₦airaland Forum

rachealfst:
I noticed that and that's the reason why I dedicate today's episode to you. Thanks, love you too.

I love the moral lessons in your work. Also, I'll like to counsel that you read your work thoroughly before you post them. Writing is demanding but it is exciting. Good job, girl

gal10:
Wow! I enjoyed this immensely! Thank You

Thanks

Nwiboko26:
Yeah.despite d fact dat u delayed.u still kept ur promise.a round of applause for dis wonderful writer.u did well.

Glad you enjoy the story...Thanks for the accolade

I want to apologize for not updating regularly. It was as a result of work pressure coupled with the fact that I have to learn French Language as a requisite on my new job. How I wish I took Mr. K Nde ( a Cameroonian) serious while I was in secondary school. Now I regret running away from that French class. Yh... I ran away because he was a very wicked tutor who was always carrying fan belt as cane.


A big thanks to the following people in no particular order:

Klare, rachealfst, holufunmie, ChyEndowed, Diamondamsel, philixJ, shayo18, Olabantu, Nwiboko26, realchik9, tzminaj, remiseyi, Fijumokesayo, rollytee, uniquezahoda, janeso, Dioxidane, Oyinda417, chinma414, stellytwinkle, onihaxy, SexyCeline, bruiser007, chic91, Mercylin, MizEll, mariamferanmi, Tantidora, callherspices

and many others too...

Thank you for reading the story

29

"High Chief Kunle Sanda has just generously donated the property adjoining the City Kitchen." I was getting a little better at this. "This ensures the long-term viability of the Kitchen. I can't tell you how much his donation means to us and the people we feed. Truly a remarkable gift from the heart." The microphones shifted to Kunle Sanda and he humbly answered questions. He was much better at it than I. He tied himself to the Kitchen's survival and guaranteed it all in public. Definitely a better friend than enemy.


I slipped away as soon as I could. Shade was busy starting preparation. I jumped in and another day began. I brought down all the chairs and realigned the tables. Last night's clean-up crew didn't quite grasp Shade's meticulous tendencies. There were a couple of spots on the tables, which Shade seemed to spot from the kitchen. She looked like she meant to toss me a rag, then thought better and brought it out. She put it in my hand and then kissed me hard. I had to admit, it was better than a rag toss. She smiled and headed back into the kitchen, silent and very confident I knew what to do with the towel. I did.


"You know you're going to have to sing for them," Shade said when I pulled a basket of pepper out of the store. I knew she meant the police officers. "I know you did it for me, but they went above and beyond." I've sung twice, I could do it once more.

"If you're there, I will sing to you," I reasoned, "they can listen if they want." I loved making Shade laugh.

"You have such a lovely voice. You should share it." Shade moved toward me.

"Is it okay with you if I don't?" I asked honestly. She answered by kissing me again. Then she made me wash my hands. She had a way of making bossy seem so sexy.

The days that followed were wonderful. We spent our days running the kitchen and our nights; well the nights were simply more wonderful. I told Shade about Dolapo and she, in turn, told me about Richard. It was uncomfortable at first, but that faded quickly. We learned to share each other's pasts. With the FIRS in the rear view mirror, it made everything easier. Well, almost everything. Shade and I took a risk with Fabio after Femi Adeshina got back to me with the information I asked him to find.


I sat down with Fabio. I put a fish on his tray and he smiled. I did not. Shade sat down next to me and did the same. Fabio looked up at our serious faces, and I could see he felt uncomfortable.

"I found your daughter," I said quietly. Fabio lost his smile and his eyes swelled. He almost got up to leave. Shade covered his hand with hers and held him there. I could see him suffering and wondered if we had chosen wrong.
"She wants to see you," Shade said gripping his hand. I could see the panic in Fabio's eyes.

"She will hate me," Fabio stuttered, "I couldn't...I have to go." Fabio stood, Shade held his hand and stood with him. I was afraid he would leave and never come back.

"Please don't leave," Shade pleaded.


"I owe you Fabio," I said while I remained seated, "you can't live without helping each other out here." I repeated his words to him. Some of the first he told me after yanking me from the water. Shade gently pulled him back to his seat. His hands were shaking.

"You don't understand," Fabio said, "I couldn't...I left her." I understood more than he knew, Femi saw to that. His wife left, then, he lost his job. His world collapsed in on him.


"You left me with the Kachikwus," a soft voice behind him said, "they are a wonderful family." Fabio turned quickly, his eyes meeting his daughter's.


"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," Fabio cried. Shade had to let go of his hand. He rose and I thought he was going to run. Tokunbo Kachikwu smiled at her dad.


"Forgiven," Tokunbo said softly, "for what, I don't know, but you're forgiven." She took Fabio's hand in hers. "Can you tell me about my mother?" Fabio's eyes were tearing and he wiped them on his sleeve.


"Yes," Fabio choked out.

We watched as Tokunbo and Fabio talked. His smile began to appear as the conversation continued. I wrapped my arm around Shade and pulled her close.

"That went better than I expected," I said, "maybe she can talk him into going to a dentist." Shade smiled up at me.

"I love that you did that." Shade's eyes told me she loved more than what I did. It was the middle of dinner; the dining room was full with more hungry coming in. It was not the place, but it was the time.


"I love you," I said. I had thought it, and I had shown it. Now I said it without fear or guilt.

SHADE

"I love you," David said, with his eyes glued to mine. I knew he did, but it was the words that made my heart explode. I smiled up at him.


"I love you, too" I repeated to David. The way he shouldered the problems, making them his own. The way he made my pulse quicken by looking at me like he was right then. He was my future. He pulled me close and kissed me, the dining room disappeared and I barely heard the well-meaning gibes flowing from the tables. I loved the strength he didn't know he had.
Richard had that type of strength. He made me promise him before he died. A promise I thought I would fail to keep. Not anymore. 'Richard, I kept my promise. I found love again.'

THE END

28
We awoke early the next morning. We played lovingly in the early morning light before the time brought Shade back to reality. We showered quickly. Well, as quickly as two people who weren't done exploring each other could. The City Kitchen needed to be opened so I tamped down on my passion. We dressed in yesterday's clothes and headed out looking for a cab. Yeni tried to stop us as the front doors opened, but her warning came too late.

A small cheer went up, cameras flashed and reporters armed with microphones ran toward us. Femi had been busy. We smiled and waved as we tried desperately to break away.
Finally, I stopped and grabbed Shade's hand. The crowd quieted down.

"For twelve years the City Kitchen has never missed a day," I said, raising our hands, "please, we're late." Some of the reporters stepped back, others did not. Police broke through the throng and I couldn't be happier to see them. They led us to an unmarked vehicle and made sure we got out of there. I watched the reporters packing up to follow. No, fame did not sit well with me.
There were two reporters at the City Kitchen. Luckily, the main force was still en route. The cameras and questions were more cordial since they didn't have to fight with anyone. We were cordial in return, and answered some easy questions. A well-dressed man in expensive white agbada made of brocade was standing by the door as we approached. He was older, but had an air of sophistication that offset it with confidence.

"Ms. Aiyeto," the man bowed his head slightly, "I wonder if I might have a word with you and Mr. Akeju." I moved forward. I didn't like the way he carried himself. Way too authoritative.

"And you are?" Shade asked from behind me. This was her place and she exhibited the same confidence back at the man. The man smiled contritely.
"I would prefer we spoke inside," he nodded to the reporters. "I suspect it would cause a scene neither of us could afford out here." I knew exactly who he was. He wasn't hiding behind lawyers this time.


"I believe this is High Chief Kunle Sanda," I said quietly. Shade clenched her teeth and unlocked the door.


"Thank you," Kunle Sanda said as he entered following Shade. She moved quickly into the dining room, and turned, wearing a less than friendly expression.


"You're trying to ruin me," Shade said. You could almost smell the poison in the air. I moved again to position myself slightly between the two. I wasn't sure who I was protecting anymore. Shade looked like she might go for his eyes.


"Actually," Kunle Sanda said calmly "I was trying to make you cave. I would have never taken it too far. I must admit, I didn't expect the retaliation." I was about ready to hold him down and let Shade scratch his eyes out. He shook his head and held up his hand when he saw our anger brewing.

"I'm done," Kunle Sanda said, trying to cool us down, "to me, business is life." He looked around the dining room. "I see you two have a different view."


"Why?" Shade asked with her anger still at the forefront.

"Simple answer. You thwarted my plan." Kunle Sanda shrugged his shoulders. "It's the equivalent of throwing down a missile at me. I fought back." He chuckled. "I just completely underestimated you. The amount of support you two gathered was impressive."

"You could have sent your lawyer to concede," I said with disdain. I wasn't sure why he was here. I worried this was just another play.


"I am here to plead, Mr. Akeju." Kunle Sanda was smiling as he spoke. He found the situation humorous. "You two have me by the balls. I wouldn't blame you if you decided to finish me off, but I have learned my lesson. I apologize." He bowed to Shade whose expression changed to one of bewilderment.


"We haven't touched you." My confusion was apparent. "You've had us jumping through hoops the whole time." Kunle Sanda laughed proudly.


"It's your friends who have been thrusting the knives." Kunle Sanda seemed generally surprised at our ignorance. "I have three of my companies contracts revoked. At this rate, I will be out of business by the end of the quarter. I won't even tell you what the Governor’s office thinks of me right now." Shade was trying to hide a smile.

"Look, I wouldn't blame you if you buried me." Kunle Sanda had lost his smile. "I'm rich. I'll survive. I have people who work for me who aren't rich. I would rather not hand out, not to mention having to tell my wife why." He looked at me. "She thinks you're something special. God only knows why," he said, shaking his head. Shade let out a suppressed chuckle. I just cringed.

"Apology accepted, " Shade said. The loss of jobs would have hurt her more than Kunle Sanda.

"Good," Kunle Sanda said. "I sent the deed to the adjoining property with a transfer agreement to Barrister Sarah Waziri. If you agree to the donation, the land behind this City Kitchen belongs to you from now on. Consider it atonement for my sins against you and the homeless people you feed daily."
High Chief Kunle Sanda turned to go, then stopped and turned back. "The first lady won’t be in office forever, you could have worse friends than me." He was offering more than an olive branch. He was offering long-term stability. I looked at Shade and she shrugged her shoulders to defer to me. Kunle Sanda was one hell of an enemy. I suspected he was one hell of a friend also.
"This doesn't mean I like you," I said as I walked toward the door. Kunle Sanda smiled and followed me out. I had a feeling he always came out smelling like roses. The full press corps had caught up with us, and cameras were flashing as we exited. Microphones were shoved in my face and I answered a few simple questions. I put up my hands to stall more -- I was surprised when it worked. I pulled Kunle Sanda next to me.

Oops...what a pressure of work in a strange land...God help me

Sorry followers...I never intended to disappoint ...just forgive me


27


It was 10:00 pm when I finally made it to the seventh floor and collapsed backward onto the bed. It had been a long day and it took its toll. I had promised myself I would consider the future once the banquet was over. Technically, this night wasn't truly over, but I knew I couldn't put the decisions off much longer. I relaxed my muscles; they had been stiff all day. I felt the stress leave as I closed my eyes. An image of Shade formed, 'and I'll always love Richard.' It echoed in my skull. I tried to see Dolapo, but her image kept getting replaced. I remembered how it felt to hold Shade. I sang to her. I snapped up to a sitting position, eyes wide, my muscles tensed again, loaded with guilt.

I was startled by a quiet knock at the door. I shook my head to clear my thoughts and headed to the door. I was about to open it when I heard another knock, but not from the hall door as I had originally thought. It was the door between Shade's room and mine. My heart pounded hard and my throat thickened. I was hoping I wouldn't see her until morning. Too much was going through my head and I didn't particularly like myself right now. I was crapping all over what Dolapo and I had built. I opened the door slowly and kind of blocked the entry with my body. Shade didn't attempt to enter.

"Hi," Shade said kindly. Her hands came together loosely in front of her. It looked defensive in response to me blocking the door. I felt worse. My first impulse was to yell at her, my second was to slam the door closed. Instead, I took a step back and let her in. My problems were not hers.

"Hi," I returned. My greeting was more generic. Shade entered and I closed the door. I should have left it open. With it closed I felt trapped. I fidgeted until I decided to fold my arms in front of me and lean against the wall.

"Guilt?" Shade asked softly. My arms fell down at her question. I put my hands in my pockets as I tried to come up with some kind of response. I had to look away. Her eyes were too caring.

"I'm sorry." It was a creepy response. It was packed full of deceit. I should have just told her to leave.

"I'm not," Shade said and sat on my bed. She wasn't leaving. I had to look back at her or kick her out. One or the other. I looked back and shame filled me. "Dolapo was incredible. I can see it in everything you do. The way you care, the way you make my problems your own. She nurtured that in you. I wouldn't have you any other way."


"It hurts," I said truthfully, "I'm forgetting what she looks like. What does that make me?"


"Human," Shade answered.


"I see you instead," I said, "it's tearing me up, dishonouring her like that."


"You sang for me," Shade said, nodding. My eyes swelled and I closed them to hold it all in. "It was lovely," she added.


"Femi set me up," I said stupidly. Shade laughed which made me smile.


"You sang to me," Shade clarified.


"Yes," I sighed, "why did it feel like I was insulting her?"


"Because you love her," Shade said simply, "you will always love her. I don't want you to ever stop loving her." Shade stood and stepped toward me. "I want you to make room for me too."

"I already have," I said quietly.

"Good," Shade smiled, "I've made room for you." Her hand softly found the back of my neck and gently pulled my lips down to hers. 'I love you Dolapo,' I thought as Shade's lips met mine. 'I love you Shade,' I thought as Shade's tenderness engulfed me. I wrapped my hands around her and pulled her closer and returned the kiss as passion invaded. It was a different passion, Shade's passion. Separate from what I had felt with Dolapo. Dolapo would always have my past, I decided to give Shade my future.

I lifted Shade into my arms, she was lighter than I had expected. Her giggle tickled my ears. I laid her on the bed and crawled up her body and kissed her again. She tentatively licked my lower lip and our passion grew. Our tongues entwined as we enjoyed each other's desire. I fumbled with the buttons on the front of her blouse, trying desperately not to break away from her soft lips. We ended up laughing as we got all tangled up in each other's clothes.

Shade pushed me off her and stood up smiling, her clothes all askew. I watched as her blouse hit the floor, followed quickly by her flowery blue skirt. She stood before me confidently in white panties and bra. I realized I was staring, and started to quickly UnCloth. I threw my shirt over the bed and a bra hit me in the face. Shade had a sly smile as I took in her perky breasts. They were small, and incredibly cute. I tossed her bra after my shirt, and raised my hips to remove my pants. Shade laughed and I glanced down to see my man.hood poking proudly through my boxers.

Shade reached over and shut off the light and crawled onto the bed as I lost the boxers. I felt a small tinge of guilt when her naked body folded into mine. I think she felt the tension and she slowed down.


"Second thoughts?" Shade asked compassionately. I think she would have stopped right then and there if I had asked her.


"It's just hard," I said catching my breath. I wanted this and I wanted it to be with Shade. I needed to move Dolapo out of the way without losing her.


"I was hoping it was," Shade joked as her hand wrapped around my arousal.


"That's not what I meant," I said with humour in my voice. Her hand slammed the passion back into me. I groaned a bit.


"I know what you meant," Shade whispered in my ear as she removed her hand, "I will wait if you want me to. I will wait as long as you need."

"I don't want to wait," I said and kissed her lips. I felt them smile and my heart jumped at her joy. She rose and straddled me. Her hand positioned me between her legs and she lowered herself. My moan matched hers as I entered her. She didn't stop until her butt was sitting on my thighs. We fit well together. She leaned forward with me inside her. Her hands cradled my face, my hands caressed her sides.


"I loved when you sang to me," Shade cooed as she moved her hips slowly, "it was so beautiful. I knew then, I wanted to be right where I am now." She kissed me, then placed her forehead on mine, and concentrated on her movements, her breathing increasing. I lowered my hands, finding her little butt and helping her move. The sensations were burning into me, her need forcing mine forward. Unexpectedly, her body went rigid and she breathed a low moan onto my lips. I held her as she collapsed into me, little tremors forcing her legs taut, then loose. I lifted her slightly and rolled her onto her back, while remaining coupled. She gave a sated sigh, and I could feel her smile in the dark.

"I'm sorry," Shade said languorously, "that was kind of greedy." I felt her suppressing a chuckle which forced me to smile.

"It was beautiful," I said truthfully, "feeling you let go like that." She laughed lightly, reaching up and stroking my cheek.

"It took nine years." I stroked the side of her cheek as Shade spoke. I felt a slight wetness there. I felt her hips move, exciting me again. "I won't let you wait that long." Our lips met, passion flooding me again. My hips raised then lowered slowly, her arms pulling me deeper. Her moans, as I complied, brought me back to the cusp. Her breathing increased and I felt her tremors building again. I dropped my lips to her shoulder and lost myself in her. My whole body trembled as I gave myself to her, her body responding like mine. For a brief moment, there was nothing but us. It was a heaven I wasn't sure I deserved, but I greedily took.

When my mind returned, I rolled onto my side taking Shade with me. I ran my hand across her cheek, pushing the sweaty hair I found there behind her ear. I kissed her forehead.

"I was contemplating my future before you came in," I said softly. I ran my hand down her arm and entwined my fingers in hers.


"What are you planning?" Shade asked.


"I thought I was going to run," I answered, "now...I could become a nuisance, you know." Shade's hand ran down my side and stopped on my ass, which she squeezed lightly.

"Stay," was all Shade said. She was the only one who understood. I wasn't going anywhere. I had made room for her. It wasn't fair to make Shade share, but I was bit jealous of Richard as well. I was comfortable in her arms. We fit well together.

"I plan to," I said, and then smiled, "greed is not necessarily a bad thing." I loved making her laugh.

Thanks for your mails...I am really encouraged to do more.

26

"There are numerous camera crews outside," Yeni said as the elevator doors closed, "we were prepared for crowds, but this is exceeding our expectations. We have opened the two adjoining conference rooms to give you more space. It may still not be enough." She was confident, but I sensed a bit of frustration in her voice.

"I am sure it's perfect," Shade said, smiling. She wrapped her hand around mine. "We appreciate all you have done." I felt a tinge of guilt when I gave her hand a small squeeze. Her hand shouldn't feel so comfortable, it just shouldn't.

Yeni gave us each a key card, 701 for Shade and 703 for me. I followed Shade and Yeni into Shade's room. It was fairly large room with a small sitting area with four leather chairs surrounding a short, round coffee table. There was a bucket containing ice with and a bottle of what looked like champagne nestled inside.

"From the first lady," Yeni said, pointing at the champagne. We each took a leather seat and Yeni unfolded a piece of paper she had pulled out of her skirt pocket. "The caterer is already here, they are expecting to begin serving at six. The first lady would like five minutes, if you wouldn't mind. Her chief of staff said it would be strictly in support of the City Kitchen." Yeni stopped there and looked at Shade.

"That will be fine." Shade shrugged. This was all getting bigger than we had expected.

"How long will you need?" Yeni asked Shade.
"Pardon?"

"Your speech, how long do you need?" Yeni repeated. I don't think Shade was planning on more than a thank you. I could see her thinking within herself, trying to put something together.

"You can tell them about Richard, how it all started," I said helpfully, "'I Need An Angel' and the number of people that get fed. They might as well know what it means to you." Shade smiled at me.

"Five minutes would be fine," Shade answered with confidence.

"And you Mr. Akeju?" Yeni looked at me and I looked at Shade.

"I am just here to support Shade," I said, "I wasn't planning on saying anything."

Yeni gave a small grunt of surprise. "You're going to disappoint a lot of people," Yeni said with a condescending tone. "A lot of people are expecting a song." I looked between Yeni's grim expression and Shade's suppressed grin.

"I guess I could say a few words. Maybe talk about the people I met and how the kitchen helps them." I was thinking about Fabio. "I could come up with a few minutes."

Yeni scribbled something down on her paper and looked back up to Shade. "I spoke with a Femi Adeshina and he told me about 'I Need An Angel.' We are prepared to play it when the buffet opens if you like."

"That would be wonderful. Thank you, Yeni." Shade looked very pleased and I thought it would be a wonderful addition. Everything seemed to have a nice flow to it. Shade could explain 'I Need An Angel's' significance and it would lead right into it getting played. The only thing that could disturb that flow would be me saying a few words.

"I think 'I Need An Angel' should come right after Shade's speech, you know, right after she explains its meaning," I offered.

"That makes sense," Yeni agreed, "but when would you speak." I wouldn't, I thought. I threw that wonderful thought away.
"Maybe during dinner I could say a few words." Maybe everyone would forget I exist by then. If not, I could just give everyone a great big thank you. Short and sweet. Shade laughed. She knew exactly what I was thinking. Dolapo would have really liked her.

"I think they are expecting more than a thank you," Shade said. She knew me as well as I knew myself. It was unsettling to hear her dissecting my thoughts.


"I can talk about Fabio and Jummai," I offered, "how much it all means to them. How much it means to me that they have food though homeless." It was off the top of my head, but would be easy to talk about.

"Perfect," Shade said, her face going compassionate, "they need to know why they are donating and I can't think of a better way." I smiled. It wasn't a smile I could control. Pleasing Shade was becoming important.

"I'll make sure everything is set, and someone will come to get you around 5:30," Yeni said, "sure you won't sing?"

"I haven't prepared anything," I said with a sorrowful shrug. Yeni left, promising the night will go smoothly as possible. Her confidence left us feeling pretty good about the event.

"I'm sorry you had to come out of hiding," Shade said once we were alone.

"You are worth it." I meant to say the City Kitchen was worth it. My mouth was moving faster than my brain. I stood quickly and headed for the door, "I'm going to get cleaned up," I said as an excuse. I didn't want to look back, my hormones are raging again. It took a few deep breaths behind the closed door of my room to calm myself. I sat on the bed and stared at the wall, wondering how Shade mixed with all my guilt. I closed my eyes and fell back on the bed. I lay there until there was a knock on the door. It was 5:30.

I met Shade in the hall. She looked at me with kind eyes. The kind that didn't look away from the shame I was feeling. The kind that begged to share the guilt. Those kinds of kind eyes. She held out her hand and I took it. This time she pulled me close as we headed toward the elevator. She raised on her tip toes.

"You're worth it too," Shade whispered in my ear. I didn't feel like I was. I lightly kissed her forehead for the thought. She leaned into my shoulder and we rode the elevator down, more comfortable than I deserved.

The elevator opened on the first floor to a row of police officers their uniforms. A smiling official escort. The whole thing was way out of proportion. We entered the huge banquet hall to a round of applause. Shade took it gracefully; I cringed. She turned to me, smiled and mouthed "thank you." The place was packed. Every table was full and many were standing along the walls. There were three buffet lines and we walked along the one in the centre, toward the stage. I saw Tony Bakare looking good in his dress with his wife on his arm. I felt ridiculous, but I stepped over to him as we passed and shook his hand. He had done a lot and at least my thanks were in order.

"This is my wife, Rebecca," Tony introduced his overly excited wife. I still didn't understand what women expected from my unexpected fame. More than I obviously knew how to deliver.

"It's wonderful to meet you," I said holding out my hand. Rebecca laughed and gave me bear hug. A cheer arose and suddenly I had to shake everyone's hand all the way to the stage. I also had to endure a few more hugs. I was feeling trepidations when I arrived at the stage. Shade stood waiting, obviously enjoying my embarrassment.

I went to stand next to Shade, just to the right of the podium. I turned to see a sea of people, all out of their chairs. The police officers made up half the attendees. In the middle, off to the left, there were two tables filled with my ex-coworkers and my good friend and boss, Mofe Alege. Some of them waving. Out of habit, I waved back. There were more cheers and I thought 'screw it' and waved to everyone. Up front, I noticed Femi with his cameraman filming it all. My smile felt fake, it was hard to leave it on my face. I would never make a good politician.
I saw the first lady make her way onto the stage. Her smile looked real as she approached Shade and me. She shook my hand gracefully. I was being used, but it was worth it if it helped the City Kitchen. He moved over to Shade and kind of pulled her closer to me when he shook her hand.

"I understand Kunle Sanda is causing you some grief," the first lady said just loud enough for only the two of us to hear, "let's see if we can put an end to that." She winked at us. Both Shade and I lit up with large, honest grins. I am sure it played well for the camera and made the first lady look good. I had no problem paying the price. Shade just loved the support. The first lady took the podium.

"It looks like half the city is here," the first lady yelled when she reached the microphone. The crowd cheered and the applause continued until the first lady asked it to stop with her hands. "Do you know what makes this State great?" She paused for effect, then answered her own question while pointing at Shade, "it's people like Shade Aiyeto. The City Kitchen provides a safety net for all those wonderful souls who fall through the cracks of our great society. She doesn't do it with tax evasion or by demanding concessions. She is there every day unselfishly giving of herself with one mission in mind." The first lady dramatically cast her eyes across the crowd. She was a speaker and really good at it. Her husband, the Governor was always depending on her during electioneering campaigns to make speeches. "No one leaves the City Kitchen hungry," she said it with gusto and pounded her fist on podium. The crowd ate it up. The applause was deafening and Shade looked awfully cute in her ebony skin. I didn't need to fake my smile any more. I was proud standing next to her.

"Our proud police officers know this. I see most of them right here." The first lady cast her arm across the crowd to more hefty applause. "I see it in all your eyes as you open your wallets to support the City Kitchen. I am proud to be among you, to call you fellow citizens. I want you to know my husband, his excellency, the executive Governor of this State and I stand with you. As long as I am first lady, the initiative Shade Aiyeto and her late husband created will stand strong right where it is. No one will interfere with the support it provides." The crowd went nuts again. I am not sure how many in the crowd knew what was going on, but the first lady just shut down High Chief Kunle Sanda, on the record.
"I would like to introduce you to the driving force behind the City Kitchen," the First lady said, still in her excited speaking voice, "a role model for us all, Shade Aiyeto." I smiled at her as she headed to the podium and once again shook the first lady’s hand. The first lady spent a few seconds patting my shoulder and smiling with me as she exited the stage. At least my fame had bought Shade a strong defender.

Shade was a competent speaker. Not the vibrant play to the crowd type like the first lady, but she was confident. She spoke about how she and Richard started the kitchen. At the time it was mostly Richard driving the dream. How it became her dream as well. The crowd became quiet as she mentioned Richard's passing and her promise to make sure the kitchen continued. She spoke well of the progress and future of the kitchen.

"I have kept one tradition as a tribute to my late husband," Shade said calmly, "every day at 4:00 a song is played. It was his favorite and substitutes for our dinner bell when he died. We will play it now to open the buffet." The silence permeated the room as we waited for the music to start. It didn't come and Shade started looking around anxiously. I saw Yeni moving quickly to the stage with a worried look on her face. I happened to glance down at the Femi. He was smiling, an awfully sneaky smile. There was a gleam in his eye. I knew then; he had set me up.

My heart started pounding and I closed my eyes. There were way too many people here. I heard Yeni whispering something about a missing flash drive to Shade. 'I Need An Angel' was a bit too tough for me because of the richness of the voice of Rueben Studdard. I knew the words; I've heard them every day for months. The tune had melted into my brain long ago. If I could just slow it down, sing it at my pace. I tried to pull Dolapo together in my mind. I could always sing to her. The images were fleeting, my weak memory failing. My hands began to shake as I opened my eyes to a bewildered crowd. I turned toward Shade. She was flustered and confused when she looked at me. Her eyes met mine and her face shifted to concern.

I sang. I sang to her...

[b]I've run out of answers I've run out of time
And I'm so confused that I'm loosin my mind
Its gonna take a miracle to help me this time
I'm traveling a road that has not one sign Help me...
Have mercy on me... Set my soul free...
And let the bell in my heart ring.... Oooo
This is my cry, hey, this is my plea, ya see

[Chorus:]
I need an angel,
I'm callin an angel, send me an angel down [2x's]

I'm carryin a load that's too heavy for me
Have nowhere to go so I'm down on my knee
I'm tryin to see the forest but there's this one tree
Can't understand why I'm sinking so deep
Help me (Help Me Help Me) have mercy on me (Wont you have mercy on me)
Set my soul free, and let the bell in my heart ring
This is my cry, this is my plea

[Chorus:]
I need an angel (I need an angel)
I'm calling an angel, send me an angel (Send it on down)
Here Me Now I need an angel (I need an angel)

I'm calling an angel, send me an angel (Send it on down)
Oooh something inside me telling me the morning will come (Morning will Come) Yes it will
Oooh sometimes it's hard to face the truth so we run (We Run)
God if you care at all please don't let me fall by the wayside (Oh No)
Please be my guide, would you light my path...
Take Me, Shape Me, Mold Me, Change Me, Teach Me, Fill Me, Save Me

I need an angel (I need an angel) I'm calling an angel, send me an angel (Send it on down)
I need an angel (I need an angel) I'm calling an angel, send me an angel (Send it on down)
I know it's gotta be some kinda angel out there for me Send a angel down right now
Send a angel down right now[/b]

The words just flowed as I memorized every facet of Shade's face. I saw her eyes swell, a tear run down her cheek. I sang the song at my pace. Our pace. Shade held my eyes and I drew confidence from her and sang stronger. She took a step toward me as I came to the end. When I finished, she jumped into my arms and I didn't want her anywhere else. I turned her face away from the crowd so they wouldn't see her tears. They saw mine instead. The applause was deafening.

I pulled away slightly when my heart began to slow. My mouth moved as fast at my guilt, "I love Dolapo." I don't know what I expected, but a smile wasn't it. Shade raised her mouth to my ear and whispered.

"And I'll always love Richard." Shade kissed my cheek softly and slowly separated from me, her hands following my arms down until she was holding both my hands. "We have guests to thank," she said, her smile defying the tears on her cheeks. I nodded and we headed down the stage stairs and began going from table to table.

I stopped when I passed by Femi who was trying to follow me around with his cameraman. Smiling for the rest of the world, I leaned into his ear. "You're supposed to report the news, not create it." He laughed and handed me the missing flash drive.
"I didn't report everything Fabio told me," Femi said conspiratorially, "consider it payment for keeping my pen quiet." I thought about it. He was slime, but a compassionate one.

We spent the rest of the buffet thanking the hundreds of people who showed up. We thanked the first lady for her speech and she made sure Femi got a good shot of her with us. I have no idea how it would play with everyone else, I just know her husband had my vote next election.

I was never any good at accepting public praise. The constant comments about my singing were embarrassing me. I was lucky Shade was there to shield some of the praise. She had a way of allowing me to accept it without having to come up with too many verbal responses beyond the occasional thank you. I just let her do most of the talking. Some of the women were a little aggressive, but Shade always seemed to slide between them and me. For some reasons, I was expected to hug closely. My clothes had absorbed a hundred perfumes by the time we finished.

The police officers were ecstatic I was coming to the Boxing event. I had no choice but to seem excited. They were here for us, so I would be there for them. I really didn't want to sing again. It just seemed to draw more unwanted attention and the stage fright was slightly debilitating. I would be there though, hopefully increasing the attendance as they had for us. They were good friends to have. I thanked detective Bakare heartily again, since he is the one who put it in motion.

I was called up to the stage once again. I had almost forgotten I would have to say a few words. Shade came up with me and I welcomed her company. The stage was a lonely place to be. I spoke briefly about the City Kitchen, about the people I met and how much the kitchen meant to them. We were one link in a support structure for those who had lost their traditional ones. I spoke of Fabio and how his warped view of life helped me endure the death of my wife. I thought about Fabio as I spoke and I wondered how much he had lost. There had to be a reason he had given up and chosen his strange freedom. I closed, pledging my support and thanking all those in attendance. The applause was warm and everyone stood up. I was uncomfortable with it and glad Shade was there with me, her hand taking hold of my fidgety one.

I felt the Femi owed me one after the stunt he pulled. There were things I needed to know. When I came down from the stage I asked him quietly for help. He said he would try. Now I owed him again.

To Klare on your birthday...you have golden heart and I am sure God is always by your side...yes He will always. Happy birthday to you.
This Episode 26 is dedicated to you

I am not Fiyah

Okay, let's BRING IT ON

25

The next two days saw the auditors busied at work. Sarah Waziri stopped by the second day with a copy of the law suit. She and Shade talked strategy while I helped the auditors with data demands. In the middle of it all, we prepared the kitchen for the night's dinner. Femi showed up just before 'I Need An Angel' to get some background on the City Kitchen. His articles had created a frenzy and he needed more information to keep them going. I took him to Fabio, the resident expert on the subject. Femi had no trouble fitting in and making friends. He liked to listen and Fabio liked being the expert.

The media spent those days camped out in front of the City Kitchen. Detective Bakare made sure there were enough police that the media kept their distance. A couple of reporters tried to sneak through as homeless and were caught. Jummai was eagle-eyed; she pointed them out and looked good doing it. It was a crazy moment, but no one left hungry so Shade was happy.

The day of the banquet brought with it a wonderful surprise. In the past, Shade would run the kitchen as normal then rush to the banquet site leaving a crew to clean. It made for an extremely hectic day. Before noon, two men and a woman all dressed in white chef attire met with Shade.

"Mr Seyi Morgan sent us," the tall man said with an air of authority, "I'm Chuks Odinga and this is Raymond and Morinsola. We're here to replace you for the day and let you concentrate on the banquet." Morgan Catering was the firm catering the banquet. I guessed they wanted to make sure Shade wasn't upset with their flip flop. Shade looked them up and down and decided they could handle it.

"That would be lovely," Shade said with a grin.

"Do you think we could meet David Akeju?" Morinsola asked. I blushed at the request. I was not used to my fleeting fame. Shade laughed and introduced me.

"The beard makes you look older," Morinsola said as she shook my hand. I could see undeserved admiration in her eyes.

"It was just a disguise," I informed her, "I'll shave it soon."

"I sure hope so," Shade interjected, "I've hated that thing since the first day." I suddenly hated the beard myself.

"Have you thought about what you're going to wear tonight?" I tried to say something, but Shade jumped in.

"I was thinking black trouser and shirt. It would look dashing with his frame." Shade had obviously put some thought into it. I was going to try to tell her I didn't have anything like that when Morinsola jumped back in.

"He would need black shoes with a matching leather belt." Morinsola examined me closer. "Maybe the shirt should be collarless with a hint of grey to offset the trouser."

"Ladies," I said, a little exasperated, "I don't own anything like that. I was just going to wear some chinos with a polo shirt." Shade shook her head and smiled.

"We're going shopping, David. There's no way I am going let you look like a dork." Morinsola giggled at Shade's demand. I just sighed and agreed.

Shade spent the better part of an hour with the crew, explaining the planned menu and how things worked. She explained the 'I Need An Angel' dinner bell and was adamant about the 4:00 time. Chuks took notes and complemented Shade on the cleanliness of the facility. He put her mind at ease and guaranteed her no one would leave hungry. He certainly seemed competent and I could tell Shade thought so as well.

It took four police officers to get us out of the City Kitchen. We were able to make it out the back with limited exposure. A plain cloths officer was assigned to drive us where we needed to go.

"So, you're really going to sing at the police boxing match?" He asked, after we escaped in his unmarked car.

"I never said I was going to sing," I answered, trying not to sound ungrateful for the force's help.
Shade looked at me, a little surprised. I had forgotten to tell her about the event.

"You got to," He went on, "it's the only reason my girlfriend is going to come. She hates the fights, but she adores you." A felt my face flush again. It was only one talent contest. This was getting a little out of hand. I certainly didn't deserve anyone's admiration.

"You agreed to this?" Shade asked. I looked over to her.

"Tony asked. I couldn't say no, not with everything he was doing to help us out," I explained. Shade took my hand in hers.
"Us," Shade said softly. Some guilt leaked into my mind, memories of Dolapo. Shade's hand felt good in mine. I wasn't sure if I should like it. My heart was beating faster than it should. "I'll be there with you, singing or not." She squeezed my hand with affection. God help me, I squeezed back.

The officer took us to a men's shop downtown. A young woman attended to us. I felt like a mannequin as the ladies had me try on different trousers and shirts. They discussed the results as if I wasn't present and pretty much ignored my likes and dislikes. I tried on six pairs of shoes before Shade was happy. Cosiness was not one of the criteria she considered. I would have just picked a pair of nice brown suede shoes if I had a choice in the matter. I had to admit, I did look pretty sharp in the mirror. I just didn't think I could live up to the image staring back at me. Shade was pleased so I agreed, as if I had much of a choice.

I pulled out my ATM card as we approached the Point of Sale. The young woman spent some time making calls and I was wondering if I needed a fortune to make the purchase. She shook her head and smiled when I tried to hand her the credit card.

"We would like to donate the clothes Mr. Akeju," She said calmly, "for the City Kitchen."

"You recognized us?" Shade said with big smile.

"Not at first, that beard played trick on me," She said, matching Shade's smile.

"Thank you, and please call me David," I said, genuinely touched by her generosity.

"You're so welcome, Mr David, The Promise Keeper," She said, "I really hope you remember us next time you shop." The offer was laced with a fondness I didn't deserve. I was happy my beard covered a good portion of my cheeks. I was not designed for fame.

"Of course," I stuttered. Shade stifled a giggle and led me out the door like Dolapo would do.

The next stop was an upscale unisex salon. The beard was going to go, and with it, whatever I had left of my anonymity. Shade was excited. I would have preferred if she just handed me a shaving stick. My hair was bushy, but I had become comfortable with it. She wasn't having any of it. For some reason, I was letting her run all over me. She was a formidable woman. I was sure Dolapo would have liked her. Dolapo would have never let me get so unkempt.

Pelumi was her stylist, or so she said. She looked too young to be anything but an amateur. She had a crazy jerry curled and dyed hair.
"What are we doing to hair today?" Pelumi asked. Again, before I had a chance to answer, Shade jumped in.

"First, let's remove the beard and then..." I raised my hand sharply and gave Shade a look. I didn't want to, but I felt I was losing myself. It was my head after all. "Sorry," she said and covered her smile with her hand. I gathered my thoughts and realized I messed up.

"Um...shave off the beard and..." I had no idea how I wanted my hair. I turned my head sideways and looked at it in the mirror. I rolled my eyes, "and however she wants it." I nodded my head weakly toward Shade who was no longer covering her silly grin.

"Get it off the collar and ears," Shade kicked back in without missing a beat, "leave the sideburns down to about here." She touched just in front of my ear sending an unexpected shiver down my neck, "Can you use a trimmer to layer it a bit, you know, business-like, but with a little modern style." She had some kind of vision for my head. It had to be better than my vision. Suddenly, I had two women touching my head all over.

I was a mannequin again. She went on doing a good job of giving me a nice shave.

"I know you." Pelumi's smile grew. "You're that promise guy." I think my face was already red from the hot towel. At least I hoped so. I raised my finger to my lips and formed the international quiet symbol. "You're the promise guy," she repeated in a whisper. I nodded my head. "Can I get an autograph?" she asked. I rolled my eyes. Shade thought the whole thing was hilarious. Pelumi didn't wait for an answer, she grabbed a marker and I ended up signing her blow dryer. It was my first autograph, and hopefully my last. I am not a celebrity for goodness sake.

Pelumi went to work on my hair. Large clumps of hair were falling down onto the cape she had covered me with. I felt she was touching me more than necessary. Her fingers would slide along my neck and up behind my ear. She would lightly fluff my hair as she cut, her fingers not flicking, but combing along my scalp, as she was petting me. At first I thought they were accidental. Their frequency increased and it began to feel like pre-intimacy.

Shade moved closer to me, examining the length being cut off. She absently placed her hand over mine. Like magic, Pelumi stopped the stroking. It was some kind of secret female nonverbal communication. Shade stepped back again, but Pelumi never returned to the caressing. It was strictly hair cutting from then on and I was thankful for it.

"You really have to stop flirting with every girl you meet," Shade said once we had returned to the car. I heard the officer driver clearing his throat.

"I didn't do anything to encourage her," I claimed, "I'm just happy it stopped."

"You look a lot younger without the beard, "The officer stated in the rear view mirror. I rubbed my hand along my newly shaved face. I had to admit it was nice to finally get rid of the beard. Shade ran the back of her hand softly along my jaw.

"It certainly feels a lot younger," Shade commented. The officer's eyes whipped back to the road in embarrassed reflex. The hand was an intimate gesture. It didn't seem like it affected Shade that way. She just smiled and turned her head to look out the window. My thoughts turned to Dolapo, then back to Shade and the back of her hand. I closed my eyes and tried to see Dolapo. It was hard, the image imperfect and my thoughts were muddling it up. My memory was such a weak tool.

He brought the car to the back of the Hill Point hotel, the venue for the banquet. We entered through an employee only door where a tall lady in a business skirt and white blouse greeted us.

"Welcome Mrs. Aiyeto, Mr. Akeju," the lady said confidently, "I'm Yeni Kadri, the manager. We have adjoining rooms prepared for you on the seventh floor. I think it's best we head up there to discuss the preparations. It's a madhouse out front." She didn't wait for a response as she took us to the service elevator.

24

"You went home?"

"Yes, I can't stay there, though."

"You're welcome to stay here," Shade said, "as Frank or David."

"It's David and I would like to stay for now," I said honestly.

"I'm glad," Shade said and quickly went to deal with an issue on the serving line. I watched her skirt swirl with her hips as she moved and realized I was glad also.

It was at the tail end of cleanup when a well-dressed lady entered. She was wearing a tailored dark grey business suit with a silk blouse. She was carrying an expensive black briefcase case as if it was part of her. Her black hair was pulled back severely and secured tightly with a tiny black bow. She walked like she owned the place. I disliked her immediately.


"Shade Aiyeto?" the woman asked, holding her hand out to Shade. Shade nodded and shook her hand. "I'm Mojoyin Abudu Abudu, a lawyer at Adeye, Abudu and Co. I wonder if we could talk for a moment." Shade led her to one of the dining tables. I hovered, re-cleaning part of the floor in the dining room.


"I represent a party who is interested in resolving the predicament you find yourself in." Mojoyin held a half grin while she talked. I suspected it was always there, but I found it rude.


"What predicament would that be?" Shade asked, acting so innocent; I almost believed her.


"I am speaking of the charges that have been leveled against you and the City Kitchen. I assume you have seen the paper." Mojoyin didn't let Shade's act fool her. It seemed to be a game she liked to play.

"I don't concern myself with the idle chatter in the paper," Shade said, waving her hand in dismissal.
"My accountants assure me I have been more than forthright and all the issues will disappear in time." Mojoyin lost her grin. I don't think she was expecting Shade's strength. In truth, I didn't expect it either.
"Things could get worse," Mojoyin stated. Shade's face was turning red and I could see fire in her eyes.

"Who is this person you represent?" Shade asked, holding back her sting.

"The person wishes to remain anonymous," Mojoyin smiled.

"Then we are done here," Shade said calmly and rose. Mojoyin just smiled and stayed seated.

"I don't think you are considering the possible consequences," Mojoyin threatened. Shade exploded and shocked me.

"Bring it on" Shade said loudly and pointed to the door. Mojoyin tried to hold her own, but fumbled her briefcase standing up. I guessed she was used to more decorum when she threatened people. I had to stifle a laugh as I stopped the phoney cleaning to watch Mojoyin scamper out.
"Tell me I didn't just destroy my life," Shade said, moving toward me. She was shaking with the release of adrenaline. I folded her into my arms. She seemed a natural fit as she wrapped her arms around me.

"Bring it on?" I questioned softly.

"It's all I could think of. She was threatening me in my own place." Shade looked up to me. "Did I overdo it?"

"I was kind of proud of it. I just never heard you use a bad word before," I said with a smile. Shade tucked her head back into my shoulder.
"I hope I didn't make it worse," Shade whispered affectionately.

"It doesn't matter. We will get through this." I wanted to take back the 'we' as soon as I said it.

"You said 'we' again," Shade responded without moving from my arms.

"I meant it." I wasn't in control of that word any more. I might as well own it. Shade squeezed me harder. I was glad I did.

The next day we got a taste of the madhouse to come. Femi, true to his word, made the front page. An exclusive interview with the living Promise Keeper was big news. Without making any direct accusations, he detailed Shade's plight and the possible demise of the City Kitchen.

How I promised to save it and vanquish the bad guys was implied in every word he wrote. He promised articles to follow that detailed my
exploits since my singing debut. The time and place of the banquet was clearly written. He used poetic license to rename it the 'Save the Kitchen' banquet. It was over the top and the public bought it up wholesomely than I could imagine.


Calls started pouring in. The caterer was one of the first with an apology. They were willing to cater the event for free, as a donation to the cause. The banquet venue called and asked if we needed more room. They moved us to their largest hall at no additional cost. Best of all, Shade was Shade again. She was moving like a woman possessed. Everything was happening on schedule and everyone knew their job. With every phone call she received, her confidence spiked.

The Governor's office called and asked if it was okay for the first lady to attend the banquet. She would like to say a few words of support. It seems the police reps were going to be there, so the first lady felt obliged. I saw it as a win. The first lady certainly couldn't endorse the City Kitchen and then allow a developer to destroy it.


That afternoon, an auditor for Alege and Associates showed up. Tom Odogwu, a man I had worked with in the past. We had a quick reunion and I took him to the office. We spent the afternoon going over the initial data and supporting documents. Like me, he was impressed with Shade's books. Tom called Mofe just before we opened for dinner.


"David is correct, these are clean and easy," Tom said over the phone, "I'll need two guys and two days to go through it all, but I doubt I'll find anything." He nodded and said yes a few times then handed the phone to me.

"You stirred up a hornets nest, David," Mofe said pleasantly, "I got a call from a Mojoyin Abudu this morning. After the article, I guess she assumed you would come to me for help. She tried to convince me it would be in my best interest not to help."

"I met her yesterday. Shade told her, and I quote, 'Bring it on.'" I said it with a grin in my tone. Mofe burst out laughing.


"I like Shade already," Mofe responded, "I told Mojoyin much the same thing, just in a more civil-minded manner. I did find out that your developer is the one and only High Chief Kunle Sanda. You certainly don't pick small opponents, David."


“High Chief Kunle Sanda picked us," I said. At least I could now put a name to the gathering storm.

"Well Mojoyin pissed me off so I put in a call to Sarah Waziri. Her firm is willing to defend the class action, pro bono of course, if Shade will agree." I put my hand over the phone speaker and leaned out the office door.


"Mofe Alege found you a good lawyer, F.O.C," I called out to Shade, "you accept?" She laughed and nodded her head. I really didn't need to ask, but felt it was appropriate.


"Of course she accepts," I answered, "Mofe, you have gone way beyond the line of duty here. I'm not sure if I can ever pay you back."

"I'll get it back in spades," Mofe said lightly, "the firm that backed the Promise Keeper. It has to be worth more. Are you going to sing at the banquet? My wife is expecting it."

"I wasn't planning on it. I was hoping the talent show was the last time I had to sing," I said honestly. I didn't really like the fear associated with being on stage.

"Well that will give me a leg up," Mofe said, "right now it is two to one for you singing. No worries, Tom will bring a team out early tomorrow and get started. Tell Shade to let us worry about the FIRS. She just needs to get you to sing." Mofe hung up before I could respond. It didn't occur to me that people would want me to sing. Femi was planning on bringing a camera. There was no way I could sing for the world, much less another audience.

"Mofe said you should let him worry about the FIRS," I informed Shade, leaving out the singing part.

"I can do that," Shade said as she removed her latex gloves.
"Sarah Waziri is going to take care of the case," I added. I was full of good news. Shade threw the gloves in the trash bin, wrapped her hands around the back of my neck and kissed me on my lips. I wasn't sure how to respond. They were soft lips and slightly moist. She pulled back an inch and looked me in the eyes.

"My apologies to Dolapo, but you had that coming." Shade smiled and headed out of the kitchen. It was 4:00 and people needed to be fed. It was the chuckles from the crew that broke my trance. In my defense, they were really nice lips. I heard 'I Need An Angel' over the speakers and headed out to join Shade on the line.

Surprisingly, the first person in the line was a uniformed police officer.

"You must be Shade Aiyeto," the officer said, "and you must be David Akeju." He smiled and held out his hand. I shook it as he explained. "There are two officers outside making sure the press and fans stay out. I'm supposed to stay down here in case they mess up. Unless you want to be on camera, you'll probably want to stay inside. It is a madhouse out there. I'm officer Ocheme by the way."

"Thank you, officer," Shade said, "I hope this won't be necessary for too long."

"Just until the frenzy dies down," the officer said, "your car caused most of it." He looked and smiled at me when he said it. I guess everyone knows I'm here. I should have taken a cab.

The night went without incident. We fed officer Ocheme who also took some food to the policemen outside. No unauthorized homeless made it into the City Kitchen, but we were kind of in a prison of our own making. Shade decided to spend the night on site. I chivalrously gave up the camp bed. To her, it was a foregone conclusion -- it was her camp bed anyway. I made do on a dining table. It was a little hard, but the blanket made it tolerable.

.

To all my esteemed follower... I am deeply for not being able to update as promised. Please forgive me. It is just a situation beyond my control this evening.

Sorry for this short update...more updates will come before nightfall

to my e-brother, Olabantu, Happy Birthday ...this supposed to be yesterday...sorry for doing this late.

to my brother who mailed me about the strength you are finding to navigate the challenges of life and for deleting the suicidal thought, I say be strong...it is not a bad life but bad times.

to klare, for putting me on my toes to finish this story...I appreciate...thanks a million times

to all of you too numerous to mention at the moment, thanks for reading...I sincerely thank you.


...and the story continues

23

It was strange being back in my home. It was comforting and really strange at the same time. Everything reminded me of Dolapo, not as strongly as before, but just as depressing. It was hardest in the closet, where her clothes collided into mine. My section kept getting smaller over the years. Fond memories of joking with her about her wardrobe burnt through my thoughts. I couldn't live here anymore. Even if I would pack away everything of hers, the walls would still bleed her passing. It was just too much love to lose.

My trousers were too big in the waist and I had to punch two holes on my belt. I had lost a lot of weight since I jumped off that bridge. I looked in the mirror and couldn't tell whether it was a good loss or an unhealthy one. I wondered if my beard hid an emaciated visage or a strong jaw. I wouldn't shave it today, I would save that for the banquet. I packed some toiletries and filled a backpack with more clothes. I was done living like a beggar.

I put together a new set of keys from my spares and grabbed my jacket out of the closet. It was sitting next to Dolapo's parka sweater. Dolapo hated the cold, and loved how the parka would shield her against it. I always thought it was overkill. I grabbed it and brought it with me. No need to let it rot on a hanger. It was time to start letting the past go.

Tony drove me to my car. It stood, lonely, in the vast parking lot of the mall next to the venue I had sung in so long ago. It argued with me, trying not to start, but eventually kicked into a nice idle. I thanked Tony for all his help. He thanked me for promising to make an appearance at the annual police boxing match next month. I couldn't say no after all he had done. I wasn't sure what I could offer a bunch of police officers, but I agreed. I returned to the City Kitchen, this time with a car and a full wallet. I felt more normal, although I wasn't confident it was a good thing.

Dinner was in full swing when I arrived. I left my bags in the car, but brought in the parka. Shade did not look good. I could see the strain in her eyes, and knew it had been a difficult day. She was stoic at the head of the line, but I knew she just wanted to collapse and let it all go. I smiled at her as I entered and got a bit of a surprised look at my slight transformation.

"The caterer for the banquet canceled," Shade said quietly when I moved next to her. "There was an article in the paper and they didn't want to be part of it."

"I think they will reconsider tomorrow," I said confidently. I would have to move heaven and earth if they didn't, but I didn't want Shade to know that. She needed my confidence. I needed her confident.

"What did you do?" Shade asked, looking at me, confused.


"Everything I could," I responded, "where is Jummai?" Shade pointed to the end table in the back. Jummai was eating with Fabio. "I'll be right back." I walked over to the two of them.

"See if this fits you, Jummai," I said, holding up the parka. Jummai's eyes went wide as she stood up and removed her old jacket. I held the parka up like a gentleman and let her step into it. It fit her wonderfully.

"I never had anything this nice." Jummai said, as she ran her hands along the sweater.

"You do now." Dolapo would be pleased. She would have loved to know the sweater was keeping someone warm. "Payment for the boots," I added, nodding over to Fabio. He gave me one of his ugly toothy smiles.

"I owe you, Frank," Jummai said, "I owe you a lot." That was the language of the homeless when appreciating act of kindness.

"You owe me nothing and my real name is David." I was done hiding. "I had something I didn't need and you needed it. Simple as that." Jummai surprised me with a hug. It wasn't the first time I was hugged by that parka sweater. I fought the tears and hugged her back. At least Jummai would be warm this hammattan .

I walked back to Shade, clearing my eyes with the back of my hand. That was a little harder than I had expected.

"That was nice of you," Shade said as I approached.

"It was Dolapo's," I said nodding back at Jummai and the parka. I saw concern form on Shade's face.

"You went home?"

"Yes, I can't stay there, though."

"You are welcome here as Frank or David"

kindy51:

stories like this make me wish that i could write

any one can be a writer. It is one thing to have ability for creative writing it is another thing to have determination to pen down. Just start somehow...you will be amazed what you can do. I am a graduate of Economics and had only C5 in my WAEC then.

I must admit that my training in M&E has strengthened my writing cos i write reports almost every day in pages

Olabantu:
Tomorrow is my birthday, pls can I get an update

I can't promise that so that I wont have to struggle to keep the promise being The Promise Keeper I am...lol

Let me see how things will pan out...thanks for the request all the same

Happy weekend friends

22

"An auditor from my old firm will be here tomorrow," I said to Shade who was doing some cleaning. She stopped scrubbing and looked up.

"You told someone you were here?" Shade asked incredulously.
"It's war, honey, no holds barred." I felt some trepidation when I realized I had used a term of endearment. It just slipped out, as if I had been speaking with Dolapo. I moved quickly toward the door, hoping she wouldn't notice.

"Go get them, honey!" Shade yelled. I heard her laughing, which sounded good. Bako was giggling, which sounded bad.

I moved quickly now that my mind was made up. It took no time to get to the State CID. I walked in and straight to the desk that was manned by a uniformed police.

"I would like to see Detective Bakare, please."

"Name, please," the police asked, not looking up from the form he was filling out.

"David. He is expecting me." I answered. I really didn't want a scene at the front desk. The police picked up the phone and dialed an extension. The brief interruption seemed to bother the man. Whatever he was working on was more important than my visit.

"I got a David out here for you." The police looked up at me after a second, "David who?" I sighed. "Akeju," I whispered. The police became bewildered as shown on his face.
"Hello, Tony. You definitely want to meet this man." The police hung up the phone. "My wife thinks you are some kind of great romantic. I have you pegged as in idiot." His grin spread the room as he expressed his view.

"Both" I admitted. I would have to deal with the consequences of my choice. The police laughed and held out his hand. I shook it with a great deal of surprise. A short man sitting on the bench jumped up and headed to the desk.
"Whois this, Sergeant?" The man was wearing business casual with a long sleeve polo shirt.

"Mind your own business," the sergeant responded sharply. He looked back at me and used his eyes to direct me down the hall. I was grateful for the fence he put up. This was going to be hard enough to withstand.
I met Detective Bakare down the hall. He wore a brown suit with a dull yellow shirt and a golden-shaded amoeba tie. His hair was cut military style with zero sideburns sitting on a six foot frame. He looked like the type of guy you want standing next to you in a dark alley.

"You David?"

"Yes." I held out my hand and the detective shook it. I saw his expression change as he saw past my beard.

"David Akeju," he said, and shook my hand harder, "Tony Bakare." I added my smile to his and nodded. He led me to a small conference room and indicated I should take a seat.

"I understand you have my wallet," I said. It would sure save me a lot of time if I didn't need to replace the IDs and ATM cards. It would also be a convenient way to end the speculation of my death.

"Yes we do." Tony was still smiling. "My wife thinks you are some kind of super husband." His expression changed quickly when he realized what he said. "I am sorry about your wife."

"Thank you," I said in my practiced, ignore the painful memory, tone. "I don't really deserve the myth that seems to have developed."

"Well, obviously you're not dead," Tony said, returning to a subdued cheerfulness, "can you tell me where you were or do I have to read it in the paper?" It didn't sound like an official request. I don't think I was obliged to tell him anything. He just had one of those trusting faces and a pleasant attitude that was difficult to deny. I spilled the beans for the second time that day. I wasn't sure if he could help with the attacks on Shade and the City Kitchen, but I let him know that was why I finally decided to end the hiding.
"You haven't seen the paper?" Tony asked.
"No."

Tony pulled out the newspaper on his desk. He turned a few pages on the front section, folded it over and handed it to me. The title of the article was "City Kitchen Sued For Fraud." The speed at which these people were operating was phenomenal.
"Damn!" I said as I read. I especially liked the part where they claimed that Shade Aiyeto had no comment. "They are moving faster than I thought. This is going to kill the fund raising banquet."

"You could fill ten banquets if you just let people know you will be there," Tony claimed, "my wife would demand tickets. I could get half the force to show up." I smiled at the thought. Maybe my five minutes of fame would be worth one banquet.

"I don't have much time. These guys are a few steps ahead of me," I said. I could call the press, but I didn't know anyone I could trust. The story could spiral out of my control and become about me.

"I think I can help you with that." Tony picked up the phone and dialed. "Richard, is Femi out there? Okay, send him to my office." He hung up. "Femi is our resident freelance journalist. He follows us out to crime scenes and sells the stories to the paper. I think you two can use each other." He smiled conspiratorially. Femi walked in.

"David, this is Femi Adeshina. We affectionately call him Femo." I rose and shook the hand of the confused-looking man.

"What's this about, Tony?" Femi asked.

"A story for a story, Femi," Tony, said indicating an empty seat to Femi, "David needs some press and in exchange you get an exclusive." Realization washed across Femi's face.

"David Akeju?" Femi asked, looking at me. I nodded. He smiled from ear to ear. "Deal!"

For the third time that day, I explained what had happened. Femi was taking copious notes as I spoke, and asking questions to clarify what I said. Tony seemed proud of himself for putting us together. He excused himself to get my wallet.

"So you want me to let everyone know you will be at the banquet. That's it?" Femi asked.

"Yeah and I would prefer they don't know where to find me prior to the banquet," I responded.

"You'll talk to no other reporters?" Femi was bursting at the seams. Tony returned with a polythene bag containing my wallet and some kind of form.

"No one but you," I agreed, "at least until you get a chance to print the story." Femi smiled and rubbed his hands together.

"After all this time, why are you coming out now?" Femi asked. I thought I just explained it all to him.

"I just told you, to help Shade and the City Kitchen," I said, obviously frustrated.

"You don't owe them anything, why would you risk it?" Femi was pushing me. I had no idea why, but I was edging on angry.

"Look, I promised her I would help. So I'm helping." This time I made it sound final. Femi's pen went into hyper drive.

"You just can't make this stuff up," Femi said absently, "another promise." Tony laughed and I sighed. Femi was going to blow it out of proportion. The banquet needed it so I let it go. "Is it okay for me to bring a cameraman to the banquet?"

"I thought you were newspaper," I replied.

"Freelance. With this story I'll be a media superstar." Femi celebrated with his hands in the air.

"Okay, but keep it low-key. I don't want this to be theatrical." Femi laughed at my remark.

"Too late for that. I'll just try to make sure you don't look too clownish." Femi was cleaning up his notebook as he spoke. "I'll need another interview the day after the banquet. It shouldn't take more than thirty minutes or so." I nodded my head. "I have to get this out if I am going to make the paper tomorrow. I won't leak your location, but some will guess it. I would stay hidden if I were you." He shook my hand and scurried off.

"You've been 'Femoed,'" Tony said sarcastically. He pushed over a form for me to sign. It allowed me to get my wallet back. "You know it's going to be a madhouse, right?"

"If that's what it takes, so be it." I signed my name and retrieved my wallet. "I have to break into my condo, think I will get arrested?"

"Come on, I'll drive you." Tony laughed as he grabbed his jacket.

kindy51:
Nice write up op, keep it coming

Glad that you are enjoying the story

laikas:
Nice story, keep it coming.
one more update to night b4 u go to bed pllllllzzzzzz(oliver ask for more).

As requested

21

I woke to a pounding sound. I had fallen asleep, my head pillowed in my arms on the table. I wiped the drool from my lips and went to open the door. An elderly gentleman, one I had seen eat often, was there. I remembered his name as the dream fog cleared.

“Madam Shade said I should be here at 9:00," Bako said, rather surprised I wasn't Shade.

"Come in and let's get started." I opened the door wider and stepped aside. I was worried about Shade. It wasn't like her to let anything slide. I got Bako into the shower room and went to check on Shade.

I found her back at the desk, staring at the lawsuit. Her eyes were reddish. Thankfully, there weren't any tears. She must have run out of tears last night.

"Bako is here," I said as business-like as I could. Shade looked up to me with a forlorn look.

"Does it matter?"

"Yes," I responded. I had reasons to go on and knew they would fall on deaf ears. Short and simple was the only good response.

"They are destroying me." I saw defeat in Shade's eyes.

"The banquet will be next." I said it firmly. I didn't want to sugar coat it. Shade's eyes widened with fear.
"It will ruin the Kitchen," Shade said. I sat down on the camp bed as I watched her face go pale.

"I won't let that happen." There was determination in my voice, hopefully something Shade could latch onto.

"I don't think we can stop these people," Shade said, holding up the stack of papers. I gave her a confident smile. The smile held more confidence than I felt, but she needed more.

"No one will be left hungry, Shade. I need to speak to some old friends to see if we can turn this around." I pulled the donor book out again and turned to the page with Dolapo's name and pointed at it. "She thought this place was worth funding. I promise you, her donation won't go to waste." Shade's face firmed up.

"What do you want me to do?"

"Make sure you open at 4:00." I needed to handle this alone. "And don't lose heart. It's going to be a very long week. Let me take care of the rest." Shade stood up and nodded her head like a little child.

"I will make sure we stay open," Shade said, "whatever happens, thank you for trying." She moved past me quickly. Her determination had returned, but not her confidence. I felt a little sorry for Bako, he was bound to catch the brunt of her frustration. I sat down and made the first call.

"Alege and Associates, this is Funmi may I help you?" the receptionist greeted me. I knew Funmi, but I really didn't want to explain myself.

"Mofe Alege, please," I said, trying to jump past the hurdle.

"Mr. Alege is busy right now; would you like to leave a message?". I took a deep breath.

"Funmi, it's David Akeju. I really need to speak with Mofe," I said it quickly, hoping she would just let me through without an interrogation. No such luck.

"Mr David, oh my goodness, are you alright?" There was concern in her voice that exceeded the relationship we had had in the past. I guess notoriety does that to a person.

"I'm fine Funmi. It's really important that I speak with Mofe," The secret was out. People will definitely know The Promise Keeper is still breathing. I needed to move forward at a quick pace now.

"Alright, I will see if I can get him out of the meeting. Hold on a minute," Funmi said, and then added, "Dolapo was right, you sang wonderfully." I felt my throat knot a bit. I had forgotten she had known Dolapo too well. The two would talk during the company Christmas parties. I just sighed a 'thank you' and waited for Mofe.

"Where the hell are you, David?" Mofe asked when he came on the line, "The whole world is looking for you." I wanted to skip that part so I did.

"I have a problem Mofe. I know I don't deserve your help, the way I quit and all." I knew he would help anyways; I just wanted him to know I knew I was a jerk, "It's just that you're the only one I could think to call."

"Okay. What do you need?" Mofe had given me a pass. I had new respect for him.

"You know you help some people pro bono? Do you think you can extend the same favour to a friend of mine?"

"I'm listening," Mofe responded. I told him everything. I did leave out some of my personal failures, like the bridge incident, but told him the rest. I told him about the City Kitchen and how its mission is to feed the homeless. I told him about Shade and the FIRS. I gave him the best guess as what was happening and ended with the looming litigation process.

"Are her books really clean?" Mofe asked.

"Some of the best I have ever seen," I responded honestly. "Whoever is doing this, has strong connections. I promised Shade I would do what I could to end this." Mofe laughed.

"I would never stand between a promise and its keeper," Mofe joked, "how many FIRS agents came the first time?"

"Three."

" I need to see the books beforehand." Mofe was all in. "Let me know when the banquet is and I'll make sure it's company policy."

"Thank you, Mofe. You have no idea what this means to me," I said, trying to remain manly and not get all choked up. "I will surely get you whatever you need. I know we are on the right side of this one." We ended the call with a lot of testosterone lingering across the line. Mofe liked the idea of fighting the FIRS, especially if he expects to win. To him, this was the accounting equivalent to a showdown at high noon.

Thanks for reading...let me have your opinion on the story...thanks