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Chapter 29

Unedited

One week later

Monday

Club High

Brymo sat on a long stool on stage singing one of his slow singles, "Woman"

🎶E get this woman, I carry her matter for head

I no fit fake am......🎶

Osaze sat on a high stool with his untrimmed side burns, he raised a glass of tequila and Raymond collected the glass from him. "Dude! It's okay, are you trying to kill yourself? We said you should come out of your shell, just have some fun time not get drunk." He snapped and Kubiat exhaled.

"Osaze you have to calm down and take this easy"

"Easy? The woman I love has gone back to Benin, she doesn't even to speak to me. I'm sad okay? I'm heart broken"

"I don't think it's Osas, maybe it's this song that's playing" Obinna answered and Raymond glared at him. "What do you have against Brymo?"

"Nothing." He answered now turning towards Osaze, "If you want my advice, I think you should go to Benin, just surprise her, you know say girls like surprises"

"I don't think she wants to see me"

"Just surprise her"

Raymond raised his hands, "I don't think that's necessary. I think you should just give her more time, when she's ready to talk to you, I'm sure she'll get to you" "I second that" Kubiat gave Raymond a look then he dunk the whole drink into his mouth while Obinna gave the both of them a familiar, he knew something was definitely up but he shrugged the thought off.

A week ago

At the police station

"You're that little girl, Osas?" Morenike called out on realizing who she was then she turned towards Osaze, "Really?" 

"What?" Goriola asked in shock, "Wait...." He paused pointing at her while Eniola and Folabi were left in wonder.

Osas covered her lips with her palms, she couldn't believe her discovery, "Bengee?" She asked and Osaze shut his eyes in regret, he didn't expect her to find out this way. 

"Osas I can explain"

Osas scoffed looking at Goriola,  "Gee shey?" She asked, "Um, Osas...Shit" He muttered , "It.... It doesn't even look like...." He stammered, his legs went weak. "I...I.... I didn't know.... I...I'm sorry" he apologized and she punched him on his face.

Goriola knew he deserved it!

"Where Jerry dey make the three of una complete" she snapped and Folabi understood this time. He wasn't new to the story of her rape.

"Wait.... Is this the..." He trailed off.

"This life is fucked up" Goriola confessed finally taking his seat before he falls down from the shock.  Osas scoffed and walked out of the police station and Osaze followed her.

She stopped on sighting Chief Akinola addressing the press. "I knew I'll definitely be released cause I'm a good citizen of this country by God's grace and I have never done anything to harm anyone. When God is on your side, it doesn't matter what anybody does, whether they try to drag your name in the mud, God will surely intervene" he answered and Osas passed another route, the last thing she wanted was to be asked questions that'll only make her cry!

"Osarieme!" Osaze called out not catching up to her then he held her hands, Osas slapped him on the face, "Leave me alone! If you touch me again, I swear to God, Osaze I swear to God, I go show you madness!"

"Please let me explain"

"Explain what? Explain the fact say my boyfriend na the same Bengee way I being expect to support me but him no do am! Bengee you fall my hand!"

"And I'm sorry"

"For what part huh?" She sniffled, "The fact you lied to me or the part where you left that police station that day without looking at me. Do you have any idea what happened after i...after you guys left that day? I asked them why they released you and they called me a liar, when I told them to ask Bengee, because you saw the whole thing happen, they said nothing like that happen.  The  Policeman no even being like me at first, him send me commot. I come be like one liar but as the kind person way I be I moved on Osaze! I moved and I'm moving on right now" she sniffled, "I don't ever want to see your face"

"Osas I'm very sorry"

"Shut up! I no even wan hear your voice!" She snapped leaving and his phone rang. He picked it on seeing it was Omo, "Omo" he called out intentionally to draw her attention and it did.

She paused knowing she possibly won't get any information about her whereabouts. Which kain life be this? Person no even fit vex in peace!

"Our car broke down, we'll soon be at the park. Can I get some direction? I don't know" "I'll pick you up"

"Oh. Thank you, that'll save us from stress, where's that woman?" She asked and he stretched the phone at her and she collected it.  "Omo" she called out sniffling.

"I don reach, Wetin do you?"

"Nothing" "E no sound like nothing, your boyfriend say him go pick us up, see you later, then we go come talk" Omo replied and Osas  watched Morenike walk down the stairs.

Kubiat got out, looking around in search of Osas and Osaze, "Where's Osas and Osaze?" He asked and Folabi pointed at the door, "What happened?" "I can't ever begin to explain" He scoffed staring at Goriola, "Wow, isn't life funny? You meet the same lady you raped years ago" "Rape?" Eniola and Kubiat asked, "Watch your lying tongue, you're in a police station! Goriola, what's this idiot talking about?" She asked and Folabi pointed at Goriola, "I don't know you but judging from what this rude woman said about being charmed by Osas, I assumed you're quite smittened by her, well Osas has that effect on people but my point is, that's there are consequences for every wrong choice you make in life. When you do bad things or support the bad people, it comes biting you in the ass, you doing know when but it'll surely come"

Eniola rolled her eyes, "And you think Osas is the good one here? Yeah right!" She hissed walking towards Goriola, "What's going on?"

Esther sat on the chair opposite her husband. "You're one sneaky bastard George and it's God that'll punish you!" She spat and he raised his brow in interest.

"You've read the letter right?" He asked then he chuckled.

"I had a feeling you'll make that request. I'm sorry you didn't see it coming" he laughed and she gritted her teeth angrily.

"Newsflash George, your daughter is in Lagos"

"What?"

"Matthew sent you a text and I confirmed it when I spoke to him this morning here, he was here a while ago." "Osas is here?"

"Yes. Her number hasn't been going through but I know it will someday and when I get her first, I'll make sure I kill her"

"If you do, you'll all lose everything"

"I don't care anymore. The only I want now, is her dead and trust me when I finally get to her, cause I will, I'll do what I should have done all years ago!"

Magarette walked up to Osaze, "Shey I told you he'll walk away free" "It's not over yet" "I saw the whole slap on the face move, what's up with that Osas girl. I can't believe she's the same person you're fighting for"  "There's a reason for it, just don't butt it" he snapped and she rolled her eyes.

"Okay now"

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to sound that way"  "It's okay, I wasn't sounding nice either, who you choose to fight for is your business not mine, so you're right, I shouldn't butt in"

"I'm sorry you wasted your time"

"Wasted what?" She scoffed, "I have all the juicy feeds from today's trend, guy, from the beginning to the end. This is a ground breaking moment for every reporter slash journalist"

Osaze looked at the car where Osas was already seated probably crying her eyes out. "I need to go" "No wahala"

In a studio, Tasha who had her mask sat adjacent  a male presenter staring right at the camera before them. "Welcome back guys, back to the 10 question on the hotseat and we still have naija's favorite video vixen, our very own naija wonderwoman on the hot seat"

"Its literally hot" She replied and the male presenter smiled at the camera. "Don't worry, our next question us definitely not from current affairs or cosmology" he replied and she exhaled in relief.

"How do you cope with the mask? Do you wear it everywhere?" "Huh.... Not everywhere. When I drop the whole Wonderwoman charade, I become a total different person."

"So it's a charade"

"Kind of"

"Why do you wear the mask, people are saying its because you look ugly and i don't want to believe a woman with a gorgeous body, permit me to drool cause I'm obviously on the drooling team. Yes, I'm not scared to admit it"

Tacha laughed, "Well, I can t say I look ugly and I can't say I look pretty. After all, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Um... Well, I can't really tell you why I wear the mask, its my deep dark secret. Someday I'll reveal the truth behind Wonderwoman, all I can say is she has a personality, she has her own life"

"Interesting. It's amazing wonderwoman, it's been years and no knows who you are" 

"Because it's Naija, everyone's going about their business, paparazzis don't actually care that much about me. I'm not even a celebrity, I'm just that girl that dances on people's music video"

"Is that all you do? Do you want to do something more?"

"First, no, it's not the only thing I do. I have other things but I'll want more, I want to take on dancing as a full career" "Haven't you gone through that?"

"No. Dancing was just something I loved doing growing up and in the university, I decided to do something about it but it wasn't really pronounced" "Let me guess, your parents didn't support your career" he asked and she laughed nervously.

"I guess so, let's move to the next question"

"Actually, the final question. Are you dating?" He asked and she hesitated. "Is that a yes?" "I'm keeping my lips sealed for now" "Who are you dating? Is he a celebrity?"

"I thought you said that was the final question" she asked and he chuckled. "Well, it's like one of those final questions that usually end up carrying babies"

"Huh.. Actually he is and very soon I'll be on his music video, we've been making plans" she chuckled biting her lips. "Hm, so he's a music artiste, wow"

"Yes he is"

The drive down to the park was a quiet one, not by choice but because Osas wanted it that way. "Osarieme" "Don't talk to me, Osaze, the only reason way I dey follow you na because I need to reach that park and na only your number Omo for reach, or else I would have preferred to ask Kubiat for a ride"

"I'm sorry"

"I go jump commot oh!"

"I'm sorry"

"I don't want to hear your voice please!"

Osifo furiously barged into Morenike's Office. "How much were you paid?" He asked and she raised her brow, "What are you saying?" "Don't play dumb with me, you know what I mean!"

"Sifo, you're raising your voice"

"And I'll raise it even more! What kind of person are you? What kind of mother are you? Going head on against your own son?" "How did you find out? DPO Mustapha called you right?"

"Morenike, you're going to turn down Chief Akinola's offer to be his attorney,  you'll return the money and ..."

"And what? Sifo, what right do you have to make such demands"

"I have a right as your husband and the father to your children"

"That's the only thing you are! You have no right remember? No damn right to make any demands," "So you'd rather support a stranger, some corrupt politician who is probably guilty than support your own son"

"My clients are important"

"Listen to yourself! Your clients? So you'll choose your client over your children?"  "They won't hesitate to choose other people and interest instead of me their mother, tell me why shouldn't I also do the same?"

"You're unbelievable! You're just unbelievable!" He snapped leaving the office.

"Sister, why you dey bone face?" Osato asked and Osas rolled her eyes. "No mind me, your sister no happy" she answered and Omo who was seated at the front seat with Osaze turned back at her.

"Wetin happen?" She asked and Osas looked at Osaze. "No be car talk. Please drop us over at Mrs Obianuju's house" "Why?"

"Do you think I'll go back to your place? No!"

"Osarieme, I'm really sorry. I wanted to tell you" "Osaze, if you apologize again, I swear, I ask you to pull over and I'll find my way there"

"How?" Omo asked, "Even if I have to trek" "You for no like try me, Oga abeg drive. I'm not ready to experience stress again, I've been stressed enough! The only reason I come see if you dey okay, if you no dey, na to drag you go back Bini, I no come experience stress at all." She replied looking out the windshield then she turned back at Osas.

"Shebi na your boyfriend? Boyfriend and girlfriend dey always fight"

"No be my boyfriend again"

"Wetin happen?"

"I say no be car talk"

"You beta open mouth talk! You think say I get power for suspense?" She shouted, "I swear, I go throw my slippers for your face, I dey talk you dey keep me quiet"  "We go just kill ourself for this car"  Osas cried.

"Maybe we should drop this, I'm sorry I brought the topic up"

"Osas!"

"Na him" she pointed at Osaze, "Bengee" she muttered and Omo's lips curled in a 'Oh' motion. "You no being know?" "I go know before, I go come dey cry now?"

"You na cry cry now, anything is possible" she answered and Osas glared at her.  "I'm sorry" Osaze apologized, "I know I should have said something but I didn't and it was wrong of me"

"Wait, you know? And you no tell her"

"I wanted to"

"Can we not have this discussion? My little brothers are here! Just drop us at Obianuju's house" "She won't be at home" "Then drop me at Ejiro's place"

"It's not safe"

"They won't kill me"

"But they can capture you and make you drop the whole case. I won't take that risk"

"Then drop me under the third mainland bridge then! I'd rather be there than go back to your house" she snapped sniffling and Osaze's eyes glistened in tears, Osas' words pierced through his heart.

He was so close to suffering a heart attack! 

Aunt Avia passed a glass of water to Osifo, "Thank you" he replied drinking from it. She watched tears suddenly roll down his eyes, "Where did I go wrong? Should I start regretting why I got married to her?"

"That's like saying you regret having your children."

"I was engaged to Chioma and I could have gotten married to her instead but I chose this life, an unhappy life with a woman who feels she can trample on everyone"

"She has always been that way"

"And I started to get used to it, I saw another side to her and started to fall in love gradually, there's no good side to that woman, Morenike is a monster!" "So if this case goes to court, it'll be her against her own son"

"If I know my son well, he possibly won't stop until he gets what he justice and that's far from what Morenike will provide. I feel useless Avia" he cried, "I feel so useless"

"Go! What are you still waiting for?" Osas yelled and Raymond turned towards Obianuju, "Let's give the couples alone time" he suggested and Osas glared at him.

"No even call us couple. He knew the truth and he hid it from me! Which kain boyfriend be that one?" She asked and Raymond plunged his hands in his pocket, "He was just scared"

"So you knew too and you didn't tell me. This is perfect!"

"You know what? I think we should leave this two to talk things out"

"I second that motion" Omo answered, "I'll be in my room" he added leaving and Obianuju smiled at Osato and Zuwa. "I'll show you to the guest room, come"
"Thanks" Omo answered, "Don't worry, by tomorrow, I'll be gone. I don't like imposing"

"It's no problem" she waved her hands holding Zuwa's hands. "What's your name?" "Zuwa" he answered, "That's sweet, how about your brother?"

"My name is Osato"

"Osarieme, I want you to hear me out" Osaze begged, "You have one minute" "I'm sorry" "No apologize, the thing dey make me vex. Why you no tell me?"

"Because I was ..... I was scared you'll be angry with me. I fucked up real bad that year, I know I should have supported you but my mom talked me into  giving that statement to same Goriola and Jerry's ass!"

Osas cried, "You fall my hand Osaze" "I know and I'm sorry, I was just a pawn in Mom's chess. I couldn't make my decision, that was one of the many reasons I hate her, the nightmare I keep having, it's because of it. I haven't had a moment of peace since that thing happened, not until I met you"

"You knew from the start?"

"No! I swear I didn't. It wasn't until the retreat, when you spoke about your ambition to be a doctor, it then came to me. That was why I left, I felt awful, I even planned on firing you until you told me you were fired and I just couldn't bring myself down to do it"

Tears continuously poured down her eyes as he gave his explanation. "I wanted to escape but I couldn't because the truth is, I was already in love with you." "I no fit Osaze..... I can't do this again, not anymore."

"Please" he knelt down, "I'm not expecting you to forgive that easily but I just want you to know that I'm really sorry for everything" 

"I'm going back to Benin first thing tomorrow"

"Please"

"I'm sorry Osaze, i no fit, it's over" she snapped leaving then she walked Into the guest room leaning against the door and everyone stared at her.

"I have never seen anyone so annoying in my entire life" Eniola stressed getting out of the bathroom in a white bathroom robe. "I mean the way he was insulting me!"

"Hm" Jemima who was fiddling with her phone while sleeping on her bed raised her nose in disbelief, "And you weren't the one being rude to him shey?"

Eniola scoffed, "Are you trying to say something?" "Yes and I'm not going to sugarcoat it. You know me now, Eniola, I can bet a million naira that you were the one that acted rudely to him first" Jemima spat out.

Eniola creased her brow in thought, trying to recall what even happened, not like she wasn't going to admit it anyway, "I didn't say much, I just said if he wasn't so stupid he would have known that a person cannot be jailed anyhow without any form of evidence. I didn't exactly put it that way but that was what I meant. I was even trying to sound nice but the guy had the nerve to call me a spoilt brat"

"Aren't you a spoilt brat?" Jemima snapped and Eniola hissed sitting on the bed. "Now I miss Queen, please come and do and be going. Queen supports everything I do and say"

"I won't see you putting your hands in fire and turn blind eyes to it. I'm trying to help you, at this rate, you'll never succeed in having a successful relationship."

Eniola stretched her palms at her, "You're the one that won't succeed in having a good relationship. Why the curse now?" She asked and Jemima laughed pressing her phone. "I wasn't cursing you, I was just saying the truth and yes I know that the truth hurts, get used to it! Orh! You're just reacting cause it's pricking your conscience and you know that I'm not lying. When last have you ever had a long lasting relationship?"

"Oya it's okay now! I get your point"

"Are you sure? I'm tired of you being single, I want to eat wedding cake" Jemima answered and she laughed pointing at her, "See this one, what about you? If you get married nko? Abi your village people will get angry at you? With all your good character, beauty and brains. What about the guy you left me for at my cousin's wedding?" She asked and Jemima laughed, "That one no follow abeg" she replied waving her hands. "What's this your case about? Why is it trending?"

"It's that village girl Osaze dumped me for, can you believe they're dating already?"

"Babe, inside life, it's totally normal"

"See why we always fight?"

"Ever since the break up between you and Osaze, you've been blaming this girl as if she was the one that told him to break up with you. It's not this babe's fault, you're just being paranoid"

Eniola scoffed then she rolled her eyes, "Why are you taking the case? Because you hate her?" "My boss requested that I and Goriola help her out but he declined." She replied then she paused remembering the whole rape incidence and she felt chills.

"You won't believe what happened" "What?" "Turns out, this village girl is someone Osaze and Goriola knew back in the university days. Remember Jerry?"

"Yeah, that idiot!"

"Turns out, they both raped her"

"Jesus! But Osaze doesn't look like the kind to..." "Goriola and Jerry" "Jesus! Oh my God, so she just realized it today"

"When she saw Osaze's Mom. Shhh, please don't let anyone know. I wouldn't have said this to Queen but since it's you...." "Jesus.... And after how many years they now met and Osaze... Wow, sounds like some freaking telemundo series. Jesus! Oh my God, I feel for her, at least it's not Osaze that raped her"

"She left angrily, I'm sure the relationship is over. Osaze is single again but I'm not interested" "Is that all you care about? She's a victim here, Osaze Osaze Osaze?"

"No!" She exhaled, "Goriola feels horrible, he really did like her and I don't know why I feel bad for her too. I haven't been raped before and I'm this stuck up. She doesn't even act like.... it's so crazy when you see her try to be happy even in the most embarrassing situation, even when you're trying to make her angry" "Are you admiring her?"

Eniola scoffed, "I hate her" "But babe, now she's stucked in this case. Na wa oh, na so her luck bad reach? I feel bad for her. Let me even watch that her video on YouTube" "She's lying"

"I'm sure you're just being sentimental"

Madam Davina searched for updates on Chief Akinola's and a video of Chief Akinola surfaced

I'm a good citizen of this country by God's grace and I have never done anything to harm anyone. When God is on your side, it doesn't matter what anybody does, whether they try to drag your name in the mud, God will surely intervene

The video of Eniola was next, "Osas thought she could play victim and accuse an innocent man of a crime he didn't commit. I'm sure she was paid to tell this lie, my counsel is that if she doesn't back away from lying against Chief, we'll be coming harder on her she'll definitely pay for proganda and damages against his image"

Davina shut her eyes, "Oh God Uwa, Uwa she's your sister. Jesus, what have I done? What have I done?"

Vera stormed into the house fuming after being informed about her mother taking up Chief Akinola's case against Osaze. "Vera dear!" Nana called out, "It's late oh" "Good evening Nana" "What are you doing here?"

"I came to see that woman that calls herself my mother" she answered and her Nana groaned taking a good guess, her reasons for coming.

Tacha walked in smiling at her, "Hey Big sis" "Where's your Mom?" Vera asked and she pointed to the back. "She should be in her room"  "How does she live with herself?"

Morenike walked in and all eyes "If you're here to complain to me about my decision to stand by Chief Akinola, I suggest you go back to your husband's house cause I obviously don't have the strength amd I've been receiving a lot criticism left right and center, I don't want you adding yours to it"

Vera scoffed, "You're not even remorseful!" "About what?" "It's all about the money for you right? It doesn't matter who you step on, the money is the only thing you care about. How much did he pay you? For crying out loud, he's a ritualist. That's blood money!" "The same money I used in raising you and your siblings, I took you and Tasha to a damn private school, I didn't even take Osaze to a private school! I gave you all the best a mother can ever give, with this same blood money"

"No one asked for it. I didn't ask to be taken there! That's not even my point but whatever, nothing you do surprises me any longer! Going against your own son, you're a shame to all mothers"

Morenike slapped her on the face and she groaned then she blinked her tears in, "Slap me a million times, it just doesn't change the fact you're nothing but a shame Mrs Briggs, I'm highly ashame to call you mother. You don't deserve the title, it doesn't fit you and right from today I take that title out"

"Vera!"

"Yes Nana, I'm very sorry but this is my decision.  Right from this moment, you Morenike Briggs seize from being my mother!" She snapped leaving the house and Morenike felt legs go weak then she took her seat touching her chest.

"Vera!" Tasha followed her then she returned to the voice of her Nana chastising her mother.

"Have you seen what you've caused?" Nana snapped and she groaned in pain, "Morenike, are you okay?" She moved closer and she snapped her fingers.

"My medication Nana, please get me my drugs!"   "What medication?" She asked and Nana ran quickly to get it.

"Mom, what's going on?"

"I'm having a heart attack, I'll be fine" "Mom, you say it like it's a normal thing. Should I call Dad? Or Vera?"

"Don't" she inhaled and exhaled quickly and Tasha watching at her.
Wouldn't it be better for her mother to die? Wouldn't it be better for everyone? For her? She'll be free to have a normal relationship with Chike!

Ejiro knocked entering into the room where Osas was seated in bed crying. "Osas?" She called out and Osas raised her brow in surprise.

"Good evening everyone"

"Good evening" Obianuju and Omo greeted and she smiled. Osato and Zuwa were already asleep on anbed sheet on the floor.

"Omo, Mrs Obianuju"

"Obianuju"

"Meet Ejiro, my Lagos best friend. Ejiro" she pointed at Omo, "This is my Benin best friend and Mrs Obianuju, you know her" "Yeah, Osas talks a lot about the two of you. It's nice to meet you guys"

"You too"

"God have I missed you Osas! I'm so so so happy to see that you're okay. Even Madam Davina called a while ago to know how you're faring"

"Seriously? How you take find me?"

"Your boo told me where to find you"

"He's not my boo"

"Relationship is always like that, some couples fight and make up. How many days relationship, I'm sure you two will sort something out"

"Ejiro, you don't understand"

"Make me"

Tuesday morning

Hospital

Chike whose head was up woke up to find out Tacha was no longer laying her head on her lap. Suddenly he sighted her walk towards him. "Nana good morning" she greeted and her Nana forced a smile.

"Where were you?" Chike asked and she turned back, "Huh... I went to the toilet" she returned her gaze back at him then she sat down leaned against his shoulder.

"Good morning"

"Yeah, good morning"

"Any word from your mom?" "I haven't checked yet" "Why?" "Babe, I still feel guilty" "For what exactly?" "I feel awful, when I saw Mom having that attack yesterday, I just felt like she should die. Who does that? I'm a monster"

"Hey! Shh, it makes us human to think that way but I'm sure you didn't mean it"

"I did" Tacha confessed, "Deep down I don't want it but if she actually does, I'll be free to live my dreams, be with the man I love"

Chike smiled, "I love you too" he confessed, both forehead rubbing against each other and she chuckled. "I feel like letting Mom know about us" "Hey! She just had an heart attack, it's fair to just let it rest till she's okay"

"Are you sure?" She asked and He chuckled. "I'm not sure but I think that'll be appropriate for now and I also think I should leave now, I don't want issues" He said kissing her on the forehead then he rose up turning towards Tasha's Nana, "Ma, I'll be leaving."

"Thank you for coming to support us"

"It's nothing Ma" he replied poking Tacha's nose, "Do take care of yourself" "I will" she answered and he grudgingly took his leave. 

"What a fine gentleman"

Morenike opened her eyes to see her doctor staring right at her. The old man glared at Morenike and she looked away to avoid his gaze. "At this point in time, I might have to request that you take a break" "From?" "Work" "This wasn't caused by work"

"What then?"

"I had an argument with my daughter"

"I heard your law firm is going against Osaze, the news is all over. Some people are wondering what kind of person you are" "By people, you mean your wife"

"See, Morenike, I'm not going to tell you how to run your life but this thing that's about to spew up between you and your son, it'll definitely generate critical public opinion and the the opinion poll will definitely not be in your favor"

"I'm just doing my job"

"Or your father's job" he answered, it was her turn to glare at him, "Each passing day, you're becoming more like him and I hope you don't end up dying like he did! He didn't even live long enough to see his grandchildren, you're taking the same step he did. I learnt Vera is expecting a child, it'll be a pity if you don't even get to see how your grandchild looks like and unlike your father, you have three beautiful children. Osaze will have his, Vera and Tacha too, there's no greater joy than that!"

Morenike folded her hands, "Why does this sound like an emotional blackmail?" "Is it working?" "No. Osifo didn't come home last night"

"Ah I see, did that contribute to the cause of the attack?"

"I'm sure he's at Avia's."

"You want my advice? I think your should reconcile with yourself first before you'll think of reconciling with anymore" "I don't have anything against myself"

The doctor scoffed, "Are you sure?" He asked giving her a look and Tacha walked in with Nana.

"Mom, you gave us quite a scare yesterday" Tasha said and Morenike forced a smile. "I'm fine, I just want to get out of this hospital and go to work"

"What???" Tacha asked turning towards the doctor, "Is that even acceptable?" "I told her to stay off work" "Who's going to stop me?" Morenike asked and the doctor hissed leaving the room.

Tacha shook her head, "Mom" "Tacha, please leave your mother and I alone" Nana requested and she left the room.

"Remember how you've always wanted your father dead so that you can do what you wanted? Remember that time he had that stroke?" She asked and Morenike nodded.

"I was being childish"

"Morenike, you're using the same pattern on your children" "They're being childish too! Very soon they'll realize what I do is for their good"

"When I get home, I'll be going back to my family"

"What?" Morenike asked in horror, "You can't do that" "Why?" "Please, I need you" "For what? You know, since when you were a little child, I have been there for you. I have tried to play the role of a mother, I have done my possible best. Morenike, i have made sacrifices for you but you keep getting worst! I don't see my use, I'm doing what I should have done years ago"

"Please! If you leave, I don't know what I'll do. I still need you" she cried, "Please"

Obianuju looked into the mirror wiping her tears off. "Now you're back to crying" Raymond groaned in frustration, "She's going back to Benin" "I'm sure shell come back"

"What if she doesn't?"

Obianuju walked into the room where Osas was rubbing Vaseline on Zuwa's back. "Isn't that too much?" She asked and Osas chuckled. "Same thing I asked her" Ejiro answered, "She's a potential African mother" she added and Obianuju chuckled.

"Must you go?" She asked and Osas nodded. "I don't really have a place here"  "I know you're angry at Osaze but the truth is, you two look good together and I know you'll forgive him later, there's no point wasting transportation that you don't have"

Osas rolled her eyes, "Ejiro's place is not an option" "I haven't even found a place yet, I'm squatting with Chika's friend." "See! This is all my fault, maybe if I leave, everyone's life can return back to the way it was"

"Not everyone's life will return back to the way it was!" Obianuju snapped in tears, "Mine won't! You're my friend and I'm so used to you. I don't want you to leave"

"I don't want you to leave either" Ejiro confessed. 

Osas' eyes glistened with tears, "If you're worried about where to live, you can stay here" "No way!" "Or you can stay with my Parents, I'm sure they'll be more than happy to receive you"

"I don't like to .... No"

"Osas, if they won't mind, just stay there for a while"

"I no like to be like burden"

Omo looked at Obianuju, then at Ejiro, she now understood why Osas has been reluctant about coming back to Benin; apart from the troubles, she had good friends here!

"See, I need to go back to Benin, get a job and start taking care of my brothers. School has resumed and I'm supposed to have half payment of their school fees by now" 

"I'll pay" Obianuju replied, "What? That's crazy" "Am I complaining?"

"If they want you to stay, stay. Them get point, you like that Osaze very well and you go still come back" "I no come back"

"No be am rape you now! You no dey quick hold grudges so....I no say you go still forgive am. Stay" "Osato and Zuwa nko?"

"We go go later, school just resume, no be say them do test or anything. I no fit leave you like this" "Work nko?"

"I go lie, anything. I just can't leave you this way"

"I just want to clear my head"

"My parents place is the perfect place. Osaze won't even know you're there" "And if he asks, what will you tell him?" "You went to Benin"

"What about Raymond?"

"I'll talk to him. Just don't leave"

Tiffany noticed Aunt Avia drive out of the compound then she scurried to her house knocking on the door. After a while, Osifo opened up. "Good morning Sir" "Good morning Nkoyo" he answered and she chuckled.

"You still remember"

"Yes I obviously do"

"Is there a chance you can call me Tiffany?" She asked and he shook his head. He noticed the sad look on his face and her eyes became filled with concern.

"Are you okay Sir?"

"Yes" he answered then he shook his head, "No, no I'm not" he answered and she shrugged, "Can I come in so we can talk about it. I'm a good listener" she bit her lips and he nodded.

"I could really use one right now"

Obianuju heard a knock on the door so she rushed to open it. She was shocked to see Madam Davina standing on her porch. They were both surprised!
"What are you doing here?" She asked with a hint of anger towards her. "What are you also doing here?" "This is my home" "I think I got the wrong address, I was looking for Osas"

"She's my friend"

"Ejiro sent me this address.  Can I see her?"

"Osas?" She asked turning her head to the back then back at her with suspicion clearly written all over her face. Why would she be looking for Osas, since she had a hand in their adoption, could Osas be..... She trailed off as Madam Davina cut her  off.

"Osas is a worker, was a worker and I care about my employee too. I heard about everything that happened and I've only come to make sure she's okay"

"She is"

"I'll like to talk to her"

Obianuju folded her hands peering at her, "Let me be sincere, I know you weren't being truthful with me at the club and I'm not happy with you! Come in, I'll go call Osas" She zoomed off angrily and Madam Davina rolled her eyes.

Typical Edosa!

She shut her eyes then she looked up, "How can they be friends?" She muttered walking in then she shut the door.

"Aunty good morning" Osato and Zuwa who were watching cartoons in the sitting room greeted and she smiled at them.

Osas, and Ejiro got in smiling at her, "Good morning Ma" they greeted and Madam Davina gave a gentle nod.

Obianuju got out too.

"You should stop getting into trouble"

"Shebi?" Osas asked, "It's not my fault" she answered and Madam Davina hugged her. "I'm glad you're fine." Osas stiffened, bewildered by her actions. Madam Davina withdrew when she realized she was being unnecessarily emotional. "You should go back to Benin, you'll safe there."

"I go do am later. My brothers sef them gatz go resume school" "Your brothers? You have brothers?"

"Yes. My Mom had two other children. Osato and Zuwa una don greet person?" She asked and Osato nodded, "We greet her as she take enter"

"Okay."

There was a knock and Osas rushed to open the door. She shut it back on seeing Osaze. "Osarieme, please open up!" He begged and she did. "Please Osaze, I don't need this, this morning. I'm leaving for Benin, now" she lied and tears rolled down her eyes.

"Please don't leave"

"I'm sorry, I'm leaving now. I need some time to think and I don't even want to see your face.  I hope you'll understand and give me the space that i want. Please Osaze, please"

Mrs Badmus entered into the hospital ward where Morenike was already dressed in a black gown for work. "I thought they said you're not feeling fine. Why do you look as though you're going to a burial or work?"

"I'm fine, I just had a little problem"

"I have a big one!"

"What?" "Why didn't you inform me you that girl from 15 years ago?" "Because it wasn't necessary"

"Ah! Morenike, what if she decides to sue?" "It's still her word against the two of them without any proof"

"I heard she's dating Osaze. He's a witness, what if?"

"I don't know! I don't think she'll sue"

"Why?"

"Because....  After fifteen years, it doesn't matter anymore, that's common factor, that urge to get Justice for what they did just doesn't come. Well, for the strong ones"

"And you know this because?"

"I'm familiar with cases like this, don't forget I'm a lawyer." "You think she won't report to the police?" "Let's wait and see"

"I'm worried." She sat on the hospital bed then she exhaled, "Why is life so complicated? Why will he have to meet and fall in love with this same girl? Osaze also fell in love with her too, maybe they're paying for their sins, when are we going to pay for ours?"

Osaze walked into Aunt Avia's house and Tiffany cleared her throat walking out. "Who's that?" He asked and Osifo sighed, "Your Aunt's neighbor" he answered then he tapped on the chair and Osaze sat close to him.

"You aunt told me about the rape. Why didn't you tell me?" "You know Mom, she told me not to"

"I'm sorry" Osifo apologized. "I feel like I've failed as a father. I don't even feel worthy to be called one" "Don't say that Dad"

"It's the truth and you know it. Your Mother and I, we got married as a contract, she couldn't have access to her wealth until she gets married." "Couldn't she find another"

"I was the first guy she took interest in. I was engaged to a lady Chioma, very nice woman and I broke off the engagement for her. It wasn't for the money, for the first time I saw something humane in her, a part of her I never saw. She begged me, then we went on several dates and I thought it would work. I was stupid! After the wedding, she didn't take my last name and I wasn't man enough do anything about it."

"I'm sorry"

"I'm the one who's sorry. How is she?" "She found out yesterday, she knows who I am and she's angry. Dad, she's leaving for Benin and I'm as scared as hell. I'm scared she won't come back."

"This is your room Osas, it was Obianuju's room; I hope you'll like it." Mrs Nwosu said turning towards Omo, "I'll show you to your room"
"Why? Don't stress yourself Ma, we'll manage it. Osato and Zuwa already have a room"

"I want you all to be comfortable"

"We're more than comfortable Ma" Osas answered turning towards Obianuju. "Thank you" "What haven't I done?" She asked then she held her mother by the hand.

"Mom, I'll like a word with you" she said and they both stepped out into the room. "Thanks for helping them out Mom" "You're welcome darling. I think it's a really nice thing you're doing." She placed her hands over Obianuju's cheek.

"I am proud of who you're becoming. Aren't you going to work?"

"I will, with the whole redecoration..." She shrugged as tears poured down her eyes, "Mom" "What?"

"Madam Davina came to the house this morning."

"Did she say something to you?"

"No. She came looking for Osas, her reason was that she's an employee but I don't believe it, Mom what if .... I've never considered it but what if Osas is my sister?"

"Are you sure?"

"I'm not. I'm just.... Why will she be so concerned about an employee? The way she hugged her, that care!" "Your sister wasn't brought to Lagos"

"Mom"

"I don't want you giving yourself hope. Why don't you ask her?" "How will I? I just feel it in my heart, what if Osas is my sister?" "Wouldn't it be too much of a coincidence?"

"Like her falling in love with the same guy who witnessed her rape? Mom I'm not shocked at any coincidence again." "Are you going to ask her?"

"I don't know how..... But I definitely will"

The following week

Monday Evening

Mrs Nwosu's house

Osato walked into the room where Osas laid in bed crying. "Aunty Osas" he called out and she instantly wiped her tears sitting up. "Hey Osato, how far? Where Zuwa?" "Him still dey downstairs"

"Night don dey come, tell am make e come sleep before I carry vexilation beat am to sleep. Him dey play shebi?"  "No. Him dey talk to Grandma" he answered gazing upon his sister with compassion in his eyes.

"I hear. No cry again, you go sick oh"

"I no cry"

"But I hear you dey cry" he argued and Osas busted into tears. "I dey okay"  "This brother way dey make you cry sef? I hope say him dey cry as you dey cry so"

Osas chuckled in between her tears, "No brother dey make me cry" "I dey hear you and Sister Omo dey always talk about that Uncle way being dey beg you that  day, the one way carry us for him car"

"Aproko!" She snapped and they both chuckled. "Wetin the brother do?" He asked and Osas cried. "I no fit tell you, you no go understand, you too small to understand"

"Ehn, no cry again now. You go make me cry oh"

Omo walked in, "Na una get tears plenty for eyes to cry. Na family tears!" She snapped and Osas rolled her eyes, on second thought, it reminded her of Chika.

"Aunty Omo welcome"

"Thank you dear. Don't tell me your sister is still mopping over this thing. Na you dey form say you dey vex with the guy, na you still dey call him name before you sleep, choose a side, you're either angry with or not"

"I just taya!" Osas confessed, "Life no just fair with me" "Life is not fair to anyone, well your own case they always carry twenty head but what the hell, you'll scale through like you always do" she sat close to her and Osas cried.

"So Osaze no fit come see me"

"No be Benin you dey form say you dey? This same Osaze way call my phone two days ago way you shout for? The one way you no wan talk to" "No be for am to call, them tell am say naim voice I wan listen to?"  She asked and Omo scoffed.

"Shuu? So you wan see him face. So you no vex with am again?"

"I still dey vex"

"Why you come want make him come?" Osato was forced to ask, "I no understand oh" he added and Omo laughed. "Woman palaver! No be small!" 

Wednesday

Osaze woke up looking into the mirror, I can't do this anymore. I know I'm supposed to give you time Osas, but I can't. I need to go to Benin, I need to see you and I won't leave, not until I'm fully forgiven. That's my plan". He forced a smile.

"I'm doing this! Im going to Benin" he say now touching his beard, "Do something about this first"

Mrs Bello's driver drove out of the house and Folabi and he stood in front of the car. "Ah! Who is that?" She asked and the driver exhaled, "It's that journalist guy" he got out meeting him.

"Will you get out of the road? Do you have a death wish?" He asked, "My name is Folabi Badmus and i wish to speak to Mrs Bello"

"She doesn't have the time"

"Then I'm not leaving here."

"Is it until I run you over?"

"Run me over then" 

"What if I beat you up now?"

"I'd like to see you do it, that'll be better. As a journalist, I know what to write and it's not going to look good on Chief Bello's portfolio." He snapped and the guy hesitated returning back to the car. "Ma, he said he's not leaving. Should I run him over?"

"Haba! No! What will people say? That we're really murderers? Just teach him a lesson. "He said he'll report it"

"All this stupid journalist! What should I do?" She asked then she exhaled getting out of the car to meet him. "Oya name your price"

"What price?"

"Everyone has a price"

"You think I can be bought" "Wo, I don't have the time for this, what do you want?" "How do you live with yourself knowing what your husband does to make his money?" He asked and she looked away.

"See, I don't have the time for rubbish!"

"Your husband killed those girls that night and you know it" "How is it your concern?" "Among those girls was my sister, Adetutu. She died in the most gruesome way and Osas witnessed it!"

"You want to record me shebi? Is that it? My husband is innocent, I don't know what you're saying so excuse me!" She hissed leaving.

"You have three daughters right? Imagine this happening to one of them"

Mrs Bello turned to him snapping her hands forward at him. "It's you that it will happen to! Oponu! You will not get out of here"

"I leave you to your conscience Ma'am. If you have any" he answered leaving and Mrs Bello entered into the car then she bit her nails.

Eniola lifted the newspaper up while drinking a cup of coffee.

The devil roams free because of his advocate!

She skimmed through the news that she finally reads the rest out. "How long will we fold our hands while the legal system support the elite instead of the masses? Chief Akinola is guilty and should be brought to book. Afolabi Badmus',  Wow, this guy is unbelievable!" She hissed throwing the newspaper away. 

Her phone rang then she picked it up.

Osaze walked out of the airplane then he smiled putting a call through to Omo, "Hey! Good morning Omo" He said to her, "Good morning Osaze" "Where's the address, where do you guys stay in Benin?" "Why are you asking?"

"It's a surprise, just drop me an address, don't tell Osas but I'm here"

"Where?"

"Where else? I'm in Edo State, where do you guys stay?" "Jesus! Why didn't you tell me?" "That's the whole point of the surprise"

"Well.... How can I say this? We're not in Benin"

"What?"

"We're still in Lagos, Osas lied to get you off her back. We're staying with Obianuju's parents"

"Osaze shut her eyes, "She knew and she didn't tell me. Now I'm mad"  "Sorry" Omo answered, "Huh... Yeah" he answered ending the call then he called Raymond.

"Osas didn't Lagos but you couldn't tell, what kind of friend are you?" "Huh.... I promised Nuju and then I promised Osas, I'm sorry, how did you find out?"

"I'm in Benin"

"Why?"

"I decided to pay a visit to my grandparent's grave, what other reason? I came to surprise Osas"  "Ehya, sorry"

"I hate you right now"

Raymond laughed, "No vex. Shebi Kubiat and i was using style to tell you not to go" "Was I the only one that didn't know what was going on?" "Actually, you and Obinna. Sorry Man, I just had to do it, no hard feelings"

"Oh there's hard feeling oh. Very hard one" 

Omo entered into the room, "Them dey show nice Nigerian movie like this" "I no get interest" "Guess who just call me?" "Who? Imade? She still dey talk that man matter?" "No! Osaze"

Osas frowned, "I no get interest" she replied and Omo walked out, "Come now!" She answered and Omo laughed entering into the room. "Big head! Na me you follow do shakara?"  "Somebody cannot play with you? Wetin him talk?"

"You no go believe where him dey. He's in Benin"

Osas gasped, "You no mean am! Why him no talk now?" "He wanted to surprise you" Omo replied and Osas busted out laughing. "Osaze Sabi mumu sometimes oh. Ehya, him don go for nothing, him for call you at least"

Eniola pulled her car over in front of a newspaper company; Probers. She got out of the car with the newspaper in her hands then she dashed into the building meeting the secretary at the front desk.

"Hello, good morning. My name is Barrister Eniola Badmus"

"Another lawyer here to sue. I guess I'll just forward you to the right office" "No. I'm looking for someone by name Folabi Badmus"

"Oh. The freelance journalist? Is he your brother?" "Iew! No!" She answered batting her eyes at the nosy woman who Instantly pointed at Folabi, "Look at him there, he's so handsome. Mr Folabi" she waved her hands and He waved back.

"You didn't tell you were married, it's like your wife is looking for you oh" she added and Eniola scoffed turning back at him. "God forbid!" She snapped, "Even God forbade it before you spoke"

"Oh please" Eniola waved her hands, "What are you doing here?" He asked and she passed an envelope to him. "What's this?" "Don't you have eyes?"

Folabi scoffed, he forcefully collected the envelope then he removed the contents going through it. "A restraining order" "Yes. Next time you harass Chief Bello or any member of his family, you'll be arrested" 

"I didn't harass anyone"

"It didn't sound that way."

"Okay. I just needed to speak to wife" "Why? Are you a gigolo too?" "Yes, maybe I'm particularly interested in your mother" 

Eniola scoffed and he exhaled, "I'm sorry, that came out of turn but you should really watch your mouth, young lady" "The name is Barrister"

"I don't care!"

"Will you stop writing stupid articles about Chief Akinola?"

"Stupid article?" He asked now raising his voice, "Freedom of speech, freedom of Press, you talk about my ignorance, I actually thought as a lawyer you'd know that i have full rights to write whatever I want. It's bad you guys just restrained my freedom of movement, you want to stop me from writing too? Never!"

"Can someone put a leash on this dog? He's barking!"

"I would have called you a bitch of not that my mother trained me not to insult women! Chief Akinola is guilty and I'll keep on talking about it day by day until it sinks into everyone's head!"

"How do you know he's guilty? Cause of Osas"

"That man and his friends killed my sister and Osas witnessed it! Permit me to act like a dog cause it's my little sister that was killed not  yours!" He yelled in tears and Eniola flinched.

He rolled his eyes, looked away then walked out of the building.

Osaze knocked on the door and Mrs Nwosu opened up smiling at Osaze. "Good afternoon Ma" "Good afternoon to you too" she replied inviting him in.

Omo, Osato and Zuwa turned heads at him then Osato walked up to him while Zuwa ran up the stairs to call Osas. "Uncle, good afternoon oh, but who you dey find?" He asked and Mrs Nwosu gasped, "Of course he wants to see your sister"

"I don't want him to see her!"

"Why?"

"He will make my sister cry."

"Osato"

"Ma, I don't like it when sister Osas cry," this time he turned to him, "Sister don suffer too much, no come add to am. At least she no cry again, if she see you, she go come start to the cry"

"I'm sorry" Osaze replied, "I know you're saying this in your sisters best interest and I understand. Personally I think its sweet sticking up for your big sister and all but I'm not the bad guy here. I know I made her cry but it wasn't intentional, I love Osas and I'm ready then do her right. I want to spend the rest of my life making up for all the hurts, I want to spend the rest of my life making her happy"

Osas listened in to his confession and she smiled then she hid the smile underneath a frown. She walked towards him folding her hands, "What do you want?"

"Osas I'm sorry, I know I don't deserve you. I know I made a mistake and I should have shown you support and I should have told you when I found out about this and ....." He stared at her frowning face and he felt discouraged.

"I love you Osas, I really do love you with all my heart and soul, but you're obviously still angry at me. You know I went to Benin this morning, I didn't even know you were still in Lagos. By the way, I'll.bw holding grudges against Mrs Obianuju Raymond and Kubiat for a very long time."

Osas withheld her laughter, "I know that I'm supposed to give you space but this morning I was ready to damn all consequences and see you, I missed you, I missed your face, I missed your smile, your laughter, I miss everything about you, your lips, particularly your lips" he confessed and she pulled close to him kissing on the lips and his eyes widened in surprise but he kissed her too then he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"I'm surprised"

"Me too. The only reason I'm kissing is for the stress of going to Benin, don't even start having ideas" she answered and he raised his brow, "Lies! Admit it, you missed me too but I'm sure it's not as much as I missed you" 

Osas chuckled biting her lips, "I miss you too" she sniffled his shirt, "I miss that smell, and I miss your lips too" she confessed her lips hovering over his then she turned back at Osato and Zuwa.

"Make una close una eyes!" She warned and everyone laughed.

"So you're not angry anymore"

"I don't hold grudges that much so let's say, my anger remains tintili (small)" she answered beaming with excitement. Osaze claimed her lips and she wrapped her arms around his neck, accepting the kiss with so much joy.

Yay!!! Our couples are back together oooo💓💓💓

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Very lengthy! 😪

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If you're to celebrate women in this book, who will you celebrate?😊