₦airaland Forum

ghostwritter:
My dear Tiffanyj...kudos to you, what a job well done...had to read all night none stop. Love you.

Love you too. I am really honoured sir.
There was this your story I ardently followed last two years. 'Corridor of hell' you are such a wonderful writer

harunablezin:
mhmmm......nawa for diz madam Sarah ooo....abeg make she allow shayet rest na abi na wetin sef

Lol, why you dy provoke like this?

arabaribiti:
Am enjoying this story my love

I'm glad you are dear

queenitee:
Cool as always

Thank you

rachealfst:
SMH.... Shayet!!! You will suffer ehn! Tissan's mum will see to that.
I really pity her though, she doesn't deserve that cruel mother inlaw.

Me too. Madam how have you been?

sinachi1:
wow using Baju names. nice story

Thank you ma

Oyindawealth:
Dis Susan of a mother in law,dey mad gan..... Oloun n gbo.....

Its Sarah, not Susan dear

ebysandra:
Weldone, great story as always. More grease

Thank you

anneboy02:
Wateva she wants to do she will surely fail

Amen

shugasofttouch:
which tribe?

Are you surprise

CHAPTER 4

Shayet looked at her mum. She was crying.
'Mother stop'
'No Shayet. Do you know what?'
'What?'
'The day I became a kept woman, society began talking against me. Go back to your husband, avoid doing anything that will make him hit you. Do your duty and smile when you two go out but never you tell a soul what you are going through, not even Suchet or Kasham, I will be here, you can talk to me when you want'
'What did I get myself into?'
'Dry your tears Shayet. Go back home five months isn't far away. Its all my fault'
Her mother's door opened and Suchet poked his head. He looked at them and wondered what happened.
'Shyet, don't tell me you are already having problems with Tissan'
'No Suchet, she's here to say her final goodbye to me. we just cleared the air between us. She is not angry with me anymore'
'Kasham said she came with a suitcase'
'That's my hired wedding gown and veil. I wanna take it to a dry cleaner'
'Okay, I am glad', he said and went away.
Baboshia locked the door and asked her daughter to remove her clothes. She almost weep in anger but quietly applied ointment on the scars. A knock came at the door.
'Mum, Tissan sent someone to pick Shayet', Kasham shouted.
'She will be out in two minutes'.
So Shayet bid her mother fair well and followed the man to the car. He picked her suitcase and drove her back to Tissan. Once at home, she went upstairs to her room. It was almost 11am. The knock interrupted her tears.
'Come in'
A maid in yellow dress smiled at her. She tried and smiled back.
'Ma, good morning'
'Morning to you too'
'Madam said I should call you?'
'Oh, are they back from the hotel?'
'Yes ma'
'I will be down shortly'
She said and ran to the bathroom where she scrubbed her face and dried it with a towel. Walking downstairs, she saw her mother-in-law laughing.
'Good morning ma'
'Must I call you to come tell me good morning?'
'No ma. I was unavailable when you came back'
'I don't want this happening again'
'It won't ma'
Tissan and his father walked downstairs. She greeted the man. Tissan stared at her as she walked up.
'Shayet?'
'Sir?'
'Have you eaten today'
'Yes, I ate at my mum's', she lied
She lay on her bed and marveled at the mess she was in. The door opened and her husband strode in. She didn't say a word to him.
'Shayet, I was drunk yesterday. I know I shouldn't have beaten you up even though you deserved it'
She remained quiet.
'Did you tell your mum?' She said nothing
'I am sorry I did beat you but please, whenever you need sex, come to me just don't go sleeping around'
'Tissan, I trusted you'
'I said I'm sorry. I've asked the maids to move your things to my room'
He went away. When the maids came, she sent them away. Telling them she could pack her things. By evening, she was done with her task. She was in the bathroom when Tissan came in. She wore her worn out pajamas and joined him in bed. She lay as far away from him as she could. He moved to her side and touched her.
'Its time you get new clothes'
'I don't need new clothes'
'You are married to me now. You need clothes. I will take you shopping'
'Okay'
'Shayet...'
'Good night Tissan'
'May I see your wounds?'
'No'
'Please'
She said nothing as he unbuttoned her shirt and took it off her. He sighed in disbelief when he saw it.
' Oh my God. I am really sorry'
She didn't say a thing to him.
'I promise to never hit you again. I hurt you and I am sorry'
Shayet was boiling in anger but she didn't want to let it out yet. she turned and began to cry softly. He heard her and moved to her, stroking her hair and telling her how sorry he was. They slept with her in his arms.
By morning, he went down for breakfast and left her still sleeping.
'Where is your wife?', his mum asked him
'She is sleeping'
'Its 8am'
'I know',
Sarah stood up and began walking upstairs. She swung the door opened and found Shayet coiled up under the duvet, with her pajamas on the floor.
'Young lady', she shouted. Shayet stared and quickly sat up, drawing the covers to her chin.
'Good morning ma'
'We are not lazy in this house. Why are you still in bed?'
'Ma, I am tired. What with the wedding and I couldn't sleep the night of the wedding'
'I don't care', she said and removed the covers from Shayet. Shayet instinctively used her arms to cover her bosom. The woman saw the welts on her body and smiled. Shayet bit her lower lips.
'Now leave that bed and see about supper'
'Ma, I am respecting you, at least, I deserve a bit of it from you'
Sarah slapped her. 'You slut. If you think I will sit by and watch you get a cent from my son you are wrong. Your harlot of a mother didn't bring you up'
'My mother is better than you'
The woman hit her again just as Tissaan came in.
'Mother why did you hit her?'
'She insulted me'
'I am her husband, you didn't tell me'
'I don't need your permission to hit her'
'Listen to me mother, never you lay your hands on my wife again. I don't care how you treat your maids but Shayet here is not a maid'
'Son, she...'
'Mother, I need to be alone with Shayet'
She left them and he turned to her as she cried. He sat on the bed and touched her arms. She hit his hands away
'I was living a perfect life, I had my own mother whom despite my insults loves. Emma dumped me but I was coping until you came. I left the perfect life I had to marry you out of pity. You used your belt on me on our wedding night and a day after, your mum hit me. Is this how you love?'
'Shayet...'
'I don't want to ever have to see your face again or even talk to you. I can't wait to walk out of this house in five months'
'You sound like you can't wait for me to die'
'I can't wait Tissan'
'Shayet...'
'Don't ever touch me. You are no better than my idiot of a father and Emma. Don't even talk to me. If you need s.x, get it elsewhere cause you disgust me'
'Her out burst shocked him. He felt like weeping. She just turned and continued weeping. Tissan felt helpless. Yes, she slept with his best friend but he shouldn't have beaten her up. He woke up the next morning feeling guilt. It was only natural he sent someone to pick her up. He had been scared she wouldn't come back. He sat on the bed and and covered her body with a duvet. He laid with her and listened to her hiccups before she finally slept. He went downstairs and ordered the cook to prepare food for her. When she finally came awake three hours later, he watched her had a bath and help applied ointment on her back. No words were spoken between them. There wasn't need for that. He went down and brought her food. She ate her food silently and then lay on the bed.
'Shayet, I said I am sorry'

******
Shayet seemed to have made a decision. She hardly talk to her husband unless they were with company. To the outside world, they were happy couple but back in the bedroom, they were strangers. Three weeks after the unfortunate wedding night, Tissan had tried all he could to get back the old Shayet but it all seemed impossible. She did no house chores and spent the day in their bedroom. His mother was tired of talking to him. Shayet went to the kitchen only if Tissan asked her to cook for him and he rarely did that.

Two weeks after the wedding, he had taken her shopping. She wouldn't even thank him nor acknowledge what he did for her. Her husband fill her pockets with gifts. From lingeries, jewelry, candy and even the littlest of things. To the maids, Tissan and his wife were madly in love. Shayet had never stepped his foot in Shayet's house. He was ashamed of himself and didn't know what to tell her mother, he resorted to avoiding the poor woman and she never for once called him. That morning, three weeks after their wedding, Shayet told Tissan she was going home to visit her family. Tissan consented and gave her some money to give her mother.
'I won't take it. Give it to her yourself'
He put the money back in the drawer and went out. Shayet bathed and went home. She spent the day with her family and returned that evening to see Richard's car parked outside. Anger nearly chocked her as she entered the compound and then the living room. She found him seated with her mother-in-law, talking in hush tunes. She said not a word to them as she continued walking upstairs.
'Young lady!'
'Madam'
'Come down here', Shayet came back and stood in front of the woman
'Where are you coming from?'
'Do you care?'
'So you now talk back at me?'
'You want me to respect you? You must earn it'
'How dare you?'
'You and this he-goat here are evil. You two planned and ruined my wedding night. I will never forgive, nor forget. Nemesis shall catch up with you'
'He is my only son. You are just a slut. Nothing more. A bastard, a nobody'
Shayet hated the woman. She laughed bitterly, there and then, decided to punish the woman.
'Yes, I am a nobody, I am a bastard, and a sl.t but madam, give this sl.t a month. She will be with child. Your grand child. When its time, I shall take my baby out of this horrible place you call home'
'You won't dare'
'I will start tonight. As for you Richard, nothing is hidden under the sun. I promise you'
she spurned and walked away. Tissan had forbidden his mother from lying a finger on his wife. She began thinking of a lie to tell her son concerning his wife. As for Shayet, she changed, came down to the kitchen and prepared dinner for her husband. She was almost through when he came back. She welcomed him warmly and told him to change and come down for his food.
'You cooked for me?'
'Yes'
By the time he settled down to eat, he was so surprised at the change in his wife.
'Mother, its time for dinner', Shayet called out
'I am not hungry', she hissed
Shayet sat down and joined her husband. They ate in silence and when they were done, he held her hands and the two walked to the living room. They sat down and watched the 8am news. By 9am, Shayet yawned twice. She went on her feet and bid her mother-in-law goodnight. The woman barely answered her. She went up and took a bath. She was determine to do it at all cost. she took longer than necessary in the bath and emerged in a skimpy white lacy dress. The door opened and her husband came in.
'Shayet, mother said...'
'Tissan, you went to the hospital today?'
'Yes'
'How is your health?'
'Its just there. This is the first day you asked after my health since that unfortunate incidence. You even willingly cooked for me and spoke to me. Am I forgiven?'
'No'
'Its still a step. Thank you'
'You said whenever I need s.x I should come to you?'
'Yes. Are you starved?'
'No'
'I'm so sorry I hurt you. But you broke my heart when you said you can't wait for me to die and that I should seek s.x elsewhere'
'Did you?'
'No woman can ever take your place in my life. I couldn't even think of touching other women'
'Tissan?'
'Yes?'
'Although you hurt me and I am yet to forgive you, I can't ever forget what you did to my family'
'Okay'
'I want a child', she declared.
'A what?'
'Someone to remind me of you and everything we shared when you die'
'You want to have s.x with me for a baby? Not because you are starved'
'Yes'
'Okay, let's make a baby' He said and kicked off his shoes. His shirt came next.
'Tissan?'
'Are you up to this? I mean, your health. The doctor said you need undiluted rest'
'I had that rest for a month and three weeks'
'I don't want to have to rush you to the hospital'
'Okay. We will be gentle'
Sarah dared Shayet by knocking on the door by 8am. She entered without waiting for permission. She saw her beloved son, sleeping silently in the arms of another woman. She glanced around and saw the clothes on the floor.
'Tissan!', she yelled
Her son came awake with a start making him to unintentionally wake Shayet. He blinked saw his mother and thanked God for the spread over them. He felt cold at night and had covered their body.
'Mother?'
'Tissan, do you want to die? Your health'
'Mother, some things are wrong you know. It is very wrong of you to barge into my room like this. For goodness sake I am married. I deserve some privacy you know'
'This slut here wants to finish you off'
'She is my wife and please, you are embarrassing me. Are you not ashamed mum? I am unclad and you don't care?'
'Are you not my son?'
'Mother please leave. We will talk about this later'
'Send her away, son. Can't you see what she is trying to do. She wants to...'
'I am begging you, stop embarrassing Shayet and I'
She turned and stormed out of the room. No, she won't ever let that brat carry her grandchild. Never. She stood at the doorway and eavesdrop on their conversation.
'Sorry sweet, my mum will soon get used to the idea that we are married'
'I can't take this disrespect anymore'
'What do you mean?'
'How can you watch your mum do this to us? It isn't proper at all'
'I will talk to her'
'No. The other time, she walked in here and removed the bed covers from my body. Now look at it, she is simply selfish'
'Hi, forget my mother for now. I think seeing you angry had revived another lust in me', he said as his hands reached to cup her breasts.
Shayet moaned. He tickled her foot and she burst out laughing.
'This is the Shayet I know'
'I miss you Tissan'
'I miss you too. I'm so sorry I beat you. Can you ever forgive me?'
'I didn't sleep with Richard. I just want you to believe and trust me'
'Forget Rich, now its just we two and I need you'
'Your mother...'
'Do you want your own husband to beg before making love with you?'
'No'
'Good, then let's have fun',
Sarah heard her son said and then Shayet's laughter filled the room. She made her hands into a fist. Its time she took matters into her own hands. Sarah walked away, smiling. She knew just what to do.

vakjay08:
l just knew dat u are 4rm the region. Did u mind i ask wot tribe particularly? Meanwhile u doing a gr8 job pls kip it up.

Lol, I am bajju by tribe. Ring a bell?

Jiteshell:
This beginning is nice

I thought you left NL.

CHAPTER 3
Tissan could feel her embarrassment, she looked ready to run. She had the look of a child caught taking candy.
'Shayet he just want to have a talk with me. Remain put, I will just pick a shirt and leave with him'
'Good morning sir', she said slowly.
Johnson looked at the girl who had sent his son away from home. He knew he had to be nice to her. His son was overly protective of this one.
'Morning young lady'
Another knock sounded on the door and Tissan went to get it. She heard her mother's voice and groaned
'Is my daughter here?'
'Yes ma'
'How could you Tissan? You didn't tell me and I was so scared. Why weren't you picking your call?'
'I'm sorry ma, I slept off'
She pushed her way into the room and saw his father. She knew the man. He owned hotels across the country but she didn't give a damn.
'Young lady, you have no excuse for your actions, your siblings and I didn't sleep an inch because of you'
'I'm sorry mum'
'I don't ever want you sleeping in an hotel. Not even with Tissn here. Up with you, let's go home'
'I can't', she said.
Baboshia was a kept woman but she swore none of her daughters will be like her. She looked at Shayet,
'Were you drunk?'
'No'
'Eh ma, this is my father'
'I know that already Tissan. Morning sir. Please I need time alone with Shayet'
The men went out.
'Shayet, you shouldn't have slept with him in a hotel'
'I wanted to'
'I don't want you to end up like me. Please, marry him and do it right'
'I won't marry him'
'Why?'
'Nothing'
'Mother please go, I will be at home soon'
'Okay', she said and went out. She had been scared that something might have happened to her girl. When she left, Shayet left the bed to the bathroom


******
'Do you love her?', his father asked him over a cup of coffee
'Yes'
'Then why bring her to such a shabby place?'
'I brought her home and mother sent her away'
'And she said she is sorry'
'I don't want her sorry'
'Bring her home, your mum learned her lesson'
'Seriously dad, I love her and don't think she is cheap, no, she isn't. This is our first time together. I think its a start. I am a man and will come visit whenever I could. I'm not coming back home'
'your mum is ill'
'She has a husband'
'So you will continue staying at that inn?'
'I intend renting an apartment'
'Tissan?'
'Father'
'Does she know of your health condition?'
'I didn't tell her'
'She deserves to know. By the way, I thought the doctor said you need rest? Your mother will be appalled that you are having sex instead of resting'
Tissan stubbornly kept mute. By the time he returned to the inn, Shayet was gone. He showered and lay down, thinking of how to make her his wife.

*******
The next morning happened to be a sunday. Shayet was playing Ludu with her mum and siblings when a knock sounded at the door.
'Suchet, see who is at the door', Baboshia told her son.
Suchet stood up and went to the door. He saw a tall fair woman of fifty. She didn't even look at him. He stared at her because he felt she looked out of place in that neighbourhood.
'Is this Shayet Zabrang's residence?'
'Yes ma. Who are you?'
'Is that bastard at home?'
'She is my sister you know'
'In that case, you too are a bastard'
'I won't deny it'
'Tell her to come out'
Shayet came out. She greeted Tissan's mother and told her to sit down. The woman entered. Sat down and exchanged greetings with Baboshia and Kasham.
'Now Shayet, do you know that my son left home?'
'Yes'
'I need you to help me bring my son back home'
'I will talk to him'
'I don't want you to talk to him'
'What do you want ma?'
'I sent you away. He said he won't ever forgive me. You are invited to my house'
'What?'
'I prepared the room next to his for you'
'I can't'
'That's the only way he would come home. I am begging you as a mother'
'No'
Sarah planned it all. She vowed to make the girl come to the house. Tissan will return and get tired of her. Soon, the two will fight and then she would have her son back. Sarah burst into tears, telling them how it had taken her over ten years to have Tissan and how her in-laws nearly sent her packing. She apologized to Shayet and told her that she would die if her son refused coming home.
'I have forgiven you ma'
'I know Tissan more than anyone. He won't come back home unless I proof to him that I am truly sorry'
'How?'
'I sent you away, I am inviting you for an extended stay. Please, I need to get to know you more'
'I will think about it', Shayet said. Sarah took her leave, secretly vowing to get even with Shayet
Shayet thought out loud
'Sis, Tissan's's mother is weird you know'
'I do'
'Will you go stay with them?', Kasham asked
'No'
'What about Tissan, you were with him last night'
She didn't answer her fifteen years old sister. she was thinking of Tissan and the time they had. She didn't know what she felt for him yet but she knew she was no longer heartbroken and she had enjoyed the sex she had with him. She wore a red fitted gown and sandals
'Where are you going to Shayet?'
'Oh mother, I need to talk with Tissan about his mother'
'You are not permitted to spend a night'
'I won't'
She walked to his guest inn and knocked the door. He opened the door.
'Are you going out?'
'Yes, I wanted to visit you'
'Okay. May I come in?'
'Yes'
She entered and sat on the bed. He took the only chair.
'Your mum came to see me'
'Did she insult you again?'
'No. She apologized'
'Have you forgiven her?'
'Yes. She even invited me to the house'
'Okay'
'Tissan, please go back home'
'I won't. I'm a man'
'Please'
'Marry me'
'No'
'Why?'
'I don't know'
He left the seat and walked to the bed. Shayet began trembling. No, she shouldn't. No. Tissan saw her and the lust there. He kissed her and she responded. They had sex and she laid in his arms and began sleeping. If getting her pregnant will make her marry him, Tissan intended doing just that. By 5pm, he gently shook her awake.
'I don't want your mum charging in here. You should go'
'Yes, I should', she said and left the bed. Soon, he walked her home and gave her some money in an envelop
'What is it?'
'Money'
'I don't need your money'
'I just need you to do me a favour'
'what?'
'Can you cook for me? I wanna eat egusi'
'Why not buy it?'
'I'm tired of eating out'
'Okay. How much is there?'
'Five thousand naira'
'Two thousand naira will be okay'
He hugged her and left. The two became lovers for the next two weeks. Tissan asked her to marry him once more she refused and he never did bring the topic up again. He sometimes ate at her house. Soon, he became friends with her siblings. He didn't have a car so he walked and sometimes board public transport. Twice, he went with Shayet for job interviews and waited for her outside. It was wonderful but not once did she accept any gift or money from him. It was a new found friendship. A month went by after he left home, they were having s.x at his inn when he had an attack and blacked out. Shayet was shocked and scared.
'Hy, please wake up', she said slapping his cheek but he didn't move. She began sobbing as she ran to the bathroom and fetched a bowl of water. She emptied it on him but he didn't come through. She began sweating.
She wore her clothes and managed to put a short on him. her mum was the only one she could call.
'What is it?'
'Mum I don't know. Tissan, he just fainted'
'What?'
'Mummy, please come, I don't know what to do'
Her mum knocked on the door five minutes later. She saw him and her daughter's scared face.
'Shayet, we should take him to the hospital'
They hailed a taxi and rushed him down to Barau Diko specialist hospital. He was taken to an emergency unit.
'Did you come with his phone?'
'Yes'
'Call his parents'
'What should I tell them mum', Shayet asked in tears.
'The truth'
So Shayet dialed a number he saved with 'dad'. His father picked almost immediately
'You finally called'
'Sir its Shayet. I don't know what happened but Tissan fainted. My mum and I brought him to the hospital'
'Where?'
'Barau Diko'
'Okay, I am on my way'
Shayet cried her heart out. His parents came and Sarah rushed at her
'You want to kill my only child?'
'How?'
'Sarah, the last time you got involved, Tissan left home. Think about what you are doing', Johnson told his wife
'You've done enough damage Shayet, leave'
'I want to know what happened to him'
'We are his parents. Leave'


****
At home, Baboshia sat her daughter down and spoke to her.
'Listen to me, I know I started this but I need you to stop sleeping with Tissan'
'Why?'
'He is ill and they are hiding it'
'But mum'
'Shayet, I remember he said he was hospitalized last month'
'Yes'
'I saw the way his mum looked at you, if look could kill, you would have been dead. I know you two were having sex when everything happened'
'Mother...'
'I don't want him to die while with you. His mum won't let you go scot free'
'I can't mum. He is a friend I value'
'Then marry him, you don't want to be like me but you are being like me already. Marry him and have sex with him legally. You are not getting younger anyway. I think he has heart issues'
'Why didn't he tell me?'
The next morning, she was at he hospital and she found him awake. She rushed to him and hug him then kissed him.
'What is wrong with you?'
'My heart is failing. I have six months to live'
'No', she said in tears.
'Yes'
'Please let's get married. I want to spend these six months with you'
'Tissan!'
'Please don't say no', he said in a weak tune. His parents were all seated.
'I...I'
'Let's get married as soon as possible. Please'
'I can't'
'This is a request of a dying man. I am just twenty nine years old, but I will be dead in six months. I thought we shared something?'
'We did, Tissan'
'Then make my last days full of happiness'
'Shayet said yes because she was scared she would hurt his feeling if she said no and she felt pity for him. Tissan turned to his parents and smiled weakly.
'Shayet?'
'Yes?'
'I'm going back home. Will you come leave with me before the wedding?'
'Is that what you want?'
'Yes'
'We are not married'
'We will get married as soon as possible'
Okay'
He got discharged two weeks later. Shayet packed a suitcase and moved to the Johnson's. Sarah gave her the room next to Tissan. The room was very big and painted green. It has its own bath and closet. Shayet sat on the bed and felt so out of place. A knock came at the door.
'Come in', she said as Tissan entered
'How are you?'
'I am okay', he said and sat close to her. The two stared at each other. he was happy with his achievement and she was thinking he would be gone in six months. He kissed her and reached for the button of her dress.
'No, Tissan no'
'Why?'
'I can't. I'm scared'
'We shall be gentle'
'I can't'
'I miss you. Its been two weeks'
'No, please stop this nonsense'
'Have you forgotten we are getting married? You mean there won't be sex?'
'Yes. The doctor said you need rest'
'We shall get married next month. Did my mother tell you that we will start attending marriage classes?
'Yes. She said on monday'
'Yea'

*****
The month quietly slipped away. Shayet met Tissan's two close friends, Richard and Abrak. She couldn't help but to notice that his friends didn't like her but they were polite to her. Tissn's father was away most of the time overseeing his hotels across the country. As for his mother, it was also obvious she disliked Shayet but she didn't care. It was just for six months, she would be gone before they knew it.
She spent her days at home, reading and sometimes helping the maids and then visited her mum and siblings whenever she could. Never for once did she forget who she really was and that in six months, she would be out there, looking for a job. She had seen her dad the previous week, like before, they didn't even greet. She hated him with a passion. The funniest thing was that she became friends with her mum, all thanks to Tissan.
A week to the wedding, she had gone out to visit Suchet
whom had been down with malaria and was returning home when she ran into Richard. He was driving and stopped.
'If it isn't the lady who stole my friend from me'
'Hi Rich'
'Hop in, I wanna talk to you about something'
'What is it?'
'Its about Tissan'
She stepped into the car and he drove off.
'Where are we going?'
'To my house. I live in Barnawa, hope you won't mind?'
'Okay but I won't stay long'
When they got to a beautiful flat, he halted and led her in. Shayet sat on the cushion and he sat next to her.
'Please what is it?'
'Shayet, you are a beautiful lady. I lust for you and I assure you, I will pay you'
'What are you saying?'
'I want make love to you. I promise to be better than Tissan. Who much do you want?'
Shayet slapped him. She stood up and left but didn't make it to the door. He pulled her to him and kissed her. She raised her right knee and hit him on his groin. He let go of her and she ran out.
At home, she pretended all was well and couldn't bring herself to tell Tissan. After all, Richard was his best friend.
'Shayet?'
'Ma', it was Tissan's mother
'You will be married to my son in a week'
'By God's grace'
'Need I remind that there shouldn't be sex after the wedding? The doctors said he needs undiluted rest'
'I know ma'
'Good. Do you know how much we are spending?'
'I don't ma. Its not my place to ask but left to me, I will prefer a simple wedding'
The woman hissed and left. Shayet wandered why Sarah was telling her all those and not Tissan. The day came and Kasham played the chief maid of honour while Richard the best man.
'Kasham! Stay away from him, he is evil. Never you exchange numbers with him'
'Why?'
'You are not a kid. You are almost sixteen. Richard tried to force himself on me. Please promise me you will stay away from him'
'I promise'
The two said I do to the hearing of all at first Baptist church. The reception held at the hotel. Because the doctor said he shouldn't travel, Tissan and Shayet planned to stay a week at the hotel. They came into the room and a knock came at the door.
'Tissan, its me'
'Mother?'
'I need a few minutes with you'
He kissed her on the lips and departed. Shayet waited for like ten minutes but when he didn't show up, she removed her clothes and went in for a bath. She wore her night dress and was almost sleeping when he came into the room, very drunk.
'Tissan?'
'Yes?'
'You are drunk?'
'No thanks to you'
'What's the problem'
'I've changed my mind. Let's go home?'
'Home?'
'Yes'
'He held her hands and began walking to the door'
'Wait, I am in my nighty'
'It doesn't matter'
She didn't want to make a scene. She was at a lost as he led her away. Before she knew it, he took her to a car in which a driver was waiting. Shayet bit her lower lips as she tried to pretend to the driver she wasn't angry. At home, he held her hands and led her upstairs.
Once in his room, he locked the door and turned to her.
'Shayet, do you have any confession?'
'Like what?'
'That you went to Richard's house'
'Oh, that. He told you?'
'How could you?'
'He is just despicable'
'You opened these legs of yours for him of all the men in this world'
'I didn't'
'My mum told me. He confessed to her'
'Its a lie'
'My mum lied?'
'Yes, she never did like me'
'I love you Shayet'
'I swear that wasn't what happened. You are drunk, let's sleep. Tomorrow, we will talk about this'
'I called Richard, Shayet, he confirmed what mother told me'
'He is lying'
'Do you know why I brought you back here?'
'Why?'
'The maids had been given the night off. We are alone and you are now my wife. I intend teaching you lessons'
Before his intentions dawn on her, she felt his belt on her body. Shayet shouted. He beat her up mercilessly and when he was done, he sat on the floor and began weeping. Shayet lay on the bed and cried her eyes out. By morning, she couldn't find him, she picked her suitcase and went back home.
'You are not serious', her mum told her
'Look at my body, he beat me up'
'What did you do?'
She explained all that happened to her.
'Shayet, you are my daughter and I think I made you marry the wrong man but you can't stay here. I was a kept woman, what do you want people to say about us. It will ruin your sister's chance of getting married'
'What are you saying?'
'Its just for five months, tolerate him. When he finally dies, observe the mourning period and then come back home'
'No'
'I know, he deceived us all. When he dies, take nothing from them. I will be here for you. Do you know why? You will be back as a fulfilled woman. No one would question your movement back here.
'Mum...'
'Shayet, the society we live in is cruel to women. No one said a thing when my aunty mal treated me, no one said a thing when I stopped going to school, no one said a thing when I almost died of starvation. most importantly, no one said a thing when my aunty's brother forced himself on me, taking away my innocence. They all claimed its not their place to do anything

MISSOPTIMIST:
No dear. I will if I have to.

Okay. Go to your web browser and type okadabooks.com. Once it opens, click on the 'homepage' icon. You will immediately be tken to the homepage. Once there, you can register. It won't take you more than five minutes to registers. To buy an ebook, you will have to purchae etisalat airtime. Upload the digit on the plateform. That's the money you will use to purchase the stories you want. Let me know if you encounter anymore more problem

Bloomingbud:
And my fellow abusite is at it again, you have a beautiful storyline dear plus your characters reminds me of my Zaria days, names like kasham, kuyet, baboshia and likes. Ride gal, more inspiration to you.

By the way are you are southern Kaduna lady?

Cc: TiffanyJ

Lol. Where have you been ma'am? By the way, yes, I hailed from southern kaduna

MISSOPTIMIST:
Thanks dear.. I'll the four then.

Are you a registered member of okadabooks?

[quote author=Pearl05 post=58246920][/quote]Good evening ma, thanks a million for finding my story interesting.
I have to be honest with you, I used to sell the pdf copies of my stories at the rate of #500 each but that still didn't stop plagiarist so I opted for okadabooks. Its safer for me.
First, do you have an account with them?

I just sent you a mail. Check it

MISSOPTIMIST:
Nice work Tiffany. I want the series too. How can I get all three.

Click on my signature. They are links to purchasing the stores online. By the way, the complete series are four in number, not three

vickyviolet:
OK tnx alot

You are welcome, ma

Ebigbola:
Loving this story,plz ride on,but cant wait for next episode,always checking for update at up tenth time.

Sorry dear, till next week. I wrote at the beginning that updates will come twice a week

vickyviolet:
no I don't

Once you open an account with them, you will need to credit it by buying Etisalt airtime. When that is done, insert the digits nd upload. That is the money you will use to buy.

kreamy28:
Welcome Tffiany,when should we expect a story about Shan na.

Hmm. I've received mails from readers to give shan her own story. Maybe, when I am done writing this story, I will write about doctor shan

CHAPTER TWO

Shayet slowly forced her eyes opened. She felt the headache first before it occurred to her that she wasn't lying in the small bed she shared with Kasham. No she was in a large room. Very expensively decorated with a bed large enough to carry four people. Sunlight was streaming from the window. She tried to recall what had happened and what she was doing in a room like this and then she recollected it. Emmanuel had dumped her. She burst into tears. After about thirty minutes, she managed to dry her tears and take a look at herself. She was still in her clothes so she sighed in relieve. So Tisssan had brought her to his house? How dare him?
She placed her right foot on the expensive red rug and then the left one followed. Shayet adjusted her skirt and top then walked barefooted to a connecting door. She found a very neat and spacious bathroom well tiled in white. That wasn't her problem, so she went back to the other connecting door and found herself staring at a fully equipped living room decorated in blue. A large plasma television hung at the wall. She knew Tissan was rich but never knew he was so rich. This room was too lavishly decorated.
A door opened and Tissan walked in. He was in a blue chinos and a white polo shirt. He entered and smiled at her.
'Good morning Shayet'
'Morning, where are my shoes?'
'I kept them in my closet'
'Why did you bring me here?'
'You were drunk'
'So?'
'You should thank me, I didn't even take advantage of you. Come, I will order breakfast'
'Order?'
'Yes. I don't cook'
'She watched him picked his phone and dialed a number. Soon, he was speaking to someone.
'Rose I need breakfast in my room'
He ended the call and asked Shayet if she wanted anything in particular. She just stared at him and he called the lady back
'I will take tea, toast bread and eggs. Don't forget I have a guest here'
He ended the call again and switched on the television.
'Shayet, what happened yesterday?'
'Why do you care? Please have your breakfast and take me home'
She sat down on the blue and white sofa. A knock sounded on the door and Tissan opened it. A woman came in with their breakfast. She was in a uniform and a name tag on her left breast bosom. She smiled at Tissan and greeted Shayet.
'Goodness, mummy J, why didn't you send one of the ladies?'
'Nonsense Tissan. You never brought a girl here and I heard you did, yesterday. I needed to see her'
He laughed and hugged her. She looked intently at Shayet.
'Did she call you?'
'Who?'
'My mum'
'Yea, said you didn't sleep at home. Wanted to know if you were here'
Shayet said without thinking,'Tissan where is this?'
'Hotel'
'What? You brought me to a hotel?'
'Yes'
'Take me back home'
'Mummy J thank you', he said and ushered the woman out.
Shayet had never spent a night in a hotel. She believed only call girls did. She waited while he ate and bathed. She refused to even wash her face. As he led her out of the hotel, she observed that everyone seemed to know him and everyone stared at her. He knew most of the staff by name.
'What was happening?', she asked herself.
At home, she thanked him and stepped out of the car. She came in and found Kasham and Suchet drinking tea while her mum told them a story.
'Morning everyone', she called and was running to her room when her mum called her.
'What happened between you and Emma?'
'He dumped me', she snapped and kept going.
'Stop right there, young lady', Shayet stopped as Tissan knocked and entered.
'How could he do that to you? I am sorry Shayet'
'No, you are not sorry, you never liked him anyway'
'Don't say that'
Shayet broke into tears again. She looked at her mother and saw the woman who made Emma dumped her.
'Its all your fault mum, he couldn't marry me because of you'
'Shayet...'
'Let me be', she said and ran to her room. Her mother broke down in tears. Of all her children, she never got along well with her first. it was Suchet who ran to her and hugged her and told her Shayet didn't mean what she said. Kasham stared, they all knew their mother was a kept woman. Xavier stayed another thirty minutes and left. He went home to his momma.
'So you took that slut to the hotel?'
'She isn't a slut mum. Her name is Shayet'
'She is just like her mum'
'I don't care who her mum was, or was not, I want to marry her'
'You are a Johnson'
'I will stop being one if you don't help me get that lady'
'What are you saying?'
'She is the only thing that will keep me here. If I can't get her, I will leave this country. Please mum, get to know her, she is good'
Sarah stared at her son and knew he was serious. She knew him that much.


****
Tissan kept visiting the Zabrangs and in time, Shayet trusted him enough to play Ludo with him. He had watched her went through a heart break. She never asked him where he worked or if he had siblings, he never told her. Her mother made sure he paid Suchet's registration fees, he didn't mind. She sometimes begged him to drive her while she distribute her curriculum vitae. Emma got married and she got drunk on that night. He was at home with his parents when she called him.
'Hello?'
'Tissan, I need your help'
'Where are you?'
'The star'
'Are you drunk?'
'Just a little. Can you come drink with me? Of course I will pay'
He picked his car keys and drove out leaving his parents staring at him. He met her at the bar and also took a bottle.
'Where do you live?'
'Ungwan Rimi'
'Do you know that Emmanuel hurt me too bad?'
'I know', he said and paid the bill then helped her out of the bar to his car.
'Take me home', she said
But he didn't take her home, he decided it was time she knew where he lived. He drove to their family house. She was asleep by the time they got there and thankfully, his parents were asleep. He took her up to his room. She stirred and smile
'Make love to me'
He stilled and then quickly covered her body with a duvet. He bathed and slipped out of the room to the guest room. He called her mum and told her Shayet was with him
'I know that already. She didn't know yet but you are the only one meant for her. Can you make her pregnant? Maybe she would marry you'
'No, I can't do that ma'
'Okay'
And so he slept and thought of Shayet's words to him. He shivered and burrowed deeper under the blanket.

******
The next morning, she opened her eyes and found herself staring at a woman of about fifty. She was fair and tall. She blinked but didn't know the woman
'Please where am I?'
'Can't you greet?'
'Good morning ma, please where am I?'
Tissan came into the room at that moment. She saw him hugged the woman.
'Good morning mum'
Shayet was shocked. His mum? She couldn't say anything as Tissan went to the bed and place a kiss on her lips, it was the first.
'Hope you slept well Shayet?'
'She just stared.
'Tissan who is this?'
'Shayet'
'Oh, so you brought the sl.t into my house?'
'Mother...'
'Sl.t, listen to me, you have taken my son's time. I hardly even see him anymore. Your mum is a kept woman, you will follow in her footstep I can say. Stay away from my son and pitch your tent elsewhere'
'Mother...'
'Hush T-boy, what did you see in her? She is a bastard for crying out loud'
Shayet left the bed, wore her slippers and went through the door she saw Tissan and his mum came through. She was too blind to see the that the house was so beautiful. There seemed to be doors everywhere. She saw the staircase and blindly began descending. She bumped into a large figure but muttered her sorry.
'Who are you?', a deep voice asked
She looked up, her eyes filled with tears. The man wore a suit. He looked a bit familiar. He should be in his late sixties and she realized she was staring at Tissan's father.
'Who are you?', he asked again.
'A nobody. Good morning sir, please how can I find my way out?'
'Did Tissan bring you here?'
'I'm already leaving sir'
She said and began looking for her way out. She found a door and dashed into it, it was only the kitchen, the staff all looked at her silence. She ran out and went through another door opposite it, a study.
She came out and found the man looking at her.
'What is your name young lady and where is Tissan?'
Shayet was confused. All the doors were alike. She heard footsteps and then saw Tissan running down the stairs.
'Shayet, I am so sorry, please calm down'
She just kept crying and looking at the doors. Tissan went to her and held her hands. She hit him away.
'Shayet...'
She slapped him with all the rage inside her.
'I didn't ask you to bring me here Tissan. I had an almost perfect life before you came into my world. We are world apart. I don't ever want you in my house. Don't talk to me or call me'
'Shayet...'
'You brought me here to get insulted isn't it?, now show me the way out'
'Let me drive you'
'I said, I don't wanna ever have anything to do with you. I don't love you'
His mum came down with a smile on her beautiful face, holding Shayet's purse.
'Here, don't forget this', she said
Shayet retrieved her purse and stared at Tissan.
'The way out please'
He pointed at a door at his right and Shayet ran out like a girl chased by ghost. He slowly sunk in a chair. He felt like crying, not for anything, but for the lady he knew he just lost. After all the weeks of luring her. He heard his parents arguing but he didn't know why. He loved Shayet, his mother had poured sand in his tea. He wanted to shout, he couldn't. He couldn't breath. He just sat there. How could love be this hurtful? He thought? He stood up, and felt pain in his chest. He ignored it and kept walking but alas, the pain insisted. His parents were saying something but he didn't hear them. He felt himself falling and he thought of Shayet, the only woman he would ever love in his life. He welcomed the darkness that engulfed him.


******
Tissan spent a week at the hospital. His father was the only one he had allowed to visit him. The doctors said he worked too much and needed rest.
'Your son is good to go home now sir, but he will have to stop drinking for now and then come for regular check up'
'Thank you doctor', his father said as the doctor took his leave.
'Tissan, let's go home'
'I'm not going'
'You want to stay at the hotel?'
'No'
He walked to the car as his father's driver drove. He went home, saw his mother and remembered that fateful day.
'Tissan, welcome, I prepared your favourite'
He ignored her and kept walking up. He went to his room and stared at the bed, then remembered what she had said to him. He slowly walked to his closet and removed his box, packed some clothes and began walking downstairs. Seeing him, his mother began crying and begging him. He didn't even look at her. This woman had hurt him terribly.
'Tissan', he heard his father
'I can't stay here dad, it can never be home anymore'
'She is sorry, don't hurt her'
'She isn't', he said, picked his suitcase and left. He suddenly didn't even want a car anymore so he kept walking. He went to a guest house at Narayi, the place was a walking distance to Nicole's house so he paid with his debit card.
'How long will you be staying here, sir?'
'Two weeks', he said.


*******
'Shayet, can you help me out with this assignment?', phoebe asked her
'Please Kasham, go to Suchet, I am not feeling too good'
'You are still angry with mum?'
'Yes'
She went home that fateful day and began shouting and crying at her mum blaming her for everything. She locked herself in the room and cried her eyes out. She wasn't hurting anymore. A day before, she bumped into Emma at a store but she just looked passed him and her heart saw Tissan. She liked him, yes that was why, it was a good thing he didn't come to see her for a week. She was disappointed and relieve at the same time.
'Shayet, I said I am sorry', her mum said from the door way. She didn't answer her. She just kept looking ahead. A knock sounded. At their door.
'Come in', her mum called
There he was, in jeans and shirt. He looked at her and she looked at him. For the first time, she wanted to smile but knew she couldn't.
'Tissan, you haven't been picking my calls', her mum said
'Sorry ma, I couldn't help it'
'What happened?'
'I was in the hospital, got discharged today'
'Oh, come, I made yam'
He sat down and ate everything from his plates. Shayet stood up and went into her room, picked her purse and left the house. She came at 8pm to find him gone.
'Shayet', her mum called her
'Yes'
'It will be difficult to find a man that will love you as much as Tissan'
'Okay'
'I know you like him. Maybe with time, you will love him'
'What are you saying?'
'Marry him'
' No' she said and walked away.

******

Two weeks later, she was walking down a road. It had rained earlia and the road slippery. Shayet saw Tissan walking down the road. She quickened her steps because she didn't want to ever have to say a word to him. He too quickened his steps. She turned back to see how much distance she had put between them and then slipped.
He came running to her. Her white dress turned brown with mud. She felt like crying but couldn't. He helped her up.
'I know I am the last person you wish to see, I am begging you, allow me to help you. I lodged in starlight guest inn. Its closer. Come and wash yourself'
She couldn't say a word. She followed him in. Once inside, he showed her to the bathroom. She bathed, wondering why she followed him in. After bathing, she picked a towel and wrapped her body. It was a bit small but she had no choice. Maybe Tissan will agree to go home and pick some clothes for her. She came back to the room and found him sitting on the bed. He stared at her. She stared back. He had removed his shirt and was naked from waist up. She swallowed hard. What was happening to her? Her knees went weak. Emma was the only man she had ever been with.
'Maybe you should put on one of my shirts, I will go to a nearby boutique and get you some clothes', he said to her.
'Okay', she muttered. He went out and came in to find her in his shirt and the towel around her waist.
'Tissan?'
'Yes?'
'I thought of you a lot these days. I haven't been with a man since Emma'
'Okay'
'I want us to have sex'
'Shayet...'
'I am not my mother's daughter. I want no money from you. I am just Hot and need someone to be with'
'Are you sure Shayet? You won't hate me afterwards?'
'Yes, I saw the way you look at me. You want me and I respect you because you've never taken advantage of me'
He walked to her. He was so drunk in lust he felt like flying. He wanted it to be special because she was special. He picked her to the bed and made love to her. She was so willing that he tought he was dreaming. She cried her climaxed just as he reached his. They lay down, breathing hard.
'Thank you Shayet'
'For what?'
'This gift'
'Don't thank me'
'You know I love you, don't you'
'I guess so'
'Was I good?'
She smiled and nodded a yes.
'Can I ask you for a favour?'
'What is it?'
'I have a fantasy'
'What is it?'
'You with me, all night long'
'I can't. My mum...'
'I will tell her you are with me'
'No. It wouldn't be right. I have never spent a night with Emma'
'Okay, let's make it right. Shayet Zabrang will you marry me?'
'Stop it'
'I'm dead serious. I left home. I haven't spoken to my mother in three weeks and to my father in two. This world is always in the dark when you are not around but very bright whenever I am with you'
'Tissan!'
'I am sorry my mother told you all those hurtful things. you don't have to see her ever again. Let's go to Europe and start afresh'
'No', she said quietly. He said no more and soon heard her sleeping. He held her arms and watched her sleep. His phone rang, he didn't pick. He didn't want to spoil the beautiful moment. He slept peacefully, for the first time in months.
It was the knock at the door that woke them up the next morning. he assumed it was room service. He covered her body and wore his Jeans then yanked the door opened. Staring at him was his father
'Can I come in?'
'No. How did you know I was here?'
'I just knew'
'Okay'
'I want to talk with you'
'You can't come in, I'm with someone'
'Your mum is sorry Tissan. Please come back home'
'No, I like it here'
'Are you kidding me? This place is shabby'
'It isn't'
His father pushed his way in. He wanted to see for himself what was happening. Tissan just shut the door and came in. Both men stared at the bed and the woman in it. As if she felt it, Shayet eyes snapped opened
'Tissan what is your father doing here?'

brunxy:
Nice story...but the names u choose for the characters are weird and too similar. am confused with there names already, kuyet, sachet etc ...Next time use local names we can relate with...

Lol, you just succeeded in making me laugh my head off. Please bear with me, there are th only names you will come across.

vickyviolet:
no I don't

Okay. You need to create an account with them. Go to your web browser and type 'okadabooks.com' click on the first item on the page after it opens, you will be taken to the home page. There u can register. It won't tke you 5 minutes sef

vickyviolet:
I really love dis story and I must say u re talented










but d problem is I don't no how 2 buy story online I hv tried it so many times but I still can't do it pls if dere is another way 4 me 2 get d story let me no pls



.

am luking forward 2 ur reply pls

I am relly happy you find my story interested. Thank you. First, do you have an account with okadabooks?

arabaribiti:
My love nice story, how are you doing I sent my my email to your 2 lines.

Good morning. I received the mails o. Will reply you by evening because my ba3 is drained now

Precious111:
Sis are u going to post it on narialand or are you putting it on sale.

Good work TiffanyJ

The story will be posted on NL

CHAPTER ONE
'You should Marry Tissan, Shayet. We need his money'
'Sounds like you are selling me off like a piece of clothing, mother'
'I am not. You know that honey don't you? Your brother will miss his opportunity to study at the university'
'So I am the sacrificial lamb?', Shayet asked her mother
'Tissan loves you. Don't forget, I sacrificed myself for you to be a graduate. It's high time you do same for Suchet'
'You want me to sleep around for money like you?'
'I want you to Marry a handsome and rich man who loves you. At least, you won't have to fornicate with that rascal Emmanuel anymore'
'Its Emmanuel I love'
'Nonsense, why in the hell are you so blind? Emmanuel is just playing you'
'What do you know about love when you spent your life being a kept woman to every Harry in town?'
Baboshia stood up from the chair she was occupying. She walked across to Shayet, who was slumped in a chair and slapped her, twice just as Suchet came into the room.
Suchet was tall, fair, at twenty one. He looked from his mother's angry face to his elder sister's eyes filled with tears which she wouldn't let fall.
'What is the problem mother? You just slapped Shayet'
'Yes, and I don't regret it a bit. Speak disrespectfully at me again and I will beat you up Shayet. Just so you know, I don't care what you think of me anymore. Of all my kids, you are so self centered like your bastard of a father. You don't have to marry Tissan if you don't want to. Just stay out of my way...'
'Mother please don't call my father into this. I didn't choose him, you did, of all men, you chose a foolish man to be my father' Shayet shouted in tears
Baboshia slapped her again, as hard as she could. 'Get out of my sight before I strangle you'
'Mother I can't stand this anymore. You and Shayet are always fighting. Now its because of me. Hear this Announcement, I don't want to school. I will not have my sister marry a man she does not love for me, I will not have my mum and my sister fight over me. No, I will get a job and help in the upkeep of the house', Suchet said calmly
'You will go to school Suchet' Baboshia and Shayet chorused.
'No, I won't', he said and walked out
Shayet and her mother stared after him. Baboshia broke down in tears. Shayet went to her but she shrugged.
'Just let me be Shayet'
'I am sorry mother'
'No, you are not. How could you tell me all those hurtful words after I called all three of you and told you the story of my life. Suchet and Kasham understood me, not you. Why are you bend on making me remember the past I had?. Yes, I was a kept woman, yes I have three kids and none shared a father and yes I love you all equally to a point of distraction, I can't bear you telling me hurtful words. If you know you won't curb your mouth when you are with me, please move out. You are twenty-five and a graduate. You can take care of yourself'
'Mother, I'm so sorry. Please do forgive me'
Shayet felt a bit sorry for her mother. She knew Baboshia's story too well. Baboshia's Parents died when she was thirteen. No one wanted to be saddled with a teenager, all those friends and relatives she thought she had disappeared. All but one...uncle Ade. Uncle Ade was her father's cousin working as an accountant with ministry of finance. He took her in and enrolled her in a school. For the two years she lived with him, Baboshia found a little peace. He was hardly at home but he made sure her school fees were paid, there was always food in her stomach and she was properly clothed. These basic needs never erased the emptiness in her heart nor the loneliness.
Her life took another turn when uncle Ade announced he was getting married. The wedding took place a bit too soon and six months later, her new aunty was put to bed with a baby girl. After her birth, Aunty Norman began showing her true colours. She hit Baboshia at any given opportunity. Surprisingly, her uncle didn't seem to care. Soon, her aunty began starving her and calling her names. Baboshia was asked to drop out of school in order to help take care of baby Tessy. At seventeen, she hardly even had clothes anymore. She was a full blooded house girl with no education.

Baboshia ran away from home when her aunty's brother paid them a visit and one night forced himself on her. She became a street girl. She met a man, a married man who promised to pay her fees and marry her. That was her chance and she jumped into it. True to his words, he rented a two bedroom flat for her and she lived there as his mistress. Jonas promised to divorce his wife and marry her. Two months later, she discovered she was pregnant. Jonas treated her like a queen and even began making plans for her to return to school after she is put to bed but fate wasn't on her side. She was three months gone when Jonah's wife of ten years took in. His attention was divided. A woman he thought was barren proved him wrong. When Baboshia was put to bed and little Shayet appeared, the disappointment was written all over his face. He hardly came for a visited any more. Three months later, mrs Jonas was delivered of a baby boy. That was it. Jonas stopped coming and went back home to his wife. A few months later, the landlord began knocking on her door. Heartbroken and confused, she was only nineteen. A banker offered her a house in return for sexual favours. She agreed, not minding the wagging tongues. Where were they when her aunty maltreated her and where were they when she was defiled at seventeen? They kept saying it was none of their business, now it was their business that she was now a 'prost.tute' as they termed her.

For two years, she remained Aliba's lover, but her baby was well fed and clothe. That alone was fulfillment. She took in, and little Suchet greeted the world. Her banker friend stuck around and even enrolled Shayet in a school. Her time was up when he was transfered to another state. He promised to go look for a house and send for them but he never did came back. It took her six months to realize he wasn't coming back. Alone, with two kids to fend for made her cry every night. She tried getting a job to no avail. No one around wanted to hire her and the fact that she had no qualifications never helped her. She managed for a few years and then, her knight in shining amour appeared. Yes, Kuyet was an engineer who fell hopelessly in love with a kept woman. He not only loved her, he was the next thing to a father Shayet and Suchet ever hoped for. He always made sure there was food on the table for everyone and that his lover's kids went to school.
At some point, Shayet came to love and respect him like a father. He often took them out and spoil them with gifts and to Baboshia surprise, he honestly loved her kids. He would had married Baboshia but his family won't hear of it. His old man specifically forbade him from marrying a 'prost.tute'. It was with joy that Kuyet announced to them over dinner one evening that Baboshia was expecting.
'Shayet, Suchet, you will soon have a new sibling. Your mother is pregnant'
'What?' Shayet asked
'You should be happy for us. Or are you upset choco?' Choco was his nick name for Shayet
'I'm not upset uncle Kuyet, aren't you going to marry mum?'
Kuyet sighed sadly, ' you all know I love your mother but you also know that I would have married her if not for...'
'Your family', Suchet put in.
There was an uncomfortable silence. Nevertheless, a few months later, he moved them to a three bedroom flat. When little Kasham appeared, Kuyet was the happiest. He began sometimes sleeping over, Neither Shayet nor Suchet cared, he was too good a man.

Shayet was in her second year at the university when the cold hands of death took him, Kasham was eleven. He had an accident on his way back from a contract job at Kogi state. His family wouldn't even let Baboshia and her children attend the burial ceremony. They fought and accused her of putting Kuyet in a spell that wouldn't let him even marry nor have a child.
'But he has a child. Kasham is his', Shayet stated
'Never, we will never acknowledge this bastard as Kuyet's child. She is not part of us. We know our brother owned this house, we want you out, in three days', his elder sister hatefully spite out.

Lawyers appeared the next day and said that Baboshia and her kids must be there for the reading of the will. He willed the flat to Baboshia and put enough money for Shayet to graduate from school. To Suchet he gave his gold wristwatch and laptop and to Kasham, a sum of money will come to her when she clock twenty-one.
'Baboshia my love, I am destined to love only one woman, you. Get a job, I trained you in catering, work honestly and help the kids through school', the lawyers had read and Baboshia burst into tears.
Kuyet had told Shayet to take care of Suchet and Kasham. His family contested but a will is a will and they were not given a choice.
'I will never sell this watch, it is priceless', Suchet had proudly declared.
'I'm with you on this one Suchet. It will remind you of a good man we had' Shayet put in.


*******
'Young lady I am talking to you', her mother's hand brought her back from Kuyet.
'Mum, uncle Kuyet would want me to get a job and help out. I promised him that'
'I know sweetheart but you tried already. Look at you, you have finished serving your father land and have been going helter skelter without a job. You really tried Shayet, paying Kasham's fees twice with your allowance, buying the Joint admission and matriculation form for Suchet and helping out with our feeding. I am a good caterer but these days, I hardly get any job again'
'Don't worry ma, I will just keep trying'
'You know, I know you didn't buy clothes for yourself when you were serving'
'I don't need clothes now. I need a job'
'Talk to Tissan, he will help you secure a good job'
'No'


*******
'I am in love', Tissan told Richard over dinner that evening.
'No, you are head over heels in lust', Rich replied
'I will marry her'
'And when you get tired of her?'
'I won't, she is different from them all'
'What makes her different? Are you blind or are you the only one in Sabo that doesn't know that she is a bastard and into a sexual relationship with a man so poor like her?'
'I know'
'Good, your mum will disown you'
'Will you stop it? I don't care about my mother, she always treats me like a child'
'You are her only child, what do you expect?'
Tissan kept mute, thoughts of Shayet clouded his memory. He first saw her while she was in her final year at the university. He had gone to visit a friend of his dad who was a lecturer at the state University. She had walked past him in her haste to go for a lecture. He had never believed in love at first sight but Shayet proved him wrong. He went back home thinking of her. Shayet was of average height, she was dark in colour, somewhat chocolate. Her face was oval in shape and her teeth small and firm. She had small bosom,her hips were not too wide but just okay. It wasn't as if she was more beautiful than the ladies he had, no, but to Tissan, she was the most beautiful. The way she walked, smiled and composed herself had done him in.
He found himself driving to the state university the next day and chanced upon her with some students in her department. He heard her laugh. It was so rich and full of melody and to his surprise, he decided there and then to know her better.
He seek her out a week later, as she was leaving school, offering her a ride but she politely declined. He observed that her clothes were not expensive, but they were neat and ironed well.
'I insist on giving you a ride' he had told her
'No'
'Why?'
'You are a stranger'
'I'm not, I know you'
'What is my name?'
'Shayet Zabrang. Micro biology , final year, 3. 6'
Shayet looked shocked he knew even her Grade he saw her stared slyly at him
'You a student?'
'Nope, actually, I asked around, you are quite popular'
'Bye mister'
But he had followed her and saw her house. He began stalking her without her knowledge. When he asked her neighbors about her, he got the shock of his life.
'Who? Shayet? That bast.rd that thinks she is good? Her mum have three kids, non shared a father...she is the neighbourhood prostitute', a pharmacist told him.
Tissan asked around and realized it was the truth. No one had anything good to say about her family. He went back home and stopped stalking her, but he knew he made a mistake when he couldn't sleep at night. On the third day, he continued. He watched her and her boyfriend walked and kissed but he was a patient man.
A month after their encounter, he asked her out, she refused without thinking twice.
'Why?' He had asked her
'I have a boyfriend I love'
Tissan was bold enough to seek her out at home and to his surprised, her mum was extremely good to him. He knew his money was to blame but he couldn't help try to bribe the mother.
Shayet was in the National Orientation Camp in Jos when he explained to her mother that he would love to marry her.
'Why?'
'I love her'
'You know her background?'
'I don't care about that, I really do love her and will treat her well'
'That is wonderful, in that case, she will marry you'
'That guy I often see her with'
'Emmanuel, he is not good for and doesn't love her. I can see you love her, I'm not blind'
He became a regular visitor to the Zabrang home but Shayet didn't even usually notice him.
******

Shayet loved and slept with only one man, Emmanuel. She hated her mother's profession and swore to never end of like her. She couldn't deny that Tissan was handsome but her love had already been taken. She loved only Emmanuel, he wasn't rich, he was a teacher but she loved him and he had promised her marriage. She knew her mother had been collecting money from Tissan and it annoyed her. Why was her mum so bent on making them look low.

She slowly applied make-up on her face and left the room in a red skirt and black top. At the living room, she found herself staring at Tissan. Well, that was his cup of tea, he should keep wasting his time.
'Good evening Tissan', she said in a cheerful tone.
'Good evening Shayet', he answered back, quietly.
'Going out?', her mum who had been watching the TV asked her.
'Yes'
'Where to?'
'Emmanuel'
'Oh, in that case, I need you to do a favour for me'
'What is it?'
'Please go with Tissan to the ATM machine, he will give you some money for me'
'But I just said I want to visit Emma'
'I'm not stopping you. Get the money and then go see him, I will get it from you when you returned'
'Whatever'
'So?'
'Okay'
Tissan said a good night to the mother and went out to his car with Shayet at his heels. She boarded the car and looked out of the window.
'Fasten your seat belt'
She looked at him, then fastened it. Shayet's thought drifted to Emma, he knew about her mother, yet he loved her. Soon, they would get married. He was a foot shorter than Tissan and unlike Tissan, Emma was fair and chubby. He knew about Tissan and was at first angry. It took her weeks to convinced him that she felt not a thing for Tissan and that he visited her mum not her.
'And your mum hate me' he had told her.
'She doesn't. Don't worry, she would get used to you'
'You should visit my home often, it will bring you two together. You can even be friends with my siblings
'I will try'
That was over three months ago. He had never tried. Shayet was scared of loosing him if she complain too much so she didn't.
She tried calling Emma to let him know she would be late but his line was unavailable. There will be trouble if she were late.
'Tissan, please can you do me a favour?'
'What?'
'I need to let my boy friend know that I would be a bit late. I tried calling him, but network is bad'
'So?'
'His house is in the other street. Can you just stop by for a few minutes?'
Tissan, gripped wheel the masked his emotions and spoke, quietly, 'give me direction to his house'
'Thank you'
She did and within minutes, his Siena was parked in front of a house with a black gate. Shayet alighted.
'I will be back, soonest'
'Okay'
She walked into the compound to Emma's apartment. He lived in a one bedroom flat. She pushed the door to his living room, it was empty so she walked into his room and began crying.
The love of her life was there, with another lady. They were kissing and smooching on the bed. Shayet thought she was dreaming, she pinched herself and more tears flow with the realization that she truly wasn't dreaming.
'Emmanuel?', she cried.
'Damn, what are you doing here?', he said on sighting her.
'What sort of question is this?'
'Please leave my house?'
'What? Its me Shayet, your love'
'No, this is my love, Nene', he said pointing at the light skinned lady by his side.
'My love, I thought you said you've stopped seeing this bastard?'
'Yes, she just doesn't understand that it is over'
'Emma, what is happening here?', Shayet asked.
'What is happening is that I am getting married next month to my beautiful lady over here'
'What? You said you love me'
'I don't love you. Do you know how ashamed I have always felt? Walking around town with a bastard? I never did visit your home because I am ashamed to be seen going into a harlot's lair'
'Oh my God, after all these years?'
'Please get out and never return. How can I explain to my parents that I am marrying a bastard? Nene here is perfect, and my parents love her, I love her, you, I don't'
'Emma?'
'Get out or I will forcefully drag you out. You will end up like your mother, I know it. Well, you are invited to our wedding, twenty second of next month'

Shayet couldn't bear it anymore, she ran out of the flat and into Tissan's car. He watched her and wondered what had happened. He couldn't explain why her tears hurt him but he dared not say so.
'Shayet what happened?'
'Nothing'
'You can't just said nothing, you are crying'
'I need a drink, take me to a bar'
'Your mum sent you on an errand'
'I don't care, if you won't take me, I know the way'
She said and alighted the car. Tissan looked at the time, it was late and it won't be right for her to be out there alone. He drove and followed her. He halted in front of her and opened the door.
She walked past him and he had to alight and follow her.
'Okay, I heard you, I don't know what happened in there, I won't ask and you musn't tell me. Come with me, you can drink and then I will drive you home when you are done. Don't forget its late and you are alone'
Shayet blindly followed him to the car. He stopped at starlight bar and she began drinking and crying. He just watched her and when he realized she was getting drunk, he tried stopping her but she won't hear of it. By 9pm, her phone rang, it was her mother, he picked and told her what happened and that he would take her home. He didn't take her home, he text her mum and told her that Shayet was not in a condition to go home, he would take her to the hotel.
He drove her to the hotel and picked her to his suit. He removed her shoes and covered her sleeping body with a duvet, bath and went to the living room. He looked at the sofa and knew he would have to make use of it.

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The characters bear names of southern kaduna origin.