Hello guys.....💃🏽💃🏽💃🏽

Sorry its coming late... I underestimated the length of the chapter. I thought it was going to be short.

It ended up being long😂🤣🤣

Wattpad has been giving me issues too. Finally i can now start cooking breakfast (12:53 on)🤦🏼

Enjoy guys

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Chapter 25

Unedited



Bella👆🏼

"Cameras, Live music, Lighting and action" Bella whispered into the ears of Tito Bank, a renowned PR in the industry. A slick, proud smile smile crept his cheek as he turned towards her, and she continued "Four components that makes an outright event"

"You're here early"

"I didn't want to miss a scene, you know how I love to be detailed when giving my reviews"

The guy laughed, not with his full chest cause he knew what a bitch she can be. "I didn't invite you to make reviews, I wanted you to enjoy yourself, buy some art" "Well... I guess i'll have of little of everything tonight then"

His eyes scanned the dress she wore, an emerald gown hung dangerously low revealing her cleavages. Her hombre brown hair cascading down her caramel skin. "I must say you look pretty"

"I always look beautiful Tito, never to be caught unfresh" She paused looking at the whole gallery then she glanced back at him, "You don't look bad either" She added slowly and he smiled. "Will you be free later on?" "Is there a parte after the parte?" "When has there ever not being?"

"Does your fiance know?" She snapped and he chuckled, "Of course she does" "Will she be around?" "No" "I came here to have fun and enjoy myself"

"Knock yourself out"

"One picture for the public eye?" She asked pulling out her phone from her purse.

"Sure"

After a quick picture, Bella moved on to speak to Sam. "Good evening, I'm Isabella, CEO Belar Africa. You must be Sam Thompson" "Yes Ma'am" "Let's not be formal, call me Bella, can I call you Sam?" "Sure but I'm kind of busy"

"Too busy to spare me ten minutes of your time?" She requested and he stammered unsure of what answer to give. He didn't want to disappoint the pretty lady, meanwhile he had other things to attend to before Sewuese shows up.

"I'm an event blogger and I was wondering if you can answer a few question for my blog. It's good for publicity"

"Punch news is officially handling what goes out to the news"

"I'm sure they'll be more reporters from other place. This art exhibition is not exactly what we call 'strictly by invite'" "Because I wasn't sure about the family and friends my team will be inviting over. I didn't want to offend anyone" "Who cares? There's nothing like too much publicity, I read the news and I've done my research on you and I find your passion for scouting rare artistic talents astounding. You're an example to nations and I believe if people emulate your zeal to help young artist, other artist will get the opportunity to have their works put out there, people can start having view of art as a lucrative business"

This was a kiss-ass move, she wasn't sure it'll work but it was worth the shot.

"Are you trying to kiss my ass right now?"

"Did it work?" She asked pursing her tongue out and he smiled lifting his right palm at her face.

"Five minutes, just five minutes"

Kufre watched her father walk into the sitting room with a black polythene nylon in his hands. "Welcome Papa" "Thank you" He replied taking his seat, "You no dey school?"

"I came back to do something but I didn't work out"

"To do what?"

"Papa no just bother ask before I go vex again"

"Kufre!" He called out and she rolled her eyes, "Is it it Bernard's place i went to. I wanted him to borrow me money because of the portal that will be closing. This guy has money oh but he had mind to tell me to spread my legs first"

"Did he touch you?"

"Yes but not in the way you're thinking of, I left before he can do shit. I would have broken his head" "How much is remaining?" "20 but..." She trailed off watching her father bring out some money from his pocket.

"This one no reach, na just ten k"

"You go bank?" She asked and it made him laugh, "If I rob bank na only ten thousand I for steal?" "I just say make I ask. Where did you get it, you said you were broke this money"

"I go work"

"Don't tell me you carried blocks"

"No. I drove some goods to and fro from here to Ibadan. They paid me ten k" "That's cheating now" "I was doing it for a sick friend, I'm so tired." He confessed dropping the money on the table.

"I'll find a way to sort the other one tomorrow"

"You don't have to"

"Why? So you'll go and meet another man and"

"No! Because God sent angels to visit us today," "I don't understand" "Let me explain to you, one young woman and her husband came to the house, they said they know you"

"They know me"

"Any names?"

"The man said his name is Aliu but when he made the transfer, what I saw was Garba something... Maybe a different name... I don't know" "How does he look like?"

"Fine... Her handsome man, beautiful couples. They made me feel better, he has beard, this full Aboki beard, he speaks hausa" "I no think say I know them"

"Ah Han... Old age don dey enter Oh. The woman has this slim body, she's respectful, she speaks in a polite manner, with so much wisdom, she speaks hausa too"

"I dont know anyone like that"

"I don't understand... Did I meet real angels cause they gave my 20 k oh. She told me you gave her your address"

"The only people I give address are the loan people and the grant." He trailed off, "They knew about Mom's death and all"

"The only people I mentioned it to was Aisha Bakare's Foundation, Revive. You said the woman is slim right? She no too fair, but she fair. Like your complexion" "Yes Papa"

"E be like say na the foundation come visit" "Oh." "Yes" "So they had to investigate first before giving you money. Na wa oh,"

"It's the proper thing to do"

"Yes but.... This money thing is just getting on my nerves. No worry, by the time we'll start making this money ehn! Everything will just go well, everything go well. Does that mean you'll get the grant?"

Mr OKon shrugged, "I dont know. Mrs Bakare the owner, promised to help your sister find a good PPA in Abuja that will pay her well, even enough for her to save towards law school"

"Jesus! That's amazing"

"Your sister say nobody don call her yet. If its just that one, I'll be so happy and grateful." "Me too. " When will you be going back?"

"Tomorrow morning oh. I have this 9 o clock test and I haven't read. I didn't bring my book, I didn't even know I'll be stay for the night" "What will you use the money for?" He asked and she picked up the money.

"I'll give Ephraim, use some to print out materials and..." She trailed off stretching three thousand at him, "Use that to hold body" "No need for that, you guys need it more"

"You better take it. Youre lucky I'm nice enough to share my money with you" She teased and he laughed picking one thousand from it, "Send it the remaining to your sister. Let us all eat from this national cake. Make sure you send with the charges she'll use"

"Yes i will" She replied blinking her tears in then she shuffled up to him embracing him, "Thank you. Thank you so much." "E go better, you hear?" He assured and she sniffled looking up at him.

"I know"

6:30 pm

Kilahi and Sewuese made entrance into the gallery. They both couldn't help but admire the setting, it was Africanish and western at the same time. The whole African Frenzy created the perfect setting with stunning decor, hence enhancing and adding to the atmosphere.

At the extreme was a mini orchestra playing soft music. It atmosphere beginning to feel like the movies, one if those classic cocktail parties.

All the while, her eyes scattered aimlessly in search of Gbadamosi while Sewuese smiled on seeing Sam speaking to a man. They both exchanged flirty looks, she wanted to meet and compliment on how hot he looked on that black suit.

Kilahi trailed Sewuese's gaze, she knew 80% of her had already left her already, if not 95. "If you dare leave me, I'll take you off my family tree" She threatened but Sewuese laughed instead.

Kilahi didn't want to end up being alone with no one to talk to! Not like she has much data to start streaming Instagram out of boredom. "Do you want me to get something to drink?" "As long as it's not alcoholic, I'm fine but no. It's selfishness that I'm reading off you now. You want to go and meet Sam"

"You have trust issues oh. I'm not going anywhere"

"We are stuck until Gbadamosi comes" She quickly took out her phone from her bag putting a call across to him, "Hey lovey dovey beautiful Kilahi" His voice resounded with so much excitement like a kid who had too much sugar. "What did you eat to have you so excited?"

"Just the thought of seeing you is enough excitement"

"Where are you?" "I was stuck in traffic but I'm close" "Close where?" She asked and he walked into the gallery sighting her. "Like really close" "Pastor that's lying, are you in the mainland?"

"Why will I be there?"

"Maybe you're running Pastoral errands I don't know. I get it but I just don't want to be alone and Sewuese is already eyeing Sam. She can't wait to l leave me oh, but if she does, I'll dis-sister her!"

Gbadamosi laughed.

"Where are you?"

"Have small patience. I'm close by"

"How close"

"Like behind you close."

Kilahi laughed and rolled her eyes, "Are you whine-ing me? How close jhoor?" "I'm staring at the most beautiful girl in the room clad in a black gown, why don't you turn you head?" He replied and she gasped turning towards him. Her lips were parted as he looked at her. She seemed dazed.

At this point, she was smiling from ears to ears! Her cheeks heated as a result of her over blushing.

"I didn't know you were that close" She replied ending the call then she watched him approach her in the red and white shirt he wore. He saw a man walk up him, "Pastor Gbadamosi" He called out and he forced a smile.

"Good evening Sir"

They both engaged in a conversation but Gbadamosi couldn't help but steal glances at her.

Bella who was taking picture from the upper floor stopped on seeing Gbadamosi walk in. She heart stopped for a moment then it started beating without rhythm.

She hasn't seen this man in years, except from pictures but damn! How did this man become so hot all of the sudden? He has always being hot but damn does he look hotter!

"Snap out of it Bella, snap out. You hate him remember?" She reminded herself.

Why was she suddenly feeling hot? Isn't she the one that has been tell in Deja to forget about the Oloriburuku? Why does she get this way every time she seems him them?

"Oh crap Bella, you still want to fuck this man"

After a fifteen minutes conversation that seemed like forever, Gbadamosi finally moved close to Kilahi with a babyish smile at her and then looked down at her, "Hey there beautiful"

"Good evening Sir." Sewuese greeted with a clap of hand, "Now you're here, I guess I'm free to leave her now" "Who needed you before?" Kilahi bragged and Gbadamosi laughed, "Wow.. She's now doing shakara now after she threatened to dissister you"

"No oh, leave her to shine now, next time I won't be so nice"

"Good evening Sewuese. Thank you for holding the forte for me"

"It's nothing Sir" She replied leaving the two love birds. Gbadamosi pouts at her and she chuckles, "I'm sensing drama, you're cooking up drama in that your head right now" "You didn't even come to save me from that man"

Kilahi laughed, "What was I supposed to do? Meet the man and say, please I'll like to have my boyfriend now. You're such a drama King. I love your shirt" "Thank you, I love your dress too. Besides, you smell different today"

Kilahi bowed her head feeling shy, "You noticed?" "You're my girlfriend, I'm supposed to notice these things. You've never smelled this way" "What do I usually smell like?" "I can't put it into words, this one is different"

"Different good or different bad? Cause the history of the scent is complicated"

Gbadamosi shrugged, "I don't care. You look beautiful" "Tell me something I don't know" "You probably can't live without me" "Whaaat?" "You said so on the phone call.. You said you couldn't breath without me"

She gasped looking around then she slapped his chest playfully, "I didn't say that" "I thought I heard you say, Gbadamosi come really fast, I can't live without you. This whole room is empty without you" He said with a suffocating and teasing tone, "I didn't say that"

"Well, it sounds like something I'll say cause even if this room is full of crowd, it will be empty if you're not here."

"Gosh these your lines" Her heart raced, "I'm serious. In this room right now, I want to be your only spectator and you beautiful, my only spectator"

Kilahi bit her lower lips gushing uncontrollably, "Stop it" "Stop what?" "I'm this close to having a heart attack from all these calories filled compliments" She replied and he laughed throwing his head backwards.

"Wait... Is it my compliment you just compared to calories. My hard earned compliment, you've not given me mine" "Well you haven't exactly given me the floor to do it!" "Now you have the floor my love, in fact I'm giving you the whole building. Blow me away" He replied and she busted into laughter.

"Wait..."

"What? Blow me away"

"Wait now... I'm booting, abi you don't know when somebody's child is booting ni?"

"Speak now..."

"Or what?"

"Forever hold your peace" He replied and they laughed, "How many times have you used that for a wedding" "Over the past couple of years, I think 8" "And you're not married"

"Oooh... " He chuckled grabbing her hand, "That's wicked, I feel insulted take it back"

"Eight wedding and you're married"

"You didnt come my way early now, I was patiently waiting for you. It's your fault, I hope you know that" He teased and she laughed moving backwards, "Oh yeah" "You know what they say about the patient dog right?"

"It eats the fattest bone but too bad this bone isn't fat"

"But it's the perfect bone for this guy... No pun intended, I mean that in every nice way"

She bit her lips again, "I know" "I've been the only one spilling lines. I'm angry, it's not fair. You must say your own or.." He pouts, "Or what You'll tickle me again?"

"If I have to"

"You this man of God, so you'll touch my hm hm hm,"

"You do realize that the armpit is the principal part for tickling, it's only God that knows the him hn him you're talking about. Besides i'm a man on strict assignment to God, and the other assignment to sweep you off your feet."

"How do you think you're doing?"

"Babe, you're not even standing on your feet right now, you're floating, floating on the love I used in sweeping"

"The Baba your consult has definitely given you something to put on your lips"

"What can I say, I serve a living God" He replied and they both chuckled.

Kilahi inhaled deeply, "What was your assignment tonight? To suffocate me with sweet words and good looks, cause right now I can't breathe" She replied looking up at him and he blushed, "That makes the two of us, you have completely taken my breathe away"

"Oh wow, you're missing a rib and oxygen at the same time. Strong man" She said punching him softly on the arm.

Gbadamosi laughed, "That's what love can do to any man. Thank God I came prepared. How will I have match up to this beauri ehn? Hei God" "Stop nau!" She laughed feeling slightly uncomfortable and shy.

"Sometimes I wonder how you were when you were in the world. The heart you'll be stealing with your sweet words" "Let's not even go there. You know..." He paused in thought then with a clicked of his tongue he said, "I never thought I still had this in me. I'm just glad that I found my other half who can actually bring out the crazy, romantic and playful side of me"

Kilahi felt tears building up, "I love you" "Second time today. Well I love you too" "How was your day?" She asked tucking the hair behind her ears and a lady walked up to the both of them.

Glancing at her, Kilahi studied the woman before her. She was averaged height, fair in complexion, brown hair, brown eyes, a small pointed nose with a slender hourglass figure. She looked almost American but from her complexion, one can tell she's a mixed breed.

A coquettish smile crossed her freckled face, "OMG Gbadamosi George in the flesh" She said with a foreign accent, she got the Gbadamosi right too.

Definitely Nigerian American!

Gbadamosi gaped at the sight of his one of his ex girlfriend, "Hey Sanders" "Really Gbada? How many years down the line and you're still using that name" She didn't lose the flirty smile and look.

The woman was looking at him like food. Waris going on hia?

Julie couldn't help but smile, Gbadamosi looked way better than he did years ago! Look at those beard, makes you want to playfully caress it. The moment she heard Gbadamosi was coming for the Art Exhibition, she suspended all to be there.

Since he was very much single and she is also very much single. She assumed meeting him here could spark up old flames.

She motioned to kiss him on the cheek but he pulled away, "This isn't America" "So?" "I'm a Pastor" "So? Nigeria is so boring. I can't believe this is you. When Sam invited me for this, I knew I had to see you"

He cleared his throat pointing to Kilahi, "Um.. Sanders, meet the woman who has captured my heart, Kilahi. Kilahi meet Julie Sanders"

Julie Sanders your what? Complete it now. She gave him a look but he laughed instead as though reading her mind.

"Oh." Julie paused swallowing a big lump now facing Kilahi, "I'm sorry, I didnt know" "It's fine." "Nice to meet you again Gbada. Let me enjoy my night, odabo" She replied, "Your mom must be so proud of you" Gbadamosi snapped sarcastically and she laughed.

"I'm better than most so yes, she's proud" She laughed nervously now glancing at Kilahi.

"You two have a lovely night"

"You too" Kilahi replied watching her leave. She cleared her throat, returning her gaze to him. Her looks stamped with suspicion. "You must be wondering who she is" "Why won't i wonder when you stopped at Julie Sanders without a title. Is she an ex?"

"Yes. I'm sorry"

"Why are you apologizing? Even Pastors have exes. I mean you told me about your past so I'm sure you must have a lot of them"

"I never knew she'll be here. Sam didn't mention It"

"Hey!" She called out dusting nothing off his chest, "Listen to me, don't overthink it. It's fine, it's just one blast from the past. What's the worst that can happen?"

Kitty Kat entered clad in a short gown, she admired her curvy ass as she walked through the doors. Eyes raised as a result of the revealing dress she wore for the exhibition. She loved it! Anything for the attention, she craves for it!

The murmurs from people cause Gbadamosi to turn his head towards her direction, he rolled his eyes at the sight of her, Kilahi widened her eye in surprise, "Wow" She muttered then gazed at him. "Sorry.. I just judged her right? It's not in my place to judge, she might be decent at heart but.... Does she really have to go all out?"

"Sounds like you want to preach to her, I brought my tracts, it's in my pocket incase you want one"

Kilahi gasped and laughed, "You walk around with one?" "Like MtN, everywhere I go. There's always someone who needs it, ladies ten to hit on me when I'm outside, trying to test their luck to see if I'll fall. There's no place too formal to preach the gospel and when I do, I give them souvenirs" He replied and she laughed out loud.

"This man" She sucked her lips and covered her palm over it. "Okay... I was about to ask about your day before Julie came. So... How are the babies like?" She asked and he smiled widely.

Sam held Sewuese's hands over to meet the students who were having a discussion together. "Micheal Akpara University, I hope my pronunciation isn't too wacked? The thought that I might get the pronunciation of these names wrong is making me nervous. I don't want to butcher the name, at the same time, I don't have a Nigerian accent"

"Baby" She paused running her hands across his face, "You're going to do fine, you called Sewuese without stress, I'm sure you'll do greatly with the rest" She assured, "I believe in you. Besides it's Okpara, not Akara"

Sam laughed, "Wow... I feel confident already" He replied sarcastically then she busted into laughter, "You'll be fine" "Butchering people's name. I've been rehearsing my speech" "I believe in you"

"Really?"

"Yeah."

"Can I kiss you?"

"Jesus Christ Sam... We're in public"

"I don't care... God your lips looks tasty"

"God's lips looks tasty?" She asked and he wrapped his arms across her waist, "You know exactly what I mean, your lips, not God's lips" He said with deep voice and she playfully pointed her fingers at him then she moved backwards, "Get thee away from me"

A chuckle escaped out of his lips, "You look gorgeous, I've run out of words to describe your beauty. We might have to start inventing words cause words like beautiful doesn't do much justice any longer"

"Thanks.. You look handsome yourself"

"Thank you"

Sewuese looked across the room, "I love what they did with the place" "Thanks. I wanted a fusion of the African culture along line the western culture and Tito was able to pull the whole thing off. I have him to thank for that, it's a beautiful work of art, just like you"

Sewuese smiled, "Thank you." She replied and he grabbed her hands approaching the students. "Hello guys" he paused calling their attention and they all faced him. "Hello Sir" They all responded with smiled at the both of them.

"There is someone I'll like you all to meet," He smiled and She instantly became shy, "Oh my God!" She gasped walking away but he pulled her back, he laces his fingers into hers. "This isn't fair, you didn't say anything about.." She paused, raising her gaze to include the rest of the artiste and took a deep breath."

"These are the brilliant minds I've been working with for the past weeks. The brilliant mind that brought me here, the brilliant minds to which I owe a lot to especially meeting you. Guys meet Sewuese Adzer"

"Awn your African queen. My name sake, the one that shattered your heart to pieces the first time you met bah?" Sewuese Terkimbi, the artiste frok Benue asked and Suwese gasped, she didn't expect to be known.

"Awn.. It's really nice to meet your acquaintance Ma" She continued embracing her.

"Which one is acquaintance again? It's like this cocktail music is affecting your mind that you think we're in one American movie like that" Friday snapped and everyone laughed.

"I didn't even complete my introduction before Sewuese no 2 interrupted me. So guys, the woman right in front of you is my future life partner, so take note. I know she's pretty so if you've been conceiving ideas ever since she walked in now will be a good time to delete it" He warned as playfully as possible, even though he meant it and they all laughed.

A member of the media team walked up to him whispering into his ears. "Thank you" He muttered giving Sewuese a familiar look, "I have to go, these will keep your company. They talk a lot too so if you need an escape, call me "

"No problem"



Salome👆🏼



MAdam Tatiana👆🏼

Salome walked around the gallery hall with Madam Tatiana who had a chiffon stoned short dress on and she had one of those Chinese like hand fan in her hand. In her other hand, she held an almost empty champagne glass.

"You dey blow fan for inside AC" "The one way dey do me pass wetin AC fit blow" She replied and Salome hissed.

"Well... I love what they've did with the place, we should have brought the children"

"Why? So that everyone will know you have grandchildren. You won't be be the first, neither will you be the last" "But... Temitope George still doesn't have so it's a plus for me" She answered and they both laughed.

"Do you think she'll be coming?"

"Of course she will. They say she's almost like a mother to this Sam guy, she'll come. At least we would have come, even if its just with Ashley only so I'll flaunt her like a trophy."

Madam Tatiana looked over at Gbadamosi then she rolled her eyes, Salome trailed her gaze to him. "Look at the man you have wasted your life on" "Is it just me or he's getting fine ...I mean fair everyday"

"Fine or fair"

"I said fair"

"Be deceiving yourself, wait oh. Don't tell me you're still harbouring feelings this guy" "Mommy, I'm married with kids" "Look at your mouth like you're married with kids and you're looking at him that way"

"Argh!" Madam Tatiana groaned quietly while maintaining a poise look and faking smiles at everyone.

Then she spoke through gritted teeth, "I only got out of the house so I can get some space to clear my head, get some interior art for my clients, forget about the fact that, that stupid woman left the company."

"What's wrong with your teeth? Who gave you Ice block to eat?"

Madam Tatiana tightened her grip on the glass, "Gosh! Don't add to my headache, I have a whole bundle to offload, don't let me offload it on you. The only reason I agreed for you to be a plus one was because you said you wanted to see Mummy Gbadamosi so you can mock her, so don't make me the laughing stock. I've been through a lot already" She sighted one of the a wait staff circulating the dining room with a tray full of champagne flutes.

"It's like this your employee is really annoying you oh." "The worst thing is that when my clients call, they make request for her specifically. I've been stalling and giving excuses."

"Call her back"

"God forbid. I need to find a permanent excuse that will last and leave a bad impression on her so they'll stop bothering me"

"Exactly." Salome answered now look at Gbadamosi who was laughing with Kilahi, "Who do you think that woman is?" "How am I suppose to know? How am I supposed to know what the monk does?"

"He won't be a monk for too long, that was why I invited Monica"

Madam Tatiana arched her brow, "You what?" "Invited Monica now..." "And you think it's Monica that will be best for this one?" "I need to plant someone I know in that family. I want to know everything that's happening"

"Don't you know eberyrh already"

"It's not enough jare.. All these half half news, I want to plant someone that has possibility of growing in Gbadamosi's heart" "Gbadamosi has not looked at any woman in what? Hundred year, its Monica that I'll now steal his heart. Mom I think you're delusional"

"Delusional kwa? Me your mother"

"Mommy, please avoid me. I'm looking for potential client" "You can as well decorate the George's sitting room, horrible looking place. I told her that I'll recommend someone for her. Pictures everywhere as if it's tribute ground"

Madam Tatiana laughed stealing glances at Gbadamosi who was laughing endlessly. "The girl can't be that funny" "Do you think it's his.." "No. Certainly not! It's not his type, Gbadamosi is more on the curvy side. He loves his woman with curves not straight lines"

Salome laughed slapping her arm playfully, "This your mouth ehn!" She paused sipping her drink. When the waitstaff walked close Madam Tatiana swiped a fresh glass from him.

Deja heard the sound of a car horning so she ran towards the window where she saw Bimbo getting out of Lanre's car. She's so sure that several others are also doing the same she's doing now.

Thank God, the house does not have a gate. She can't count the things she has witnessed that evening!

She returned back to where she was seated, picked up the ice cream plate then folded her leg on the chair. Bimbo knocked and walked in, "You didn't lock.." She trailed off on seeing her seated.

"I thinking pe you were not in the sitting room" She replied taking off her shoes then she picked up stretching her toe nails, "Ta lo ran mi nise ki n wo heels? (Who asked me to put on heel?)" She muttered.

"I am in the sitting room but I don't think it's because of that. Your lips are used to complaining about something I did wrong so you automatically assume I'm a screw up"

"I don't assume you're a screw up, you're a screw up baby" Bimbo snapped and Deja hissed. "I'm not a screw up in Jesus name"

"Amen... I'm also praying for God to answer that prayer point." "Lanre dropped you off, what's up?" "Yes. He stopped by at work and then took me out to have dinner with him"

"Are you two having sex"

"No! What's the rush of doing something I'll end up doing for the rest of my life after I get married? Lanre and I have gained experience before so We're just waiting to get the job and sit in that office so we can start making use of the experience we've gained. Why did you ask?"

"Nothing. I'm looking for something that will make me feel less crappy"

"If I was having sex, it will make you feel less crappy"

"When you put It that way, you make it sound like like I'm selfish"

"You are selfish. Have you called your Mom?" "No... Nope I haven't, I want to but"

"But what? You've not had sense yet"

"Something like that"

Bimbo laughed, "Yet you're here, sitting over domino pizzas and stone cold ice cream. Living the soft life" "It's cold stone" "If I stone your head ehn!" "I need to cool myself" "Pele hot-headed woman. You think the cold will cool you off? Even if they stuff you in deep freezer, walai, nothing will be able to cool you off. Only you, your head is not straight, only you needs cooling. When God was sharing sense, did you go on vacation?"

Deja chuckled, "Maybe I left out of disappointment when I realized he was sending me to Nigeria. That makes me another Nigerian without sense" She replied and Bimbo sat close to her.

"I don't understand, I'm always the one doing the yabbing, who gave you microphone to back up for me?"

Deja hissed watching her pick a slice of pizza, "This one youre buying pizza, I hope you remember that house rent is at the corner" "Urgh! Don't remind me"

Bimbo laughed in mockery while chewing the pizza, "They don't always put enough pepper in this thing. On a serious note Deja, start saving" "How? I'll just call Mom and Dad, apologize and ask for money" "Should I remind you that your parents are not exactly the richest people in Lagos"

"They have money and I'm their only daughter, who else should they spend the money on if not me?"

"Your mom sounded pretty angry and you haven't even apologize to her" "I'm angry okay? I'm just angry and she's just the last person I want I to have a conversation with before I say something I'll regret"

"She's your mother, accord her that respect" "She was blowing things out of proportion, what was I supposed to do?" "Keep quiet. You're lucky it's not my Mom, she would have used wood burning with fire to imprint tribal mark on your body. Walahi, you won't have the mouth to speak next time"

She scraped the bottom of the dessert dish on the plate, obviously determined to get the very last bite."I'm not going through my best time okay? I just want to be alone" "At least you're admitting to the fact you don't have sense"

"Will somebody have sense and still have sex with a stranger?" She asked, "Remember that time.." "That was in the past... I made a vow and I just broke my chastity for what I don't know"

"At least you don't remember it"

"Urgh! the part memories are piercing through my sanity." She snapped busting into tears, "I'm just tired of life" "Don't go and commit suicide oh"

"I'm not suicidal... I'm just hurt, everyone is hurting me, my mother, Pastor Gbadamosi is the worst"

Bimbo scoffed, "Leave my Papa out of it, this was all on you. You didn't take any of my advise. Now you have a chance to, there's Vincent but even if its not Vincent, you need to start opening your eyes to other people"

Deja exhaled in frustration, "I saw Vincent today" "Okay... he was acting like a stranger." "How?" "He wasn't paying attention to me like he normally would. If I didn't know better, I'll say he was trying to avoid me"

"You might be wrong. I don't trust your judgment"

"Why?"

"Because you don't have sense" She replied and Deja threw the spoon at her face, "Shine you shine... It's your time. Guess what I saw outside the house before you arrived"

"What?"

"Drama. There's ice cream in the freezer, grab one and come and listen"

Bimbo rose up, "Don't bribe me with ice cream, you'll still pay rent. That's the one I know" She hissed, "Don't take the ice cream again... Leave it for me, I'll use it to console when I'm thinking or how I'll save money for rent"

Bimbo hissed walking into the kitchen "In my village we don't always refuse gifts" "If you eat it, you'll purge!" "Purging once in a while is good for the body!"

Salome shuffled towards Gbadamosi, "Ah ah ah ah... So you're here" She said feigning as though she hasn't been talking about him all this while.
Good evening Pastor" She greeted with a smile while swinging her champagne glass, "Good evening Ma," He replied bowing his head and Kilahi joined him but she ignored her instead. She didn't come to speak to insignificant people. "I haven't seen your parents around, are they coming?" "I ... I don't know" He stammered through, "Oh. So I guess you haven't spoken to them today then" Salome cut her gaze to Gbadamosi who noted her amusement.

Oh boy! It was looking like a trap! He wondered what the woman had come up with this time. She has always been a busybody and gossip.

"I spoke to Dad. They should be here by now, they won't miss this exhibition for anything in the world" He replied taking a quick glance at Kilahi, he didn't want her feeling left out.

"Ma'am.."

"You must be surprised I'm here," She Interrupted, placing one of her hands on her hips, "I came with my first daughter, the one you didn't get married to, the one you're older than that got married years ago before you. You must still remember my girl, Tatiana right?"

"Yes Ma"

"I'm sure you do. Remember she used to crush on you when you were away, she'll be dreaming and praying for you to come back so she can get married to you. Even after you went for your youth service in Anambra, she came visiting you didn't she? But you didn't answer her. She was supposed to be in Enugu but you couldn't even respect the fact she derailed to visit you. It's not as if I'm angry oh, I can't be angry at a man of God but the only shocking thing is that, how long have you been since you got back? Twelve years or is it eleven years? And you're still single. Thank God she decided to move on, or else, I wouldn't have been..." She laughed as though it was funny.

"I wouldn't have been a grandmother. Eweh, see ehn... But Pastor, what are you still waiting for now? I respect the grace on your head, truthfully, I do but bia (come), what is it really that you are waiting for? I'll understand if you want to be like Paul oh. Or do you wish to embark on that journey? Let us know so I'll know how to channel my prayers when I'm interceding."

Gbadamosi laughed, "It's like you're forgetting I'm a Pastor Ma" "Even Pastors need prayers. You're 37 right? " "I'm not planning on staying unmarried," "Then why did you chase Brenda away now? I heard she left she traveled and from the diagnosis i received was that it was as a result of the heart break she received from you. Lack of attention and all, you know how fragile women can be. That girl is fine, I don't know what you wwant, maybe your standards are high, I don't understand. Or maybe you're seeking a real Nigerian that can cook you good food, I know that Brenda cannot boil water to save her life but I know someone that can do the magic"

This time he laughed nervously, all he wanted was to end the conversation.

"I can see Monica too, remember that Tatiana was her school mother then. I learned you were chasing her that year"

He shut his eyes but she laughed in response to his response. She felt it was shame. but it wasn't shame really, it was just the disappointed to seeing a mature woman make a fool of herself in the name of 'marriage shaming' him, perhaps to get back at him for keeping Tatiana waiting.

Not like he was aware the girl was waiting for him! He never made any promise to her.

He has never been the kind to make promises to any woman! Sure, there were some who waited for him but were disappointed because by the fact he fully gave his life to Christ and was hell bent on living a consecrated life.

He definitely made it clear to them about his plans to follow the righteous path!

Either that or Salome was just looking forward to digging information about his life, something to use as a point to gain victory the next time she gets into another argument with his mother.

Mr and Mrs George who stepped in a while ago scanned the room, they were impressed with the turn out, "Oh my God, I love what they did to this place" She complimented with a smile, "The whole live sound, feels like I just walked into a cocktail party and at the same time the place has a blend of Nigerian to it. It's so nice"

"Thank God you're smiling"

"I love good things" She turned to an array of food by corner, "Oh my God, those prawn cocktail are looking do divine and mouth watering. There's unity of design, it all comes together" "What's missing is Ewedu and a proper swallow to make it more Nigerian"

Mrs George laughed, "Ewedu ke? With shrimp cocktail? Now you're being funny. Where in the world is Sam" Her eyes searched for him among the array of people gathered.

"I need to give him a big hug. I'm proud of what he's doing" "Then we'll meet Gbadamosi and his fiance" "Oh please, he hasn't even proposed yet and if God will answer my prayers, it won't happen" Her gaze suddenly fell on Salome who was neck deep into that conversation with her son. Her smile vanished, wiped away by a look of astonishment, disbelief and anger.

"Oh that witch!"

Her husband held her by the arm, "Hey dear, let's not do anything rash" "I wonder what she's telling him now" She muttered with tightened fist.

"Why don't we find out but first, take a long deep breath"

Salome continued, "There's no point of being shame Pastor, I was the one that invited Monica oh. She's single too and you're single too. She's a chorister in church currently and she sings so well. When she sings, heaven opens up. Even though she has her past, who cares, you also had yours. After all, old things have passed away, all things have become new. I was thinking, why not do her some good, after all, you're still very much single and searching"

Gbadamosi smiled, "I'm not single" "Pastor... There's no point denying it, there's no information that you're dating I'm always up to date about these things. Monica is a good alternative" "I'm sure your sources are not as up to date as you think they are." He paused staring at Kilahi who had been quietly observing the woman all these while.

"You haven't met Kilahi Agbo"

Salome raised her brow at her, "Who is she?" "The woman that made me stop searching, she's my future Mama" "Oh" Salome paused slightly embarrassed. "I... I didn't know, oh, she certainly doesn't have like Brenda's shape or even my daughter or even the ones you always follow that year," She paused turning towards her, "He has his type, big breast, voluptuous, you too but who cares ehn. My daughter, it doesn't matter if you look like ruler, It's character that matters these days. My dear, how are you?"

Kilahi cleared her throat, this woman made insult sound like she just handed over a priceless gift to you, like you're supposed to take it with all manner of gratitude.

"I'm Fine Ma" Kilahi blinked.

"How's your family?"

"They're fine"

"Ehya. I hope they're aware of the relationship, how old are you 24? Although I didn't think Pastor will end up getting a small one but who are we to question God. I mean he has waited so long for this moment, I'm sure God must have spoken to him concerning you." She smiled with pride then she looked over at Gbadamosi.

"I hope you heard well from God? One cannot afford to make mistakes with marriage. See Tatiana? Assuming she wasted her time with you, she would have met her wonderful husband and she would have been single"

Gbadamosi kept quiet. That was the best answer he could give that moment. The woman was definitely trying to make him react so she can go around spreading it to her friends how a Pastor made her feel insulted.

Salome picked up from where she left off, she was feeling in the zone at this moment, "Even though sef, it's been long overdue. My dear girl, I hope you're enjoying the family, have you met the family?" She asked then she sucked her teeth in disappointment. "That was will be hard oh, the children don't even pay visits to their parents who are your future in laws, this begs the question. What kind of family are you entering into?"

"Oh please what's wrong with the family she's entering into?" Mrs George asked standing so close her and she faked a smile, Kilahi arced her brow in surprise smiling at her. She remembered meeting her at the wedding at Manny's family house.

She didn't know who the woman was but now, she's even more confused. Didn't she meet the woman's husband that day? And why is she now with Gbadamosi's father?

Questions!

"Good evening Ma, good evening Sir" She greeted bending her knees.

"Good evening" Mr George replied with a wide smile but Mrs George ignored her. All she wanted was to settle scores with the snake called Salome.

"Temi darling, you just appeared out of nowhere like a ghost. The powder on your face, is it not too much like this?" She asked taking the last sip from the glass. She was now left with an empty glass. "Did you empty your lipstick on your lips?" She asked.

"You like it right? I'm sure the color won't look the same on you"

"I stay way from things that will scare people away. I won't want the lips stick company suing me for using their productly wrongly"

Salome faked a laughter, "Well, lipsticks like this are not good for people with skin that look bleached l" "Excuse you?" "I'm not saying you look bleached oh, don't get me wrong, all I'm saying is that when to a certain age, they are things are expected of you to have and also to stop using." She emphasized on the have.

"Red lipstick will make you look odd"

"With the appropriate measure, we won't have to go around looking like masquerades"

Salome laughed gazing at Mr George, "Your wife is so funny, appropriate measure like the powder on your face" "That's on me" Mr George lifted his hands, "I handled her make up"

"Awwn" Kilahi said with a smile, "That's sweet actually"

"I'm just shocked that sweat didn't clean it." "I touched up before coming in" "You shouldn't have oh, there's a toilet if you want to reduce it. Do you need a mirror, I have one in my purse oh"

Mrs George faked a laughter, There are more blush on your cheek then you've experienced in your lifetime. Do need a mirror to see that? Or wait, that's a personal experience"

Mr George cleared his throat, "Women and make up arguement, whether it's blush or contour or what do they call it again. All i know is that all the ladies standing here are all looking beautiful"

"Thank you Sir" Kilahi replied. "Thank you" Salome blushed. Deep down she wanted to insult her where it hurts.

Mrs George cleared her throat, "I couldn't help but overhear your last statement" "Oh yes! You didn't tell me your son was with someone, I was trying to match make him with someone. Do you know Monica? Then I got the shock of my life that he has someone already" She laughed nervously now pointing at Kilahi.

"I actually thought he'll do better."

"Excuse you?" Gbadamosi asked but she waved her hands, including the empty glass. " I'm not insulting you oh Gbadamosi but judging from your type. Have you seen my Tatiana, she's here oh" She turned back pointing at Tatiana who was having a conversation with a woman.

Mrs George scoffed, "That's Tatiana? I can't believe that's the same girl I watched grow" "She's beautiful right?" "Goodness gracious, she's already older than her age, how old is she again? I wonder how she'll look like when she gets to my age."

"At least she has made me a grandma"

"You know what they say, slow steady wins the race" "I guess the price at the end ended up being different from what we all imagined" She faked a smile at Kilahi.

Just when Gbadamosi opened his lips to speak again, Kilahi laced her fingers into his then she mouth, "I'm fine" "Are you sure?" He mouths back.

Mrs George faked a smile, "What does that have to do with the family she's entering into? My family"

"This girl has every right to know that things are not going all that well. I'm sure their relationship is still young. She deserves to know that your children haven't visited in a long time and even Gbadamosi here" She emphasize looking at Kilahi with all seriousness and concern.

"Gbadamosi here has not visited his parent's house. I was even going to intercede today, thats among my major agenda tonight." "You can't just help yourself from meddling into people's business right?" Mrs George snapped at her but Salome placed her palm on her chest as though she found her words so outrageous.

"Meddle? No. I care about people, I'm an intercessor, I put people in prayer, like i said the other day, I consider their problem and try to solve them"

"Oh wow."

"Yes. If she finally ends up being the one Gbadamosi will finally get married to. I think she deserves to know that the family table is shaking and that's why you guys cannot have dinner or breakfast as a family. People are talking so there's no point to pretend about it." She exhaled now rubbing Kilahi's arms.

Then Kilahi went silent, she had a whole lot she wanted to say but she chose to say it inside her head. For sometime her gaze kept roving over from Gbadamosi to his her.

"So my dear, I'm not saying this family is not good, don't get me wrong but I'm just opening your eyes to see where you need to pray towards"

Kilahi nods, "Thank you Ma, I really appreciate this counsel but I don't agree completely cause I come from a very large extended family in Benue, a few are in Lagos, some in Ibadan. The fact we don't meet often doesn't mean we don't love each other. Life happens to most of us, in between busy schedules and all. It's hard to keep up but with calls you can also spread that love, after all communication is key in any relationship"

Gbadamosi seemed impressed at this moment but Salome clicked her tongue, "You think so?" "I'm positive. I'm sure if the family are not converging for a general visit calls go a long to bring the love condiments together. Like when you're cooking a food, and an insignificant ingredient is missing. Even as important as bale leafs are. If they're not in my jollof, I can still cook a pot of happy meal for my family by improvising. The families are scattered abroad, the calls they make binds them together. I dont know if you understand my point. If I remember, Gbadamosi here had dinner with his parents early this year"

"It wasn't in the house" Salome argued and Kilahi chuckles, "Just because my parents came to have dinner in my home doesn't rule out the fact that we had dinner as a family. As long as it's a family gathering, I'm sure the purpose was achieved that day"

Salome was getting angry at this point, "It was to seal a marriage deal between Brenda and Him"

Mrs George opened her lips to speak up but Kilahi did instead, "Even it was to sign a treaty after a long war, it doesn't defeat the purpose that he had dinner with his parents. This is simple philosophy Ma" She paused chuckling then she pressed on, "Gbadamosi Is a busy man, his brothers both reside in Abuja. It's not excuse enough if you want to view it from a far angle but if you put it closely under a microscope, you'll understand thw situation more but we're looking forward to a family dinner very soon at the family house." She answered taking a deep breath.

She had no answer why she gave that reply but she felt good about it. Besides, Salome's face afterwards was priceless; She wasn't sure whether to be angry or not, she hated the confidence and wisdom that came with each crafted sentences.

Small but mighty with words!

Kilahi could see a smile flicker about Gbadamosi and his father's lips.

"Yes we will be having dinner soon" Mr George agreed to the dinner, excitement washed all over her from the defeat on Salome's face. The smug smile had waned off completely.

"We could have invited you, but too bad you're not family" Mrs George shot at her and Salome faked a smile in return.

"Not like I'll be coming anyways"

"No one is inviting you either"

Salome rubbed Kilahi by the arm again, "Please my dear, do your investigation before you jump in. Marriage is a very critical institution." "Salome" Mr George called out, "What are you insinuating?" "Nothing Sir, it's just a motherly advise, she looks like a good girl"

"Weren't you the one trying to match make me with Monica?" Gbadamosi sneered, "Well... still I would have given her this same motherly advise? She needs to ask around, know the family she wants to enter into. Understand the real reason why the children are not coming to visit the family, assumptions before marriage can cost a woman her life"

Kilahi smiled, "Ma, seeing that I've tried my best to make analogies and you still don't understand. I'll put this simply; I'm sure there's a reason for a lot of things that has happened, reasons best understood by people who are members of the family than outsiders. You must have heard things but the truth is, people have the habit of judging people by what they see. We're all guilty! I mean I'm meeting you for the first time Ma, but if I want to judge you wrongly, I'll just assume you're a gossip or someone who really hates the family and is ready to do all in her power to pick on them at every chance she gets but no, I can't make that assumption just yet because I don't have a close relationship with you . Before Gbadamosi and I started courting, I thought he was a womanizer and all sorts. I didn't like him initially! Everyone is entitled to their opinion but still we need to come to a point in life where we..." She trailed off looking up at Gbadamosi then she chuckles, "Where we come to realize that there's more to a person than hearsay and gossips from neighbors and friends. When you get closer, it's a whole different view from just watching from afar" She exhaled and he blushed biting on his lower lips, "I don't understand why you're staring at me? I'm starting to feel shy" He covered his face then he dropped his hands down and they both laughed out loud.

He arced his brow, one of his eyebrows, higher than the other, and his smile became a little smug. He was proud of her!

Salome swallowed hard, she felt insulted, she felt like Kilahi indirectly called her a gossip and bearer of bad news!

"I wish you luck, I hope the wedding won't take longer than it took to find her"

"Oh it won't" Gbadamosi replied, "Enjoy the party" She shrugged leaving then he laughed staring down at Kilahi, "That was mind blowing" "What? I had to say something"

"I didn't have anything nice to say"

Kilahi bowed her head at Mrs George, "Good evening once again Mrs Coker?" She said almost like a question and Mrs George rolled her eyes, "I beg your pardon?" "I said" "Oh I wasn't deaf, you just called me Mrs Coker"

Mr George held her hands then he gave her a look to calm her down, "Mom, you're her twin, what's the difference?" "She just called me by the wrong name" "And you're going to let it slide" He whispered, "Slide?" She scoffed looking at Kilahi who was completely clueless.

"She Should have gotten her facts right?" She snapped leaving and her husband followed her.

Gbadamosi takes a deep breathe and Kilahi shrugged feeling awful, "Did i do something wrong?" "No. Mom is just being dramatic as usual because you mistook her for Manny's Mom. They're twins" "Jesus Christ! Why didn't you tell me?" "It didn't come up in any of our conversation. I didn't even know you already met my second Mom"

"At the wedding, I was at Manny's house. I met her with her husband. When I saw her with your Dad i was lost initially, no wonder she was taking it personally. I thought it was ..." She trailed off, "God I'm so thoughtless"

"Don't best yourself up"

"Who dates a guy without knowing how his parents look like? Your father even knew me before he met me. Ugh!" She groaned.

Gbadamosi held her hands, "Babe, it's fine. You don't have to beat yourself up" "I'm sorry but i have to apologize to her and I'm going now." She excused herself now walking towards Mr and Mrs George.

Manny pulled out his phone from his pocket looking through his messages. Hilary was yet to respond.

What's going on? Youre too quiet

Grey hairs are already growing on my hair

I hope by the time you respond, you'll be showing me more respect😂

Let me know if you're fine, I'm trying to have a good time at Sam's exhibition. I miss you💔, no one to cheer me up and you're not even online too😭😭.

Madam what are you doing?

Have you seen an Ebonyi man there? Is that it?

He paused in thought, the statement sounded wrong so he deleted it.

Message deleted

How's that little man doing? Did you successful take him away or did your late husband's mother proved difficult. Gosh, I'm in suspense. Do and answer my question or else, I'll be flooding this your DM with messages and memes 😂

He felt a tap on his back so he turned to see Monica in a yellow top and black pallazo trousers smiling back at him. "Good evening Manny" "Jeez... Monica. Good evening, what's up now? What are you doing here"

At first he saw Julie Sanders, now Monica...

Monica shrugged, "Mama T invited me" "Mama T.." "Mrs Salome Igbokwe, Tatiana and Nancy's mom" "Oh. Wow" "Why?" "I don't know... I just came to survey"

"The art exhibition? Its beautiful how they turned the gallery around. Have you been to this gallery before now"

"No. Is Gbadamosi still single? I can't just help but noticed he has been with that woman all evening. Is she a friend? I want to talk to him but, she hasn't left..." She turned to see Gbadamosi alone.

"Finally, he's alone"

"Monica?" Muyiwa called from afar then he laughed, "What are you doing here?" "I'll like to stay and talk to you but I want to meet Gbadamosi first"

Manny lifted a finger up, "Muyiwa can you keep Monica busy while I have a word with Gbadamosi?" "Say whaaat?" He replied with an high pitch voice. "No"

Mr George folded his hands frowning at his wife, "That was totally unnecessary" "She.." "She obviously didnt know. For someone that has gone through this mistake all her life, don't you think it's unfair getting angry over something so trivial only because you don't like her"

"I wasn't been being unfair, I felt offended"

"You were offended by Salome and ended up transferring your anger at her too. She's a sweet young girl and she looks gentle" "Looks can be deceiving" "Admit it, she won Salome hands down in the most polite way. She's shrewd, admit it"

She rolled her eyes, "What if you're both wrong about her" "Believe in Gbada's choice and let's get to know her rather than waging war. She deserves an apology" "She mixed up my name and I get to be the one to apologize. Over my dead body"

"Temi"

She moved closer to him in awe, her lips circled in a 'o' shape. "Did you just call me that? Wow, we're having an argument because of her, my son insulted me because of this same woman and you think she's the right person."

"Hello Sir, Hello Ma" Kilahi called out and they both turned towards her. Her heart raced in fear, she finally understood why people get scared when they meet their in laws. Mr George gave her warm and welcoming smile while his wife had this scary look on her face then she rolled her eyes, "What do you want? Are you sure you're not talking to the wrong twin?"

Kilahi clasped her fingers together while a small smile curved her lips, "I'm sorry Ma.. I have to apologize for that error. No amount of excuse can waive this off, it's intolerable." She apologized then she picked up where she left off, "I didn't know you're a twin, Gbadamosi never mentioned it. I'm really sorry"

"Gbadamosi? How old are you?"

Kilahi stammered through inaudible words, "I don't understand, what did I do wrong again?" "You did nothing dear" Mr George smiled, "Ignore my wife, she's only in a bad mood" "Okay. I just wanted apologize"

Mrs George shrugged with a fake smile, she didn't want her husband further irritated by her reactions. "It's okay" She replied, "You can leave my husband and I alone now" "Sure. Thank you Ma for accepting my apology. I look forward to seeing you more" She smiled and took her leave.

"What was that for?" Mr George frowned at her, "She's 26 and Gbadamosi is 37, she called him Gbadamosi" "What is she suppose to call him, Daddy?" "This is unacceptable in every way" "We've attended weddings where old people remarry younger ones. I don't like this person you're turning into, you're acting desperate and paranoid. You can't play this cards that way. You wanted our son to find someone, now he has, what exactly do you want? What? I feel like a broken record, saying the same thing every time!"

Kilahi sighted Manny and a person she didn't know walk up to Gbadamosi. She stopped to think for a moment whether to interrupt them or find something else to do.

She needed to say hi to Manny though.

Manny and Muyiwa approached Gbadamosi, "Can we steal your attention for a minute before Kilahi comes?" Manny asked, "I'm sorry, I'm only into women" He replied provoking a loud laughter from Muyiwa.

"Good one"

"When did you guys get here?"

"You would have noticed if your eyes weren't so glued on Kilahi" Manny answered and he laughed. His eyes wandered left and right at the both of them, "What's going on? Is this an intervention? Kilahi will still be here," He smiled widely looking at Muyiwa, "I should introduce her to you before you'll try something stupid"

Muyiwa laughed, "Wow.. She might not even be my type" "Do you have type?" Manny snapped and he laughed throwing his head backwards, "You guys should just leave me."

Manny cleared his throat, "We are here for something important. Have you seen Julie Sanders," "Yes... She said hi to me when I was speaking to Kilahi, any problem?" "Nothing. I saw Julie Sanders and Monica from the past"

"Monica? Monica Monica" Gbadamosi muttered as though trying to find a ring to it, Mrs Salome mentioned the same name but he couldn't really place who it was. "Which of the Monica?" He asked but Muyiwa busted into laughter instead, "Guy how many Monica did you knack when you were in the world"

Gbadamosi frowned at him but he continued laughing anyway, "Muyiwa shut up." Manny snapped, "It's Monica UC college" "Jeez now! That was in secondary school"

Muyiwa laughed, "You mean the girl that wasn't in our school but you were doing things to" "Thats my past. I wasn't even having sex that time" "But you were having other things" Manny chipped in meeting Gbadamosi's glare.

"Really?"

"Sorry it's just a bit funny "

Kilahi stood beside Gbadamosi smiling, "So what's funny?" She asked looking at Manny and Muyiwa. "Good evening Manny, Good evening Sir" She greeted bowing her head. "Is it this big head, you're Siring?" Manny asked pointing at him then he hissed, "Don't let the shirt he wore tonight deceive you, on working days and weekends, he doesn't have sense"

Muyiwa laughed stretching his hands at Kilahi, "My name is OluwaMuyiwa, you know what that means in English? God brought this one so when you hear my name, you just know that this guy is special."

Gbadamosi rolled his eyes, "Who is this one advertising for?" "Beats me too oh"

"I'm one of Gbadamosi's friend that was sent on exile for refusal to repent from my sins and you must be the pretty girl with that beautiful name that stole his heart"

Kilahi blushed receiving his hands, "I'm Kilahi Agbo" "I stand uncorrected, beautiful name." He whispered lifting up her hands towards his lips and Gbadamosi pulled it down, "As what?" "I was to kiss her before you now, I'm sure you haven't kissed her hand." He replied laughing hard while Kilahi smiled.

"Don't mind this Pastor guy that want to bore you with spiritual love"

Manny and Kilahi was laughing at this point, "Who said I'm bored?" She asked, "Ask him oh"

"See as I'm swooning your girlfriend already. I might steal your girlfriend this night oh"

"Even if you put a gun or knife to my face and scream Gbadamosi or your life, it's going to be Gbadamosi cause he has my heart already so, I'm sorry dear OluwaMuyiwa the heart robber, you can take your heart robbery skills elsewhere, you don't have the password to this vault"

"Have you guys heard?" Gbadamosi glowed with pride.

Muyiwa placed her palm on her chest in hurt, "Ehya Sorry" Manny sympathize with him while laughing. "Hei God! This one choke me!" Muyuwa replied then he laughed afterwards. He stood still and clapped, "Gbadamosi, will you mind giving me password?"

"Yes i will."

"Jokes apart. Nice to meet you Kilahi, please call me Muyiwa, Oluwamuyiwa is just too mouthful"

"I like the sound of it."

"Soothe yourself, na you mouth go pain"

"What were you guys talking about that was funny?" She asked turning towards Manny. "Uh.... It's .. It's just an observation Muyiwa and I noticed and we thought we should bring it to Gbadamosi's awareness"

Gbadamosi looked down at her, "Can you please give us a few minute?" "Oh... Okay, no problem. Let me go and meet Sewuese" "I'm sorry" "It's fine, you'll be compensating me later" She smiled taking her leave and Muyiwa smiled.

"Anyone that hears that will think it's a compensation in bed, they won't know that..." He trailed off on seeing Gbadamosi's hard face. "Oga terminator, dey calm down. She doesn't look bad, young but... Not bad. The girl get lines"

"She's perfect"

"Let's plan something good, like a sit out, except in this case, it will be a sit out in your house. So that the babe can at least see your house before the wedding day now. You can be free to maybe hold her hands, put your hands around her waist, you're not doing anything against the Bible, you're just building relationship, intimacy"

"Or building tension"

Muyiwa laughed, "It depends on how you want to take it oh, if the tension takes you into the room and the do happens, we'll keep it a secret" He teased but Gbadamosi didn't find it funny.

"I know it's not going to lead anywhere because you're Gbadamosi, the man that has endured temptation for this long. It's just a harmless suggestion. Abi what do you think Manny?"

Manny shrugged, "For me, it doesn't sound bad, we can all chill with our friends. I can bring Hilary and Muyiwa will bring Sharon" He paused and noticed the frown that sat on his face at the mention of Sharon.

"Why will you bring her into this now as if she's my girlfriend?"

Manny and Gbadamosi laughed, "Abeg, let's move to our conversation. We were talking about you having many things with Monica"

Manny scoffed, "Na that one you go remember. She said she came for surveying, I even thought it was Art surveying until I finally understood the kind of surveying she meant"

"Romantic surveying, she want to survey the perimeter of your trousers and length and breath of"

"Shut up" Manny and Gbadamosi snapped.

"But the truth is..." Manny trailed off, "It's no big deal. This happens. There are times I meet my ex, no biggie. Although mine are ex girlfriends, I didn't have pHD like uncle over here" He added teasingly and a laughter escaped his lips.

"That's my old life"

"How many old lovers have you met?" "They don't all converge at the same place. Haba, they already know I'm a Pastor, except a few that tried their luck irrespective of that"

"True sha but it's just one of those things"

Muyiwa laughed, "That's one thing about changing your ways, every past becomes a blast. Me, i'm simply living in peace with all men because my past is still my present and possibly my future" "I reject it in Jesus Name" Gbadamosi snapped at him.

"Your future is going to be different. You'll have a stable home, get married to a wife"

"Are you cursing me?"

Manny laughed, "Wow, having a stable home and getting married is a curse" "Not like that... I'm not ready all that shit yet. I just want to enjoy life" "Forget about Julie and the Monica of these generation. It's a flushed out past"

"Mrs Igbokwe Invited her, Tatiana is here too"

Muyiwa scoffed, "Wow... All those ones are just liabilities, hypocrites. That woman, Salome or whatever... She has always been nosy. I'll find a nice way to tell Monica to maintain her distance because you're here with your girlfriend"

"I have to tell Kilahi"

Manny shook his head, "Don't. I don't think it's necessary. She'll feel bad" Gbadamosi exhaled, "Mom already made her feel bad" "How?" "Long story. Julie told me Sam invited her here" Gbadamosi paused plunging his hands in his pocket.

Manny shook his head, "He didn't invite her, Sam spoke to me about it weeks ago, he told her that he was having an art exhibition and she asked about you"

"Really?"

"This was weeks ago, before Kilahi. I'm sure she's just here to see if you were still available"

"Available for knacking" Muyiwa chipped in then he added, "You guys should not look at me anyhow, it's the truth. I'm sure that girl didn't come all the way to Nigeria because of Art. She came for your infamous artistic skills in bed"

"She knows I'm a Pastor"

"Abeg! When has that ever stopped some?" He hissed.

"So every one just decided to converge here as what? A conspiracy to make Kilahi waver? Cause if she finds out that all these people are gathered here, she'll feel uncomfortable. She'll feel so uncomfortable"

"It might bring out her insecurity too" Manny added.

Gbadamosi breathes out, "I don't want that. Guess who I saw again?" "Who?"

Kat walked up to the three of them with a smile on her face, "I knew i recognize that ass any day" She whispered squeezing herself into their midst. "Hey guys... We meet again"

"Oh we meet again for real" Muyiwa grinned, "Hey sexy kat"

"Hey" She waved and smiled at him.

Manny nods, glanced at Gbadamosi and then at her then he pointed at her, "Is she the.... Wow" He muttered in realization.

Kat fixed her full attention to Gbadamosi, "Hey hottie" She bit her lips lifting her long fingers to rest on his shoulder but he quickly moved back.

"What are you doing here? Are you also stalking me?" He asked but she laughed shaking her head. "No, I'm not that attracted to you. Okay fine, I'm that attracted to you but I'm not stalking you. I didn't even know you'll be here. Trust me, it's purely a coincidence. A good one for me cause I'm a collector who came to collect and have a damn good time. I'm also looking forward to collecting other things, depending on how you wanna give me." She said and he smiled dipping his hands into his back pocket, "How about..." He trailed off, pulling out three roughened tracts then he handed one to her.

"This is another souvenir for you. You probably didn't read the last one but I trust God to help you read this one"

She received it with a sly smile, "I love when men of God play hard to get. Always beautiful to watch until i end up in their bed" She whispered, "Trust me, it will be worth your time"

"You'll be wasting your precious time on that fruitless journey"

"Leave me to my risk"

"See, I'm here with my girlfriend and i'll really appreciate the distance. Can you just avoid me the whole night. Thank you very much"

"You can't get rid of me that easily, imma be up your face till I end up on your face tonight"

Muyiwa grinned, "Where are these girls seeing these lines from? Like whaaaat?"

Manny cleared his throat, "Katty or Katherine" "Kat" She replied sharply turning towards him, "Kitty Kat preferably" "Even though it's Pussy cat, is not really my business. I'm pretty sure that's not even the name your mother knows you by"

"Ouch, that's rude"

"Sorry but can you focus on what you came here for? Collecting whatever you came here to collect and not trying to seduce a Pastor? He came here with his girlfriend who happens to be my good friend so for the sake of peace, can we just be on our own and mind our business"

Kat smiled, "Good thing I don't like peace, i love violence." "All the best for you" Gbadamosi replied pushing the remaining tracts into his pocket then he walked away.

"You can bet on it" She smirked.

"Everything is just somehow weird. From the way his mother got angry. I felt bad" Kilahi complained to Sewuese. "You didn't do anything" "I should have known they're twins, mehn... I need to start asking Gbadamosi a lot of questions before I will wake up and find out that he's also a twin"

Sewuese laughed, "What's this one saying?" She asked and Kilahi laughed, "Its not funny oh. I felt bad, to top It all, three of his exes are here"

"What?"

"I'm serious, one Julie Sander, Monica and Tatiana, the name is in stuck in my head the way that woman was just talking urgh!"

"That's messy"

"It was a funny conversation. It seems like Mrs George doesn't like the woman and I totally understand. She was now trying to body shame me usuing his ex as bench mark . Telling me that Gbadamosi loves curvy types"

"Don't tell me it got to you"

Kilahi exhaled, "A little bit but I'm at advantage because they have the shape but he chose me. They're not even my concern, I'm thinking of my future mother in law and how i ruin what was supposed to be my first impression"

Sam called on everyone's attention, Sewuese caught his stare, she felt his gaze locked on her. There was an endless longing to it! The reporters edged closer focusing their cameras on him.

"I've been dreaming about this day, how it will be like. Funny it's not my first time but the nerves really had me, I want to use this medium to thank the Almighty God for life, without which I probably won't be here. I want to thank my family for their support and prayers, my friends. I'll like to show gratitude to my team, everyone present here even the media, everyone for coming to grace this gallery with your presence. Also can you join me celebrate my girlfriend Sewuese" He paused looking towards her and Sewuese instantly became shy cause people were giving partial attention to her now.

A round of applause broke out from different corners making Sewuese emotional. "I think I'm about to cry" She whispered to Kilahi.

"She's one the African work of art that i met here in Nigeria. Beautiful inside and out, sorry I'm doing this in public, I'm sure she must feel like vanishing right now. She sees public romantic gestures as public humiliations, I guess most Nigerian women have this trait but I'm doing this to let know that I love her and I won't stop loving her even if I'm not here. This is a public declaration of my love. I wish I had a ring, I would have probably proposed"

Chuckles broke out.

Sewuese mouths, "I love you too"

"So.. Several years ago, I began a good work, the emergence of this gallery here in Lagos and each year I scout for fresh talents, I find it fascinating. I believe in art and I believe in helping my colleagues rise in their career path that was why I started this movement across Africa. Thank you for coming to this Art exhibition. The Genesis of art is as old as the world is itself, however, the importance is indispensable. Art is an expression of your mind liquefied, specified and established into what could be a beautiful drawing or painting or the most magnificent sculpture the world has ever seen and these guys have poured and converted their imagination into something so sublime that caught my attention and I believe many others will be impressed at what talent they hold inside. Even so, i want to bring their existing works together and work with these artists on the production of new works. Today i'll like to call on the six artiste that stole my heart and attention, Wale Adesoyo from the University of Ibadan"

The people applauded as Wale steps out to stand beside him, "Kenneth Lewis from University of Ilorin, he's not even an art student. Imose Osagie from the University of Benin, Friday Onyekachi , Michael Okpara University, Sewuese Terkimbi from the Benue State and , Ishaya Gyang"

They all stood beside him with big smiles on their faces. "I told punch news that their talent is out of this world and you've all cone to have a look. I hope this serve as a spur to other artists, keep doing what you with diligence and creativity, I'm still scouting for the best among many. Keep your minds oiled, keep your imagination active, it might be you tomorrow. Enjoy"

Gbadamosi entered into the toilet, he hissed exhaling loudly then he laughed at the crazy experience he has had that night. He knew it was the devil's plot to make him fall but he laughed in his face instead.

The book of 1 Corinthians 10:13 crossed his mind that moment.

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

His phone rang in his pocket so he slipped it out staring at the caller ID

Pastor Bamidele...

"Good evening" He said on picking the call, "You're just the person I wanted to speak with"

"Shey? I was praying and i saw you... Are you okay? Is everything fine?" "Yes and No. Remember the art exhibition? I jus have mentioned it" "Yes. What happened?"

"There are three of ex lover here, one stubborn mosquito that doesn't understand what no means." "Argh! Mosquitoes are the worst, they just want to make music in your ears. They make it a must that you listen to their music whether or not you like it, cover your bed sheets, wear a ear morph.. These guys are still annoyingly buzzing into your ears but the fact remains, they're not buzzing because they're trying to sell their music, no, it's a sound track for 'Get ready to get your blood sucked."

"Exactly. She looks stubborn, she's out for blood and I'm just trying to be diplomatic but In reality, I want to tell her to get lost"

Bamidele laughed. "I understand, we go through this basically everyday so i totally understand. But there's no temptation you experience thats not common to man. Don't worry, I'm praying for you, just use God's wisdom"

"Thank you"

"You're welcome" He replied then Bella walked in then sha gasped, "Oh my God, it's the men toilet. Silly me" She said and Gbadamosi rolled his eyes.

"Great! You again"

What do you think of today's update?? 😂🤣🤣

Wahalur...

I have made a lot of mistakes with Names🤦🏼. I swore that I won't come back because each time I click on the edit option... It take me back to previous Revision history (Those that write should understand.)

I had to edit so.... In case there's mix up in other scene manage it for me😍

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