah, it is.’’ She mumbled and looked away not sure of what to say now that she wasn’t alone anymore.

“I’m Michael Bailey by the way. A friend of the family.’’

“Hello Michael.’’ She forced a smile

“You know you shouldn’t be out here’’

‘’sometimes I like to be alone.’’

“and that excludes me?’’

She shrugged. She was in one of those moods where she got too numb to say anything reasonable and so watched life unfold before her face. Tomorrow morning, she might slap herself that she hadn’t made any move or made nice conversation with the goodlooking stranger standing before her.

So why not give him a chance, who knows, it may lead to something. And if she wasn’t leaving the party now while Ryan was still obviously hanging around, then she had to do things that would take her mind off him

“Sue told me you two attended the same school and I’d need an extra pair of sneakers to keep up with you.’’

So this must be the guy Sue talked about. Good job girlfriend!!

She laughed realizing he was trying to create an atmosphere for the both of them. Wait till she had her hands on the woman!! If not for her present state.

“well, what can I say? It runs in the family.’’ She pulled her hair back behind her ear in the same old fashioned way. “and I have my moods and moments.’’

“and does your present mood mind leaving this place and going someplace else?’’

She sighed and looked around, knowing this was a deliberate invitation for a beginning.

“why not.’’

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When Rea woke up the next morning, she looked disheveled and a recurrent one sided headache nagging at her.

When she glanced at the time, she jerked from the bed and screamed

Oh goodness, this was going to be a bad day.

She hurriedly rushed to the bathroom and took a quick brush and shower and hurried out to glance at her phone. Just as she had predicted, missed calls stared back at her.

She didn’t bother checking Scarlett knowing fully well she would have found her way to school unlike her who had ruined the only chance she had with her new date.

A stupid stupidimmature girl who ruined every chance she had with men.

She was probably going to end up old and alone if she continued like she was competing for a razzy award.

Now she had even ruined her chances with him, she couldn’t hate herself more.

She wondered how she got home in the first place, most definitely, she didn’t drive herself.

And then she had gotten drunk due to everything including Ryan, her life in the past and she wondered how pathetic she would have sounded talking about her Christian life and how she feels bad drinking.First time she drank and her life was getting ruined. Alcohol never did her good and it was never going to do her good in future. She had to keep reminding herself about that.

She desperately needed aspirin.

She didn’t even bother getting coffee but bought one for herself on the way while trying as much as possible to do her hair in a neat bun when stuck in traffic.

When she finally got to work and realized she wasn’t as late as she ‘d initially proposed, that was only when she could relax weakly into her chair.

The adrenaline drive had phased out and she was back to her normal self.

Episode 10.

Josh was beginning to get home early because of Gavin and the boy seemed to be warming up to him slowly. He was frustrated but Demi told him to give the boy time.

After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither was their father and son relationship going to skyrocket after years of neglecting him.

But when he started noticing his son brought home more bible puzzles and he even had a picture bible and paintings which he had taken time to draw himself, he was furious knowing his suspicions about his extra classes were not mainly educational.

They were religious too and he was bound to sue whoever was filling his child’s head with fallacy and myths when he was supposed to be getting more acquainted with things fit for his age.

He even requested for bible stories before bed time, and when his aunt sat on the rocking chair to hear him read, he read from the Bible, not very clear, but he had improved.

This was getting unbearable.

He knew Demi was not responsible for this, most especially when she had been here with them a long while and nothing like this came up and he’d strictly warned her against it in the past.

Now that it came up, someone else had kindled the fire and Demi was making it burn.

He wanted to take his son out with his girlfriend Jasmine but when he told him he had extra classes with his class teacher which he wasn’t going to miss for the world, and he couldn’t bear it anymore.

His girlfriend walked into his office and planted a wet kiss on his lips. For a while he got lost till it became intense and he had to stop remembering His son’s teacher had requested to see him today by 1pm

This was just 12 o’clock and he didn’t want to get carried away as usual.

“honey.’’ He coaxed when he had broken free. ‘’I have to be see my son’s teacher by 1pm and I don’t wanna miss it this time.’’

“it’s okay.’’ She smoothened her dress. ‘’We can get back to what we started after the game right?’’

“yeah, of course.’’ He was the one who kissed her this time. ‘’you can even come along with me.’’

“you think it’s a good idea?’’

“well, what other way to let the kid know how serious our relationship is?’’

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“you think he’ll show up?’’ Gavin asked Scarlett looking hopefully into her eyes.

She squatted before him and held his face in his hands. His father must be a loser if he didn’t know what he had in Gavin. So talented and gifted and yet so soft inside, like a vulnerable flower.

He’d tried to protect it by looking stubborn and hard on the outside but God had helped her get across to reach him.

“He will show up. let’s hope He will.’’

“I wont mind y’know if he doesn’t show up.’’

Scarlett smiled sadly. ‘’Gav, you have to let your father know the truth about all of this and those classes we’ve been having together after school. You have to let him know I was the one who volunteered and the school doesn’t have a hand in this.’’

“and If I don’t?’’

“it means you’re lying, and God doesn’t tolerate lies.’’

“my Dad is a lawyer, and he might take you to court if he finds out the truth.’’

Wow..it was amazing how fast the boy could pick up things so easily within how many weeks.

Imagine if he’d been left without proper attention and She thanked God once again.

“hey…’’ she raked her hand through his hair lovingly wishing she already had one of her own. ‘’we’re adults, and we’ll settle it like one okay?’’

He had a worried look on his face and Scarlett felt fear rise up within her at the thought of her facing a tough and strict lawyer who was ready to take her to court for trying to feed his son something he so readily antagonized.

“I believe you.’’ He finally succumbed and she drew him into herself. He returned the embrace and beamed at her just before presenting a red rose to her.

“for me?’’

He smiled shyly. ‘’I love the color of your hair. Maria thinks it’s out of this world.’’

Maria was the girl he had begun talking to in class.

“why thank you Gavin’’ she touched his cheeks and hugged him again wishing Gabe could be here right now to see this beautiful child whom she had fallen in love with.

“I’m gonna be six in June.’’ He smiled and she laughed excitedly. ‘’really?’’

“yup.’’

“that’s great!’’

“Gavin?’’

Gavin recognized his father’s voice and tightened his grip on his teacher. Scarlett understood at once and prepared herself for the worst.

“Mr. Riley..’’ she breathed in and turned immediately to face her student’s father once and for all.

She retreated and swallowed unable to look away.

She stood petrified hoping it was some sort of false illusion

“Josh?’’ she squeaked.

“Scarlett?’’ he squinted and on full realization of who it was, he gulped. ‘’Scarlett Ruby’’

“you know each other?’’ Gavin broke into their palpable tension.

A short laughter escaped his throat and didn’t take his eyes away from her. ‘’yeah. Back in high school.’’ He kept staring at her till she blushed but his eyes went to her hair instead.

It amazed him that she was still capable of blushing when he looked at her.

“what happened to your hair?’’ That huge curly hair she had back in high school had been a sort of weakness for him, accompanied with her green eyes. In the past, he’d raked his hands through it when kissing her and loved the feel of it.

But now, what she had was a short and straightened red hair that made her look like one of those models on the runway.

“long story.’’ She replied nervously and kept trying to look away while tapping her fingers nervously on her skirt.

“you look stunning.’’ He commented when he saw how slim she had become and how her oval face still had that rosy cheek he’d always admired whenever she blushed.

And her eyes, oh her eyes, he could look into them now since her walls had been broken. She wore contacts but he could recognize the beauty in those eyes any day any time.

“you’re not bad yourself.’’ She responded noticing the difference between now and high school. Goodness, even in his plain white shirt and blazer, one could tell he worked out pretty good and the shirt seemed to be tight against his body frame. His hair was still dark and thick as usual, tousled casually but looking neat enough.

Even in his casual outfit, she could tell he was a well to do man and full of style who had women at his beck and call.

She was so out of his league, just like high school.

Why did everything seem to be happening so fast after how many years she’d tried to forget everyone in her past?

He laughed revealing a perfect set of white teeth. ‘’wow!, it’s a small world afterall. Who would have known I would be meeting Scarlett Ruby after 10 years she disappeared and forgot all about me.’’

She swallowed unable to defend herself.

He knew he was making her uncomfortable but he didn’t back down and his eyes didn’t waver from her either ‘’I see you’ve met my son so no need for further introductions.’’

‘yeah, Gavin is a great kid.’’ She managed to say wondering how early he had gotten married and forgotten about her in time.

She was glad she had left when she did. Sheila had been right afterall, Josh never saw her more than a library friend.

“so, you teach in Sunnydale?’’

“you’re not gonna sue her Dad, are you?’’ Gavin blurted out worriedly.

His eyes twitched and a sly smile curved on his lips. He wondered How it would be to see Scarlett at his mercy just for a brief moment and waved it aside.

“no, why should i?, rather I’d like to have a conversation with her over dinner to get a better understanding of this whole parade.’’ He had his hands on his son’s shoulder.

“Gavin, why don’t you go and play outside while your father and I talk briefly.’’

“okay.’’ He mumbled and soon he was far away from them.

“Wow. It’s a small world after all isn’t it?’’ he started putting his hands into his pockets confidently and still looking at her

Scarlett felt hot and hoped he didn’t notice the effect he was having on her. gosh! This was horrible. She never expected to have any residue feelings for this guy who had only wanted to see her miserable through her high school years.

“yeah.’’ She swallowed and tried to laugh to ease the tension. ‘’so, how are you?’’

“I’m great, and I don’t need to ask much since it’s obvious you’re doing pretty fine. You’ve been doing pretty fine ever since.’’ His eyes went to the ring on her finger. ‘’and engaged?’’

“yeah, I’m getting married August.’’ She said almost immediately as if trying to assure herself more than him.

He raised an eyebrow. ‘’I see. He must be one lucky guy.’’ He knew she tried to avoid his eyes and enjoyed the fact that she wasn’t comfortable with his presence. She had to be uncomfortable! After all she’d put him through. After making him fall in Love with her and disappearing like it meant nothing to her. and now she had the boldness to tell him she was getting married in about five months time.

Well, he had tried getting married to Gavin’s mother, but their relationship never really worked and He had held on to make himself free of thoughts about her. at least, if it was an obsession, it would come to an end pretty soon but it really didn’t.

It was like she left a scar on him

And this time he wasn’t going to let her go so easily.

“what do you say about dinner tomorrow night where we can talk about this whole thing where my son is involved?’’

She gulped. ‘’I have plans.’’

“it can wait, right?…, I mean this is Gavin and I need to clarify somethings on his behalf and mine.’’

Scarlett wanted to yell at him and rain her fist on him till she was out of breath but managed to nod.

He hadn’t changed at all, and well, she was doing it for Gavin. Her dinner with Gabe would have to wait

“sweetie, is everything alright? Jasmine came from behind and snaked her hands around his waist as if Scarlett posed as a threat where her boyfriend was concerned. Scar saw the look and recognized it for what it was.

A sign of insecurity.

In places where Josh Riley was concerned, she didn’t care anymore. She could clutch him all she wanted. Her focus was on his son and her career.

“this is Miss Ruby, Gavin’s teacher.’’ He said quite uncomfortable that she still had her arms on his waist while Scarlett didn’t look the least surprised. “Miss Ruby, meet a friend of mine Jasmine Crane”

“how do you do?’’ Scarlett extended her hand to the pretty slim blonde and marveled that Josh didn’t even change in his taste for women.

The young woman received it and attached a false smile to her pretty face. ‘’Nice to meet you Miss Ruby.’’

“if you’ll excuse me.’’ She returned the smile and turned to leave unaware of Josh’s scrutiny on her whereas his girlfriend was fully aware that she nudged him back to the present.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

“I don’t think going out with him is a good idea Rea.’’ She began looking into the dressing mirror and afraid of the old feelings he’d awakened just by looking at her two days ago.

She felt like she was holding out on Gabe. Even when he called, she just told him she was having dinner with a child’s parent and it was no big deal. It was just a simple dinner about the boy and it was going to end in an hour or two.

She would call him before going to bed to assure him it was true.

But now, she was beginning to doubt and she took comfort in the fact that Gavin might be there and she was going to keep diverting the conversation back to his son if he tried to drift away.

“you take life too seriously honey.’’ Sue began working on her hair. She had been excited when Scar told her she would be the one to do her wedding make-up.

She was a nurse, no doubt, but she loved colors and fashion to the core.

“so what.’’ She continued unperturbed. ‘’He asks you about a past you two never had and you tell him right to his face what you think of him and how he treated you. He talks about suing you and you tell him you’ve got a good lawyer who’s got your back and if he threatens you because you’re trying to accelerate his son’s learning process, tell him to go to hell. That’s probably where he’ll end up anyway.’’

Rea and Scar opened their mouth agape and not long after, they broke into hysterical laughter.

“it’s the hormones.’’ Rea and Scar mouthed together and Sue shook her head in resignation since they were good at taking words from her mouth.

Rea looked at her through the mirror and their gaze locked. ‘’You don’t have to go if you don’t want to Scarlett.’’

Susan was quiet but paused on her hair raising her gaze to look at Scarlett too. ‘’she’s right y’know. I mean I don’t mean to intrude into your business but I just feel you might still have feelings for him and might give in if you’re not careful.’’

“and that’s why I have to see him tonight to get rid of those feelings or I’d end up not forgiving myself. And I have to stop thinking about silly feelings and talk about his son. Gavin is a promising child and I hate to think I would be responsible for any backlog he might have in future if I don’t talk to his father about it.’’

“okay.’’

In 30 minutes time she was ready leaving Rea and Sue to marvel at how she had turned out. Even in her black dress, and heels, she looked amazing.

“I don’t know what you’re drinking girlfriend but it’s doing you real good.’’ Sue smiled

“is he coming here?’’

“yeah. I told him not to bother but he insisted.’’ And as if he heard their conversation, he pulled up in front of the house just in time.

“Just be careful okay.’’ Rea cautioned her friend and embraced her.

“I gotta run.’’ She kissed her new girlfriends and hurried to the door. She didn’t want him coming into her place and greeting her friends like he was some prince charming who was taking her on a date. He didn’t have the right to.

She was glad he didn’t whistle when she stepped out to meet him but just looking at him looking all cool and strikingly handsome in a tieless shirt and black blazer and black pants was enough to make her throat go dry and she obediently slid into his exotic ride.

Maybe ‘she’ should have done the whistling.

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For a while, neither said anything and stared at the menu. The restaurant looked expensive and exotic and she knew she could never come here on her own for a meal.

For a while, she got carried away by the exquisite meals on the menu and the way everyone looked so formal and she began to feel under-dressed although she doubted any other dress would be better.

This was her best dress.

“the 1986 vintage wine you asked for sir?’’ the waiter spoke courteously and revealed the bottle to him like it was a treasure hidden before placing it on the table

“thank you Ralph.’’ He smiled at him before ordering. Scarlett was a little intimidated but didn’t want to show it and so ordered for something she’d always wanted to try.

“you should know I don’t drink.’’ She told him point blankly

“oh really. Forgive my ignorance. I forgot I was talking to a missionary.’’ He teased

Scarlett felt hurt but she swallowed her pride. ‘’and do you have issues with missionaries Mr. Riley?’’

“and did I mention anything of the sort?’’

“Gavin is a good kid and a promising one in fact. One of the major reasons why I’m here.’’

“of course, but sweetheart, are we gonna miss out on all the fun because you wanna talk business, c’mon, let loose umm.’’

“there’s nothing to talk about Mr. Riley.’’

“oh, not even an explanation for why you left ten years ago without saying goodbye.’’ He blurted out before he could take his words back. He had been meaning to say it ever since but not before they had dinner.

“oh really, is it goodbye you want?’’ her voice was getting high but she didn’t care. ‘’well then, I guess this is it, goodbye.’’ She stood from her seat and walked out but that was before Josh ran after her and grabbed her to face him.

“and where are you going?’’

“home.’’ she tried jerking free most especially when his fingers seemed to send disturbing sparks up her arm.

“when we haven’t had dinner?’’

“I’m doing all I can to help Gavin Mr. Riley, why don’t you do the same by getting serious and facing the issues at hand.’’

“you ran from me didn’t you. You ran away because you felt I wouldn’t feel what you felt for me back in highschool.’’

Scarlett’s spat. ‘’oh you wish!”

“then why don’t you look at me in the eye and tell me what happened that made you leave everything. You didn’t even care about my feelings.’’

“ohh, you think YOU have feelings?’’ she didn’t like the feel of his body against hers and she tried creating a distance between them which was hard to do. ‘’the only feelings you ever had was for yourself and for your stupid team and your stupid girlfriend who made sure I got that into my thick skull, and I did thank you very much.’’

“You never told me anything…’’ he choked out

“I didn’t need to. I supposed you would find out yourself.’’

“And so, we can’t pick up from where we left off?’’

She scoffed. ‘’I see you already did that ahead of me Mr. Riley.’’

“you’re talking?!, you’re the one who’s getting married this summer!’’

‘’and you’re the guy who has his girlfriend sliding her arms around his body in inappropriate places.’’

“you’re jealous…’’ he smirked

“oh please!.., what do I have to be jealous of when I don’t even care what—

But she didn’t finish her statement as he crushed his lips on hers and she melted so easily like warm butter on bread. For a while she was lost in another world till reality dawned on her and she realized she didn’t want to let go because she was loving it too much and she hated herself for it.

She broke free and placed a hand on her lips that was already aflame with his kiss.

And then she hit him hard across the face and ran.

But that was before Josh saw her misty eyes

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“you’re beautiful.’’ Gabe greeted when Scarlett came to settle opposite him in the restaurant he had chosen to have dinner.

“thank you.’’ She smiled when he stood up to plant a kiss on her cheeks and held her hands tenderly. She had chosen to wear something nice for their second evening together and so she chose a sleeveless red gown with pearls and a nice pair of pumps and Sue had been nice enough to make her hair for her

“you like this place?’’ he asked. ‘’I know it might not be too fancy but..’’

She hushed him. ‘’I think it’s great.’’

“I love you.’’

Her heart melted. ‘’I love you too.’’

“you look radiant today, mind sharing?’’

“oh its nothing really. It’s just my kids in school. When I get across to one, even if its just one child I can break his walls, I feel encouraged and inspired.’’

“its no wonder you wanna have a large family.’’ His eyes flickered and she smiled sadly. ‘’Its not only me in this Gabe, it’s us.’’

“I know.’’ He released her hand and picked up his menu card

Scarlett’s heart dropped. She hated when conversations like this came up but there was no way they could keep having superficial conversation when it came to having a family of their own.

It was what she’d dreamed of over and over again and if she couldn’t, they would adopt and she wouldn’t stop visiting the orphanage even after she had her own family.

Tonight, she wanted to enjoy herself and most importantly, make Gabe happy and so she changed the conversation.

“how was work today?’’

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“I’m ashamed of you Josh!’’ Demi yelled at him after he returned to the house late with his tie hanging loosely on his neck and his breath smelling of champagne.

He was ashamed of himself but tried to retain his pride by not showing it and strolled off to his study.

Demi followed behind him talking about Gavin, school work, preparation for camp and so many things he found hard to absorb all at once since his head felt heavy.

Jasmine Crane had succeeded in getting him half-drunk although he’d prepared himself against it.

He was glad he didn’t spend the night at her place or he’d end up feeling worse than he felt presently.

He had a child for goodness sake and he was a father, a lousy one in fact.

It was as if Demi read his mind. ‘’you’re one lousy father Josh! First of all, you fail to spend time with your son, you cancel out on him, you don’t even try doing homework with him and you’re not even present to wish him goodnight or even tell him bedtime stories. That boy has been doing poorly in school work and his teachers complain but you engross yourself so much in work that you refuse to acknowledge the fact that your son needs a father.’’

He closed his eyes and raked his hands through his hair the full realization of what he was doing dawning on him.

He was neglecting Gavin, his only son that Ashley had for him before she had dumped him and the boy and he hated himself for it.

“Demi, I’m sorry.’’

“save it for Gavin tomorrow.’’ She snapped. ‘’and by the way, Gavin has a new class teacher and she said she had to see you on Gavin’s case. It happens that the boy isn’t only doing poorly in school but He’s being bullied.’’

She stormed out of his study and banged the door behind her.

And all he could do was cover his face in his hands and cry.

He was going to make it up to his son. He just hoped it wasn’t too late.

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“hey kiddo.’’ He greeted when he strolled into the kitchen and tousled his son’s hair.

“Dad stop!’’ He yelped. ‘’Aunt Demi took time to comb my hair Dad and all you can do is ruin it.’’

There was a palpable silence in the kitchen after his statement and Demi couldn’t interfere as usual. Her nephew was getting what He deserved

“I’m sorry.’’ He apologized and tapped his cheeks. ‘’so what’s for breakfast?’’

Gavin ignored him and kept coloring something on the kitchen table while His father sorted his breakfast out with his aunt.

“what did I tell you about eating and not letting anything else disrupt your attention?’’ Josh queried when he noticed how serious his son sat down to pay attention to the awkward comic.

“that was like a year ago?’’ his voice dripped with sarcasm and he didn’t look up at his father

Josh bit his lip and snatched the book from underneath his pencil so as to see what occupied his son’s time.

His eyes widened when he saw what it was.

“who’s been filling your head with religious nonsense?’’

“it’s just a comic Dad, not a bible.’’

Josh glanced at Demi and she looked away. If she was the one teaching her son about stuffs like this then he would have to talk some sense into the both of them.

“eat your food and get ready for school.’’ He picked the magazine and flipped through the pages wondering what the whole TOPZ meant.

Demi gave him the eye and he sighed. ‘’I’ll be taking you to school today.’’

“I follow the bus.’’

“and I said I’ll be taking you to school today.’’ He emphasized and downed his mug of coffee. At least, he would drop him off and head to work from there.

When they finally got to school, Gavin unlocked his seat belt and was about stepping out when Josh held him back. “I’m sorry about this morning.’’

Gavin shrugged nonchalantly.

“look..’’ he turned off the ignition and looked into his son’s eyes. He had his mother’s eyes. ‘’I wanna make it up to you. I know I haven’t been a good father to you and so I wanna promise you I’ll be there for you always.’’

Gavin was quiet this time.

‘’so, I’ll come pick you up today after school, okay?’’

“what about Aunt Demi?’’

“we’re giving her the day off. And before we get to the house, we could stop by and get ourselves a bowl of Rocky road ice-cream and those muffins you love so much.’’

Gavin hesitated before speaking. ‘’I wont be able to make it. I have an after class with my Class teacher.’’

“since when did you start staying back for extra classes?’’

He didn’t reply.

“and is this by school’s demand?’’

He lied and nodded. ‘’yes.’’

“and how come you didn’t mention it to me?’’

“aunt Demi knew about it and she didn’t mind. In fact she thought it might help and it did.’’

He nodded slowly trying to digest the whole news at once but still a little suspicious about his whole extra class thing.

“okay, have a great day at school.’’

He slammed the door and hurried off into the school building. He watched him walk up to a slim woman who welcomed him easily and placed her hand on his shoulder while leading him into the building.

He looked closely and thought her stride was familiar.

She turned and looked across with a smile. The distance between them was great so he couldn’t see her face clearly when she waved, on full realization that He was the boy’s father.

And she turned and walked away with his son.

There was just something about that woman that nudged at him. She looked familiar, too familiar in fact.

Episode 9

A month after Scarlett resumed in Sunnydale as preschoolers class teacher and counselor, she had gotten to know her colleagues and her kid’s names by heart and showed each one of them equal affection hereby making the kids more compatible with her method of teaching. After school, she spent time with the slow learners and since their parents knew about it, they had no problem with it most especially when she did it out of her extra time. She wasn’t being paid for it.

But there was one child she was having difficulty reaching and she’d been his data to help out in her spare time if she could and she knew she would.

His name was Gavin Riley.

And she’d tried so much to get him acquainted with his playmates and his environment but he loved his solace. He could sit for hours shading boxes and not look up in class and during break time he stayed on the swing refusing to play with anybody.

With the little knowledge she had in psychology, she knew if she could reach within him, and bring him out of his shell, he would do brilliantly and stop drawing on his paper and also reply her whenever she asked him a question.

One of her colleagues with strawberry blonde hair and green eyes disrupted her thoughts

“Miss Ruby.’’ He greeted with a wide but shy smile and Scarlett didn’t take long to know the young man had a crush on her. Ever since she stepped into the school, the man hardly stayed away from her class all in the pretense of ‘just checking up’ on her. she tried not to encourage his visits but He was a persistent man and the vulnerable side of her didn’t want him to feel bad by chasing him completely away.

‘’Mr. Chase.’’ She tried to smile and at the same time placed her fingers on the table for display so that he would be reminded of her status.

She was very much engaged.

‘’you look beautiful.’’ He praised.

“thank you Mr. Chase.’’

‘’and how are your kids doing? Improving I hope’’

“yes, they are by God’s grace.’’

“and that kid Gavin, I heard Mrs Lawrence talking about how slow he is to adapt to others and he might need special attention. She also mentioned getting in touch with his guardian.’’

Scarlett felt irritated that a married woman like Mrs Lawrence didn’t mind her business and that of her classroom kids. Gavin didn’t have a disability. He was fine the way he was and just needed loads of care and attention which was somehow lacking at home.

“Mrs Lawrence hasn’t made any complaint to me.’’ she replied briefly and stood up to adjust her lesson note for the next class. Just as she was about speaking further, a child’s cry rang through her class right from the playing ground and she rushed to the window to see what the whole fuss was about.

She gasped when she saw Gavin crying on the floor with dirt all over his hair and feet. It was obvious he had been bullied and some mischievous kids had thrown sand on him.

She ignored Mr. Chase standing close to her and rushed outside where he sat crying and she didn’t think twice before scooping her into her arms.

“it’s okay sweetheart, it’s alright. You’ll be fine.’’ She whisphered and kept rocking him while looking at the other kids that stood watching her.

“which one of you did this to him?’’ she was angry.

The young girl that stood by shook her head but mouthed. ‘’I only tried playing with him but he wouldn’t say anything. And then Jimmy Brick came and pushed him on the floor. His friends started making fun of him and poured sand on him.’’

Her English wasn’t well pronounced but she could grasp enough of what she was saying

She ignored the other kids and took him to the sick bay where the nurse attended to his wounds. Later in the afternoon, she went to pick him and try to cheer him up.

“hi.’’

He was curled up on the bed and managed a soft reply. ‘’hi’’

That was a little progress, she thought to herself and came to settle beside him while using her fingers to push back his tousled black hair.

He was a beautiful kid and though he tried proving tough, she could see right through him that he was so soft and vulnerable.

Infact, he could break easily. Probably one of the reasons why he was unhappy.

“You okay?’’

He nodded and looked into her eyes then. At that moment, she fell in love with the child.

“I bought you some goodies. I’ll give it to you once we leave this place.’’

“okay.’’

“you ready to go home?’’

He wiped his eyes and nodded finally sitting up. she took that opportunity to get his socks and shoes and soon, he was on his feet.

Scarlett thought of getting in touch with his father or guardian and have a good chat with them both. This child needed so much more than attention and she hoped he wasn’t having ADHD issues that could worsen his case.

She took him by the hand and led him out of the room while briefly thanking the nurse. Other kids had gone home at that time and she picked out a nylon from her bag which contained smarties and a coloring comic book.

She saw his eyes brighten and thanked God once more.

“thank you.’’ he mumbled

Just then, his aunt strolled inside to pick him.

“hiya cowboy.’’

He turned and ran towards her, jumping on her in the process.

“Hello Mrs Riley.’’

“Call me Demi please. I’m his aunt.’’

“it’s a pleasure to meet you Demi.’’ She extended her hand towards the woman and she received it warmly in return. ‘’You must be Gavin’s new teacher. I haven’t set eyes on you before.’’

“Yes. I’m Scarlett Ruby by the way.’’

“nice to meet you Scarlett.’’

“well, I would love to see you privately about Gavin and I don’t know when that will be possible.’’

“Anytime is suitable for me. it’s just that I would love for his father to be present too, if that’s okay by you.’’

“sure, that will be perfect.’’

“but if you don’t mind my asking, is everything alright with Gavin? Did something go wrong?’’

“not really, it’s just that at this stage of his life when he’s meant to be alert socially , emotionally and mentally, he’s not which I know He can even be better than where he is presently. He’s a good kid with so much promise but His father has a lot to do by playing his role appropriately.’’

“okay.’’

“what about Gavin’s mum?’’

“she wont be back in a long time.’’ Demi scoffed. ‘’I just decided to stop by and help out in every possible way that I can.’’

“I’m sorry.’’

“oh don’t be.’’ She beamed and further asked. ‘’so, when will be a good time to let his father come over to see you so that you two can talk?’’

“probably next week Friday, or if I can get a number to keep in touch to serve as a reminder if his father is that busy.’’

“no problem.’’ Demi called out Josh’s number and Scarlett punched the number into her cell and saved it immediately hoping that the man would be reasonable enough to come over.

“thank you Miss Ruby. I wont forget to inform him.’’

“thank you too.’’

Gavin looked up at her with his soulful eyes and waved when his aunt led him away. ‘’Goodbye Miss Ruby.’’

“See you tomorrow Gavin’’

It was after they were gone she finally collapsed into her chair. The whole day had been so exhausting.

But she was glad for one thing. The boy had opened a doorway for her to come in. and if God would help her, she wouldn’t mind introducing him to Jesus too.

Episode 8.

“I think you already know the answer to the question you’re asking me.’’ Mrs Ruby gave her daughter a rueful smile and sipped her coffee with satisfaction.

“I’m just a little confused. I mean it’s a job I’ve prayed for, for so long and now it comes and I feel myself withdrawing and…’’

“it’s been years Scarlett Rose Ruby.’’ Her mother sighed and Scarlett could see tears already swimming in her mother’s eyes and she felt sober. Her mother rarely called her full name “you’ve allowed your past to ruin you while others have moved on and yet, this teaching job, something you love so much finally turns up in Naperville where you grew up and you’re hesitating?’’

“I haven’t spoken to Rea in like 10 years.’’ She looked down into her tea cup almost ashamed of herself. ‘’calling her now would make me look like an opportunist.’’

“which you know you are not. If you’re looking for a mediator, I can call her and act as a bridge.’’

She shook her head. ‘’no, I’m 27 years old mum, I don’t need you standing up for me anymore.’’

“what about Gabe, have you called him yet?’’

“no, I wanted to make up my mind before giving him the news.’’

“he’s a good man honey. Don’t let your foolishness drive him away. This is just working out so well, don’t you see. You two have been contemplating on how to sort out your moving issues and now, it’s been solved. When you get married, it makes all things easier and you have a good job of your own right there. You know I sent you to college for a reason don’t you?’’

“I do.’’

“so make Gabe happy. You two are already engaged and are planning to get married this Summer. Your father and I will gladly come for the wedding and who knows, you’ll make new friends who will help you with your wedding arrangements. I know Rea will be more than willing. You hardly made friends here anyway.’’ Her mother shrugged.

Scarlett nodded.

‘’so, why don’t you pick up the phone and call your sweetheart umm? I have Andrea’s number so you can call her up and tell her to help you go apartment hunting. You have enough cash right?’’

“yes, my savings.’’ She interjected. She didn’t want her mother to offer her any money. They had done enough for her already.

Her mother knew this but decided to play along as usual. ‘’so, when are you leaving?’’

“Tomorrow.’’ She forced a smile. ‘’ I was told to come over as soon as possible.’’ She sighed. ‘’sometimes I find it hard to believe that I’m about to start doing what I’d always loved to do after so many years of working for Mr Becker. He’s a good man y’know.’’

“yeah, he is. But goodness won’t get you food on your table, your clothing and your bills honey. Hard work and prayer does.’’

Scarlett looked at her wristwatch. ‘’I’ve gotta go pack and call Rea. Wish me luck.’’ She stood up and bent low to kiss her mother on the cheeks.

“Wish you much more than luck sweetie.’’

Scarlett picked her purse and hurried off, leaving her mother to stare after her.

She began to have doubts about her daughter leaving for Naperville and she tried as much as possible to bask in the comfort that it was all for good.

Her daughter needed to face her fears and move on, she needed to forget the past and face her future with the man she loved and so she was leaving.

That should keep her mind at rest shoudn’t it?

then why did the other side of her feel so uncertain about the whole thing?

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

Rea’s face was on fire and she was unable to say anything when Ryan stood before her looking like a GQ model in a ward coat. He looked much more different than the last time she’d set eyes on him.

And that was about five years ago.

His glasses were perched on his nose and he quickly adjusted them back to his eyes, quite nervously as Rea observed his hands trembling a little while he handled her Chart.

“Rea.’’ He breathed. ‘’hi’’

“hi.’’ She managed with eyes still widened in shock but was able to recover in time. ‘’Ryan, I didn’t know you work here.’’

“I just got a transfer a few weeks ago and it’s been like that ever since.’’

“ohh.’’ Was all she could mumble and looked at her palms. She felt like hitting him with her white palms till he felt the pain she felt years ago when He dumped her over the phone.

Very typical of Him. He was just like what she’d heard from other women about men. They used women and dump them.

She’d give him all and the only way He felt He could repay her was break up with her over the phone.

Such confidence and attitude. It was a surprise she didn’t notice those attributes in him initially.

“so.., how have you been?’’

“you now wear glasses?’’ she didn’t bother answering his questions. To her, they sounded stupid. How else could she have been all these years without him

“yeah.., reading glasses of course.’’

She hated him. right now, she hated the sight of him and the way they talked like strangers. Like they didn’t even know each other so much more than this. He had caused everything. He made her miserable for so long and she hated that He was the one that could see to her.

She made up her mind there and then. ‘’I’ll like to change my doctor.’’

“what?’’

“I don’t want you to operate on me.’’ she made herself clear. ‘’I do not want you to handle anything concerning me in this hospital. I hope I get a different doctor or I pull off the hospital gown and leave’’

“Rea.., please.’’

“don’t you dare ‘Rea’ me.’’ she held back the tears that was rimming in her eyes and looked at him in the eye. ‘’Please leave, right now or I’ll get my lawyer.’’

Ryan looked into her eyes then and stepped back.

And then He was gone.

It was after He was gone she realized how much hatred emanated from her being just on setting eyes on him and yet how much she’d missed him. she thought she had moved on. she thought he didn’t mean anything to her anymore since she gave her life to Christ.

She thought everything was settled.

It was now she realized how wrong she was and she burst into tears

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

Ryan closed his eyes to inhale deeply resting on the door which he had just exited a few seconds ago wondering what he could say to make Rea understand why he had to leave her and why he couldn’t bear to see her hurting the way she seemed to be presently.

it had been years, so many years but yet He could remember everything about her. she hadn’t changed much although the spark in her eyes were gone.

the spark that reminded him of their times together.

he thought leaving her would help him get rid of his feelings but how wrong He was. it was like his feelings had been magnified times ten and he just wanted to pull her close, embrace her and kiss her.

But he couldnt. He just couldn’t.

Not after the decision he’d made those years ago during his residency when He gave his life to Christ. He’d been living a sinful life and He knew it. Rea wouldnt understand if he started explaining things to her and that was why He had to do it over the phone for fear that if he had to travel down to see her, he would forget about everything and just take her into his arms, taking no thought for tomorrow.

But now, the old feelings just came rushing back all at once. He accepted the transfer to Naperville hoping that Rea would be long gone by then and since he got some acquired property on the outskirts of Naperville, he found it more as a blessing and moved.

who would have known three weeks after he got the transfer, Rea would be at his doorstep?

He had to inform a different doctor to take care of her present situation. His ex-girlfriend had appendicitis and needed surgery immediately and if Sue in her pregnant state hadnt been able to tell her, then another doctor would have to.

But most definitely not him.

“Dr. Riverstone…” a nurse called his attention and He moved away from the door immediately to attend to another patient that had just been rolled into the hospital.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

Some days after Rea’s surgery, while she lay resting at home since she had been given a few days off, and Susan was on morning shift in the hospital, a call came through and not recognizing the number, she hesitated twice before resigning to whoever it might be.

“hello.’’

“hello…’’ the voice at the other end was low and a little shaky. Was someone trying to pull some sort of prank? She looked at the time.

It was just 2 o’clock in the afternoon. Too early in the day for pranks

“who’s this?’’

“Rea, is that you?’’

“yes.., and may I know who this is?’’

“its Scarlett. Scarlett Ruby.’’

Rea jerked from her seat. ‘’Scar?!! You mean Scar, my best friend in highschool who disappeared ten years ago without saying goodbye?’

She sighed. ‘’l’m sorry. I know I don’t have any right to be calling you…’’

“cut the formality talk girlfriend.’’ Rea laughed full heartedly and exhaled. ‘’I missed you.’’

“I missed you too.’’ She could hear her friend sniffing over the phone and knew she was already starting to cry as usual.

Still the same old Scarlett.

“so, what’s up?’’

“I’m coming over to Naperville.’’ She announced.

“wow!, that’s great. For what? Is everything alright?’’

“yeah, it is. I just got a job at Sunnydale and I was thinking you could help me out.’’

“okay.’’ Rea felt hurt that Scar remembered her because she needed help but swallowed the bile words she was about to spew and asked. ‘’and where do I come in?’’

“I need a place temporarily. A place I can stay for a few days while I go apartment hunting.’’

There was silence for a while and Scarlett began thinking Rea had hung up on her. she asked, ‘’Rea? Are you still there?’’

‘’yeah, of course.’’

“I’m sorry, this was a bad idea. I shouldn’t have..’’ she was about hanging up when Rea further asked. ‘’when are you coming over?’’

“first thing tomorrow.’’

“call me before you leave and give me the details to your present location when you arrive and where you’ll be. You can branch by a restaurant or coffee house and call me to inform me.’’

“I don’t know what to say.’’

“a simple “yes I will” should do the job.’’

Scarlett smiled over the phone and repeated the exact words Rea mentioned.

Rea could only smile and hang up as the tears betrayed the emotions she was feeling. She knew she had a part to play in the whole scenario of Scarlett leaving her and she knew this was the time she had to make it up to her.

She was going to have a new roommate starting from tomorrow.

;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;

“you have a great place Rea.’’ Scarlett acknowledged as she pulled her bags into the house and looked around. This was so far from what she had been living in for years at her little condo in St. Louis. It looked like the kind that could be found only in the country side. The huge stone house had a lovely charm to it’s construction ad this surprised Scarlett more. She had thought Rea was the kind of girl that zoomed off to city life immediately after college and live with a wonderful roommate just like her but the girl had proved her wrong with this charming house.

She knew there was still so much to talk about but time would tell. Right now, she needed to drink in her temporary accommodation and bask in the soothing smell of spring that was around to stay and the smell seemed to have permeated the whole building enveloping her.

The house even had a sun porch which was furnished with natural wicker tables and chairs and Scar knew this was the kind of home she’s always wished for her new family with Gabe and since she had skills in decorating, she would make it more beautiful and colourful and there would also be a separate room for the nursery. Gabe was doing well in the publishing house for which he worked and they would both work hard to give their kids what they want and live the life they’d dreamed of in their dream house. She already had the picture of everything In her head.

Rea’s house was beautiful but lacked décor but since she knew her friend wasn’t much a decorating person, she didn’t mind. The house was made of glass, adobe, stone and wood and Scarlett mused that her friend was doing pretty well to be able to afford a place like this. It wasn’t that big, but in Scar’s eyes it was, and most importantly, it was comfortable.

It lacked something like flowers. yes! Profusion of flowers In the sun porch and everywhere else to make the place look more homey

Rea led her into the house helping her with her load while she pulled her dog by the collar knowing fully well he was bound to run around excitedly if she didn’t keep him in his reins. Rea showed her the balcony, the garden, and the living room

She wanted to ask her when they would start sharing the bills but decided to take a shower first and off-load all her bags into the room she would be staying. When Rea deposited her into the hallway that led to her room, she was glad with what she saw and told her so before she left to pick her call.

Scarlett was already unpacking when Rea walked in.

“hey.’’

“hey.’’ Scarlett smiled at her and went into her arms when she stood standing with outstretched arms.

“it’s been ten years and I find it hard to believe it’s you, right here in my house.’’

“thank you for taking me in. this all came as a surprise to me. You telling me I would be your new roommate. You don’t know how much this means to me.’’

“you left without even saying goodbye.’’ Rea managed to speak out already choking from tears.

“I’m sorry.’’

“I’m sorry too.’’

They released each other and settled down on the bed together. ‘’you mind telling me about it?’’

Scar looked down. ‘’not yet. I don’t think I can handle the whole thing coming out now but in time, I will.’’

“okay. So how have you been and what’s this new job about?’’

“I’m gonna be a teacher in Sunnydale Elementary school, help with the preschoolers in their social and other activities. Its what I’ve ever dreamed and prayed about.’’

“wow! Just what I thought you’d be.’’ Her gaze went to her left hand and she raised an eyebrow. ‘’so when were you going to tell me about your engagement?’’

Scarlett slapped her hands on her lap nervously. ‘’I’m sorry. I know I should have called you and told you earlier but it all happened so fast..”

“so, who’s the guy and what does he do?’’

“Gabe Morrison. He works for a publishing company and we’re getting married this summer.’’ She beamed excitedly. “he’s an amazing person Rea and I really want you two to meet. We could have dinner sometime.’’

“that would be awesome!’’

“and so do you mind telling me about your hair?’’

“oh…, it was just something I had to do with time. The curly huge hair was getting too much attention and I…,’’ she sighed. ‘’it’s a story for another day.’’

“wow Scar, you’ve really changed. I almost didn’t recognize you sitting down by the coffee house. You looked like a supermodel.’’ Rea confessed.

The truth was that when she’d been looking around for her when she came over to pick her, she’d glanced her way initially but looked away before looking again just to realize Scarlett was the pretty woman who sat by the end of the coffee house. Short and prim red hair that looked like a professional had taken care of. A slight touch of red lipstick that blended so well with her hair and skin and green eyes that looked warm and inviting.

She was slim and her dress didn’t hide the fact that she was. In fact, it was that obvious that she worked out with the curvy body she possessed compared to the Scarlett she’d known ten years ago. Four inched heels that graced beautiful small but smooth feet with a lovely chiffon gown that stopped right above her knees. She didn’t look exotic and her clothing didn’t look expensive or the designer type.

But with the way she looked, with shades on her hair while she sat outside the coffee house with her lovely animal so quiet at her feet, her graceful appearance was enough to make any decent man wonder about her personality or rather, ask her any question at all, just to look into the pretty face with the red hair.

She’d said the curly huge hair called attention, well this wasn’t any better.

The Red hair just had an amazing effect on her, and with it looking primly cut, she looked more like a picture model

Her mind immediately flashed to Josh and she wondered what he’d think of Scar if he saw her now.

Good thing she was engaged. She wanted to ask if she still thought about him but avoided it. she wasn’t going to bring up past memories. She was still dealing with hers

Scar blushed. ‘’yea right!’’

“Gabe must be a lucky guy.’’

“we both are.’’

“its good to have you back’’ Rea stood up

“thanks.’’ She paused. ‘’Rea, I wanted to talk to you about splitting bills and stuff. Probably when I start working..’’

“and did I ask you to?’’

“No Rea, you cant..’’

“its my house and you’re my friend. When I have difficulty in paying for a place, I’ll tell you umm.’’ She assured. ‘’so, are you hungry?’’

“yea, but I’ll shower first and sort out some things before coming downstairs to join you.’’

“okay then.’’ And she was gone

And all Scar could do was fall on her knees and thanked God. This was more than what she’d asked for.

rofemiguwa: Amazing spell bounding story.
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