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Perfectdanny:
Tiffanyj . Good evening ma. Please will the story still continue?

Sorry to inform you that this story will not continue.

*******
'Daddy?'
'Yes pumpkin?'
'May I sleep with you and mummy tonight?'
'Why would you want to sleep with us when you've got your room?', Jake asked her.
'I feel alone and scared in my room'
Joel sighed. Its been a week he had made sure Victoria stopped sleeping with them. He was taking his time with Maureen. She was still angry with him and also not talking to him unless Victoria was around.
Since Victoria stopped sleeping with them, Maureen would had began really avoiding him in the day. At night, she stayed up late at the nursery, return almost tired, and then enter the bathroom which she always never forgot to lock from inside. She would return into the room with a virginal nightgown. Jake hated the night gown. He knew she was deliberately trying to ward him off with the long, over size and ugly gown. He once complained and she had told him in no uncertain terms to relocate to another room if he doesn't want to ever see it again. At that time, he had wisely kept mute.
Jake sighed again. Maureen was now sleeping as far away from him as she could and the bed wasn't helping matters. It was simply too big for what he had in mind. The boys were already seven weeks old and he didn't know how to get to his wife.
Jake sighed again. The so called marriage they had was not legal. They didn't even have a certificate as the priest refused to issue them one. The priest insisted he was under duress and that was not how he was taught to carry a wedding ceremony. If they want to get married, they should come to him, attend classes and do it the way others had done it. This was one secret Jake would guide with his own life. He made his father promised to tell no one. Not even Henry because Jake was scared that Maureen would hop and leave him once she realized that they were still single. He would marry her, but that would be after they've cleared the misunderstanding that is now threatening their relationship.
'Daddy? Please'
Jake was jot back into reality. He picked Victoria up and swing her around. Her laughter echoed the whole room. Once she was on her feet, he smiled at her and for the first time, Victoria looked sad.
'Pumpkin what is it?', he asked, surprised at the change in her behaviour.
'Your smile just like Victor. I miss him daddy'
Jake sighed and picked her up to sit on his lap.
'I miss him too pumpkin, but I know that Victor is in heaven and he would want you to be happy'
'Really?'
'Yes. He would want you to take care of your mummy, Evan and Ethan. Will you do this for him?'
'Yes. But daddy?'
'Yes?'
'Can't I also go to heaven and be with Victor?'
'No pumpkin, you can't. At least not now. aren't you happy here with us?'
'I am but...'
'Sweetheart, if you die, I will never survive it'
Maureen pushed the door to the room and fumed. Only three things separated Victoria from Jake. When she was in school, when Jake is bathing or dressing and when its time to sleep. Everyone knew that Victoria worshiped her father and he had rewarded her by giving her all the attention she seeks. The nanny hardly does anything as jake bath and dressed her for school. Goodness, Maureen couldn't take it anymore.
'Victoria, go to your nanny, I need to speak to your daddy'
'No'
'Victoria?'
The girl laid back in the bed. Jake only stared at Maureen who glared at him. Telling him with her eyes that he should tell Victoria to leave.
'Maureen, victoria is just a kid. You can just say whatever you want to'
'I can't. Its something not meant for her ears. Tell her to leave'
'Sweetheart, your mummy and I need to talk. Go to your nanny'
That was when Victoria decided to leave the bed. Maureen looked in horror. After all these years, this is how this child would pay her? She would disrespect her mother and side with her father?
As the girl got to the door, Maureen tested her daughter further,
'Sweetheart, tell your nanny to change you out of that dress. Its a bit dirty'
'The girl, stared stubbornly at her mother. 'No, I won't'
'What?'
'Mummy, I don't want to change this dress. Daddy loves it'
Maureen turned to Jake. 'Jake?'
'Pumpkin, your mummy is right, tell your nanny to change you out of that dress'
'Okay daddy'
That was when Maureen lost it. She picked the girl, sat down on the bed and held her over her knee. So angry she wasn't thinking right. On her part, Victoria was kicking and crying to her daddy for help.
'Now sweetheart, I will teach you never to disrespect your seniors. No one, not even your nanny who had been complaining for the past two weeks'
Maureen removed the dress from the girl, leaving her in just her panties and raised her hands hard on the girl's buttocks who screamed in pain.
'Maureen? What are you doing?', Jake asked
'I am spanking her and you stay away from this Jake. I refused to raise a spoiled girl'
Again, Maureen brought down her hands on Victoria, again and again and again'.
'Will you disrespect me again?'
'No mummy I won't. I am sorry', the girl shouted back.
That was when Maureen allowed her on her feet. She ran to Jake and he held her to him as she sobbed. A knock appeared at the door and the nanny came in.
'Take victoria to her room, bath her, fed her and put her in bed'
'Yes ma'am'
Slowly, the girl tried to follow but she realized she couldn't walk. She stared at her mother in fear but the nanny took her and left the room. Once alone, Jake turned to Maureen.
'That's bad. There are different ways to tackle a stubborn child'
'You have no right to caution me. I am her mother'
'And I am her father. she will only fear you'
'Good. Get out of this room Jake, you are the last person I want to see at the moment'
'I am disappointed at you Maureen'
'You never wanted her, when I was carrying them in Lagos, you treated me like a piece of trash and called them my kids. Where were you when she was having tooth ache? Where you when I had to rush her to the hospital on several occasion? Where were you when she had chicken pox? Where were you when I was suffering for her all these years? Five years Jake? All of a sudden, you return and she does only what you asked? You saw her disrespect me what did you do? You sat there and did nothing'
'Maureen, we need to discuss this like adults'
'There is nothing to discuss Jake. Just don't teach me how to parent my own child. If only Victor were here, he wouldn't treat me like this'
The mere thought of Victor brought a sob from her. She dejectedly left the room and walked to the back of the house, where Anthony had insisted Victor should be buried. There, Maureen got a chair, covered her face in her hands and sobbed her heart out. Victor knew when she was sad, he knew when she needed him and would protect her from harm. Victoria on the other hand, is a smaller version of Maureen. Carefree, stubborn and manipulative.
She sat there for over five hours and hugged herself when she began feeling cold. She knew the kids would need her but she was tired and didn't care.
'Let me get you inside', she heard Jake said from behind her.
'Go away', she shot at him
'You missed lunch and its almost time for dinner'
'I am not hungry'
'Someone is here to see you'
'Tell whoever it is to go away'
'Maureen', he said and kissed the back of her neck.
Slowly, he helped her out of the chair and into the house where she saw her brother and his wife waiting. Joel immediately knew there was a problem.
'Well, she made her bed. She will have to sleep in it. Whether she liked it or not', he thought.
'Maureen what happened?', Mich asked, holding a toddler in her hands.
Maureen couldn't speak, she simply sat down on the sofa and stared at the child walking timidly towards her. She stopped in front of Maureen and Maureen looked away.
Victoria turned slowly to her father who urged her forward. He had sat her down and explained to her that her mummy was very sad because Victoria disrespected her. He had quietly told his girl to go downstairs and apologize to her mummy. Victoria didn't want to but she dared not tell him that.

'Mummy?'
'Yes?'
'Mummy, I am so sorry I disrespected you and made you cry'
'Go to your room victoria'
Slowly, so as not to get another spanking, she walked to her room.
'Maureen you just hurt her feelings. She apologized', Jake put in.
'No'
'What is going on here?', Joel asked.
Jake explained everything that had happened that day to Joel. He didn't spare himself, in fact, he agreed that he too had his fault but was perplexed that Maureen was still angry with Victoria even after the poor girl apologized.
Joel looked disdainfully at his sister. Her daughter acted exactly as Maureen had, when she was her age.
'Maureen, why are you angry with the poor girl? It isn't her fault, she simply inherited the trait from you'
'How could you say that Joel?'
'At her age, you were worse. I almost hated you Maureen. Do you know why? You have always been the bone of contention between our parents. People around thought I spoiled you but we both know that's not true. Father spoiled you. Mother dared not touch you and he would pick a fight with her. When you were ten, you told mother something that made her cry her heart out', Joel spat
'Stop it Joel'
'The truth is bitter? You must hear it. You refused to wash the cup you drank tea and when mother tried to force you, you told her that she can't touch you and when she does, you will tell father and he would not eat her food', Joel was too angry to stop.
Jake and Mich stood looking in awe.
'Joel just leave my house, now'
'Sure I will little sister. Our past seem to have a way to catch up with us, doesn't it?. Now you are just beginning to have a taste of your own medicine and you are crying? Mother loved father. They were so in love before you came but then, you broke them apart with your manipulation. You've always been like this from age three, when you began to realize that father adored you'
'You are just being wicked', She said
'Am I? Look around you Maureen? You've hurt everyone around you. You don't even have a friend apart from Kemi. Tara, Linda, Jordan, Henry, even Mich was not spared out'
'Goodness Joel, whatever is wrong with you?', Mich asked her husband.
'Let's go home Mich', he said, stared hard at his sister and walked out of the door. Mich, not knowing what to say, followed her husband out.



******
'Darling, let's talk about what happened today', Jake told her.
'Nothing happened'
'Not to me'
'Go away Jake', she said as she managed to feed the twins. The pain in her bosom and water that was dripping reminded her that twins were not fed for far too long. She was feeding Evan when Jake came into the room. Slowly, Jake went back to the room. He would wait for her there and she would not avoid him. He won't let her avoid him, ever again. Once in the room, he removed his shoes and waited for her to come in.
She did came in ten minutes later and was not surprised to see him in bed. She went for a pair of pajamas and with it securely in her arms, went in for a bath. She returned, fully dressed and Jake, without looking at her left the bed and went into the bathroom.
Maureen heard the shower running but she simply laid in her side of the bed and pretended to be asleep when he returned. She couldn't pretend anymore when she heard him began to whistle. She sat up and glared at him.
'Jake?'
'Yea?'
'I need to sleep. Please stop making that noise' she said but couldn't help stare hungrily at him.
Here he was, this husband of hers, standing, with a towel around his waist, with water dripping from his body. To Maureen, he was a god. She would have forgotten everything and lick the water from his body if not for the fact that he was also staring surprisingly at her. Slowly, so as not to betray her emotions, she looked away.
'You can look your fill Maureen. I will never complain'
'Go to hell'
'We are married Maureen'
When she didn't respond he removed the towel and wiped his body. He caught her looking at him when she thought he wasn't looking. Well, he was more than ready for her. He would see who would win this game.
Jake threw the towel in the bathroom and quietly laid down to sleep, as far away from her as he could.
'What are you doing?', she asked
'Sleeping of course'
'You are sleeping nude?'
'Is there a problem with that?'
'Yes'
'Care to discuss the problem?'
'It is very wrong. Victoria may walk in on us'
'Victoria is sleeping in her own room. You know me well enough Maureen. I don't sleep with my clothes on'
'You've been doing that lately'
'That's because Victoria was sleeping with us. When she left, I decided to give you time to get used to sharing the bed, again'
'I refuse to take this'
'Stop pretending darling. Why are you claiming innocent? That's silly if you ask me. We are no strangers, we are lovers and we have a child who would soon be five and two beautiful boys in the connecting room. Stop behaving like a school girl and sleep'
She swallowed and laid down but sleep eloped from the room. Two lovers just lay down in bed and each pretended to be asleep while hearing the clock tick. Three hours later, she heard a wail from the connecting room and knew it was time to feed her kids. She slowly left the room to her kids. That was when jake sighed. She returned and looked at her sleeping husband, and then she felt so hot she ran to the bathroom and poured water over her body. When she returned, with a towel around her, he was still sleeping. She sighed, slipped back into her pajamas and laid down.
That was when Jake made a move. He turned to her side and then slowly drew her to him. Without giving her a chance to reject him, he began kissing her neck, and her ear. She turned to protest but couldn't.
'Darling, just tell me you don't want me and I won't touch you'
'I...'
he wouldn't even let her decide. They've been without each other for far too long and their love making was the wildest Maureen could remember. Afterwards, they lay together, satisfy and happy, in each other arms.
'Jake, I think you should...'
'Hush, darling. Say nothing, this moment is too wonderful and perfect for us to fight again'
She said nothing and slept her heart and problems away. Jake kissed her cheek and glanced at the clock, it was 4pm. He couldn't believe they were both so stubborn.
The door opened by 6:30am with Victoria. She stared at her parents. this was the first time she had seen them like this, her father and mother held each other in sleep and then she saw her mummy's clothes on the floor and went to pick it up for her. She packed the clothes, and took them to the closet when her father stirred.
'Victoria?'
'Daddy good morning'
Jake swore and then sighed in relieve when he remembered that they were covered with a duvet. Maureen stirred too and was shocked to see her daughter.
'Mummy, good morning'
'Morning sweetheart. Aren't you going to school today?'
'I am'
'Then go to your nanny, I will be on my way'
'Mummy, I forgot to tell daddy that a very beautiful lady was at my school yesterday. She said to tell daddy to call her and she loves him'
Jake froze. Maureen stared.
'Go to your nanny' , when the girl left, Maureen attacked Jake.
'You had other women'
'I don't. I swear Maureen I don't'
'If I remember correctly, you are an addict'
'I checked myself into rehab before coming back that first time'
'Who is she?'
'I don't know'
The next day, Maureen was helping Victoria do her homework when a piece of paper slipped from the book. She opened it and read it.
'Sweetheart, please come back to me. I love you more than that Maureen of yours. Guess what? I am pregnant for you'
Maureen let the tears fall. She was such a fool.
'Where did you get this Victoria?'
'That beautiful lady said to give my daddy'
Jake strolled into the room and Maureen threw the paper at him.
'Maureen!'
'Swear to me you didn't touch another woman when you left'
Jake couldn't swear. He was speechless. His mother had succeeded. She had ruined him. He remembered being drugged and sleeping with a lady. It happened three times. Goodness, a stranger was carrying his child.
Maureen walked out and Jake followed her out.
"Please let me explain'
'Don't you dare'
'I was drugged'
'I have no time for more lies'
'Maureen, I will tell you everything. Just listen to me'
'I refuse to. Now listen again, I can't afford for my daughter to be dragged into your mess. I will pay her school a visit. Why would the school allow a strange woman close to my daughter?'

Jumizie13:
please, has anyone seen Tiffanyj lately

I am right here dear. Will update lter in the day. How are you doing?

Happy hollidays everyone and to my muslim brothers and sisters, Barka da sallah.

Maureen returned to the room to found Jake and Victoria in the bathroom playing with water. He was striped to his shorts and the girl was giggling as he soaped her body.
'Goodness Jake, she will catch cold'
'She won't'
'And if she does?'
'Mummy, I won't catch cold'
'You two are playing with water!'
'We are not. See, I am bathing her'
'My bathroom is a mess'
'Our bathroom Maureen. Don't worry, I will send a maid to take care of it'
Maureen fumed. He seemed to have answers to everything. She looked at Victoria nd realized that this was the first time the girl was really laughing since Jake left. Everyone who knew Victoria and Jake well knew that there was a very special bond between father and daughter. A bond that Maureen sometimes jealous. Imagine? She was so jealous of her own daughter. At times, Maureen felt as if Victoria would choose her daddy over her mummy when given the chance.
She fumed again and turned to leave when Victoria stopped her.
'Mummy? Will you join us?'
'No sweetheart'
'But why?'
'I am tired'
'I know. You bath every night before sleeping. Won't you bath today?'
'I will, just as soon as you and your daddy make the bathroom available'
'Pumpkin, maybe your mother wants me to bath her'
The girl's eyes went wide with wonder. Her mother's own eyes flared in anger.
'But mummy can bath herself'
'I can also bath her'
'Don't you dare fill her little mind with your lustful thoughts'
'What's lustful mummy?'
Father and mother looked at their daughter who only stared bewildering at them. Jake giggled, then to Maureen he said.
'Now who is filling Victoria's ears with adults talk?'
Maureen stormed out of the bathroom. Jake turned to Victoria. Your mother said 'lost' it means, not find something that belongs to you'
'Like when I can't find my doll last week?'
'Very smart girl'
Maureen heard all that they were saying. She kept fuming and pretended to be reading. She heard Jake said,
'Now, I guess we should leave this place or your mummy will really be mad at us'
'Why is mummy always mad?'
'Because she wants the best for us. Now here is a towel for you'
'Its for mummy'
'She won't mind'
She heard the door opened and they emerged. Victoria ran to her and hugged her, forcing Maureen to pretend a smile. She pretended not to care when Jake went out and returned with a pyjamas. Giggling, Victoria wore it while chatting with her father. Telling him about school and her teacher. He was listening, attentively.
'Come sweetheart, let me make for you a cup of hot warm tea'
'Okay daddy'
'Wait for me downstairs'
The girl didn't argue, she trusted her daddy too much for argument. Once she left, Jake went to Maureen.
'She won't catch a cold'
'Okay'
She saw him went to the band of his shorts and knew he was about to remove it. She. Quickly turned her eyes back to her book. He dove into his clothes and dressed in a jean and white T shirt.
'You can look up now Maureen'
'I wasn't avoiding looking at you'
'Of course you were'
'I wasn't'
'I won't ague with you'
He said and walked out of the door. Two minutes later, a maid appeared at the door. She greeted Maureen and set about cleaning the bathroom. Maureen was in the shower when Jake and Victoria returned. She emerged with a robe and walked to the wardrobe to get something to wear. When she found what she was looking for, Maureen went back to the bathroom to dress. She came out to find Jake reading Victoria's bed time story. The girl was popped up in bed, looking sleepy but excited.
'Goodnight daddy'
'Night pumpkin', he said and kissed her cheeks.
She smiled and turned to her mother,
'Mummy, good night'
'Good night sweetie', Maureen said and kissed the girl's other cheek.
They all watched her drift into a peaceful sleep. The door was knocked and the nanny appeared.
'Sorry to disturb you madam but baby two is awake and hungry'
Slowly, Maureen walked to the nursery while Jake followed her. He was faster in picking the boy and cradling him. The young Nanny was surprised at how clumsily he held the boy.
'Don't kill him Jake', Maureen snapped.
He grinned at her 'easy, mother bear, instead of snapping, teach. I will be your willing student'
Maureen went to him and taught him how to hold the baby. He held the child to him with pride. The child smiled when Jake held him up for a kiss on the cheek. He vomited in Jake's face.
The nanny was alarm, Maureen hid her emotions, she waited for Jake to angrily hand over the baby and walked out. He instead burst into laughter.
'Gracious lord!', he exclaimed
'What Jake? He is your child after all'
'Sure he is and I just named him 'gracious lord'
'What? What sort of name is that?'
'Simply said. His name is Evan. Evan means, gracious lord'
'Evan', Maureen repeated
'Yes, the lord has been gracious to us. He brought back victor to us'
'What about the other twin?', Maureen asked.
Jake handed Evan to her and picked the sleeping child from his cot. The nanny helped him cradle the baby very properly. He looked at the sleeping child. The boy snapped his eyes opened and stared at the man holding him. He kicked, then he closed his eyes again.
'Look Maureen, he feels so safe with me. He looked at me and then went back to sleep. You know what it means? He trust me'
Maureen only snorted.
'He is safe, firm, strong and very enduring', that is his name'
'You name him that?'
'Yes. All those words put together should be 'Ethan'. His name is Ethan'
'So the boys are now Evan and Ethan?'
'Yes'
The maid handed a wipe to Jake and then collected the sleeping baby. Jake turned to Evan and. Was surprised to see his mouth cleaned already and Maureen was feeding him.
'You are the strongest woman I have ever known'
'Really?'
'Yes. You put up with and still gave me beautiful kids'
He forgot that nanny was there, he went to Maureen and kissed her cheeks.
'You are my world Maureen'
They went back to the room much more later. He went in for a shower and returned to see Maureen on her dresser. He was only in a towel and Maureen visibly shook with lust. He went to her and kissed her.
'Don't worry Maureen, you are not completely healed. I will wait'
'Jake'
'Don't deny that you want me. We are married'
'I don't want you'
He slipped into his pajamas and then to bed. They slept with Victoria between them.



******
A week later, Jake couldn't take it no more. Seek Henry out when he came for a visit.
' Henry can I talk to you? Privately?'
Anthony raised a brow. He had wondered why Jake would not revealed what had happened in Lagos. He watched as Henry slowly stood up and the two walked upstairs.
Jake opened Henry's old room and ushered his brother in.
'What is it Jake?', Henry asked
Jake kept pacing the room. 'I can't survive it Henry'
'Then tell me who kidnapped you'
'I am talking about Maureen'
'What about her?'
'Eh, you've been through this before. I need to ask you a private question'
'I'm all ears'
'After Linda was put to bed, how long does it take to resume normal sexual activities?'
Henry stared and then burst out laughing. He clutched his stomach and laughed his head off.
'This is not funny'
'It is'
'Okay. Forget it', Jake said and turned to the door, regretting confining in Henry.
'Wait Jake. It takes six weeks to eight weeks'
'What?'
'Yea. It wasn't easy. Linda and I had a difficult time'
'How can you survive that long?'
'I love her Jake. I waited '
'This is just five weeks'
'Talk to her doctor'
'You mean Joel?'
'No, Doctor Jonas. He will examine her and tell you when its okay'
'I love her Henry'
'Who doesn't know that? I remember Joel saying there isn't any complications. Maybe you should wait two more weeks'
'Okay'
'Jake?'
'Yea?'
'Can you please tell me what is eating you up? Who are you hiding?'
'No one'
'Did you see mother again? How is she?'
For the first time since he was born, he lost control of himself and went wild.
'Don't you ever ask me about her again'
'Easy its only a question'
Jake gave Henry a blow and Henry scared that his brother wasn't completely healed couldn't send one to him. He watched Jake stormed and went running. When he finally went downstairs Anthony was waiting.
'What did he tell you?'
'Nothing'
,Nothing?'
'He attacked when I asked after mother'
Jake came down stairs, picked a bottle of brandy and gave it a gulped and then ran out like a mad man. They followed him and saw him in the pool, swimming so quickly.
'What did you do to your brother?'
'Nothing. But I think I know something'
'What?'
'Mother. Something went on between he and mother and if I am correct, he hates her'
'Why would he hate her?'
'I don't know'

CHAPTER 8
'Hy, the boys need to be fed', Tara informed Maureen two weeks later.
'So soon? They are always hungry', Maureen said and laughed.
'They should be. They are so beautiful and handsome', Tara retorted happily.
'Are you really leaving?', Maureen asked Tara.
Jordan had permitted Tara to spend two weeks with Maureen so as to help her with the twins. Tara would be going home to her husband and kids that evening and it was very obvious that Maureen wasn't happy about it.
'I miss my kids and husband. You shouldn't worry, you now have two nannies to see to your kids'
Thank you Tara. Keep praying for Jake to come back to us'
'Of course your husband is strong, he won't die, at least not yet'
'Husband? I don't think that wedding is ever legal. We didn't even sign any certificate'
'Talk to father about it'
Maureen slowly followed Tara to the nursery and then fed the boys. She had insisted that no names should be given to them until Jake was awake to give them one. Everyone called the boys twins. Twin one and twin two. When she was sure that they were both sleeping, she walked to her room for a bath.
'Maureen?'
'Yes?, she heard Tara said
'What is it?, she said as she stepped out of the shower and picked a towel from the stall. Tara sounded urgent.
'Jordan just called. Eugene is down with a fever'
Maureen heard the panic in Tara's voice. She looked up at her and hugged her.
'You were schedule to leave here today anyway, go take care of your son, I will be fine'
'Are you sure?'
'Yes'
Tara quickly walked out of the room leaving Maureen staring after her. She slowly dressed, check on the boys in the nursery who were still napping and then went in to see Jake. She swung the door opened and wasn't surprised to see Victoria, curled up on a couch and dozing. The little girl had made her father's room her safe heaven. Slowly Maureen walked in and kiss Victoria on her cheek. The kiss woke her up from her peaceful slumber.
'Mummy?'
'Why aren't you in your own bed?'
'I want to be the first person daddy sees when he wakes up from sleep'
'Sweetheart, your daddy won't be happy to find out you've been baby sitting him!'
The girl actually giggled. She sent a look across the room to where her father was lying down and then frowned.
'But mummy? Why is he taking long to wake up from sleep?'
'Your daddy is ill. He need to sleep well so that he would get healed'
'Is my daddy going to die?'
Maureen's heart missed a beat at that statement. She tried to imagine life without Jake but couldn't. He was her world, her happiness and her life. Life without him would be so empty and full of tears and sadness. Looking at her daughter, she said,
'Daddy will not die. He will live and take good care of us'
'Will he have to travel again when he finally wakes up from sleep?'
'No sweetheart. I will never let him travel alone. We shall go with him to wherever vagabond he wants to go'
'What's vagabond?'
Maureen looked at her daughter and hugged her. She knew that the girl inherited her stubborn nature.
'Go to your nanny'
'Promise me he won't wake up when I'm gone'
'I can't promise you that sweetheart'
'Why?'
'No one knows when your daddy is going to wake up. Not even me'
'Can we be a real family again?'
'Your father has to wake up first. Don't forget, you promised not to climb in his bed or play near him'
'Yes mummy. You said he may get worst again'
'Maureen. I need to get to Maureen', they heard a deep voice said
Mother and child froze. They turned to the bed and saw Jake opened his eyes. They rushed to him and were all careful to not touch him. They were scared he would go back to sleep again.
'Maureen?'
'Jake I am here', she said in tears.
'What in the hell are you doing in Lagos. Its not safe here. Take the next available flight back to Abuja'
'No jake. You are in Abuja'
'Abuja? Where is Victoria?'
'Daddy?', Victoria also answered in tears.
'I love you so very much pumpkin, never doubt my love for you'
'Really?'
'Yes. I am so tired and weak I just want nothing better than to go back to sleep'
'No Jake, don't. Please', Maureen cried.
She might as well be wasting her time. He closed his eyes and went back to comatose
Mother nd daughter stared the man that meant the world to them yet, the cause of their pain. Victoria wailed like a child who had been refused her favourite candy. She was shaking Jake awake when Henry and Anthony came into the room.
Henry cursed, went to the bed and hurled Victoria away from Jake. Anthony was too angry at Maureen to say a word. After a few seconds, he found his tongue.
'Maureen, I am so disappointed in you. You stood here and watched the little girl shake the life out of him? Do you want him start bleeding again?'
Maureen swallowed. She looked at Anthony, Henry and then Victoria who was hiccupping at the moment.
'He opened his eyes and spoke to us'
'He did?', Henry asked, astonished.
'Yes he did, then he said he was tired and weak and only wanted to continue sleeping'
Anthony rushed to Jake. He prayed to God to heal his son for him. Few minutes later, they all went out of the room to give his doctor time with him.
'Tell us what happened', Henry asked Maureen
'He called my name in panic and was telling me to take the next available flight to Abuja because Lagos was not safe'
It took twenty minutes for Maureen to explain her encounter with Jake. Henry only kept cursing, wishing he was there when Jake opened his eyes. He might have gotten the names of the villains who kidnapped him.

******
Two days later, Jake was wide awake, unfortunately, neither Maureen nor Victoria was there to with him. He woke up to an empty bed and room and wondered where everyone had gone to. He remained awake for almost five minutes and decided to leave the bed and search for them. He felt as if he had slept for eternity. Looking down at himself, he was wearing a short only and he couldn't remove the drip on him. Such was his weakness. Frustrated, he laid back in bed and recalled the last time he opened his eyes. He smiled and remembered seeing Maureen and Victoria. He smiled again, they were married. Forcing their marriage was the best thing Maureen had ever did.
'I have two other kids'. Jake mused. He had seen the beautiful boys Maureen had given him. He had a family now. Helen could rot in hell for all he cared. Jake shifted and felt like relieving himself but was only able to sat up. The door opened and Victoria came into the room.
'You are awake?'
'Yes pumpkin. But listen, I am so pressed I need someone to help me up'
'I...I can't help you up'
He smiled at her. And raised a hand to her cheeks.
'I know pumpkin. Go call your mother for me'
'Mummy? Can she carry you? Maybe I should call uncle Henry. He is downstairs with grandpa'
'Where is your mummy?'
'In her room'
'I don't want uncle Henry, I want your mummy. Now hurry up'
She dashed out of the room to her mummy's room. The room was empty but she heard the shower running. Victoria didn't hesitate. She pushed the door opened and stared as her mother cursed and quickly held a robe against her uncladness .
'Victoria Joseph, whatever happened to the manners I taught you?'
Victoria sighed. She knew she was in trouble. Her mother only called her 'Victoria Joseph' when she was mad at her.
'Mummy, I'm so sorry but daddy...'
'Hold it there young girl. I will definitely have you punished. Now wait for me in the room'
'But mummy, I came to tell you that daddy...'
'I said you should wait for me in the bedroom or do you want me to spank you?'
The girl ran out and Maureen wore her robe and went after Victoria. She found Victoria standing at the door.
'What is it you want that couldn't wait for mae to leave the bathroom?'
'Daddy said I should call you'
'Daddy?'
'Yes, he is awake'
'Are you sure?'
As she said that, Maureen ran barefooted down the corridor to Jake's room with Victoria following her. She pushed the door opened and saw Jake struggling to leave the bed. His right legs were already on the floor and the drip he had also removed. He looked up when he saw her.
'Jake!'
'Darling I really need to go to the bathroom. Care to give me a hand?'
'Can I?'
'Of cause you can'
She went to him and he kissed her cheeks and whispered into her ears.
'You look so beautiful and smell more wonderfully'
Maureen visibly blushed. She helped him up and together, walked to the bathroom.
'goddamn it darling, our daughter is following us'
'Victoria go and call your uncle Henry'
Victoria ran out of the room. Maureen helped him pulled down his shorts and mused at the awkward situation.
'I'm through'
Maureen managed to pulled back his trousers and smiled at him.
'I remembered you forced me to marry you'
Her smile disappear. Maybe he hated her for it. He didn't sound happy about that. She masked her hurt and pained and then sweetly replied,
'We can always get a divorce'
'I don't want to ever divorce the mother of my kids'
A tear stung her cheeks to realized that he was only going to stay married to her for the kids' sake. She swallowed and led the way back to the room. They met Anthony, Henry and Victoria already there. Maureen said without thinking,
'Henry come and help your brother. I am tired and I need to go check on the boys', she tried hard but wasn't able to conceal her boiling anger. Even Victoria heard it.
'Mummy, I'm I still in trouble?'
'No sweetheart you are not'
Henry retrieved Jake and led him to the bed. Maureen began her walk to the door.
'Maureen wait', Jake called out
She stopped but didn't turned to see him. Her face would betray her emotions.
'I just made you angry and I don't know what I did or said'
'Go to hell Jake', she said and stormed out of the room.
Henry helped his brother on the bed. Jake cursed the fact that he was too weak to follow her out.
'Call the doctor Henry. I want to know how soon I can go about my usual activities. Especially, being in my wife's bed'
'Is that all you can think of Jake? You are ill and the only thing in your mind is being in Maureen's bed?', Henry asked his brother
'Can't say you are wrong Henry, but I want to feel married'
'Boys, in case you've all forgotten, Victoria is here and listening. I am also listening'
Victoria looked at her father, 'are you and mummy fighting again?'
'No pumpkin'

******
Maureen tried and succeeded in staying away from Jake for two days. It was now common knowledge that the two were not in good terms. On the third day, Jake wore his robe and went to seek her out. When he didn't find her in her room, he went to the nursery and found her bosom feeding one of the twins. Slowly, he walked to them. He was still weak and knew that his doctor would be mortified that he left the bed.
'Maureen, we need to talk'
'Hush, don't wake him. He is already drifting to sleep'
Jake watched mother and baby. The second twin was already sleeping. Five minutes later, he watched her adjust her clothes and then took the boy to his cot. She turned, open the door to her room and looked at him.
'May I know why you are angry with me?'
'I'm not angry'
'You've been avoiding me for three days'
'I had been so busy'
'Maureen, I am your husband. Talk to me. Was it because I left you pregnant again?'
'Please Jake, I need to bath. Just go'
'I should go? You are my wife for crying out loud and you've given me kids'
'I...'
He moved the short distance and holding her head firmly, kissed her senseless. Maureen felt weak by his touch and kiss. She responded, despite herself.
'You see? We still have passion for each other'
'Jake?'
'Yes?'
'Tell me what happened to you'
'I can't Maureen. It will only endanger you'
A tear slipped her eyes.
'Please. I want to know. I deserve to know why a quake doctor treated you after the accident'
'Maureen'
'Are you broke?'
'The last time I checked, I am not'
'Then what? I can't live the rest of my life scared that you might up and leave again'
'I love you Maureen. I promise to make everything all right'
'Stay away from me Jake. Stay away from the boys and stay away from Victoria'
'we both know Victoria won't stay away from me'
Maureen sat on the bed and wept bitterly. She didn't know what they were up against and jake didn't trust her enough to tell her.
'I can't stay away from you Maureen. Even if I want to'
'Why are you hurting me so much Jake? I have shed tears of blood since I met you. Mich is right, nothing good would come out of loving you'
'Darling...'
'Don't darling me. You care for no one but yourself'
'You know that's not true'
'Stay away from me Jake'
'I can't'

******
He stayed away from her. They were not talking. Henry wasn't happy with his brother. He had refused to talk about what had happened to him and it was obvious he was trying to pick a fight with whoever asked him.
A week later, Maureen came up after lunch to see her room busy. Maids were going up and down in her wardrobe.
'Alice what are you doing here?'
'Sorry madam. Your husband said we should make space for his clothes and shoes'
'In this room?'
'Yes ma'
'What happened to his?'
'We don't know ma'
'Get out of my room. All of you, out'
Jake appeared at the door in a shirt and pants. He waved the maids away and set about creating a space for his clothes.
'Jake?'
'You will have to carry me out of this place Maureen. I gave you two weeks to sulk and I think its time we start living like two married people'
'I don't sulk'
'You do'
'We are not married'
'We are. Our certificate is ready. Ask father for it. Have you forgotten that you signed it the same day we got married? I signed mine today'
'I can't remember that'
'I would have loved for you to move in with me but the nursery is connected to this room. It wouldn't be fair to the boys'
'Don't just touch me'
'I won't. I heard Victoria sleeps here. She can go back to my room. At least until I buy our own house'
'You can't just decide without telling me'
'I can Maureen. You swore to obey me on our wedding day'
'I can't remember that'
'Of course you won't. You were in pains'
By evening, Victoria who had gone to visit the Jason's return and was shocked at the change in her mother's room. What surprised her more was seeing her father sleeping in her mother's bed. She sat down and watched him.
'Pumpkin, you are back? How is your uncle and aunty?'
'They are fine. Jessica cries a lot'
He let out a laugh. I'm sure you did just that when you were her age'
'Daddy?'
'Yes?'
'Are you going to sleep in my mummy's bed tonight?'
'Yes. Now and always pumpkin'
'Really?'
'Yes. You can have my room'
'Aren't you going to travel again?'
'No. I am here for you and your mummy'
'But daddy...'
'What?'
'I missed you so much. Please don't leave us again'
'I won't. Come to think of it. You can spend the night with your mummy and I till the week runs out'
'Really?', she asked, her eyes brightened.
'Yep'
'Daddy?'
'Yes?'
'Can you bath me today?'
'Of course I will'

sinachi1:
madam ur story brought me out of eating n cleaning mouth BT I still could get all d updates on d first three series. Can u do me d favour of Chating on watsup via 07069656961 so u can tell me how I can ur complete work. u are indeed a super writer

Lol. Check ur mail

arabaribiti:
My second wife longest time how is ur family pls I have not been online for almost a year now I almost die but am back pls I miss some updates that you remove and I want to read all when you mail me I will tell you what happen arabaolusegun@yahoo.com thanks

I just mailed you. Waiting for a reply

winningbt:
mama tiff Abeg, biko,please,ejo, Dan Allah, give us an update

I promise to update tomorrow. These dys, I always come bk very tired from work n phcn are not helping at all

kennylizzy:
I came here to read dis piece for d second tym cos I can't find any nyc write up lik urs.
Hop to continue wit d deceitful couple for d second tym too

Thank you m'am. I am really honoured

Joel took in the sight that greeted him. His sister was clutching at a bloody bed spread and screaming her head off when Anthony entered. Joel never caring in the world about the bloody bed and sheets threw himself on his sister in an effort to hold her down. She was unclad, he wondered if she would cope loosing another of her kids again.
All three intruders had their attention on Maureen that they didn't notice the man on sprawled on the floor. She was sobbing now and fighting Joel with a strength she ought to have reserved, considering what she had just gone through. The baby Linda was holding burst into wail, waking the other. Baby from a nearby cot.
These confused the three men who thought that all or one of the babies had died, leading to the cries from the women.
'Linda?, what the heck is the problem?', Henry asked.
Linda stared at her husband. She was too shocked and dumbfounded to talk. She began weeping again.
'Jake', she sobbed uncontrollably. The mention of that name seemed to jot the men from their positions. They had all forgotten of his existence. Henry followed Maureen's gaze and cursed when he saw his only brother on the floor. He ran to hand right hand side of the bed and knelt in front of his brother. Anthony ran to his son and held him.
'Father...', Jake tried to speak
'Don't speak. What happened to you?'
'She did this to me'
'Who?'
'Take care of Maureen and the kids. I failed you all', he was barely able to talk.
Henry was crying as he cradled his brother. For the first time since Linda met Anthony, he was at a lost what to do. His body shook as he held Jake.
Victoria appeared at the opened door just as Jake coughed and blood spitted from his mouth. She looked at her mother, then her father and wondered why she was destined to never have a normal life.
She burst into tears and ran out of the room only to collide with a big figure. She was almost blind with tears when she felt strong firm hands holding her. She fought to be let alone.
'Sweetheart its me, your uncle Jordan'
'Just let me go'
'No'
'He knelt beside her and saw the hurt in her eyes. At that moment, he heard a. Shout from Maureen.
'My daddy'
'What about him?'
Tara ran past them and into the room. She gaped at the situation and shouted orders at her husband.
'Quickly Jordan, come and help Henry lift him'
Jordan let go of Victoria just as her nanny appeared and took her, kicking to her room.
'He is bleeding, internally and I think he just past out', Joel shouted. He couldn't let go of Maureen yet.
Five minutes later, the men carried him to the car and drove as fast as they could to the hospital. Linda and Tara were left to await a gynecologist coming and Mich. The boys and their mother needed a bath and the room needed a thorough clean up.
It was Mich who later arrived and took the matter into her own hands. She summoned all the available maids in the house and told them to get to work.


******
Anthony couldn't sit still. He walked round the corridor in fear while he waited for his son's doctor to appear. Jake was driven to Maitama hospital and Anthony had been assured that the best doctors they had were with his son.
Henry on his part had tried to remember all the bad things he had done to Jake. He wouldn't forgive himself if anything happened to his brother. They waited for over six hours, having Joel and Jordan for company. No words were spoken, no food or drink was taken. They were all praying in their heart for Jake to survive.
When finally the doctors emerged, Anthony ran to talk to them. A man almost Anthony's age looked at them.
'Are you Jake's father?'
'Yes. Is my son going to be all right?'
'Only God can decide that'
'What do you mean?'
'Can we talk in my office? By the way, I am doctor Steve'
'I'm coming too. He is my brother'
'Okay'
The three walked slowly down the corridor to the doctor's office. The two Josephs were too disrupted to notice how the office looked like. They were offered a seat and they willingly took it.
'I'm afraid I have bad news', Doctor steve slowly announced.
Anthony's heart missed a skip. He looked at Henry and then down his feet.
'What is it?', Henry was brave to asked.
'I think your brother had an accident. Some arteries were damaged, leading to him loosing blood internally'
'I don't understand'
'We were able to repair the damaged arteries and performed a blood transfusion on him but we don't know if he will survive this'
'Of course he will. He is strong. The fool, he probably had the accident on his way to Abuja and didn't see it fit to tell us', Henry said.
'You don't seem to understand what I am saying', Doctor steve said
'What?'
'The accident might have occurred months ago. Someone tried to treat him but the person wasn't an expert'
'Stop speaking in parables'
'Your son, was treated, yes. With the wrong drugs. These medications were responsible for his internal injury'
'You are still talking in parables', Henry shouted.
'Mr Joseph. Only your brother can explain what happened to him. That is, if he lives to tell the tale'
'What are his chances?', Anthony asked?
'For his survival, we have fourty percent'
'Can we talk to him?'
'He is in comatose'
'He left about seven months ago'
'Did he contact any of you? Or his wife? I saw his wedding ring'
'No. He usually take off for years and return. We didn't bother looking for him and he only just returned', Henry said
'Your brother might have been held captive all these months'
'No one would dare hold my son captive'
'You think so?'
'Why would you say he was held captive?', Henry wanted to know.
'There were red marks on his wrists and legs. Bandages on his stomach'
'What?'
'Come', he said and they followed him. He took them to Jake's private ward. They saw him lying down on his back. His wrist were bandaged and his legs had red welts.
'Chains', Anthony revealed.
'Yes', Doctor Steve agreed.
'I think he tried to escape. His wrists are pretty bad'
'who would dare me?', Anthony asked angrily.
'Like I said, he might survive to tell the tales. I don't want to lift your spirits', the doctor informed them
'Thank you but I want him moved to my house'
'He may not survive it. His injury may reopen'
'It won't. Get ready to move him. I will have the best doctors work on him'
'You are determine'
'Yes. He must not die. If he does, hell will break loose'

The following day, Jake was transfered to his father's home. Doctor Steve was surprised to be given a month's vacation from the hospital and wasn't surprised when Henry approached him and offered him a job.
' Jake doesn't have enemies. He is too good and gentle for that', Henry told his father the following day.
'Yes. That is what baffled me. You Henry, have enemies. But Jake? Who would want to hurt a harmless man?'
'Hmmm'
'I'm sending you to Lagos. Find out what happened there'
'No father. I will talk to Jordan, who will talk to Kelvin's men. They will do a swift job. My presence in Lagos will can make our enemies run. Let them think that they are safe'
'Good. Anyone who dares to touch my family should know that he can't hide, not from me'



******
Lagos

'We should leave this country', Helen was telling her lover
'No. I want Jake dead'
'He escaped'
'With information. I faked my own death for this mission. Now, he is about to mar all I ever worked for just because of you'
''I didn't help him escape'
'No. But if Jake should spill the beans, everything is over'
'He won't'
'Helen, listen to yourself. Jake will not only implicate us, he will implicate top politicians of this country'
'I wasn't the one smuggling arms into the country'
'Your son, will die. He can't make me run away from my country'
'How in the hell did you let a small boy catch you?'
'He was simply in the wrong place at a wrong time'
'What do you think will be our punishments?'
'I won't even think of it'
'If I can't kill him, you will or else, I will have your hide you silly'

mhiztee:
nice update mam.. thanks for d update but the suspense is much
..

Thank you for reading, ma

snowhite07:
Hope is not another madness again. I'm loving dis story like......

Lol, thank you for reading

heemah:
Omg!!! What happened?

Madam how far? How is the fasting going?

'You mean you are having the baby now?', Jake inquired.
'you clod, not baby, babies', Maureen retorted
'Why didn't you tell me you were pregnant?', he said as he came to her. Maureen retorted by smacking his face again.
'Maureen...'
'Get your hands off me'
'We need to get you to the hospital'
'I'm not going', she said and sat back
'Why?'
'I want us married, today, before I have the kids. After the wedding, you can decide to disappear to wherever vagabond you wished to'
'Maureen!', Anthony chided
'I will not have these kids il legitimately, not after Victoria and Victor. I want them born into a matrimonial home. I refused for my kids to be called bastards, again'
She had a contraction and winced painfully. She won't bow down.
'Maureen, you can't be serious!', Jake said.
'I am. You better hurry and get a man of God'
'You know its not possible. No one would wed us like this, especially at this odd situation'
'Then I will die first before I deliver another of your bastards'
'Maureen, please. After the kids come, I shall marry you'
Maureen was in pains and Anthony could see how brave she was trying to be. She winced again as another contraction came.
'Maureen!'
'I won't bulged. I don't care what happened to me. You killed me anyway when you left again. If I didn't make it out, I want Anthony to raised Victoria, not you'
Victoria burst into tears again. Maureen went on her feet. She was sure the baby was coming. Anthony couldn't let that happened. He picked his phone and began making calls. He told Henry to go look for any willing pastor or priest. He doubt if that would ever happened.
He placed another call to Joel, telling him to buy to rings, no matter how cheap.
'What's happening?'
'Hurry, we don't have time, get two rings down here, immediately'
The panic in Anthony's voice prompted Joel to change direction. He was on his way home from a night shift and he wondered where he would get two rings this soon. Some stores were just opening. The jewelry stores were not opening so Joel drove to Anthony's house. He wondered what the rings were for.
Meanwhile, back at Anthony's house, Maureen was struggling to maintain control of the situation. The contractions are becoming more severe and she was already feeling weak. Jake was the first to notice.
'Sweetheart, let me take you to the hospital'
'Don't come close to me or I will kill myself'
'You won't'
'Of course, I will throw myself down this staircase'
Her breathing was becoming more severe. She clutched the railings with all her being as the door burst opened and Henry appeared with a priest, and Linda behind them.
'What is happening?', Linda asked
'Maureen's water just broke but she decided she didn't want to bring more bast.ards into this world', Anthony explained.
'You irresponsible boy, you can't just up and leave at anytime you want and then returned just when you feel as', Henry yelled at his brother.
'I don't owe you no explanation. I owe only Maureen and Victoria, so big bro, mind the way you talk to me', Jake shot back.
'What? You talking to me after all you did?'
'Henry, in case you've not noticed, Maureen is in labour', Linda reminded her husband.
'you are father who?', Anthony asked the reverend father who just stood there, staring at Maureen.
'Father, Rock Mallow'
'Father, we need you to performed an urgent wedding ceremony to these two', Anthony said, pointing at Maureen and Jake.
The good father swallowed and then shook his head.
'I can't. We don't perform weddings like that. There are things they must do. Classes they must attend and we need to ascertain their faith. I was told I am to attend to a sick patient who was dying, not to perform a wedding'
'Well, the woman is sick and will die if you don't get them wedded'
'Is your son responsible for the pregnancy she is carrying?'
'Yes. They don't want the kids to be born out of wedlock'
'I can't get them wedded'
'As a priest, you. Catholics do not even mind if the woman is pregnant. I've seen the catholic church joined a very pregnant woman in holy matrimony'
'Yes, but this is a different case'
'How?'
'The barnes must be called three times, my church council must be be alerted and I must meet her parents'
'If you must know, we were planning to get married last seven months but something came up. We registered at the marriage registry Area one and I'm sure the bans were posted' , Jake put in.
The door opened and Joel came in. A glance at his sister proved his theory.
'She is in labour', he announced
'Yes, but she would die first before having illegitimate kids', Jake wailed
'What? Is that what the rings are for? I couldn't get any, must of the shops were locked'
'I have two rings in my drawer. Victoria can go and get them'
'Sweetheart, you remember the rings I told you daddy bought?'
'Yes mummy'
'Go open my jewelry box and get them for me'
The little girl stood up and ran to her mother's room.
'What rings?'
'Jake and I shopped our wedding rings before he disappeared. He told me he might lost them so I opted to keep them safe before he returned. Believe you me, I was tempted to throw them away Jake'
'Thanks for not throwing them away'
A contraction came and Maureen found herself down when the pain overtook her. Her brother knew she won't make it to the hospital. He placed a call to his hospitals for tools and a gynecologist.
It took Anthony over five minutes to convinced the priest. He wouldn't bulge. The tears he saw in Jake's eyes and the stubbornness in Maureen finally dealt him in.
'Her family may not be in support of this', the priest said.
'I am her only living family. Our parents died and I raised her. I approve', joel retorted
Joel never did approve but he was scared of making Maureen angry again, not when they had just reconciled after months of fighting.
Maureen was taken upstairs and laid on the bed. The priest performed the fastest wedding in his fifteen years of service to God. He insisted on reading a verse from the Bible, rings were exchanged and the ceremony was over almost as soon as it started.
'You may kiss your bride'
Jake moved forward to kiss Maureen but she only slapped him across the face. Not minding her, he gave her a brush on the lips in the presence of the witnesses, Anthony, Joel, Henry, Linda, Victoria and the maids. Anthony ushered the priest to the study where they would talk about the certificates.

'Now, all of you get out', Joel barked.
'I'm not leaving', Jake announced
'Me too', Linda
'Water, I need water', Maureen said in tears
Jake ran downstairs to the kitchen and Joel followed him. Maureen was left with Linda
'Lock the door', Maureen commanded
'Why?'
'The baby, I can feel one of them...'
Linda ran to Maureen. She helped her out of her clothes and went to wash her hands in the bathroom.
'Lock the damn door before they return'
Linda peeped between Maureen's spread legs and saw a little head popping out.
'Oh my God Maureen'
'I won't have my own brother deliver me of my kids. You will do it Linda, you have experience with three kids'
They heard the men coming and Linda ran to the door and locked it.
'You can do it'
'I can't'
'Of course you can'
There was a pound at the door and Maureen shouted 'go away'
After five minutes of shouting and screaming, a little boy greeted the world. Linda was confused. She swung the door opened and in came Joel and Jake. Jake ran to her and held her hands.
'I am here Maureen'
Maureen was not listening. She was shouting at her brother to get out but he couldn't. The network was bad and he couldn't reach anyone at the hospital. Not even Mich. He went to the bathroom and washed his hands
'You are stuck with my little sis. I wish I have a choice but I can't let you die'
Within minutes, the house was carrying Maureen's cry. Jake couldn't stand it, he too began crying.
'Maureen, listen to me, I know you are very embarrassed right now but you have to pretend I am not your brother and push'
'I am tired Joel. I can't push anymore'
'Of course you can, you are strong, you can do it'
'I just want to sleep'
'No, not yet, you need to push, we are at home and do not have any equipment'
Her foreheads was covered with sweat. Linda was busy wiping the first baby dry.
'Maureen, I love so much. I promise never to get you pregnant again, not after seeing you in so much pain. Please, do this for me. Just this and I will be a fulfilled man'
'I am tired'
'You can't be tired. Not yet'
It took her another thirty minutes to push out her second child. Joel swiftly helped her and then he cut the biblical cord. She immediately fall asleep without even looking at her babies.
Linda handed the first child to Jake and then continued wiping the second child dry. joel went down and began shouting orders to the maids. He needed all the towel available in the house and of course hot water.
'How is she?', Henry asked
Joel grinned. 'Two bouncing babies'
'I called Tara and Jordan, they should be here any second. Mich is also on her way'
'Okay. Were you able to communicate with anyone at the hospital?'
'Yes'
'Good'
'Now, I think I am finally ready to send your brother to the grave'
'Joel...'
'Twice, he made a fool of Maureen'
'They are now married?'
'Married? What happened today? Is it even legal?'
They heard Linda screamed. Joel cursed and they both ran up the stairs to see what happened. The sight that greeted them was very unexpected. They ran in and held Maureen as she tried to fall off the bed. She was now also screaming her head off.

kennylizzy:
Madam Tiff I hope u r nw stronger than me? Thanks for d updates bt still expecting more. Have a fruitful week..........

I'm now strong and attending to my noctivities. How are you feeling now? Hope you are better? Get well soonest my dear

So sorry for the late update.phcn seem very. Imposible these days and we've been in black out for the past three days. Thankfully, I just returned from work to see that there is light. Will charge, rest and then type an update later. Thank u for your patience

Missmossy:
Welcome back Tiff once more,may the good Lord strengthen you like never before.


Kudos,you have always been wonderful

Amen and thanks

gifty99200:
What a great job tiffany, weldone.

Thank you ma'am

Adasun:
ewww!!! What can i say about ur write up mam




u are just 2 gud

Thank you sir

Chapter 6

6 months earlier

Jake had looked angrily at his mother. She wouldn't dare touch Maureen. She wouldn't!
'Baby are you listening, I want you to do something more for me'
'Be quick about it Helen'
His mother's eye glittered in anger. She hated it when he called her by her name.
The two were standing at the parking lot of Ikeja mall. Jake's hands held tightly to Maureen's pearl, which he just bought and the few things he got for Victoria.
'What do you have there baby?', she asked
'Nothing special'
'Oh, no. Don't tell me you are wasting my money on that Maureen girl. I have someone for you. You would love her'
'You seem to have forgotten that I am capable of making my own choice'
'I won't let you spend my money'
'You can have the inheritance you've given me back. I hate you so much that I would rather be poor than continue to be manipulated by your insanity'
'Be careful what you say Jake, Maureen will pay the price'
Jake laughed at his mother. He clutched his stomach and laughed his head off.
'I deduced that you don't care if I have her killed?'
'I care'
'Then why laugh?'
'You see, you might have killed my first love but you can't do that to Maureen and go scot free. She isn't a nobody you know'
'Of course she is. She had a brother, quite harmless man I told you. He can't retaliate'
'You under estimate Joel'
'Yes'
'Mother', he said mockingly ' do you know where Maureen is now? in your husband's house. He loved her and had made it his business to shelter her. I think he saw in her the female child you couldn't give him. Anthony will hunt you down'
'He doesn't know I am alive'
'Hmmm'
'Let's talk about your less favourite son. He is Joel's friend and had also seen her as his sister. He knew her even before I did met her. I just don't know how she did it but she had all the men you fear round her little finger'
'Henry loves Linda, not Maureen'
'True. But if you investigate, you will find out that he had been playing father to the kids she had for me.
I forgot Tara, who is related to the Jason through Mich's marriage to Joel. Surely, you fear Jordan and oh, the law firm'
'Don't you dare call that Tara girl for me. I hate her more than anyone else'
'Sure you do. Care to share why?'
'She is from Anthony and I hate all the children Anthony seer except you'
'What about Henry?'
'The day I had him, he was everything Anthony and I hated him'
'I'm getting rather bored with this discussion Helen. I'm on my to a place'
'Don't walk out on me'
'Or you will do what?. Don't you ever threatened me Helen or I swear to God I will make sure you die in reality'

Jake unlocked his car and deposited the contents inside. He put his phone in his breast pocket and turned to tell his mother to have a good day. He didn't make it to the car as he heard shouts outside and people running to the scene. Curious, he ran to the scene, crossed the road. That was the kind of man Jake was, the one who would grant his assistance whenever he could. He saw an accident victim lying on the tiled road. Blood was gushing everywhere.
'Where is the driver?', he asked no one in particular
'Its a hit and run', a plump woman reply.
The victim, a girl of about fifteen was lying unconsciously on the road. She was a fruit seller and her wares were scattered all over the floor. Jake wondered who would pay the hospital bill, at the mere look of her worn our clothes and shoes.
'I need to hurry back and get my car. I will follow them to the hospital and pay the bill then go back to Maureen', he said to himself.
With that resolution, he began running back to the parking lot for his car. So deep was he in his thought he didn't see a car appear from nowhere. He saw the car too late and wondered how the car had reached him so soon. He shouted as he felt pain all over his body. He was hit very hard. Jake groaned and passed out.
Immediately, Helen came running, cradling him and crying.
'They've killed my son o', she shouted
'the sympathy towards her by passerby was obvious because the resemblance between mother and son was glaring. Philip parked his car and helped Jake inside.
'You are taking him to the hospital?', a man asked Helen
'Yes, he is my son and I am not about to wait for the police'
'Pele', he said to her.
Two minutes later, they were on their way to her rented house.

******
Jake wasn't smiling as the nurse, Cynthia scooped spoon fulls of beans and plantain into his mouth. The nurse had taken an immediate like on Jake whom she believed was so lucky to have been alive after the accident.
'You are brooding again?', she admonished him.
'I'm not'
'Yes you are!'
He looked thoroughly at her. At twenty eight, she looked twenty one. She was dark, too thin for his liking. Her bosoms were small and he could tell at the moment that she wasn't wearing a bra. He remembered the day he met Maureen, she had removed her bra just to seduce him. He missed Maureen and Victoria a lot and his nurse wasn't helping at all.
'Why are you smiling?', he heard her say
'Well, nurse, I am thinking of my fiancee'
'Hey Jake, I kept insisting you should call me Cynthia'
'And I kept insisting I will pay you double what Helen and Philip are paying you if you help me escape'
'I can't'
'Why?'
'Because we've discussed this, two weeks ago'
'Okay'
'Why don't you work?'
'I helped a young lady carried out an abortion. Was caught and my licensed seized. When your mother offered me this job, it was God sent cause I really need the money'
'Help me, please'
'Why? She is your mother'
'She kidnapped me!'
'Cause she loved you'
'Is this what you call love? My family can't find me'
'She is your family'
'I kept telling you I have a father, an elder brother, a child, she is three, well, almost four and her mother...', he stopped and smiled.
'Maureen?', she asked him
'Yes'
'You asked after her when you first awake, you love her don't you?'
Yes. But I guessed I lost her again'
'Why would you say that?'
Jake took his time to explain to Cynthia how he had met Maureen, her pregnancy and his denial.
'It took three years to finally return'
'And she forgave you?'
'Yes. I promised never to leave them again. I came back to Lagos, to sell one of my houses and use the money to get us a new house. We should have been married by now. But we can't, not with all these chains on my hands and legs'
Cynthia was silent. She didn't know if she should pity a son who was kept a prisoner by his own mother or pity the mother who loved her son to distraction but the love was never returned.
'You can do the right thing Cynthia'
'I don't know where to get the keys'
'You can search for it'
'Jake, I can't. Your mother had been so nice to me'
'I think I still have my brother's phone number. Call him, I bet you he doesn't know where I am'
'You lie'
'Give it a try'
She left the room, ten minutes later, she returned with her phone and Jake called out Henry's number for her. She dialed it and it rang. She heard a deep male voice.
'Hello?'
'Hello. Good evening, please am I speaking with Henry Joseph?'
'Yep. Who are you?'
'I call about your brother, he hasn't been picking my call all these while and I am his dentist'
'What is that your name?'
'Cynthia David. You see, I saw him last two months and he had not paid his bill'
'How in the hell did you get my number?'
'He wrote it for me in case of emergency'
'You mean you saw jake last two months?'
'Yea'
'Well, I haven't seen him in over seven months. When next you see him, tell him I said, I will kill him for hurting Maureen again'
The line went dead.
'You see? He doesn't know where I am'

Helen slowly walked out. She was much more confused. Two weeks after the phone call, she made a decision. She was sure no one was home, she sneaked into philip's room and took the key she had seen in his drawer. They had so trusted her they would be surprised.
'You can go', she told him as she hastily removed his cuffs'
'Come with me, they would make you pay'
'I have family'
'Come with me to Abuja'
'No. Just go'
He gave her his father's address and slipped out of the house. He wasn't yet fully recovered but he had to leave. He immediately went to his bank, filled in an urgent withdrawal booklet and removed some money.
He knew he couldn't go back for his car, he didn't want to risk getting captured again. He took the night bus to Abuja. He arrived, tired, and hungry.

*******

Maureen, Victoria and Anthony had a quiet breakfast. After eating, the child was taken upstairs for a bath by her nanny and Anthony settled down to listen to the 8am news.
Slowly, she pushed away her chair and walked upstairs. By the time she got to the top, she was too tired to walk to her room. She sat down on the staircase for for ten minutes.
'Maureen?, kate said you couldn't go to your room. Do you need help?', anthony asked
''No. Just wasn't to sit here for a well. Will be up soon. The kids have been kicking'
It had been a shocked when the scan result proved she was carrying twins-again. She had smiled sadly and wondered if she could go through it again.
'Are you sure?'
'Yep'
He returned to his seat and Maureen smiled sadly, she was scared. Now that the doctor said she was expected to be put to bed within the week, she remembered the pain she went through with her first pregnancy and fidgeted. She thought of Jake and wondered where he was. No one told her but she knew that he had been searched for but the search had been futile. Jake was no where to be found.
twenty minutes later, Victoria came to sit with her, blocking the stairway.
'Mummy, you are crying'
'Yes'
'You miss daddy?'
'Yes'
'I miss him too. Miracle said he heard his daddy said to his mummy that daddy doesn't want us'
Maureen was quiet. She pulled her child to her as the twins kicked.
'Touch my tommy, your brothers are playing'
'Can I play with them?'
'Yes, when they arrived'
'Mummy?'
'Yes?'
'I love you'
'I love you too pumpkin'
The two stared. Jake was fond of calling Victoria Pumpkin. Maureen saw Victoria tried not to cry. Her lips trembled and then she burst into tears.
'The cry woke Anthony from his nap and then sent the nanny out. Maureen heard the front door open. She heard Anthony cursed but didn't care. She held her daughter to her.
'Cry it all out sweetheart', she said soothingly.
Victoria suddenly stopped crying. She stared down at the dark man staring at them. Maureen wondered what what had taken her daughter's attention. She looked down,and there he was, so very handsome as she knew him to be.
'Maureen? Oh my God, you are pregnant'
Maureen was too surprised to answer. She only stared at him as bitter-sweet memory came clouding her sanity.
'Pumpkin, come and say hi to your daddy'
The girl didn't move. She sat there, looking down at him.
'Pumpkin!'
'Don't call me that'
'Jake what are you doing here'
'You and Victoria brought me back'
'Get out'
'Maureen, let me explain'
'Pocket your explanation and get out'
By now, all the maids and nanny were watching the scene in awe. Anthony had been too angry to say a word. To their surprise, Jake went on his knees, crying and begging. Maureen managed to stand up. She walked slowly to him and gave him a slap on his right cheek. It stung but Jake said nothing. Slowly, she went back to the stairs and sat down again.
'Jake, I will say it once, leave my house', his father said
'Father let me explain, I had an accident'
Maureen stood up angrily to say something. She went back quickly and stare in horror at Anthony.
'What is it?', he asked?
'I think my water just broke'

******
They returned home three days later. Maureen had cried her eyes out that she had no strength for anymore tears. She alighted from the car and without looking at either Victoria or Anthony, walked slowly to her room. There, she flung and broke whatever she set her eyes on. By the time she finished the room was a mess. She lay on the floor and slept.
It was victoria that woke her up an hour later.
'Mummy?'
'Yes?', she forced her eyes opened
'I'm hungry'
'Go away Victoria'
'No'
She laid down and ignored her daughter. The little girl walked to Anthony in tears.
'What is it?'
'I'm hungry'
'Where is your mummy?'
'sleeping'
He called her nanny and handed over Victoria to her. Anthony placed a call to one of his contacts
'Hello?'
'Jo how is business?'
'Fine. Anything for me?'
'Yes, I want you to look for my son'
'Your son?'
'Yes. My second son. When you find him, bundle him and bring him back here'
'He isn't a good, he is man'
'Your work is to listen and act while I pay. Do not ask questions'
He ended the call. Yes, Jake would not run away from his responsibilities. When Maureen did not appear for dinner, he was forced to seek her out. He knocked on the door three times, waited for two minutes and turned the knob.
Anthony sighed at the sight that greeted him. The room was a complete mess. He looked at the bed, she wasn't in it. His eyes scanned the room for her and he finally decided she must be in the bathroom when a sigh made him turned to a corner of her bed. He walked into the room and found her, on the floor, shivering.
'What is wrong?'
'I'm so cold', she said.
'How long did you lay on the floor?'
'I can't remember'
'How long were you in that pool at the back of Jake's house last night?'
'I can't remember'
'Maureen'
'Go away sir, I want nothing more than to die'
'You can't die. What about Victoria?'
'She will have you. There is nothing left for me in this life anymore'
'Of cause there is, your brother, Mich, your nephews, I and even Victoria'
'its Jake I want sir, no one, not even Victoria can take away the pain I feel'
'Not even the baby?'
'Especially, not the baby. I made a complete fool of myself again'
She cried and Anthony was there for her to cried on his chest. At that moment, he hated his son. She whimpered again and he was forced to get to the bed, look for a blanked and cover her.
'Maureen, look at me, you need help. I will call Linda to help you bath, and then put you in bed'
'No, not Linda, Henry would surely laugh at me'
'Okay, I will call Mich'
'Please don't, I can't bear for Joel to come in here with her. It would kill me'
'So Tara it is'
'Promise me Jordan won't follow her'
'I promise'
He walked out of the room. He cursed his old age for not being able to lift her off the damn floor. Thirty minutes later, Tara appeared at her father's house with Shan on her heels. They went to the stairs and pushed the door opened.
'Christ, Maureen. What happened? Father just called and told me you need help. Said I should only come with Shan and no one is to know'
'Tara, I...I...', Maureen burst into tears
'What happened?'
'I can't go through this again. I can't, I won't survive it'
'He left again, didn't he?', Tara asked
'Yes, left me, alone and pregnant'
Tara hugged Maureen to her. She pushed some strands of hair of Maureen's face and sooth her. What she didn't understand was why Maureen loved Jake.
'You are cold'
'Yes, but the pain in my heart won't go away. Its so severe I can't sleep at night'
'Quickly Shan, remove everything from the bed and put another linens. We need to help her bath and put her in bed', Tara commanded Shan.
Shan looked at Maureen with pity as he walked to do what Tara told her. Tara got rid of the blanked, she removed Maureen's clothes and went to fill the tub with hot water. With Shan's help, they helped her into the tub, bathed her and brought her back to bed where they dressed her and helped her into bed. Tara fed her and she soon dozed off but she was trashing and crying even in her sleep.
By the time, both Tara and Shan rearranged and swept the room, she made an announcement.
'Never will I fall in love again. Never will I go through this process again'
'Shan!'
'I'm serious Tara, when clark discovered that I am not an heiress and that I owned no part of the law firm, he was angry. I couldn't understand. His attitude towards me changed. I confided in a friend once that I am only a poor relative enjoying you and Jordan's generosity, she told. him. I was at his house for the weekend and he came home very drunk, he beat me up and called me a liar for not telling him I have nothing'
'What?', Tara asked 'and you never did told me this?'
'I can't. Seeing Maureen like this reminded me of Clark and all the pains I went through. I have already decided to never fall in love again'
'You can't have a loveless marriage Shan, I won't allow it'
Shan looked at Tara with so much stubbornness and determination.
'I have also decided to never marry. I don't wish for that'
'Do you have a boyfriend Shan?'
'No. I am a medical doctor now. My job is now my boyfriend'
'You don't sometimes feel lonely?'
'No'
Tara stared, She had serious problems in her hands. She made a mental note to have a talk with Jordan, and then Shan'

They left Anthony's house late and she had to explain to her husband that Jake had left again. Two days later, all family members knew about it. Maureen locked the door to her room and refused to see anyone, not even Mich.
'Maureen open the damn door', she heard her brother said.
'gloat all you want but I will not'
'I won't gloat, I just want to see you, touch you and hug you. I miss my sister'
'I am not talking to you remember?'
It was a surprise to them all that Maureen avoided them for two months. She ate her food in her room, read novels and hardly come out. Anthony, understanding her reasons, had warned the maids to let no one near her room. She wasn't ready to see them yet. At night, when everyone was sleeping, she would walked around the house and put her hands on her stomach and cry. By the early hours of the morning, Maureen would return to her cage.
'Maureen open the door', she heard Anthony said one afternoon.
'Are you alone?'
'I have Victoria'
'Go away'
'She misses her mother'
Reluctantly, the opened the door and Victoria ran into her mother's arms.
'I miss you mummy'
'I know'
Victoria looked at her mother and burst into tears. She knew her daddy was the cause of all these unhappiness. Anthony couldn't explain to Maureen that her daughter hardly concentrate in class. Victoria had withdrawn into a shell. She stopped fighting for attention and had turned down invitation to spend a week with Jordan. Joel tried and she had simply shook her head. Henry was the last to try and the little girl said 'no' in capital letters.
'Why?', Henry asked her.
'Nothing'
'Come, you can play with Miracle and Daisy'
'No. I don't want to go anywhere'
'You missed your daddy?'
Her little eyes lit up and she said, very loudly.
' How can you miss someone who doesn't want you, uncle Henry?'
With that she ran up the stairs to her room. No one ever invited her again. Her test results were nothing to write home about and she spent her time, in her room, alone, drawing and painting.
'Why do you cry?', Maureen asked
'Are you ill?'
'No, I am fine'
'Then stop hiding in this room', was all she said and ran out of the room.
There was silent. Maureen wondered. The girl was just four years old.
'your daughter is right. You can't hide here anymore'
'I am not hiding'
'What then are you doing?'
'Brooding'
'Then stop brooding. It is time for you to register yourself in a hospital for ante natal check-up'
'I will never go to Joel's'
'Okay. Go to any hospital of your liking. Your pregnancy is already four months. Shouldn't you start shopping?'
'I don't want to. Send any of the maid. I have Jake's ATM, that will cover the expenses.


*****
'Maureen?'
'She slowly turned and saw her brother. He looked at her with pity. She was already in her eight month. She managed to smile but she just stared at him.
'What do you want?'
'I am your only brother'
'If you are here to tell me 'I told you so' don't'
'I'm not here for that'
'Why are you here? To gloat at my misfortune?'
'No, to tell you that I miss you and that I am sorry for the way I treated you. You are a woman, capable of making a decision and i allowed my anger got the better of me and I shamed you terribly. Can you ever forgive me Maureen?'
'Joel..I'
'I'm tired of the silence Maureen. I can't bear it no more. I promise to never get in your way but allow you make your decisions even though, your decisions sometimes sulks'
'Okay'
'Hy, I want my meddling, stubborn, and selfish sister back or I swear I will die before my time'
Maureen ran into his arms and sobbed uncontrollably. He held her tightly to him and let his own tears fall. His parents left her in his care and he had failed her and them. He couldn't even protect her and look at her, hurt twice and there was nothing he could do.
'I'm sorry Maureen, I failed you'
He told her over and over again. She cried harder.
'You warned me Joel. I failed myself'
Ten minutes later, she took him to her room and the two sat on the bed.
'I brought you something'
'What?'
He went out and returned with a photo album. Maureen curiously sat up.
He opened and she was shocked to see pictures she never thought to see again. She saw her parents wedding picture, her mother holding Joel and then she saw her pictures when she was small. She saw the family pictures and then saw the last birthday she celebrated with her parents.
'Where did you get this from?'
'I went up to the antic. They were packed in a box. I bought this album'
'Oh Joel, I miss you'
Mich said to say hi. Jessica is yet to meet her aunt'
'Yes, but soon'
'Come Maureen', her brother commanded.
she went to him. He laid on the bed and she on his chest. They had finally made peace. She slept in his arms. Slept deeply and feeling very protected for the first time in months.
When he was sure she was asleep, Joel slowly slipped off the bed, he looked down at his sister. She wasn't a kid anymore. He kissed her cheek and covered her body with a duvet. Slowly, he walked out of the room.

*****
Somewhere in Lagos, Jake eyes slowly opened his eyes. He wondered where he was and tried to sat up but couldn't. The door snapped open and a young nurse came in
'Oh my God, he is awake', she shouted excitedly.
'Maureen. Call Maureen for me'
'Who is Maureen?', she asked, confused.
Another woman walked in. She was very excited. She looked so fresh and beautiful and calmed he almost smiled at her.
'I am your mother, why would you ask for her first instead of me?'
'Mother? You died a long time ago'
'Here I am, flesh and blood'
'What happened to me?'
'You had an accident and had been in a coma'
'How long?'
'Seven months'
He bolted.'What?'
;yes'
'I need to go. I promised Maureen and Victoria. Oh my God, they will hate me'
'You are going no where Jake. I lost Henry to Anthony, I won't loose you too. Since Anthony had Henry, you are mine'
'You kept me here for seven months?'
'Yes'
'You are crazy'
'No I'm not. Now, get well, there is this very beautiful lady that had been waiting. You will have s.x with her and you will give me a grandson'
'I will not, you crazy woman'
'Jake, you have no say in this matter, don't fight it. Lois will carry your baby, even if I have to chain you to that bed and watch her ride you'
At that moment, Jake knew that his mother was truly crazy. Philip came in with a chain and tied his hands and legs. He looked at the nurse who looked in astonishment at a mother who would chained her son. The nurse was his only hope of escape. Surely, his mother was not only crazy, she was obsessed.
He sighed and then remembered the accident that led him in this awful predicament

Tbrak:
Am Short Of Word, This Becoming More Intresting In New Dimension, Ineed To ask few questions how did jake got accident how did his mother get him and who is philip and his the mother riding his son am so sorry for marueen, tanx 4 dis update god will bless u ma. like oliver twist should i be expecting anoda update today? God Bless Ur Hand Our Dear Sister Ave A Nice Weekend

The character of philip was first revealed in 'a man to call her own' in which Henry told Linda that his mother wanted divorce from his mother to marry the love of her life. It was further revealed that Anthony knew about her affair with the so called philip, including her sons.

As for the accident, Jake couldn't remember it so you won't know what happened. Don't forget, we see the story through Jake and Maureen's eye. The day Jake recalled what happened is the day we will all get a glimpse at it too.

Lastly, the woman wasn't talking about riding her son, she said there is a lady waiting to ride him. You can ask the question, is Jake's mother insane? Or obsessed as philip had earlia told her

Removed

Removed

Lol, let me give you guys one update. Thank you all for standing by me.
Enjoy

jenny53:
when u wrotr reluctant bride, a man to call her own, deceitful couple you were sick at intervals sometimes it takes you more than 3months to recover, Now u are writing the fourth story and u re sick most you always fall sick ,must you always chase your readers away .

You are so selfish ma'am. You care for no one but yourself. I can't remember falling ill in reluctant bride but I can remember loosing a dear cousin. I can't remember falling ill during the time of 'a man to call her own'. In fact, it took me less than three months to complete it. During decietful couple, I remembered I had to stop indefinately because of plagiarism. That was the longest break I ever took. Then towards the end I fell ill for about two weeks.


You see, I owe you no explanation but two wrongs can never make a right. You musnt read this story. You know why? You don't pay me to write and I don't pay you to read. So, do us all a favour and make a choice.

Did you bother to ask if I am doing well? I was ill, fighting for my life, visiting the hospital on a daily basis and all you cared about is update? You look a bit matured in that pix of yours but I must say this, you lost whatever respect I have for you.

Thank you all for your patience, prayers and well wishes in this time of trials. May God bless each and everyone of you foor me.
How can I ever forget Heemah and hassan85 for the phone calls and inspirational messages? I say ramadam kareem to all our muslim brothers and sisters. I can noww say that I am finally back. If all goes well, will make an update within the week. Shalom

Hi to all. I am so sorry for my absence. It was unforseen and inevitable. I went through a very challenging time but I thank God for giving me the gift of life. You all won't believe that I was fighting for my life. Heemah, you are such a darling. Thanks for the call and the messages. To all those who prayed for me and showed concern for my absence I said thank you. Will be fully back in a couple of days.

By the way what happened to nl? Everything seemed to have changed