Please Vote and comment
🙏🏼

There's still no light oh!!!! Hence the slow update! 😩

I've been on this throughout the day! Wattpad has stressed me! 😩💔

Chapter 69

Unedited

Brenda watched an Egusi soup bubble and froth, the aroma filling the kitchen. "Stir it," Aunty Mabel commanded, her voice firm yet encouraging. Brenda hesitated, her eyes wide. "Isn't it going to burn me? It's boiling hot!"

Aunty Mabel raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "It's the British accent for me. Well, I can see that dear, but you need to learn. I know you've had a comfortable life, but part of womanhood is enduring pain. The sting you feel from this soup is nothing compared to the labor pains you'll experience someday."

Brenda watched, her brow furrowing in confusion. "Wait, how did we go from soup to... labor pains?" She asked, incredulous. The leap in conversation left her momentarily speechless, her imagination racing with vivid images that made her shudder.

"Wow, that was quite the switch," She added laughing nervously, trying to regain her composure.

Aunt Mabel chuckled softly, "I was making a point, dear. You see, I know you've had a comfortable life, but the truth is part of womanhood teaches you to endure pains."

Brenda exhaled, "Oh my God, how do women do it?" She exclaimed, her voice a mix of awe and fear.

"When the time comes, you'll understand," Aunty Mabel replied, placing a lid over the pot.

Brenda sighed dramatically. "I pray I experience it with Ugo by my side. I just pray for God to bridge the distance between us. I'm tired of being apart from a man I love because I haven't made clarifications."

Aunty Mabel chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Trust me, when the moment arrives, you'll be experiencing that pain all on your own. You'll wish he could feel it with you, but he won't."

Brenda nodded addressed, a wistful smile on her face. "I know, but having that person you love beside you must make it all worth it."

Aunty Mabel shrugged, her expression turning contemplative as she continued to stir the soup. "I suppose so. But when I was in labor, I was mostly just annoyed. My husband showed up at the hospital with a bag that wasn't even the baby bag."

Brenda burst into laughter, picturing the scene. "That's hilarious!"

Aunty Mabel joined in, her laughter ringing through the kitchen. "The shock on my face when the nurse came in to inform me."

Brenda wiped a tear of laughter from her eye. "I can just imagine the nurse saying, 'I'm sorry, ma, but your clothes couldn't fit the baby,' and you were like, 'What?!'"

Aunty Mabel shook her head, still chuckling. "Exactly! But you see, pain is an integral part of womanhood. It's one of those experiences that strengthens us. For instance, would you be here learning how to cook Egusi with me if your father hadn't kicked you out?"

Brenda smirked. "Definitely not."

"It was painful when he did that, but look at you now. You're learning something valuable. What we do with our pain matters. Do we let it overwhelm us, or do we rise above it?"

Brenda nodded thoughtfully. "True. I've never been intentional about cooking anything until I started dating Ugo." Just then, her phone buzzed, and she answered it. "Hey, Tommy."

Aunty Mabel gestured for her to step away from the stove, aware of the old wives' tale about answering calls near the gas. Brenda nodded and moved to the other side of the kitchen.

"Hey, Brenda. I'm at home. Can you come over? We need to talk about that stuff," Tommy said, his voice urgent.

"When did you get back?" she asked, curiosity piqued.

"Just today. I'm throwing a welcome-back party, and I have a few friends over. We really need to talk."

"Can we talk somewhere else?" she suggested, her tone cautious.

"What part of 'party' didn't you get?" Tommy chuckled, but there was an edge to his voice.

"Ouch! It was just a harmless suggestion," she replied, rolling her eyes.

"That came out wrong. I can't leave my party, but we need to discuss this ASAP," he insisted.

"Okay," she said reluctantly, then ended the call. She turned back to Aunty Mabel, who was now wiping her hands on a small towel, a knowing look on her face.

"Aunty Mabel, I have to go. Tommy just called. He wants to talk."

"Where?" Aunty Mabel asked, her expression shifting to one of concern.

"His house."

Aunty Mabel raised an eyebrow, skepticism etched on her features. "Do you think that's wise?"

"Come on, Ma. I won't have sex with him, even if I'm drunk," Brenda replied, trying to sound confident.

"That's not what I meant," Aunty Mabel said, her tone serious. "You dropped a bomb via text. You can't expect him to be happy with you. And now he's inviting you to his house?"

Brenda crossed her arms, defensive. "It's just two adults talking about our future and how we'll break the news of our disengagement to his family and the press."

Aunty Mabel sighed, her expression softening. "Maybe you should call Kilahi. You two can go together, or you can take Sefa along."

Brenda let out a laugh, shaking her head. "Ma, I'm fine. I can handle this."

"Take Sefa along," Aunty Mabel insisted, her tone firm yet playful.

"Ma," Brenda protested, but Aunty Mabel's expression remained resolute.

"I insist. Better agree before I involve my husband." She threatened, a teasing glint in her eye.

Brenda chuckled, realizing she was outmatched. "Fine! I'll take Sefa," she relented, rolling her eyes but unable to suppress a smile.

"Good choice," Aunty Mabel said, her voice lightening. "You never know what might happen. It's always better to have a friend with you." "I should probably have the Egusi first. It smells good."

Aunty Abebi wiped her hands clean in the kitchen after she heard a knock on the door. She opened it, only to see Emmanuel standing there. She gasped in horror and quickly shut the door, leaning against it.

"How in the world... Am I dreaming?" She muttered then she opened the door again, only to slam it shut once more completely overwhelmed by the reality of him standing on her front porch.

"What is he doing here?" She wondered aloud, then took a deep breath and opened the door for the last time.

Emmanuel had a grin on his face, "The elders always say a toad does not run in the daytime for nothing," He quipped.

Aunty Abebi gasped, "Did you just compare me to a toad?" "It's a metaphor." "I don't like it." She replied then she scoffed, "Did you think I was running?'

"If I didn't know better, I'd say you thought I was a ghost!"

"Why would I think you're a ghost?" She shot back with a shrug.

"Maybe because you broke my heart, and biologically, that's akin to death. This is the ghost of a broken-hearted man. Who knows, maybe I came to haunt you!" He said dramatically, clutching his chest.

Aunty Abebi stifled a laugh. "The right word was surprised," She replied, trying to regain her composure. "I was surprised." She added.

"I think the perfect reaction for surprise is your eyes shining and tripling in size like a thief's torchlight or you covering your mouth, not running like a coward."

"Excuse you!" She exclaimed, raising an eyebrow. She was offended by the comment.

"My people say a guilty conscience fears no accusations. You ran in like a criminal guilty of a crime," He teased.

"Oh please, what crime did I commit?" She asked, crossing her arms.

"Theft."

She blinked her eyes interested to know where he was going with his response. "You stole my heart and crushed it," He added, placing a hand over his heart in mock agony.

"I won't be the first, and certainly won't be the last."

"It's a crime and it's punishable under the law."

"Going by judicial precedence and citing various classic memoirs, I beg to differ." Aunty Abebi interjected with a playful grin, "If heartbreak were a crime, a bunch of us will be serving a life sentence! Let's not forget, heartbreak has been around longer than all you know ! Romeo and Juliet? That was a tragic case of star-crossed lovers! And don't get me started on Wuthering Heights-Heathcliff and Cathy practically invented the term 'toxic relationship'! If we're citing judicial precedence, I'd argue that heartbreak is a time-honored tradition like NEPA taking light or traffic jams to Lagos roads. - it's bound to happen, and you just have to deal with it."

"I demand a fair trial!" He declared, pretending to adjust his glasses like a judge.

She rolled her eyes, "If heartbreak were a crime, we'd need a whole new court system! We'll probably have the 'Court of Broken Hearts and restitute" and I can just imagine the jury-an ensemble of exes, all rolling their eyes and whispering, 'Not this again!'

Emmanuel laughed, "So, my dear Emmanuel, while you may have your legal jargon, I'll stick to my classics. Heartbreak is just a plot twist in the grand novel of life, and trust me, it's one that keeps the pages turning!" "Very well, Your Honor. I plead my case: Exhibit A-my heart, which you shattered into a million pieces!" Emmanuel gestured dramatically.

"Exhibit A? That's an invisible piece of evidence. I can't exactly see your heart." She shot trying to suppress her laughter.

"It's my word against yours."

Aunty Abebi leaned forward, unimpressed. "When has feelings or words ever won against actual facts in court?" Aunty Abebi challenged, raising an eyebrow. "You might as well be arguing that it snowed in Nigeria and we all danced on Ice. You need something concrete to back up your claims, not just a dramatic monologue."

Emmanuel crossed his arms defiantly. "Well, my feelings are valid!" He insisted, his voice rising. "You can't just ignore them because they don't come with a certificate of authenticity." He added sincerely, he took a deep breath, trying to rein in his frustration.

She let out a guilty sigh, that response definitely came from somewhere deep. "What do you want Emmanuel and how did you find me? I'm sure you didn't find my address on Google."

"I came to see you and demand an answer."

"What answer?"

"Why you left."

"I dropped a note."

"I want you to look into my eyes and say it to me, not act like a coward."

Aunty Abebi rolled her eyes, "I'm not a coward." "You ran away like one. I have to express my disappointment, i thought you were braver than that."

"You're pushing it."

"Are you going to let me in or are we going to stay here?" He asked and she shrugged. "Come in."

Sharon escorted a couple out of her cake shop, her heart racing with excitement. As she closed the door behind them, she turned back, a look of disbelief etched on her face. This was her biggest client ever. She had never landed a contract of this magnitude before, and it was all thanks to Muyiwa, who had put in a good word for her.

Returning to her office, she found Muyiwa leaning casually against her desk, a confident smile on his face. She walked up to him, wrapping her arms around his waist, feeling a rush of gratitude and affection. "Babe, I can't believe it. I've never charged that much before," She said, "I hope they won't change their minds."

"They're more than capable of handling it," He replied, his tone reassuring. "They were considering a more popular brand, but I had to stick my neck out for you. My neck is on the line here, you know."

"It might just be the perfect time to have you beheaded." She teased and he laughed, "If I get beheaded, how will I ever prove myself to you?" He asked and she chuckled.

"Just joking . I promise I won't disappoint you," She said earnestly, looking up into his eyes.

"I trust you won't," He replied, leaning down to kiss her softly. She melted into the kiss, feeling a warmth spread through her.

Suddenly, the door burst open, and Sharon's mother stormed in, clutching her lunch bag tightly. The moment was shattered, and they both quickly disentangled from each other, a wave of embarrassment washing over Sharon. She scratched her head, avoiding her mother's piercing gaze.

"Mummy Good evening." Sharon said, trying to sound casual.

"Wetin Musa no go see for gate?" Her mother snapped, her voice sharp. "Good evening, Ma," He greeted, attempting to diffuse the tension.

"What's good about this evening? You just managed to spoil the only thing that was good about it," Her mother retorted, thrusting the lunch bag toward Sharon. "I thought to bring you food since I was coming to this your area. That's Ogbono and fresh fish, just like you love it."

"Thank you, Mummy," Sharon said, her cheeks burning with shame. Sharon cleared her throat, "Mummy, I didn't know you were coming. No one informed me." "Do I have to tell your staff before walking into your office?"

"Mummy, that wasn't what I meant."

"So that you can pretend like you're not kissing a man after I have informed them."

"Mummy, it's not what you think..."

Her mother scoffed, crossing her arms. "It's not what i think, huh? So I'm blind that I can't see what's happening right in front of me shey?"

"Mummy, I haven't officially introduced Muyiwa to you, he's my boyfriend," Sharon said, trying to assert herself.

"Boyfriend? Be deceiving yourself!" Her mother shot back, her voice dripping with disdain. "The last time, what happened? Didn't he sleep with you and then dump you? Remember how you came crying because of this same human being? And now you have the nerve to introduce him as your boyfriend?"

Sharon felt her heart sink. "Mummy, please, it's different this time."

"My daughter, you haven't found a boyfriend. This one isn't ready to be anyone's boyfriend. He's obviously toying with your feelings, and when he's done having his fun, he'll dump you again. And you had better not come crying to this house, because the kain hot slap way I go give you ehn!."

"Mummy!" Sharon called out, desperation creeping into her voice, but her mother was already storming out of the office, "Mummy now!" She added.

Sharon stood there, her heart heavy with frustration and hurt. She turned to Muyiwa, who watched her with concern. "I'm sorry about that," She said.

"Don't apologize," He replied gently. "She's not wrong to feel that way about me. I did hurt you."

Aunty Abebi sat down on her plush sofa, a soft pillow resting over her lap, her fingers nervously tracing the fabric. Emmanuel sat across from her, perched on a chair. His eyes casted up on the delicate decor that spoke of her refined taste.

"You have a nice place," He complimented, his gaze sweeping over the elegant furnishings. Aunty Abebi shrugged, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

"Thank you. Should I offer you anything? There's no food, I was eating fruits in the kitchen before you..., but maybe a drink?" She suggested, her voice softening.

"I'm fine," He replied, his tone steady but his heart racing.

"What do you want?" She asked, her eyes searching his face for answers. "While the law may not recognize heartbreak as a crime, I think we can all agree that it should at least come with a hefty fine of apologies and a mandatory therapy session. I almost went crazy at some point. I thought maybe there was something I did wrong."

Aunty Abebi shook her head, her expression serious. "You did nothing wrong." "Then why did you leave?" He pressed on, leaning forward, his hands clasped tightly together. "Because what we had was a fairytale, a make-believe, and I've never really been the kind to pretend to..." She answered trailing off as she watched him pull out the crumpled break up note from his pocket, the paper worn from being held so tightly.

"Did you keep that?" She asked, her eyes widening in surprise.

"Yes, I did. I've always imagined showing it to you so you can do a full evaluation of this heart-piercing sword in the form of words. I want you to answer with all sincerity, Abebi. What part was a fairytale? Was it that day at the restaurant, when you came to see me, the date at Okposi Lake, or our first real date? Or the times we made love?" His voice was thick with emotion, and she fell silent, her gaze dropping to the floor.

"I want to hear you tell me that it meant nothing to you. Because it meant the whole world to me."

Aunty Abebi felt a lump form in her throat, tears threatening to spill. She couldn't lie, even though she tried. "It's just... You won't understand. It's beyond the feeling, Emmanuel. We just can't be."

"Why? Because you're rich and I'm poor? You think I'm an opportunist, right?" He challenged, his voice rising slightly.

Aunty Abebi scoffed, shaking her head. "You're not that person." "Then what kind of person do you see me as? A poor underachiever?" He shot back, frustration creeping into his tone.

"Stop it!" She snapped, her eyes flashing.

"Be honest here," He requested, his voice softening.

"Okay, maybe a bit," She admitted, her shoulders slumping. "But it wasn't just that. I'm five years older than you."

"Who's counting? I don't care even if you're ten years older. I love you, and that's all that matters to me," He confessed, his eyes earnest.

"And when your family starts trashing me for being older?" She paused, her voice trembling.

"Again, I don't care," He insisted, his determination unwavering.

"You care about your family," She countered, "You really do care about them even though some of them don't deserve it."

"Not enough to pick them over you. I'll choose your side any day and any time because I love you," He replied, his sincerity shot through the conversation.

"Your job? I can't move to Ebonyi to start my life, and I don't want to be selfish to request that you move here. I can be controlling, but I don't want to be that kind of woman to you. You deserve better. You deserve a sweet woman, a woman that will respect you." "You're that woman." He argued and she arced her brow, "I don't see myself as one. I'm not trying to debate on my inabilities but I want you to see reasons I left. I can't leave all I've built here, and you have your life there, your family." Tears streamed down her cheeks, and she quickly wiped them away, trying to regain her composure. "I can't make you choose."

"I've made my choice already. I don't mind relocating. I might not have a place to stay just yet, but I'll find a job. I know I won't be like all those classy lawyers, but I'm willing to make that choice for you. I can't live without you, Ababy. I've had the loneliest weeks since you left. I feels like you took a part of my heart with you. That part wants to stay here with you. That part doesn't want me to give up without a fight." He rose from the chair, kneeling before her, his eyes pleading.

"What if...?" She trailed off, uncertainty clouding her expression.

"I know you've said this before but you don't have to worry about children, if that's what you're scared of. I won't pressurize you."

"I don't understand why you're not worried about having offsprings." She felt a warmth spread through her as she thought of the life growing inside her, a secret she was yet to share.

"If God gives me, I'll be grateful, if I don't have, I have you and you're my world," He reassured her and Aunty Abebi laughed through her tears.

"You're crazy."

"Crazy for you."

Aunty Abebi shook her head chuckling at how cheesy his comments sounds, "Too cheesy?" He asked and she nodded respectively, "Should I add more cheese?" "Too much cheese gets the pizza all gluey and clumpy." She answered and they both giggled.

The weight of her emotions hung in the air, he could see a flicker of hope in her eyes. "Wow," She said, "You really mean that?" She added.

"Which part? The crazy for you part or the fact you're my world?" He asked and she chuckled, "That you'll stay with me whether or not I have children."

"Of course, did you think I was lying when I said the same thing in Ebonyi?" He replied, his gaze unwavering. "I would never want to pressure you into anything. I just want to be with you."

Aunty Abebi wiped her tears, a smile breaking through. "You're really something else, you know that?" "That's why you fell in love with me."

She scoffed, "Oh please! You know, It's your confidence for me. It has always been that confidence despite the clumsiness." "Tell me you're not in love with me and I'll just leave." "Really? What if after coming here, I end up saying no? Or end up telling you that I don't love you."

Emmanuel chuckled softly, the tension in the room easing slightly. "Expect an aggressive lawsuit then. I have exhibit B here." He lifted the note, waving it playfully. "Evidence of heartbreak."

She laughed heartily, "Oh wow, a ghost situation and a lawsuit? That's a handful. Geez, I wonder what to do." "You had better get yourself a ghostbuster and a good defendant," He teased and she exhaled, her laughter fading into a soft sigh.

"There's no point for the suit. I plead guilty to all offenses. In my defense, I wasn't in the right frame of mind when I wrote that thing. I was scared."

"The great Abebi, scared?" He teased, raising an eyebrow.

She nodded, her expression turning serious. "You were right. I was a coward for not having the courage to talk to you. I was running away from the truth."

"What truth?" He asked, leaning closer, "My feelings," She admitted in a whisper, "When you confessed that you loved me, I got scared. I felt it was too early, and I developed cold feet. I just didn't want to admit that I felt the same way too. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I thought I was doing you a favor but I've been miserable and unsatisfied since I got here. It was like i left something in Ebonyi."

"You left me." He interrupted and she laughed. "I'm sorry, I truly am." She replied pouting.

"What's your final judgment?"

Emmanuel sighed dramatically, a playful smirk on his lips. "Because you apologized oh, I'm trying to be a merciful judge because of your apology. You're hereby sentenced to a life imprisonment with this man who's so in love with you, with years of kissing, loving and managing him."

"Is that all?" She asked, her heart racing at the thought.

He leaned in, capturing her lips in a gentle kiss. She responded, her hands instinctively finding their way to his, guiding them to her belly. But then she withdrew, biting her lower lip, a teasing glint in her eyes. "Guess what?" She asked, "Um..." He stammered, his brow creasing in confusion. "I don't know."

She giggled, "Guess now." "What happened?" He asked, his concern evident.

"Can't you guess?" She teased, her smile widening.

"Is it the cloth you're wearing?" He joked, trying to lighten the mood.

"I'm pregnant!" She revealed, rolling her eyes playfully. "How hard can it be to guess? I was literally placing your hand on my tummy."

Emmanuel's mouth fell open in shock, his eyes glued to her stomach. "Did you just...?" "Yes," She confirmed, her heart racing with excitement.

"When...?" He asked, still trying to process the news.

"I just found out. I thought it was menopause," She confessed, laughter bubbling between them.

"Are you serious?" He exclaimed, his shock turning into joy. "Were you going to tell me?"

Aunty Abebi shrugged, a hint of guilt in her expression. "I haven't made the decision." "I deserved to know that I'll be having a child with you," He said, his voice firm yet gentle.

"I know, and I would have let you know. I wasn't sure how or when to do it. Thank God you came. It's so divine."

Emmanuel blushed, a shy smile creeping onto his face. "Something was pulling me up to Lagos; I never knew it was my baby."

"Really?" She raised her brow feigning offended, "I thought it was me," She teased.

"My two babies, Ababy and my baby," He said, rubbing her tummy with a tenderness that made her heart flutter. Her heart swelled with affection.

Then, in a moment of pure connection, he grabbed her cheek and leaned in, kissing her deeply. She melted into the kiss, feeling the warmth of his love envelop her.

Word Foundation Church

Kilahi sat in the warm ambiance of the auditorium, her pen poised over her writing material as she listened intently to her husband-to-be deliver a powerful sermon about yielding to God's will and following His instructions.

A gentle melody from the keyboardist on the altar accompanied Gbadamosi's words, creating an atmosphere of reverence and reflection. Yet, despite the uplifting environment, Kilahi felt a pang of guilt in her heart.

She tried to shake off the thought of Garba! Maybe if she had yielded, all this wouldn't have happened? Why did she even visit him? She blamed herself for being kind. How is she going to start telling Gbadamosi? Where will she start from?

"God may reveal His will to us," Gbadamosi continued, his voice resonating through the auditorium, "But the real question lies with us-are we willing to obey? When He gives us instructions regarding His will, we must ask ourselves: are we yielding enough to respond? Take the story of Samuel, for instance. If his ears hadn't been attuned to hear God's voice and if he hadn't chosen to obey, what would have become of him? He might have ended up as a merchant or a tax collector instead of a prophet." He paused, allowing the congregation to chuckle at the thought.

"It's not a laughing matter, really. We need to reflect on these things. Imagine if Samuel had dismissed God's call or ignored his mentor''s guidance on what to say. Eli told Samuel, Go and lie down, and if He calls you, say, 'Speak, Lord, for your servant heareth.'. Some of us are still acting like children in the house of God. We're not growing! There's a limit to how long you can remain a child; you weren't created to stay a child forever. It's time to grow up! Your ability to yield to God's leading is a sign of your spiritual maturity."

He continued, "I remember when I was about six years old, my mom would send me on errands to fetch something from the basement. I was living in London at the time, and I would be so focused on what she asked me to bring that I would recite it all the way down to the basement. 'Scissors, scissors, scissors.' But for some strange reason, I'd end up saying, 'Picture, picture' instead." He paused, and laughter erupted in the room.

"After that, I would forget what I was supposed to get! And then I'd be terrified to go back and ask my mom what the instruction was. Even though we were living that London life, my mom was still very much an African woman, and I knew a swift 'Igbaju' (slap) was waiting for me if I go back to ask." He explained, and the audience roared with laughter again.

"Can I see a show of hands if you've ever experienced something similar?" He asked, and the room filled with laughter as a few hands went up.

"Wow, I see only two oh wait, three hands raised. So, in other words, I played more than you guys, right?" He teased, prompting another wave of laughter. "Come on now, don't lie! We're in church, if rapture meets us here, let's know the people that will make heaven. How many of us forgot what we were sent to buy as children?" He asked, and several hands shot up, accompanied by more laughter.

"Now you're talking! I can't be the only one here," He said with a smile. "I pray my children don't play the way I did; it was a cause for divine intervention!" He chuckled, then cleared his throat, shifting back to the message.

"Some of us are like that spiritually. God gives us instructions, but distractions come along and take it all away," He continued, his voice filled with a sense of urgency. "I tell this story of one of my pastor friends-she has been here before, and she told her story. I think I've said it a hundred times."

"One hundred and one!" Someone from the media department yelled, breaking the momentary silence.

Gbadamosi chuckled, "Someone just corrected me; it's 101 times." Laughter rippled through the congregation, lightening the atmosphere.

"For those who haven't heard it, this is my 102nd time telling this story," He continued, a playful glint in his eye. "This pastor friend of mine, about seven years ago, we were basically the same age. She met me because we were prayer partners, and one day she came to me with this man. After he stepped out briefly to take a call, she turned to me, I could tell from her eyes that she was worried about something. She said 'I want you to tell me if this man is my soul mate,'."

He paused, shaking his head slightly. "Now, I personally don't like to get mixed up in those kinds of things. I believe in using your own gifts or relationship with God to discern whether someone is your spouse. You know, like when Adam told God, 'It's the woman you gave to me.'" He paused again, and the congregation erupted in laughter.

"I told her to pray to God about it. She looked at me, a bit frustrated, and said she already had. So, I asked her what God told her. She replied, 'God told me to wait.' But here's the thing, she was already thirty and felt the pressure of time weighing down on her. She couldn't wait. I remember saying to her, 'I hope you know this man has anger issues. I can smell boiling water from where I am.'"

The congregation chuckled again.

"She said that he's a disciplinarian, and it's nothing she can't handle.' But take note: there was already an instruction and a revelation given to her, and she chose to ignore it. Fast forward three years, she found herself stepping out of that relationship, barely escaping with her life. Now, she's an advocate for preaching God's will, sharing her story to help others.

Gbadamosi's tone shifted, becoming more serious. "It's only children who forget instructions. The moment I successfully completed an errand without forgetting anything, my mom knew I was growing. It's high time we move from being childish. Study the Word! That's where most of our guidance lies." He looked around the room, making eye contact with several members of the congregation.

"It's in the little things we do! Something as simple as Adesuwa, don't wear that dress it's revealing a lot. Don't invest in that business, it's a scam. We can't afford to let distractions pull us away from what God has instructed us to do. Just like my friend, we must be vigilant and attentive to His voice. When we ignore His guidance, we risk stepping into situations that can lead to pain and regret."

The pastor took a deep breath, allowing the weight of his words to settle in. "

"Don't wait to be spoon-fed by pastors when God has laid a banquet before you. Waiting to be fed is the slowest way to grow; how fast you eat depends on the person feeding you. If that person gets distracted, you're going to starve! So pick up the spoon and dine! Pick up that Bible and study! Study God's Word at will and learn to hear Him for yourself."

He paused, flipping through his Bible on the podium. "As a father, I feel immense pride when I hear my congregation talk about God's instructions to them. Just the other day, I wanted to share something with Brother Lanre, something God had placed on my heart, and he casually walked up to me and said the exact same thing! It was incredible, and I was proud of how attuned he was to God's voice. It's not a bad to think seek guidance from your Pastor but don't become too relaxed. Don't rely solely on the rhema that comes from the pulpit; there's so much more God wants to show you, so much He wants to feed you with-if only you would dine with Him."

He continued, "Many of us have preconceived notions about what God's will for our lives should look like, especially regarding relationships. We often envision it as a charming, handsome partner or the tall, dark, and handsome individual. But we limit God's plan by our own expectations, dismissing possibilities that don't fit our ideal physical standards, like someone who may be shorter or slender."

"Should I be honest ? While I was still praying to God about finding 'the one,' I didn't have those superficial expectations. I wasn't fixated on wanting her to be fair-skinned, beautiful, or have the perfect body shape." He paused, observing the congregation's reactions, and a ripple of laughter spread through the room.

"You guys are too focused on the physical!" he joked, eliciting more laughter.

"My prayer was simple: let Your will be done. When I was living in the world, my desires were different, and I secretly thought God would bring me someone as a form of revenge for the hearts I had broken in my past. But I was ready to accept whatever He had in store for me because after I gave my life to Christ, I stopped living for myself. It became about not my will, but God's will. And after everything, God's will for me turned out to be perfect." He glanced affectionately at Kilahi, who felt a warm flush spread across her cheeks.

Gbadamosi threw his head back and laughed, "Look at her, she's already shy!" The congregation erupted in laughter once more.

"So, remember, God's will might not always align with your own desires. Sometimes, His will may involve taking someone away from your life, and it may seem unfair at the time. But always hold on to that scripture that says the latter end of believers shall be greater than the beginning. The more you study God's Word, the more light you will receive, and what does light do? It clarifies your path, helping you to understand His will for you. Those things that seem too complex for your mind to grasp will begin to unfold through the Word!"

He continued passionately, "Just as GPS coordinates provide precise location information, scriptural verses serve as biblical coordinates that offer guidance, encouragement, and direction for life's challenges. When we lose our footing or find ourselves stuck in the potholes of depression and oppression, we can locate those life-giving words that propel us forward."

As the atmosphere in the church grew charged with anticipation, Pastor Gbadamosi raised his voice, his passion igniting the congregation. "Let us come before God and ask for the grace to yield to His divine instructions!"

At his words, the congregation erupted into fervent prayers, their voices intertwining in a powerful chords from the keyboardist.

"Brothers and sisters," Gbadamosi continued, his tone both urgent and compassionate, "This isn't just about morality; it's about our spiritual well-being, our economic choices, and our financial futures."

He paused,. "We have members of this church who have received specific guidance from God regarding their investments. They listened, they acted, and now they are reaping the abundant dividends of their faithfulness."

The congregation responded with a renewed intensity, their prayers rising like a wave, each person seeking clarity and direction in their own lives.

"Let us pray for the wisdom to recognize His voice," Gbadamosi urged, his eyes scanning the room, filled with hope and determination. "Let us ask for the courage to follow His lead, even when it challenges us. For in obedience, we find not just blessings, but a deeper relationship with God" With that, he bowed his head.

Sefa and Brenda trekked down the winding path to the estate gate, the evening air thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of music. Brenda let out a tired sigh, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I haven't trekked this far in ages. I miss my car. I hate that I can't even afford to order an Uber."

Sefa shrugged, her eyes scanning the street. "It was 12,000 naira, and with traffic, we might end up paying even more. It's just not worth it and it's not like the money Aunty Kilahi deposited in my account for your emergency needs will be enough come her and go back with Uber."

Brenda paused at the gate, the pulsating rhythm of music spilling out into the evening. She knocked, and a burly security guard opened the gate, his expression shifting from stern to welcoming.

"Good evening, Madam Brenda, shey?" He asked in a deep voice. Brenda nodded, a smile breaking across her face.

"Oga dey expect you," He said, stepping aside to let her in.

As Brenda walked through the gate, Sefa peeked into the lively scene. Men and women mingled, some dancing with abandon while others chatted animatedly, drinks in hand, smoke curling around them like a lazy serpent.

Sefa turned back to Brenda, her expression serious. "What's up?" "I think I'll stay outside," She replied, her tone firm.

"Why?" Brenda asked, her brow furrowing in concern.

"Nothing, really. Apart from the fact that I'm disturbed in my spirit, I just don't like the atmosphere. I certainly don't want anyone coming up to me and making advances. I'm still a fine girl, you know," Sefa said, a playful smirk on her lips. Brenda chuckled, shaking her head.

"Are you sure you'll be okay out here? You know it's not the safest."

Sefa pulled a small canister from her bag, holding it up triumphantly. "Apart from God," she said with a wink, "I've got this pepper spray. I'll show anybody pepper before they can even think about touching me."

Brenda laughed, the sound lightening the mood. "Just don't get bored, okay?"

"Don't take too long," Sefa replied, her tone teasing.

"I don't intend to," Brenda assured her, stepping into the vibrant chaos of the party.

Sefa roamed the front of the gate for a moment, then settled against the wall, finding a spot close to the pavement just in front of the garden. She watched the world go by, her mind wandering as the music thumped in the background.

Inside, Brenda approached the door, her heart racing slightly as she caught several seductive glances from the men milling about. She knocked, and a tall guy with tousled hair opened the door, a grin spreading across his face.

"Hey there, hottie," he said, his voice dripping with charm. Brenda forced a smile, feeling a mix of flattery and discomfort.

"Where's Tommy?" She asked, trying to keep the conversation focused.

"He's inside. You must be Brenda," He replied, stepping aside to let her in.

"Yes, that's me," She confirmed, her voice steady.

"I'm Jerome. Wow, you're even hotter in person."

"Thanks."

"You're this hot and Tommy never got the chance to get down with you." He whispered and she arced her brow, "What did you say?" She asked and he grinned, "I said, Tommy's been dying to see you," He whispered, his eyes glinting with mischief as he gestured for her to enter.

"Welcome to my humble abode," Tommy said, striding toward her, the familiar scent of his cologne mingling with the crisp aroma of champagne. "The only place I didn't bring you to, because I'm a gentleman." He winked, and she chuckled nervously, her heart heavy with the weight of the conversation they were about to have.

He handed her one of the glasses, and she accepted it, her fingers trembling slightly. "Can we dive into the conversation now?" she asked, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.

Tommy rolled his eyes playfully. "You can't even ask me how my trip was?"

"Sounds like you're trying to guilt-trip me," she replied, crossing her arms defensively.

"I'm not! You don't just dive into the deep end without checking the water first. You didn't even say, 'How are you? How have you been?'"

Brenda sighed, her resolve wavering. "How have you been?"

"Broken-hearted," He confessed, his smile fading.

She exhaled slowly, the weight of his words settling in. "The feeling is mutual. I'm just as broken-hearted too." She answered but he wasn't interested.

"My trip was fine, thanks for asking, anyway," He added, attempting to lighten the mood.

Brenda took a deep breath. "I can't wait for too long; I have to meet Sefa." "Who the hell is Sefa?" Tommy's brow furrowed in confusion.

"Are you aware Dad threw me out of his house?" She shot back, her voice rising slightly.

"It was supposed to make you come to your senses. Apparently, it's not working," He replied, a hint of frustration creeping into his tone. "Ouch. Tommy, I've never been more sane about my decision. I was insane thinking I could satisfy my dad at the expense of my feelings for Ugo. I love Ugo."

Tommy scoffed, shaking his head. "We could have had the best time traveling the world together." "Ten minutes spent with Ugo in any location is worth more than every meeting and conversation we've ever had," She countered firmly.

"Ouch," He muttered, the hurt evident in his eyes.

"Touché' , for calling me senseless," She shot back, her frustration bubbling to the surface.

"I didn't call you senseless," He protested, but she could see the uncertainty in his gaze.

"It was supposed to make me come to my senses. What does that mean? Can we just move on to the main agenda?" She held his hands, seeking some connection amidst the tension.

"Hey, you sound angry," He observed, concern etching his features.

"I'm elated," She replied sarcastically, forcing a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

"Why do you want to go back to him? This guy has nothing to offer you. I can buy that hospital," Tommy said, his brow furrowing deeper. "I have to admit, I was shocked when I saw your message."

Brenda sighed, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her glass. "I'm really sorry, Tommy. The truth is, I'm in love with Ugo. You remember him from the wedding, right? We were already dating while I was seeing you. I only did that because Dad insisted, and you assisted, so I heard. I have every right to be angry at you, but I know it's not about that. It was still wrong to keep him from you, and I need to make the right choice. He's the right one."

Tommy's expression shifted from confusion to hurt. "I really liked you, Brenda. I thought we had something special."

A pang of guilt washed over her as she dropped the glass again, reaching for the ring he had given her from her purse. "I know, and I'm truly sorry." She slipped the ring off her bag and placed it on the high stool between them. "I came here to talk about how we're going to tell your family. My parents already know. How do we tell the press?"

Tommy shrugged, a hint of resignation in his voice. "That shouldn't be hard. I'll tell them we had an irreconcilable dispute, and we'll tell the press that we realized we're not compatible. A broken engagement is, after all, better than a broken marriage, right?" He laughed nervously, and she managed a small smile.

"How are you so cool about this? You're being too mature about it," she remarked, genuinely surprised.

"What should I do? Cry ? Drink up? I'm not the enemy here; I've always been a cool guy. You're the one making it complicated," he teased, trying to lighten the mood, and she chuckled despite herself.

"Come on! It's not that deep," he added, his tone more relaxed. "We won't be the first to break off an engagement, nor will we be the last."

Brenda smiled, taking a sip of the champagne. "Thanks for understanding. I really have to go now."

"Wait a second, I need to clear something up with my friends," Tommy said, raising a hand to signal her to hold on.

"Tommy, there's someone I have to meet," She reminded him, glancing at her phone anxiously.

"Shh..." He placed a finger across her lips, a playful smirk on his face. "Just one second." He turned and walked away, leaving her momentarily alone.

Brenda lifted her phone to check for any messages from Sefa. A sudden wave of dizziness washed over her, and she blinked, her vision blurring for a moment. She glanced at the glass of remaining champagne in her hand, feeling a sense of unease. Without thinking, she dropped it onto the high stool.

Leaning against the wall, she quickly sent an SOS text to Sefa: Help, there's something wrong with me. She shoved her phone back into her bag, her heart racing. Suddenly her mind wandered off to God and how she would be saved from this.

Could it be a coincidence or has been drugged? She wondered.

"Oh, The Lord is shepherd, I shall not want..." She muttered.

Tommy returned, concern etched on his face, he could see her muttering. "Brenda, are you okay?" He asked, his voice laced with worry.

"Wait... what did you put in my drink?" Panic crept into her voice as she looked at the glass, realizing something was terribly wrong.

Tommy's lips curled into a smirk, a glint of something dark in his eyes. "Just a little something to help you see things my way. A love potion, perhaps?" He chuckled, but the sound was devoid of warmth, sending a chill down her spine.

"What do you mean? This isn't funny, Tommy." Her heart raced as she took steps away from him. He advanced, closing the distance between them. "You think you can just walk away after everything I've done for you? You're the first woman I'll spend money on without getting to sleep with her. I mean I respected your so called values but not anymore. Do you know about the donation I made to your father? Let's just say I called you here to collect."

Brenda's breath caught in her throat as the gravity of his words sank in. The room spun around her, and she felt trapped, the walls closing in as she realized the true nature of his intentions.

"There are people around, you possibly can't do this." "Oh I'm in full swing, the music is loud, my friends are here. No one will notice you scream and even you do, no one can save you."

"God can. Yea though I walk through the valley...."

He laughed interrupting her, , "You say?" He asked then he hissed, "Fucking joker!" "If my father catches you." "All your father cares about is money. All I have to do is pay him and he'll personally book a room for the next one. What do you think you have against me? You walked into my party, you had consensual sex with your fucking fiance. Who's going to arrest me? Don't you know who I am? Oluwatomisin fucking Badmus. My parents have more power than yours put together so there's nothing you can do."

Brenda's eyes darted around the room, searching for an escape, but there was nowhere to run. The dizziness intensified, clouding her thoughts. She tried to stand firm, but her legs felt like they might give way at any moment.

"You're not going anywhere," Tommy said, his voice laced with a sinister edge. "You'll stay! I won't be cast aside so easily."

She pushed him trying to make a run for it and he pushed her and she hit the side of her forehead on the stool then she sank on to the floor, Tommy stood over her, his figure towering, blocking out the light.

"Please, Tommy, don't do this, this isn't the way to fix it." She felt powerless, her body betraying her as it succumbed to the drug's influence.

Sefa called Mrs Ogunmolu, "Good evening Ma. I need your help, sorry that I'm not exchanging pleasantries with you. It's an emergency."

"Sefa, are you okay?"

"I'm went out with my new roommate. She went out to call off her engagement officially with her ex. She went inside but I stayed outside the house. She just texted me to help her. I don't know what's going on but I'm about to go in and Incase anything happens."

"Sefa, don't go in."

"She needs help. I don't know what's going on."

"Exactly why you need to stay put. Send me an address, I'll make calls right now. Don't do anything stupid." She exhaled texting her the address then she knocked on the gate and the security opened, "I want to go in."

"Nobody can enter again."

"What?"

"I just receive orders from my boss. No one can enter or get out till tomorrow."

Sefa scoffed, "That's crazy, Brenda in there. She didn't intend staying the night." "Maybe she didn't tell you she has arrangements with my boss."

Sefa scoffed, "You're joking right? I was waiting outside here when." She didn't conclude when the man shut the gate at her..

"Jesus Christ! Help me Lord, think think think Sefa, what are you going to do?" She pulled out her phone then she went live.

"Hello everyone. Good evening, it's me again. Please share this video, I'm about to announce something. I'm currently within the neighborhood of Arit Fusho housing Estate, I repeat Arit Fusho housing Estate and my friend just walked into this building behind me to talk to one Mr Tommy. I received a distress text message from her saying help. She is not till out and now the security is here saying no one will be allow in or out until tomorrow. That wasn't part of the agreement. Please share until the right authorities find out. If there's any police station around this place, they should come and save my friend Brenda Arolowo. That's the name, yes! Brenda Arolowo is inside. Please share!" She announced in tears.

Nancy stood in front of the mirror, her reflection a haunting reminder of the life she once knew. She wore a gown that felt foreign against her skin, and as she slipped into a pair of jeans, she felt the fabric cling uncomfortably to her legs. Layering on a baggy pair over it, she hoped the extra material would shield her from the world-and from him. She was tired of the way he looked at her, tired of the way he touched her, and most of all, tired of pretending everything was fine.

As she sat down, her gaze fell to the red mark on her neck, a stark contrast against her light-toned skin. It was a cruel reminder of the last time he lost control. Her cheeks were darkened, not just from lack of sleep but from the weight of her despair. She was exhausted from the makeup she used to cover up the bruises, both visible and invisible.

Suddenly, the tears flowed freely. "Nancy, what kind of life is this?" she whispered to herself, her voice trembling. "Just end it already. What's so hard about jumping out the window?" She walked toward the window, the cool air brushing against her skin as she opened it wide.

"My baby is dead. I can join her," she murmured, staring down at the ground below. Just as she contemplated the leap, a sharp knock on the door jolted her back to reality.

"Who is it?" she called, her heart racing.

"Open the door," came her husband's voice, slurred and menacing.

Panic surged through her. She glanced down, contemplating whether she could make that jump. But the thought of him touching her again filled her with dread. With trembling hands, she approached the door, her heart pounding in her chest.

"What took you so long?" he barked as she opened it, his bloodshot eyes glaring at her. The stench of alcohol and drugs wafted into the room, suffocating her.

"I was... I..." she stammered, pointing aimlessly behind her, searching for an excuse.

"What are you doing in this room? This isn't your room," he snapped, stepping inside with an aggressive swagger.

"Yes, I... I thought I could use a rest here," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Why don't I take it with you?" he said, a sinister smile creeping across his face.

Nancy shook her head vehemently. "No. Baby, not tonight."

"What did you say?" His voice dropped, a dangerous edge creeping in.

"I said not tonight! You can't come back all drugged up and expect me to just... expect me to run throughout the night, I'm a human being, I'm not fucking machine! Ogini? (What?) What do you want from me?" she snapped, her frustration boiling over as she tried to shut the door.

He pushed against it, nearly breaking her wrist. "Ouch!" she gasped.

"Is it me you're talking to like that?" he growled, his eyes blazing with fury.

"Baby, I'm sorry. I'm just angry. I don't like when you come back like this. It doesn't look good on you," she pleaded, trying to defuse the situation.

He slapped her hard across the face, and she gasped, the sting radiating through her skin. "So I don't look good, right?" he sneered.

"I didn't say that!" she protested, her voice shaking.

"You want to be a bad wife, huh? Don't worry, I'll give you the exact punishment you deserve," he said, his hands moving to unbuckle his belt.

"Please don't do this. I'm begging you," Nancy cried, her voice breaking.

He lunged at her, and she scrambled to escape, but he caught her by her natural hair, yanking her back with a force that made her scream. "Ah! Jesus, help me! Mummy!" she cried, desperation flooding her voice.

"Since you're proving to be a stubborn fly," He hissed, dragging her toward the top of the staircase. With a sudden, brutal shove, he pushed her down the stairs.

Time seemed to slow as she tumbled, her body rolling from the top to the bottom, each impact sending shockwaves of pain through her. He stood frozen at the top, disbelief etched across his face. "Fuck, what did I just do?" He whispered to himself, the gravity of his actions crashing down around him.

Emmanuel walked into the room, laughter bubbling up as he clutched a bottle of water in one hand. He had just come from the kitchen, he was dressed casually in a snug white singlet and a pair of boxer. Aunty Abebi, wrapped in a bedsheet that clung to her curves, was perched on the edge of the bed, her phone pressed to her ear.

"Do you even cook?" He asked, "I was thinking of whipping something up but I realized..."

She raised a finger to signal him to hold on, and he immediately bit his lip, realizing he had interrupted her."I'll call you back, Prof," She said, her tone light yet firm as she ended the call.

"Sorry about that," Emmanuel apologized, his cheeks flushing slightly. "I didn't realize you were on a call."

"It's fine," She replied, "That was a friend-Professor Folorunsho. He wants to marry me."

Emmanuel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Wait, what? He proposed?" "Yes," She confirmed, her expression serious yet playful. "I still have his ring. It's supposed to help me make a decision, but I haven't given him an answer yet."

He paused, processing her words. "So, are you going to say yes?"

She shrugged, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "He's 60 years old and has grown children. It's a practical choice." "Ah, so he's older than you," He teased, a smirk creeping onto his face. "That's your perfect dream man with the right age! Plus, you wouldn't have to worry about kids."

Aunty Abebi laughed, playfully tossing a pillow at him. "You think you can just tease your way out of this?" "Are you really going to say yes to him?" He pressed, "Didn't I just say yes to you?" she shot back.

Emmanuel flopped onto the bed, positioning himself just before her, their faces inches apart.

She reached for the water bottle he had been holding. She unscrewed the cap and took a long sip, the cool liquid glistening on her lips.

"You know, I could use some hydration after all this exercise." She said, her voice playful as she drank and he tickled her, "Yes exercise." He teased provoking her to laughter.

After quenching her thirst, she placed the bottle on the bedside table. "I have a date with him tomorrow," She added waiting to see his reaction.

"How many dates have you had with him?" He asked, trying to mask the sudden tightness in his chest.

"A couple," She replied, her gaze steady. "Really?" He said, feigning surprise.

"I thought he could help me get over you!" She admitted, her voice softening.

"Good thing it didn't work," He said, a hint of relief washing over him. Aunty Abebi leaned closer, her lips brushing against his in a gentle kiss. "Not even the slightest bit," She confessed, her eyes locking onto his, revealing the depth of her feelings.

In that moment, Emmanuel capturing her lips with his in a passionate kiss. She responded eagerly, her hands finding their way to the back of his neck, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened.

Kilahi stepped into Gbadamosi's office, and he greeted her with a warm smile. "Hey, beautiful." "Hey," She replied, managing a smile despite the turmoil inside her.

"That smile looks a bit forced. Who are you trying to impress?" he teased, and she chuckled softly. "Amazing message by the way," She complimented, and he grinned.

"We're learning from the best," He said playfully.

Kilahi frowned, crossing her arms. "You're just whine-ing me bah?" "Toor," He replied, and she burst into laughter. "Did you just say 'Toor'?" She asked, amusement dancing in her eyes.

"What's up? Please, sit," He invited, gesturing to the chair across from him.

Kilahi exhaled deeply, shaking her head. "I can't sit right now." "Why not?" He asked, concern creeping into his voice.

"I've messed up," She admitted, her voice trembling slightly.

"Choicest, what do you mean?" He asked, genuinely puzzled.

"I did something really stupid," She confessed, her eyes welling with tears.

"I still don't understand." "You know how sometimes the Holy Spirit gives us instructions, but we ignore them? That's exactly what happened to me today."

"What happened? You're scaring me," He answered, leaning forward, his expression serious.

"Promise you won't be angry," She pleaded. "What happened?" he pressed, his heart racing.

Kilahi burst into tears. "Okay, erm... So today is Garba's birthday. He invited me, but I declined. I was talking to Aunty Abebi, and she mentioned that he got shot. So, I went to visit him." She paused, wiping her tears.

Gbadamosi chuckled lightly. "There's nothing wrong with visiting a sick person. Kilahi, you have a kind heart. I understand you're trying to keep your distance, but it's just a visit. I won't hold it against you."

Kilahi pouted, tears streaming down her face. "But then we were talking, and he started confessing his feelings. I told him I loved you. Then he said, 'Look into my eyes and tell me you truly love Gbadamosi.' I stupidly looked into his eyes and told him, and then... then he kissed me."

Gbadamosi shut his eyes, a whirlwind of emotions crashing over him. Jealousy surged within him-Garba had beaten him to kissing her! Anger flared at Garba for always pulling the same stunt. Disappointment washed over him at Kilahi's naivety.

"Say something. Choicest, please say something," she begged, her voice trembling.

But he remained silent, grappling with his feelings.

She clasped her hands, desperation in her eyes. "Please forgive me. I swear I didn't know."

"Say something," she urged again.

"What do you want me to say?" he finally replied, his voice strained.

She shrugged, "Anything. That you're angry, that you're disappointed-anything! I can't believe this is happening on our wedding week. Are you going to call it off? Please don't! I love you. I didn't know he was going to kiss me, I swear! This naivety is killing me."

Gbadamosi remained quiet, his heart heavy.

Kilahi wiped her tears. "I'll just go then since you don't have anything to say." She turned to leave, but he gently pulled her back.

She looked up at him, her eyes searching his. "You don't want to say anything?" "Because I don't know what to say. Look, I won't lie, I'm angry, Kilahi." "At me? I know I messed up, but I don't know what I'd do without you in my life," She sobbed.

"Garba keeps doing this, and it's just frustrating. I wish I could give him the punch he deserves, but all I can do is pray for him to get some sense. And yes, I'm jealous too-he stole my kiss! That was supposed to be me kissing you on Saturday. I was supposed to be the first man to kiss those lips, and he had to take that from me. But it's fine."

"It's not fine," She insisted, shaking her head.

"My love, it is fine."

"No! It's not what you think," She interjected shyly. "He didn't kiss me on the lips; I turned my face before he could. It was just a peck."

Gbadamosi sighed in relief. "You should have said that sooner." "You thought it was something else? I could have legitimately broken his head and asked God to forgive me afterward," She replied sincerely and he laughed softly.

"I can't picture you breaking someone's head," He said, shaking his head in disbelief.

"There's always a first time for everything. The doctor would have had to bandage his head. He can't just steal a kiss that doesn't belong to him and expect to get away with it. I would have shown him that he's a thief and I'm the rightful owner," She declared, her eyes fierce.

Gbadamosi chuckled, "Technically, on Saturday, I'll be the owner." "Technically the lips is on my face so it's mine." "We'll be Co-owners then," She noted, a smile breaking through her tears.

"I was just so upset that he did that. I was kind enough to visit him, and he had the audacity to kiss me. I gave him the benefit of the doubt, and he took advantage of it. I don't think I can trust Garba again. I feel so foolish and naive. I'm sorry; I feel like a cheat."

He smiled gently, "It's okay. I'm relieved he didn't kiss you fully, but even though he did, I'm not getting married to you because you haven't kissed a man or because you're a virgin. It's because you're God's perfect will for me and I love you Kilahi."

"I love you too, Choicest," She confessed, a sense of relief washing over her. He sighed, moving back slightly to give them some space, and she laughed softly in realization.

"How is Garba doing? With the gunshot and all." He asked and she arched an eyebrow, surprised. "I can't believe you're asking about him," She replied, her phone buzzing with a call from Sewuese. "Hey, Sewuese."

"Go online, Sefa is live. I think something is wrong with Brenda," Sewuese said urgently.

"What?" Kilahi replied, her heart racing as she exchanged worried glances with Gbadamosi.

Tommy stared at Brenda, who lay unconscious on the bed, completely unaware of her surroundings. Her chest rose and fell gently, but her face was pale. A tight knot formed in his chest, not of love, but of a bitter, twisted hunger. As she laid pale and unresponsive, the rhythmic rise and fall of her chest were the only sign of life. He told himself he was owed, that she deserved this, that she had pushed him too far. He told himself he was owed, that she deserved this, that he was getting his share of every dime he spent on her and her father.

He took off his shirt and tossed it aside, the top landing carelessly on the floor.

Just then, a loud knock echoed through the room, jolting him from his thoughts. He turned toward the door, his heart pounding. "What now?" He muttered, frustration bubbling to the surface. He opened the door, his brow furrowed in annoyance as he faced his friend, Jerome who was clearly agitated. "Look, I really don't want any disturbances right now," He said, trying to keep his voice steady.

Jerome leaned in closer, lowering his voice. "Wahala dey," He muttered, his eyes darting nervously. "Someone just sent me this. It seems Brenda brought a friend. The girl is outside there making a scene."

Tommy's irritation deepened. "Get the guard to handle it," He replied tersely, already feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on him.

His friend shook his head, a hint of panic in his eyes. "She's live on Facebook," He said, thrusting his phone into Tommy's hands. The screen displayed a flurry of comments and reactions, the number of viewers climbing rapidly. "She's not going to stop until we bring Brenda out."

Tommy's jaw clenched as he stared at the screen, the realization hitting him like a punch to the gut. "Shit! Is that really the number of viewers?" He exclaimed, his voice rising in disbelief. "Looks like this girl has a bit of a fan base and it's not looking good. She's calling the police, we need to find a way to get that babe out without anyone knowing."

His friend glanced over at Brenda, who was still in bed, her disheveled hair spilling across the pillow. "There's only one way out. We can't let her out in this condition," Tommy said, rolling his eyes in frustration. "This is a disaster waiting to happen." He added.

"Tommy, we need to do something fast," His friend urged, his voice laced with urgency. "If this keeps up, it's going to blow up in our faces."

He ran a hand through his hair, pacing. "I know, I know," He muttered, trying to think through the chaos. "But what can we do? We can't just throw her out there looking like that."

His friend sighed, glancing back as if expecting it to burst open at any moment. "We need a plan. Fast. Otherwise, this whole thing is going to spiral out of control."

The atmosphere was filled with tension as the crowd gathered, anxious onlookers and stern-faced policemen, the sound of incoming police van blaring siren sound. Sefa, her heart racing, went live again, her fingers trembling slightly as she adjusted the camera. "Hey everyone, I'm back. Sorry, I ran out of data," She said, her voice shaky but determined. "The police are here. You can hear the sirens, right?" She lifted her phone, angling it to capture the scene unfolding before her.

The sight of the officers, clad in dark uniforms, was reassuring. "Brenda is still inside," She added, her brow furrowing with worry.

Suddenly, a policeman stepped forward, raising a megaphone to his lips. His voice boomed through the air, authoritative and commanding. "Listen up! If you can hear us." He echoed against the loud music from the building.

"We don't want to assume this is a hostage situation. Bring the lady who walked in out, or we'll be forced to break in and arrest everyone in there! And no, we are not bluffing."

The security guard reluctantly opened the gate, fear etched on his face, visibly shaken by the threat, he raised his hands in surrender. "I'm not in charge! I was just told to close the door! I was just following my boss' orders." His voice trembled as he spoke, eyes darting nervously between the officers and the crowd. The policemen marched into the building.

Sefa exhaled deeply, her chest tightening as she stared into the camera, trying to maintain her composure. She glanced at the comments scrolling on her screen, her heart sinking at the words of concern and disbelief.

Don't worry, everything will be fine. 😩

Nigerian police get this kind action? E be like say I dey watch film.

Sure say no be set of one movie you dey so? 🤣😂

We are praying for Brenda.🙏🏼

Sefa bit her lip, her anxiety bubbling to the surface. "Thank you, Ade, but I'm really worried!" She replied, her voice cracking slightly. "I'm just waiting for them to bring Brenda out. How can you come here with someone and they don't want the person to leave?"

She glanced at more comments coming in.

'Sure say the babe never die so?' A random comment trooped in .

Sefa's eyes widened in horror. "God forbid!" she exclaimed snapping her finger instinctively.

Moments later, the tension reached a breaking point as several men and women were rounded up. They were herded to sit on the ground outside the gate, the police maintaining a tight grip on the situation. Sefa's heart raced as she scanned, searching for any sign of Brenda.

Her breath caught in her throat when she saw two policemen emerged from the building, and between them, they carried an unconscious Brenda. Sefa gasped, her hand flying to her mouth in shock. "Aunty Brenda!" She screamed, her voice piercing through the chaos.

With a quick swipe, she ended the live video, her heart still racing then she pushed her way through the crowd, her heart pounding. "Is she okay?" She asked, her eyes wide with fear as she approached the police van.

One of the officers turned to her, his expression serious. "We think she's been drugged. We're taking her to the nearest hospital."

"Can I come with you?" Sefa asked, desperation lacing her voice. She reached out, her fingers brushing against the cold metal of the van.

Temi emerged from the bathroom, her peach-colored robe flowing gracefully around her. Alade, propped up against the headboard, couldn't help but grin at the sight of her.

"I'm something, aren't I?" She teased, her voice sultry. "I wear peach, but when you cut me open, there's a whole different flavor waiting inside."

Alade pretended to ponder her words, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. "Hmm, let's see... this is a tough one, you're my beautiful wife," hie replied, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Temi climbed onto the bed, inching closer to him, her playful demeanor intensifying. "Really? You think so?" She asked, her voice dripping with flirtation. Just as the moment thickened, her phone buzzed insistently on the nightstand.

"Ignore it," Alade urged, his tone light but laced with a hint of disappointment.

She chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Let me just check and dismiss whoever it is. It's probably nothing important."

"Who calls at this hour?" He asked raising an eyebrow.

She rose from the bed, her robe swaying as she moved. "That's exactly why I need to check. Ever since I got married, only emergency calls come in at this time," She replied, her voice tinged with concern.

As she reached for her phone, the call ended just before she could answer. She glanced at the screen, her brow furrowing slightly. "It's Nurse Tee," She said, her tone shifting to one of apprehension as the phone began to ring again.

Alade watched her intently as she answered the call, her expression turning serious. "Hey, Tee, what's up?" She asked, her voice steady but laced with unease.

"Wahala," Nurse Tee replied, her voice heavy with concern.

"Wahala like how?" Temi pressed, her heart racing.

"Well, they brought Mrs. Salome's daughter, Nancy, to the hospital. She was in a bad condition. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I think she's gone," Nurse Tee said, her words hanging in the air like a dark cloud.

"Jesus Christ!" Temi gasped, her hand instinctively covering her mouth as shock washed over her. She turned to Alade, her eyes wide with disbelief.

Gbadamosi gripped the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles white as he navigated through the evening traffic. Beside him, Kilahi tapped her legs restlessly, her anxiety visible. "She's going to be fine," he reassured her, though he could feel the tension radiating from her. "They already brought her out."

Kilahi sighed, her voice trembling slightly. "I know. I just can't shake this feeling of worry."

Just then, her phone buzzed, breaking the heavy silence. She glanced at the screen and answered the call. "Hey, Sefa! What's up? Where are you?" "The police are taking him to Crimson Hospital, just a few blocks from where the incident happened," Sefa replied, his voice steady but laced with urgency.

Kilahi turned to Gbadamosi, her eyes wide with concern. "Crimson Hospital? Do you know the place?"

Gbadamosi nodded, his expression serious. "Yeah, I know it. We'll be there in no time."

"Okay," Sefa said, relief evident in his tone. "Just hurry."

As she hung up, her phone buzzed again. She glanced at the caller ID and answered without hesitation. "Hey, Ugo." "Kilahi! Where's Brenda? I assume you have some idea," Ugo's voice came through, frantic and demanding.

Kilahi took a deep breath, trying to keep her own panic at bay. "You saw the video, right?" "Yeah, but where is she? Is she okay?" He pressed, his worry palpable. "She's at Crimson Hospital. We're heading there now," She replied.

Temi stepped into the hospital lobby, her heart racing as she spotted Tatiana and Mrs. Salome seated together in concern and disdain. She tightened her fists, feeling a surge of anger as she approached them.

"Where's Nancy?" She demanded, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.

Mrs. Salome scoffed, her tone dripping with condescension. "You are a very stupid and spoiled brat. Didn't your mother teach you to greet your elders? I know your mother lacks respect, but.." "Please, Ma," Temi interrupted, her patience wearing thin. "I didn't come here to exchange insults. I just want to know if Nancy is okay. I received a call about her."

"She's fine. Now, you can leave," Mrs. Salome replied dismissively, waving her hand as if to shoo Temi away.

Temi exhaled in relief, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "Thank God. I thought... I thought something terrible had happened." She pressed a hand to her chest, trying to calm her racing heart. "I'd like to wait for her."

"Family members only," Tatiana interjected, her voice cold and unyielding.

Temi scoffed, her anger bubbling back to the surface. "Family members, huh? Where were you two when Nancy needed help? You just sat back and let her suffer!"

Tatiana rolled her eyes, her expression one of disdain. "Temi, I will not accept this nonsense."

"Shut up, Tatiana, before I slap you silly! Are you out of your mind? Don't push me, because I'm this close to losing it!" Temi shot back, her voice rising.

Tatiana's eyes widened in disbelief. "How dare you speak to me like that?" "How dare I? Didn't she call you today? What did you do? You silenced her! All she needed was a shoulder to cry on, but you two neglected her cries. She was in an abusive marriage!"

"No! You shout as if you lived in that house with them. Don't say things you don't know. There's nothing abusive about the marriage; my daughter simply fell down the stairs!" Mrs. Salome insisted, her voice rising defensively.

Temi narrowed her eyes, her voice dripping with skepticism. "She fell down the stairs, or did her husband push her?" "She fell!" Mrs. Salome insisted, her tone sharp.

Temi turned to Tatiana, her expression incredulous. "Is that the lie you're sticking with? That she just fell? You two are pathetic!" "I'm not going to sit here and let you insult us. My mother is not your peer, and she told you Nancy fell. What right do you have to counter that?" Tatiana shot back, her voice trembling with anger.

"And where is that excuse of a husband?" Temi pressed, her gaze piercing.

Mrs. Salome swallowed hard, the tension in the air thickening.

"Temi?" Gbadamosi called out from behind, his voice filled with surprise. Temi turned to see him and Kilahi approaching. "What are you doing here?"

"Good evening, Ma," Kilahi greeted politely, though her eyes darted between the three women. "Hey, guys. What's going on?"

"Brenda was involved in an incident. We don't know the full story yet," Gbadamosi explained, concern etched on his face. "Is that why you're here?"

"No. Is she okay?" Temi asked, her heart racing again.

"Like I said, we don't know the full gist yet. The police brought her to this hospital," Gbadamosi replied, his brow furrowed.

Temi blinked, confusion washing over her. "Police? I don't understand."

"Maybe later," He said, his tone gentle but firm. "What about you? Why are you here?"

Temi exhaled, her voice trembling slightly. "Nancy was rushed here in bad condition. I even heard she was dead. I came to confirm, but these nonsense family members said she's fine." She shot a pointed glance at Mrs. Salome and Tatiana.

Gbadamosi and Kilahi exchanged worried glances, the weight of the situation settling in. Tatiana felt her heart break at the sight of the two couples, a pang of jealousy twisting in her chest. She wanted to roll her eyes but restrained herself. "Good evening, Ma," Kilahi greeted Mrs. Salome, who forced a smile in return.

"Good evening," Mrs. Salome replied, her voice strained.

"Good evening, Ma. Good evening, Tati," Gbadamosi said, his tone neutral. Salome responded, but Tatiana remained silent, her expression unreadable.

Gbadamosi shrugged, trying to lighten the mood. "We have to find out where the others are." "No wahala, just keep me informed, okay?" Temi said, her voice steady but laced with urgency.

"Keep me informed about Nancy too," Gbadamosi requested, his eyes searching Temi's for reassurance.

Temi nodded, her heart heavy with worry as she watched them leave.

Just then, the doctor approached Mrs. Salome, who stood up, her expression shifting to one of anxious anticipation. "How is my daughter?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.

"She's stable for now," The doctor replied, his tone professional yet compassionate. "However, she suffered some significant injuries from the fall. We're running tests to assess the extent of the damage." "What kind of injuries? Is she going to be okay?" Temi interjected, her concern evident as she stepped closer.

Salome batted her eyes at her, she didn't understand why she had chosen to meddle in her family business.

The doctor glanced at her, not sure who she was, . "She has some spinal fractures, a concussion, and some internal bruising. We're also monitoring her for any signs of internal bleeding. She'll need to stay here for observation and treatment for the next few days."

"Can we talk to her? We want to let her know we're here for her," Mrs. Salome pleaded, desperation creeping into her voice.

The doctor shook his head gently. "I'm sorry, but she won't be having any visitors for now. She needs all the rest she can get."

As the doctor walked away, Temi turned back to Mrs. Salome and Tatiana, her expression resolute. " She deserves better than this."

Tatiana crossed her arms defiantly. "You don't know anything about our family." "Maybe not," Temi shot back, "But I know enough to see that you both failed her when she needed you most."

9:30 pm

Gbadamosi, Sefa, Kilahi, Sewuese, Ugo sat at the hallway waiting for new development on Brenda.

Mrs Arolowo and Mr Arolowo walked in. "Good evening Ma, good evening Sir." Everyone greeted. "Good evening everyone, where's my daughter?" Mrs Arolowo asked, "She's currently unstable." Gbadamosi answered. Mr Arolowo felt uncomfortable, he was before two men he didn't like, Gbadamosi and Ugo!

"Unstable, ki lo s'omo mi? (What happened to my child?) What's the doctor saying Ugo?" She asked and Ugo rose up, "Ma'am I don't work here but my doctor friend simply told me she's unconscious, maybe when she wakes up, she'll be fit enough to tell her what happened. If you ask my opinion, I'll say she was drugged."

Mr Arolowo scoffed with a tightened fist, "The idiot had the nerves to drug my own daughter, my own princess? He doesn't know who he just messed with." He said typing on his phone.

"He's finished! Where are the doctors, they better have a well documented drug test carried out and a rape test to determine if they touched my daughter. Oh, Tomisin better hope to God that he didn't cause I Anifowose Arolowo will make his life a living hell."

Mrs Arolowo gazed at her husband with utter irritation, "Who's fault is it?" "My dear, this is not necessary right now. This is not the time to dish blames." He answered, "I should serve you a bowful of it. Whose fault is it that our daughter is in this mess?"

Kilahi rose up and Gbadamosi lifted his hands, he wanted to tell her to keep quiet but it was too late already, "Please Ma, this isn't the time for this, we should be prayerful." "And who asked your opinion, boyfriend stealer?" Mr Arolowo snapped and his wife gasped, "How can you say that to her? She's not the root of your problem!"

"It's because of her Gbadamosi left Brenda" "The same Gbadamosi you've been trashing. Newflash, Gbadamosi was never Brenda's own so stop putting your regret and anger on the poor girl!" She snapped turning towards Kilahi.

"I'm sorry my dear."

"I'm sorry for interfering" "It was thoughtful of you and you couldn't be more right. We should be prayerful but this man just had to play innocent." She turned towards her husband with so much hate in her eyes.

Kilahi cleared her throat, "Brenda will be fine Ma, God doesn't forsake his people." She answered.

"Ma, you can seat here." Ugo suggested and she waved her hands, "I wouldn't do that, where will you sit?"

"It's fine Ma."

Mrs Arolowo smiled, "You're too kind." She said turning towards her husband, "While some people are just so blind." She sighed sitting on the chair.

Kilahi glanced at her seat then she pointed at her, "Sir, you can sit." "I don't need it." Mr Arolowo gritted his teeth answering a call.

Sewuese dragged Kilahi, "Aunty sit abeg!" She whispered, "Them dey beg person to sit down?" "I just said I should be nice."

Gbadamosi chuckled softly then he whispered to her, "I was going to tell you not to bother. He has a personal vendetta against me." "I realized." She whispered back.

"Oh you had better pray to God, if you have one that the results come out clean cause I'll ruin your son and that's a promise and a threat! Tommy abi whatever his useless name is will be living in the confine of prison walls for a very long time!"Mr Arolowo snapped ending the call then he paced left and right.

"My princess! Oh my princess!"

The nurse approached them,a mature woman in her mid- forties. She bowed his head to Mr Arolowo recognizing him, "Good evening to you Sir. It's good to meet you Sir, you might not recognize me but..." "Is my daughter awake, I'm not here to fraternize," He instantly cuts him off. "Oh, yes Sir. The patient is awake but only her parents will be allowed to see her."

Mrs Arolowo shook her head, "I'm sure she'll want to see her friends more than her parents." "Ma, we can't allow this number." The nurse argued, "Trust me when I say, she'll want to see her friends than her parents. Her father should not be allowed into that room or she'll get angry."

Mr Arolowo cleared his throat, "Ignore my wife, she clearly doesn't know what she's saying. She's shaken by this whole thing." He answered scratching his face then he approached the nurse, "Let's say, If I want everyone in the room with her, I'm sure you can do something about it right?" He said giving her a look and she laughed bowing his head.

"Sir, I'm only a nurse but I'll see what I can do. Besides, they can stay until the doctor comes back."

Brenda sat on the edge of the bed, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, knuckles white against the pale blue fabric of her hospital gown.Brenda's hands trembled in her lap, a cold sweat formed on her brow. Her memories flooding with the darkness she had just escaped. Echoes of hurried footsteps and muffled voices drifted in from the hallway. She leaned against her mother's breast, whose fingers combed across her natural hair. "Sorry my baby. Mummy's here okay?"

Ugo's heart raced as he approached the bed, he noticed her eyes were red and puffy from crying.

Kilahi turned to her, eyes wide with horror as she noticed the black spot marring Brenda's forehead.

"Did he do this to you?" Kilahi asked and Brenda's heart raced, and she swallowed hard, feeling the lump in her throat. "He pushed me and I hit my head. I shouldn't have gone there, I shouldn't have. Even when I told your Mom that I was going out to meet Tommy, she was skeptical about it. I just wanted to end things officially with him and give him back the ring."

Ugo tightened his fist. He wished he could see Tommy and give him a real punch. "Did he touch you?," He asked and Brenda looked up to him then she shrugged, "I don't know, I got unconscious but I don't think he did. I don't feel like he did. I should right? God wouldn't allow it happen. I mean even though I walk through the valley of the shadows of death, he's with me. That was all I could recite within me."

Sefa sniffled looking up at the ceiling and Sewuese held her close.

Dr. Michelle, a middle-aged woman with a gentle demeanor stepped in with, reviewed the results on her clipboard, her brow furrowing slightly as she processed the findings. "Brenda," She began, her voice soft yet steady then she looked at the crowd, "We don't accept this number of visitors. Who let you guys in?" She asked and Mrs Arolowo cleared her throat.

"I needed to see my friends." Brenda answered, "They were worried about me."

"Okay. I'll like to talk to the patient alone." "They can stay." Brenda answered sharply. "No."

"We can leave." Kilahi stated and Brenda gave a stern look, "The only reason I feel safe at the moment is because of them, please say whatever you want to say," She snapped.

"I understand this is an incredibly difficult time for you, but I want to explain the results of the examination." She began, standing across from Brenda with a comforting demeanor. "I know this is hard to hear, but it's important for you to understand what we found."

Brenda looked up, her eyes glistening. "Please, just tell me." "During the examination, we looked for signs of trauma and other evidence," Dr. Michele explained, her tone gentle but direct. "I want you to know that the tests showed no evidence of penetration-specifically, we found no semen."

Brenda felt relieved, "I still feel traumatized."

Dr. Michele leaned in, her expression softening. "You are absolutely right. This doesn't change the fact that you experienced something incredibly traumatic. The absence of semen indicates that penetration did not occur as feared, but it does not diminish the violation you felt or may be feeling at the moment. Your experience, your pain, is still valid."

Brenda swallowed hard, her heart racing, "I swear, I thought for a slight moment that he was going to..." "Of course you did," Dr. Michele acknowledged. "The emotional and psychological impact of such an event is profound, and it can linger long after the physical evidence fades in cases where there are any. It's essential to recognize that healing is a journey, and it's okay to seek help along the way. I strongly advise that you seek help."

Brenda felt a tear slip down her cheek, and she wiped it away quickly, embarrassed.

Ugo exhaled loudly, "Brenda, we'll get through. The physical examination is just one part of the process. Your voice is just as powerful. We can still pursue justice. Once the test results comes out and we know what drugs he used on her, we'll have evidence."

Mrs. Arolowo squeezed her daughter's hand tighter, "Just what I was thinking of. It's going to be fine. We'll make sure Tommy pays for this."

Mr Arolowo walked in and Brenda shot a glare at him, "What's he doing here? I don't want to see him!" "My princess." "Now I'm your princess right? This is partly your fault, please get this man out of this room."

"Brenda." Kilahi called out, "No Kilahi, don't interfere! Let him get the hell out!" She screamed, "Where was he when I needed him to be on my side ? He sent me packing, he sent him own daughter packing and now he comes here calling me princess! The audacity and hypocrisy for me! Get out!" She screamed and he rushed out of the room in guilt.

Tears trickled down her eyes, "I'll like to be left alone now."

Kilahi glared at her, "No oh. Toor, when we wanted to leave, you said no. On the contrary, now we're not leaving you alone." "I second that." Sewuese added, "You don't have to be alone right now. You need us here, let's talk and joke about stuff. If you feel the need to cry, do that with us around. We don't want you committing suicide."

"And miss the chance of seeing Tommy pay for this? I wouldn't think of it." She answered and everyone chuckled.

"I just need to hear myself think."

The doctor rose up, "We've all heard the patient." She announced and Brenda pouts at everyone. "I'm sorry." She apologized.

"Take care and don't think too much." Kilahi embraced her and she forced smiled, "You know that will be impossible." Brenda whispered.

"Thanks for coming." She added them she looked over at Sefa, "Thanks for saving me. You still owe me the full gist."

Sefa smiled wiping her tears still, "Maybe later." She answered and walking out with Sewuese. She noticed Ugo walking towards the door then she called out to him.

"Hugo?" She called out, "Can I have a moment with only you?" She requested and he nodded plunging his hand into his pocket.

Gbadamosi approached her, "You said you were reciting the the Lord is my shepherd." He whispered, "Yes Pastor." "I'm curious, where is it in the Bible? What book and chapter?" He asked and she sucked her lips and Mrs Arolowo laughed.

"Are you sure it's the Lord is my shepherd or the Lord's prayer cause that's way easier."

"Ouch. Bada, you're mean." She answered busting into laughter. "I can recite the Lord is my shepherd." "I'll stake my house on it." He joked and Kilahi arced her brow.

"Haba Choicest, have faith in her."

"Ouch. I'll take you on that, when I'm done studying it again. Get out!" Brenda snapped playfully and he laughed. "Was that the only thing you heard?"

"I'll love to hear your testimony on Sunday."

Brenda sighed and her mother kissed her on the forehead. "See you later." She said approaching Ugo then she tapped him on the shoulder before leaving.

Ugo approached her bed, hands still plunged in. "Hey"

Brenda shut her eyes, "Gosh, I'm so ashame right now." "Why?" "I can't believe you just ask." "Why did you ask me to wait?" "Because I can't believe you were leaving me. Shouldn't there be some form of empathy?"

"Why the hell didn't you tell me?" He asked, his voice was low, but the intensity behind it was unmistakable. He clenched his fists at his sides.

"Tell you what? That I was going to see Tommy? We aren't exactly together ." She shot back. She looked away, her gaze fixed on the floor, as if the tiles held the answers to her pain.

"That you told your father about me." He pressed, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "You could have confided in me. I would have been there for you."

"Because i thought it didn't mean shit if I was still officially engaged to that idiot! I still had the idiot's ring!" She snapped, her voice rising. "The only reason I went to his place was for us to figure out how to let his family know."

His expression darkened, his jaw tightening. "That bastard wasn't the problem for me; it was your dad. I was stuck in the middle of you picking your dad over me. Tommy was never the competition; it was your dad. I didn't want to be caught in that net."

Brenda let out a bitter chuckle in nostalgia, "My sugar daddy, you called him that remember?" She repeated, exhaling sharply. "I'm so angry at that man. I mean he blocked me. He stopped my funds... And block me, I couldn't call him, I couldn't..."

"Kilahi told me while we were... Why the hell didn't you say anything?" Ugo's disappointment was evident, his voice cracking slightly.

"You should have told me! We could have managed this shit together. How did you survive? How have you been coping?" His eyes searched hers, desperate for answers.

"Kilahi, she helped. Her family has been my backbone." She whispered, a single tear escaping down her cheek. "It's funny how what was supposed to be a simple conversation turned into a fucking almost rape encounter. I've never felt so helpless the way I did when I started feeling weak."

"Shhh," He murmured then he rose up wrapping his arms around her tightly, pulling her close. "Ugo, I begged him, I wanted to run." "Shhh, it's okay. You sent the message to Kilahi's sister, that was brave."

"I can't even remember what I was typing, I was just typing. I was so scared when I realized the drink had been spiked."

"It's going to be fine. He's going to pay for this. I'll be here with you, right beside you, giving you the support you want."

"I don't want your fucking pity, Hugo!" She exclaimed, pulling away slightly to look him in the eye, her expression fierce.

"I don't pity you," He insisted, his voice rising in frustration. "Call it guilt. I feel horrible! If I had been the boyfriend you wanted me to be, none of this shit would have happened. If I had just forgiven you... you wouldn't have had any reason to meet that idiot. I personally would have had that ring delivered through any means.... I would have..." His voice trailed off, his forehead resting against hers, their breaths mingling.

"Stop!" She interrupted, her voice firm. "None of this is your fault. It's my fault for being stupid and trusting. I could have made my choice but I chose to satisfy my father, a man who doesn't deserve it."

Ugo scoffed, "He's still your Dad." "He doesn't deserve that title." "He's going to make Tommy pay." "Out of guilt. He can go to hell for all I care. This is also his fault! I don't want his help!"

"Tommy has to pay! That damn coward has to pay!" He snapped, his voice breaking as he broke into tears, the weight of his emotions crashing down on him.

"Baby, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry," He whispered, her heart aching for him.

A small smile crept onto her face at the sound of him calling her "baby." It felt like a lifeline in her darkest moment. "You just called me baby."

"I'm sorry," He replied, his voice thick with emotion. "Don't be. I don't mind hearing it again. I miss it."

"Baby." He called out and she bit her lower my lips, "If getting almost raped could bring us to this, it was worth it." She forced a laugh, but it was laced with pain, and Ugo sighed, tears still streaming down his face.

"I swear, I'll kill that douchebag. He deserves to rot in jail," He vowed, his fists clenching at his sides.

"What if his parents buy justice or he lies against me. He obviously bragged about being invisible. What if it backfires? What if he twists the story? What if I end up being the one on trial?" Her voice was laced with fear, her eyes wide as she searched his face for reassurance.

Ugo leaned closer, his gaze unwavering, "He has been arrested along with everyone in that party. There's enough evidence already. Kilahi's sister already did a good job going live." He replied, his voice steadying. "It's going to be your word and some evidence against him. The test might not prove any forceful penetration but your face" He said looking at the black spot on her forehead.

"Hugo, what if it gets to the news? What will people say? How will they view me? How will your family view me? Would they want you to be with me?"

"I don't give a flying fuck," He replied fiercely, his eyes locking onto hers. "I love you, there's no Daddy barrier, and that's all that matters to me. I don't know about the Daddy barrier but as long you're clear with him, I don't have to worry about hiding to date my girlfriend."

Brenda chuckled, "I don't give a flying fuck either." She answered and the both chuckled. Then she added, "It's my life and my man. You're the one I want to be with, and I'll fight for you. I'm sorry I didn't fight before but I'll fight for us."

A soft laugh escaped his lips, a bittersweet sound that echoed in the sterile room. "I love you." He confessed , "I love you too," She replied, her heart swelling despite the pain. Their lips met in a tentative kiss, a gentle exploration that quickly turned passionate.

Brenda felt the warmth of his body enveloping her, the way he held her as if he never wanted to let go. The kiss deepened, filled with all the words they hadn't said, all the moments they had missed.

Thursday

Nancy lay in the private ward, her body a patchwork of bandages, her limbs immobilized, and her neck encased in a hard plaster of Paris cast. The pain was a constant reminder of the brutal push down the stairs, but she focused on the doctor's voice, trying to block out the agony that coursed through her.

"Your mother is insisting on seeing you," The doctor said, his tone professional yet sympathetic.

"I don't want to see anyone," Nancy replied, her voice strained. "Not my mother, not my sister, not my husband. The only person I want to see is my father, but they always keep him from knowing."

The doctor hesitated, then asked, "What about the other lady?"

"Who?" Nancy furrowed her brow, the pain making it hard to think clearly.

"There's a woman waiting outside. I didn't catch her name."

A flicker of recognition crossed Nancy's mind, but she dismissed it. How could Temi possibly know she was here?

"How is she? Is she dark and a bit chubby?" Nancy asked, wincing as she shifted slightly.

"That sounds like her," The doctor confirmed.

"Please, let her in," Nancy said, her heart racing at the thought of seeing her friend.

Moments later, Temi walked in, her expression a mix of relief and horror as she took in Nancy's condition. "Oh my God. Oh my God!" She gasped, rushing to Nancy's side. She pulled a chair close and sat down, her eyes brimming with concern. "Look at you."

"At least I'm alive," Nancy replied, forcing a weak smile despite the pain. "How did you find out about me?" She asked, "A friend tipped me, I've been here since last night, we've been worried and sick." "Awn. You didn't have to stay, you left your husband."

"I was scared."

"I'm fine."

"Gbadamosi sends his regards."

Nancy arced her brow, "He's here too?" "Not for you, he's also in this hospital for a friend but he sends his greetings. When I called to ask about Brenda, he asked and sends his regards." "Awn."

"What happened?" Temi asked, her voice low and urgent.

"I refused to do what he wanted, and he decided to punish me by throwing me down the stairs," Nancy said, her voice trembling with the memory.

"Your husband is a sick man," Temi said, her tone filled with anger.

"I thought beating me until I miscarried was the worst he could do," Nancy replied, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"He's going to keep doing this if you continue to endure it. The next time, it might be your dead body on the floor," Temi warned, her voice firm.

"There won't be a next time. I'm done. I'm getting a divorce," Nancy declared, her resolve hardening.

Temi's eyes widened in disbelief, then excitement. "Are you serious?" She asked, leaning forward, "Yes," Nancy affirmed, her heart pounding.

"Our foundation handles issues like this. You can't let that animal get away with this," Temi urged, her passion igniting a spark of hope in Nancy. "No offense, I know he's still your husband, but the man is an animal." "You're not wrong," Nancy admitted. "He has to pay for what he's done."

Temi reached out, taking Nancy's hand in hers, squeezing it gently. "Ouch." "Sorry. You deserve so much better than this." "Thank you, Temi. For doing what my mother and sister couldn't do." She concluded in appreciation.

Aunty Abebi heard the insistent, jarring melody of her ring tone. She was nestled deeply against Emmanuel, his chest a warm, comfortable pillow, and the phone's shrill ring was an unwelcome disruption to the peaceful cocoon they'd created. She groaned, the lazy contentment of sleep clinging to her.

"Want to answer that?" Emmanuel murmured, his voice thick with sleep, his hand instinctively tightening around her back.

"No," She sighed, burying her face further into his chest. The phone rang again, a persistent demand for her attention that she couldn't ignore. With another groan, she reluctantly peeled herself away from him.

He chuckled, "It seems someone really wants to talk to you." He assumed as a small smile played on his lips.

The phone rang a third time, and with a heavy sigh, she finally swiped to answer. The name on the screen made her blink. Kilahi? She wondered why she was calling so early.

"Hello," She said, her voice still thick with sleep.

"Good morning, Aunty Abebi," Kilahi's voice came through, "Good morning, Kilahi," she replied, pushing herself up slightly, Emmanuel's hand now resting on her side. "Is everything okay?"

There was a brief pause, a subtle sign of hesitation that made Aunty Abebi's skin prickle with unease.

"Brenda, a friend... you probably don't know her. She... she almost got raped last night. She's... she's pretty shaken up. She needs a legal practitioner, and you're the only one I could think of. We need your help, Ma." Her voice cracked.

Aunty Abebi's heart plunged. The laziness of sleep evaporated, replaced by a sharp, cold fear. She sat up straighter, pulling the blanket tighter around herself. "Where is she, Kilahi? Where is this Brenda?" She asked, her voice now sharp with concern.

Sefa dipped her crusty bread into a steaming cup of tea, watching the liquid absorb the warmth as she brought it to her lips. Her gaze was fixed on the television, where a news anchor was discussing the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

"This ridiculous government just won't budge on ASUU's demands! They're dragging their feet while the future of our children hangs in the balance! How much is a senator earning?" Uncle Adzer exclaimed, frustration bubbling in his voice. "Look at us! A whole independent nation, and if there were such a thing as a fourth world, I'm sure we'd be right at the top of that list!" Sefa added.

Aunty Mabel, seated across from her, shook her head in agreement, her brow furrowed with concern. "It's bad leadership, plain and simple. The hearts of men are just desperately wicked. Take that awful incident with Brenda, for instance. Can you believe someone would even think of doing something so evil?"

Sefa nodded, her expression darkening. "I heard that the guy's parents were trying to get him released last night, even after everything that happened. It's infuriating! Brenda's dad has connections, and thankfully, he didn't let anyone interfere with the investigation."

She listened intently as the news report unfolded, "In a significant breakthrough, police have successfully rescued a total of twelve women during a raid conducted yesterday, all believed to be victims of a kidnapping ring linked to the abduction of a teenager named Sefa Adzer." The news reported announced and Sefa widened her eyes in shock.

"According to authorities, one of the alleged kidnappers that was apprehended on Saturday has finally provided crucial information about the location of the hideout. This led to the discovery of the twelve women, who were found in distress but are now safe."

"Thank you Jesus!" Aunty Mabel exclaimed.

"However, it appears that the kidnappers managed to escape with the victims' personal belongings and electronic devices. No member of the kidnapping group was captured, prompting an ongoing investigation to track them down and bring them to justice."

The police are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward, as they work tirelessly to ensure the safety of the community and prevent further incidents."

Sefa felt a wave of relief wash over her as she watched the video coverage of the women both young and old that were rescued.

Alonso turned off his phone with a sharp click in a dimly lit room of the motel. He turned his gaze toward the window, the thin curtains fluttering slightly in the cool breeze. The fear of being caught by the police sent fear running down his spine. He had just gotten Intel that the police were still combing and running searches.

With Buchi's investment gone, going back to Anambra seemed impossible except there's a replacement. How in the world will he get that done?

"Damn!" He muttered under his breath, frustration lacing his voice. This was the third motel he had moved into that week each one a temporary refuge from the storm that threatened to engulf him. The fear gnawed at him, a relentless beast that wouldn't let go. He was certain that his colleague had spilled the beans about their usual haunt-their sanctuary, their hideaway.

Alonso exhaled, the weight of the situation pressing down on him like a heavy shroud. He had always been careful, always taken precautions, but now it felt as if the walls were closing in.

He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. He needed to think clearly, to devise a plan. The police were closing in, and he couldn't afford to be caught off guard. He had to find a way to stay one step ahead, to slip through the cracks. He picked up a phone scrolling through Instagram. "You think say na good idea to dey use any of these girls phone? What if them track am?"

"This phone be like wetin them dey track? Besides, no be her sim." Alonso snapped, "You still get time for social media. Boss dey para oh." "Make everybody just find their way. Lay low for now, I no even supposed dey parole with anybody for now, even you." He complained scrolling through Sefa's page.

My favorite Pastor @Official_Gbadamosi_george and my beautiful sister, Kilahi_Agbo are tying the knot this week! You ain't prepared for this kingdom collaboration! Heaven is ready, the earth is ready , my dancing shoes are ready!! 💃🏼💃🏼🎉

Aunty Abebi sat in an interrogation room. She adjusted her crisp, Ankara print skirt. Across from her was Tommy. His designer t-shirt was rumpled, his usual confident swagger replaced by a smirk. He looked more like a spoiled brat than a man accused of attempted rape.

"If I get the hell out of this place, you won't have a job to get back to so if you know what's good for you, you'll tell this useless policemen to let me go."

Aunty Abebi had been called in to assess the situation. The police had given her the bare bones.

"Tommy," She began, her voice calm but firm, "Or should I say Oluwatomisin Badmus. Which do you prefer, Oluwatomisin, Tomisin or Tommy?" She asked but he ignored her.

"I'm Aunty Abebi."

"I won't call you that."

"It's not a request. I've reviewed the preliminary reports. The situation, to put it mildly, is serious." She answered and he scoffed, not bothering to make eye contact. "Serious? Please. This whole thing is a joke."

Aunty Abebi raised an eyebrow. "A joke that could land you in prison for a long time. The evidence, as it stands, suggests you drugged and attempted to force yourself on Miss Arolowo."

Tommy finally looked up, a flash of arrogance sparking in his eyes. "Attempted? She was all over me. We were vibing, you know? It was going to be consensual. She just got cold feet." He leaned back, crossing his arms. "Besides, my family isn't going to let this go anywhere."

A wave of frustration washed over Aunty Abebi. She'd seen this type of entitlement before, the belief that money and influence could buy their way out of anything. "Tommy," She persisted, "The police have statements, physical evidence... This isn't going to simply disappear. Pleading guilty, accepting responsibility will -"

He cut her off with a short, sharp laugh. "Guilty? Are you crazy? I'm innocent! This is all a huge misunderstanding. I need to be let out of this dump right now." He banged his fist on the table, the metallic clang echoing in the small room. "My family will have your head if I'm kept here any longer."

Aunty Abebi leaned forward, her eyes locking onto his. "Tommy, listen to me. This isn't a game. This is about justice, about right and wrong. And right now, the evidence points towards you being in the wrong." She tried to appeal to a sliver of reason. "Tell me what happened. Tell me your side. We need to understand the full picture."

Tommy's face hardened. He glared at her with undisguised hostility. "You think I'm stupid right? I'm not saying another word without my lawyer. Get me out of here." He retreated into a wall of defiant silence, the brief glimpse of vulnerability replaced by a mask of entitled superiority.

Aunty Abebi sighed, she pulled out her dictaphone. She knew the police were likely to build a solid case against him. He was not doing himself any good by refusing to speak.

"Very well, Tommy." She said, her voice clipped. She knew pressing him further without his lawyer present would be a waste of time. "Be warned, time is not on your side. You can plead guilty and have a lesser sentence or we take this to court and you get extra. Consider the implications of your silence. Think deeply on it." She stood.

The law, unlike Tommy and his family, could not be intimidated. And she was ready for the fight. The real case was yet to begin.

Mr. Arolowo observed his wife, Mrs. Arolowo, as she sat engrossed in conversation with Mrs. George. He attempted to catch her eye, but she seemed completely absorbed in their discussion.

"Salome? The same Salome?" Mrs. Arolowo exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief. She let out a heavy sigh. "I feel sorry for her. I think I ran into her about a while ago, and she was clearly putting on a brave face. This is what parental neglect looks like. You ignore your children's feelings, and before you know it, it all comes crashing down on you."

"I'm truly sorry about Brenda," Mrs. George replied, her tone sympathetic.

Mrs. Arolowo forced a smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Thank God the bastard didn't rape her," She said in relief.

"God forbid! That's not our portion," Mrs. George snapped her fingers emphatically. "The story would have been so different. My enemies would have had a field day mocking me." Mrs Arolowo continued.

"The important thing is that God was on our side, just like He was on Nancy's side. God answers prayers, and I include you all in my daily prayers. God doesn't sleep," Mrs. George reassured her, but Mrs. Arolowo noticed her husband's gaze drifting toward them.

"Excuse me, Ma, if you don't mind, I'd like to speak with my husband," Mrs. Arolowo said politely, excusing herself from the conversation.

As she approached Mr. Arolowo, he hissed in frustration. "Did you really have to take an hour to realize I was here?" he asked, irritation evident in his voice.

"It hasn't even been twenty minutes since we started talking," She retorted, crossing her arms.

"Must you talk for that long?" He pressed, his tone sharp.

"Don't you talk more than this with your side chicks?" She shot back, raising an eyebrow.

Mr. Arolowo scoffed, "That's not the point. Don't try to deviate from the conversation right now."

"What's so important that you had to interrupt me?" She challenged.

"My princess is," He replied, his expression softening slightly. "What's more important at the moment that her?"

"She wasn't important when you shoved her away right?" Mrs. Arolowo countered, her voice tinged with hurt.

"You know why I did that. Don't make it seem like I truly hate her. I was just trying to get her to come back to her senses," He defended himself, frustration creeping into his tone.

"That's why she doesn't want to see you. She doesn't even want you to defend her in this case," She said, her voice firm.

"She can't take that away from me," He insisted, his jaw tightening.

"She already has. Someone else is representing her," Mrs. Arolowo replied, crossing her arms defiantly.

Mr. Arolowo scoffed, "Someone from the firm?"

"No," She answered, shaking her head.

"No one will be able to win this case the way my firm would," He asserted, his pride evident.

"Good thing Kilahi has offered a good solution," She said, her tone slightly mocking.

"That Gbadamosi's girlfriend? Someone that desperate to be relevant? Which baby lawyer did she suggest to handle the case?" He asked, skepticism dripping from his words.

"Abebi Salami," She replied, watching his reaction closely.

Mr. Arolowo fell silent for a moment, processing the information. Then he nodded slowly, a hint of respect in his voice. "Wow. That's good, that's really good. Abebi Salami is..... How is she related to her? Abebi isn't someone you just call on casually."

"She works with the foundation and she's a friend of Kilahi." "Friend?" "So I heard. Well, for someone that desperate to be relevant, she has to be one of the best things that happened to Brenda this year," Mrs. Arolowo admitted in admiration.

Mr. Arolowo creased his brow, genuinely impressed. "I didn't realize she had such connections. Maybe this could turn out better than I expected with my help." "Is that all?" She asked and he held her by the wrist.

"Help me talk to our daughter. Please, I know what I did was unfair but she's still my princess, always will be. Please." He begged.

Aunty Abebi stepped out of the police building. Across the parking lot, she saw the Badmus'. Chief Badmus, his face flushed with indignation, and his wife, Mrs. Badmus, draped in an expensive-looking lace. They both stood like marble statues, their faces etched with a mixture of anger and anxiety.

Alongside them was a slender lawyer in an expensive black suit and trousers. Aunty Abebi knew him.

Her lips curved into a polite, almost mocking smile. "Good day, Chief and Mrs. Badmus," She greeted, her voice calm and steady, in contrast to the tension that radiated from the couple.

Chief Badmus' jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing as he took in her appearance. "Abebi Salami? What are you doing here?" There was a tremor of disbelief in his voice, and she could see the calculations flickering behind his eyes.

Aunty Abebi allowed a brief pause before answering, her gaze holding his. "I'm defending Miss Brenda Arolowo."

Mrs. Badmus gasped, her hand flying to her chest in fear, "You can't possibly be in support of that liar!" She exclaimed, her voice shrill. The arrogance in her tone was palpable.

Aunty Abebi raised an eyebrow. "I can't?" She asked, her voice sounded like she had been challenged.

Chief Badmus stepped forward, his face now a mask of fury. "She's lying! This whole thing is a fabrication. My son would never..."

Aunty Abebi cut him off, her voice taking on a sharper edge, not losing its composure but gaining authority. "Leave me to decide that," She stated, her eyes locking with his, not backing down. She was not a woman to be intimidated, even by the wealthy and powerful.

Mrs. Badmus scoffed, dismissing Aunty Abebi's assertion. "You can't pin anything on my son. He's innocent. There's no evidence on him." The words were a desperate plea, but also a demand.

Aunty Abebi's smile widened as her gaze focused on the slender lawyer,"My learned colleague, O'Brien Davis" "Aunty Abebi." The he called out with a smirk.

"If I were you," She began, her tone softening slightly but with an underlying firmness, "I'd respectfully ask that you talk to your client and advise him to plead guilty to his crimes." The smirk that followed scared Chief Badmus.

It was a calculated move, designed to prick their egos and plant a seed of doubt.

Without another word, she walked towards her car. She slid into the driver's seat, the engine purring to life as she fastened her seatbelt, glancing back at the couple in her rearview mirror.

Her phone buzzed and she quickly answered with a smile. "Hello Aisha." "Good morning Aunty Abebi, how are you?" "Fine."

"How's my baby?"

Aunty Abebi rolled her eyes, "Really?" "What? You have my little niece or nephew." "Why did you give Emmanuel my address without telling me?"

Aunty Abebi laughed, "I have been expecting your call and I called you but you didn't answer." "I was busy." "With what?" She asked and Aunty Abebi held back her laughter.

"Something." She answered and Mrs Aisha's laughter echoed loudly, "Was he there?" "If you have nothing important to say."

"Hold up, I have something important to tell you. Did you two make up?"

"Yes we did. Can we move on?" She asked feeling shy, the whole car suddenly felt hot at the thought of him.

"Can you meet me at Crimson hospital? We have a case."

"Did Kilahi call you? Is it about Brenda Arolowo?" She asked, "No. It's a domestic violence situation. Temi called me, we need you onboard."

Aunty Abebi shut her eyes, "Who's the victim, male or female?" "Female." Mrs Aisha answered and she rolled her eyes.

"Of course" She answered sarcastically. "My hands are full at the moment but I'll be there and we'll think of how we'll handle it."

"Thank you." Mrs Aisha answered ending the call. Aunty Abebi pulled out of the parking lot and drove off, leaving the Badmus' to stew in their anger and fear.

Brenda sniffed the sterile scent of antiseptic that hung heavy in the air, Kilahi watched her roll her eyes. "Gosh, I hate hospitals!" Brenda confessed, "It makes me sick! I still don't understand why they're keeping me, I didn't break a hand or leg." "You're under observation. You were drugged, there might be possible side-effects."

"Or they're looking for revenues." Brenda snapped and they both laughed.

"There's that one too."

Kilahi radiated in a white round-neck shirt tucked into flowy black palazzo trousers. The outfit, "Don't you have wedding plans? Have you gotten your flower?" Brenda asked, propped up against pillows.

Kilahi settled into the chair beside the bed, her gaze serious as she took Brenda's hand. "I'll don't today." "You're not acting like someone who's getting married in two days time" "You know, with everything happening." She paused, her voice tinged with a subtle edge. "How are you feeling today, darling?" She added, her tone shifting to one of genuine concern.

"A bit better, thank you," Brenda replied, her hand squeezing Kilahi's. "Less like I've been run over by a danfo, more like I just fell off a bicycle." She managed a small smile and Kilahi laughed, "Have you been hit by a village bicycle before? You won't know the difference" Kilahi answered and they both laughed.

"Really?" Brenda gasped in shock.

"You should ask me if I've been hit by one before. Toor, I was just joking." She added and they both laughed again.

The conversation shifted to the looming shadow of the incident with Tommy. "So, about that lawsuit..." Kilahi began, her brow furrowing slightly.

Brenda sighed, leaning back against the pillows. "Honestly, Kilahi, I want to shelve that whole mess. At least for now." She rolled her shoulder in a gesture of dismissal. "I need to focus on something that actually makes me feel... happy. We have your wedding to plan, darling! And frankly, I refuse to let that... that animal taint everything good happening right now."

Kilahi nodded slowly in understanding. "I get it, Brenda. You shouldn't have to be dragged down. Gbadamosi and I were just saying how..." She paused, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "You guys were talking about me? Ugh! This is what I don't want." "He's your Pastor and I'm your friend, what do you expect?"

Brenda chuckled, the sound a little weak but genuine. "To think you'll be getting down with my Pastor this week." She teased and Kilahi slapped her arm.

"Must you talk?"

"I tried not to use the F-word."

"You're impossible. But you're right though. I have a meeting with Pastor AmazingGrace in relation to this conversation."

"Is she going to teach you."

"Shut up!" Kilahi silenced her and Brenda laughed.

"Honestly, I'm not going to give Tommy the satisfaction of ruining anything else for me. This wedding... it's a beacon. It's everything and we're going to make it absolutely flawless." Brenda's usual bubbly personality resurfacing.

"Exactly!" Kilahi grinned,

Brenda waved a hand, her face firm with resolve." I've done some research about the Aunty Abebi. The reviews she has are incredible, the woman is like a legal tiger! She has a track record of not losing her case. I'll let her handle Tommy once the wedding is behind us. I've got too many other things to think about right now."

She looked directly at Kilahi, her eyes sparkling with a newfound strength. "I'm grateful for the gift of you; my amazing friend. I have your family, who have been absolute angels, the friends you extended to me. And let's not forget Ugo. What more could a girl ask for? I don't need that scumbag stealing my joy, not now, not ever."

Sneak peak on the next chapter........

"You know when people will say they are dedicating their new tear rubber car?" Pastor Noah's voice boomed through the church auditorium, a mischievous twinkle in his eye his eyes on the two couples before him. "I'm not talking about the one that comes without the nylon covering oh. I'm talking about the ones that come covered, completely covered! This is the kind of wedding we're dedicating to God today as these two embark on their new life together."

A wave of laughter, warm and genuine, rippled through the congregation. Kilahi, standing beside Gbadamosi at the altar, felt her cheeks flush. She giggled softly, a mixture of embarrassment and excitemement swirling within her.

Pastor Noah, sensing the slight awkwardness, chuckled and continued, "Indeed, this is a testament to God's blessings, a symbol of new beginnings. We're not talking about those car that has seen a few drives, folks! We're talking about one where...." He paused for dramatic effect, leaning into the microphone, "...The tyre has nylon! The mouth has not been torn!"

Sewuese, who was standing by Kilahi, gasped softly, her brow furrowing slightly. She loved Pastor Noah, but she couldn't help but wonder if the detailed analogy about the car's virgin state was absolutely necessary. It felt a little... too descriptive. She glanced at Gbadamosi who, standing tall and proud, was flashing a wide, beaming smile, seemingly unfazed by the Pastor's colourful language.

Finally, the moment arrived. Pastor Noah's voice softened, taking on a more mellow tone, "And now, as we have asked for blessings upon this new chapter. This is the part that most church members usually look forward to, I don't know what's exciting about kissing the bride. That same kiss that has led many of you astray, the way everyone's eyes will open, you will see, some people have even prepared to carry their phone to take the footage."

Everyone laughed.

"I'm not stopping you, I'm just saying, you all had better repent from all these carnality cause Jesus is coming soon. The real bridegroom."

Sewuese almost rolled her eyes, she shook her head knowing her Pastor can never change from being so orthodox!

"Well, before they'll sanction me for pausing the show. Well, Pastor Gbadamosi George," He paused for dramatic effect.

"You may not.." He paused eliciting a laughter from the couples, "You may now kiss your bride."

Kilahi's heart skipped a beat. She looked up at Gbadamosi, her eyes sparkling with happiness. He cupped her face in his hands, his touch gentle and reassuring.

"He's even adding slow motion." Pastor Noah added and the congregation laughed again.

A nervous giggle escaped Kilahi's lips as she watched him lean in, all the laughter and playful banter of the morning momentarily fading into the intimacy of the moment. The world seemed to melt away as he closed the distance between them.

What do you guys think about today's chapter????

Send in your comments guysssssss!!!!

Thank you and please vote!!!!!!

Can't wait to write the next chapter! ❤️❤️❤️❤️💃🏼💃🏼🎊🎉🎉✨🔔 💍