Yei! I haven't been in this space in three months, I kid you not! 😩
I'm alive guys 💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼😂
Let me do a quick explanation on why It looked like I stopped posting:

Within those period, I've had to prepare for my nephew's birthday, I've had to nurse him while he was sick, I've had to spend sleepless nights; I've gotten sick too! 

It was during one of the period where I was forcing myself to type at night that my Mom said something that struck a chord in me. She said, "Eno, you better take care of yourself. Think of your health first. If person  fall sick when she dey work, at least she go use the money from the work, take care of herself."

I had one job at that moment; the nanny job conferred upon me! 😂

I wasn't looking good, health-wise! I was growing lean from stress of staying awake because of the boy, and to type. Typing in the afternoon is always not feasible cause my baby will always want to do a video call with his parents or watch rhymes. 😂🤣

Omo! I received sense and I decided to take a rest. I've been typing secretly sha.

I'm sorry. I hope you guys can understand and forgive me.

Three chapters coming up today!

Do you doubt me? 😂

🫧Chapter 59🫧

Unedited

Deja crossed her legs in bed, she was settled in a comfortable position while she studied the Bible. Her mind began to wander. Memories of the previous night swirled in her thoughts, filling her with anxiety. Osasu's stern look, his eyes blazing with protective motive  towards his cousin. She understood his motivations, but how could she make him see that it was all a misunderstanding?

As she reflected, a gentle whisper echoed within her, "Have I not shown up for you, why do you still doubt?" The words struck a chord, and Deja's emotions overflowed. She burst into tears, her voice trembling.

"God..." she trailed off, sobbing. "I'm sorry for this moment of doubt. I don't know who else to turn to except you."

With a sniffle, she wiped away her tears, composing herself. Her voice took on a sense of determination.

"There is no one I'd rather turn to. I followed your instructions yesterday, and you gave me a gift. You showed me that the heart of man is in your hands, and you turn it however you will to conform to your will."

Deja's eyes closed, her hands clasped in prayer.

"Lord, I thank you because this a problem I'm magnifying is nothing but a tiny thing to you . I know that all mountains become plain before you, so I have come to lay down this mountain at your feet, so you can make it plain enough for to walk over them. Thank you for quenching this fire that's about to start before it becomes a problem. I'm  grateful cause I know all things works together for good for them that love God and are called according to purpose. If Vincent is your will for me, turn the heart of his cousin to be in my favor. Amen" She muttered.

In the silence, Deja sought peace, trusting that her prayers would be heard and answered. Her heart, though still troubled, began to find that peace, knowing she has the backing of God.

Kilahi gasped from her sleep and Sewuese jerked too. Balls of sweat filled her face and neck area. "What happened?" She asked Kilahi who was snapping her fingers and muttering, "God forbid, I reject it. I overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of my testimony. I testify that I shall not die but live to declare God's works. I speak long life into the womb of my destiny, nothing shall cut it short."

Sewuese exhaled in fear, "Babe, is everything okay?" She asked and Kilahi glanced at her. "I need to pray." "First off, what happened? You scared me, you haven't had nightmares in.... a month, abi? I've never seen you scream that way. What happened?"

"I had this dream, I was at an event and there was  gun shot everywhere and people were dodging bullets, literally dodging bullets and someone walked up to me, it was a huge man, very hefty and very angry and I was shot. Sewuese, it felt so real."

"God forbid! Do you think it's a revelation or fear from the stuff that happened yesterday?" Sewuese asked in worry. "I don't think it's out of fear. I wasn't even afraid."

"I'm sure it has something to do with what happened yesterday. Maybe those cult guys are planning something against you."

"God has already gone ahead of me, no plan from the pit of hell shall work against...." Her ringtone interrupted her. She grabbed the phone and answered the call- it was Gbadamosi.

"Good morning my Choicest choice." "Good morning my love, how are you?"

Kilahi exhales, "Fine, I thank God. Can you call back? I'm sorry, I was about to pray." "I'm sorry." "What about you? How are you?" She asked and he laughed.

"Pray." He urged and she chuckled, "I figured out since I already answered the call, why not go through with it?"

" Did you sleep well?"

"I did until I woke up from this terrible nightmare." "By any means it didn't have anything to do with guns did it?" He asked and she paused.

"How did you know?"

"I had a revelation hours ago. I was waiting for you to wake before letting you know."

Kilahi rolled her eyes, "The book of Isaiah stated that they shall surely gather but because of the gathering is not for the benefit of Kilahi Agbo it will scattered in Jesus name." "Amen. God has revealed it, there's victory but you must tread carefully. Avoid Mercy and Mercy's case for now."

"Choicest..."

Gbadamosi clicked his tongue to interrupt whatever opinion she had, "My love, no is saying forget about them, I'm just saying; avoid it for now."

"Okay." She resolved with a sigh.

At the Word Foundation Church, Bimbo surveyed the chair arrangement in the sanctuary, her keen eye for detail ensuring everything was perfect for the day's services. She dispatched ushers to make last-minute adjustments while taking a quick glance at her wrist watch.

Ade walked over and whispered into her ears, "The first question you should ask is, is the wrist watch working?" He asked holding on to her wrist then he busted into laughter.

"It's not even working!" He revealed and she smacked his head and he ran off laughing. "Ah han, so much violence on a Sunday morning." Chioma stated.
"She's checking time on a wrist watch that's not even working." Ade commented and everyone who could hear laughed.

"Pele oh, you could not walk up to technical department to get microphone ni?" Bimbo snapped.

Obinna laughed, "Maybe our chief usher has upgraded to spiritual time-telling. They say what an elder can see..."

Ade snickered, "It's true oh, spiritual Timekeeper General!"

Bimbo shook her head, smiling. "You guys are not serious. Let's focus before I use my 'spiritual eyes' to shoot somebody." She snapped and the group erupted into laughter.

In the background, the choir rehearsed  hymns, their harmonies filling the air. Meanwhile, the technical department fine-tuned the sound system and testing microphones. Across the room, the media team scrambled to set up cameras, preparing to go live for the church's online streaming.

Just then, Hilary burst in, clad in a cream shirt and sleek black pants. She was  breathing rapidly as she rushed to arrive on time.

"Good morning Guys, I hope I'm not late. The way I ran, I think I lost 13 pounds," Hilary exclaimed.

"Love your pants." Ade complimented and she blew kisses at him, "You're loving a lady's pant in the house of God."

"Ara-oko Abia State, Pants, trousers, different spelling same words. It's people like you that will still do, what I got versus what I ordered for when in reality you asked the vendor for black pant. The pant you know is called underwear, so the next time you want to order pants, say underwear. That's on a period thank you."

"Ọ dịghị onye jụrụ gị! (No one asked you!" Obinna snapped laughing,  "Back to sender!" Ade snapped walking up to Deja who was rocking a white shirt and black pant trousers.

"Sister Deja of the most High! Are you now seated at the left hand of God because what's going on?" He chipped in and Deja creased her brow in thought .

"What's going on?"

"You're the one that should know! Ja wa si now! (Reveal to us) Tell me the secret. Is it a new cream that making you shine or you guys have suddenly located a short route to Mount Sinai?" He asked and she blushed finally  getting a good idea of what Ade meant.

"I thought I was the only one that noticed." Obinna chipped in.

Sincerely, the compliment lifted her spirit.  "It's just my usual cream."

"It's a lie, It's either you know the route to Mount Sinai or Angel Gabriel has  shared a  good news to you guys. Kilode? The shine is shining; look at Deja now. Her face show, her shoe shines," Ade continued and she giggled.

"Blessed art thou amongst women." Obinna chipped in and Ade moved closer to her.

"Share the secret now. Has Angel Gabriel visited you?" He further teased.

"Ade, we have work to do. We need to set up the house before workers' prayers, and here you are talking about angelic visits, really?" Bimbo intervened.

"You're even blushing more than you blushed with Papa," Ade whispered and Deja widened her eyes. She didn't want anyone to know, "That was why I whispered, now," He chipped in.

"Is it a guy?" he asked and she  fought to maintain a straight face, but her lips twitched, betraying her joy. His eyes lit up, and he nodded to himself, satisfied. "I knew it!"

With a sly grin, he backed away, leaving Deja looking relieved but still slightly flustered.

"Aya mi ja (I'm scared), you ladies are scaring me with your beauty. E ja mi si (share the secret). Have you guys seen the glory of God? Abeg drop location," Ade teased.

"Drop location sharp sharp." Obinna agreed.

"Even Vaseline no do pass this one!" Ade added, and they all laughed.

Deja smiled, "I hate to be the party pooper, but let's all get to work."

"Normally you're a party pooper," Ade snapped then he added, "You should smile often; I love this new version that walked into church today." Ade said.

"Thanks, and please rephrase that statement. You didn't see me come in. A whole lazy latecomer like you." Deja laughed.

"Me Lazy? I am hardworking than your boyfriend." Ade pointed out, "Didn't the Chief Usher ask you to prepare registration form and flyer for the upcoming conference? Talkative! Cho Cho Cho! Kai!"

Michael knocked on Osasu's door, and it swung open to reveal Osasu's warm smile. "Mikoh!" he cheered, his eyes dropping to the rumpled shirt and trousers in Michael's hand, hung on hangers. "Sasu, how far nah? I no know wetin do our light, the two flats for down no get light. I fit rush iron my cloth?" Michael asked.

"Why not?" Osasu replied, letting him in.

Osasu led Michael to a high, slim table where he usually ironed his clothes. A pressing iron sat on a folded, thick cloth.

"Just dey careful, that iron mad!" Osasu warned.

"No wams. Thank you," Michael replied, placing his clothes on the table.

He plugged in the iron, and as it heated up, he began to iron his shirt. ."Maybe later, you go just call Caleb make him check the stuff," Osasu suggested.

"Later now, for now, time no dey, I gaz reach church before 8:30 before my Pastor skin me alive," Michael answered, smoothing out wrinkles.

Osasu chuckled.

"Person way hear you now go think say you be church boy, them no go know say you nah bad man! Woman wrapper!" Osasu snapped playfully. Then he snapped his fingers in remembrance.

"That reminds me, you no go believe wetin happen yesterday."

"Wetin happen?" Michael asked, arranging the shirt on the table.

"That my cousin now, Vincent. Shebi you sabi Vincent."

"Yes."

"Him come with him girlfriend yesterday."

Michael smiled, "Him don finally get girlfriend? I been don dey reason if the guy for be Reverend Father." He laughed at his own joke. "E go shock you who him bring come." "Who?" "That babe way being run commot from your house that day."

Michael paused, knowing he met Deja the previous day.

"Oh."He paused then he continued ironing, "Weton you come do?"

"You no trust me? I yarn am my mind now. I no fit use my eyes see Vincent dey enter pit make I no catch am. No be that kain babe dem dey date now."

Michael laughed, "You being dey expect Saint or Virgin?"

"No naw! That babe loose now, person way go sleep with guy way she no know. Na asewo she be now. Tueh! God forbid times 1000, times 2000 sef, instead of watching Vincent throw his life away, I go commot my eyes."

"No call her asewo," Michael said, his brow furrowed in concern.

"No be so so asewo you dey sleep with," Osasu teased.

Michael scoffed, "No too reason the matter like that.... the story different pass as you take see am."

Osasu creased his brow, "I no understand."

Michael exhaled, "I gatz ready go church sha but you get time make I for explain?"

As he finished ironing the shirt,  he hung the shirt on a hanger, looking expectant.

Osasu nodded, "Okay, explain."

Deja stood confidently in front of the packed sanctuary of Word Foundation Church (WFC), her voice ringing out as she shared her heartfelt testimony.

"I want to thank God for a whole lot, but I'll try my best to summarize it," she began, a warm smile spreading across her face. "First, I want to thank God for my family, my immediate family and the family God gave me in the church. My WFC family are amazing, and I love you guys so much!"

The congregation erupted into cheers and applause, with some members shouting "Amen!" and "Praise God!" Deja's eyes sparkled with gratitude.

"I also bless God for giving me a friend like Bimbo," she continued. "I don't know how my life would have been if there wasn't someone like her in view."

Bimbo, was was standing behind the church beamed with pride, her eyes shining with happiness. The congregation clapped again, acknowledging the special bond between the two women.

"I thank God for the man of God that I have." She chipped in hiding her smile and everyone screamed, "Papa does not care how much it will hurt you, he'll just say it as it is. Deja, you have anger issues and you need to work on it. Deja, work on yourself, even when you fall, he's just there to give you a hand and encourage you to be a better version of yourself. Thank you Daddy." She appreciated bowing her head respectfully towards Gbadamosi who was scribbling on his notepad.

"These past few weeks have been revealing," Deja said, her voice taking on a more introspective tone. "I want to thank God for the light I've received and for the salvation of my soul. I rededicated my life to God weeks ago."

Some members of the congregation raised their eyebrows, intrigued by her statement. Deja paused, surveying the crowd.

"Some of you might be wondering, wasn't she born again?" She acknowledged. "Before sharing this testimony, I went through a lot of self-conflicting battles, what will people think about me? Then I realized we spend so much time thinking of what people think about us, what about what God thinks about you. Have you thought of that? I was born again, but I didn't surrender myself to the person of Christ to be transformed. Have you ever bought an orange and you cut it open only for it to taste like lime? That was my life as a believer. I look like a sweet orange but my content was acidic. I  lived a life of pretense and hypocrisy. I was born again, but I didn't grow as much as I should. Let's say I had the most stunted growth until my eyes got opened to a whole lot."

Gbadamosi, seated on the platform, nodded his head in understanding.

"These past weeks have been quite the eye opener," Deja continued. "I started to build a relationship with God, I sought to know God for myself, no pretense. And there's something that has been on my mind for a while, something I wanted God to do, and yesterday God gave him an instruction to let go of my phone and attend a retreat, and I did. I turned off my phone and followed God's instruction," Deja said, a smile spreading across her face. "In the evening, God came through with something I didn't expect. I finally understood the scripture that said, 'For surely there is an end, and the expectation of the righteous shall not be cut off.' God surprised me more than my expectation, and till now, I'm yet to get over it. It feels like a dream!"

The congregation erupted into applause again chorusing:

Gloraaaay!!!
Hallelujah!!!
Praise the Lord!!!

"There's just a little bit of challenge at the moment," Deja acknowledged, "but I trust God to step into the situation and perfect the good work He has started. I want to bless God for making me a new creature, and I hope to use this new life that I have to serve Him faithfully. For those of us still living fake Christian life, our lives in church is different from the one we live in the society, God sees you and he wants you to be sweet inside and out. He wants us to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit. He wants us to be like him, he wants us to move from where we are to where he has positioned us to be. I hate to sound like I'm preaching but I spent 5 years ushering, I don't even know why I'm saying this. I had given my life to Christ I was not where I should have been. That means you can be in the choir, you can be a Pastor, Deacon and deaconess for donkey without having this fruits. Now is the time to take stock of your life, you don't have to wait till the end of the month or year to make resolutions, it's not too late. I've made mine and I pray that God in helps me to faithfully serve him. Amen." She concluded her testimony, the congregation gave her a standing ovation.

Pastor Gbadamosi stepped forward to the podium,  as the keyboardist simultaneously brought the sanctuary to life with vibrant chords. The keyboard's uplifting melody filled the air, setting the tone for Pastor Gbadamosi's words.

"Before we take our confession, I want to acknowledge that a whole lot of you may not fully understand Sister Deja's testimony if you're not really close to her," He began.

His eyes scanned the congregation, connecting with the gathering of believers before him.

"Sister Deja said something, she said, I don't know why I'm saying this, I'm going to tell her why. There's a force pushing her to say it because there are people who needs to hear it. It's not just to say WFC; we live and breathe on the word. Na on top the sure word of God I stand. "Are you doing what the Word of God prescribes? We call the Word of God our strength, but we end up abusing it. Confession alone isn't enough; we must embody the life we declare. Judgment isn't reached on confession, but rather on evidence produced, the fruits we bear.  Are you living the life you're confessing? Aunty 'I have the life of Christ in me'; does your lifestyle truly depict Christ? How many times have we abused the prescription of this same word we claim to stand on? We claim we love God, but are we following His commandments? Cause one of the ways God asked us to prove our love is to follow His commandments. Your living is not to do your will; your living is to do His will and acts. Whenever we find ourselves outside—cause most of us live a different life when we're away from church—ask yourself this question: Would Jesus do this if He was here? What would Jesus do if He was in this situation? It's another stock-taking moment; conduct a spiritual inventory, balance your sheets, and invest in eternal dividends. 1 John 1:9, If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." He paused staring at the congregation again.

"Thank you, Sister Deja, for sharing your inspiring testimony with us," he continued, his voice filled with gratitude. "Your journey is a powerful reminder that God is always working in our lives, even when we don't realize it. May your story encourage us all to seek a deeper relationship with God."

The congregation applauded again, and Pastor Gbadamosi raised his hands, inviting the other testifiers to join Deja.Deja was joined by several others who had experienced transformative moments in their walk with God.

Pastor Gbadamosi bursted into song, his voice booming through the sanctuary, harmonizing with the keyboardist's spirited accompaniment. "From the rising of the sun, to the setting of the same, your name is to be hallowed..."

The congregation picked up the familiar Nathaniel's Basset's song, their voices swelling in harmony.

"Ah, ah, ah, Adonia..."

"Call him Adonia.." He chanted softly and the crowd chorused the song. The auditorium was filled with the majestic sound of worship, as the congregation sang with abandon, their hearts lifted to the heavens.

Gbadamosi stood up with his iPad, preparing to leave the church office, when Deja entered, bowing her head. "Sister Comfort insists on seeing you, sir. She says it's urgent."

"I'm running late for marriage counseling at Kilahi's church," Gbadamosi replied. "If I'm delayed, Pastor Noah and the committee will have my head and I still have a family meeting."

She chuckled, "Well, I'll schedule a counseling appointment for tomorrow and ensure she's the first to speak with you. Can I promise her that, sir?" "Please do."

As she turned to leave, Gbadamosi added, "Great testimony, Deja. I'm thrilled about your growth."
"Thank you, sir," she replied, chuckling.

"And extend my regards to him," He said with a knowing smile and She gasped, "I didn't say anything! Did my testimony give it away?"

Gbadamosi laughed, he still baffles him when church members think they can hide things from him, unless God isnt freely giving him access to know. "You didn't think you can hide it from me, did you? When you were speaking, I saw a man standing close to you."

"Um...erm.." Her nerves got the better of her. "It happened last night... Vincent came over and.."

He interrupted, "Calm down, chill...there's no point being tensed. Did you see me with cane?"  He suddenly noticed her expression shift from happiness to concern.

"You look worried."

"I don't want to turn this into a counseling session," She began and he arced his brow, "Would you rather come tomorrow?"

"No. Vincent's cousin saw me leaving Michael's house after... that one night stand. Now he thinks I'm unsuitable for Vincent, I don't blame him sha but he almost caused a scene in front of everyone, including Vincent's mom yesterday. I was so ashamed! Talk about karma coming back to bite me on the ass."

His expression turned reassuring. "Just when things were looking good, this one just came from nowhere huh?" "Yes." She nodded and hissed, "I don't know what to do. I've left it for God oh!"

Gbadamosi smiled, "They're just temporary obstacles, like fogs. Trust God's plan to blow them away."

She clasped her hands, eyes closed. "God, abeg." She pleaded opening up on her eyes and he  smiled.

"Have a blessed day." "You too, sir," she replied, turning to leave.

"Sister Deja!" He called out and her and she turned, "Yes, Sir?"

"There's a remarkable difference between the woman who stands before me today and the one who came for flyers that day." He noted and She suppressed a laugh. "Thank you, sir."

"What did you do with those flyers? You took like 100 and 20." He teased in obvious mockery watching her mouth gape in horror, "Ah Papa!"

"Evangelist Adejare, Keep it up." He encouraged.

She laughed, bowed her head and left the office. Her phone beeped, she glanced at it to see a message from Vincent. 

Good afternoon Babe.
Meet me at the house when you're free. We need to talk, I should probably keep this from you but Osasu is here and we need to talk.

Aunty Abebi sat on her couch, she was clad in a deep blue shirt and a jean short. She had her glasses on. In her quiet home, the only sound heard was the flipping sound made from her going through some documents. On her free hand was a cup of tea, she dropped them and then scratched her natural hair and groaned through the process- Damn the dandruffs!

Her ring tone  interrupted her thought process, she groaned and stretched her hands to carry her phone from the stool where it laid. She groaned on seeing it was her sister.

"I'm busy Aisha." She cuts in.

"Good morning Aunty Abebi. How are you?"

"Busy. What do you want?"

"I'm still in Abuja."

"Good for you. Get me some Kilishi on your way back."

Mrs Aisha scoffed, "It's nice to know you can still joke in this situation." "I'm sorry, remind me my dear sister, is there something I'm supposed to be worried about?" Aunty Abebi asked unperturbed and her sister scoffed.

"Baba is still in the hospital. They managed to stabilize him, he had an heart attack."

Aunty Abebi paused, she almost shocked herself  after that pause, was that a worry chord that struck right there in her heart?

"Okay." She replied with a careless shrug,  "Okay? Aunty Abebi, is that all you can say? OKay?"

Aunty Abebi scoffed,   "What do you expect me to say?"  "Your father is dying." "He's not my father!"

"Biologically, his blood runs through your veins."

Aunty Abebi ended the call abruptly then she instantly placed her phone on vibration. "I don't need this now." She exhaled and rolled her eyes.

Ade and Obinna, carrying a wooden podium, entered the children's church to find Deja alone, wiping away tears.

Obinna teased, "This one, Sister Deja is in the room alone like this." "With that kind of powerful testimony she gave, our former Chief Usher has turned into assistant Jesus. Who knows, maybe she's seeing angels ascend and descend like that oh." Ade chimed in and they both laughed.

"E be like say she dey pray oh." Obinna whispered .

Deja quickly stood up cleaning her tears then she forcing a strong demeanor, and faced them. "Hey guys."

"Are you okay? " Obinna asked, "It's like you're crying."

Deja shrugged, "Not really. I guess the dust got into my eyes while I was cleaning the chair."

Ade and Obinna exchanged skeptical glances as they dropped the podium at a corner.

"Your eyes are puffy." Ade observed and Obinna nodded, "I was going to say the same." "Can I get some seconds with Sister Deja?" Ade asked, Obinna shrugged and left.

Ade walked towards Deja then he slapped his hands free from dust, "I thought witches were supposed to have covens and meet in groups. This one, you're alone in this room... Did your colleague abandon you?"

Deja let out a dismissive laugh, followed by a scornful snort, "I just wanted to be alone." "Away from your colleagues?" He pressed on hoping to annoy her into speaking.

"Don't tempt me, Ade! I might just get initiated and come for your blood."

Ade feigned surprise, "So you were never initiated?"

Deja scrunched her nose,  "Really?" "Wow, all those years you acted like a witch, so you were not even an initiate." He teased,  "I thought we had an understanding this morning." She reminded and he smiled.

"What's your problem?" He asked and she shrugged, "Is it plastered on my forehead?"

Ade persisted, "Yes. I'm not leaving until you spill." "Ade, I'm fine." She answered rolling her eyes but he wouldn't let go. "Don't think I bought that bullshit about the dust, even Obinna doesn't. The guy just likes to mind his business."

"But as usual, you don't like to mind yours." She retorted and he nodded with a soft chuckle,"Guilty as charged."

Then they both chuckled.

"What is it?" He probed, "Has he broken up with you so fast?" "Whaaat??" She asked, "Ade, you're a mess! If not that we're in church, I would have said, screw you!"

"Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. Is that a yes to the break up?"

"No! And I still didn't tell you I have a man."

He hissed,  "Abegi! The way you were pumping with joy when I asked that question." "What if it's the Glory of God that's radiating in me." "Drop location now. Show me where you saw the glory?" He joked and she laughed.

"What's his name ?" He insisted and she blushed, "Vincent."

Ade smiled, "Now we're getting somewhere. What happened? Was there a fight? Couples fight all the time."

"When did you suddenly turn into a relationship expert?"

Ade scoffed, "What do you guys take me for? Someone that has never dated in his life?" He asked then he scoffed.

"What happened?"

Deja sat on a chair, she blinked back tears, pausing to collect her thoughts before explaining. "We just started dating yesterday and his cousin who knows that I had a..." She trailed off then she whispered, "A one night stand with his neighbor. I was drunk, I didn't know."

He nodded, "It's fine. I'm not judging you." "You're not?" She asked and he gave a nod. "Why are you not judging me? I spent all year acting like Miss perfect, if I'm you, I'll mock me."

Ade laughed, "Why should I laugh at a person's fall? I mean before this life we have, we've all fallen, I've broken a leg, I've had fractures, some of us have had multiple fractures. If God can be merciful enough to get his bandage and first aid kit to heal and fix us, what right do i have to mock you for being honest?"

"But then..." She trailed off and he cuts in, "If you were still half the bitch you were, I would have been all over your face mocking the daylight out of you but now all I see is a woman who is remorseful about her past deeds and sincerely wants something better. There's a difference."

Deja felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes as she gazed at Ade. "I feel like giving you a hug right now," she said, her voice filled with emotion.

Ade raised an eyebrow. "Ah han, why?" "To think I've always had this bad image of you." "Maybe I'm trying to boost my resume for when I get to heaven." His response was swift and unexpected.

Deja burst into laughter, taken aback by his wit. "You're mad," she commented chuckling.

"So, the cousin knows you had a one-night stand, and so?" He asked and she shrugged, "He's against the relationship and swore to destroy it. If he tells his mother, I'm scared the woman might just start having impression of me that she didn't have yesterday."

Ade scoffed, "Wait, is he mad?..." He asked, lifting his head up to the ceiling, "God forgive me oh, but who does that?"

Deja's voice was laced with understanding. "Anyone who wants the best for his family member, and the truth is, I completely understand. But I love Vincent, and with what God has already started, I'm scared something bad might happen."

Ade waved his hand dismissively. "Nothing bad will happen, except the guy is a Saint, even though he's a Saint, when he's not Saint Obi."

Deja chuckled and glanced at her phone. "Vincent sent me a message; he wants to see me, and Osasu will be there."

Ade's eyes narrowed, "Is the cousin the Osa...?" He trailed off, then hissed, "When you hear Osa in anybody's name, just know that the hormone in their body system must manifest. Like Osama Bin Laden."

Deja giggle, "What do you think he wants to talk about? The mistake?" She asked and Ade exhaled, his expression thoughtful. "I don't know, but I'm worried. The guy was angry yesterday. I don't know what to do. I can't face him."

Ade's face set in determination. "I know we're not buddies, but if you want a partner to stir up peace, trouble, or the both, feel free to ask."

Deja raised an eyebrow. "Don't you have better things to do?"

He grinned mischievously. "First, it's a Sunday; two, I want to see this Osa guy; three, I think I'll derive maximum joy from settling this issue the Ade way. And if your Vincent guy is going to choose his cousin's side, I'll have the pleasure of telling him it was good riddance to bad rubbish."

Deja laughed, "He's not bad rubbish. Vincent is...." She trailed off, biting her lips.

"Perfect in a way,"

"Awn, igbayen kor? (And so?) Ade teased. "I'll even call him ugly on your behalf, to soothe my anger. Something to pain him."

Deja chuckled, "He's not ugly. Well, I used to think he was ugly but now, it's funny how love beautifies everything."

"Let me be the judge of it!" He snapped.

Deja smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude toward Ade. "Will you really follow me?"  "Of course, as long as Bimbo will be coming along. It will be two against two."

A wide smile spread across Deja's face. "Why didn't I see this before?"

Ade raised an eyebrow. "See what?" "You'll make a good boyfriend." She complimented and he twinkled his eyes, "Try not to fall too hard."

Deja gasped, laughing. "Ade, I'm taller and older than you."

"And so, I don't like to brag, but my Husband material is about 10,000 yards."

"Get out!" She snapped and they both laughed.

Just then, Bimbo walked into the room. "It's either I'm having eye ache or rapture has taken place and we are the only ones remaining, cause why in the name of God will Ade and Deja be sitting in one room that didn't catch fire?"

Deja and Ade turned to her, chuckling at her question.

Aunty Abebi flipped through a thick document in front of her, her eyes scanning the pages with scrutiny. She needed to ensure she had all the facts straight on the case.

As she scribbled notes in the margin of her book, her mind raced with legal strategies and counterarguments. Her phone buzzed on the side table, breaking the silence, and she glanced at the screen with a hint of annoyance. A strange number flashed on the display, and she scoffed.

"Aisha, you've sunk so low," she muttered to herself, assuming it was her sister trying to sidestep her. "Using a strange number to call me bah?" She rolled her eyes, she had little patience for Aisha's dramatics, especially when she had more pressing matters to attend to – like winning this case.

With a deep sigh, Abebi answered the call, "You didn't have to use another number to call me, Aisha. See, I really don't want to have this conversation about your Father with you. In my opinion, if he's having a heart attack, maybe it's God punishing him for his sins. Face God directly, don't make it look like I gave his name to some herbalist and made him have an heart attack. My name isn't exactly Karma, it's Abebi, and that's Aunty Abebi for you."

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and for a moment, Abebi thought she'd successfully deterred her sister.

But then, a deep, smooth voice spoke up, sending a jolt of surprise through Abebi's body.

"Ababy is perfect for me." Emmanuel'a voice resounded.

Aunty Abebi's eyes widened as she realized she'd made a grave mistake.

Aunty Abebi rolled her eyes then she glanced at the phone number in regret.

Damn it!

Emmanuel laughed, "You weren't expecting to hear this Igbo man's voice okwaya?" He asked and she rolled her eyes again. She didn't say a word, she didn't hang up either.

She didn't want to. It felt good to hear his voice once again, a bitter truth she had to force down her throat.

"God definitely answers prayer," He said, his voice filled with sincerity. "The one request I asked God in church was to hear your voice. He really does answer prayers."

Aunty Abebi withheld her laughter, intrigued by his words.

"Imagine when the Pastor said, ask God for one thing. I didn't ask for money, as important as money is to any human, I didn't ask to win any case, I didn't ask to make it to heaven, I asked to hear you speak again. Because every moment I shared with you made me feel like I was closer to heaven, I thought I was in heaven until I woke up without you by my side. Even your voice is heavenly."

She arced her brow in disbelief and Emmanuel chuckled. "I'm sure you're probably squinting in disbelief, like what voice is he talking about? This same voice?" He chimed in and She placed her palm over her lips, holding back her laughter.

"Well, I trust you to disbelieve every compliment I make," Emmanuel continued. "I think one thing I miss apart from the voice is that look in your eyes when you want me to stop being me. Like, can you not be Emmanuel for today, why not Christopher or Oscar?"

He laughed at his own joke, while Aunty Abebi shut her eyes, fighting the urge to laugh.

"Feel free to laugh. It's not a crime," He chimed in.

This was the last straw cause she bursted intoa sharp laughter, almost like a sneeze.  It wasn't part of the plan; the man was a clown!

Emmanuel let out a snorty laugh, "See! Did you die?" He asked and she  rolled her eyes, still chuckling. "I just want to show my gratitude for the help you rendered in the Ukamaka case," He continued, his tone turning serious. "And I got the message from your friend Jennifer. Why didn't you call yourself? I didn't take the great Abebi for a coward."

Aunty Abebi rolled her eyes.

"The fact you're not hanging up probably means you miss my voice as much as I miss yours. I miss you, Ababy." He confessed and as incredibly as it sounds, she knew it was not far from the truth! She ended the call while streams of tears flowed down.

The phone rang again, but she hung up, unwilling to continue the conversation. When it rang once more, she answered, frustration and desperation evident in her voice."Don't call me back, Emmanuel! Is it so hard to see that we can't be?"

Instead of his voice, she heard Kilahi's warm greeting, "Good afternoon, Aunty Abebi."

In microseconds, Aunty Abebi's eyes shut in embarrassment as she checked the caller ID.

"Oh..."

"It's me, Kilahi. Good afternoon, Ma."

"Good afternoon, dear. How are you?" Aunty Abebi asked, still embarrassed.

"Better than you are, I'll say. From the way you snapped at me, I suppose you just spoke to him. Did you finally unblock him?"

"I don't want to talk about 'him', please." She requested with emphasis on 'him'.

"I think it'll help to actually talk about him. I was in a meeting with my future in-law and I felt led to call you. I'm sure you need someone to talk to."

Aunty Abebi's emotions overflowed, and she burst into more tears.

"I was always comfortable being without friends, I could stay weekends alone and not feel shitty or pathetic. Now I feel the need to lean against someone and just cry my eyes out. Maybe I shouldn't have let you into my life, maybe I shouldn't have proved myself as vulnerable to anyone. Imagine! Aisha thinks I'm being unfair because her father almost had a heart attack. He gave my mother one when he refused to acknowledge me, maybe... Maybe I shouldn't have gone to Ebonyi, maybe I shouldn't have met him."

She sobbed, her voice cracking. "I miss him, Kilahi. If I have to be sincere to myself. I miss him so much."

"And Professor Folorunsho?" Kilahi asked calmly.

Aunty Abebi groaned, still tearful."Ugh! The date was a disaster, I had to put up a lot of restraint not to slap the old man!"

Aunty Abebi scoffed, realizing she was just as old as Professor Folorunsho, "Look at this pot calling a kettle black.""You're not old Ma." Kilahi disputed but she disagreed.

"I am 45 years old."

"Sarah was 90 but God still showed up for her. My point is, age holds no significance to God. He is not bound by time or limited by our numerical years. Our God is ageless, working beyond the constraints of human timelines.What matters to Him are seasons and divine appointments. Everything unfolds in His perfect timing. So, even at 45, if Emmanuel is part of God's plan for you, He will bring him into your life in the right season.In fact, I believe God has already orchestrated your paths to cross."

Aunty Abebi rolled her eyes. "I'm not religious, Kilahi."n"I've noticed, Ma, but sometimes all it takes is a little faith to trust that God has a plan." Kilahi's warm tone was soothing.

Aunty Abebi's voice held a hint of amusement. "And you think God's plan includes Emmanuel?"

"Yes, Ma'am." Kilahi answered firmly.

Aunty Abebi's countenance turned sour, "Well, Professor Folorunsho proposed to me." "Really? That's really fast! Who proposes without even dating?"

Aunty Abebi chuckled. "I know, right?" "Did he go on one knee?" She asked and Aunty Abebi scoffed, "Can you imagine if he had gotten down on one knee? At 60, he might need oxygen to get back up!"

Kilahi laughed, "Toor, it's true. What if he kneels and ends up needing help to rise up?" She asked.

"What was your response?" She added and Aunty Abebi hissed. "Nothing but I have his ring with me, it's supposed to be a motivation to hasten my decision." "Ma, not like I'm trying to meddle, but I feel Professor Folorunsho might be a mistake."

"And Emmanuel isn't?" Aunty Abebi's asked, her tone was laced with frustration.

"Call it a weird nudging in my spirit."

"Emmanuel is not an option, I can't go to Ebonyi to start my life. I can't and he's the man, I can't impose on him. I am that kind of woman but I don't want to be that with him. He deserves better."

"You two can work things out."

Her frustration boiled over, 'How, Kilahi? How? This is the best option."

"Aunty Abebi, please don't make any rash decision yet. Hold onto the Professor's ring but don't do anything rash. Give me three weeks to pray about this."

Aunty Abebi scoffed, her tone laced with skepticism. "You can't be serious. You have a wedding to plan. I should be the least on your prayer list."

Kilahi persisted, her voice filled with conviction. "Give me till my wedding to pray about this, after my wedding, you can go ahead to do whatever you want. Even if it means saying yes to a man you clearly don't like. Deal?"

Aunty Abebi rolled her eyes yet again, "Deal. Now, enough about me. How's your day been? I heard you had a close call yesterday. I heard you were almost killed."

Kilahi laughed,  "Who said that?"

"Aisha."

The George's living room was a warm and inviting space, filled with the love and laughter of family. The walls were painted a soothing cream color, complemented by rich, dark wood furniture. African-inspired artwork and colorful textiles added a vibrant touch.

Seated on the plush, cream-colored sofa were Gbadamosi and Kilahi, side by side, with Gbadamosi's back against the armrest. Mrs. George sat opposite them, her hands gesturing animatedly.

Aunty Mabel occupied the adjacent armchair, while Mr. George reclined in his favorite recliner, positioned at an angle to the sofa. Uncle Adzer sat in a nearby chair, observing the conversation.

"Gbadamosi, I feel there has to be varieties, variety is the spice of life. There was this wedding I attended," Mrs. George began.

Gbadamosi shook his head. "Mom, with all due respect, no."

Mrs. George gasped, then faced her husband. "Daddy Gbadamosi, say something."

Mr. George chuckled. "It's not our wedding."

Aunty Mabel chimed in, "In Africa, it's actually our wedding."

Mrs. George's face lit up, her hands stretching wide in joyful appreciation. "Thank you, my dear! Tiwa ni! (It's ours!) It's our wedding and the first wedding I'll be planning after so many years. We need to make it perfect."

Gbadamosi's firm response was immediate. "No."

Kilahi leaned in, her voice gentle. "Choicest, you might want to consider Mom's opinion."

Gbadamosi turned to her, his expression unyielding. "My love, mom's idea is superficial."

Kilahi's eyes sparkled. "Let's just do it. It sounds brilliant."

Mrs. George raised an eyebrow, incredulous. "You haven't even heard it."

Gbadamosi snapped, "I'm sure it's a brilliant idea, let's just do it."

Mrs. George raised her nose in disbelief, "This one? He won't do it, once he has set his mind on something, it will take a hundred men to walk around him seven times and a trumpet sound so he can break."

She noted and everyone laughed. "Very difficult man!" She added.

"I wonder where I got it from," Gbadamosi answered sarcastically.

She shrugged, "Definitely not from me or your father."

Gbadamosi rolled his eyes, "We'll make that adjustment."

Kilahi smiled, "Thank you."

"Just that one. Only that one," Gbadamosi clarified.

Mrs. George cleared her throat, "What do you mean by only that one?" She asked, her mouth wide opened in surprise.

"Well, when I looked at the itinerary, I noticed that," Gbadamosi began.

"Mom. Just leave the order of service the way is it, Kilahi and I already went through it with the event planner and the last time I checked, you're not one," Gbadamosi said.

Mrs. George laughed hysterically, "I've planned more events in my lifetime than one Gen Z event planner."

He rolled his eyes. "Don't roll your eyes at me!"

"Mom! My point is, she's professional and besides, Kilahi and I already went through the itinerary and we didn't deem it necessary to add anything to it for now," Gbadamosi explained.

"What if your in-laws want to add something or an idea? The front you're putting on is one that automatically mounts an impenetrable fence and puts you in a position like that man that can't take a single suggestion," Mrs. George countered.

Gbadamosi shut his eyes in shame, "Mom."

He paused, slapping his forehead, then glanced at Uncle Adzer and Aunty Mabel. "It's not the way Mom thinks. Not like there isn't space for suggestions, just that all order of service has to end on or before 6:30."

"What if the father and daughter's dance takes more than the stipulated time allotted in the itinerary. You better wake up and realize you're not in London," Mrs. George cautioned.

"Even his church service does not end on time," Kilahi chipped in, looking away from him, and everyone laughed.

Gbadamosi peered at her playfully, "What? Did I say anything? I'm just trying to buttress Mummy's point. There can be some circumstance that can cause delay. Like my bestie's wedding, the original cake got ruined."

Mrs. George snapped her fingers, "God forbid my dear, that will not be our portion."

"There was a slight delay. Just like a regular tailor will add allowance to the clothes we sew, I feel it won't be a bad time to automatically assume that there might be a time extension during the wedding reception," Kilahi went ahead to explain.

"I completely understand where you're coming from. I don't want the wedding getting stretched till 7 pm thereabout then everyone will be exhausted and..." Gbadamosi trailed off.

His mother's laughter cut him off from making his point, "Everyone or you?" She asked, and everyone laughed in understanding, leaving him embarrassed. "Everyone will be exhausted right?"

"Shebi it's our exhaustion? Let's enjoy the party or are we complaining?" Aunty Toyin commented from behind, carrying a plate of fried plantain. She took her seat next to the couples.
"Abi?" Mrs George asked, "When did everyone's exhaustion suddenly became Gbadamosi's problem?"

"He should kukuma admit that he doesn't want to get too exhausted for the big night show." Aunty Toyin chipped in and everyone laughed.

"Jesus Christ!" Gbadamosi blurted out, "Aunty Toyin!" "Eh hen? Is it not going to happen that night?" She asked sitting close to Kilahi.

"It's even Kilahi that I pity, someone is ready to give you wotowoto."

Kilahi heart jumped then she sucked her lips glancing at Gbadamosi who rolled his eyes ias his lips busted out in an embarrassing laughter. "Now you guys are making her feel uncomfortable." "Uncomfortable or not, it will happen." Aunty Toyin commented then she brushed her shoulder against Kilahi.

"You had better not over dance that day. Save your strength to match his own that night cause..."

"Toyin!" Mr George snapped,

"Jesus Christ!" Gbadamosi blurted out, "Aunty Toyin!" He asked, his eyes wide with surprise, and she arced her brow repulsively, her lips curling into a sly smile.

"Eh hen? Is it not going to happen that night?" She asked, her voice dripping with sarcasm, and Kilahi faced her, her cheeks flushing.

"Aunty Toyin!" Kilahi whispered shamefacedly, as she fidgeted with her engagement ring.

"It's even Kilahi that I pity, someone is ready to give you wotowoto," Aunty Toyin mocked, and Kilahi's heart jumped. She sucked her lips, glancing at Gbadamosi, who rolled his eyes as his lips burst out in an embarrassing laughter.

"Aunty Toyin!" She laughed, her cheeks still flushed.

Aunty Toyin chuckled, "Kini? (What?)" "Now you guys are making Kilahi feel uncomfortable." Gbadamosi intervened.

"Uncomfortable kor, comfortable ni!!" Aunty Toyin continued, "It will definitely happen now." She brushed her shoulder against Kilahi, who was hiding a sheepish look.

"You had better not over-dance that day. Save your strength to match his own that night, cause..." Aunty Toyin trailed off, winking at Kilahi.

Kilahi's face burned with embarrassment. She smiled mischievously as she thought of their upcoming honeymoon and all the romantic moments they would share.

Gbadamosi's eyes locked onto Kilahi's, his gaze filled with affection and anticipation.

"Toyin!" Mr. George snapped, "We have not come to talk about our children's personal activities. Let's not make the couples shy. We're planning a wedding, not a honeymoon." He concluded and Gbadamosi smiled.

"Thanks Dad. Why is everyone thinking carnally?" He asked his father, who had broken into fits of laughter himself.

His mother cleared her throat. "We are sorry, Sir. We were not aware you'll be having a church service or impartation night on your wedding night." She answered, provoking everyone to laughter.

Aunty Mabel chimed in. "We can't overrule that fact. I mean the honeymoon is a service on its own and a different kind of impartation." She said with a smirk.

"Jesus!" Kilahi gasped, her eyes wide with shock. She couldn't believe her ears.

Sefa suddenly cleared her throat. "This conversation has transcended into plus eighteen. Parental guidance neglected." She looked at her mother, who quickly mouthed, "I'm sorry."

"I need to purge out what I've just heard," Sefa laughed nervously and walked out of the house. She sat on the stairs leading to the front porch, shaking her head.

"I think we've had enough excitement for the day. Let's focus on the wedding plans." Uncle Adzer suggested.

Sefa sat on the marble staircase at the front porch of the house, her back against the railing as she stared out at the green garden. As the afternoon sun shone on her face, her thoughts drifted to past memories she'd rather not revisit, stirring up emotions she thought she'd long laid to rest. Her eyes squinted slightly as she replayed the conversation she had just escaped.

Just as she was starting to feel overwhelmed, her phone buzzed in her hand. She smiled as she saw Ire's name flash on the screen.

"You sure have good timing," she complimented, her voice a welcome relief from her troubled thoughts.

"Is that a compliment?" Ire asked, his deep voice warm and teasing.

Sefa smiled, feeling a sense of comfort wash over her. "This was the call I needed."

"Good afternoon and Happy Sunday once again," Ire said, his tone cheerful.

"Happy Sunday, Ire. How are you? How was service?" She  asked, settling into the conversation.

"Mind-blowing as usual," He replied. "Are you fine?"

She hesitated, unsure of how to respond. "Yes." Her voice was unconvincing.

"You're not fine, Sefa. What's up?" He asked softly.

Sefa sighed, her shoulders sagging. "I don't know what's wrong exactly. Maybe it's because I just escaped a conversation about Pastor Gbadamosi's wedding night. These adults were joking about impartation."

Ire laughed. "Impartation? That's new."

She chuckled. "Verbatim, it was the exact word they used. I had to leave before the conversation got too graphic."

" Were you bored or bothered?" Ire asked.

She shrugged, thinking deeply about her emotional state during the conversation. "I was bothered, for a moment while they were joking around. I zoned out a bit"

His tone turned serious. "So, what's really bothering you?"

Sefa sighed. "I don't know. Maybe it's just the nostalgia. I started thinking about Teju and...you know. It almost feels like I miss it."

"Do you?" Ire asked.

She hissed and rolled her eyes. "I don't know."

"On a scale, how badly do you miss sex?" Ire pressed.

Her eyes dropped, then she whispered,  "There's a whole lot of regret attached to my old life."

"That wasn't the question I asked you," Ire gently reminded and she let out an exasperated groan,  "I can't answer that question. It's shameful."

"Shame the devil by being honest about your weaknesses," Ire encouraged.

"What happened to, let the weak say I'm strong?" "That applies too but even the strong sometimes need to go to God admitting their helplessness before a helpful God who can come through for them."

Sefa chuckled nervously, "You sure have your way with words."

Ire chuckled. "Another compliment; it's really a Happy Sunday."  "Shut up!" Sefa snapped playfully and he laughed.

"Do you miss it?" Ire asked again.

Sefa's eyes clouded, and she began to recount her past. "It was last December, when no one suspected me. Teju's mother was not home, and I had promised to spend every afternoon with him so he doesn't get bored. I do visit a lot of my friends in the estate, so it was hard for my parents to suspect or detect anything. Those visits progressed into my first-ever sexual experience. I shamelessly had sex; there was no remorse. His mother wasn't all that strict; it didn't matter where she was in the house; we'll still...." Sefa's voice cracked as tears began to fall.

Ire sighed. "For all I've sinned and fallen short. I have fallen short; I'm not going to pose as a Saint. I've been where you are at some point in my life, but I've learned to tap strength from God's strength. His strength is made perfect in our weakness, and His grace is ever sufficient for us. There's a limitless possibility to how we can stay unmoved by these desires, but we'll never tap into it without first subscribing to His strength and clicking on the notification box to get updates on how you can be even more empowered. It's a battle, Sefa, and I'm sure you'll win."

Sefa smiled, feeling a sense of hope. "You speak like Pastor G. Are you sure you're not a Pastor?"

Ire chuckled. "Well...." He trailed off, laughing, then he quickly changed the topic. "Yea, that reminds me. Have you gotten the contact?"

"Yeah... I tried giving them a call, but the number was unreachable."

"Oh. Just let me know if they finally answered. I have to go now."

"Sure." Sefa answered, ending the call.

Here's the elaborated dialogue with added details:

Sefa sighed and dialed the number again, her fingers moving deftly over the keypad. This time, it rang, but no one answered. She tried it again, and finally, a woman picked up.

"Halo!" The woman's thick Igbo accent echoed through the line, warm and rich.

Sefa's heart skipped a beat as she recognized the voice.

"Papa Chinecherem! Papa..." The woman yelled, her voice trailing off with a sigh. "Erm, the owner of the phone cannot carry the phone now, if you can call back."

Sefa's grip on her phone tightened. "Good afternoon, Ma."

"Good afternoon, who is this?" The woman's tone turned curious.

"Sorry, Ma, it's me Sefa," Sefa replied, her voice laced with nervousness.

There was a pause on the other end before the woman responded, "Sorry, you have dialed wrong number."

Sefa's eyes widened in surprise. "No, Ma, it's me Sefa, the girl your husband saved, the one who had no memory of where she was."

The woman's tone transformed from confusion to shock. "Eweh oh!!!" She screamed, her voice filled with joy. "Na your voice be this?"

Sefa smiled, relieved. "Yes, Ma."

"Ehya, how you dey now?" The woman asked, concern etched in her voice. "We no even hear from you sef since that day, but your sister call us, I think two weeks ago, or na last week."

Sefa blinked, taken aback. She didn't even know Kilahi was still keeping in touch! Her cousin could be unpredictable.

"I'm sorry for not calling, I've just been dealing with a lot," Sefa explained.

"Ehya! How you dey now? How body?" The woman pressed. "You sister say you fine now na why we no worry again."

Sefa took a deep breath. "Yes, I'm better. I got better there in Anambra. I realized I never got to thank you and your husband for what you guys did."

Lolo burst into laughter. "Na God you go thank oh! Don't thank us, it's God you will thank. It's not like this oh, we are hearing that they've used somebody's children for ritual. Is to thank God that use Papa Chinecherem to deliver you, if not for that, na who know where you for dey?"

The woman's words were a mixture of English and pidgin, but Sefa understood the depth of her gratitude.

"Thank you so much, Ma," Sefa said sincerely. "Where is your husband, Ma?"

"Him dey barf, he's not able to come to the phone now, but you fit call back oh," Lolo replied.

Sefa nodded, even though Lolo couldn't see her. "Sorry, Ma'am, I have a question to ask. I feel he's the right capacity to answer, but if you can."

"Ask! If I fit answer, I go answer." She encouraged.

Sefa took another deep breath. "Where was I found? What city or town or village was I found?"

The woman paused, her hesitation noticable. "Why you wan know?" "I just want to know, Ma. I feel it will aid the police with the ongoing investigation."

"Ah police kwa?"Lolo's voice turned cautious, "Erm, my pikin, e no go better make you no put police join this matter?"

Sefa scoffed, shaking her head, "Ma, people get missing almost day in day out. Even though it's not the same organization or group kidnapping people, but if there's a chance we can catch one and save lives, why not?"

Lolo sighed,"Hm! Na make you for preserve your life oh. This life na once we dey live am oh, God don give you second chance, why you no use am just do something. Just forget say this rubbish matter happen. Just forget am!" "Maybe this is part of the reason God kept me alive, so I can save these people. Ma, do you want to tell me or should I wait for your husband?"

Lolo sighed again. "My pikin, na your sake I no wan talk oh." "Ma..." "Na Ayamelum, that's the local government you was found. Papa chinecherem say e one forest side, like thick thick forest dey there. Na for there you come out from.  These people go dangerous oh, na lucky escape you use commot from there."

Sefa dismissed the warning, her focus on the information. "Ma, can you call the name again?"

"Ayamelum," Lolo replied, her voice firm.

Sefa's eyes locked onto the name, etching it into her memory.

Ayamelum....
Ayamelum..
Ayamelum.

Sewuese tapped her fingers on the table top, growing impatient as she waited for her friend in the  pizza shop. The aroma of freshly baked crust filled the room. There were people who had ordered for their family and friends while she was seated there like one mumu waiting for her friend.

Where's that yeye Susan sef? She asked within.

She rolled her eyes and pulled out her phone to call her. "Madam, what the hell?" Sewuese exclaimed, trying to keep her voice down. "It's been thirty minutes. If you weren't going to come early, you should have said so. I'm supposed to be in a meeting with the Kilahi' future family."

"Babe, calm down!" Susan's cheerful voice replied, followed by the sound of the call ending.

Sewuese looked up to see Susan, glowing in a vibrant yellow gown, black shoes, she sat down across from her with a bright smile, placing her black bag on the table.. Sewuese wasn't smiling and she laughed wickedly, "Your face is not even fine at all." "So you still have mind to laugh after keeping me waiting."

"I swear, it was Lagos traffic!" Susan apologized, holding up her hands in defense. "It's Sunday, and everyone's trying to get back from church. I'm so sorry."

Sewuese rolled her eyes. "You just made me miss a family meeting. I was supposed to be with Kilahi's in-laws.". Her  smile faltered for a moment before she recovered. "Oh, that's true! How's Kilahi? I saw her from afar last week, and she was literally glowing."

Sewuese snorted and danced with her shoulder, "That's what happens when you have God and a man in your life." She sings song.
.

Susan laughed, a hint of wistfulness in her voice, "God when oh! See as I don turn to God when gang? Who would have thought, right? Kilahi, of all people...I mean, Ada that used to call her all sorts of name, scar Queen, Tattoo without ink, where is she now? Is she not the one that was sleeping with your boyfriend? And one will think with all that banging body, there'll be something banging in her life, rather she's banging men that aren't her boyfriend. Ode!" Shesnapped and Sewuese gasped.

"Haba!"

" And now Kilahi is getting married before us, to Pastor Gbadamosi George, of all people! My dream man! Chei!"

Sewuese chuckled. "Wait, that's true! You used to crush on him."

Susan grinned. "Me that volunteered for last year's rehab camp, the man addressed the choir, e did not look at my face at all. Very focused man! Na your sister just catch like that. Feel free to call me one of the many disappointed women!"

As they laughed over it, Susan continued, "I and the girls met up last week and the only topic on our lips was Kilahi, Kilahi, Kilahi! How she moved from the bottom of the food chain with all those insecurities to being the upcoming first lady of Word Foundation church is one thing I can explain. The one that shocked me was that video they uploaded where she was giving gba gbos to that Katy what what that doesn't have a surname. I was shocked, Kilahi that if they're insulting her, she will just keep quiet and sometimes cry. Omo! God has worked on her! Truly what God cannot do does not exist. Did she join the 7 AM prayers?"

Sewuese laughed, "Why are always like this now Susan? God is not a man, He  orders our step in ways we can't explain. It's one of his ways of affirming that he's with us." She answered and her friend laughed.

"I know you've always been a motivational speaker but this one you're preaching, you don turn Pastor?"

"Idiot!" Sewuese hissed and Susan laughed even more.

Sewuese exhaled and yawned from hunger,  "Abeg come and order pizza and ice cream. I'm hungry.So, what's the emergency? You didn't call me here just to talk about Kilahi, did you?."Sewuese asked, Susan shrugged, looking uncertain. Sewuese quickly chipped in with a raised brow,, "Don't tell me you're pregnant."

"Haba now!"

"What have you done then?"

Susan sucked her lips in, guilt written across her face. "I'm sorry...I hope you can forgive me for what I've done."

Just then, a voice interrupted them. "Hey." Sewuese turned to see Jamal standing behind her, and her heart sank. She turned back to Susan, who quickly gathered her things and left, leaving Sewuese alone with Jamal.

"Please, just five minutes," Jamal begged, sitting down in the chair Susan had vacated.

Sewuese stood, grabbing her bag. "You deceived me."

Jamal reached out, his eyes pleading. "You wouldn't be here if she didn't. I needed to talk to you."

Sewuese shook her head, "I already told you off." "Sewuese, I love you." "See!" She exclaimed but he continued irrespective. " There's no one I love more than you. I know I said some pretty messed-up things the other day, but I did it because I was jealous and I wanted you back badly. Please forgive me. I'm miserable without you. My life is miserable."

Sewuese raised an eyebrow. "Newsflash, Jamal: I'm not." "Maybe you don't know yet."

Sewuese scoffed taking her seat, "I've never been more clear about anything in my life. With you, I was blinded and confused. I lived a life I wasn't comfortable with. With Sam, it's different." "The guy is not even in the country now. Long distance relationship, is that what you want to do? Do those kinds of relationships work these days?"

Sewuese shrugged, "It doesn't matter. We're engaged." "Las Las, he's going to keep you and get married to his kind." "Even though he does but I'm sure he won't, with him, I've experienced love than I did with you."

"That's why I'm asking for a second chance. A do over, I promise I won't cheat, I'll delete every female contact I have if I have to. If I cheat on you, call it quit forever."

"Jamal, there's no second chance with you. Don't you get it? I'm not going to plunge into that pool God pulled me out of. I was drowning in that so called relationship with you. You treated me like trash, you had no regards for me, it was always about the sex." "We'll reduce the sex then and talk more. You've always wanted us to talk."

Sewuese groaned and rolled her eyes.

"You really don't get it do you?" "Come on! Like he's not in for the sex too!" Jamal snapped and she scoffed then he blinked in disbelief when he noticed her reaction was obvious.

"Wait, you're not having sex?"

"No. Jamal."

"Maybe not now. But he's going to ask, they always ask."

"Like you did right? After you promised to wait."

Jamal shut his eyes, "We had good moments." "I had better with Sam without sex." She snapped and he scoffed. "I'm sure he's just deceiving you. How sure are you that when he comes back he'll get married to you? All these Americans break engagements every now and then."

"He's British."

"American, British, same clothes cut out from the same material. How do you know he's a good guy? It might be part of a game."

Sewuese laughed and he arced his brow offended by her laughter, "What's funny?" "This unnecessary jealousy. Sam is different." "How do you know he's not like you?" "Because he's obviously not like you, he has ticked more boxes more than you did through out those miserable years of being with you. No offense Jamal."

"You can't call those years miserable and expect me not to get offended."

She laughed rolling her eyes, "It was miserable Jam, there's no point getting offended. I'm the one who was put in misery, can you remember a single week that I didn't cry because of you?"

Jamal exhaled, "Because you're always doing things that piss me off." "Like inviting you to church, getting you that matching jersey, but you were angry at your football club at the time, or telling you that I was on my period, telling you I had stomach pain and could not come over to your place, telling you that I wasn't in the mood to have sex. Yes Jamal! I did a whole lot that pissed you off."

"It doesn't mean he's different too."

"At least he remembers the name of my siblings."

Jamal scoffed, "Anyone can know that." "Oya, What's the name of my brother?"

He paused in thought, "Um... It starts with a T, I know how we'll have arguments about it and I had to find a way to remember the names through their alphabet. It's, Thomas right? Wait, Timothy? I'm sure it starts with a T, it's a language name right? Your people have the worst kind of names, I can't seem to cram it."

"My elder sister, what's her name?"

"You don't have an elder sister."

"My cousin is my sister."

"Oh... it's Ki... " He groaned in fruitless attempt.

"What's the name of my little sister "

"Sherifat, It's sherifat right?"

Sewuese bursted into laughter, "Wow, it's not only Sherifat, it's Simiat. Gosh, you're funny. L" "Calm down, I'm just tensed. I didn't expect to be quizzed or put on the spot ." "What does my name mean?"

"I'm not from your place."

"I've mentioned it a hundred times, what tribe do I represent?"

Jamal scoffed, "Enough of the quiz." "What's my surname?" "I don't know!" He yelled attracting a few attention then he lowered his voice in a whisper, "I don't ..." He trailed off, "I don't know. I don't fucking know. Can we start again, I promise this time around I'll be more attentive."

Sewuese folded her arms with a smile, "One of the things I love about my relationship with Sam is the peace that comes with it, it's the right amount of wisdom and moral support and advice that I get. For the first time, I get to meet a man that cares about my future and what I want to do with my life. This isn't because he's a foreigner or anything, it's fate. It's just knowing you have someone you can lean on even though he's thousand miles away from me. Do you know what that means? Even his voice is like a shoulder I can lean on. It was never the same with you."

Jamal rolled his eyes, they were heavy with tears, "I love you Sewuese." "You had a horrible way of showing it." "I'll change." "Please do, I'll appreciate it if you do, but not for me, for the next serious relationship you're going to get into. I pray, I honestly  hate to sound like Kilahi right now but I think she's rubbing off on me, I pray that God helps you be the perfect man for your future wife." She lifted her handbag then she flashed a smile at him.

"Good luck Jamal." She answered leaving and his palm covered his face then slowly he brought it down to his lips and tears slowly dropped so he quickly wiped them off. For a minute, he didn't believe he was crying because of her but damn did it pierce his heart !

The sun cast a gentle glow over the patio, where Mrs. Coker, Manny, Temi, Alade, Tanimola and Hilary sat enjoying lunch and discussing Salome and her children. The atmosphere was relaxed, with the sound of laughter and clinking utensils filling the air.

"Who would want to sell her children's happiness for her own?" Mrs. Coker snapped angrily.

Temi and Manny cleared their throats in unison. "I know of one woman that year," Temi said, a sly grin spreading across her face.

Alade and Hilary burst into laughter, their eyes met. "You guys are plain mean," Alade said, chuckling. "They didn't even let her land."Hilary added watching Mrs. Coker's expression softened, then she glanced at Tanimola.  "I was blinded, I didn't know better. My greatest joy right now is just looking at my children and knowing they're happy. She literally pushed her daughters to get married to rich men. I can bet on it."

Hilary shrugged, her brow furrowed in concern. "When I think of it, Madam Tatiana has never been genuinely happy."

"Why will she be happy? I'm sure she's facing problems at home too," Temi snapped with conviction.

Manny's eyes widened, then he exclaimed, "Tatiana is the worst! That girl was up on Gbadamosi's face especially knowing that he was in London; she would hang on to any man that has money."

Mrs. Coker's gaze drifted towards Ossy, seated on the grass with her husband in the distance. Introspection crossed her face, "It took me 28 years to see this," she reflected. "Life has taught me to appreciate the little things, to face my fears, and accept whatever help necessary to be happy. I pray to God to open Salome's eyes to help her daughter get out of that marriage before it becomes too late. Let the scale that fell off my eyes fall off hers too."

"Amen!!" Everyone answered except Tanimola.

Hilary placed her finger on his palm, "Sorry, you must feel left out." "It's fine, I'm listening."

Alade scoffed, "I still don't understand why we're not reporting this to the police. It's clear the man beat up his wife till the point she lost her baby. "

Temi shook her head,  "I've seen this cases more times at the foundation. It will be their word against ours. If she doesn't step forward to report her husband, there's only little we can do."

Just then, Ossy and Rev. Coker approached everyone at the table. "Ndewoo!!" The Reverend exclaimed, waving at everyone.

Every face displayed various expressions, from curiosity to surprise.

"Dad, what's going on?" Temi asked, her eyes sparkling with interest. "Ask Ositadinma." He replied adding the correct intonation to the letter and all eyes focused on little Ossy who instantly got shy.

"I'm te...teach--ing Grandpa basic Igbo, for, for when Daddy finally meets my Mommy's people." He stammered through then he took a deep breath. "Futuristic Ossy, you're stammering, relax." His mother encouraged and they all chuckled.

"Call me Ossy the Igbo cheecha like our Yoruba teacher will say."

"Ouch." Manny groaned and laughed, "I hope you're learning Yoruba already." Mrs Coker asked and her son shot a knowing look at her, "Ossy is a fast learner but we're not going to dominate the Yoruba culture on him. Igbo is his first heritage and I feel there's a need to respect that." He said firmly and Hilary placed a hand on her back urging him to tone it down.

"Oh Sweetheart, I didn't mean to sound like I was imposing." Mrs Coker stated then she waved her hands, "Babe, It was a harmless suggestion. Everyone must learn the language of the particular territory he or she is. I suck in speaking Yoruba but at least if there's danger around, I know what sare (run) means." She chipped in and Temi smiled.

Ossy smiled nervously when he noticed the intense atmosphere, he quickly leaned against Mrs Coker, "G...Grrrandma just wants me to learn the language and I think it's fine. Am I not the one teaching Daddy and Grandpa? Why can't I learn? My school teacher said, learners are readers. My Yoruba teacher told us a story of a Calabar woman who heard people shouting Ina, Ina at night but because of Ina meant thief in her place, she locked the door while the whole building got on fire." He explained and everyone stared at him hooked on the story.

"A woman knocked on the door and told her, mama, Ina oh, ina oh. That was how Mama pushed her bed, all those wood bed, she pushed it and wedged it against the door." He paused and everyone laughed. It wasn't funny but the way his gesture and the way he told the story as though he witnessed the whole thing.

"When she re..realized it was fire, before she could remove the bed and unlocked all the lock, she was almost made human suya. It ..." He paused and continued, "It tells us the importance of understanding people's language. Shey I can have two heritage right? Igbo and Yoruba, if aunty Kilahi now teach me Hausa and Igede, I'll ... I'll just change my name to Mr Nigeria." He joked and everyone laughed.

Temi pulled Ossy close then she kissed him on the forehead, "Smart boy." "Right?" Manny asked, "He had to bring in the Ossifier effect." He added and Ossy flashed a smile at him.

Rev. Coker waved his hands again at everyone. "Odin mma oh everyone, odin mma (I'm fine)."

Ossy walked close to him then he whispered, "Grandpa, someone's supposed to ask Kedu first."

Rev. Coker sucked his lips, his eyes widened, "I'm trying to show my Igbo prowess." "I smell pride!" Temi yelled and everyone chuckled.

Manny smiled, his proud voice filling the air. "I know for a fact Ossy is a good teacher. Ossy, you had better charge them."

Hilary raised her brow at him,  "Don't put ideas in his head." A hint of playful warning in her voice. She glanced at her son who was beginning to run his fingers against his chin in deep thought.

It is finished! She said within, she knew her son was already giving it a thought.

Alade's shrugged, "What do I have to do to get on board? How many weeks is the language program? What is the curriculum like? Let's talk business."

Ossy's brow furrowed in thought as he paused, his curiosity getting the better of him. "What is curriculum? I've heard it from teachers, but I don't know. Is it like a job something like CV that they always use to get a job?"

He looked up at Alade and Hilary, his eyes seeking clarification. Alade smiled, impressed by Ossy's familiarity with the term "CV."

"Um, No. Curriculum is like a brochure that contains the syllabus for the..." Alade began, but his voice trailed off as he glanced at Hilary, realizing his explanation might be too complex for a seven-year-old.

Hilary noticed Alade's hesitation and stepped in, smiling reassuringly at her son. He silently sought her help, his expression asking, "How can I break it down?"

Hilary's eyes met Ossy's, and she explained, "It's like a scheme of work that lets the learner know all the topics he or she will be dwelling on during the language program."

Ossy's face lit up with understanding, and he smiled. "Oh.I'll work on it but first will be learning all the alphabets in Igbo and then we'll move to little greetings in Igbo."

Alade smiled, "How long will the program run and how much?" He asked and Hilary gasped, "Don't start putting business ideas in this boy's head."

Ossy charged to answer the question, "Well, the language program will be running for two weeks. For early comers, the form is only 50,000 naira; late comers will pay 100,000. But if you're 60 years and above, I'll cut the price." He glanced up at Rev. Coker, a mischievous spark in his eye.

"So, Grandpa will be owing me maybe 1,000 naira now."

Rev. Coker's surprise was met with laughter from everyone. "You're a natural."

Hilary rolled her eyes, a smile playing on her lips. "Apart from the fact he has an Igbo gene, five minutes with my colleagues at the workshop will do that to you. My girl, Zoe is a strategist."

"Anyone that wants to pay should see my PA." He joked and everyone erupted into another round of  laughter.

Vincent swung open the door to find Deja, Bimbo and a strange guy standing on his porch.

"Good afternoon dear! Good afternoon, Bimbo!" Vincent said, his eyes darting between the two women. He wasn't expecting Bimbo and the strange guy.

"Good afternoon." He said to Ade who waved in return while taking closer look at him, "Good afternoon." Ade replied then he whispered to Deja, "He's fine sha."

"Happy Sunday, Vincent!" Deja chimed in and they all walked in while Vincent shut the door behind them.  He had questions but he was convinced he'll understand in time.

"I didn't think Bimbo will be coming." He confessed, "Who is this?" He asked pointing at Ade.

"Call me Ade, Deja's... I don't know whether to say friend, it's a complicated relationship." He answered and Bimbo waved too, "We are here today as accountability partners." Deja playfully nudged Bimbo while rolling her eyes, "There were other ways you could have answered that question without making it sound that way."

She complained and Bimbo scoffed focusing her gaze on Vincent, "Well, I assure you, Bimbo, my intentions are pure. Besides, I told Deja my cousin was going to be around."

Bimbo raised an eyebrow, "Exactly why we're here. I don't doubt your intentions. Deja just went through a major setback and I don't want to see her plunged into it. If she wants to be intentional about her walk, she needs friends to walk with her and support her."

"Thank you for being that friend, Bimbo." He appreciated noticing how Deja scattered her eyes in search of his cousin. "Where's your mom?" "She's not back, she went out with Mercedes and her fiance." Vincent answered grabbing her hand.

"Okay.... Where is um...." She trailed off and Osasu dramatically rose up from the couch in the living and all eyes focused on him. Deja lets go of his hand instantly shutting her eyes in guilt, "Good evening." She greeted and Osasu gave a nod.

Ade glanced at Deja then he whispered, "Is that the... cousin?" "Yes." She whispered back. "And you're still greeting, you are very nice."

"Why are you now nervous?" Bimbo whispered. "I'm worried." Deja whispered and she hissed.

Osasu cleared his throat, "I thought it would be nice to let you guys just have your moment before interrupting."

"Interrupting what gan?" Bimbo snapped, "Oshey, Interrupter, your own have want to pass the fm signal in Ila-ro. Weldone Sir."

Ade glanced at the guy's arm, "I refuse to be intimidated by muscles." He spoke up and Osasu blinked, perplexed by the anger from two people he has never met before.

"Excuse me, have I have you guys before?"

Ade lifted his finger, "Osasu or Asiwaju, I know Deja, she can be too forward,too complicated, she didn't use to have sense and respect at some point in her life."

Deja cleared her throat, "What's your point?"  "The point it, just when it's looking like the window of heaven has finally opened up and an outpour of sense has decend into her head, one mountain has risen up to show power. I'm going to ask you the same question my guy Zerubabel asked one mountain, who art thou? Uncle, who art thou?" He asked and Osasu exhaled in defeat.

Bimbo picked up where Ade left off, "I don't know what you had in mind to interrupt, but I've come to tell you that if you think you can talk down on my girl and make her feel like she's not worthy of Vincent, Uncle, you should better think again. When pe (that) you're not assistant devil,"

"Osasu Bin Ladin." Ade chipped in.

Osasu lifted up a finger, but Bimbo quickly interrupted him. "It's not by man power, sometimes we need to have sense to access situations before claiming territory. With all these muscles you're gaining. Maybe you need to cut out on gym time and ask God to cut sense for ypu, cause it's not by ishan (muscles). Manpower without sense is senseless. Ah han! Because of a one-night stand she had, big whoop! Uncle, you now turn it into a barrier, I heard you almost did national protest yesterday, Kilode, from where to where, what did we carry, what did you throw at us?"

Ade continued almost immediately, "Even the Uncle that's talking, if we want to access him gan. I'm sure he has had one-night stands more than a comedian on a mic stand. How many hearts have you broken? Have many have you been judged for it?"

Bimbo hissed, "If we want to count the number of women he has done business with, one will begin to think pe, he's doing advert. Oya, as a man, swear that you've not had one-night stand before?" Bimbo asked, and Osasu sucked his lips. He couldn't respond.

"It's safe to say that Deja made a mistake, but if you're trying to pin it on her or cause a wedge in her relationship, and make her unhappy, then you've made a mistake, you know why?"

Osasu shrugged, "Because she has the most supportive friends in the world," he replied.

"Exactly!" Bimbo shot back.

Vincent had to intervened, "Guys, chill, Osasu didn't come to put a wedge in our relationship; he came for something contrary."

Bimbo turned toward Deja, a bit confused. "I'm lost, but yesterday Deja said..." She trailed off.

Deja was just as confused by Vincent's utterance. Osasu gave gentle nod,  "I'm not here for war; I'm here to apologize to Deja for yesterday. I could have put a call through but I thought the right thing to do was face to face, like I did yesternight."

Deja's eyes widened in shock, "I'm lost. Am I missing something?"

Bimbo shook her head. "Nah, this is suspicious." " You definitely have trust issues." Osasu assumed  rolling his eyes, "Says a guy who embarrassed my girl last night because of her past. Or was it not last night?"

"Touché," He replied.

"Ojebi (guilty)." Bimbo retorted with a long hiss.

"I admit I was wrong; I'm just here to apologize to your friend, Deja." Osasu admitted, dipping his hands into his pockets.

"Why?" Bimbo asked, she was all up in his face and Ade pulled her back, "There's a reason why it's called an apology."

"I want to know why? No oh, I'm asking, boya we have jumped into an alternate universe where yesterday does not exist. In such a short period, call it trust issues, but we need to know why the change of mind? The time frame from when he lashed out at Deja till now is barely 17 hours or so; then why the sudden change?" Bimbo pressed while all eyes suddenly flashed towards her.

"Why are you guys looking at me like I brought weapons and tear gas into a peaceful protest?" She asked and Vincent smiled still,  "Because you did."

Osasu lifted his hands in surrender, a wry smile on his face. "See, I didn't come for war."He dropped his hands. "I spoke to my guy Michael today, and he told me everything that happened and how he took advantage of Deja's drunken state. I'm sorry for judging her based on that without asking questions first."

"Oh," Deja muttered, "Yes. I can be judgmental like that sha." He chipped in.

Bimbo and Ade exchanged understanding glances.

Deja smiled, "It's fine; you were looking out for your cousin. I would have done the same if I were in your shoes," She answered then tears began to flow leaving Osasu feeling guilty.

"I already apologized now."

"It's not you; it's God." She replied, looking up. "There I was last night, thinking of how I'll get past this phase, and e paves a way seamlessly within....." She trailed off completely marvelled.

Vincent rushed to comfort her, holding her hands and wiping away her tears. "Hey, it's going to be fine."

Overwhelmed with emotion, she knelt down, hands lifted. "Thank you, Lord, I'll be really ungrateful to see past this miracle, I'll be really ungrateful to live in the happy moment without acknowledging you, the one who..." Her voice trailed off as she broke into more tears and fell facedown on the floor.

💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼

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