《JUNE BREAK》


 Episode 1

    It was on a sunny day in June, unlike other raining days that feet hardly step out of the house due to the cloudy weather.


    I got into my car and hit the road to see Mom who just returned home from UK after a sessful surgery.


    I usually speak to my Dad over the phone ever since my Mom left for UK.


    My Dad has always been an active man he supported and cared for all his children with everything he got.


    Let me go back to the very beginning how it all started.


    I used to be the only girl and also thest born of the house.


    Call me baby of the house and I will dly answer because almost everyone treated me like a baby.


    My eldest brother was settled in UK with his family which was where Mom went to and her surgery was sessful done.


    My second elder brother, Mark has a business he runs sessfully.


    He was an electrical engineer and also into bureau de change, where he exchange other hard currency for better and easy transaction.


    He was doing well and already had a fiance he intend to marry before year end.


    They were engaged around March and nned to get married by November that year.


    November is usually a perfect time to settle down.


    When the weather smells nice and romantic, and the atmosphere feels cool to the skin.


    When people don¡¯t have to be afraid or worry about rain spoiling their asion, everyone also prepares for Christmas festive holiday.


    November is sweet and memorable and so also is April.


    Well, maybe because my parents named me April and I happened to love my name.


    They said I was born around Easter period and having two boys already before me. I was tender and sweet, they couldn¡¯te up with a perfect usual name for a girl because Mom thought she will be having a boy again.


    She had the same pregnancy symptoms, cramps and belle size like she did when she was pregnant for the boys.


    Since she already knew in her mind that it was going to be a boy she did not bother going for a scan.


    My Dad told her it will be a girl but Mom seem certain because she was sure of her pregnancy body changes.


    Untill I was born and proved her all wrong.


    I came in time for Easter and if not that a name like Easter sound weird and funny they could have called me so.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    April brought me to them and I was showered with maximum love and care without doubt.


    I enjoyed thest born palliative for five years before Rachel came.


    She was born in February 28th which was thest day of the month.


    She was equally special and took over from where I stopped, the enjoyment ofst child.


    Yes, she literally took everything from me including the attention.


    I never mind, I still get my share of the care once in a while.


    Rachel was beautiful and also fair like my Mom.


    Her skin was like that of ss, it glitters. Her beauty was outstanding and many couldn¡¯t help butpliment her.


    I was also beautiful in my own way with a little mnin light skin.


    They used to count me as one of the most beautiful in my basic junior ss back then. It feels so good whenever I get suchpliment but as the years goes by thepliment was no longering like usual.


    they usually apud my physical looks because they haven¡¯t seen my sister who will pass for miss world.


    You will think life was very perfect for me, well not really but it used to be. I feel like it used to be untill it took a different turn.


    The turn started one day in the month of June.


    Yes, June 13th 2016 was the day, month and year it all started.


    If I forget everything, I will never forget this day.

 Episode 2.

    ¡°April¡­ April¡­ wakeup¡­ April..¡±


    That was my second elder brother¡¯s voice tapping me awake.


    Mark had always had this loving caring nature but he can be so annoyingly too.


    They say is normal for siblings to get in each others nerves sometime.


    That wasn¡¯t different from my siblings.


    I opened my eyes, my seventeen years old self actually dozed off in our sitting room.


    I looked up at Mark and saw his long face.


    ¡°What happened?


    ¡°Why did you take the money I kept under my pillow?


    I try to sit up because he looks like he was ready for trouble.


    ¡°What money¡­ I didn¡¯t see your money Mark¡­¡±


    ¡°April, I kept that money for a purpose and you have no right to go into my room and take it. this isn¡¯t the first time and is no longer funny that you have be a thief and nothin is safe in this house any more¡­¡±


    ¡°Uhmmm Mark, first of all I did not go into your room or take your money.. secondly, I¡¯m not a thief, is better you stop calling me that or I will tell Mom. Go and look for your money and leave me alone¡­ I have never taken anything that is yours before without asking you first¡­¡±


    I was standing to his face as I voice out my own annoyance. It angers me that he had to call me a thief. I¡¯m thest person that I will go around taking people¡¯s things without thinking.


    I can¡¯t wait to get into school. I would have been in the university by now but I had dy and sincest year I finished high school I have been home hoping and waiting.


    Maybe that is why they can use me as they please.


    It used to be Rachel always asking or searching for her stuffs which she kept carelessly and now Mark had joined the queue.


    Who knows who else will follow next.


    ¡°Rachel told me that you were the one that took the money¡­ she saw you go into my room this morning¡­¡±


    ¡°, She¡¯s lying¡­ Mark. Believe me I never went to your room or take your money. I have never done that¡­¡±


    He looks confused but someone still have to take the me and Rachel was the little sweet princess who can do no wrong.


    While I on the other hand takes most of the mes.


    Rachel does something and I will be med for it.


    Is sad but there was no escaping.


    Mark did not want to escte the issue he angrily walked away.


    I felt so bad and went out to look for Rachel.


    She was no where to be found.


    She supposed to be back from school looking at the time.


    Is already  4pm. Maybe she had after ss lesson¡¯s to attend to.


    She was already in senior high school, she got promoted twice in school making her skip some sses and now she was about to be graduated at age thirteen.


    She seems to be getting all the favor even from God, my parents, siblings and general public.


    She was the most favored.


    I never mind before but recently I can¡¯t help but feel bad.


    I wish I was thest born of the house who still gets the attention and care.


    Everyone thinks I¡¯m grown, unlike Rachel who will always be the baby of the house no matter how old she was.


    If I have to be sincere, sometimes I wish she wasn¡¯t born but I¡¯m still grateful to have a sister.


    I didn¡¯t fail to ask her why she told Mark that I was the one that stole her money she didn¡¯t answer me.


    Even when Mark said I should drop the issue, I didn¡¯t listen.


    ¡°You can¡¯t go around telling people that I steal when you never even caught me once. Except you stole it and looking for who will be the scape goat and I perfectly fit into the idea of a thief as usual. Stop that nonsense Rachel¡­ is not longer funny. don¡¯t take my quietness for granted because next time I will react and you may not like what I will. This is all expensive jokes and I¡¯m not finding it funny anymore¡­ be warned.


    Her eyes was fixed on the television and she did not even turn to look at me or reply.


    Whenever this sort of thing happens she will be speechless and not having any word to defend herself but on a normal day Rachel is always defensive.


    She likes ying the victim every time she did something wrong.


    This was part of my ordeal in the house and it all started after Rachel was born.


    My parents heard of the missing money and you can guess the first person their eyes was focused on, me off course.


    ¡°I¡¯m raising you all to be better in life¡­ don¡¯t allow the devil to use you and bring shame to us and to yourself. April, if you¡¯re the one that took Mark¡¯s money return it and never you do that again. Whenever you need something you ask me or your mother. At your age you should be a good example to your sister. Rachel behaves well and I know she can never do such a thing as taking what is not hers. Please¡­ for God sake, stick to the good morals that holds this family together. I don¡¯t want to hear anything like this again¡­ hope I¡¯m clear¡±?


    I try to defend myself that I wasn¡¯t the one but none of them are ready to believe or even listen.


    I went to my room to suck like a child.


    It was very painful and I couldn¡¯t just keep quiet.


    As I went to join my Mom in making dinner that evening I raised the topic, hoping she will believe and all she said was.


    ¡°April, no one is using you. But look at it this way¡­ your elder brother David is out in the UK studying, Mark is in school and also helps your Dad¡¯s friend in his electrical engineering shop during holidays, the little money he gets he saves it for  his future ns, is very unfair for anyone to go and take it. It makes it seems like nothing is safe again in this house¡­ which is called for worries. Your sister is small and not the type that will take what isn¡¯t hers¡­


    ¡°Mom, Rachel is almost thirteen¡­ she is not a baby. Why not ask her too before looking at me as the ck sheep. What if she was the one that took the money but med it on me so that she will remain the little princess¡­¡± I said to my Mom while cutting the onions.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not turn this into argument April, just stick to the warning. Don¡¯t take what is not yours. Ask whenever you¡¯re in need of something¡­¡±


    I couldn¡¯t win this, no matter how I try. It was a total waste of time.


    And that was how I epted what I never did.


    I¡¯m not trying to y saint but this was how the politics run in my house and I hate it.


    This was the reason June became very important to me but we¡¯re on a long way to getting there.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    I want to tell you everything before you judge me without knowing the whole story.

 Episode 3

    Another year came for me to write a university entry exam but my parents said I should hold on because there was not enough cash for fees due to the big money that was spent on Rachel new international boarding school that she was changed into.


    I was running out of patient but waiting an extra year won¡¯t be bad right but the point is how do i?


    Waiting until next year will almost kill me because I¡¯m tired of staying home, doing nothing and getting unnecessarily used


    If my parents will let me get a job, I don¡¯t care about the pay all I¡¯m more after is to be leaving the house daily.


    Maybe I will be orded some recognition and respect.


    I summoned courage and told my Dad about it but he shut me off


    ¡°What do you need a Job for? Did I or your mother tasked you into paying of the rent or feeding? I don¡¯t understand you April, what is your reason for wanting to get a job? We only asked you to hold on for sometime concerning your school because we need to be financially ready. Your sister, Rachel fees is quiet huge and we just paid off the fees with other things. We¡¯re running low on cash and need to be well footed before any other huge expenses pops up. We exined our reasons for not agreeing to your University entry this year and all we asked is time to sort things through. I expect you to understand April, noting up with this nonsense ideas of yours¡­¡±


    ¡°But Dad, I have been home for two years already. Last year was due to the same financial story, year beforest was because of Rachel and again now¡­ I¡¯m just tired of staying home. I need to do something before I go insane. I¡¯m ready to wait but I can¡¯t stay home waiting until there¡¯s enough money for me to start school. Please¡­ I really need this Dad. I¡¯m just going to get any job that will make mee home early¡­ I won¡¯t be staying outte or be wayward if that¡¯s what you¡¯re afraid of. Please¡­ I need this Dad¡±


    Heter promised to think about it and the following day he was done thinking.


    He gave me his usualw that will be guiding whatever kind of job I find to do and when exactly I should be home.


    I took it all in and nothing matters again because i will be leaving the house.


    I took a week to go job hunting not too far but certainly where I can transport to.


    Iter got one in a bakery and was asked to resume immediately because they needed extra hand.


    I excitedly resumed and that was how I started my first job


    I still have school in mind and if I can save enough money from the bakery shop I will be able to support my parents in paying my fees.


    After a month I got my first pay and I couldn¡¯t hold back my joy.


    I was encouraged by a colleague to open bank ount of which I told my parents.


    My dad said I should do whatever I please with the token that I¡¯m been paid.


    I opened the bank ount and began to save.


    I was enjoying my work and also learning how to bake all kinds of snacks.


    The constant usations and my siblings calling me out over every fault reduced.


    Sometimes i even bring home snacks.


    One day, my Dad called and asked me if I can help my sister out with the drama costume she wanted to buy for herself and her group members


    She was obviously the drama cheerleader and had promised to buy costume for each person in her drama ss for their uing dramapetition


    But the issue is Rachel has no money yet she was making all those promises.


    When she told my Mom, my Mom talked to my Dad about it and he agreed to give her the money but again he does not have it right away and decided to ask me to help out.


    When my Dad asked me to help my sister out, I was willingly to do so but after realizing the whole amount it was way too much.


    Is not just going to eat deep into my months of savings but also going to squander my own ns.


    I have ns and things I wanted to do with money which is mainly my uing university school runs and I have been saving towards that so that I can also assist my Dad to avoid another excuses.


    And now everyone was looking up to me to help Rachel cover up all the costume expenses.


    After much persuasion I gave in and everyone was happy.


    I after giving out my savings, nothing much was left but as far as everyone is happy I¡¯m happy.


    I will start saving again and soon enough I will make it up.


    I kept to my dad¡¯s rules and try not to do anything that will make him to stop me from working.


    But that was untill I met Louis.


    He was cute and handsome and also smart.


    We get along very well until our ordinary friendship became something more.


    I kept it all to myself and did not mention it to anyone because if my Dad finds out I will be in serious trouble.


    Rachel was rounding up with her final high school exams and my Dad already purchased a university entry form for her.


    I was pained when I discovered that I will be sitting for the same exam with my kid sister.


    My Dad said even though the money was not really avable but he has enrolled both of us.


    I know if anything should happen or the money happened not to be enough anymore one person had to step down and it¡¯s not Rachel is definitely going to be me because they will expect me as the elder sister to understand.


    I started making ns of my own because the favoritism was bing too much.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    I sacrificed my savings for my sister yet no one is considering that.


    I don¡¯t have enough money for back up if anything should happen.


    Louis will be traveling to another city soon to resume his new office and he has been begging me toe along with him.


    He loves me and I do love him too because he is the only one that understand and listens when I need a listening ear.


    I told him that I can¡¯t, is impossible.


    But after much thought I was begining to reconsider.


    I don¡¯t want to be in a house or family where I¡¯m not wanted or loved and even my little effort is not recognized.


    I have a better n and when my mind is fully made up there will be no looking back.

 Episode 4

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I couldn¡¯t fully make up my mind on what exactly to do.


    Anytime I thought I¡¯m fully ready to take the bold step and leave one thing or the other will hold me back and is mostly my homely upbringing.


    My parents tried their best in making sure their children doesn¡¯te out wayward or gangster types and all we ever did is to make them proud and to assure them that we won¡¯t be influence by worldly lifestyle.


    Well, that¡¯s exactly how much I respected my parents but their attitude towards me continued giving me a head strong to change that narrative.


    As much as I want to be the good girl they wanted me to be I hate to be their second best


    I don¡¯t want to be unappreciated or overlooked in my own home.


    I want to be where I will be appreciated and noticed.


    I don¡¯t want to be a second choice and I¡¯m only still here because I¡¯m hoping my parents will truly change.


    Louis asked me to make up my mind fast because he needs to leave soon and the reason why he kept dying is because of me.


    I asked him to give me just a week and after then I will give him feedback if I¡¯m staying or leaving to the city with him.


    A week was too much but he agreed to stay.


    Actually, I was afraid to just take off like that and I wish I can get enough reason to stay.


    I was ready to ignore all the special affection showered on Rachel.


    After all she was my kid sis and she deserves to be treated with love. There shouldn¡¯t be anypetition to that but I wish I can sometimes get a pinch of the whole care.


    But then is alright, maybe with time my parents and every other person will also learn to notice and appreciate me.


    I try to console myself with this thoughts and was already nning to inform Louis that I won¡¯t be going with him anymore.


    We can keep a distance rtionship and nothing will change.


    It was insane to just leave my family and disappear.


    I want to go to school under their watch and care, be a woman my parents will be proud off.


    Leaving may devastate them or probably not but I don¡¯t have the nerve yet to leave.


    This was my whole thought until thest straw hit me in a bad corner.


    Rachel was exempted from doing dishes and any household chores because she will be writing exams soon. She needs to really prepare while I was ced to do all the house chores despite how tired I am must time I return back from work.


    I also had a university exam I needed to prepare for too but no one is considering that. So even if I fail is none of their business but they can¡¯t afford for Rachel to fail because she remains their favorite.


    I have had enough, I can¡¯t take this anymore.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    Louis will be leaving for the big city tomorrow and although I have informed him that I won¡¯t be going again, I have a change of mind.


    I called and told him not to leave without me.


    I packed few important things into a backpack to avoid looking suspecious.


    I took onest look around the house before stepping out.


    As I was about walking out of the gate I thought of dropping atleast a written note.


    I slowly walked back to the house and ran into my Moming out of the kitchen.


    ¡°I thought you were gone already, you forgot something?


    I nodded as I kept walking


    She called my attention again and said.


    ¡°April, Don¡¯t forget to return home early, theundry needs to be done. Especially your sister¡¯s two weekend wears are there and I know she will be using one of them thising Saturday. She mentioned her friends will being around and she needs to look good. Try and be home early to do theundry, ironing and other chores. I can¡¯t be doing certain things when I have a grown woman like you in the house. So aside theundry you will also be making dinner. Also remember to bring home some snacks from the bakery for your sister¡¯s friends who will be visiting her on Saturday¡­ hope you understand?


    I made a funny smirk face and replied


    ¡°Yes Mom¡­ totally¡±


    I walked back to my room write few words in a paper, wrap it up and dropped it on the bed before finally walking out without looking back.

 Episode 5

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I sat quietly beside Louis as he drives on.


    I kept thinking of my actions again.


    I seriously wish things were a little different but is useless crying over a spilled milk.


    We have been on the road for over four hours, is a very long drive and I have tried to force sleep, maybe with a little sleep I will be able to forget it all and feel rx but sleep kept a clear distance.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    I rxed my head one side as Louis continue driving.


    He tries to cheer me up, he engaged me in a conversation, he bought food and my favorite drink.


    None of that could cheer me up.


    If not that I have had enough trouble chew on, I have been pushed real hard to the wall and can no longer take in more which prompted this journey, if not all of this I wouldn¡¯t have embarked on this unknown trip.


    Is another road to nowhere but no matter where the road leads I¡¯m not going back


    There¡¯s no going back for me. For summoning the courage to leave was a huge calcted steps.


    I was invisible, unknown in my house. No one acknowledges me or the whole effort I put in.


    They underrated me and took me for granted.


    My Dad will say I¡¯m too selfish when I try to hold back some of my savings. him and my Mom will ask me why exactly I¡¯m saving money when they are still feeding and taking care of me.


    If they needed the money for themselves I will try to understand because they are my parents but wanting to use it for Rachel most times is what pisses me off.


    Rachel does not respect or appreciate me in anyway.


    She gets away with all her insults and my parents want to turn me into a maid, a servant to Rachel.


    That I can¡¯t take. Enough of the discrimination, enough of the belittling attitude. I have had enough of everything and there is no space to take in more.


    ¡°Are you having a double mind? I can spare some time and drive you back to the closest bus stop  to home. I would have taken you back but I can¡¯t afford to miss my work appointment which is thising Monday. Whatever decision you decide April I¡¯m here to support you. I¡¯m cool with whatever choice you make¡­¡±


    I sighed heavily and replied


    ¡°I¡¯m not going back Louis, maybe not soon. My mind is actually made up on this. I¡¯m only wishing things were little different, I would not have had reason to Leave in the first ce. I¡¯m sorry that I have to drag you into this¡­¡±


    Louis told me to stop worrying that everything will be fine.


    I kept trying to engage my mind with other things but I can¡¯t stop thinking about home.


    Home means everything to me, I don¡¯t know if I will ever stop thinking of it.


    I was rather in a haste when I meet up with Louis because I was afraid that I may change my mind but sitting down here I feel sad that I had to leave the way I did.


    No goodbye or hugs. No prayer from my parents or kind wishes from my siblings.


    That is more reason why I¡¯m sad but I can¡¯t go back now.


    I shut my eyes and try to imagine the great things the future holds for me.


    Even in my imagination I can¡¯t help but think of home.


    I managed to sleep off after a while.


    Louister tapped me awake that we have arrived.


    I yawned tiredly, looked around. It was not home.


    I was at a strange ce. A smallpound fenced.


    This wasn¡¯t home, what am I doing here?


    That was my first thought until realization hit me.


    I sighed angrily, came down and pick up my back pack which contains just few of my stuffs.


    I followed Louis inside his apartment which was a room and parlour safe contain


    It was a small apartment but was well furnished and neat.


    I felt so awkward as I stood like a stranger not knowing what next


    Louis try to show me around the house, I wasn¡¯t really paying attention.


    I kept wondering what my people will be doing at that moment. Maybe they are searching for me.


    Probably gone to the bakery but I¡¯m not there. Ask few people but none knows of my whereabouts.


    There was no contact to reach me which makes it more troubling.


    I know my parents phone and brothers too but I¡¯m not going to call any.


    What if they are happy that I¡¯m gone and felt burden free because now they will concentrate more on Rachel.


    What if the reason why they will miss me is because there will be nobody to act as the maid.


    Nobody to take mes for Rachel¡¯s actions. Nobody to run around for Rachael and serve her as the queen of the house.


    Well, is good that I won¡¯t be truly missed because that would have made me feel real bad.


    I¡¯m not missing anyone too. It bnce up that way.


    ¡°Are you listening to any thing I just said? Louis asked as he brought back my attention.


    I looked at him confused.


    ¡°¡­ I see you needs lots of rest. Go take your bath while I fix something for dinner. I will be sleeping in the sitting room. You can have the room all to yourself. And please feel at home. Don¡¯t be scared of anything. You know that I respect and love you. This maybe a hard time for you, I will always be here if you need me¡­¡±


    I nodded as I try to smile.


    He showed me the bathroom and gave me a neat towel to use.


    I thanked him and went in to shower.


    I really can¡¯t continue thinking of my people.


    Maybe is time to embrace the present and look out for whatever the future has in store.

 Episode 6

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    The first weeks was quiet tough, it was difficult coping in my new environment.


    No matter how much I try to forget home I can¡¯t seem to forget.


    Louis was able to get the job and was mostly away during the first two months leaving me alone in the house.


    That was the toughest period of my life but I was able to cope through.


    I try to upy my mind with movies.


    Louis was making sure I had enough food and drinks, movies and phone game.


    He got me an Android, I was only ying game with it because I don¡¯t have much contact to save in it.


    Louis was the real definition of a gentleman


    He permanently made the sitting room his sleeping ce.


    I told him that we can share the room but he said he will rather decline.


    ¡°Is risk enough that I agree to take you along to the city when you asked, living with me still does not give me right over you April. Your people may even use me of forceful kidnaping. As much I understand the huge risk that was involved in this whole thing, I was ready to do the little i can to make you happy April. I just wanted to see you happy¡­ I felt your sadness and hurt each time youin about the way you were been treated at home. You know I love you right? and my love for you has nothing to do with your beauty or body, I like your personality¡­ and love you like a sister. The same way I will treat my kid sis is same way I will treat you April. You¡¯re special with great potential. I may not be able to give you everything you need but I will keep trying my best to make sure I do the little that I can for you¡­¡±


    I smile and replied.


    ¡°Thanks Louise, I appreciate. Maybe I should go look for job instead of staying home and doing nothing. What do you think?


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea. Like I said that I will try my very best to make sure you have food and every other necessary things. You¡¯re too young to be out there, is a dangerous world April and the risk as a teenager is high. I want to protect you from the world danger¡­¡±


    I smile. It feels good listening to him say those words but I don¡¯t fully agree with him.


    ¡°You can¡¯t protect me because life itself is a risk. If I don¡¯t take the risk I took I will still be home. I will be turning eighteen soon, so I¡¯m not a kid. Forget the fact that my parents treated me like a maid, dyed my entry to the university, make me feel less of myself¡­ but in all this I know my right and what I want out of life. Food and shelter is not just the only thing I need. I need to discover myself Louis. I need to start working so that I can be able to save up for school. Because I still want to go to the university and I need money for that to happen. I love and appreciate everything Louis but I didn¡¯t run away from home toe and eat and sleep in your house. I want to discover myself now and not go home the same way I came. The mockery will be doubled¡­.¡±


    He stared at me in disbelief when I told him that i don¡¯t want to go back home the same way.


    I was grinning.


    ¡°You¡¯re smart and intelligent April and that¡¯s why I love you.


    The following week I started searching for job.


    Louis helped me to get my CV done


    I submitted my CV in any vacant work ce I came across.


    Iter got a job as a marketer, it was a new product. My job is to go around introducing it to differentpanies and market people.


    Is more like a contract job, the  more people buy from me will determine how much I get at the end of the month.


    Louis try to talk me out of it, saying is stressful, dangerous and time consuming.


    He mentioned that men will start checking me out with promises at the end it won¡¯t worth it.


    He also said why they employed me as a marketer is because I¡¯m a beautiful young girl and many people will want to listen to me easily when I try to introduce the product to them.


    I told him that I just want to explore and the Job looks like what I can do.


    I thought his only concern was because of other men checking me out which I was ready to handle.


    But after three weeks, I was so stressed out plus other little troubles I had to face during the marketing job.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Louis was the one giving me transport fare and I know is not very easy on him because it was just few months he started working in the new ce.


    My joy was I will soon get my own sry and I wouldn¡¯t have to depend on him for transport fare.


    But after six weeks I know I had to stop.


    I quit without getting paid. They said I didn¡¯t bring much expected customer.


    It was supposed to be from the proceeds that I will get paid but since I was poor in my duty no payment for me.


    That was not true at all. I did well on the job despite the difficulties I encountered. I was able to bring lots of customers to them through that short period


    Truthfully, it was not the kind of marketing job I wanted but I still put in my best but got nothing in return.


    I was pained because my whole effort was in vain and Louis was right at the end.


    I started another job hunt relentlessly.


    Louis also promise to look out for any good opportunity.


    I got one as a customer care, more like a sales representative in a big supermarket and resumed right away.


    I¡¯m hoping this time will be different.


    I started off on a wrong foot, I will do all I can to make it on the right foot this time around.


    That was how my journey kicked off.

 Episode 7

    I carefully arranged my cloths on the bed, brought out a matching shoe with hang bag.


    I was grinning from ear to ear as I stood and looked at all the beautiful arrangements and how amazing I will be looking in them.


    The outfit was a gift from Louis for my eighteenth birthday.


    That was three weeks ago. There was no party but Louis made sure I had a great time.


    His car was bad, he had spent so much on it already with no good result. He decided to park it down.


    On my birthday he called a taxi that came over to pick us.


    We toured round the city before going to a cool garden to chill.


    It was a exceptional moment of my life because I have never experienced such special treatment.


    Louis made it happen and I really felt very important and loved.


    Back at home, I doubt if they will even remember.


    My Mom forgot my fifteenth and sixteenth birthday.


    Even after telling her she was still doubting saying it was April 15th instead of 13th.


    It was after sometime she remembered and the only apology she rendered for forgetting my real birthday was


    ¡°I have so many things on my head. And your birthday is confusing sometimes.  My due date was supposed to be 15th but Iter gave birth on 13th. So I still think of 15th as your birthday. But your sister Rachel was just urate. That¡¯s why I can¡¯t forget her birthday. Anyway, happy birthday April. get read so that you will go and buy food items in the market. Your sister said she is craving for coconut rice and chicken. Is been a while we had that, it will be good dinner. Don¡¯t you agree?¡­¡±


    I told her that I agree off course.


    I was not happy. The only day that is about me she still find a away to bring in Rachel and made it about her.


    I feel pained but having coconut rice and chicken as dinner healed my hurt sooner than expected.


    Looking back now, I feel bad and wish I was treated with special attention and Rachel is not taking over everything.


    Maybe by now they will remember my real birthday or probably forget about everything that has to do with me.


    I can make silly, unnecessary excuses for my Dad but I don¡¯t see any reason to do same for my Mom.


    Even if my Dad forgets, my Mom supposed to remember seventy percent of the details if not hundred.


    She was the one that carried the pregnancy, suffered the whole hormone  imbnce, go throughbour war before giving birth.


    How is it possible for her to forget it all.


    Although it may be possible if the child is not on favorite list.


    I hate to look back because there is a sprinkle of sad and lonely days in it


    To the present, looking at my beautiful wear, it feels so good.


    Louis was the real definition of a gentleman. Maybe he is my reward for everything I went through back at home.


    This will be the second time I will be putting on the dress. The first been on my birthday, a great outing with Louis.


    This time around will be for my office 15th anniversary.


    The supermarket where I work will be celebrating their fifteenth years anniversary and there will be big a big party.


    My boss asked all the staffs to be in their best outfit, best behavior and best service because dignitaries will being to grace the asion.


    I was picked as one of the staffs that will be serving the VIPs.


    It feels real good and I will be on my very best today.


    I quickly got dressed and just when I was majestically stepping out Louis who happens to be at home that Saturday asked.


    ¡°Must you go?


    Is that even a question? A party that I have so much look forward to.


    Was he expecting an answer


    ¡°Offcourse Louis, is important for all staff, so must be there.


    He nodded and said while getting up from the seat


    ¡°You look good April. All eyes will be on you today¡­ especially the men. Maybe I should get dressed ande along¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a good idea. We were not asked to bring our family or friends but even if you happen toe¡­ I wouldn¡¯t have time for you because I have a special assignment. I will be attending to the special invitees¡­ the dignitaries. They will be in a different canopy. You may not get to see me untill the end of the party and everything is cleared¡­¡±


    He paused and stare at me


    ¡°April, is an open party and you can invite anyone you wish. You need no permission to do that because you¡¯re a staff there. You can clearly tell me that you don¡¯t want me toe, maybe due to some other guy you may be seeing secretly. Go on and have fun¡±N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    My mouth was open, I was not expecting those words from him.


    He said thest part and walked away.


    I wondered what got into him.


    For sometime now, I have been noticing his strange behavior but I never took it serious.


    I followed him inside, trying hard not to get angry because he just used me. And that¡¯s very annoying.


    ¡°What do you mean by all of this attitude you¡¯re pulling, I invited ¡°some other guy¡± and not you. Really?? Can you listen to yourself. You¡¯re not making sense at all Louis. What is the matter with you? If you want toe to the party, fine. Get dressed let¡¯s go¡­¡±


    He turned to me and said.


    ¡°, I¡¯m sorry April. Forget about everything I said. Go on to your party. I¡¯m just pissed over some other thing and unknowingly transfered the anger to you. Please, don¡¯t pay attention to anything I said earlier¡­ go on. I brought home work from the office. I will get busy with that¡­¡±


    I asked him to tell me what exactly pissed him off and he said is the office work that was assigned to him. He said he was supposed to be resting during weekends and not working.


    I also apologize to him before leaving.


    I¡¯m not fully convince because this was not the first time Louis will be working during weekends.


    Sometimes he even go to the office on weekends.


    Is nothing new and that is why I felt there was more to his recent behavior.


    But again, I try not to think much about it.


    I left for the party.


    I¡¯m gradually saving money for my school.


    Louis helped me to open an ount and he gets alert anytime I receive my sry.


    If there is dy in payment he will ask me why haven¡¯t they paid yet because he gets alert on his phone.


    I¡¯m happy that is almost a year that I have been saving now. soon enough I will start my school processing.


    Louis said he will be getting a new car soon enough and I look forward to It.


    I don¡¯t know what is up with Louis but knowing that my savings is rising gives me joy..


    Another thing is this party. I have looked forward to It. This will be my first ¡°freedom¡± party too.


    My boss said she will pay us extra cash at the end.


    That too makes me happy.


    I will use the money and get something nice for Louis, maybe that will cheer him up.

 Episode 8

    By Amah¡¯s Heart


    (Do NOT copy or share)


    I picked few things from the money I was paid, we were also given lots of take home gifts


    I was filled with excitement as I went home that evening.


    We close around 8pm and I got home almost 10pm


    Louise was not happy. I kept apologising and exining to him why we closedte but he didn¡¯t want to hear any of my exnation.


    ¡°What sensible excuse do you haveing back by this time apart from the already known reason¡­?


    Sincerely I didn¡¯t understand the question.


    I thought he meant I have no sense foring homete so I replied ordingly.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re sensible enough why didn¡¯t you bother to call and check up? Telling me that I have no sense is highly unexpected¡­¡±


    He stopped and stare at me like I just fell from hell.


    He gasped out and said


    ¡°You are gradually changing April, you¡¯re metaphorsing into a total stranger. you don¡¯t respect me anymore. You talk back at me. Challenge me and don¡¯t care about my feelings¡­¡±


    ¡°Jez, That¡¯s not true. I respect you greatly and appreciate you everyday Louise. I¡¯m sorry again if you feel otherwise. I brought alot of goodies home. Can I show you¡­¡±


    He quickly replied ¡°No¡±


    I asked him what exactly he wants because he is the one acting strange.


    He told me that I know exactly what he want but I¡¯m pretending not to know.


    I really don¡¯t know what it is except the for the few times he try to talk me into getting intimate but I said No each time he raised the topic.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    He had said that he wish I will give him that chance to have me before I will give it to another guy.


    I told him I¡¯m wasn¡¯t ready and will not give my virginity to anyone yet.


    That was before my birthday


    On my birthday night he asked again. More like pleading, I almost gave in but running away from my family was to prove a solid point to everyone that pretend like I don¡¯t exist.


    I don¡¯t want to return home in a worst situation. All my troubles will all be in vain. No, God forbids it.


    I thought of everything and quickly stopped him.


    He was angry but there was nothing I could do.


    I apologised to him the following day and he said I don¡¯t need to apologise, he understands.


    He raised the topic two to three times after my birthday but I was not going to bend.


    He said he wasn¡¯t going to ask again untill I was ready.


    I believe him and thanked him again for understanding.


    I never thought of it until now. Could it be the reason for all this his strange behavior


    He kept making excuses for his strange attitude towards me and i sometimes make excuses for him too.


    Now is bing more clear.


    ¡°Are we still on the page of getting intimate? I thought you promised not to talk about it or ask until I¡¯m ready?


    He sighed and said while looking away


    ¡°Is taking you forever to make up your mind and to be ready. You are only being selfish April. I have always been there for you, took care of you, amodates you, feed and cloth you. I never asked for anything in return. I even gave up my room so that you will feel secure. All of this I did without asking for anything. The only time I decided to ask.. you turned me down. Each time I raise the topic you you find away to change it. Yet, I remain a gentleman and never burg you. No man will tolerate andy low like I have done, maybe just few men can do that. I¡¯m golden and you probably don¡¯t know what you have until you loose it¡­¡±


    This was not what I was expecting this evening.


    Anytime he starts this particr discussion i feel so down.


    He has a way of guilt trapping me.


    Making me feel guilty all of a sudden.


    ¡°Do you want a payback for everything you did for me? Is that what you are indirectly asking¡­?


    I asked him and he shut me up by interrupting me.


    ¡°What do you take me for? I¡¯m not a bad person April. I¡¯m not asking you to pay me anything. Is not something you can even pay because you can¡¯t. All I wanted was a little something, which as lovers we supposed to be doing normally but I did not want it to seem like I¡¯m taking advantage of you. You¡¯re still a teenager no matter how big you may look. You¡¯re smart and intelligent. And knows exactly what you are doing. Whatever you feel is right then is fine by me. I won¡¯t ask again¡­.¡±


    ¡°You said the same thing thest time Louise. You said you won¡¯t bother me again yet we are having this same conversation again¡­¡± I replied him


    ¡°This time around, I mean it. I won¡¯t ask again. Whatever you think is right then is also fine by me¡­¡±


    He walked away and from then onward his attitude towards me changed drastically.


    I even try to apologise. I don¡¯t know the reason why I was apologising but I kept doing that.


    Yet nothing changed.


    We live like strangers. He hardly talk to me or listen to me talk.


    He appears to be in his own world.


    I hate this sudden change. Louise used to be very lively,  loving and funny too.


    He was a perfect gentleman and that made me love him even more.


    Right now, it seems like I don¡¯t know him again.


    I¡¯m ready to do anything just to bring back the lost vibe we once share


    I¡¯m afraid because the exact thing he may want¡­ I don¡¯t know if I can give.


    But then, I¡¯m still ready to do anything to restore the spark in our rtionship.

 Episode 9

    I didn¡¯t go to work that weekend, Louise was out early morning. Probably to work I don¡¯t know where exactly because he didn¡¯t tell me.


    Our only interaction is mostly greetings. And I sometimes ask him how his day went and to inform him that I made food and if he will like to eat immediately.


    He replies to my greetings very well but hardly eats. His excuse is that he already had something to eat.


    One Friday he returned home veryte with a visitor.


    Ady who¡¯s probably in herte twenties or early thirties.


    She looks good I must say but she appears not to notice my presence.N?velDrama.Org content rights.


    Louise kept ordering me around like a maid.


    He will say ¡°April, quickly fix Miranda¡¯s bath. Prepare a very rich tea with enough milk.. that¡¯s the way Miranda likes her tea. April,e and clear the table and get Miranda chilled water to drink.


    April change the television channel to an interesting foreign romantic movie for Miranda


    April make the room ready because Miranda will be going to bed soon.


    This is what he kept doing and all through he never introduced who Miranda was.


    I did everything he asked of me and slept in the living room.


    I was not happy but what does it matter. As far as Louise was happy and his guest wasfortable I¡¯m good.


    She stayed all through the weekend. I was washing, cleaning and cooking for them.


    Miranda was referring to me as a maid but yet I never mind.


    I will answer and do whatever she asked.


    Louise was happy with the way I went about my duty and that was enough.


    Finally Monday came and they both left early morning.


    I did the cleaning that I can do That morning before leaving for my own work ce.


    I will finish up when I return in the evening.


    I was very angry at work but I try to suck it all in and went about my duty like nothing happens.


    I decided to work extra shift because one of my colleague couldn¡¯t make it to work.


    I was busy and didn¡¯t notice Louise call untill I was done.


    I try calling him back but he wasn¡¯t picking up.


    I changed my working uniform and set off. I stood at the bus stop waiting for bus but the buses I kept seeing were already filled up.


    I need to board a bus that will take me to the nearest bustop to my ce. From there I will take thest one home.


    I was already getting frustrated with how time was flying and yet no bus in view.


    Other people who were there before me are all gone is just me and one elderly man remaining.


    After few more minutes a car drove past then suddenly reversed back and packed in front of me.


    He wound down and asked where I was heading to.


    At first I wasn¡¯t sure if I should reply or not. I¡¯m not the type that jump on a car lift due to the strange stories I have heard in the past.


    But I was in dare need of help to get home.


    Maybe he was an angel sent to rescue me from this lonely night.


    He was young, looks calm and very handsome.


    I told him and he said he wasn¡¯t going to my exact direction but he will drop me close to the nearest bust stop linking to my house.


    I thanked him and hopped into his car. I looked at the elderly man, and wondered how he was going to get home.


    I kindly asked the car man if he can assist the elderly man who was trying to wave down a bus but no one answered him.


    He looked up and said ¡°Sure.


    He asked if I was together with the man. I replied no¡±


    He nodded, moved a little and asked the man toe in so that he can drop him.


    The man hesitated at first before he entered.


    The young man drove off.


    The elderly man probably thoughts we are a couple and began to thank me and the driver for our kind gesture.


    He mentioned he works as a security guard in one of thepanies and his colleague that was supposed to take over the night shift didn¡¯t show up in time.


    He also mentioned that his boss who was supposed to pay him that day was not at work.


    He had to borrow money from their food seller. He also have to buy somethings for his family and not go home empty like that because they are counting on him.


    He was very grateful for the lift.


    The young man told him that it was fine. He was happy to help.


    He asked the elderly man where he stays and he told him.


    He drove straight to the area and dropped him very close to his street.


    The elderly man was filled with gratitude as he continuesly thanked the man.


    In addition, he brought out bond of cash, counted about thirty pieces of one thousand note and gave it to the man.


    I was surprised, because he was a total stranger. The kindness was overwhelming.


    The elderly man knelt down and began to pray for him.


    The young man said he should use it and take care of himself and family until he gets paid.


    He turned and drove off again. He apologized for the dy but I told him that it was alright.


    He mentioned that his name is Phillip and he works in a very big firm as the managing director.


    I got close to my ce and informed him that I will be alighting.


    Philip said he will rather take me home because iste and he contributed to it by going to drop the elderly man.


    He asked for direction and I showed him.


    He drove straight to my ce.


    I saw Louise standing in a dark corner where he won¡¯t be easily noticed.


    my heart skipped. Philip didn¡¯t see him.


    He parked outside my gate and gave me his business card.


    He asked me to call him whenever I wish to.


    He wanted to give me some money but I quickly turned it down.


    I told him that he had done enough and I¡¯m really grateful.


    I went down, he waved at me and I returned the waving as he speed off.


    Louise entered inside without saying a word to me.


    I don¡¯t know what going to happen tonight but I can sense is not good.


    But I was ready and guilt free. He haven¡¯t said anything about Miranda maybe i should use that to hold him down.


    He can¡¯t throw usations when he is yet to clear the air on Miranda.


    My happiness is that I¡¯m home atst.


    I entered the house to face Louise.

 Episode 10

    Iy on the ground as pain pinch deep at me. I can¡¯t seem to wrap my head around everything that took ce tonight.


    No, he didn¡¯t beat me which would have been more preferable.


    Louise suddenly became a monster that night. I have never seen this particr side of him before.


    He asked who Philip was and I told him that he was the guy who gave me a lift.


    He called me a liar, said all kinds of things plus more name calling.


    When I couldn¡¯t stand the whole thing I asked about thedy he brought home over the weekend.


    He was yet to tell me who Miranda really was.


    Louise said he had already told me that she is Miranda and that is all the exnation he has for me. . he owns me no further thing.


    In return I also told him that I have given him enough exnation on Louise, I don¡¯t own him anything again.


    He got angry and began calling me names but I did not care.


    He asked me how many times I have slept with Louise. I didn¡¯t reply until the third time when he barked at me with the same question.


    I replied that i was only meeting Philip for the first time that night and haven¡¯t slept with him or anyone in question.


    He called me a liar again and alot of other demeaning names.


    He grabbed my handbag, opened it and emptied everything inside it on the ground.


    He saw Louise business card and tore it into tiny pieces.


    He took my phone and began to check when he didn¡¯t see anything he threw it on a chair.


    I was just sitting when all of this was going on.


    I decided to go refresh, check if there¡¯s anything to eat before going to bed.


    Louise kept on calling me a liar, saying I was sleeping with other men but denying him anytime he try to touch me.


    I totally ignored him and was about to leave the sitting room, he pounced on me like a prey.


    Trying to force me to the ground. I fought hard and refused to get down.


    I spat on his face, he cursed and strike me on the shoulder.


    I lost bnce and fell to the ground.


    He pinned me down and try to pull off my clothes.


    Looking into his eyes with shock, I saw a different being. that was when I knew Louise was seriously going to do whatever he wants to do with me.


    I began to plead, he was stronger than I am and there was no way I was going to defeat him and run away.


    He seeded in shredding my top. I try to resist him, I was literally begging Louise not to force himself on me rather he should calm down and give me two to three days and I will fully give him my body.


    By then I will be emotional and mentally ready for it.


    Louise wasn¡¯t listening to anything that I was saying at that moment.


    I stopped fighting or struggling with him. I was exhausted from it all.


    I was in serious pain, I thought I was going to pass out at that moment.


    He was panting so hard like somebody on a marathon race when he stood up from me.


    I couldn¡¯t look at his face, I shut my eyes andy there silently.


    I was no longing screaming in pain, I weep silently wishing for many things.


    Maybe I could have stayed back home and suffer the rejection and ill treatment from my parents and siblings. Maybe I shouldn¡¯t have run away from the house. Right now is obvious I made the wrong choice. Ending up with Louise whom I thought truly care and ready to protect me at all cost,  he has hurt me too deep, beyond repair.


    If my parents were good to me without ying the game of politics at home I would have still be home and probably in University by now.


    If they have loved me even little I wouldn¡¯t have had any reason to leave.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    They cherished and care more for Rachel. I was invisible and treated like a maid in my own home.


    If my parents can treat me like a trash how much more a stranger.


    I only expected better, never thought Louise will stoop so low to do this.


    Maybe my expectations are too high, that¡¯s why I keep getting hurt.


    Why do bad things keep happening to me, is God not watching all of this?


    I sat up, unable to move. The pain was excruciating.


    I suddenly started crying again.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry April¡­¡±


    Wow, that was the first word that came out of Louise stinking mouth


    It was very interesting to hear because sorry was meant to fix everything.


    Sorry was supposed to repair, undo all of this.


    How I wish it works that way. Because saying sorry makes it even worst.


    He continued


    ¡°¡­ April, please¡­ I¡¯m sorry. I thought you were lying? I thought you were seeing another guy and already sleeping with him and you wouldn¡¯t let me touch you¡­¡±


    He try to move closer, I flinch in fear which made him pause.


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m not a bad guy. I love and care about you April. No other woman matters to me like you do. I wanted to keep it that way¡­ never in my entire life did I think I was going to hurt you. It was not intentional April. I¡¯m deeply sorry¡­ please find a ce in your heart to forgive me¡­¡±


    He coughed gently, acting like he was going to cry.


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t know what I will do if you don¡¯t forgive me. I can¡¯t live with myself. I¡¯m so sorry. I truly love you and I promise to do whatever it takes to make it right. Please¡­ forgive me April¡­¡±


    What can he do that will make every wrong thing he did tonight right?


    That was a total nonsense and it would have been far better if he had shut up.


    I ignored as I managed to get up from the ground. I dragged myself to the bathroom, locked myself up and remain there.

 Episode 11

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    This is another day to be happy and pretend nothing ever happened.


    It will soon be my break time which is only thirty minutes.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I¡¯m very hungry today and have been watching the clock tick slowly. It was crawling very slow and I kept wondering why it choose to be so today that hunger was dealing with me.


    I just finished a full chocte bar, two creamy biscuits and yogurt. It felt like nothing. Is as if I haven¡¯t eaten for a very long time.


    I need real food and I will make good use of my thirty minutes break to fill my tummy to the brim.


    ¡°God, I¡¯m so hungry. I can even finish a full cow¡­¡± I eximed loudly.


    E my colleague who was on the same shift with me looked up at me strangely


    ¡°April, are you sure you¡¯re alright? The way you have been eating this days is getting worrisome. I¡¯m happy for you and worried at the same time. Hope you didn¡¯t take any kind of worm medicine that is consuming every food you eat.. or are you a pregnant woman..?


    Thest question startled me but i quickly said. ¡± Hey! God forbids it¡±


    She smiled and said ¡°rx girl, I was only kidding. You told me that you and Louise are not intimately involved so there is no way you will possibly get pregnant¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, that can¡¯t be possible E. This whole pregnancy talk is making me nauseating. I feel like throwing up already. Please talk about something else¡­¡±..


    I looked up at the time and pped my hands excitedly.


    ¡°¡­¡±finally is time, I¡¯m going for my break before I faint here because of hunger¡­¡±


    E wasughing as I rushed out.


    While at lunch I began to think over what E said.


    I was afraid at the thought of it and kept saying ¡°God forbid¡± each time my mind travels towards that.


    God won¡¯t let such happen to me. It will be double burn.


    The whole hunger disappeared after few bites. I lost appetite all of a sudden.


    I couldn¡¯t wait for the work day to be over so that I can go home.


    Is been two weeks already and my monthly cycle is meant to show up by now. It was supposed to start three days ago but nothing yet.


    I did not want to worry about it but E¡¯s word was making me so worried.


    After the close of work I sluggishly get a bus and went home.


    When Louise returned that night from work he asked me if I was alright.


    I don¡¯t think I can ever be alright, ever since that horrible night is been nightmare upon nightmare.


    Louise said I¡¯m thinking too much and I need to clear my mind. He said the reason for the nightmares was because I¡¯m still nursing fear and hate in my heart and if I want the nightmare to stop then I have to let it all go.


    I have tried and still trying to do that although it does note often again but whenever it does it feel so horrifying.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel too good? I¡¯m afraid Louise¡­?


    ¡°Afraid of what? He asked while taking a seat beside me


    ¡°What if I¡¯m pregnant?


    Louise looked at me shocked and didn¡¯t reply


    ¡°¡­ I know you gave me some drugs the following morning, I asked you what is it for and you said is to prevent any sign of pregnancy. But, what if the drugs didn¡¯t work on my body¡­ what if I¡¯m pregnant Louise¡­?


    ¡°You can¡¯t be pregnant April rx. The drugs I gave you took care of everything..,¡±


    He stood, walked to the fridge, picked up a drink but I was not stillfortable because despite how he try to convince me, I can sense uncertainty in his voice.


    Louise wasn¡¯t sure of what he was saying. He was trying to hide his worries which I have dictated from his voice.


    ¡°, Is my life we are talking about here. I have big ns and future for myself. I¡¯m asking you again Louise, What if the drugs didn¡¯t work? I¡¯m already feeling awkward and when I checked pregnancy symptoms on Google, it was all included there. What will happen if¡­¡±


    ¡°, Then you will go and remove it for good¡­¡± He said interrupting me.


    I chuckled, annoyed.¡±, you mean abortion? God forbids you Louise. You raped me and now you want me tomit aborti¡­¡±


    He interrupted again and said with a husky voice ¡°, I didn¡¯t rape you April, if you keep seeing it that way you will continue hurting and for how long will you keep up with such pitiful, pathetic tale. We had intimacy¡­ as boyfriend and girlfriend is a normal thing. We live together, acting like couples¡­ I¡¯m not made of wood, I¡¯m a man. No matter how I try to pretend and act along, a day wille that I can no longer do that. start seeing it differently and in that way you will be alright¡­¡±


    He pause, sighed heavily and came to sat beside me.


    ¡°¡­ you¡¯re 18 years¡­ not 20. April you said it yourself that you have ns for your life and a big future. You won¡¯t allow pregnancy to ruin it all. So you will do whatever it takes to get ride of it. Bing a mother at 18¡­ is that what you want for yourself? You have to get rid of any sign of pregnancy by all means. I¡¯m not ready to father any child neither are you. Make up your mind because dy can be dangerous¡­¡±


    He stood up and started walking out.


    As he was going, I shouted angrily at him


    ¡°you want to ruin my life Louise. Why? Running away from my family was troubling enough, I thought is all over and now I¡¯m begining to regret my actions because of you¡­¡±


    He returned back to where I was and said ¡°I¡¯m sorry if you¡¯re feeling that way but you will be the one ruining your own life if you refuse my advice. I also wanted to ask why your sry isn¡¯t paid yet. Is passed the paying time and I¡¯m yet to get alert¡­¡±


    I was surprised when he changed the sensitive topic so easily.


    How can he be more concerned about my sry than my health.


    I shakes my head sadly and told him that my sry have been paid sincest week. My colleagues have all gotten theirs.


    He picked up his phone and probably checked my ount bnce. I watch him heaped a sigh of relief before turning to me.


    ¡°Is paid, I wonder why I didn¡¯t get an sms alert. Alright April¡­. I understand you are very stubborn but while at it hurry up with your decision. There¡¯s no time to cry over a spilled milk. I have pleaded all I can¡­ gave you a good suggestion which will be of your own good. I really don¡¯t know what you want me to do again¡­¡±


    He walked out.


    I sat there thinking over my life.


    I wasn¡¯t sure yet, before anything I will have to run a pregnancy test to be certain.


    Even though deep within I¡¯m afraid it might be positive but I still have to be sure first.


    I can only pray that God help me out at this junction. I don¡¯t want tomit abortion, neither do I want to be a baby mama at this age.

 Episode 12

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I used the fifth stick and it was the same, no changes.


    ¡°Negative¡­ negative¡­ all negative. I¡¯m not pregnant, thank you Jesus¡­ I¡¯m not pregnant¡­¡±


    I eximed happily. It felt like a miracle. I have already zeroed my mind from fear and ready to face whatever the oue will be.


    It felt so good that I began to jump excitedly.


    I was too happy that immediately Louise returned back I couldn¡¯t keep the news.


    I told him that I wasn¡¯t pregnant.


    ¡°I knew it. you know I told you that you¡¯re not pregnant, but because you don¡¯t trust me enough you kept doubting. Now that you have confirmed your curiosity, I guess is all settled. Anyway, I¡¯m equally happy that it wasn¡¯t pregnancy because you would have still end up removing it¡­¡±


    I don¡¯t know if I should be happy with his remark or angry but none of it matters though. I was too happy to pick offence in his sarcasticment.


    Going forward, I pray such act from Louise never urs again.


    Anything that will scare me and make me worry the way I did  won¡¯t happen again.


    I prayed to God to help and protect me from such hurt.


    After then, Louise went back to his caring and loving self.


    He will even call me at work to know how I¡¯m feeling. If hees back from work before me he will prepare lunch, dish out mine and kept it waiting for me.


    He takes me out during the weekend, our outing is always fun and entertaining.


    Along the line I get carried away a little.


    There are days I will love him and kept smiling and wishing we were already a couple instead of living as lovers.


    But there are other days I couldn¡¯t wave off his stinking personality. All I think of is how much he hurt me.


    Even though he has asked for my forgiveness and I let him know that I have forgiven him.


    Although he tried to make up for those bad days but I can¡¯t help but hate every thought of it. Those days Louise bes a threat and enemy in my head.


    I will begin to think he probably has a negative motive behind his recent nice behavior. He can¡¯t possibly be acting all nice all of a sudden without any bad hidden n.


    Trusting him during such time bes hard. I will hate his person and all there is to him.


    I wish we weren¡¯t living together, how happy and free I will be


    If I had my money with me, I could have either leave the house for sometime, get a small ce for myself or go stay with E who has a very small ce that she shares with her sister.


    Right now, i don¡¯t have ess to my money. Louise is in charge and he also calcte my transportation in a month and give the total monthly transport fare.


    The small tips I sometimes get at work I use it to support, get food whenever I¡¯m hungry at work and buy few things whenever needs arises.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    He will always ask me how much tips I usually get at work and I will tell him.


    He will tell me if the money is big, i should make sure I give it to him so that he can continue saving for me.


    He was saving all my money carefully for my future.


    For my school and other expenses thates with it.


    Louise said that I will squander it, spend it carelessly if the money remains in my custody. Which was why he has taken it upon himself to be in charge of all my financial records.


    At first I loved the idea and really bought into because I trusted him but after thest incident, when he forcefully had me to his satisfaction, bruising me in the process. I sustained not only physical wound but also emotional which I kept battling with. After what he did to me, I no longer trust him or feel safe with him.


    But there are days I just want to be loved and pampered and whenever Louise offers, I ept without much thought to it.


    He will make me rx on his shoulder whenever we¡¯re at home watching movie.


    This was the Louise I wished for, this was exactly what I want in my man. The love and care he was showering looks suspicious but I didn¡¯t care I only wish it continues.


    We shared kisses and few romantic moment but that was all to it because I was still scared of really getting intimate.


    I was scared of his dark side. I wasn¡¯t truly safe but I pretended and I was good in my acting. Making him believe I was reciprocating his affection.


    After few more weeks passed, I wasing back from work one day, while at the bus stop waiting for bus, a car drove and stopped in front of me.


    He called my name, when I looked into the car it was Philip.


    I was very happy to see him, he asked me toe in.


    I hesitated a little before joining him.


    He talked about how he waited for my call, how he never stopped checking the bus station anytime he drives pass.


    He asked me why I didn¡¯t call him, I told him is because I misced his business card.


    I remember how Louise shred the business card into tiny pieces, even if I decided to gather it up and take out the number it will be impossible.


    The lie suit perfectly fine and Philip didn¡¯t appear angry or suspecious.


    He asked me if I live with my parents or maybe a rtive.


    I was stuttering at first because I couldn¡¯te up with a lie.


    I can¡¯t possibly tell that him I live with a supposed boyfriend, who I no longer trust. Philip may never want to talk to me again.


    He will keep a distance and that will be the end.


    ¡°I stay with my uncle¡­¡±


    I finally said to Philip. He smiled and asked if my uncle is too strict because he will like to visit me sometime but that will be if I¡¯m okay with it and if my uncle approves.


    He asked if my uncle is a married man or single.


    I told him that he is married with two kids. ¡°My uncle is difficult to please and does not like me keeping friends, especially opposite sex. So he may not approve of your visitation but I will get back to you, Let me confirm from him first. But as for me, I¡¯m okay with you visiting but it won¡¯t be right away. Let me get to know you better first¡­¡±


    He gave me his number and took mine.


    We were conversing so well like I have known him for years.


    He dropped me close to the house and promise to call.


    I walked to the house and Louise was around.


    He weed me with a kiss that taste so awful.


    I sometimes distaste his show of affection because deep down I know he doesn¡¯t truly care.


    I freshened up and he told me that he prepared dinner.


    As I was heading to the kitchen, my phone began to ring, it was Philip calling.

 Episode 13

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    He asked who was calling and I sounded like is a nobody after letting him know is a colleague.


    Louise didn¡¯t say much about it. He went back to chatting with whoever he was chatting with on the phone.


    I get to see Philip through out that week as he makes sure he picks me up after work and drop me close to the house.


    I asked him not to call me whenever I¡¯m home because of my strict uncle.


    He agreed and said I should always let him know whenever I¡¯m away from home or my uncle isn¡¯t around by either texting or calling.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    We continued that way for two months and I refused to ept any gift from him, even mary type.


    I told him that my uncle won¡¯t like that.


    Philip respected my decision and stopped trying to give me things.


    I try as much as possible to keep everything about Philip away from Louise.


    I felt more happy and safe with Philip and I made sure I don¡¯t jeopardize our rtionship.


    He really wanted to visit me at home just to know where I stay and to make known of his intentions towards me.


    He said his hearts are pure and he loves me dearly and will also like to get a permit from my guardian.


    There was a family dinner date he wanted to take me to but he will need my uncle¡¯s permission.


    He wanted to make himself known to my people, so that whenever I dy a little after work they would know that I was with him.


    He try all he could to convince me but I told him it wasn¡¯t time yet because my uncle is stubborn. He is not very understanding like he presume.


    My uncle will even stop me from seeing him if they find out that I was already keeping a rtionship.


    Philip said he does not like hide and seek kind of rtionship.


    But he was ready to wait until the right time


    He informed me one day that he will be traveling out of the country with his Dad. Is a business trip.


    They will stay months before he returning.


    I almost break down in tears because I was already used to him, he makes me feel cherished and loved.


    And they were real feeling not the type that Louise used to showcase.


    I was really going to miss him and wish he will either stay or take me along.


    He also said he was going to miss me.


    He asked me toe over and work in hispany with good sry  but I told him it was not a good idea.


    As he dropped me off one day, he kissed me so passionately and I didn¡¯t want the moment to stop.


    He reassured me that I will always be in his heart and he will never stop loving me. Just at that moment I saw Louiseing.


    He was staring at the car while working down.


    I almost disappeared but since I don¡¯t have such power I decided to squeeze myself under the car seat.


    Phillip did not understand what exactly was going on.


    ,¡±That guying will tell my uncle that he saw me with a man. Please, don¡¯t let him see me¡­ please or I will be dead¡­¡±


    Philip nodded with confusion written all over him.


    He carried his office back pack and ce close to my seat while I try to hide properly.


    After sometime he told me that the guy has walked pass.


    I asked him to check if he was looking back and he said he wasn¡¯t that I should get up.


    ¡°This is more reason I needt toe and see your uncle so that you can be free, you don¡¯t need to hide from anyone¡­¡±


    I heaved a sigh of relief and told him that he won¡¯t understand.


    Iter got down from the car after making sure that everywhere was cleared of Louise.


    Louise was sitting in the living room when I entered.


    The first thing he said was.


    ¡°April, did you see that blue Benz packed down the street¡­?


    My heart skipped but I try not to show my fear. He was referring to Philip¡¯s car.


    I only nodded and waited for his next question.


    ¡°¡­ that¡¯s the kind of car I have in mind but  not exactly because that one in the street is super expensive. I want another model of it which is equally expensive  but not as the one outside and I¡¯m seriously saving towards that..¡±


    I smiled and with a nod before walking away.


    Suddenly my phone began to ring. It was Philip, he probably wanted to know if I¡¯m okay.


    Louise rushed to where I was.


    ¡°Is my colleagues that¡¯s calling¡­¡± I replied Louise who wanted to know who was calling me and for what exactly.


    ¡°Which of your colleagues¡­ male or female? you did not save the person¡¯s number¡­¡±? He said as he snatched the phone from my hand to check the caller.


    I was very happy that I did not save Philip¡¯s number on my phone and I make sure I delete his call log and messages everyday.


    ¡°Which of my colleagues do you know¡­? I believe the answer is none. Stop being so inquisitive. Trying to know whates and goes in my life¡­ I¡¯m not a child Louise. You¡¯re acting like a control freak. I told you is my colleague wanting to know if I have gotten home due to the cufew at the bus station today. Let me be a little free without you breathing down my neck every time. Is begining to choke¡­ seriously¡­¡±


    He began to smile as he turned properly to face me


    ¡°I bought this phone for you, you are under my roof and also under my care. You¡¯re my girlfriend, I¡¯m the only one you know in this big city. I¡¯m your only family basically. doesn¡¯t any of that make sense to you? I have every right to know everything happening in your life. You don¡¯t know how much I spend in a week just to take care of you and the feeding too. So you really have to get used to me breathing down your neck¡­ that¡¯s if you haven¡¯t done that already¡­¡±


    He walked away and I quickly turned off my phone.


    After bathing and getting ready for the night, I couldn¡¯t wave off what he said.


    ¡°Whenever we have a simple conversation you always make sure to remind me of how you¡¯re taking care of me and all. You make it sound more like I¡¯m a liability. If you feel I¡¯m bing a burden please, let me know or better still since my money is also in your care, feel free to use it. I really don¡¯t want to be a burden to anyone. Quit making it seems like I¡¯m a liability¡­ please¡±


    Louiseugh for so long before saying.


    ¡°What can your little stipend do? You are obviously a novice¡­. yet to understand how this things works. Your money is too smallpared to what I spend weekly. Is just too little April my love. You¡¯re probably thinking you have plenty money in your ount, i hate to break it to you that the money in your ount can¡¯t do anything. You really need to work more hard and ask for another increment. You can even be looking out for another job that pays high¡­¡±


    ¡°My money is not stipend. When I started work my sry was 30k, whichsted for six months before it was increased to 35k which is a normal staff sry. I have worked for twenty one months and all my sry in all of this months have been sent to you Louise plus other allowances that was also sent to my ount. If I calcte it properly I¡¯m sure my money will be more than 900k, if i include the allowances and yearly bonuses, It will be more than a million Naira so you can¡¯t call that a stipend¡­¡±


    He had this puzzled look when he stared at me.


    ¡°You¡¯re bluffing April. Your money is not up-to such amount but I¡¯m not ready for such debate. Also why all this unnecessary calction? Since you know that your money was safe with me what is the need to calcte again¡­ don¡¯t you trust me?


    I told that I do and there was nothing wrong in keeping tap of my money. And it was just a rough calction and not exactly. If he says my money is not up-to a milly then is still ok but at least is more than 700k


    Louise had this angry look on his face, I decided to drop the topic.


    The following day, it was a Saturday. while Louise was in the bathroom getting ready to leave, there was a knock on the door.


    I went to open, I almost fainted when I saw Philip standing by the door.


    ¡°Hi April, I¡¯m here to see your uncle¡­¡± He said to a puzzled me.

 Episode 14

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I dragged him outside the gate as fast as I could, I was holding his hand very tight so that he won¡¯t easily pull it out.


    ¡°Why are you here, do you want to put me in trouble? You could have at least respected my wish and keep your distance¡­ showing up like this means you don¡¯t regard me at all¡­¡± I said to him angrily immediately we were outside¡­¡±


    ¡°What exactly are you afraid of April? I told you that I hate hide and seek rtionship, I want to be transparent and make my intention known to your uncle and the entire house. This has been the way I run my life and I intend to keep it that way. I saw how afraid you were yesterday, hiding in my car because you don¡¯t want to be seen by some guy that happens to know your uncle¡­ you¡¯re afraid he was going to snitch on you. I wasn¡¯t happy sincerely. I came here to end such drama for you¡­ for both of us. I love you April and ready to go the extra mile just for you¡­ but you have to let me do it. You have to let me April¡­¡±


    ¡°Now isn¡¯t the perfect time for such, please Phil¡­ go. I will see you on Monday. Go away from here¡­ don¡¯te back because it won¡¯t be safe for me¡­ I will be in deep trouble if you show up here again unannounced..¡±


    I said and rushed back inside before Louise wille out.


    As I was rushing back to the house I was thinking of the lies to tell Louise if he happens to ask.


    And I was just in time because Louise was justing out of the room and heading towards the door.


    ¡°Where were you? I thought I heard a knock.. who was that? He asked


    ¡°Oh that, It was the sho.. e maker¡­ I actually asked the woman selling down the street to direct anyone she happens to see to the house. One of the shoes I usually wear to work is bad, the leather is pulling out¡­ so I needed to get it fixed. Is the shoe repairer that was knocking, so I went out to see him¡­¡±


    ¡°So has he fixed it? where is the shoe¡­? He asked looking at my empty hands.


    ¡°Yes¡­ the shoe. I¡­ I left it with him. Yes, he took it to his workshop to get it done because is not something that he can easily fix. It was the price that we were negotiating outside that took me so long¡­¡± I stuttered.


    ¡°You have to be careful with those set of people because most of them are thieves. They shouldn¡¯t being to knock on somebody¡¯s door¡­ instead they should have remained outside the gate. Coming directly to the house to knock is suspicious. Beside there¡¯s a cobbler shop down the street. Which you can easily take your footwear to and he can easily fix it¡­ I don¡¯t know why you choose the service of those hawking from street to street. I just hope he won¡¯t disappear with your shoes because is obvious you don¡¯t think before doing things¡­¡±


    I walked pass him and heave a sigh of relief.


    It was Indeed a relief because I was almost caught.


    By Monday, I didn¡¯t see Philip after work and when I try calling him he said he was busy.


    I sent an apology message to apologise for what happened over the weekend.


    I really don¡¯t care who was at fault but I just don¡¯t want him to be angry with me.


    He truly cares about me but he needs to give me time to think of what to do.


    Louise is with my money and I have to make sure i y along in order not to also make him upset.


    So that whenever I want my hard earned money he will give it to me.


    I need to apply wisdom by ying along with Louise and Philip.


    Philip replied that he wasn¡¯t mad at me he was just busy and will get back to me whenever he was free.


    He truly didn¡¯t sound angry rather cold.


    All through that week I didn¡¯t get to see him but we weremunicating fine.


    I make sure I send message every hour, checking up.


    At my work ce, I was among the five workers that won the most hardworking, punctual, customer friendly and neat staff of the year.


    Each of our sry was doubled and I received few other benefits.


    It was a great feeling and a perfect time to start processing my University school form.


    when I got home that day, I asked Louise if he got alert but he denied getting alert.


    I told him that I was among the workers that won the best staff of the year and all our sry were sent to our bank ounts in double which was about 70k.


    He still denied getting  seeing such credit alert.


    I was confused and immediately I got to work the following day, I went to the ount office toin that my own money haven¡¯t been sent to me.


    He said he had sent everybody¡¯s money.


    My colleagues said that they have gotten theirs.


    I asked Louise again that evening but he said nothing was sent.


    I asked him to check the ount if the money was already there and he said there was absolutely nothing.


    He said the money was probably hanging due to service error.


    He said it sometimes happens and is not a new thing.


    He probably thinks I¡¯m a fool or somebody without brain.


    What kind ofme talk is that? money hanging due to service error? That¡¯s really funny.


    By next month I n to start processing my school things and need my money in tact


    I don¡¯t need this story that Louise was forming.


    I decided that I will take excuse at work the following Monday to go and open another ount without Louise knowledge.


    After I open it with my personal information, I will tell Louise to transfer all my money to me.


    I will give my new bank ount details to my office ountant. He will be sending my money there.


    Philip asked me again if I will like toe work in hispany, I told him yes. If I can work for extra two months or three months, I will add up the whole money, it will be huge to run my school expenses.


    Since he had said the sry will be attractive, I can¡¯t afford to miss this opportunity.


    The following week, just like I nned, I opened another ount and gave the details to the ountant.


    I told them that I was changing my sry ount to the present bank details.


    I got home and thought of a way to break it to Louise without upsetting him.


    I told him that I want to open another ount because I want to be getting my own alert. Since I havee of age I don¡¯t see reason again for him to still be in charge of my ount.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    He didn¡¯t know that I have already opened the ount.


    I also told him that secondly, he haven¡¯t received the double sry that was paid to me with the rest of other staff


    I¡¯m the only one that haven¡¯t gotten mine yet.


    ¡°You want to open another bank ount? What happened to the one I¡¯m managing for you? I can see that you are making bad friends¡­ they¡¯re obviously influencing your young mind¡­¡±


    I told him it was solely my decision and that¡¯s what I want because I want to start processing my school..


    Before I could finish talking Louise pped me hard, twice across the face.


    He threatened to do worst to me if I ever try to open another ount.


    If at the end of the month he didn¡¯t get any sry alert as usual he will skin me alive and throw me to the street.


    If I still want to get my money I have to y by his role.


    I have never seen such evil in his eyes and voice. It really scared me to the extent I have to go back to our office ountant and plead with the him not to use the new ount again. I told them the old one is more legit.


    Philip asked me when I will be resuming my new office, I wasn¡¯t sure again after my encounter with Louise


    I asked him to give me more time let me think about it.


    I will have to y along whatever game Louise was ying to be able to recover my money.


    I really don¡¯t know how that will happen but I was ready for anything.


    Philip informed me that he will be traveling urgently and will spend three weeks or even a month.


    He asked me to send my ount details so that he can transfer little token for my upkeep.


    He said I shouldn¡¯t turn his offer down again.


    I wasn¡¯t even thinking of saying no, I was rather grateful and quickly send my new ount details to him.


    In no time I got an alert of 50k


    It was unexpected. The amount was huge for just an upkeep. I thanked and made it well known that I was grateful.


    I don¡¯t intend telling Louise about it, that will be my little secret until I decide what to do next with Louise and all my money with him.

 Episode 15

    Three weeks became four then five and the six week arrived scaring me on each passing day.


    Initially it was flowing we but all changedter.


    We were notmunicating like before, he was cold and hardly pick his call or reply my messages.


    I was truly worried and then scared that something bad had happened to him.


    I was panicking as i couldn¡¯t think straight on exactly what was going on


    What if he was done with me and doesn¡¯t want to have anything to do with me


    He can¡¯t juste into my life and mess it up like this.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.


    Although I had nothing to loose but I had already fallen for him totally.


    Philip is one of a kind and I will be so Damned if I miss such a man.


    Maybe the money he sent was a goodbye gift. I never even thought of that until now.


    Did I offend him without knowing or was it because I refused to allow him toe and see my so-called uncle that doesn¡¯t even exist.


    Or did he happens to know about Louise?


    He probably did his findings and found out that I was living with a man who happens to be my boyfriend.


    ¡°No¡­ no, he can¡¯t possibly know that¡­¡±


    My guilt will torment my conscience day by day. Although I still feel tortured but I can cope knowing well that Philip knows absolutely nothing about me.


    I was almost loosing my mind thinking about Philip.


    I became moody and lost appetite.


    Nothing interest me at all. I try to forge ahead and not let anything about Philip pull me down emotionally but nothing was really helping.


    ¡°What is wrong with you¡­¡± Louise asked one day


    ¡°Nothing, I¡¯m fine..¡± I replied


    No, you¡¯re not  fine. I noticed you are just mopping around like a shadow. Something is definitely eating at you¡­ and you know you can tell me anything right¡­¡±


    I looked up at him, expressionless and angry that he wouldn¡¯t drop the topic


    ¡°¡­ you can tell me anything April because I care¡­.¡±


    That was an actual lie, Louise doesn¡¯t care one bit he was only being inquisitive, he really wanted to know what was happening in my life and I¡¯m not ready to spill a thing.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine Louise, please just leave me alone. Thanks for caring¡­¡±


    I walked into the room to try Philip¡¯s number hoping he will pick but as usual it was not going through


    I decided to send a message, after sending the first one, I sent another and waited but no reply came.


    This was it for me. I will delete his number and everything about him.


    I will try to forget about him so that I can move forward because thinking about him, calling and texting him without getting a reply makes me want to cry.


    Maybe, I will give it few more days and I will never call him again


    He can¡¯t be toiling with my emotions.


    That following morning, while I was in the bathroom getting ready for work i began to wish I know his office or where he lives.


    If I do I could have visited, paying him an unexpected visit may not sit well with him but he left me with no choice.


    I finished from the bathroom, stepped into the room and there Louise was seated on the bed checking my phone.


    I rushed to drag my phone from him but he pushed me away, I lost my bnce and fell down.


    He didn¡¯t say a word as he continued checking.


    I stood up to face him.


    ¡°Who¡¯s Phill?


    I didn¡¯t say anything, he approached me and repeated the question


    ¡°Is a nobody..¡±I replied still standing.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like a nobody to me, you have beenmunicating with him for sometimes now and I know you must have deleted some old messages too. But thisst one you sent you were begging him to pick your call. Let me read out some of it ¡°tell me what I have done wrong Phil, please reply or pick my call because I¡¯m going crazy thinking of you¡­¡±


    Louise read it out from the phone to me and I was quiet without trying to defend myself.


    ¡°¡­.. so who¡¯s is Phil I ask you again?


    ¡°Is a nobody. I replied again


    ¡°He angrily smashed my phone on the walls and said ¡°stop toiling with me April, for thest time who this Phil, you call and text him and begging him to reply you because you¡¯re going crazy..? So he¡¯s been the reason for your recent bad mood. You¡¯re cheating on me? Are you seeing another man? You¡¯re seeing another man under my nose¡­? April, answer me because if you don¡¯t your head will be the next thing I will smash¡­¡±


    I was afraid but I try not to show it. I wanted this moment to pass because I was scared of what Louise will do next.


    ¡°I¡¯m not seeing another man Louise. You¡¯re my only man and Phill means nothing to me. Please, I don¡¯t want any trouble this morning. Is just one of those moments at work, I happen to meet a customer who probably charmed me because the guy is not caring, not fine, not romantic and doesn¡¯t love me yet I can¡¯t seem to get him out of my head. I¡¯m begining to think he did something to me, maybe he charmed me. Even has a wife and kids¡­ that¡¯s how crazy it is Louise. I need prayer because this is not ordinary. Maybe is from the ice cream he brought for me and I innocently ate it. Talking about it now I feel a little free. That¡¯s the truth¡­¡±


    He looked at me for few minutes and said


    ¡°Indeed, you¡¯re charmed if that¡¯s the case. I don¡¯t want this madness to repeat itself again so try to uncharm yourself before something worse happen. Hav he taken you out before¡­ have you slept with him¡­¡±


    I told him that none of that happenend


    ¡°I believe you but prove it,


    ¡°How¡­?  I replied uncertain of what exactly he meant.


    He said he will show me how.


    Louise pulled off the towel tied around my chest and pushed me to the bed.


    Fifteen minutester he was done, satisfied and stood to dress.


    I endured, didn¡¯t make a sound and neither did I resist.


    I felt more hatred and disgusted for him but I didn¡¯t say a word.


    ¡°, Before getting to work make sure you stop at a pharmacy and get some meds for yourself. I know you¡¯re naive and stupid, you must be told what to do Everytime yet you act like you¡¯re smart, but in the actual sense you are dumb¡­.¡±


    I quietly entered the bathroom and washed off, when I came out he was still there.


    I immediately started dressing hurriedly.


    ¡°¡­ another thing is that no matter who the man is or whatever excuses you probably got for him please don¡¯t let this happen again. You¡¯re not permitted to move or rte with any other man romantically. Except if you are foolish and wants to see the other side of me. I¡¯m very nice April but I hate to be toiled with. Respect both my presence and absence please, mingling with any man on whatever ground you may ce it is cheating and disrespect and I won¡¯t tolerate such from you¡­¡±


    He was still talking when I got dressed and was about leaving when he asked.


    ¡°Hope you heard everything I said¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, I heard you¡­¡±


    ¡°Good. Don¡¯t forget to get the drugs at the pharmacy. I don¡¯t want to hear any pathetic story of how you went throwing up or having cramps because you suspects pregnancy. You¡¯re big enough to take care of yourself in that regards. So please, do the needful¡­ hope you understand?


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯m clear on that¡­¡±


    I looked over at where my broken phoney in pieces on the ground. I made attempt to go retrieve.


    ¡°Hey¡­ what are you doing, where do you think you¡¯re going?


    ¡°I want to pick my phone¡­¡± I replied pausing close to where the phone is.


    ¡°What for, so that you will find another means and continuemunicating with your Phil?


    ¡°Is a broken phone Louise, I want to see if it can still work. How are we going tomunicate without a phone. You won¡¯t be able to reach me and I won¡¯t be able to reach. I will probably take it to a repairer to fix


    ¡°Fine, go ahead and take it¡­¡± He finally said.


    I put the phone in my bag and left.


    I stopped by at a pharmacy and get some drugs.


    I was veryte to work that day, I gave excuses foringte to work and my boss happen to be around.


    ¡°April, you know already that you¡¯re among the staff here that I admire. Always punctual, neat and very customer friendly. You are among the workers that won the best staff of the year. Many staff here looks up to you, they want to follow in your footsteps. Coming veryte to work without a call and your line wasn¡¯t going through is not a thing. You¡¯re the image of thepany and need to be at your best at all time. If there is any reason that you had toe inte please try to put a call across. I will excuse today¡¯s behavior but please let it not happen again¡­¡±


    I was trying very hard to fight my emotions and hold back myself from crying.


    I managed to thank her before going into the changing room to change into my working uniform and that was where I broke down and started crying


    I released all the emotions that I have been holding in and allowed the tears to flow.


    When I felt a little free I wiped off my face, got ready to face the day.


    Within that day I try to turn on my phone but it wasn¡¯ting on again.


    I borrowed my colleagues phone to make a call.


    I try calling Phil because I had his number in my head but his number still wasn¡¯t going through.


    I finally made up my mind that Philip was a history and is time to face reality and move on.


    Being strong and fighting whatever battle that I will have to face from now onwards alone and Louise is one hell of a battle I will have to fight with everything I got until he is defeated.

 Episode 16

    I made up my mind that I will find a way to get my money from Louise then get a ce of my own and move out to an unknown ce where Louise will never find me.


    From there I will start my life again, start processing my admission and get into school.


    Any money, either a tip from a customer or any mary gift I happen to get from now onwards goes to my new ount.


    After another week pass, my colleague whom I used her phone the previous week to call Phil told me that she mistakenly sent the already dialed number belonging to Phil and the he picked she quickly ended the call.


    He called back asking who she was, and she ended the call again and decided toe and inform me first.


    I told her he wasn¡¯t important anymore. She should try and dismiss him anytime he calls.


    That same week, I summon courage to go to Louise demanding for my money on the ground that I want to start school.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I told him that the school form was out so I need to get mine right away before it runs out.


    He told me that I needed to work few more months so that the money will be enough for my school runs.


    He said my money in his ount was not enough for all the the things I mentioned and is not like he does not want to give them all to me but I will squander it he release it and it happens to be under my care.


    He asked me to work more hard so that I can save more money for my school.


    I almost threw spit on his face for saying those things but I held back myself.


    I told him that I will like to get a new phone because the old one he smashed is totally damaged and can¡¯t be fixed.


    Louise bluntly refused. He said I should find another means and get a small phone because a single dime won¡¯t leave my bank ount.


    He said there is a n for it and taking anything out will affect the n.


    I silently wondered if he was making ns for himself with my hard earned money or was he making ns for me concerning my school.


    I don¡¯t want to focus my mind on the negativity of this whole thing, I want to hold on to some ray hope of getting my money.


    Why won¡¯t he give me just little to get a phone, after all he was the same person that smashed it until it¡¯s screen ss was littered everywhere.


    I have removed my sim card and trash the phone, all I need is little out of my money to get another phone.


    He can also do the buying himself, all I¡¯m concerned about is to get a phone. but Louise bluntly refused.


    He was obviously making ns with my money, I kept wishing is not true because my almost two years of hard work and sweat can¡¯t go in vain.


    Louise even asked if I¡¯m looking out for a better ce with a fat sry and I said yes.


    I wanted to p him very hard for everything he is putting me through emotionally and physically also for not wanting to give me my money but pretending like he want to.


    If I ever had one chance to do that, I will make a very good use of it and I will make sure that Louise feel the pain even to his bone marrow.


    I will not let him take my money. I will fight it even if is thest thing I do.


    After another week went by, that Saturday I was out to the market to buy things for the house as Louise wasn¡¯t doing that anymore and weekend is my only free time to shop for grocery with the money Louise drops.


    After buying the things, my next n was to go home and cook


    Returning from the market, getting to the gate I saw a car parked close to our house, it looks so much like Phillip¡¯s car.


    I stopped to examine the car properly.


    Is not possible, it can¡¯t be Philip.


    I refused to believe it.


    I wanted to turn and go and hide somewhere but since I wasn¡¯t very sure and the car can belong to anybody and mustn¡¯t be Philip I decided to proceed.


    I decided to go in, I tip toed to the house.


    I put my ears to the door and felt sudden fear grabbing me.


    I can hear noise andughter.


    I quietly opened the door and went inside.


    There he was seated with Louise, drink in hand as they talk andugh like pals.


    Philip eyes lit up the moment I came in.


    ¡°Hey April, oh my God¡­ is so good to see you again¡±. Philip said excitedly.


    I stood there staring and trying to understand what was going on.


    ¡°¡­ you are staring at me like you have seen a ghost. Well, I¡¯m really sorry. I lost my phone on the second week of my journey. I managed to retrieve my sim cardter. I was really worried that I couldn¡¯t call you, the mistake I made was that I didn¡¯t save your number in my head, i regretted that. There was much to do and needed to stay back to finish up before returning. I have try to see you since I returned but couldn¡¯t, I had no choice than toe down here. I met your cousin brother Louise, he is simple and nice and I wondered why you were so scared of inviting me down. I and Louise had been catching up and I¡¯m so happy and free too April. Truly¡­ I have really miss you and got lots of things for you¡­ they¡¯re in the car¡­¡±


    I looked over at Louise, he was sitting with his drink in hand, leg crossed and wearing a mischievous smile.


    Philip continued


    ¡°¡­ unfortunately, I  couldn¡¯t get anything for Louise because I¡¯m just meeting and knowing him for the very first time but hope he wouldn¡¯t mind a cash gift¡­¡±


    Before Philip willplete his sentence Louise replied


    ¡°cash gift? you don¡¯t need to Phil but if you insist I will have to ept. You¡¯re like a family friend already¡­¡±


    This is not good at all. I need to do something but the point is what exactly am I supposed to do now.

 Episode 17

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I sluggishly followed him outside and all of what he was saying during the time that we are outside wasn¡¯t reaching my ears.


    My mind was very far and so was my thoughts.


    Philiping to my house was a bad idea, so bad.


    Why didn¡¯t he try and find means to reach me first?


    He knows the exact bustop I normally wait for bus to take me home every evening after work.


    I have told him where I work and he can aswelle and look for me there


    There are many options apart from my house that he can still see me but instead he choose the worst ce and now I¡¯m left with no idea or option on how to face Louise.


    ¡°Are you alright, you¡¯re not happy to see me or what? Philip asked after handling me a fancy bag filled with things.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m happy that you¡¯re finally back. You almost gave me a heart. I¡¯m only a bit surprised that you choose toe down to my house of all ces¡­¡±


    He smiled and touched me gently on the cheek


    ¡°I did not see another better option. I was worried sick about you. I¡¯m sorry for showing up the way I did, I was just so eager to see you my love. Beside, your cousin is not that bad. He¡¯s nice, amodating and entertaining. I don¡¯t know why you haven¡¯t introduce me all this while. What were you afraid off?


    ¡°Nothing, but I¡¯m not justfortable with youing to my house. Louise maybe nice but he can be troublesome sometimes and I don¡¯t want trouble at all. You may not understand Phil but it will be better if we can keep our rtionship far from my house. I won¡¯t befortable if you start visiting me here..¡± I said to him without mincing words.


    ¡°April, but there¡¯s obviously nothing to be afraid off, I told you that I don¡¯t like hide and seek love¡­ and getting to know one of your family member that you¡¯re staying with in this big city is one of my wishese true. Louise made it known that I¡¯m wee anytime. I don¡¯t see reason why you should be up-tight because of that. Is all good April and I¡¯m happy and feel free, I can visit you anytime and spend time with your family¡­ Louise is your only family that I have met so far and he has already epted me without troubles so you shouldn¡¯t be worried because everything is settled and you won¡¯t be hiding from anyone again¡­¡±


    I saw that convincing him to stoping to the house or seeing Louise may raise a suspecious dust, I decided to drop off the topic.


    I will sit and n for another way out of thister.


    He kissed me good bye and drove off.


    I returned back inside to face Louise


    Immediately I entered the sitting room he began to p,ughing hriously


    He pause from pping andughing then said to me.


    ¡°So that¡¯s your secret lover? Unfortunately for you is not a secret anymore. He was the reason for those your Sicky behavior and you kept lying and fabricating different things just to cover up but look at how you were exposed? You didn¡¯t even expected it to happen this way right? nothing is hidden under the sun my dear April. I have been sharing you all this while with Philip and didn¡¯t even know it. I guess you¡¯re giving him the lion share of your body freely and I have to take mine by force from you. See how you¡¯ve been exposed and the funniest part of this whole thing is that I¡¯m not even angry rather I¡¯m very happy because I have seen avenue to be one of the biggest boys in town¡­. hahaha¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m begging you Louise, please leave Phil alone. Do with me as you please but leave Phil out of your troubles. I will do whatever you say or ask of me¡­ I¡¯m pleading¡±


    He began tough hysterically again


    ¡°So you mean that you can actually plead like this because of a man? Look at the way you¡¯re holding your hands together and begging me to leave your secret lover alone¡­ hahahaha! I have not even started and you¡¯re already pleading. Anyway, because of the true love I have for you, I will do as you say but on one condition¡­¡±


    I was very eager to hear whatever condition it was.


    Maybe he will ask me to sleep with him and that is no longer anything to me.


    He can have me as he please but he should leave Phil alone.


    I was waiting for him to tell me the condition but he sat down and pick up the television remote control.


    ¡°Louise, what do you want? I¡¯m ready to ept anything just for you to let Philip be. I will do anything you say or want please¡­¡±


    ¡°I know you will April because you don¡¯t really have a choice. You will do anything either good or bad in this case¡­ you will do anything to cover up your tract. Your Phil thinks we¡¯re rted, your Phil thinks you¡¯re a good girl but you¡¯re not. Your Phil does not know you ran away from your parents¡­ or does he? He doesn¡¯t know you eloped with your lover, which happens to be me and we have been living together for years now or am I wrong? And the reason you refused himing to the house is because you lied that you were living with your uncle¡­ your rtive but in truth you got no rtive here. You¡¯re just a naive teenager who ran away from home with her lover and has been living together with him as a couple. You wanted to prove a point to your family and make them understand that no one orders you around, you will do anything for your freedom and damn all consequences. You don¡¯t care about their feelings or what your eloping may cause them. You¡¯re self centered, spoilt brat that thinks of no one else but yourself. So yes, you will definitely do anything I say because you don¡¯t have a choice¡­¡±


    I was moved to tears but I refused showing weakness in front of Louise.


    ¡°None of what you said about me is totally true. Louise you of all people knows the truth but since you decided to tell your own fabricated version no problem, I¡¯m not even surprised. You don¡¯t know anything about me or my pain but none of that matters because even if you know you will still choose to say whatever you want to say¡­¡±


    ¡°Watch your mouth April, I have the keys to your doom in my custody. I also have the keys to your happiness so you better watch what you say or do to avoid more regrets. Whatever you do onward should be centered on pleasing me¡­ maybe for the rest of your life because I got the power to make or destroy you. Go and make food, I¡¯m hungry¡­ I will tell you tomorrow the conditions that you have to meet if you really want me to leave your Phil alone¡­¡±


    I started leaving and he called me back and asked me to open the fancy bags filled with things that Philip got for me.


    I emptied it on the chair for him. Philip really got me nice stuffs, fine foot wears, nice body fit, colognes, beautiful portable hand bag, two fine tops and few other things.


    ¡°¡­ This your Phil is truly a lover boy. Hahahaha, lover girl deceiving lover boy. Anyway, he gave me unexpected big amount of money¡­ which means that he is wealthy or he got a rich Dad or Mum. I don¡¯t really care how rich he maybe I¡¯m just happy that the wind blew him to my end and we finally met¡­¡±


    I began packing my gifts back into the bag. I suddenly pause and asked him


    ¡°You want to sleep with me? If that¡¯s what your condition is then get on with it. I¡¯m giving you right to my body but please leave Phil alone. You will have to promise me and keep your words Louise¡±


    He startedughing again


    ¡°April just shut up please. I don¡¯t need any right from you or anyone to sleep with you when I want. I have every right to it and whenever I want¡­ I take it. You¡¯re even very boring in bed. You willy there like a log until I¡¯m done, nothing about you is interesting¡­ you¡¯re so boring. Don¡¯t be faster than your shadow and start running your mouth, I said I will tell you my conditions tomorrow. You better quit thinking that sleeping with you will be the condition. That¡¯s the must craziest stupid idea buting from you I¡¯m not shocked¡­ you¡¯re very naive and your thinking isme. Please take what your lover got for you out of here and go and make food for me to eat. By tomorrow I will tell you whatever my conditions are¡­¡±


    I heaped a sigh before walking away.


    I really don¡¯t know what Louise is up-to, I don¡¯t have a clue of the conditions he probably wants to give me but I¡¯m so much eager to know.


    If he¡¯s not interested in having my body then I really don¡¯t know what he wants but I hope is something I can do because I will do anything to protect Philip from Louise.Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org.

 Episode 18

    The following day before I left for work I asked him kindly if he will tell me of his condition but he got angry.


    ¡°You¡¯re begining to piss me off April, with the way you are eager to know of my conditions and how you¡¯re going about it I may end up extending it more than the intended time just to keep you in suspense since you don¡¯t want me to breath in peace in my house¡­¡±


    I decided not to say anything again in order not to escte the whole issue.


    I apologise just to calm him down and left for work.


    I spoke with Philip almost all day as he calls in time to time to check up and know if I need anything.


    I was not very bright, Louise was getting me all worked up and I was worried with all the suspense.


    I can no longer keep calm but I try not to show it in my voice while talking with Philip.


    I acted like I was really alright but deep down I was dying.


    After work I quickly went home and waited for Louise toe back, but he wasn¡¯t alone when he finally returned which was veryte in the night, I was already sleeping.


    Maybe because he was with a visitor he didn¡¯t say anything concerning the matter on ground.


    It was really getting me worked up and I decided not to ask because he may start getting angry again and may even decide to worsen the condition.


    I served him dinner and also thedy he came with and waited for them to be done before clearing the table like a good girl.


    Without being told I quickly set bath for thedy and dropped a clean towel and one of my clean new night wears, just in case she wanted something to wear because I didn¡¯t see here in with any clothes aside her handbag.


    I was really behaving like the good old maid and I didn¡¯t care.


    Maybe that will make Louise to think twice before giving me any condition.


    I kept hoping he will somehow tell me that night while thedy was bathing.


    Every little opportunity I got I used it to cross my fingers and hope.


    I evacuated the room right away without being asked andy my sleeping things in the sitting room.


    I also removed my the things I¡¯m going to use the previous day.


    Louise suddenly began tough as he was heading to the room.


    ¡°April, all this your show off is funny and suspecious, what¡¯s the catch?


    I looked at him and then looked away. I didn¡¯t reply.


    Thedy with him who i don¡¯t even know her name because Louise refers to her as ¡°babe¡± only


    She looked at me pitiful while wearing one of my night wears that I dropped for her.


    She probably felt the fine nighty is from Louise her one night lover.


    She maybe thinking that she is very special to him, unknown to her that Louise changes women anytime he feels like.


    There used to be a time I was also special to him, oh well I felt I was until he started showing me his other side that I never knew existed.


    Thedy looked at me and said


    ¡°I thought she¡¯s your maid, is there supposed to be a catch when she¡¯s only doing her job?


    I looked at her long mouth like that of a pigeon.


    Louise turned to her and said


    ¡°Maid? No¡­ April is my cousin. The cloth you¡¯re putting on is from her, her way of saying she likes you¡­¡±


    I was quiet shocked because Louise usually tell his other girlfriends that he usually brings to the house that I¡¯m a maid


    But referring to me as his cousin, I really don¡¯t know what to make out of that.


    Maybe admitting that I¡¯m a maid would have been more preferable to me.


    ¡°Oh mine, she¡¯s your cousin? With the way she was trying to please me by all means I thought differently. Is only maids that goes the extra mile to make their bosses girlfriend feel weed. You mentioned her name¡­ April? What a name¡­ why not June or July? Hahahaha. Forgive my manners April, you¡¯re a pretty girl. I said it within me when I saw you that this beautiful maid living with my fine Bobo, hope there¡¯s ¡°no body touching¡± privately because I know my man likes fine girls. hahaha!  sorry for referring to you as a maid. Is obvious you like me and I love your cousin brother too and he¡¯s my baby boo. Thanks for this nice, cuddly wear¡­ I love it.


    I only told her that she was weed before leaving them to the kitchen.


    I don¡¯t have any business again in the kitchen that night but I wanted them to leave me alone and it worked.


    By the time I came back they were already whispering and moaning in the room.


    After sometime I slept off but was awaken by a very loudughter which was obviously from Louise and thedy.


    I managed to sleep off again until the following morning.


    I woke up early and began to prepare for work after I might have tidied up the house and set breakfast of tea and bread with tomato egg sauce on the table.


    I ate little from the breakfast before getting ready for work.


    Already, I brought out my work clothes and everything that I will need to get ready in order not to disturb Louise and his guest.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    I was almost done when they finally came out.


    I greeted them and informed them that I have set out breakfast for them.


    I saw the satisfactory smile on thedy¡¯s face.


    ¡°This your cousin is super nice, I don¡¯t have any little money on me I could have find something for her as a token of my appreciation¡±  she said while hanging her hand on Louise shoulder.


    Louise gave that mischievousughter again before saying ¡°you will be surprised that this fine cousin of mine is far richer than you. And her boyfriend is super rich too. So she does not need your little pocket change, April will feed you for months or even a year without troubles¡­ she¡¯s a big girl¡±


    He winked at me and I went back arranging my things so that I can leave the two crazy people staring at me.


    The Lady looked at me jealously before turning to Louise.


    ¡°You belittle me when you say things like this in front of her. I feel insulted already but I will let it slide because of the love we both have for each other. I saw handbags in the bedroom, I know is for your cousin but there¡¯s this particr handbag, is actually very expensive in the market, I was wondering how your cousin managed to afford it but I can totally understand from what you just said. Now, the issue is that I love that handbag, two in particr is outstanding because they¡¯re designers, very expensive and I want them, Hope your cousin wouldn¡¯t mind¡­¡±


    I was about to caution her not to touch any of my things because I know is the two new handbags that¡¯s Philip recently got for me that she wanted but Louise interrupted and said.


    ¡°You can have anything you want babe, I told you that April got a wealthy boyfriend and she can afford whatever she wants, two designers handbags is really nothing to her. I bet you before next week she will rece them¡­¡±


    He turned to me and said ¡°¡­ April, everything i said is true right?


    I ignored him.


    Thedy having gotten permission from Louise, retuned to the bedroom probably to finally take the handbags.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have any right to ask her to go take whatever she wants. My stuffs is mine and not up for negotiation and yours is yours and you shouldn¡¯t use what is mine to y a love card with your girlfriends. If they admire something then you should get it for them, not doing giveaway with mine. I have been nice to you and your guest but I guess I over did it because now her covetousness has taken all theover her. Please, keep them away from my stuffs. I respect yours, please respect mine¡­ I¡¯m begging you and I¡¯m asking kindly¡­¡±


    I said angrily to Louise and I try not to be loud so that his guest won¡¯t hear me.


    But along the line I loosed it all, I was really boiling angrily because I can no longer hold it all in.


    ¡°Are you sure you know or understand who you¡¯re talking to? I¡¯m holding everything about you in my palm April and can expose you to the sun and that will be your end yet you challenge me without fear, you disrespect me while my girl is still around, hmmm! You¡¯re going to pay for every words you spoke..¡±


    I ignored him as I pick up my bag and started leaving.


    He called me back and said


    ¡°¡­. you were so eager to know what your condition will be, one of them is¡­ I want that type of Philip¡¯s car with a million naira to any it as fuel and maintenance money. The same type, it can be different color I don¡¯t really care.   I¡¯m giving only two months¡­ that¡¯s enough time to get it done. I will tell you the second condition another day, let¡¯s focus on this major one and get it done first..¡±


    ¡°This is a pure ckmailing Louise? How can you want something that¡¯s impossible¡­ how do you want me to get that. Philip can¡¯t even afford half of what you¡¯re asking for. You¡¯re being greedy and impossible¡­!


    He began tough andter said.


    ¡°Remember you have just two months. That¡¯s my condition so I don¡¯t care how you and your Phil will make it happen but that is exactly what I want and nothing will change it. The ball is in your court¡­. remember this is just one of my conditions, you¡¯re yet to know the second one. Make sure you make it happen otherwise Phil will know all about you and I guess you wouldn¡¯t want that, you will do anything to protect your identity. Is up-to you now April¡­¡±


    I ran out as quick as possible because if I stay any longer I may stone him with whatever Iy my hands on.

 Episode 19

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    For days I try to avoid Louise, I didn¡¯t want to get in his way and did not want to have any reason he will talk to me in manner that we warrant me talking back at him.


    I still saw Phil and he sometimes brings me home after work.


    Since Louise is already aware of our rtionship there was nothing to hide again or be afraid off in Phil bringing me home.


    It was before I used to be afraid whenever he decided to drop me off at home after work and I was afraid of Louise seeing us because he may want to strangle me if he dares find out but not again because now that he knows Phil I felt a little bit relieved.


    I did not forget about Louise condition or how he threatened to expose me if his wishes are not met in two months.


    Is been about three weeks and within this time, Louise had asked me more than ten times if I have informed Phil and how much is Phil preparing in getting him his dream car.


    He asked me that hope I made it sound very serious so that Phil can hasten up in doing so.


    I lied each time that the questiones up.


    I don¡¯t need to say much I just told him ¡°yes, Phil is working on it¡±.


    Louise will smile and I can see that he was already dreaming of his soon to be new ride.


    I did not tell Phill anything, I dare not even try such.


    I was only strategizing a means, thinking of my next move with Louise.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    After another week passed by, he asked me to invite Phil over, he wanted to host him and to also ask him about the car and the color he was nning in getting for him.


    I lied that Phil traveled and whenever he returns I will inform him.


    Few dayster he asked me why he haven¡¯t heard from Phil, a month has gone by and there¡¯s no news about his car.


    That was when I told him is because business was not moving well for Phil, he asked for more time to get back on his feet.


    Louise became very angry, he said it was a lie and he does not care if his business wasn¡¯t moving well, all he was after is that he needs his new car and after the time he gave passed by he will do exactly what he intend to do.


    He said Phil is rich and his parents got money too so if his business was not going fine he should collect money from his parents and get him the car.


    And if the car will dy he should send in the one million naira expenses that he attached to the car first so that he can use it aspensation pending the time the car will be ready.


    I decided to tell him what I have been nning. deep down I knew he will love the idea and may decide not to disturb Phil ever again.


    ¡°Louise, my money is with you and is more than a million, I¡¯m ready to give you all of it but on the condition that you let Phil be. You can use the money and get a car or whatever you want but you will have to promise me that you will stop disturbing Phil and i.  you will have to keep whatever you have to say to yourself because I¡¯m literally paying you off. Is my hard earned money Louise and and doing this was a very hard decision for me because I have n for that money which is to train myself in school with it and you know how much hard I have worked just to have savings and now I have to give it all away for the sake of my peace of mind¡­¡±


    Louise interrupted me while i was still talking.


    ¡°You are talking nonsense April, please shut up your mouth. You don¡¯t pay for amodation or feeding in this house, even toiletries, I make sure is avable. I practically do everything myself and you hardly contribute nothing. How do you think I run this house and it¡¯s upkeeps? You think is with my money alone? All the bills are paid by me which includes the rent and light bills. So, you selfishly think that my own money is meant for expenses while yours is meant for savings? You will be enjoying and feeling entitled with your money in my hand and thinking that you¡¯re wise. My dear I don¡¯t owe you shishi, i owe you nothing and wasn¡¯t saving anything for you. For your information you don¡¯t have any money with me, I was only trying to y with your stupidity all this while and making you believe I was actually saving your sry for you so that you can use it for your school, well in case you don¡¯t know, now you know and please don¡¯t ask me of any money again¡­.¡±


    I was shocked, I opened my mouth to say something but no words came out.


    ¡°¡­ oh you¡¯re surprised? Don¡¯t be baby, that¡¯s the way life works in case you have forgotten. If life was fair you won¡¯t run away from your house. Back to the main topic, you have just a month to make your lover boy buy me that car plus my one million naira for expenses. Also inform your boss at work that is time for increment. They should increase your sry. Things are very expensive now and your sry is no longer enough for a week expenses¡­¡±


    I was frozen at the spot as Louise stood and walked away.


    After then I knew I have been very foolish to have entrusted my Life savings into Louise care.


    I trusted him and thought my money was safe, if I decide to start my school processing i can ask for it and get it, so I thought.


    Now, I understand the reason he kept trying to talk me off the actual amount anytime I raise the topic.


    I was done being foolish, is time to actually show Louise that I¡¯m not the naive, stupid girl he thinks of me.


    I was boiling angrily as I stepped out of the house

 Episode 20

    Ordinarily, i wouldn¡¯t have reacted if he epted my offer, I will still be caged under his webs and continue doing his biddings.


    Yes, even after he might have taken the whole money, my sry will continuesly be sent to this so called bank ount he opened and managed for me which I have no control over.


    With no doubt I will live my life trying to please Louise and may even get molested and insulted nonstop, it won¡¯t stop him from disrespecting me but offcourse I will never mind whatever he throws at me because him epting my offer and trying to keep my real identity hidden from Phil was a huge favor.


    Not telling Phil anything will be a favor and my over millions of naira that I have saved up for school and hoping to finally start soon, handing him this whole life savings aspensation will definitely hunt me for a long time. I will feel broken that all I have worked all this years is gone.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    My hard earned money, my sweat, my only hope of finally bing somebody important and bing a better version of myself is gone.


    Just gone without any gratitude, it was more like an arm robber breaking into the house to steal your life savings and takes it without trace.


    Yes, that was how Louise stole all my money, his weapon was not gun or matchet, is not even a heavy stick but only his tricky big mouth.


    He sweet talked me into helping me to save money for my future and telling me how I might start spending the money that was supposed to be for my school. He said he was only trying to help me and him saving the money for me will help me to be disciplined and focus.


    He will be in charge but the ount details are all mine information, like the name and age.


    His email and phone number will be used for this my bank ount so that he can monitor it properly.


    When the moneyes up and i want to use it for the admission or anything else he will dly hand it all to me.


    Nothing will happen to it, is under his watch and he will manage it well for me and I shouldn¡¯t have any reason to fear or worry.


    I trusted him so much, Louise was supposed to be my confidant, he was supposed to be my friend and someone to run to whenever I¡¯m in danger.


    Now he has be the danger that I have to run from.


    Whatever posses Louise is strong and it sometimes baffles me.


    I havee to ept that I¡¯m alone in this big city, I used to think I have somebody but not again.


    Louise has bullied me enough and collected every dime I saved for my future.


    It was as if all the job I was doing was only for this man.


    I was practically workin for Louise, enriching him without knowing.


    Is paining me so much that I can¡¯t stop thinking about it.


    This whole issue is hurting me  badly, I can¡¯t think of something else.


    It took my appetite, it took my peace and my happiness.


    I¡¯m at war with myself and wondering how am I supposed to start all over again.


    I feel broken and hurt, I envision how much I had each time and hang onto the hope that atleast I had money and if anything goes wrong my money is my backup.


    Knowing that I have over a million naira in the ount gives me confidence, it makes me happy that no matter what I have something to fall back to.


    Louise ckmailed me, greedily asking for  what he can¡¯t afford even in his ten years of working.


    Phil¡¯s car is notmon, is one of thetest model and super expensive. The interior is breathtaking, the chairs are sofy and inviting.


    The car is unique and notmon. Phil and few other rich guys, very few drives it in the big city.


    Louise want to feel belong, he want to start chilling with the big boys and feeling like he owns the world. He will start walking like he has the entire world on his shoulder.


    He even said that Phil will add a million naira for his few expected.


    Louise is a greedy maggot.


    ¡°God¡± this whole thing is almost driving me crazy. I¡¯m so angry right now.


    I want my money, no, Louise can¡¯t have my sweat and call it nothing.


    Is everything to me, is like my Life, my entire hope depends on it.


    Now is taken away by trick and force, I feel empty.


    I can¡¯t rte, I can¡¯t let go, I can¡¯t keep calm.


    I¡¯m bitter, I¡¯m broken.


    Running away from the house was to find a better version of myself so that by the time I finally returned back home I won¡¯t be the same again.


    I will be somebody my parents will be proud of, they won¡¯t have to look down on me or make me feel less of myself.


    I will be able to gain back my lost glory and take my ce as a full daughter of her parents not as a ve or maid that they almost turned me into.


    Now Louise is making it difficult for me to achieve that goal.


    I supposed to be in school by now but he kept using different storyline whenever I ask for my money to hold me down.


    Now I was even ready to let it all go, all I wanted was for him to leave me and Phil alone and to appreciate the fact that this money I was letting go was my all.


    He didn¡¯t see it as anything, he makes my years of hard work to look like nothing.


    He insulted me and did not see any wrong in his actions.


    Letting go of my money like that was killing me inwardly.


    Since I know better now, I will strategies beforeing at him. He won¡¯t see iting I promised him that.


    He rubbish my whole efforts and making me act as maid and his prostitute. The very thing I dreaded most.


    I¡¯m practically his househelp just like I was doing in my own house back home.


    The only difference was the ill behavioring from your own people is very painful.


    I try not to count it as anything over here but Louise makes everyday in that house looks hellish.


    Louise was only pinning me to the fact that I lied to Phil that he was a family while he is not.


    He nned to expose me, nning on telling Phil that I even ran away from the house.


    Louise want to expose and ridicule me. He probably thoughts he has me exactly where he wants me.


    It will shock him to know that I¡¯m nning ahead of him.


    I¡¯m putting a call across to Phil, I will love to see him tomorrow. Let me tell him everything by myself.


    In that way Louise will loose out, he won¡¯t have anything to use against me again.


    Phil will end everything he has with me, it will break me into pieces but I will be fine at the end.


    My happiness will be that Louise won¡¯t have anything to hold onto anymore. He will be at the loosing end, even though he was still having my money.


    I will ask questions and get around on how to get my money from Louise so that I can use it and move out and move on. I will rent a ce of my own and start my life again, this time on a better note with no obligation to anyone.


    First of all, I really need to see Phil.


    I took a phone and called Phil, he asked me if I was alright I told him that I will love to see him.


    He asked again if everything was fine with me and I replied that everything is fine. He wanted me to tell him whatever it was over the phone but I said no.


    Phil said he wille and pick me up the next day so that I can tell him whatever that¡¯s bothering me since I refused to tell him over the phone.


    He was anxious to know what the problem is but I said is something I have to see him face to face.


    We finally concluded and I look forward to seeing him the next day so that Louise can finally leave me alone and I will have my peace of mind and rest too.


    Sincerely, I had fears but there¡¯s no turning back now.


    This seems like the only solution to this whole trouble from Louise.


    I have made up my mind, i will do it and face whatever consequences thates with it.


    Louise face will be lost in shame. Let me see what he will use again to ckmail me.

 Episode 21

    As I went home that day, I was busy singing different songs while going around doing my chores.


    Louise who happened to be home was wondering what was going on with me.


    Instead of me to be sober I was busy singing and smiling


    He did not bother asking me immediately.


    The following day, he asked me if I havemunicated to Phil concerning histest demands time for It to be achieved.


    I told him that I haven¡¯t informed him of thetest and he went on and on ranting about what he was going to do to me.


    I was not moved one bit with his whole threats, I didn¡¯t even stop to stare at him or show him that I was scared.


    I did not reply or say anything, deep down I can see that he was wondering what I was up to. He kept ranting nonstop seeing that I was not giving him attention.


    The very day I was supposed to meet Phil, I got ready, wore one of my favorite t-shirt with a blue jean jacket and trouser.


    I wore a white sneakers and a portable single chain bag


    I put on some cologne just to smell nice. I apply simple make up. I wasn¡¯t a serious makeup type but once in a while I try to apply little.


    I checked myself in the mirror to be certain that I was looking okay.


    It was a weekend, he wasing to pick me up maybe to a cool spot where we can chill out. It will be a private lounge just for two of us, quiet with nice music ying in the background


    There I will tell him everything he needs to know.


    Today May be our final departure, it maybe thest day that we get to be together.


    After telling him everything about me he may decide to dump me and even insult me too.


    He may feel like I was deceiving him and leading him along while living with a man.


    Phil will be very angry and may never forgive me. It will hurt me really bad, it will be a deep wound. I will be sad, lonely and frustrated but I know with time I will be alright.


    No one understands my journey, no one will understand my story even if I try to tell it all.


    But it does not really matter if they understand or not.


    Is my life and I won¡¯t let myself down.


    I will return back home someday, a lively and happy person. I will be a better version of myself and live my life to the fullest.


    When I¡¯m done with Phil, I will put Louise in his ce.


    I will find a means and get my money from him.


    I won¡¯t let him hold back everything I have worked for all this years.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I need that money to restart my life again and I will try different means to get it even if it means involving the police.


    I was standing by the mirror watching myself and wondering how today will go.


    I gasped out slowly before taking thest look at myself.


    I was looking alright and my outfit was perfect.


    I try to look on the bright side by smiling. I gasped again before stepping out.


    Louise who was in the sitting room saw me and asked me where I was dressed to.


    Before I could answer him he said ¡°¡­ oh Phil, you¡¯re going on a date with your rich boyfriend which will dump your fat a$s if you don¡¯t dance to my tune soon. Infact I¡¯m giving you this to give me a positive feedback, a positive answer otherwise i will take the honor of exposing you. This week and it won¡¯t pass it¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t reply because I know the honor will be mine at the end. Louise won¡¯t have thestugh, I won¡¯t let him. I¡¯m going to expose myself and he won¡¯t have anything to hang onto. He will loose bnce and fall t.


    I ignored him and started moving towards the door


    ¡°¡­. By the way you¡¯re looking nice. I can see the good handwork of your rich boyfriend showing on your body. I will be a partaker of his giveaway soon, You can¡¯t be enjoying alone. Today is another opportunity to remind your Phil and beat it loudly into his ears that I need my car and money urgently. Use this opportunity well April or you will have alot of regretsing your way¡­¡±


    I stepped out without a word.


    I called Phil again that I was already out waiting for him. He asked me to hold on that he was close by.


    In no time I saw Phil¡¯s car driving down.


    I started moving slowly from the bustop where I was waiting for him.


    He parked and I crossed over to join him and we drove off.


    We chatted for a while as I try to feel at ease with the tension building in.


    My heart beat wanted to start speeding in fear but I try to slow it down.


    Phil admired my outfit and said I was looking beautifully smart.


    I smile and thanked him as he bent over and pecked my cheeks while still driving.


    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful April, I know you must have heard this line severally but I still want to let you know that you are a masterpiece, smart, outspoken, intelligent and fun to be with. Another thing is that you don¡¯t disappoint with your dress sense. You dress like a model and I love everything about you. This is not a ttery, I mean every word I said¡­¡±


    I thanked him as I blushed a little with a full smile on my face.


    Who will hear all this lovely thingsing from a well exposed man like Phil, who has so many beautiful, matured sophisticated women crowding around him all the time yet he choose me. Which woman will hear him say all of this things without feeling like she is on top of the world.


    ¡°¡­ I got something for you. I hope you will love it


    He said and I replied while still smiling


    ¡°You spoil me too much Phil, you¡¯re always getting something for me¡­¡±


    He was grinning from ear to ear. He looks so happy. Either because we¡¯re hanging out together or my presence was giving him joy.


    ¡°I will give it to you when we get to the ce. Putting smile on your face is my job¡­ I never want to see you unhappy. And please whenever you need anything¡­ anything at all please don¡¯t hesitate to let me know. I love you April with my whole heart. You upy all the space¡­ Nothing is left.¡±


    I began tough, I felt rxed and at peace whenever I¡¯m with Phil. He has a special way of making me feel at peace with myself.


    I replied back that I also love him.


    I thought of Louise and frown


    An idea pops into my head and I decided to ask.


    ¡°¡­ what will I do that will make your Love for me to diminish or turn into hate? I mean what is the highest offence that I willmit that will make you dislike my person and will not want to have anything to do with me again?


    I asked yful but deep down I really wanted to know. I became scared of loosing him and stylishly throw in the question.


    He became silent while still smiling.


    ¡°I can¡¯t really think of anything that will warrant such. Hate is a strong word¡­ I don¡¯t think I will ever hate you April. You¡¯re like an angel and very special to me. You do no wrong in my sight and nothing will ever make me dislike you¡­ I¡¯m not sure there¡¯s anything as such¡­¡±


    I urged him to think deep. What is his turn off in a woman that he happens to be in a rtionship with.


    ¡°.. uhmm, I still can¡¯t think of anything. Maybe because you¡¯re seated close to me, I¡¯m not thinking straight anymore. But.. maybe when my woman cheats. cheating is a turn off for me. Is better thedy breaks up with me and start another rtionship than having another guy and pretending like I¡¯m her only man. No one deserves such a disgusting treatment¡­ not the guy or even ady. In a rtionship, the both party owns each other loyalty. Respect, care, truth and love. That¡¯s not a demand is just natural for both party involved.  Lies, cheating and violent is a big time turn off for me. I know most faithful fellows can rte to this. No one deserves to be treated with disdain, disrespect or lies. Being faithful shouldn¡¯t be up for a debate in a rtionship, is a must¡­¡±


    He turned to look at me. I managed to smile. I wasn¡¯t okay at all. It was as if he was indirectly talking about me.


    ¡°¡­ April, you don¡¯t have anything to worry or fear when ites to be being faithful to you. Is your right and I will never deprive you of that. I can beat my chest and say that you¡¯re hundred percent faithful too. you¡¯re cool headed, calm, homely and probably never had a serious boyfriend¡­ or have you been in a serious rtionship. Not the high school kind of rtionship. I mean a very serious one¡­?


    ¡°Yes¡­ I mean not really.. I used to, well.. is not.. I wanted to say that I use¡­ never had¡­¡± I was obviously stuttering.


    I look so guilt stricken but Phil suddenly began tough and hisughter eased my tensed body.


    ¡°I knew it¡­ I know the rtionship you¡¯re talking about is the high school type. I¡¯m probably your first or second man. You¡¯re too young and might not have any serious experience when ites to rtionship. Don¡¯t be frightened my love, I will never hurt you or make you sad¡­ deliberately. If I¡¯m doing anything that you don¡¯t like please, don¡¯t fail to call my attention to it. I might be carried away or unknowingly act without thinking. But I will never deliberately hurt your feelings. So make sure you let me know whenever I do things that you¡¯re not please with¡­ alright?


    I nodded. He gently brushed his hand on my cheek.


    He kept driving. ¡°What of your cousin¡­ brother, Louise.. hope he¡¯s doing alright. He called mest week, I forgot to tell you¡­ but I assume you are aware. He was obviously checking up on me. He asked about my car model and how much I got it. He mentioned he loves it and looking forward to having something like it soon. When I told him the amount I got the car he screamed and said is really expensive but he is still interested in having it. Heter asked if you told me how much he admires the car? I said you never mentioned it. He said no problem, he just wanted to check up and to tell me that while taking care of you I shouldn¡¯t forget him too¡­¡±


    Phil began tough as he continued. ¡°¡­ He said it jokingly and we bothugh about it. I appreciate him for checking up. My mind felt at rest knowing that you¡¯re in a safe hand. I love the fact that you¡¯re with a family rather than a friend. I don¡¯t like my woman staying with her friends because they may mislead her. Maybe, if we¡¯re going home we will get something nice for Louise. Like a thank you gift for taking good care of you. What do you think?


    I nodded with a smile.


    I felt relived when we finally arrived at our destination.


    He parked and we stepped down.


    He had a square small box in hand which I believe is the gift. ¡°Did he want to propose? I said silently to myself.


    That¡¯s a crazy idea and the beautiful box looks bigger, not the type of a ring size box


    He was holding my hands as we walked into this nice cool spot.


    He took me to the VIP and we got seated.


    He ordered for things and handed the box to me.


    He asked me to open it and I quickly did.


    Curiosity got the best of me.


    The inside was indeed beautiful, a gold chain with two fine bracelet.


    They¡¯re so beautiful.


    I was thanking him repeatedly.


    Untill I met Phil I have never had anything so expensive.


    Phil never stop giving me gifts. Different types and all expensive.


    I have never gotten him anything.


    What can you get for a man that has it all.


    Maybe I will think of something that I can give him.


    Is not the heart of giving that matter not the gift itself.


    I couldn¡¯t take much of the goodies that was brought to the table. I was just thinking about how I will tell him about Louise.


    Isn¡¯t it the reason I asked him to hang out, is the major reason why we are here.


    Before leaving the house my mind was strong and I was ready to spill it all out to him. I wanted to let out the cat from the bag and didn¡¯t want to hold back anything


    The strength and zeal I had before I entered his car has vanished.


    I no longer have any strength, I¡¯m just like a scared little mouse right now.


    I don¡¯t know where or how to start anymore.


    I can¡¯t afford to loose Phil but if I don¡¯t do this Louise will expose me.


    And from everything that Phil said today concerning his type of rtionship, I¡¯m standing on a dangerousne.


    Phil has been good to me, he had loved me effortlessly and supported me.


    He made me feel loved, he appreciates me. He does not only cares for me but also for people around me.


    I can¡¯t hurt him, I will never.. ever hurt Phil with my secret.


    He does not deserve such and I may never find a man like him again.


    Men like Louise are everywhere, men feeling entitled and trying to reap where they did not sow. Abusive men, pretenders, womanizers. Egoistic men, prideful, rude and liars. They¡¯re cheap to get, they¡¯re everywhere and very good in pretending.


    Their names may not necessarily be Louise but Louise is a perfect example.


    If a Lady meet them, they will mistake them for a prince charming not knowing that they are wolf in sheep clothing.


    They can pretend for months but one day they will show off their true nature and leaving thedy in a shocked state.


    Phil type of a man is rare, not cheap, not pretenders, they are real and expensive.


    If ady is lucky to encounter one, she should avoid those things that will hurt him and make sure she reciprocate their love.


    I¡¯m lucky to have Phil in my life and I won¡¯t let anything to ruine it.


    Not even Louise.


    ¡°So, what is that you wanted to tell me?


    Phil asked bringing back to the present.


    ¡°¡­ you seem to be a little bit distanced. Is anything bothering you April? Remember, you can talk to me¡­ I promise I will always be here for you and will support you emotionally, physically and financially. All I need from you is trust, trust me because I trust you..¡±


    Words dries from my mouth. I didn¡¯t know where to start from again.

 Episode 22.

    ¡°Nothing serious, I just wanted to talk to you about¡­ bout¡­¡±


    I was thinking of anything to say to him that makes sense.


    He urged me to continue.


    ¡°¡­ about Job. Yes¡­ Job..¡±


    He gave me a serious look and said with a surprised tune.


    ¡°Oh, you remember I asked you sometime toe work in mypany but youter declined. Did they sack you from your the present ce of work or you just want something new and better¡­¡±


    I told hiy that I wasn¡¯t sacked I just wanted to upgrade.


    ¡°I¡¯m happy that you¡¯re finally agreeing to my initial n. Give me thising week, I will fix you up somewhere nice and andfy in the office. You will resume next month. Atleast I will get to see you whenever I wish. But was that the only reason you wanted to see me? I thought it was something serious¡­ you almost scared me. I was afraid that you wanted to break up with me. I was ready to knee and beg like a child begging his momma for some extra snacks. I feel relieved that it wasn¡¯t something serious¡­¡±


    I thanked him and we had alot of other things to converse.


    Weter left and he asked me what he can get for Louise, he suggested some designer wears but I told him that Louise likes money and will prefer money instead.


    I even chirped in another thing carefully.


    ¡°.. Louise also likes cars, I wish I have money I would have surprised him with his dream car¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s sweet. Louise is indeed taking good care of you and he must be a nice brother for you to think of him in this special way. I have an old car in my garage, not too old though.  I bought it three years ago but is still very okay and looks new too. I wanted to give it out to one of my friend having little challenges but because of you I¡¯m ready to give it to Louise. If making him happy will put a smile on your face then I¡¯m ready to do anything. Is a Hignder, very fast and strong car. When this my car came out I wanted to get it because it was like machine. I worked hard and gathered enough money to buy it. It was after then I stopped driving the Hignder Jeep


    I¡¯m sure Louise will love the Hignder, is nice car..¡±


    I was happy but I had little fear due to the way Louise was making serious emphasis on Phil¡¯s expensive car.


    Phil¡¯s car is called Benz, one of the most most expensive and fastest car in town.


    Louise wanting something he can¡¯t afford baffles me, he can¡¯t even afford half of the money yet he wants to reap where he didn¡¯t sow. That¡¯s the normal Louise way.


    Phil opened an envelope, counted lots of money and deep insides the envelope before closing.


    He handed it to me for Louise.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    He also deep hand into his wallet, brought out plenty cash and hand it over to me without counting it.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t like cash gift, you made it known the first day we met and I know I have tried to change that by buying you gifts instead. But I will love you to give yourself a little treat, I want you to keep looking radiant and beautiful for me. I know your sry is just a stipend and may not even be enough for a whole month. So take this cash and do whatever you want with it..¡±


    He does not need to say anything, I actually needed the money and n to start saving again by myself to avoid heartbreaking story.


    I thanked him and we shared few kisses, followed by more kisses.


    It was only kisses and nothing more.


    I didn¡¯t want the moment to stop. Phil got me in a very special way.


    Louise does not evene close to such affection.


    He dropped me that night and didn¡¯t move immediately untill I was safely inside before I heard him drive off.


    Louise did not even allow me get inside he began his ranting.


    ¡°You would have slept there, look at the time that you areing back. I know Philip must have gone ten round on you because you¡¯re cheap. You¡¯re now acting like a harlot around him because he is rich. You want to use your body to entice him, you are just too naive. Philip will dump your ass when he is down sucking every juice left in your body dry. Be deceiving yourself, thinking he loves you, a wealthy guy like that only wants to have fun and after he is tired of you then he will kick you off. But for the main time that he is still enjoying your over stiffed body, I want to get my car and my money. So how far with it¡­ when did he finally agreed to get me my car?


    I try to be very calctive in my reply.


    Anger was trying to have the best of me but I try to hold back.


    ¡°, Phil said, business isn¡¯t very fair at the moment, so he can¡¯t afford that type of expensive car. But he is ready to get you another¡­ a Hignder Jeep that¡¯s worth about lots of millions¡­¡±


    Louise cut in as I was still talking.


    ¡°He can afford what. Philip is a millionaire, I checked hispany¡¯s worth the other day and it is worth a Fortune. That guy has money, he is only stringy. I almost thought you didn¡¯t mention anything to him because I actually called him the other day and stylishly asked him about the car he sounded like he knows nothing about it. Well, I¡¯m d he is aware but only pretending like he does not understand exactly my point. Tell him that I¡¯m not settling for less, Hignder Jeep maybe expensive too but is that Benz that I want. Is not everybody¡¯s kind of car because not everyone can afford it. I¡¯m not settling for less or anything that looks like Benz. Is either Benz or nothing else. Tell that to him and I expect it before this month ends. That¡¯s period¡­ he wants to substitute Benz for Hignder, that¡¯s madness, who does such a thing? If you have to serve him your body as breakfast, lunch and dinner just for him to consider you better do so because I promise, I will expose you. I will disgrace you and you will loose Phil at same time loose me, when you loose me you have loosed everything. So you better act fast because there is no time for all this lovey dovey thing you¡¯re doing with him. I¡¯m warning you for your own good¡­¡±


    I went into the toilet with my bag and began to count the money he gave Louise.


    It was seventy thousand, while mine was fifty six thousand. In total I had over a hundred thousand because I wasn¡¯t nning on giving Louise a dime.


    I will use the money Phil asked me to give him to nurse all the insults he threw at me that day.


    I stepped out and saw himing out of the room.


    He asked me if Phil gave me some money because he needed some urgently to send to one of his woman visiting him the next day and I told him that Phil only bought a gift for me. He does not like giving out cash.


    Louise called him a stringy man


    He asked me toe and show him the bed style I did with Phil.


    I told him if he dares touch me I will unfailingly go to the police and report him as a rapist.


    He was shocked when I threatened him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve really grown wings. I will teach you a serious lesson by the time I wait this month end and I don¡¯t see my car. You think you¡¯re wise, I will prove you wrong¡­ watch and see¡­¡±


    He angrily left.


    I walked into the room with all my money. I¡¯m feeling rich with all the money I got in one day without doing anything. I looked around before hiding it securely.


    I still haven¡¯t thought of a way to go about telling Phil the truth


    I don¡¯t know how I¡¯m going to go about it but I will find a way but for now I don¡¯t want to ruin this moment or the little time I still have with Phil


    before everything wille crashing let me enjoy the moment.

 Episode 23

    I started nning on how to get more money, save up and move out.


    I don¡¯t even have any friend or colleague that is free and I can stay with.


    They¡¯re either staying with somebody or theirs no space at their end.


    I couldn¡¯t even move in with anybody even if there was a space because Phil already made it clear that he does not like the idea of me staying with a friend.


    His fear was they may mislead me


    The only option right now is to get a ce of my own and I can also be able to start fighting for my money that¡¯s in Louise hand from a different location.


    I¡¯m still very scared of telling Phil about Louise and I. I wish to but each time fear get full hold of me.


    I really want to move out of Louise house. I don¡¯t want to associate with him any longer.


    I will be starting my new job by Monday and Louise isn¡¯t aware yet and I don¡¯t n telling him anything


    I n on doing something to get money, I don¡¯t know if is the right thing but I can¡¯t think of anything else.


    I told Phil that I needed small cash to send to my younger sister who wants to write her school exam and also money that she can use to buy some books since my parents have other responsibilities.


    Phil asked me how much I needed, I told him anything he can afford.


    He said I should be specific. ¡°how much is the exam fee¡± he asked again.


    I was quiet and shy to mention any amount but after much push I told him about 200k.


    He said two hundred thousand just for exam? What kind of exam was my kid sister writing?


    I never thought of the lies and it was not properly organized.


    I never thought Phil will start asking all of that.


    I started stuttering again, as I began to think of any exam that¡¯s very expensive.


    He asked me to stop stuttering that he will give me the money but he will have to see me first before giving it to me.


    I was afraid at first but I have no choice than to see him that weekend.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    He picked me up and I can¡¯t hide the fact that I was truly afraid


    Did Louise mention anything to him, was my lies very obvious.


    Did he knows anything else about me apart from the fact that I¡¯m Louise cousin sister.


    Why did he make it sound urgent when he said he wanted to see me.


    We hanged out and had a good time with good food.


    Is been two weeks already after ourst hangout that he gave me money and also for Louise.


    I was supposed to be resuming in hispany few days from now which makes it begining of a new month.


    What exactly is the problem.


    As I sat beside him at the passenger side of the car. He looked at me with a full smile.


    ¡°My Queen, my angel. You¡¯re as beautiful as ever. When is your next birthday? I want to make it special for you¡­¡±


    I blushed with full smile and told him


    ¡°April 13th. That¡¯s my birthday and is just around the corner. Two months time¡­. I will be 20. I remember when I clocked 18 and then 19. My 19th birthday was at work nothing special. I can¡¯t believe that I¡¯m already turning 20¡­¡±


    This time I was actuallyughing.


    He pat my cheek gently.


    ¡°You don¡¯t look 20, you look 25.  You actually act and think like some 19 to 20years old tho.  Some of your behavior is childish sometimes also  in line with your age. Well, I still love everything about you. You¡¯re still my baby. Have you thought of school? What is your n for the future? Have you thought of any yet? Your Mom and Dad¡­ you don¡¯t talk about them. Hope they¡¯re alright? I know Louise is your cousin, do you have siblings or you¡¯re the only child. I really want to know more about you my love and see if there¡¯s a way I can be of help. You mentioned your sister writing exam¡­¡±


    I quickly interrupted


    ¡°Yea¡­ yes she called asking me for some money. My parents are alive and well but they¡¯re not working big jobs that fetch them lots of money if not I wouldn¡¯t have asked you for help. I have ns for school but it didn¡¯t work out the way I nned it but I¡¯m working on another n. If you don¡¯t have the money or up-to the amount I mentioned then is fine. I totally understand.. my sister is ready to wait until I have the money or she may even choose to skip it¡­¡±


    He looked at me puzzled


    ¡°What kind of exam is that April? I mean why will she wait, will the exam be waiting for her too until she is fully ready? Skipping it.. that part I don¡¯t get it.. isn¡¯t it an important exam¡­ maybe high school exams or nning to get into higher institution. I guess is your kid sister?


    I nodded and try to think of another lie to cover up the first lie.


    ¡°¡­ you don¡¯t need to say anything again, I¡¯m guessing the exam stuffs is probably not true..!


    He was quiet as he stared at me for few seconds. I try to defend myself he continued.


    ¡°¡­ you sound scared and uncertain when you talk about it but that does not dispute the fact that you probably needed money or your family does. I Love you April and you don¡¯t need to paint words or lie to get to me. I told you to feel free and always let me know whenever you¡¯re in need. I want you to understand that I¡¯m a man of my word. Come straight out to me and tell me you needed money or anything at all and I will definitely try and make it happen. Even if I don¡¯t have it at that moment, I will let you know when it will be ready. Don¡¯t cook up any story, fabricate lies or be scared when you need something from me dear. Is absolutely unnecessary. I will give you the money alright but please try and be straight forward with me. I told you what turns me off thest time and lies is part of it. Please is more ssy when you¡¯re open with me and direct. I won¡¯t have cause to start worrying¡­ alright?


    I nooded quietly. My lies and the attitude I portray didn¡¯t go well.


    I felt so much ashamed.


    ¡°¡­ What about Louise? Is he okay¡­ he did not get back to me concerning the Hignder in my garage? What did he say when you told him? Also the money¡­ hope he didn¡¯t feel indifference with the amount? He didn¡¯t call or say anything¡­ I¡¯m more concerned about his stand on the car. Does he want it or not?


    I thought of what to say.


    I never gave the money to Louise and the car he insisted on Phil¡¯s kind of car. He said he won¡¯t settle for anything less, is either Benz or nothing else but I can¡¯t possibly tell Phil all of that.


    I was scared and didn¡¯t know what kind of lie to tell this time.


    ¡°Louise is busy¡­ I guess and he will get back to you..¡±


    that¡¯s all I can think off.


    ¡°I will call him tonight or tomorrow, he probably felt the amount I gave him is too small or he does not understand fully that the car is Hignder which is almost all big boys choice of a car. I¡¯m sure I will get to understand what exactly is the problem and why he haven¡¯t called. Being busy isn¡¯t an excuse though. Don¡¯t worry April, your cousin wille to understand that I love you and ready to go extra mile to prove that. Just knowing me alone, Louise will have alot to be thankful for in future¡­¡±


    He smiled and kissed me. He straightened, brought out an envelope and hand it over to me.


    ¡°.. that¡¯s two hundred and fifty thousand April. I might be rich but I don¡¯t squander or spend cash anyhow. I work hard for every dime I spend and I will like you not to spend it on useless things. I¡¯m not a fraudster and money may not always be avable to spend as we like at all time but it won¡¯t get so bad not to spend at all. If you n sending to anybody then whatever is left, kindly manage it untill I have more to give you okay..? I will call Louise tomorrow¡­¡±


    I was scared and shaky at the moment he said he was going to call Louise.


    I asked him not to bother himself that I will ask Louise to call him instead.


    But he insisted and said it wasn¡¯t a problem. ¡°¡­ If Louise wanted to call he could have called the moment he got the money i sent to him through youst two weeks or even at the mention of the car to him. Phil added.


    Phil felt that something must be bothering Louise and he wants to know what exactly it was so that it doesn¡¯t affect me in anyway.


    I thanked him for the huge amount as he went to drop me off.


    I was thinking hard and deep or what to do next, especially now that Phil n to call Louise.


    (Do NOT copy or share)

 Episode 24.

    I thought deep and hard on what next to do.


    I have already dropped my resignation at my ce of work and will be resuming at Philip¡¯spany.


    I can¡¯t seem to rx or even sleep. I try to close my eyes and clear my mind but I can¡¯t stop thinking.


    By morning I supposed to be at my new ce of work early.


    Louise doesn¡¯t know that I have resigned and I asked them to pay sry into my new ount not the old which will be like sending to Louise.


    No more, I¡¯m still thinking of how to recover my money from him.


    My sry was paid into the new ount I was in charge off.


    I will also pay in the new money I collected from Phil into the new ount.


    I have about 200k in the ount, if I include the recent one I just got from Philip it will be 450k. Four hundred and fifty thousand. That will be enough to get a ce of my own, buy bed and few items inside.


    My colleagues didn¡¯t want me to go, they said that they will all miss me. I told them that I will also miss them but our hopes and prayers is to grow in all aspects and time to aim higher hase for me, I don¡¯t want to miss out.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    They all bid me farewell and promise to call once in a while.


    My two close friends there asked me to also look out for them, they also want something better and if I happen to see a vacancy, even if is at the newpany that I was resuming they said I shouldn¡¯t fail to let them know.


    They want to also upgrade just like me.


    I promised to look out for them and to call from time to time.


    I was thinking about everything, I couldn¡¯t sleep. And my most worries was Philip calling Louise.


    It was just Saturday that I was with Philip, I have watched and kept my ears down to know if Philip will call Louise, I was on my feet, scared and worried how disasterous everything will turn out for me.


    But I was lucky enough that Philip didn¡¯t call Louise, I was very sure of it.


    Even when we spoke that evening, I did not want to mention anything Louise to Philip¡¯s hearing because that may remind him, he has probably forgotten and saying something about Louise may remind him


    But even at that, I can¡¯t still excuse my fears, I was still very much afraid.


    Just then an idea pops into my head.


    A fantastic idea that can help me out.


    I wonder why I haven¡¯t thought of it all this while.


    It was very risky, dangerous idea and may Land me into more serious trouble if I get caught but that is my only way out from Phil reaching Louise.


    I checked the time it was almost 1:30am. Louise supposed to be asleep.


    I will tip toe to the room, where he is sleeping and retrieve his phone from where he kept it.


    I will go through his contact, find Philip¡¯s number and block it.


    Even if Phil calls it won¡¯t be reachable because his number is blocked on Louise¡¯s phone.


    My sleeping ce is mostly in the living room and if Louise decided to sleep in the parlour then I move to the bedroom.


    I¡¯m avoiding him like gue, he had made attempt the other night with me and I began to scream very loud and he quickly left me alone but not without insult and more threats.


    I know living in this house is at my own risk and that is why I have to move out.


    I¡¯m not ready to lose Philip yet, I¡¯m not ready to face the pending trouble.


    I have to think smart and be smart too.


    i got no one to figure out things for me or advice me, that¡¯s why I have to think ahead so that I won¡¯t be taken unaware.


    Phil is the only man that cares about me, he loves me and want the best for me.


    He is well to do and can help me run my life smoothly.


    I won¡¯t let Louise ruin all of that for me. I won¡¯t.


    I stood up and tip toed to the room, the room light was off, only the bedside light was dime.


    I try to be careful in order not to wake Louise.


    I haven¡¯t seen his phone yet as I scanned through.


    He moved his body like he was trying to change position.


    I quickly rushed out of the room.


    I just have to think of how to get hold of his phone.


    As morning approached, that was when I started feeling sleepy.


    I can¡¯t bete on my first day at work.


    Atleast I managed to catch an hour sleep after my unsessful mission in getting Louise¡¯s phone.


    I started preparing for work, I got ready and when Louise came out, he saw that I was almost ready.


    ¡°Are you now the security guard that opens the gate at work or they have made you the manager? Why so early or you want to branch at Philip¡¯s house and collect morning romantic dose in his bedroom? If you¡¯re now your office manager you tell me so that I will know how much we will be expecting at the end of the month. By the way why haven¡¯t they send your sry yet, anyway¡­ is still early. Let me wait for more days and after then I will know what to think¡­¡±


    He walked to the toilet without his phone.


    I rushed to the room, found his phone and realized it was on password.


    I started trying different things that pops into my head.


    I suddenly remembered that he once told me his password in the past and I used to unlock his phone back then.


    I tried it and it opened, I quickly typed in Philip¡¯s number and blocked it before deleting.


    I can hear the toilet door opened, followed by foot sound.


    I hurriedly try to return the phone but it dropped from my hand to the ground.


    I wanted to leave it there but it will look suspicious.


    I picked it up and checked if the screen is okay, just then Louise came.


    ¡°What are you doing with my phone, hope is not my phone that fell. I heard something fell¡­ is not my phone right?


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was trying to make the bed and it slipped off my hand when I wanted to drop it on the dresser but nothing happened to It. The screen is not broken¡­ no damage¡­¡±


    He took it and began to examine it.


    ¡°You¡¯re lucky today but don¡¯t rejoice yet because I know exactly who to call for a new phone the moment this phone start misbehaving. This phone cost.. hundred, no¡­ two hundred and fifty thousand, plus all the work I did in it, in total it will be about 300k. The way I¡¯m looking at this phone you dropped to the ground is going to start malfunctioning starting today. I will definitely call Philip for a new phone because already I was looking forward to getting a new phone, you brought opportunity on my way and made it easy¡­ I will make sure I use it well..¡±


    I quickly made the bed that I don¡¯t intend doing before, picked up my bag and left.


    I¡¯m d that mission of removing Phil¡¯s number is aplished.


    Let me see how he will call or receive calls from Phil again.


    I want to get to the office early, even before Phil so that he will see how serious I was with my new job.


    Today is going to be a good day. I must focus on the positivity and forget everything that will spoil my day.


    I slept off while in the bus and was awaken when I got closer to the ce I will alight.


    I just hope sleep won¡¯t embarrass me at work.


    I thank God that nothing happened to Louise phone, I¡¯m very happy that Phil¡¯s number is out of his phone.


    That alone makes me happy.

 Episode 25

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I was shown my new office and thepany¡¯s HR, human resources, said I was going to be assigned to the BDM, business development manager who will guide me through on what my job entails.


    I don¡¯t even know the position I was put on, it was during the week that I found out what I will be doing


    I will be acting as an assistant to the BDM, our office is close to each other.


    I was like a junior staff but when I was given my employmentter and the sry amount I saw there makes me check if the letter was for me or belongs to someone else.


    I checked the names on it again and it had my name on it which is still unbelievable because the sry and benefits was far beyond me.


    One hundred and fifty thousand, what? How can they pay me this huge amount, I don¡¯t even know my left and right when ites to this white cor job.


    Thedies and guys were all well dress and majorly graduates.


    Some higher office men and madams have cars and I wonder how much will be there own sry.


    They are the ones to collect this one hundred and fifty thousand, while the younger staff will be hundred


    People like me should be around fifty. My mind was focused on fifty thousand highest as sry.


    My previous ce of work was thirty which theyter added five thousand making it thirty-five.


    Since Phil said I will be paid well here, I assumed it maybe fifty not one hundred and fifty.


    My job was only to assist and is not every time that my assistant is needed.


    Phil just wanted me to being here and at the end of the month I get paid huge amount for leaving the house.


    I only saw him on my first resumption day, he came to wee me and introduce me to the entire staff.


    I haven¡¯t seen him again because he is always busy while in the office and he told me that we have to respect the office attics¡­ whatever he meant by that.


    But i guess he meant we have to act official and not start ying lovey dovey in the office.


    That¡¯s obviously not allowed.


    I love it here, I¡¯m enjoying it and it still felt like a dream.


    I was also giving a new phone with a new line and I¡¯m allowed to take it home.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Phil sometimes call me with the office phone whenever I¡¯m home.


    My phone is on silent and always inside my beg whenever I¡¯m home so that Louise won¡¯t get hold of it or start asking questions.


    I changed the pack of the new phone and since Phil is the only important caller I usually get I saved his name with a female name on the contact.


    I know what I was doing and it was just the best idea that can work around Louise.


    Phil is the overall boss here, he have alot of beautiful female staff that I did not even reach half in anything.


    They are ssy, beautiful and smart.


    I sometimes wonder how Phil did not see all this women yet he came to me, a nobody with no ss or educational background.


    Maybe I¡¯m just lucky, luck yed a good game on me with Phil but a bad game with Louise.


    Talking about Louise, he has been whining andining that he doesn¡¯t know how Phil¡¯s number disappeared from his phone.


    He wanted to call him toin over his phone that I deliberately smashed on the ground which was obviously a lie.


    He asked me for Phil¡¯s number, i lied that my phone was missing at work.


    I  have started leaving my other phone at work and also switched it off because leaving it in my bag may backfire when Louise finds out.


    I was using the office phone secretly. Either whenever Louise is out or asleep.


    He caught me one day and asked me which phone I was using, I was not afraid to defend it.


    I got an old phone pack for the phone which makes it appear like an old phone but I make sure I switched it back to the main fine pouch that the phone actually came with whenever I¡¯m at work.


    Louise asked for Phil¡¯s mobile number.


    I lied to him that I was not talking to Phil rather to a female friend at work who happens to be my best friend too. She was the one that gave me the phone to be using until I¡¯m able to get another.


    I showed him the name of the person.


    Angelica was the name I used in saving Phil¡¯s name.


    Louise asked how I wasmunicating with Phil, I replied that I haven¡¯t seen Phil for days now because he traveled and won¡¯t be back soon until maybe a month or two.


    He insisted that he needed his number and also time was running out for him toply with the things he wanted.


    He haven¡¯t heard from him all this while and he was tired of waiting, action is what he will be taking next because I have failed in telling him repeatedly, sounding it like warning so that he will get him his car and money. Phil was supposed toply and do the needful by now.


    Louise said he will look for means to get Phil¡¯s number because he is the only means he has now in getting rich and driving a big boys car.


    I totally ignored him, I know that there was no means for him to reach Phil.


    He can threaten me all he wants but is the end of the game for him.


    He can nevermunicate or see Phil again. So, I¡¯m smarter, wiser and I¡¯m


    w weinning as usual.


    My new ount was given to thepany for the paying of sry.


    I told Louise that there is a setback in the supermarket that I work and our sries are being dyed.


    He thinks that I¡¯m lying and making stuffs up but I don¡¯t care.


    I have contacted an agent to search for a room and and parlour but the amount he mentioned was extremely much.


    I decided to go for a standard one room. After work, I went to see the two houses.


    I liked one more and choose it because it was very far from Louise ce and hidden too.


    It was a new house and very fine too.


    I made payment of three hundred thousand for everything, which includes agent and agreement.


    The rent will be one hundred and fifty thousand per annum.


    Paying that amount in a year is not much because is actually my one month sry.


    Isn¡¯t that amazing, I¡¯m happy that I have gotten a ce of my own and the agent said once I move in he will bring my receipt and I can always call him anytime I¡¯m ready to move in so that he can bring my keys for me.


    Just as the month about to end, Phil said he wasing to my ce to spend the Saturday.


    I also got my sry that week which was around 23rd of the month way too early for sry but I was happy.


    My former ce of work, if the month is not up-to 28 or 30th no sry.


    I love everything about this ce.


    I told Phil that Louise wasn¡¯t around.


    He insisted that he wanted toe anyway.


    Louise number haven¡¯t been going through through and is being a while he came around my end, he said.


    I know I blocked Phil¡¯s number on Louise¡¯s phone and before taking it down.


    I know that¡¯s why he can¡¯t reach Louise buting to my side will ruin my life.


    He was insisting and I was trying toe up with a lie that will discourage him.


    I can¡¯t afford Louise seeing Phil it will be a disaster.


    Not now that my life was begining to make sense


    I won¡¯t allow anything ruin it for me.


    I¡¯m hoping that Phil will change his mind froming over.

 Episode 26

    Knowing that convincing Phil to change his mind abouting over by the weekend for a visit will be hard, I started strategizing other means.


    Phil visit will ruin lots of things for me, sitting and talking to Louise will be throwing my life offshore.


    I know I can¡¯t convince Louise to leave or go out on Saturday or Sunday but I¡¯m sure I will be able to convince Phil.


    If I ask him toe over to my side for a visit he may agree to do so and going over to Louise will be a history.


    Why will Phil go over to Louis¡¯s house when I have a ce of my own.


    He can visit anytime he likes and Louise will never know where I live.


    I have been able to dy hising by telling him that Louise traveled and won¡¯t be back until next month.


    He agreed to wait until next month when Louise will be back


    Louise doesn¡¯t know that I¡¯m working ahead of him.


    At the end of the day he will be at lose.


    I was already thinking of forgetting about the money he owes me.


    This my new job is everything I need and I can make enough money here to do whatever i wish to do.


    I understand clearly that asking Louise continuesly for my money will only makes him more mad and he will continue to threaten me.


    Reminding me of how he is feeding and amodating me. He will include other expenses that isn¡¯t necessary which he will use as a cover up.


    I will just agree with the fact that my money is really gone.


    All my year of saving, over a million disappeared in Louise hand.


    He was still not satisfied after that.


    He is still not okay after collecting all my hard savings.


    He remains greedy and asking for far more than anyone can offer him.


    ckmailing me and waiting for who will buy him expensive car and apany it with a million again for his expenses.


    He won¡¯t get a pin from me or Phil, he won¡¯t even see Phil to start telling him nonsense.


    I need to set up my house as quick as possible.


    I paid three hundred thousand for my new apartment and I still have money remaining to furnish it.


    I have over two hundred thousand in my ount and that is the money for bed, chairs, kitchen appliances, television sets, wardrobe and other necessary things.


    I will make sure that the money is enough for everything.


    I will buy alot of food stuffs with my next sry.


    I needed to call my house agent to get my house keys across to me


    He can keep the receipt because yo don¡¯t really need it.


    I called the agent number at work that week but his number was not going through.


    I kept trying It until the following day.


    It was in the following day that a man picked up and I told him that I have been calling since.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I thought it was the agent that I was talking with, unknown to me is not.


    The person said it was a wrong number after I exined the reason why I was calling.


    I told him it can¡¯t be a wrong number because that is the only number he gave me.


    The man insisted that I was calling a wrong number because he does not know anything about any house or agent.


    He said he was a butcher, he sell meat in one market in a far away state.


    He asked me not to disturb his line again because I was distracting him from attending to his customer.


    I took excuse and left work early that day, I was unstable as I took taxi and rushed down to the house.


    It was open, already upied by another.


    I was angry as I began hitting the door.


    Who is that upying my apartment.


    A pregnant woman came out to open the door.


    ¡°Yes, can I help you? she said?


    ¡°You¡¯re in my apartment madam. I paid for this apartment three weeks ago and I n moving in this week..¡±


    She seems surprised as I began to rant non-stop.


    ¡°You¡¯re probably in the wrong house my dear. My husband and I rented this apartment two months ago but we needed to put things in order before moving in. We informed thendlord about it. We just moved inst week. Which agent are you talking about¡­¡±?


    I know he mentioned one difficult long name, very hard to pronounce and I didn¡¯t bother taking it seriously because what do I need his name for, so I thought until now.


    I refused to believe what was staring at me in the face.


    She went back inside and came out again with a receipt which she hand over to me.


    The house was even a hundred thousand and the agent, agreement and damages was eighty thousand.


    Is not even up-to two hundred thousand.


    She said since the area is just developing that houses here are not expensive and that¡¯s why she and her husband grabbed the opportunity.


    They used the remaining money to do their interior and equipped the house with their other properties.


    All this tale is none of my business, I just wanted my money back.


    since the house wasn¡¯t up to two hundred thousand, why did my own agent collect three hundred thousand from me?


    The man that rented it out to me said the house is one hundred and fifty thousand and the agent and agreement is also one hundred and fifty thousand making it three hundred.


    I paid three hundred thousand for a house that is just a hundred thousand.


    Is not even up-to two hundred thousand.


    No problem madam, all I need now is my money.


    If the house is taken then I need my money back.


    Since the agent has given my apartment to another, a couple. The pregnant woman looks like she nned to born all her children in that house. Is obvious that¡¯s her first pregnancy and she will give birth to more children in that apartment¡­ my supposed apartment.


    Well, they should give me back my money then.


    I kept ranting as I refused toe in term with whatever she was saying.


    She quickly called the right agent in connection to the house.


    I waited for thirty minutes before the man in histe fifty¡¯s came.


    A different man and obviously not the same agent that rented the house to me.


    He exined exact same thing that the woman already said and asked me to show him my receipt.


    I told him no receipt was given to me.


    I told him that the agent said my receipt and house key will be brought to me anytime I¡¯m ready to move in.


    The elderly man began tough sarcastically. He asked me of my age and I told him that I was twenty years.


    He asked me if I was a child, how can I make such expensive mistake and not insist for a receipt or even collect the house key after payment because that is the only way I will know if the agent is real or fake because there are a lot of fake agent collecting money from people snd showing them a rented house or vacant apartment that they don¡¯t have ess to.


    He told me that I have been scammed and I should ept it that way.


    My money is gone and he can¡¯t help me because he doesn¡¯t even know anything about my transaction.


    I showed him the person¡¯s number and he called but the butcher picked again and shouted that is a wrong number.


    He warned that nobody should call him again, he knows nothing of whatever we were talking about.


    And that was how reality hit me hard that I have been scammed.


    Wait, how can this even happen.


    Was I really scammed?


    Oh yeah, my three hundred thousand is gone.


    Gone like the wind.


    How did this kind of thing even happen.


    Why didn¡¯t I ask and insist on a receipt. Even collect my house key after payment.


    Is this how my money will go?


    How did I make this kind of mistake.


    What of the ns I have to take Phil¡¯s attention and mind from visiting Louise.


    How can they scam me that have never scammed anybody in my life before.

 Episode 27

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    Is being three weeks, and five days ever since the scam incident. I have not fully recover from it and it makes me very unhappy.


    I never expected in my wildest dreams that I will be scammed. I understand now that is a waste of time trying to get back already spilled milk.


    I¡¯m done sucking and is time to really move on.


    Phil asked mest weekend if Louise was back so that he cane over, I told him that he was not.


    He wanted to Come around and spend some time but patiently waiting for Louise to return.


    He asked me again few days ago and because I have told him ¡°no¡± long enough, I decided to let him know that Louise will be back the next weekend.


    Atleast I have had enough time to think on my next line of action.


    The right agent said anytime I want to rent another apartment that I should let him know.


    If Louise will be back next weekend means that Phil will want toe over and spend sometime.


    I¡¯m thinking of a way to convince him that I now have my own ce so that Phil wille to mine instead.


    I picked up my phone and called the agent that afternoon while at work, I informed him that I was ready.


    He asked me to meet him over the weekend so that he can show me houses.


    Back at home, let me call it just a house because it doesn¡¯t feel like a home to me anymore.


    Louise was taunting me, he was threatening nonstop, he was harassing and insulting me continuesly.


    I¡¯m afraid most nights, we fought three straight nights when he try to force his way on me.


    He had his way in one of those recent nights of struggle, with a serious force and several hitting, I sustained bruises and more insults even while he was at it.


    I dust off and acted like nothing happened the following day, even while at work I was ready to lie and tell anyone that ask that I fell down and sustain bruises.


    Louise did not stop there, he was still asking me why he haven¡¯t gotten my sry alert for two months and why he can¡¯t reach Phil.


    Who took off Phil¡¯s mobile number from his phone, he was threatening and asking but got no reply because I wasn¡¯t ready to spill.


    I make sure I never reply, I totally ignored him and acted like I suddenly gone deaf like he used to ask me sometimes.


    I have developed a very thick skin, I know not fully because once in a while I still break down and cry but is only when I have had enough of life troubles.


    Especially during those times I was scammed off my three hundred thousand and the sadness of living with Louise, the troubles I have to go home to meet daily.


    Which was more reason I want to speed up my moving out before my cover blows off.


    After the house scam incident, I¡¯m beginning to have trust issue.


    Life does not work the way it works inside my head, reality has hit me severally, so is high time to face it full.


    I got my sry for the second month in my new work ce and also add it with the money Phil willingly gave me whenever we hang out.


    No matter how busy his schedule was, he still try to create time for me.


    He nned to take me to his family house soon, I will get to meet his family.


    I was seriously looking forward to that and also nning in my head the outfit I will put on during then.


    I have almost  five hundred thousand when I calcted all the money I had on me.


    After paying for the house, I will start working towards getting an admission to studyw.


    I have think it through, I want to be awyer and I know if I seriously work towards it, I will achieve it.


    The following weekend, I went to see the agent. I lied to Louise that I was going for work when he asked. Mypany asked us toe to work.


    He said I was probably going to see Philip, I assured him that Philip travelled and not yet back.


    I met the agent and he first of all showed me another apartment in the samepound that I was scammed, he said there was another empty room and parlour with kitchen and toilet but is far more expensive than the first one.


    He showed it to me briefly and I like what I saw.


    He took me to two other houses but I told him that I prefer the first one.


    We went back there, the pregnant woman and her husband saw me.


    She waved at me and I returned the greetings.


    the inside of the apartment was wide and neat. It even has a store and a veranda. The room is big, sitting room big, It has two toilet and bathroom, the kitchen is also big.


    I like it and asked him the amount, he told me everything will be three hundred seventy thousand.


    The agent said the rent is two hundred thousand per annum.


    But every other thing which includes agent, agreement, damages, light and waste management bill for the first six months is included in the three hundred and seventy thousand.


    I told him there was no problem, he was looking at me when I begin to ask for ount number.


    Baba gave me and I quickly made transfer to him.


    Baba said it seems like I¡¯m one of the rich big girl in town. I really don¡¯t know what he meant by that statement.


    He probably thinks I make my money from sleeping with men due to the funny way he looks at me after getting alert.


    About four weeks ago, I was scammed off three hundred thousand and here I am making another transfer for another house, the agent must have thought I don¡¯t really stress to make my money.


    I told him that I actually work in a big ce and I¡¯m not whatever he was thinking and even if I am is none of his business.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    His business was to collect the money, issue me a receipt and hand my house keys over to me.


    The man smile with a nod and asked me to follow him, he had a single office and it was not too far from the house.


    He wrote a receipt for me, and also gave me my apartment key.


    I finished early with the agent, I decided to go to the market to check prices for bed, kitchen utensils, chairs and so many other things.


    I even made payment for few items, collected receipt and said I will go the following weekend to carry them and also buy more stuffs.


    Having gotten a ce, I started looking for a way to present it to Phil because he may want to know why I moved out, why I don¡¯t want to stay with Louise my supposed cousin brother.


    Different lies kept forming in my head, I was waiting for a perfect moment to execute it.


    I was happy that I can afford my own ce as i began to move out my things little by little to my new apartment.


    It will really shock Louise and by the time he finds out it will be toote because I will be far gone.

 Episode 28

    Louise haven¡¯t stopped threatening to deal with me if he does not receive my sry alert soon.


    He also threatened to go in search of Philip too so that he can expose me.


    He suspected that I was up to something but he couldn¡¯t figure out exactly what I was really up-to.


    And I like the fact that he can only guess and will continue to guess.


    After texting Phil that I will like to see him, he asked me to wait after work which I did.


    I waited for about thirty minutes after close of work before I saw himing.


    I hardly see him after work, he stays back in the office untillte evening working but that very day, because of me he decided to close earlier than usual


    He asked me if I was okay, I told him that I was knocked down yesterday by a moving car.


    He screamed in shocked and began to check my body if I was okay.


    I told I was fine, the car wasn¡¯t speeding if not it could have been worst.


    There was no time again to waste, I don¡¯t want further dy in executing my n.


    with a sad face and a little touch of makeup wound on my cheek because the real bruises I sustained in Louise hand has healed up I have toe up with a fake one.


    I started narrating my ordeals to Phil. Is not all true but that does not dispute the fact that I was really going through a lot in the hands of Louise.


    I lied and told Phil that it was because of Louise. ¡°since he will being back from his journey soon, he sent me to buy some gifts from one female designer shop were his girlfriend usually shop, he needed me to go there after close of work yesterday to go buy somethings for one of his numerous women and keep it in the house so that when he returns back and thedyes visiting he will present the gift to her, pretending like he got it at wherever he traveled to¡­ It was on my way back that I was hit by the car¡­¡±


    I watched the sad expression on Philip¡¯s face, I didn¡¯t stop there, I continued with the sad tale.


    I told Phil that Louise sent me on an errand one day to go and deliver a package to his girlfriend who lives far away.  ¡°¡­ that was before Louise traveled and I almost had an ident too but thank God for saving me that day..¡±


    Philip was not happy that I have to go on such errand, he wondered why Louise didn¡¯t send the item through dispatchers.


    I told Philip that is Louise¡¯s way and I¡¯m already used to It. he will send me to his numerous girlfriends evente at night, and when any of his babeses over, Louise forbids me from entering the room.


    Sometimes I have to leave the house because of them.


    One day, I was almost molested by some guys in the night due to the same thing.


    They tore my clothes but I managed to escap.


    Philip screamed and asked me why I kept quiet this whole time. He said I should have speak up and let him know.


    He asked me if I wanted to get my own apartment,  I replied him that I was already working towards that.


    This was a great opportunity that I have been looking for, It finally came unexpected. I have actually being looking for a way to nail Louise, a way to let Phil know that living with Louise was dangerous for me.


    I was happy because I nailed it and make Phil believe everything I said.


    Phil said I should speak to my parents about it before making any n to move, that no matter what, Louise was still my family.


    I told him that my parents are already aware of It and they can¡¯t wait for me to get out of Louise house before he indirectly hurt me.


    Phil agrees to everything, he asked me to let him know whenever I want to move so that he can get me a better ce of my own.


    He gave me some money after we shared a long kiss. while at it I remembered that I was supposed to be having body ach or slight pain because of the fake ident, I quickly winced in fake pain.


    He stopped, apologise and promised toe over and see Louise whenever hees back and tell him to stop sending me on a dangerous errands just to please his women.


    I told him it wasn¡¯t necessary but he insisted and I decided toy low.


    He also wanted to take me to my ce that day but I asked him to stop me in the market, I wanted to buy some food items. I asked him to go but he refused.


    Phil said he was going to wait and take me to my house. I couldn¡¯t talk him out of It.


    I picked few things in the market, things I didn¡¯t n to buy before.


    All this while I always give him one excuse or the other on why he shouldn¡¯t take me home but I couldn¡¯te up with anything reasonable.


    The market could have helped out but he insisted on waiting.


    When we got close to the house, I was looking around for Louise as I quickly stepped down from the car immediately Phil parked.


    He was even trying to say something else but I was already out. I waved at him and rushed into the gate.


    When I got in,  I was happy that everything was going as nned.


    Louise was not even home yet.


    Just then, I heard the sound of the door, I know it was Louise because we both have our own house key. I rushed into the bathroom


    I counted the money Phil gave me in the  bathroom and it was eleven thousand.


    Phil also promised to transfer money to me and will also help out in searching for a suitable apartment for me to move into.


    Is high time I leave Louise and stay on my own, that¡¯s what Phil said and I totally agree. Unknown to him that I have already gotten a ce of my own.


    I wish have waited a little and speak to Phil about Louise first, he could have gotten me a furnished apartment. I wouldn¡¯t have to spend all my money for the second time getting another ce after the first one went as wind.


    I will get to summon courage and tell Phil the real truth about Louise I once into my own apartment.


    I suddenly remembered that the food items I stopped in the market to buy, I forgot it in Phil¡¯s car.


    It must be when I was rushing to avoid Louise seeing us.


    Philip may not even notice it until tomorrow and I will ask him for it and throw it away because perishable things are there and will spoil since in is not in the fridge or cooked.


    When I stepped out of the bathroom, Louise was in the sitting room.


    ¡°I saw somebody that looks like Phil and even  his car? He drove past me and didn¡¯t even notice me walking down. He came to drop you right¡­ I thought you said he traveled?


    ¡°He traveled but he¡¯s back. He came back this morning..¡± I lied.


    ¡°Really..¡± Louise said while looking at me angrily.


    ¡°¡­ Well, I¡¯m d he is back, so now I can either get my own car and money too or throw you overboard like a spoilt garbage. You don¡¯t have any excuse again April.. I need Phil¡¯s contact and I mean now..¡±


    ¡°I still don¡¯t have his mobile number, I will get it tomorrow..¡±


    ¡°Is a lie, a big fat lie.. let me see your phone. Give me any phone you¡¯re using and I don¡¯t care if you want to lie that it belongs to your friend or to your boss¡­¡±


    I refused, he bounced on me and collected my hand bag.


    I  know that I saved Phil¡¯s number with another name but our recent interaction and even today¡¯s text message to Phil is all there in the phone.


    Louise will see it and knew that I have been lying all this while.


    As he grabbed my handbag, he poured everything in it to the ground and my money fell off.


    Louise collected the money before taking the phone.


    He started scrolling.


    I won¡¯t let him do that, I rushed and began to struggle with him to collect the phone.


    He pped me, I spat on his face while still holding onto the phone with both hands.


    He kicked me hard and I fell far off, I screamed and stood up again.


    I grabbed something, I didn¡¯t bother to know what it was.


    I ran with so much anger and hate in my heart and hit him right on the head before he could dodge the weapon. It was after hitting him that I realized it was an empty wine bottle.


    He screamed, abandoned everything in his hand and came for me.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Just as he was about to throw this heavy punch on my face, there came a sudden knock on the door.


    I¡¯m sure that with the force Louise wasing at me, he could have disfigured me that night but I¡¯m still thanking God for whoever was knocking on the door that night.


    By tomorrow morning, I¡¯m definitely moving out of Louise house into my own apartment.


    I will pick my remaining things and disappear. I may not even sleep in this house tonight.


    Louise will destroy me without thinking twice.


    Louise was still holding onto the phone  with one hand and his head with another, right at the spot I hit him as he went to answer whoever was at the door.


    I quickly began to put back things into my handbag.


    But who could be knocking by this time?


    Did Louise invited one of his numerous women over?


    What if it was Phil?


    My heart skipped the moment I thought of Phil.


    I pray and hope is not Phil or my end wille quicker than expected.

 Episode 29

    I was too anxious as I watched Louise open the door, he startled seeing the person at the door.


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± he said to Louise with a surprised tone, I heard his voice clearly and my heart skipped many times.


    I wanted to crawl into a hole or plead to the ground to swallow me.


    It was Philip, I knew I was literally dead.


    He stepped into the house with the items I forgot in his car. He actually returned the forgotten bag to me


    As he stepped in, I was transfixed on the ground and couldn¡¯t get up which made him not to notice me immediately. Thank God for the dim light close to me.


    ¡°¡­ when do you return back.. and how was yourmute? I believe the journey went well? Is really being a while Louise..?


    ¡°Same here Philip, I never traveled rather I should be asking you how was your journey and when did you return because I was told you traveled for a long time now¡­ wait, you didn¡¯t actually traveled right?


    He nodded in confusion.


    I slowly crawled behind a chair ready to run to the room, pick my things and escape because I know for sure my cover was blown.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Philip was looking around as he looked at Louise and at the spot I hit him which was all swollen now.


    ¡°What is going on..? He ask more absent minded, he asked again this time around more serious than the first.


    ¡­ where¡¯s April? He was searching with his eyes as he scan through the house.


    ¡°So all this while that stupid girl has being lying to two of us. That lying witch, that good for nothing¡­¡±


    Louise looks very angry at this time as he scratched his head gently. Philip hushed him to stop calling me names as he repeatedly asked Louise what was going on.


    Philip called out to me twice but I didn¡¯t reply.


    Louise joined him in shouting my name.


    I quietly crept out from behind the chair.


    ¡°Are you okay April¡­ what happened here? I just dropped you few minutes ago and you told me that Louise was out of the state for sometime¡­?


    He looked at me closely again ¡°¡­ what happened to you, are you alright April..?


    He looked back at Louise ¡°what happened, you engaged her in a fight? What¡­ why? What brought about such? Hope she¡¯s not injured? What could be the problem? Is It because she forgot the food items? Whatever it is Louise, you shouldn¡¯t have touched her, for Christ sake she is your sister,  I believe you¡¯re the only family she got here and you should be protecting her not hurting her no matter what¡­¡±


    He paused and took few steps closer to me and then pause as Louise began tough


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind this pretender, a big time liar. She is a good actor Phil. You don¡¯t really know much about the girl you¡¯re dating. Don¡¯t fright over her she is very fine and we¡¯re not rted in anyway¡±


    Louise said as he sat hard on a chair closest to him. Philip turned and stare at him, not sure of what he just heard.


    If Louise start spilling things to Philip, I won¡¯t be able to stand and watch him humiliate me.


    I will quietly walk into the room, pick up my bag and run away from this two.


    Is obviously the end came quicker than expected.


    ¡°What do you mean by you two aren¡¯t rted¡­? Phil turned to Louise and asked.


    Louise looked at me and said with a smirking smile in his face ¡± April, do you mind telling your lover boy the truth, atleast this time around say the whole truth for once in your miserable life or do you mind if I take the lead and tell him everything..?¡±


    Phil looked from Louise to me, I avoided looking at him by all means.


    Whatever was in his eyes, be it disappointment or hate I really don¡¯t want to see it


    I wasn¡¯t going to back down without a self defense atleast


    Louise will rub me in the mud no matter what, Phil will still trash me at the end so is better I say something in my own defense.


    ¡°Yes, I will dly do so Louise, atleast this will end your greedy ckmailing request..¡±


    He stared at me maliciously but I no longer give a damn about anyone.


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m sorry Phil that you have to find out this way, I really tried to tell you but I was too scared¡­ too frightened. I was seriously afraid that you will leave and hate me. I didn¡¯t want to loose you¡­ atleast not yet, but I guess the truth will definitely find its way out one day and the dreaded day is here¡­¡±


    I breathed in, Phil was still standing watching me without a word.


    ¡°¡­ Louise isn¡¯t a rtive, he is not my cousin and in truth we¡¯re not in any way rted. He deceived me and make me leave home, I left my family to follow him. I was only young and naive and didn¡¯t understand what he was trying to do untilter, when I found myself in this ce. not having a choice I decided to work and make something good out of my life and also to go back to school and studyw but Louise again deceived me by collecting my sry every month all in the name of saving it for my future.


    Few months ago he revealed to me that I have no money with him because he has used it for his personal needs and will continue to use it because I¡¯m living in his house and my sry is one of his rewards. He was also trying to ckmail me in asking you to buy your kind of car for him and also give him more money fo¡­¡±


    Louise stood up and interrupted with a loud p.


    He suddenly began to p while smiling


    ¡°April, do you need a sash, a crown or award for being the biggest liar in this whole wide world? Wow¡­ you¡¯re really good with this lying thing, infact you¡¯re the queen of lies. You said I deceived you and took you from your home? Really? You that your family hated, they despised and condemned you. Nobody wants you around because you¡¯re not only badly behaved, you¡¯re self centered, wanting everyone to worship you and when you didn¡¯t get what you wanted you became a thorn in their flesh. You hate your parents, your brother and even your kid sister whom you wished death and you said you wish she was never born. Is it truth or not? Because everything I¡¯m saying now is purely truth. You even stole your brothers money and nobody knows what you did with it. You insisted that you wanted to work and make money for yourself just after highschool, instead of going to a higher instruction like your parents wanted, you were making money but refused helping out with anything and even giving a dime to your sister who you hated so much. When they couldn¡¯t take any more of your rubbish, they try to punish you by putting you on a house arrest but you escaped, you ran away from the house and got lost. Thank your star that i found you in the cold, lonely and dangerous street. I even try taking you back to your family but you refused. You pleaded to go to the big city with me and make me promise never to go to your parents to report because they will never look for you which happens to be true. They never looked for you, it was good radiance to pieces of rubbish like you. They have been looking for a way to get rid of you and you made it very easy for them by running away. I picked you up from the gutter, I gave you everything you wanted and even a job. I agreed to help you save your money because from history you¡¯re very careless and excessive spender. But I lost my job and the rent was due, it was never supposed to be a problem because you knew even before you got the job I was taking care of bills, took you several shopping, allowed you date any man that pick interest in you. I don¡¯t mind sharing you with anybody, all I wanted is for you to be happy. I even marked your birthday with many presents but as usual, your stingy and self-centeredness came to y again. Just like you have been doing with Phil, I guess you even lie to collect money from him because that¡¯s the only thing you know how to do best and you must have told several lies about me or he has given you something to deliver to me but you im it all. I know everything about you like the palm of my hands. You¡¯re a crook, a liar and a cheap prostitute¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough said already¡­ I have heard enough please. All of this can¡¯t actually be true? I don¡¯t believe it¡­ you¡¯re making everything up and I don¡¯t believe anything you just vomited out of your mouth. If any of what you said is true then you should be arrested for kidnapping, you shouldn¡¯t have eloped with a teenager, you supposed to have taken her back to her family¡±


    Phil said to Louise after shutting him up.


    Louise tries to defend himself but Phil paid no attention to him.


    His focus was on me now..


    He turned to me and said quietly


    ¡°Is any of those things Louise just said true..?


    I remained silent as I gasped shakily.

 Episode 30

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    It does not matter anymore, Louise twisted everything, he was supposed to be the one given an award for lying. He is very maniptive .


    Phil didn¡¯t believe me in my first exnation before Louise started speaking, he won¡¯t believe me now no matter what I say.


    Nothing I say will ever matter. I know that I was supposed to tell him the truth when Louise was trying to ckmail me, I really wanted to be free from Louise ws. My mind was totally made up, Phil is a good guy and deserve to know the whole truth but I couldn¡¯t. I just couldn¡¯t bring myself to tell him. He was going to hate me and never want to have anything to do with me. I can¡¯t live with that, I can¡¯t loose him.


    Phil was the only human that truly cares about me in this big city. If anything happens, he¡¯s the only one I can run to, I couldn¡¯t jeopardize all of that.  well, I thought one day I will muster courage to tell him.


    I wanted to be free from Louise first, just in case Phil turn his back on me, I will have a home to go back to, a ce far from Louise. I wish I had told him, is toote to do anything.


    Atleast I have already rented a ce to go to once all of this is over. That¡¯s the only joy I have right now.


    ¡°¡­ you ran away from your family? Louise isn¡¯t your cousin but a.. a..¡±


    Phil paused, he couldn¡¯t wrap his head around whatever Louise was to me.


    I watched as he shakes his head sadly and continued.


    ¡°¡­ So everything you ever told me is all lies? About your Mom, yourself and everything that has to do with you and Louise¡­ They were all lies? I can¡¯t believe this. April? Why¡­ i.. you supposed to tell me the truth no matter how it hurt. I deserve to know. I exined to you how much I hates lies. I wanted you close and that was the reason I employed you in mypany. I thought I have actually found a woman for me . Woah¡­ in my wildest dreams I never expected any of this. I trusted you and that¡¯s why I didn¡¯t do any background research on you. oh my God, April? Hmm.. i can¡¯t do this¡­ this is way too much to take in one night. I¡¯m out of here¡­¡±


    He kicked off the bag containing the food items I got from the market which was on his way.


    He walked to the door and pause, I remained at the spot where I was.


    Maybe he is having a double mind, probably reconsidering.Exclusive ? content by N(?)ve/l/Drama.Org.


    This was my opportunity to apologise.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Phil, I¡¯m deeply sorry¡­ I never meant for you to find out that Louise wasn¡¯t actually my cousin. I was really scared of loosing you and that kept me bound. I wish I have summon enough courage ande to you with the truth. You¡¯ve been nothing but a blessing to me, I dreaded this moment and have live in fear ever since after meeting you and you picked interest in me. I¡¯m so sorry Phil, I hope you find a ce in your heart to forgive me some day¡­¡±


    He chuckled a little, gave a deep breath and said. ¡°Return every of thepany¡¯s properties in your possession by Monday. Hand it over to the HR for proper documentation. Wait in the reception until you¡¯re paid off before leaving. After then kindly keep a good distance from thepany and it¡¯s environ. If you try to trade close to my properties, I will get you arrested. This is the first and final warning. Goodbye Apr.. il¡±


    He took a final pitiful look at Louise before opening the door and walking out.


    It¡¯s well expected, I wasn¡¯t expecting an embrace or flowers after all.


    Louise began tough.


    ¡°At the end he dumped you in the trash. This girl, you¡¯re more deadlier than I imagined. So you were working in Phil¡¯s office, wow¡­ all this while and you kept mute. You were afraid that I will collect your pay again, I know the sry will be way higher than your former ce. What exactly are you doing with those money he has been paying you? I knew it, I just knew that you were up-to something. I should have thought deeper or followed it up. Your work clothes changed, all the office look and vibes you kept giving me, I thought it was just nothing, maybe you wanting to change your dress sense, I never knew that God has indeed prepared a big wide table before you. You kept it hidden and thought I won¡¯t find out, now you¡¯re back at my mercy. I will make you suffer for every crumbs that you get. If you don¡¯t bring the money or tell me what happened to it, April you will suffer. I don¡¯t care if you just startedst month or this month, I need the money and every dime. You can never escape from me. since I can no longer get anything from Phil, I will get it all from you. I don¡¯t care if you decide to start sleeping with different men for money, all I¡¯m certain is that if you must live in this house then the house responsibility falls on you otherwise, you will grind your teeth for every crumb of food you get. You try to shame me, forgetting that before you were born I have been existing. Is a good thing Philip dumped you because soon, once I get tired of your useless body, I will also kick you out, straight into the street. You will see how street life taste like, by then you wille to realize that am actually a nice guy but it will be toote when realization hits you¡­¡±


    Louise is talking nonsense. Saying that if he gets tired of me he throws me into the street? That¡¯sughable because I have had my fill of his bully and molestation and will be leaving by tomorrow.


    I don¡¯t have to beg for every crumbs because I will be in my ownfortable space from tomorrow.


    He underrated me alot, by the time it dawned on him I will be far gone.


    I hurt deeply, the pain is just too much but I will not cry in front of Louise.


    Loosing Philip is like important part of me disappeared with him.


    I hate myself right now, the look in his eyes was terrifying as he said those things at the door.


    He did not only dump me, he also kick me out of both his life and office.


    Phil sacked me and still willing to pay me the small days I have worked.


    I loosed an angel because of Louise, this is exactly what he wants and he is expecting me to break down and began to weep.


    But I will never give him something interesting to watch or taunt me with.


    I have lost everything again, I¡¯m starting my life on a clean te, this time around I will be doing it alone, far from Louise.

 Episode 31

    If I have to get out of the house without Louise suspecting me then I have toe up with a better idea.


    I will pretend to corporate with his orders and even dance to whatever music he tries to y. I will pretend to worship him like a small god and reply him back with a pretentious respect. Whenever he says something I will reply back with a ¡°yes sir¡±


    He will try to mock andugh at me for having no other choice but unknown to him that I¡¯m cooking something unknown.


    If you want to catch a thief, then why not act like one too.


    Louise will feel like I¡¯m at his mercy finally and won¡¯t suspect me for any reason.


    Philip leaving me is something I may never be able to get over. I hurt deeply but I only got myself and need to be strong.


    That night, I allowed Louise taunt me non stop.


    He even pushed me harshly as he was walking past me and I fell aside and stood up again.


    I cleaned up the sitting room because I really needed to engage my mind to avoid depression or breaking down.


    I swept and cleaned up the sitting room while Louise kept talking and insulting me.


    I did not reply him or react to anything he said. When he was tired of shading me he quietly went to bed, leaving me alone. I couldn¡¯t sleep that night.


    Iy in the sitting room thinking over my life, I cry quietly most part of the night


    A silent sob with tears that almost sucked up the pillow.


    The following morning was a Sunday, Louise continued from where he stopped. He kept mocking me but I was not bothered.


    I have grown a tick skin, nothing he says or do moves me anymore.


    He kept on insulting me and asking me about the money they paid me in my ce of work.


    I kept thinking of what to tell him. The lies formed perfectly in my head.


    As Louise continuesly asked about the money I made from Philip¡¯spany, I told him that I was duped and that was how my first sry went.


    He asked me to exin how I was duped. He didn¡¯t believe me and called me liar.


    I was very ready to tell him anything that will make him leave me alone.


    I quickly arranged the whole lies in perfect order and began with how I was hypnotized inside a taxi which i boarded the very days my sry was paid to me.


    I told him that the two guys with me collected everything i had on me before throwing me off the cab.


    And I was hoping maybe after collecting the present month sry I will open an ount, the ountant paid me cash because I don¡¯t have bank ount yet but they said they will open a sry ount which they were going to pay this month sry into but everything came crashing.


    I told Louise that I was nning to open an ount so that I can start saving for my school.


    Even Philip asked me to go and open a personal bank ount so that he can be transferring money to me, Phil said he does not always move around with cash.


    I wanted to do all of that this week before tonight trouble came to y.


    I told Louise while adding little sad drama to the whole fake stories


    Louise said I maybe lying but is a good thing that I was scammed because I try to outsmart him but look at where it got me.


    He asked me if the two men that hypnotized and took my belongings touched me after collecting my money.


    I told told him that I can¡¯t really remember anything except that I just found myself by the bush side, fluid was running down my thighs and I was too weak to walk.


    Louise screamed and said hope I haven¡¯t given him any disease because is quiet obvious I might have gotten infected after the men had their way with me.


    I replied back that I don¡¯t know but I was feeling difort and discharge with odour after then. Two days after the incident he also came as he forcefully had me to his satisfaction so he should go to the hospital for check-up


    I told him Iter bought some drugs to treat myself after the incident but is not a hundred percent guarantee.


    Louise almost went nut as he screamed. I was silentlyughing because it was all working perfectly out.


    He said first thing tomorrow morning he will go to hospital and run a test and if he finds out that I infected him in anyway, he will skin me alive.


    He said nned to transfer the diseases to him that¡¯s why I kept mute all through the time.


    He said that he used condom in the first round and could have continued using it but he had none left and needed to restock.


    If he had known he wouldn¡¯t have even touched me at all.


    Louise told me that first thing tomorrow, which is Monday I should go and collect my money from Philip and bring it to him so that he can use it and treat himself from whatever disease he contacted from me.


    I replied ¡°yes sir¡± with respectful tone.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    He suddenly began tough. ¡°Really, you¡¯re replying me with ¡°sir¡± life humbled you baby girl, now you¡¯re left with no choice. Philip left you, you¡¯re broke and no help at all. I¡¯m your only help right now April, I¡¯m your savior which you just realized and decided to step up your respecting game but hey, I hate to break it to you my dear, none of those your tactics is working on me. Go bring the money from Philip tomorrow, when I return from the hospital I can then decide if you¡¯re going to stay or not. But the money should be big enough, beg him to add more since he has broken up with you. The amount and my hospital feedback will determine my next line of action towards you¡­¡±


    I replied again with a nod ¡°yes sir, thank you very much sir..¡±


    He looked at me like a weirdo before walking away.


    I smiled inwardly as I waited for tomorrow toe.

 Episode 32

    In the night, I decided to step up my act by trying to forcefully engage him into kissing and smooching.


    I hated every bit of this part of acting but I was certain he wasn¡¯t going to fall for it.


    And just as I thought, he pushed me so hard that I fell off.


    ¡°What are you trying to do wicked Jezebel? After you got infected you want toe and finish me off. I haven¡¯t run test yet to know my state of health but I¡¯m already feeling feverish inside. You have never given me yourself willingly before, now that Philip is out of the picture and you maybe carrying diseases that¡¯s when you decided to do this. You think I¡¯m a fool to fall for this nonsense act? Let me go to the hospital tomorrow and they dictate anything bad, you will regret ever knowing me. Just be praying hard that nothing should be wrong with me and even if at the end I¡¯m totally fine I won¡¯t still touch you. You¡¯re useless to me from now onwards. So if you have to continue living here, then you must find other means and start making money, not just any type of money but huge amount. That¡¯s just it and is simple and short..¡±


    He barked like a dog and I stood apologising like the good girl that I was all of a sudden.


    He mentioned that he was already having fever, that¡¯s so funny and I feel so proud of myself.


    The next day, he was up early and began to prepare to go out.


    I crawled into myself in the sitting room where I usually pass the night.


    He came and shouted my name so loud but I pretend not to hear until he pped my shoulder hard.


    I sat up pretending like I was in shock and was waking up from deep sleep.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    I yawnedzily while struggling to adjust to the early waking.


    ¡°I won¡¯t have you sleeping in my house by this time of the day. People are already in the office but here you are still sleeping. After collecting the money from Philip today, make sure you check around for job vacancies before returning here. I can¡¯t be feeding a grown woman like you, we¡¯re neither rted or even in a healthy rtionship so you have to take care of your own bills. I¡¯m heading to the hospital, from there I will go to work. I will report to the office sick so that I can return home on time and wait for you to bring the money. Keep the money you collect from Philip, don¡¯t use it and buy anything, just keep it for me untill I return. My hospital test results will determine further, just be praying that nothing should be wrong with me because I couldn¡¯t sleepst night, the fever and body itching seems to be getting worst. So pray very hard otherwise you won¡¯t like what I¡¯m going to do.


    Immediately Louise stormed out of the house, I quickly began to arrange all my things in bags which I can easily move at once.


    I made breakfast and ate, I left the ce unkempt and did not wash the tes.


    I thought of turning the whole house upside down even the bathroom and toilet too but I waved it off.


    I really wanted to do something that will hurt Louise, something that when hees back and see he will scream and by then I will be gone.


    I left only the kitchen untidy,  I didn¡¯t bother to wash or tidy it up.


    I decided to save my energy for some other useful things.


    Turning the house upside down is a whole lot of work which I wouldn¡¯t have minded but again I just wanted to get out of this house and disappear.


    I took my bath, dressed up and walked out to look for a cab.


    I wanted to leave without anyone in the street staring at me with my plenty luggage.


    I didn¡¯t want to look suspicious.


    My n was after I move my things to my new apartment, I will go over to Phil¡¯spany to collect the money.


    If I can see him I will plead with all I got but I still need to be careful before he carry out the threats and get me arrested.


    If such should happen I don¡¯t have anyone that wille and bail me out so is better I trade carefully.


    After getting a cab, I went inside to picked my things. I wish to empty Louise house and take everything he owes but it won¡¯t still give me peace or rece the lost years.


    I didn¡¯t fail to pick everything I owe. Including every utensils that I bought with my money, home appliances and other small properties I own in the house, I picked everything that was solely mine.


    I did not touch any of Louise things. I could have but I decided not to.


    The urge to carry the television and the fridge was really high. It would have been apensation for my money but I decided not to.


    If I want to picked almost every items in this house, including the cooker, utensils, chairs, bed, dining, home theater, curtains and every thing including the rockcarpet it won¡¯t still be enough for the pain, the trouble, the tears and offcourse my money Louise took from me with lies


    This house hold a whole lot of hurts, bad memories and sadness but I¡¯m going to be finally free from all of it.


    I will start breathing fresh air, sleeping in my own bed, my own house from tomorrow, I¡¯m moving forward


    That I can¡¯t wait.


    After picking up my bags filled with my things, I gave the house another round look before carrying my luggages one after the other into the waiting cab.


    I try to be certain that I didn¡¯t leave any pin belonging to me in the house for Louise.


    I needed all my stuffs especially now I no longer have Job or enough money to stuck up my new ce.


    Everything I picked will be very useful to me.


    I made sure not to touch any of his things but I picked every of mine.


    I entered the cab and the patient diver drove off. We were about to get to the end of Louise street when  I saw Louiseing back.


    I didn¡¯t see him on time as he entered the street and stared straight at the cab I boarded.

 Episode 33

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    Immediately I saw him he was staring straight at the passenger side of the cab.


    I was wearing a ck sun shade which I thought of taking off and hiding under the chair.


    But on a second thought I just remained seated and watch as he struggles to see who was in the cab.


    Yes, I must have looked very familiar to him because I was putting on one of my blue t-shirt that he has seen on me before


    What maybe confusing for him will be the shade, the ck eye ss does alot of good for me and it covers the ck swollen line around my eyes which is a clear evidence that I need a good rest.


    If I can get enough sleep then it will all be gone in no time.


    I sat there and stare back at him through my sses.


    He was actually looking at me as he tried to mark the face, is obvious I look familiar to him and he was trying to ce the recognition.


    No more running or hiding from Louise, he was a big siege and I have already ovee it.


    As the cab drove past him, he stopped and kept staring.


    He must have recognized my top but I wasn¡¯t bothered.


    Rather I did an unexpected thing, I wish I can spat on his face and kick his balls. That was exactly how I feel, I was boiling inside seeing the man that caused so much trouble to me.


    As the cab was a little far from him and he was about turning to continue on his way home, I pulled out my middle finger from the window, raised it high so that he can see it.


    I don¡¯t want anything that will make him miss the finger.


    I really wanted him to see it, I wish there was a stone nearby inside the cab I could have used it to stone him but what if I miss him and the stonends on another person.


    Pulling out my middle finger at him was the little salvage I can used to shed him.


    That was the time he probably knew that I must be the one.


    He began to run after the cab but we were really far this time and out of the street gate.


    He was calling another cab but unfortunately it drove pass him without stopping.


    As he was trying to call another we entered the express road and speed off.. all through the time I did not stop with the middle finger thing.


    I kept doing it until he couldn¡¯t see me anymore.


    He was looking for a cab which he will use to follow us.


    He wanted to know what was going on and where I was going with a cab.


    Yes, I dressed like I was traveling and that must have confused his cheap state of mind.


    I looked back along the road to know if he was actually following us but I didn¡¯t see him.


    I looked back severally and didn¡¯t see any sign of him or any cab or a motorbike following.


    The cab man speed off immediately we entered the express road.


    Louise is no more to be seen again.


    I don¡¯t know if heter got a cab to follow us but he may never be able to catch-up.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    There are several cab with the same colour as mine on the road, he may not even know which exactly am in except if there is something he used as mark.


    I really wanted to shout out insults to him, I wish to curse him and also the day I met him but again he won¡¯t be able to hear me and is a waste of my strength.


    I checked the time it was past mid day. If I should reach my ce first I won¡¯t be able to go to Phil¡¯s office for the money because I really need the money right now.


    I don¡¯t know how much it is but no matter the amount is still very important.


    I asked the cab man to take me to the office first  he agreed but on a second look, i needed to change into something more official.


    I know I¡¯m not part of their staff anymore and no one will care about my dressing or question me over my appearance but I still want to look good, I want to atleast dress like an office person one more time.


    My next job may not be an office job, I may go back searching for job in supermarket, hotel or restaurants. I will search until I get a better offer that will enable me pay my rent whenever is due and fend for myself too.


    I asked the cab man to take me to my house first so that I can dress in something appropriate.


    He drove me straight to my rented apartment and I quickly began to take my things out of the car.


    The cabbie also assisted me carrying my things out and in no time we were done.


    He asked me to pay him that he can¡¯t wait for me to finish everything that I was about to do. Maybe I should look for another cab that will drive me to the second ce I intend to go.


    I paid him and the cabbie left immediately.


    I began to pack my things inside. My apartment was so empty and quiet. My voice echoes when I say something.


    I need to quickly get dressed so that I can get to the office before they close.


    Is really going to be very lonely in here but just a little time I will get used to it.


    Is better lonely than staying in the devil¡¯s den. Louise apartment was the devil¡¯s den and I¡¯m finally over it.


    A knock on the door startled me. Who could be knocking on my door, Louise?


    Did he followed me to my apartment, God forbids it!


    Oh my God, he probably traced me down with either a hired motorbike.


    Louise is a devil and ready to do anything to hunt me.


    He thinks I¡¯m his prey and will remain in his mercy  forever but he lied because I¡¯m free from his ws and he can¡¯t hold me down anymore.


    If Louise followed me here, it means I have to do something fast because I won¡¯t feel safe in my house anymore.


    I quietly asked who was knocking but got no reply.


    That must be Louise because he¡¯s a bully and will not reply untill I open the door.


    I was trying to control my heart beat as I walked down to open the door.

 Episode 34

    I walked to the door with my heart in my hand, it was racing with speed as I held the door knob.


    I decided to ask again with a  very loud voice ¡°who is knocking on my door?


    ¡°Is me o, your neighbor..¡± the female voice replied.


    I breathed in relief, my heart was almost pumping out of my chest.


    I opened the door and stared straight at the woman, she was grinning from ear to ear while holding something in her hand.


    Her protruding belle has grown an inch longer from thest time I saw her.


    She is beautiful but the pregnancy was hiding all the beauty and making her look way bigger


    ¡°I can see you have finally moved in, I havee to wee you with a little something. Is actually a delicious banana biscuit. Is not home made, my hubby usually bring it for me. He is a manager in one big supermarket. Sugary biscuits is part of my cravings, this is thest one remaining ones. Since I don¡¯t want toe with empty hand I decided to bring this. In some countries, is wrong to go wee a new neighbor with nothing¡­¡±


    I smile, thanked her foring to wee me.


    Truly, her kind gesture melt my heart at that instant.


    I felt at peace knowing that I have a good neighbor.


    ¡°, I¡¯m not really into snacks like banana biscuit but I deeply appreciate this..¡±


    I said as I stretch hand to collect the biscuits.


    Instead of giving it to me, she held it back.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want you to go and trash it or abandon it somewhere and forget. Since the biscuits is not your thing let me take it back then because is my kind of thing and I have to satisfy my cravings while waiting for my hubby to buy another. do you like peanuts, chin Chin or cakes? I¡¯m a baker but I haven¡¯t baked anything for a long time, ever since I became pregnant. I want to be stressed free and concentrate on the baby but I can make small chops, egg roll, chinchin and smoothie. Let me know which you will rather prefer..¡±


    ¡°I appreciate ma¡¯am but I¡¯m fine. I wouldn¡¯t want you to stress yourself because of me¡­¡± I replied.


    ¡°Alright, but don¡¯t fail to ask if you need anything. Let me allow you finish with unpacking and settling down. You will love it here, is a Cool ce to be. By the way my name is Cecilia.. you can just call me Ceci..¡±


    I nodded with a smile before walking back inside.


    I quickly rounded up with some packing as I n to do the remaining one another day


    I took a quick shower and got dress but as I was dressing up, I realized some of the office clothes were very rough, I need to iron it.


    Time was running, I can¡¯t make it today again. Is very obvious that I won¡¯t be able to go to the office.


    Before I will get there they might have closed for the day.


    I made up my mind that it was the next day I will go as I silently pray that they won¡¯t have anything negative to say because I really need the money.


    I called the furniture guys to send my bed and chairs by weekend and they agreed to do so.


    I was happy that I paid them almost everything, the remaining money isn¡¯t much again.


    I still have money in my ount, I will use it for food stuff and care for myself untill I finally gets a Job.


    After arranging my things, I will go and meet Ceci to ask if I can get an iron, so that I can straighten my office wears.


    She said I should ask her if I need anything, I hope my asking won¡¯t cause problem.


    I took my time to put my things in other. I walked round the room, parlour, kitchen, bathroom and the toilet.


    I can¡¯t believe the apartment was mine. It was all mine.


    I was really free from Louise ws, I wonder what he will do after walking in and realized that I have taken everything that belongs to me.


    It will be like a film trick, he never expected it neither did he see iting.


    I¡¯m free and with this freedom that I have really craved with passion, I still felt sad within.


    I was really not free from my guilt and conscience.


    Loosing a good man like Pete in my life, is like loosing almost everything that matters most to me.


    I pray he will someday forgive me. It maybe hard but that¡¯s my only prayer right now.


    I was too tired by the time I was done.


    I needed food but is alreadyte.


    I don¡¯t know my new area yet, I will take my time to walk around by weekend but for now I will just stay indoor.


    I regretted not taking the biscuit that Ceci was offering.


    It could served as dinner snacks because I have nothing in the house.


    Since there was no bed yet, the furniture man will bring everything by weekend I have to put some of my clothes down.


    I made bed and pillow with them.


    Few minutes after lying down I slept off, I woke up around 2am.


    I was really cold, I stood up from the cold tile ground added more cloths to the ones down, I used some thick ones to wrap myself before sleeping back again.


    Strange, terrifying nightmare woke me up by 4am


    I couldn¡¯t sleep back, I was afraid to go back to sleep.


    I remained awake, upying my mind with lots of thought until day break.


    I was really famished as I walked to knock on Ceci¡¯s door for the iron that morning.


    It was the husband that opened the door.


    He shouted back to wife who was inside immediately he saw me


    ¡°Is our new neighbor..¡±


    I greeted him and asked for iron, just then the wife showed up by the door ushering me inside.


    I told her let me get my cloths so that I can quickly iron them


    Within few minutes I returned back with two cloths and was shown where to iron


    I can perceive a delicious aroma and in no time I saw Ceci eating White rice with fish stew.


    My throat was patched, I needed something to eat.


    My stomach growls immediately it perceived food.


    Cecil¡¯s husbandter left for work. After I was done ironing, I couldn¡¯t look pass the food.


    Ceci noticed and offered me some, I didn¡¯t even think before saying yes.


    She puts the food in a stic pack and I went with it to my apartment.


    Immediately I entered my house, i sat on the ground and ate it up to thest grain.


    It was too spicy but I didn¡¯t really care, I just wanted to satisfy my belle with whatever at hand.


    I drank deeply from the two sachet water I collected from Ceci too


    I was energized and quickly got dressed and left to Phil¡¯s office.


    I was looking okay with my appearance but my inside burn with hurt.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I took a cab that carried me to the ce.


    I sat at the reception counting hours and waiting for the HR after I was told that I needed to see the HR first and she was busy at that time.


    I wasn¡¯t the only one at the reception waiting for one thing or the other.


    I don¡¯t know what I will do if I see Phil, I¡¯m not ready to face him again.


    Just as i was still praying not to see him, he walked into the reception.


    I try to hide my ce so that he won¡¯t see me but it was alreadyte, I saw him matching towards me.


    Fear gripped me, I try to remain steady and calm but my raising heart beat wouldn¡¯t corporate.


    I wish I can disappear into a hole right now but it was toote, i have to face my fear fully.

 Episode 35

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°You were supposed to be here yesterday, what happened April¡­?


    Thank God he still remembers my name, he actually mentioned my name April. That part alone was veryforting u must confess. I wish he will say something again with my name attached to it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was very busy and by the time I was done it was alreadyte.


    ¡°Okay, you should have atleast call the receptionist to inform the HR about that because she was waiting for you yesterday but you did not show up at the end and beside, you have the contacts of almost every staff in your department¡­¡±


    I really don¡¯t see any reason to start calling the staff since I was already sacked from thepany and my only reason ofing was to collect the money he promised me and drop every of thepany¡¯s item in my care and the content is majorly the office mobile phone with it¡¯s sim cards and thepany¡¯s identity card which I have already given to the receptionist.


    If he won¡¯t give me the money then is fine, I have given them back their properties and will be out of here if he says there was no more money for me.


    ¡°, I¡¯m sorry about that, maybe if the money is not avable anymore then I will just leave, the office phone and id card is already with the receptionist.. I gave them to her.


    I don¡¯t want us to start going over the reason of me not showing up, it may even bring back the memories we are obviously struggling to forget.


    Is better to let the sleeping dog lie.


    ¡°The HR wille over and attend to you whenever she is free, sit here and wait until shees..¡± he said, gave me a second look before turning to leave


    ¡°Thanks Phil¡­¡±


    I said after him. he paused, turned and gave me another look, nod his head before walking away.


    I actually wanted to say sir instead of Phil but old habits is hard to die.


    I¡¯m very used to calling him Phil and just had to let it out without thinking.


    I¡¯m just pretending to be okay but I¡¯m actually not okay, no is very hard to feel okay when things are no longer as it used to be.


    I miss Phil, I wish I can run up to him and throw my arms around him.


    Oh Phil, the man behind my smile, the reason I had so much hope and able to survive Louise brutality because I know with Phil everything will be alright.


    He was my prince charming who will save me someday and I thought I will be able to outsmart Louise before Phil finds out the whole truth.


    I wanted to move into my house as soon as possible then invite Phil over and tell him everything unfortunately the hurtful truth came faster than expected.


    I had several chance to tell him the whole truth, I even invited him out one day for that very purpose but instead of telling him the main reason of wanting to see him, I ended up asking him about the job that I don¡¯t really have n for at that moment.


    Although it all worked out for my good because the job offer paid off well for me but I still hated the fact that I kept a huge secret away from him.


    No, is hard to forgive such, I don¡¯t deserve him. He¡¯s better off without somebody like me.


    Beside we are neither in the same ss or league yet he choose me and although I can¡¯t really tell exactly what attracted him to a nobody like me but I thank God for bringing him my way.


    Every moment with him was precious, it is the memory I will forever cherish in my heart.


    I wiped off a tear as I bent my body so that nobody will notice my tears, failure or struggle.


    Time was moving with speed and I haven¡¯t seen the HR yet but I really don¡¯t mind.


    This lone moment in this special ce was bringing back lots of emotional thoughts.


    I achieved a whole lot from the short moment Phil and i had together.


    I have been able to save and get my own ce, that alone is a huge achievement. If I¡¯m able to get another job then I will start saving for my school.


    It will be a little difficult because I have to save up for rent, for foodstuffs, and several other things and also it depends on how much is the sry.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    ¡°God.. I need you. I may not be able to make it on my own. I¡¯m tired, exhausted from everything. I¡¯m sorry¡­ deeply sorry, forgive me of all my bad choices. I made a lot of mistakes, some are deliberate while others are just a childish mistakes. I feel like a loser already and need a saviour to rescue me from drowning. I need you Lord¡­ I really need you. I miss home. I hate to admit but I miss my family, I miss my Mom, my Dad and siblings. I want to go home¡­ maybe as a prodigal daughter. I don¡¯t want to know who is wrong or right. I don¡¯t care how much bad they treated and pushed me to the wall and I have to escape. I just want to start again and ignore all. I¡¯m tired.. I¡¯m not as strong as I thought. I have loosed important person that matters most whom you sent on my way to help me out¡­ I can¡¯t continue like this Anymore. Instead of winning I kept loosing, that¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still here, the HR haven¡¯t attended to you yet..¡±


    I quickly wiped off my face before lifting it up.


    It was obviously Phil that interrupted me. I didn¡¯t see himing or heard any movement.


    ¡°Yes¡­ yea, I¡¯m still waiting for her.


    I didn¡¯t know is been more than an hour already and I have been sitting, reminiscing over the past and throwing wishes to God.


    ¡°Why are you crying¡­? He asked with a little concern in his voice.


    ¡°Me? I¡¯m not crying.. no no, I¡¯m not crying. Is just that I mistakenly got my finger into my eyes, in the process of trying to control the itching my eyes began to bring out water¡­ that¡¯s all..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a very good liar. Old habits die hard I guess..¡±


    He said it and then pause and stare at me


    ¡°I¡­ I agree, you¡¯re right Phil. Sometimes I just lie for no real reason at all. I use to think lying saves me from trouble but instead it worsen my trouble. Yes, I was actually crying but not just because of you but over everything happening in my life, my wrong choices, mistakes that I have made, includes my personal life. I felt a little emotional while thinking over the past but I will be alright. I¡¯m sorry for crying in your office environment. Is gettingte, will the HR still be able to meet me today or do I need toe back tomorrow sir?


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, if you can wait for her.. fine.


    He replied, gave a deep breath and continued


    ¡°.. I saw Louise yesterday, he came here mid afternoon looking for you. Well, he said he came inte because he was searching for thepany¡¯s address and thought you will be here to collect the money and he mentioned you took off with some of his important stuffs, stole his money and he wanted it all back¡­¡±


    I was shocked to learn that Louise actually came looking for me.


    He was trailing me, thinking I would being to Phil¡¯spany straight.


    Why will he even lie that I stole his money and stuff when he doesn¡¯t even have money that can be stolen.


    ¡°He¡¯s lying, I never took any of his things or his money. I¡¯m not sure he knows what he¡¯s talking about. Every household items i took was all mine¡­ I bought them and carried them along..¡± I said emphatically.


    ¡°You carried them to where? I believe you didn¡¯t sleep at Louise housest night..? Have you two finally broken up? you know what never mind answering any of the questions..¡± He said. Phil¡¯s questions sound more sarcastic to me.


    I did not even know how to answer such question.


    There was a sudden silent and I seriously begin to detest his tormenting presence.


    I wish he can just leave me alone with my guilts rather than tormenting me with all I¡¯m struggling to put behind me.


    With the way I¡¯m seeing it, I¡¯m not sure today¡¯s meeting with him will go down well.

 Episode 36

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    With his intensed presence, I decided to spill out the truth this time.


    He may probably not care about whatever I say now but I just have to say it anyway.


    ¡°I moved to my own rented apartment yesterday. I have been wanting to do that and to escape Louise. I feel so free now that I¡¯m finally out of Louise house, and we were never an item. We were only tmates that¡¯s all..¡± I replied looking away from him.


    Phil suddenly chuckled before saying


    ¡°Woah April, you¡¯re a piece of work seriously. You and Louise are ¡°just¡± tmates? tmates that sleeps with each other and lied to everyone.. including me that they were family. tmates that lies together, ran away from real family to live together as lovers, tmates that n together to drain money from their supposed victim, who foolishly happens to be me.. really? He said as he raised his eyes, daring me to denial it.


    He could as well nail me to the cross and crucify me.


    I hate his presence even more now, and wish he can just disappear truly.


    Where¡¯s the HR, why is attending to me taking her forever?


    I don¡¯t want to be here anymore and if not that I really needed the money I won¡¯t dare show my face here.


    Everything he said was like a bomb to my ears and I felt so bad and angry at same time with both the tone and the unfiltered words.


    He raise the wound I was trying to get rid off.


    Phil was right but I really don¡¯t need a reminder, I¡¯m not proud of my past. I¡¯m trying to be a better person and don¡¯t need the stones thrown at me.


    I stood and stand tall to his faceN?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    ¡°You know what Phil, you can go ahead and think whatever you want to think. I¡¯m tired of trying to prove to you how much sorry I am. I exined to you I made bad choices and realized a bitte. I don¡¯t care what you think of me, it does not really matter. I am sorry for everything and truly I am but if you take satisfaction in taunting me then whateveres thereafter is on you. I¡¯m done trying to prove anything to you.. you can go on with your perfect idea of me. A liar, a prostitute, a pretender and everything bad. I¡¯m done waiting and your HR shouldn¡¯t bother about the money anymore. I¡¯m out of here¡­¡±


    I picked up my bag and started walking away.


    He neither move nor left that exact spot.


    I was about getting down stairs when I saw Louiseing through the ss walls.


    I rushed back and with the speed I ran into Phil who was also going down.


    I almost fell down but he caught me up.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry sir,¡± I said almost out of breath.


    ¡°¡­ Louise ising up, I need to hide please. He must not see me.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to hide here, this is an office not a children¡¯s y house. There¡¯s no hiding ce for you here¡­¡±


    I thought he wanted to throw me out but I was surprised when he asked me to go back to the reception and sit down.


    I was confused as I went to sit at the reception.


    He called the security to send Louise out, and in no time Louise was asked to leave the premises.


    ¡°.. He¡¯s gone now, you can leave if you don¡¯t intend waiting for the HR..¡±


    He said and started walking away.


    ¡°Phil¡­ thanks again..¡±


    He didn¡¯t give me a nod this time, just a hurtful look as he walked towards his office.


    I decided to leave, but as I was about getting out of the gate I saw Louise hanging around outside, obviously waiting for me.


    I quickly ran back before he could even see me.


    I decided to go and wait for the HR. I don¡¯t really mind if the HR decided to take the whole day before attending to me, I will wait.


    Anything that will make me avoid Louise, I¡¯m ready to do it.


    I hope by the time I will be leaving, loui will be gone by then but for now I just have to keep waiting.


    Even if Philes back to insult me or call me names, I won¡¯t mind at all.


    Louise is one man I don¡¯t intend to see or have encounter with again in my life.


    He almost ruined my past Life, but he won¡¯t spoilt this my new begining, I don¡¯t want him in it.


    I will do everything to keep him out of it.


    Even if I have to sleep at the security house today but the only thing i know is that I neither want to have anything to do with Louise.


    He¡¯s a gue and I¡¯m avoiding him with everything.


    He was trailing me yesterday, found Phil¡¯spany and came looking for me.


    I really thank God that I changed my mind froming for the money and decided toe today instead. Although he still showed up today looking for me but he could have caught me easily if it was yesterday.


    He lied to Phil That I stole his money and other unmentioned items, which he wants back


    He came to collect all I stole from him when I never even picked a pin that belonged to me.


    He will neither see any dim from me or even see my shadow.


    I will never let that happen, never again.


    I sat at the reception as the waiting continues.

 Episode 37

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I was feeling sleepy as the day goes without any sign of the HR


    I struggle to remain awake, this is an office and I will be breaking a rule if I decided to start sleeping.


    Philip may walk in and decide to throw me out. He was probably looking for ways to throw shades at me or remind me of my mistakes.


    I checked the time and it was almost 4pm. In about an hour time the work hour will be over


    Maybe the HR deliberately kept me waiting because I don¡¯t see any reason of she noting to attend to me, even after she was told that I have been sitting at the reception and waiting to see her.


    Maybe, I¡¯m not of any important or because I did note yesterday like it was agreed upon.


    All of this aren¡¯t excuse, she can see me within few minutes, I sign whatever needed to be signed and off she goes, she return to whatever work she was doing and I find my way home.


    I¡¯m sure that it won¡¯t take more than five minutes of her time to attend to me. I¡¯m here to get my money which is very important to me and after now it will be thest of me in theirpany.


    I will miss everything about the office, everything which includes Phil.


    But with time I will stop missing the office and carry Phil in my heart as I travel through life.


    I thought he was the man sent to rescue me from the dungeon i was in


    He did rescue me from the cage I found myself, Louise was holding tight the keys but with Phil¡¯s presence I managed to get free but not totally.


    I still feel caged with guilt and Louise is still following me around.


    I¡¯m still not really free like I so much wanted.


    Louise maybe gone by now because is over two hours that he was sent out, he will definitely get tired and leave after waiting for over two hours.


    Who am I deceiving, Louise is a very difficult person and doesn¡¯t give up easily.


    He won¡¯t leave until he has seen me or gotten the money he so much


    wanted.


    But I hate to break it to him that he won¡¯t get a dime from my money again.


    I really need to sleep, I couldn¡¯t get enough sleepst night.


    My eyes felt heavy and I¡¯m tired.


    Maybe I should just close my eyes a little, I will feel better.


    Immediately I rxed back on the chair, closed my eyes, within few minutes i dozed off and was awaken with a tap.


    I try to recognize exactly where I was


    I sat properly, my face felt wet, I touched it and realized I was actually drooling when I slept off, It was actually my saliva.


    I was too embraced as I try to wipe my face with my hands.


    I slept off while waiting for the HR, it just dawned on me.


    I looked up at the person that tapped me awake and almost wish I can disappear.


    Philip was standing with a little distance between us.


    His hands were in akimbo fashion as he kept staring down at me pathetically.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it wasn¡¯t intentional. I didn¡¯t n on sleeping in..¡±


    He interrupted me with a wave of hand


    ¡°You said that you were leaving, you never mentioned you wanted to stay back and wait for the HR. I¡¯m surprised to see you here sleeping in my office..¡±


    I looked around worried, then back to my wrist watch. It was just few minutes past four in the evening.


    It felt like I have been sleeping all day, whereas I only slept for about fifteen to twenty minutes


    I don¡¯t know what to reply to Phil as he stood towering over me like a god.


    I don¡¯t have any excuse for breaking one of the rules I know well since I also used to work here and knows everything concerning thepany.


    But I couldn¡¯t beat nature, I was hungry, tired and bored, plus the fact that I did not get enough sleepst night.


    Is only normal for sleep to overpower me.


    There¡¯s nothing I can do. I have apologise already and if he needs more apologize then he can have as many as possible.


    The only thing I hated so much is the part of the drooling.


    He wasn¡¯t supposed to see me in such manner.


    He has never really seen me sleep before, and right now his whole thoughts will be just as I feared.


    He will be thinking that¡¯s the way I usually sleep, with saliva running down my mouth but is not true, i hardly drool except when I¡¯m ufortable and tired too


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.. really sorry¡­¡± I said repeatedlyN?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    I felt defenseless and avoid looking at his face.


    If he wants more sorry¡± I can give as much as possible, that¡¯s if he will feel better and leave me alone


    The way he stood over me makes me feel defeated, if he says another thing I will still apologise


    Saying sorry repeatedly in this situation is not a problem at all, the only big problem I have right now is how to get out of his sight to avoid all this embarrassing moment.


    ¡± The HR is not on seat, I got to know not quiet long. The receptionist should have informed you about that or probably she thought you came to the office to get some sleep and not money. She should have reminded you of the kind of environment that you are in because is obvious you forgot¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir..¡± I replied again.


    He was quiet as I picked up my bag and clutched it so tight.


    If he ns to throw me out without the money then I can¡¯t do anything. I will dly ept


    ¡°You will have toe back tomorrow, today is almost gone and so is the HR. She has been gone for hours and will not return back to the office. You missed your chance today again. If you¡¯re still interested in the money then you will have no other choice than toe again tomorrow¡­¡±


    ¡°You and all the staff in the HR department are not normal..¡± I said standing and holding onto my bag.


    I have heard enough of this whole nonsense ¡°good girl¡± thing. Enough of all this humiliation and insults.


    How much is he going to pay me that he wants to suffer me this much.


    I stood and started going, he called my name twice.


    I turned back angrily and said


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare mention my name Philip. I thought I was the bad one here but You¡¯re wicked, heartless and selfish. I hate myself foring here in the first ce and as much as you hate me, I have apologise enough and no longer care about your hatred for me. I have finally epted defeat and I¡¯m really done here¡­ enjoy your money and yourpany, I don¡¯t need it. We don¡¯t belong in the same world and I won¡¯t let you or anyone humiliate me further. I will pick all my shattered pieces and make something good from it. You think I¡¯m useless or has no value and that¡¯s why you treat me like trash, you¡¯re not different from Louise. You men are filled with scum.. I¡¯m out of here..¡±


    I started walking away, he said calmly but loud enough


    ¡°Well, if you still need the money I can quickly do transfer to you instead of you againing tomorrow. I guess that¡¯s why you¡¯re really disturbed? Louise is still waiting outside for you.  I¡¯m about leaving now, you can join me in the car and I will take you pass Louise¡­¡±


    I paused, breathed deeply before turning to him. Just knowing that Louise was outside the gate waiting for me send fear all over me.


    Louise is my nightmare and I don¡¯t want to go back there again


    ¡°You can do the transfer, should I send my ount details or call it out to you? Since you¡¯re leaving now, I don¡¯t mind joining you just to cross the gate, that¡¯s if is okay by you¡­¡±


    He gave me a disturbing look before asking me to wait for him downstairs.


    All my anger melt down, I was like a scary little mouse, I began to go downstairs to wait for him..


    ¡°Are you hungry?


    I heard him asked and quickly turned


    ¡°Are you talking to me? I asked quietly


    ¡°Yes, who else? We¡¯re the only two in this reception. So are you hungry April?


    He still had his bully voice and face remained pale without smile but i was hungry and crave to fill my stomach with proper food..


    ¡°Yes, yes I¡¯m hungry. Thanks for asking¡­¡±


    I just have to add the ¡°thanks¡± because I wasn¡¯t expecting such question from him.


    He asked me to wait downstairs for him, he needed to pick up something in his office before joining me.


    I nodded and went down to wait for him close to his car.

 Episode 38

    He came down and in no time we drove out.


    Surprisingly Louise was still outside the gate, he was standing beside thepany¡¯s flowered wall watching and waiting like a hawk.


    I try to make sure that he sees me and not just seeing me but seeing that I was with Phil.


    He can¡¯t never get around how it all worked out because Phil and I are supposed to be enemies, Phil was meant to hate me and note anywhere close to me after discovering the shocking secret about me and Louise.


    I know it will be hard for Louise to get out of shock after seeing us together again.


    I was tempted to stick out my tongue or even my middle finger at him but I turned down the urge.


    Phil was beside me and may not like that at all. I just wanted to put everything about Louise behind me.


    He stood watching with all his eyes pooping out of it¡¯s sucket.


    The huge urge to stone him with one leg of my shoe or do something that will hurt his feeling greatly came with force.


    I bent down and removed my shoe, I lifted it to my hand, holding it tight.


    I realized that the ss was up and looked over at Phil, he looked back at me


    ¡°What are you doing? He asked as he saw me holding my shoe


    ¡°Oh.. I, I want to spit out saliva but the ss is up, can you roll it down a bit?


    ¡°You want to threw out saliva that¡¯s in your mouth with your shoe in hand? You intend to throw that shoe at Louise right? That¡¯s a foolish thinking and you¡¯re not ready to stop lying over little things that doesn¡¯t really count..¡±


    I ignored him and lowered my shoe back to my feet.


    We drove past and I looked back at Louise, he couldn¡¯t stop staring.


    I¡¯m so d he didn¡¯t get any money or even my presence.


    I wanted to say all thanks to Phil but only if he stop being rude to me.


    He stopped at one of the fast food I love, parked and we got down.


    We walked in and sat to eat.


    He moved the menu towards me.


    I don¡¯t really mind anything at all. I just wanted to get filled and get out.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I checked through the menu and pointed at rice and chicken with vegetable sd.


    The waiter that was at our table took our orders and left.


    We didn¡¯t say anything to each other, I was sitting opposite him and staring at people walking in and out, also people eating alone and those in twos or in morepany.


    Phil was busy with his phone and didn¡¯t say a word to me.


    I wanted to start a conversation but I didn¡¯t really know what to say and didn¡¯t want to push my lucks with him.


    Our food arrived and we started eating in silent


    I realized that I was more hungry than I thought.


    He ate a little and push back the te which signaled that he was done.


    He still had lots of food and meat on his te.


    He was sipping his drink while busy with his phone and waiting for me to be done.


    I ate all of mine and stared at his te of half eaten food


    ¡°Do you still want it or I should eat it..¡±


    I asked trying not to sound too desperate.


    ¡°I¡¯m through with it..¡± he replied and he watched as I carried his leftover and began to eat.


    He didn¡¯t say anything as he went back to his phone.


    I belch aloud unknowingly.


    He looked at me disgusted.


    ¡°, I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t even know it will make a loud noise..¡± I quickly replied.


    ¡°Can we be on our way now or you still want more food?


    ¡°I¡¯m filled, we can go. Thanks alot for the food..¡±


    He nooded and asked if I wanted to take home some more food.


    ¡°If it won¡¯t be a problem, I don¡¯t mind at all..¡± I replied wearing a smile.


    He asked the waiter to package some food which he quickly paid for.


    We left with my hands filled with food packs


    As he drove, he asked me which of the area I live.


    I mentioned it to him and he said he wasn¡¯t very familiar with that side, he will stop on the way and I can continue my journey from there.


    But instead of stopping on the way like he said he drove on, I kept directing him on the right road to my house.


    We stopped at the gate of my house, he heeped a sigh before saying


    ¡°I will transfer your moneyter tonight, when I get home. You don¡¯t need toe to the office again tomorrow, Is not necessary. Hope you¡¯re still using the same bank ount details?


    I replied affirmatively.


    I sat still not ready to get down, he looked over at me


    ¡°What¡¯s it¡­ is there a problem? Why are you not getting down. isn¡¯t this your house again?


    I felt embarrassed and speechless as I gently opened the car and get down with all the food he got for me.


    He reversed and zoomed off.


    I wondered what I was actually waiting for, maybe a little gist,ughter with a suiting kiss like we used to do before things went sour.


    I walked into the gate and straight to my apartment.


    I saw a young and good looking man walking around thepound.


    A new face I haven¡¯t noticed before or maybe because I just moved in yesterday.


    I didn¡¯t pay attention to him as I kept moving to my side. He walked up to me and greeted.


    ¡°, Hi, I¡¯m John. My sister lives next to your apartment. I mean the pregnantdy, she¡¯s my elder sister. I just came to pay them a visit this afternoon and will be around for maybe a week. Probably, we will get to know each other better.. if that¡¯s fine with you..¡±


    I nodded with a smile and continued my walk down.


    he suddenly said behind me. ¡°I didn¡¯t get your name..?


    I apologized before telling him my name.


    He said it was very nice to meet a pretty Lady like me with a unique name.


    He asked if I was a model and I replied that I wasn¡¯t.


    I was too tired to start conversing with him, I needed to get inside my house and take a long shower and an uninterrupted rest.


    Although he was indeed a good looking young man but Phil was all that upies my mind now not John but having a friend around isn¡¯t a bad idea.


    I turned and walk away to my apartment.


    He stood staring at me from behind.

 Episode 39

    Phil didn¡¯t send the money like he said he would, I kept checking my phone for an alert but nothing came in.


    I thought of calling him the following morning because I went straight to bed after showering and eating another te of food.


    I was too tired to care about the extra food remaining and what to do with it.


    I showered and went straight to bed that night.


    The floor was cold, I really need to get a bed soon. My cloths and sheets were helpful as I spread them up in the floor and I slept off and didn¡¯t even remember if I had a bad dream or a good one.


    when I woke up, my phone was the first thing I checked but nothing was there.


    I assumed Phil had sent the money but maybe my bank didn¡¯t send the credit alert due to somework issue.


    I decided to check my ount bnce and that¡¯s when I realized that the money wasn¡¯t sent at all.


    Is unlikeable of Phil to promise a thing and not fulfil it, yet he asked me not to bothering to the office today for the same reason. he made it very clear that he will transfer the money when he gets home, I wondered what happened.


    Probably he changed his mind.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    Well, alot has changed about Phil and I¡¯m not surprised at all.


    If he decides not to give me the money again, perhaps, i need to stop thinking about the money and focus on other things.


    I brushed my mouth and began to tidy up the house.


    I remembered my left over food from yesterday, I rushed to check if it has spoilt.


    I need something to eat that morning and i can¡¯t go over to Cecil for food, especially not now that her brother is around


    The food was still okay but needed a serious hitting from the fire.


    I was just in time although I know the taste will change a little.


    I quickly transfer the food into a pot and used my cooking gas which was filled already to do the warming.


    I didn¡¯t care if the food was about  to spoil, I was rather happy I have something to eat that morning.


    I ate it like as I set out to properly putting things in ce in my house.


    I worked that morning untill mid day when I felt hungry and decided to go out and get something to eat.


    I changed over to something simple and nice, a flowered jumpsuit with a single thready hand, I picked up my hand bag and left.


    Just before I got to the gate, I heard my name and it was John, he came out of their apartment and walked straight to me.


    ¡°Good day pretty April..¡±


    ¡°Hey, John Good afternoon..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going out, can Ie too? He asked giggling like a child.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m not sure you will¡­¡±


    Before I can say anything he interrupted with a wave of his hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m just kidding April, what if you¡¯re going to visit your boyfriend or some other important ce? Don¡¯t mind my silly question..¡±


    ¡°You can actuallye, if it won¡¯t be any trouble. I wasn¡¯t going far, just to get something to cook and eat..¡±


    ¡°Great, I have been looking for where to go. Please give me a second let me grab something inside and tell my sister of my whereabouts so that she won¡¯t start wondering where I went to..¡±


    Just then Cecil came out of the house with her big belle.


    John went back to the house to pick whatever he wanted while Cecil approached.


    ¡°I can see you have met John, my brother?


    I smile with a nod while she continued


    ¡°¡­ I love this smile on your face, which means John is going to be one of the qualifiers of a future hubby right?


    ¡°Cecil, I never say, think or discussed anything like that with you..¡± I replied with a smile fully on my face.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to say it April, from the smile I see today on your face, I have drawn my conclusion. My brother is actually a cool gentleman, he¡¯s going to make a good husband, in addition he¡¯s caring doctor also handsome. What else do you need in a man.. tell me..¡±


    I chuckled at the question.


    ¡°Is this kind of a rtionship ss? Because I can¡¯t remember signing into any¡­¡± I replied and breathed in relief as I saw Johning.


    ¡°¡­ Cecil thanks for marketing your brother to me but I need to go now..¡±


    Just then John joined us and we left.


    Cecil said as we were about crossing the gate.


    ¡°You two look good together, you will makes a fine couple..¡±


    ¡°Thanks for noticing sis, now go back to the house with your big stomach. We will be back soon..¡± John said sarcastically to Cecil.


    I looked back at her and she winked at me in a funny way.


    Iughed.


    It felt good to reallyugh and I was a bit relieved.


    Alot of things had almost choked life out of me this period andughing again really makes me feel good and rxed.


    We started walking down the street and he said


    ¡°¡­ Don¡¯t mind my sister, she can be a little pushy. Although you and I actually look good together. Take a long look at us.. don¡¯t you agree..? he said grinning from ear to ear.


    ¡°I can¡¯t clearly see now due to hunger and so I don¡¯t agree, allow me to eat first so that I can see clearly and have energy to decide on that..¡±


    He beganughing out loudly.


    ¡± And I thought I was the king of sarcasm, you deserve a sash for beating me to it..¡±


    I smiled as we walked down, I bought the things i needed and John suggested we stopped for a drink and snacks but I turned it down.


    I told him next time, I needed to go and cook.


    Having a tour on the street gives me an insight of where things are actually sold.


    ¡°So, tell me who¡¯s the lucky man in your life¡­? John asked as we were walking back to the house.


    ¡°, I will rather not say¡± I replied.


    He tapped me a little and said


    ¡°You aren¡¯t proud of announcing him yet? is he a fraudster or some sugar daddy..¡±


    I looked at him without reacting.


    ¡°¡­ hope you¡¯re not offended? That must be an expensive joke.. I¡¯m sorry about that.


    I nodded quietly and he said again


    ¡°.. but can I be your sugar ant? The one that¡¯s always attracted to your sweetness. I¡¯m not sure I canpete with the Duke and mayors in your life so I will rather be the ant. I can even hang on your cloth or on your hair without you knowing. All that matters is that I¡¯m there with you¡­¡±


    I chuckled ¡°I¡¯m hearing this format for the first time. No man had used this kind of lines on me before, I like it though because I can squash you under feet without even noticing that you¡¯re gone.,¡±


    He called me wicked and we both began tough and was suddenly interrupted with a car horn.


    I turned and saw Phil, he drove to a spot and parked.


    I was really surprised to see him. I never expected to see himing to my end.


    What exactly is he doing here? I wondered within myself.


    He was looking at me and John as he parked at a corner of the street.

 Episode 40.

    I crossed to the other part of the street to go meet him


    I was excited and couldn¡¯t hide it from him.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I saw an envelope in his hand and my smile widened up.


    I began to calcte what I was going to buy and fix up in the house


    I wondered why he chose to drive down when he could have transferred the money to me.


    His eyes kept traveling from John, who was at the other side to me.


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t do the transfer to youst night, so i decided to bring it over instead..¡±he finally said


    ¡°Thanks.. so much. You shouldn¡¯t havee all the way down.  But I appreciate youing..¡±


    I said exposing my teeth. I was just too happy and couldn¡¯t hide my joy of seeing him and also the envelope.


    He was not concentrating as he hand the cash envelope to me.


    It feels far heavier than expected.


    Which means Phil added alot of more cash to it.


    ¡°.. Thank you..¡± I said again.


    He looked at me without a word.


    ¡°Do you want toe inside and see my apartment..? I asked but he didn¡¯t reply back


    His eyes kept traveling back and forth.


    From John then back at me.


    He had lots of questions in his eyes which I wish he could ask but he didn¡¯t.


    I waited, hoping he will say something but when he didn¡¯t, I decided to slowly turn to leave to avoid him asking me again what I was waiting for since he has given me the cash envelope. Just like he did yesterday in his car.


    He will probably asked me to go since that¡¯s all he drove down to do.


    John looked at me and curved a smile, I smile back because I was happy and just couldn¡¯t hide it.


    Phil driving down to personally give me such a huge envelope, the act alone was really giving me so much joy.


    I was continuesly thanking him as I turned to leave.


    ¡°Is that your new boyfriend?


    He finally asked as I was about walking away from him.


    ¡°He¡¯s just my neighbor, his name is John..¡±


    ¡°Ooh, your neighbor? I don¡¯t believe you neither do I trust you..¡±


    I raised an eyebrow not knowing what to reply back.


    ¡°¡­ yes, I don¡¯t believe you April. Louise was once upon a time your cousin too but it turned out that he was your lover..¡±


    I heeped a silent sigh before saying


    ¡°John is a brother to my neighbor, and we just met yesterday¡­¡±


    ¡°You met him only yesterday? Wait.. did you say that you just met him yesterday and you two are already an item? Laughing and Chic chatting on the busy street like a newly wedded couple¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t reply him. I wonder why he¡¯s so agitated and worked up seeing John with me.


    He acts like he does not care about me at same time he shows he cares in a violent way.


    ¡°Phil, I really do not want to fight. Please, let¡¯s not spoil today¡¯s good mood with another argument or start brooding over the past. Please¡­¡±


    I said pleadingly to him.


    ¡°You¡¯re in a good mood because of John or because of me? Don¡¯t bother answering that¡­ is not important. You¡¯re a big liar and I¡¯m afraid that it has eaten deeply into you¡­¡±


    He paused and continued


    ¡°¡­ you told me initially that he was your neighbor. And you also said he is a brother to your neighbor? Woah, the lies kept flying and making me wonder if you¡¯re a deep enemy with ¡°truth¡± and afraid to rte with it..¡±


    ¡°Alright..¡± I replied and was ready to leave.


    ¡°Alright? Is that all you can say for yourself? You¡¯re a cheap liar and I won¡¯t be surprised if you¡¯re already sleeping with your so called neighbor, just like you did with Louise..¡±


    He was yelling at me angrily and I¡¯m sure even John and other passerby can hear it.


    I felt embarrassed but I promised myself that no matter how angry I get I¡¯m not letting go of that huge envelope in my hand


    I shakes my head and turned to walk away while holding tightly to my envelope.


    ¡°It used to be Louise, your brother and sex partner and now is John your neighbor whom you just met yesterday but it appears he had been warming your bed before now..¡±


    I angrily turned, this time around I couldn¡¯t take the insult anymore.


    I threw what was in my hand at him and didn¡¯t even realized it was the envelope I intend to keep no matter how angry I get.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want me again yet you care so much about every detail of my life. The bitterness in your heart smells out badly Phil, I pray you heal soon..¡±


    John crossed over to our side and face an angry Phil


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s not how to speak to a woman. I don¡¯t care to know who you are, If you don¡¯t know how to treat a Lady then you need to good learn it..¡± John said but Phil was not having it.


    He  became more furious and said.


    ¡°Wow April, your good neighbor is here. He came to your defense and to rescue you like a hero. I hope his case doesn¡¯t end up like Louise whom you can no longer face because of fear and shame..¡±


    ¡°For your information Phil, I¡¯m not scared of Louise neither am I ashamed of anything. He¡¯s my past and I don¡¯t like visiting there. And you¡¯re also my past and I don¡¯t need someone like you in my future. Get hold of yourself and stop the hate so that you can move on..¡± I retorted back


    I started walking away and he couldn¡¯t stand the sight of John following me like a guard.


    ¡°Woah, your good neighbor is looking at your behind, clearly waiting to devour you. I wonder when you will ever get tired of using men or them using you because you aren¡¯t wise. Neighbor my foot¡­¡±


    I ignored him and walked away as my leg could carry me.


    He stopped talking as I left him but I never turned to look back.


    I walked into the gate and straight to my apartment.


    John followed me, tears was glittering in my eyes.


    I blinked severally to prevent it from running down.


    John followed me in, trying to calm me down.


    I needed someone to talk to, my emotion was not stable and I didn¡¯t want to be left alone.


    I briefly told John that it was all my fault, I narrated a little of what brought about the hatred from Phil. I didn¡¯t go into much detail


    ¡°Is still not enough reason for all the insult and embarrassment he melted out to you. I¡¯m sorry that he turned your sweet smiling face to a sad one. I will be here until you feel Okay..¡±


    I told John that I was alright and he can leave to leave.


    The whole painful thing in all this is the fact that I loosed such a huge envelope that would have sort out alot of things for me, especially now that I don¡¯t have a job.


    Just when John was about to leave, there was a knock on the door.


    I went to the door and it was Phil.


    ¡°You left this..¡±


    He stretch the envelope towards me, I saw guilt written all over him.


    I wanted to tell him to take his money and leave but I can¡¯t pretend like I don¡¯t need the money.


    I stare at the envelope before collecting it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about what I angrily said out ther¡­¡± He paused as John appeared on the door way and stood beside me.


    Everywhere fell silent again.


    I was holding onto the envelope and not ready to let go whatever maye.


    The silent continued and so was my first on the cash.

 Episode 41

    He suddenly turned back and  started walking away after the long stare he gave John and I


    ¡°Phil, John was about leaving¡­¡± I said  as he was walking out.


    John crossed the room, walked away after giving Phil a side look.


    I was expecting Phil toe back but he started walking away too without a word.


    I watched him leave, I groan angrily as i walked back inside.


    I heeped a heavy sigh before sitting on the floor and began to count the money.


    It was more than enough to fix anything I want to fix in the house.


    I tidied up the food stuff that I bought, cooked and ate the little that I can


    After cooking, the appetite to eat wasn¡¯t there anymore.


    All I could think of was Phil and no other. As night approached, I sat on the lonely room ying everything that happened in my head and wishing it yed out differently.


    Phil would have been here with me right now and we will be talking and settling our problems or maybe not but it wouldn¡¯t have gotten to the extent of him bashing me with different name calling or me trying to also get back at him.


    I wouldn¡¯t say John was the cause of everything because he wasn¡¯t also aware that Phil will show up and change the event of the day.


    I was free, really happy as the day progresses, I was joking andughing out my trouble with John and wasn¡¯t expecting any sh at all.


    I understand that Phil only wanted to bring the money to me but seeing me with John must have reminded him of Louise and triggers all the hurt he was trying to forget


    I didn¡¯t n to spoil his day neither did I foresee that mine will turn out sour.


    Even with all the money given, which supposed to atleast ease my hurt I¡¯m still lonely and sad.


    I wonder when life will actually make sense, I wonder when I will be free from all of this. I kept moving from one sad story to another and thinking the end is soon but instead alot keep popping up.


    Could it be that there¡¯s no end to all this sad tale in my life? I want to be at peace, happy, alive and really free.


    I¡¯m still caged with all my troubles, I¡¯m not free at all. Maybe someday I will breath without looking over my neck, a breath of life and real freedom.


    Weekend came and I made provision for other things I ordered online to arrive


    My cushion and rock carpet arrived and the furniture men helped set it all up for me in the sitting room.


    My bed with it¡¯s essories arrived. Tables, fridge, very portable dining sets, more utensils, cooking items, I had wardrobe in the room already. I fixed it up properly with the help of the men.


    Television and home theater for music arrived too.


    The bathroom and toilet was also put in other


    After I got everything I needed and it was all fixed, even though I used the help of John to fix some things in my apartment


    My house was looking extra ordinary beautiful.


    As I looked around, walking from kitchen to the bathroom, sitting room, bedroom and every corner of my apartment was looking homely, it appears good and smells rosy too as I hung few air freshener around which was in form of a small wrapped bouquet flower.


    After everything was fixed, that first night.. I had difficult sleeping as I try to get adjusted to the whole thing and my new bed and pillows.


    The second night with everything avable wasn¡¯t like the previous, I slept like a baby and enjoyed my night alone with a calm music ying on the background.


    I¡¯m living a lifestyles of a big baby girl, is enjoyable and rxing.


    I had foodstuffs in the house, I had fridge and stored some fruits and carbonated drinks in it.


    When I said I was living the life of a big girl I meant it.


    I can¡¯t believe that I have my own ce and not only that, is also furnished to my very taste, just the way I want it.


    April is living thefortable life she ever dreamth of, oh yeah¡­ I am and I¡¯m enjoying it but I wish my blessing areplete.


    Like having a job, having enough in my bank ount and most importantly being in contact with my family, good and healthy rtionship and knowing how they¡¯re alright.


    And also having Phil and wish things will return back as it used to be between us.


    John came around sometimes, we watch television together and I offer him drink.


    We gist generally and watchedy jokes.


    It was all on friendship level as I have exined to him that whatever personal rtionship he wants from me is impossible.


    We can only be friends and if he tries to be so pushy I will cut him off totally.


    John was afraid of pushing out his luck with me, he tries toply with my wishes and remain as a good friend.


    The money Phil gave me did lots of goodness for me.


    I¡¯m really grateful that he was kind enough to hand over such amount of cash to me.


    It was a total of 250k and I screamed when I counted it. I can¡¯t thank him enough for all his kindness, even when I don¡¯t deserve anything from him he still surprised me with the huge amount of money.


    Is been three weeks and I haven¡¯t heard from him or seen him ever since after the incident. Maybe he decided to move on and forget everything about me.


    Even if he forgets, I can never forget him.


    He still means the entire world to me and will always be remembered.


    I just imagined my sister Rachel here with me, scattering my stuffs, sorting things that will be of a benefit to her and checking out my cloths, trying all the cloths and selecting the beautiful ones that will fit her perfectly.


    Eating and dumping the tes in the Kitchen sink, waiting for me to wash the dirty dishes. wetting the floor without cleaning it and loads of other annoying things she does.


    My Mom will say, ¡°April let your sister be, she¡¯s just a kid, April go help her wash it or clean it, April, sweep it or cook it for her..


    Even when Rachel approached teenage age they still refers to her as baby of the house who can¡¯t pick a pin.


    I¡¯m to let go all the time and let Rachel have whatever she wants and when she do something wrong I have to also take the mes for it.


    She is beautiful and there¡¯s no doubt about that and I was not even trying topete but I felt cheated with all that was melted out to me.


    After high school, I was supposed to be in the university but they kept using Rachel as an excuse because she was put in a very expensive school and I had to wait until she was done with high school before nning for university.


    I started working instead and began to save so that I can go to the university but all my savings went to Rachel because my parents will tell me that beloved daughter wants to hang out with her friends since she¡¯s the cheerleader in her school and had to pay for all her friends refreshments bills Or she had a thing or two to pay for in school.


    And when I refuse, they tag me jealous or stingy and say I was too selfish and can¡¯t share with my sister.


    Due to all of this I couldn¡¯t continue with my savings and I started nning an alternative way out and Louise was just in time for that.


    The humiliation, the whole trouble was just too much that I began to wish Rachel wasn¡¯t born


    I decided to run away from the house with the help of Louise who brought me to another big city, Faraway from home and that¡¯s exactly how I wanted it.


    He also became a monster and took all my savings with lies that he was also saving it for my school. I worked for about a year and it was all given to him and he deceitfully took it all.


    I was left at his mercy until Phil showed up like an angel to rescue me.


    But because I was too afraid to tell him the truth about Louise he found out in a shocking way.


    To keep him I had to lie that Louise was my rtives but Phil discovered alot of other things about me and haven¡¯t been able to forgive.


    Life has never been the same ever since.


    But despite how annoying my sisters may seem, I still miss her. I truly miss her and wish she was here with me.


    I miss my brothers, I miss my Mom and Dad.


    I might try to justify my main reason for running away but I wish I have endured all the cruelty for my parents sake.


    I just couldn¡¯t take it anymore, I just couldn¡¯t stand them all.


    Nobody cares if I was happy or not. It was all about Rachel. Even my Brother mark, used me of stealing his money back then, when it was actually Rachel that was the culprit and my parents joined in.


    After he found the money, no apology was rendered for wrongly using me.


    Life goes on and I just couldn¡¯t bear it anymore.


    Suicide didn¡¯t settle well in my mind and I don¡¯t have a heart for such.


    Killing myself to send a strong message to them, maybe with a written note would have been okay but I will never do such because after a month or two everyone will move on, and that¡¯s if they will even mourn up-to a month.


    I wanted so much out of life and left to make my mark.


    I wanted to go to school, studyw and be the strongdy I always dreamt off.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Two of my greatest achievement is escaping from Louise and having this apartment to my name.


    Nothing much but being alive is hopeful enough.


    I will keep pushing.


    My next n would have been searching for a job but I want to check if I can set up a business with the little money left.


    I had two things in mind and will try to truly make my mark before going back home.


    I decided to call Phil one-day when I can no longer bear the silent.


    As the phone began to ring, so was my heart beat.

 Episode 42

    It rang but he didn¡¯t pick up and I called again but no response.


    I decided to move on, no matter how hard it may be.


    After all the expenses that was used in renovating my apartment, I had little left in my ount.


    It won¡¯t be enough to start the small business I n on doing. The best option will be to get a job.


    John was running another medical program, he had to move out of his sister¡¯s house andes around for a visit during weekend


    Cecil gave birth to a baby boy and there was a small party in thepound.


    I even went in search for a nice gift for both mother and child.


    I picked something affordable for two of them and she was very grateful.


    I stop by mostly at her ce to check on how the baby was doing.


    John told me that going to his school program from his sister end was good but he really do not want to disturb them now that there¡¯s a new baby.


    He decided to stay with his friend for the meantime until he gets his own ce.


    He said he studied medicine and still has an extra program after the current one so that he can be a qualified doctor.


    I really don¡¯t know how all the too much reading works for him but I still wish him best of luck.


    And we talks whenever hees visiting which is mostly weekends.


    He gives me all the gist, I enjoy listening and cracking jokes with him for only the period that he¡¯s around.


    He asked me about school, if I don¡¯t want to further my education and I told him that i will but I need to get a good paying job first.


    He said I may not be able to get a very good paying job without a good certificate, but if I really wanted to further my education then I need to take it seriously.


    He mentioned about some distance learning and part time schools that I can go while still working.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    All I needed is weekend to go to my school programs while I use week days to do my normal work.


    It was a fantastic idea and I have never thought of that before.


    That was exactly what I¡¯m going to do, my schooling will only be on weekends and it won¡¯t get in the way of my job.


    I thanked John for the wonderful idea and resumed my serious job hunt


    I continued searching for job as each dayes and goes.


    Transportation and feeding with other necessity were digging deep into the remaining money I had left.


    In few weeks from now I will be broke and may start selling somethings I had in the house to survive


    I won¡¯t let ite to that.


    I attended few interview and was asked to resume but the working condition did not fall inline with my ns.


    The two interviews that I attended open office on Saturday and one  said I must be present.


    They close earlier around 1am while the otherpany does not work every weekend.


    Although their pay was too poor, I could I have still managed but I needed a Job that weekend will not be included at all.


    I kept searching untill I got a job at a big unisex boutique which was a close bustop to Phil¡¯spany.


    They also have phone essories next shop and I will be operating from both end.


    The pay was good and the job description isn¡¯t that difficult.


    They asked if I can work on Saturday and I told them that I can¡¯t that I¡¯m ning on starting a weekend program and wouldn¡¯t want to promise what I can¡¯t do.


    The manager said no problem and that was how the job was given to me as a customer attendant


    My job is to be attending to customers, following them around as they pick whatever they wants, then I¡¯m to help them carry their picked items to the cashier who will check and issue the bill to them.


    As easy as it sound it wasn¡¯t really very easy to do but I can manage because I have my weekend off.


    Phil never showed up at my ce again or called, I try calling him few asions but he wouldn¡¯t pick.


    I believe he has moved on and I just have to move on too but I still don¡¯t know how to do that.


    I¡¯m trying to forget him and focus but there is no day that passes by that I don¡¯t think about Phil.


    He crosses my mind every day and I really don¡¯t know what to do.


    I found out that is mostly rich men and women thates to shop in this boutique and they sometimes leave a good tips.


    Aside my sry, I was also getting little money that sums up to a good amount


    The prices of the items are really high and a low sry earner can¡¯t afford them.


    I collected my first sry and began to save for my part time weekend school


    I also brought out some for my personal expenses.


    If I collect sry up-to three times, I will begin my school registration.


    Atleast by then I will have enough money to do that.


    The cashier got a better job and decided to resign at the end of the uing month


    My manager said I will take over from her once she leaves and that means More money for me.


    I was already looking forward to the day the cashier will leave doy that I can assume her post with a better pay.


    I dressed and was at work as usual that day but wasn¡¯t impressed with the day sales record. we couldn¡¯t record much sales and it wasn¡¯t unusual because it happens sometimes. I only attended to two customers and was looking forward to another when a man that looked so much like Phil walked in with ady


    My heart double skip before I took a deep breath to rx. It can¡¯t possibly be Phil, so I thought.


    When I approached the young man and his woman so that I can assist in showing them around and also our new arrivals too, that was when I came face to face with the truth.


    Phil? Oh my God is Phil, he was with a beautifuldy.


    I almost disappeared into a hole but thank God that I wasn¡¯t a rat.


    ¡°April? He eximed surprised when he saw me


    I was far more surprised to see him than he was.


    I was speechless and unstable as he stared at me while thedy beside him appears confused.


    I need to do something before I embarrass myself in front of him and hisdy but the truth is that i don¡¯t even know what to do.

 Episode 43

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I took them round the shop, showing them where they can find each wear, although I was very ufortable all through this time but I try not to show how much uneasy they both make me feel.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t need to show us anything, I¡¯m sure we can find whatever we¡¯re looking for, right Phil?


    Thedy with him said as she turned to Phil and asked thest question.


    Phil looked at me but I quickly looked away.


    ¡°No Danielle, I will like her to keep showing us around the shop. April please continue..¡±


    Thedy that I just discovered that her name was Danielle wasn¡¯t impressed with my presence and also with Phil¡¯s reply.


    She said quietly to Phil.


    ¡°I saw the rm and difort on your face when you first saw her, you knew who she was before and it was probably here you met her. This isn¡¯t your first time here and I¡¯m sure you know your way round and definitely don¡¯t need a way finder to guide you. I don¡¯t think her help is needed.. is obviously not necessary..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Danielle but I don¡¯t really see anything wrong with me asking her to show us round. Why are you getting all worked up because of April? She works here and doing what she¡¯s assigned to do. Rx please¡­¡± Phil said as he took her hands to calm her down but she was still not alright and insisted.


    ¡°I saw the way you looked at her when you first saw her. It appears something is amidst and i don¡¯t feel good with that. I know you can¡¯t stoop low to date or have anything to do with amon shop attendant in the past. You¡¯re ssy and very picky when ites to women, so why am I getting this funny feeling that there¡¯s something between you two? I see longing in your eyes when you look at her or maybe I¡¯m exaggerating, let me wave it off because is not possible. I also want to wave her off right now because her presence is irrelevant. I asked you to take me shopping and you finally decided to grant my request today, my other request is that I want you to personally dismiss her by yourself or you will have to choose between two of us..¡±


    Phil raised an eyebrow at her.


    She said something again in whisper before turning to look at me with warning in her eyes and turned back to Phil as she continued talking in whisper that I can hardly hear her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if my presence makes you ufortable. I was only trying to do my job but since you don¡¯t need my help with anything here then I will leave you two. My apologies for any inconveniences and I will be out of sight but if you need any help I can ask my colleague toe help out¡­¡±


    I said as I turned to leave


    Danielle said as I was walking away.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you should have done since, not stand there, listening and staring at us like you got no sense in that head of yours. where you looking for ways to take my man from me?.. but hey, I hate to break it to you and your empty skull that such will never ever happen. He doesn¡¯t move with a sslessdies or shop attendants.  Get us another attendant that will take us round, we don¡¯t want to see your face until we¡¯re done here, if you show your ugly face, I will personally report you to your manager and get you fired¡­¡±


    I wasn¡¯t angry I was rather worried for Phil. He deserves a well mannereddy not this sharp mouthed Danielle.


    I didn¡¯t pick offence from what she said because it was obvious that she felt threatened with my presence and wanted to get rid of me.


    I thought Phil was supposed to get someone way better, not some pretty face, spoilt brat Danielle.


    Is written all over her that she was way too pampered and became a spoilt brat.


    Things must go her way, her words should be the final, her ways should be the best


    I gave Phil a pitiful look, he was really in for it. I wish he was with ady that knows his worth, who will truly love and respect him.


    Phil is a nice guy and one of the few remaining best, anydy that has him will be so lucky.


    I would have been the lucky one not this undeserving Danielle but I really messed things up and despite that Phil has already moved on, I haven¡¯t been able to do the same. well, not totally because I still thinks of him and wish things were better with us.


    I wish he will see the red g in his shrewd woman sooner thanter so that he can have a rethink before is toote and he began to think every woman is the same when is never true.


    I left them alone after asking my colleague to attend to them. Luckily two of my fine customers, who happened to be our good customer and drops tips for me anytime theye shopping stepped in.


    One of them called Jerry has be my good friend, he buys me things unexpectedly.


    He got me an expensive new phonest time from the phone essories shop next to our boutique.


    I¡¯m always happy seeing him in his kind and jovial nature.


    I greeted them warmly and try to use their presence to distract my mind from Phil and his Lady.


    But even as I try to walk round the shop with this fine looking guys just as they requested, I still look to see if I can have a glimpse of Phil when they¡¯re not looking.

 Episode 44

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    He touched me gently and said


    ¡°You seem to be a little distracted today, is anything the problem..¡±


    One of them asked, and as usual it was Jerry that asked me.


    He mentioned he had asked me a question twice but I was looking on a different direction and didn¡¯t answer him


    I quickly apologized and asked him what I can help him with.


    He wanted to know where he can find a designer, expensivedies bags. he wish to get it for a specialdy.


    His friend left us alone to a different section


    I took him to the ce and that¡¯s where Phil and Danielle were browsing through.


    Danielle was picking expensive things and throwing it into the shopping trolley that my colleague was pushing around for her.


    She will point at anything she wants and my colleague will pick it and drop inside the cart filled with her things.


    I looked at Phil and our eyes locked onto each other before I managed to look away.


    They¡¯re were still distance away but Phil and Danielle¡¯s presence filled up the whole section.


    Poor Phil was silently watching her, he was neither looking happy or sad in his demeanor but I can clearly see that he was not happy for some sort of reason.


    I guess he can¡¯t wait to get out of here and away from me.


    I wish he will stay all day but I seriously have to understand that we can never be together again


    ¡°If you¡¯re to choose among all this beautiful designer bags disyed here, which of them will you choose..¡±


    Jerry asked me, bringing my attention to him


    His friend was at the men side after saying he doesn¡¯t need any sort of help, I should stick with Jerry.


    I raised an eyebrow at Jerry¡¯s question because I was really confused.


    He had a cute smile on his face as he asked again. ¡°¡­ I want to get the bag for a special person, I can¡¯t stop thinking about her ever since I set my eyes on her and I have been looking for means to let her know how much she means to me. She is worth  the entire world but since I can¡¯t get her that, I decided to buy one of the most expensive gifts for her here. So I want you to help me make a choice, pick a very special unique and offcourse a designer handbag here for me that you think this my special woman will love. I¡¯m a guy, I know alot of guys stuffs but not very familiar withdies stuffs..¡±


    I was really excited to be given such offer of picking something special for whoever Jerry was secretly dying for.


    I smiled broadly as I checked for one of the nicest, outstanding bag. Something that the specialdy can¡¯t say no to. Although is expensive but I¡¯m sure Jerry can afford it.


    The color too was beautiful and one of my best colors.


    But it was indeed a unique color and the hand bag is just only two and it came inst week and the other one was with a different color and essories. It was bought by a rich business woman same week that it arrived.


    The second one was seated like a Queen in the shelf and waiting only for the luckiest and wealthy person and today is it¡¯s lucky day.


    I pointed at it and Jerry agreed immediately that it was indeed a very handbag.


    He picked it and hand it over to me to hold it for him which I did dly.


    Jerry was also very funny as he try to make me smile but even though I managed to smile my heart still beat for Phil who has not stopped looking at Jerry and I.


    Danielle saw the beautiful handbag in my hand, which I was holding on for Jerry and said she wanted the exact type but my colleague told her that it was thest one I was holding.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    She became grumpy and approached Jerry


    ¡°Can you sell the bag to me? I will pay more money for it. My boyfriend is rich and I¡¯m also wealthy. I need that bag.. it¡¯s so cute and pretty like me. How much do you want for it and I will pay even close to double of the amount. I just want to have it by all means. I didn¡¯t see it in time and the slow shop attendant with me couldn¡¯t even show it to me. Whoever owns this fine boutique needs to fire all his staff and employ new and active set of serious workers. Not some brainless staff that tries to steal my man and a dull fat one that couldn¡¯t show me one of the finest designers here, despite we walked passed it¡¯s shelf..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry but as you can see I have already taken it and is because of it¡¯s uniqueness I took it, all thanks to April my dearest, pretty attendant. You asking me to sell the same bag that I just bought is ridiculous.. ¡±


    He turned to me and said ¡°.. Aprile on let¡¯s go. You really made the right choice for me, this bag must be way too special and I¡¯m d you choosed it..¡±


    I smiled and nodded affirmatively.


    Danielle boils angrily as I followed Jerry to the cashier.


    Phil was so cold and quietly watching us. He didn¡¯t say a word all through or attend to his angry Danielle that obviously can¡¯t be pleased no matter what you do to please her.


    Phil must be feeling disappointed with his pretty girlfriend but the way the event of the day turned out was unexpected.


    I was begining to feel better, especially with Jerry making me more important in front of Danielle and her troubled boyfriend.


    whoever Jerry was getting the bag for has to hold onto it and appreciate it well because it came from a very sincere and caring heart, is not just about how expensive it was.


    Jerry¡¯sdy must be a very special person.


    I wish I¡¯m very special to someone too just like the girl.


    Jerry¡¯s friend was waiting for him as we came to the cashier.


    Just as he was paying for the bag, it was the exact time Danielle and Phil came to the cashier.


    They waited as Jerry paid for the hand bag and stepped aside for them.


    Danielle couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the designer bag which was specially wrapped up for Jerry with a rose flower attached to it on his special request.


    Danielle really needed the bags but it was toote, she can¡¯t have It. Even with all the money she ims to have or her boyfriend has she still can¡¯t afford everything she wish for.


    That¡¯s sad, and I don¡¯t feel any pity for her because she is very rude and doesn¡¯t care about anyone else but herself.


    ¡°This is for you April, I got it for you because you¡¯re the woman I can¡¯t stop thinking about. My friend is aware how much I have wanted to do this long time ago but I was just a little worried of what you will think of me, I can¡¯t keep it anymore and just as you¡¯re the prettiest girl I have evere across with a kind and pure heart like a dove, I want you to have something as special as you and I also want to know if you will like to go on a date with me.. maybe one of this days, at your convenience..¡±


    I became speechless, Danielle stood staring with shock written all over her


    Phil moved about as he stared at me with so much energy and I noticed sweat broke out on his forehead.


    My colleagues were pping and hyping me in a very sweet manner that made me feel special.


    I was speechless as I stared at the most expensive gifts any man has ever given me.


    I was picking a special gift for Jerry¡¯s mystery woman not knowing it was for me.


    I don¡¯t even know what to say as both Danielle who¡¯s anger boils even more was ready to shoot me down if her eyes was a gun with bullet.


    And also Phil who appears very ufortable as he cleared his throat loudly, moved about and try to clean the sweat that suddenly appeared on his forehead even with the air conditioner cooling everywhere.


    I don¡¯t know what to say even Jerry¡¯s friend said I should ept his friend request because he is a nice and caring guy and has been my secret admirer for a while now.


    I looked from the gift to Jerry and then at everyone around.


    I opened my mouth to say something but no word came out.


    This gift is way too expensive yet I so much wanted it.


    What do I really do now and Phil¡¯s presence was making me feel uneasy.

 Episode 45

    ¡°This means a whole lot Jerry, thank you. I really appreciate this kind gesture.


    I replied after collecting the expensive designer bag from him, he was filled with smile


    ¡°Thanks April for epting the gift and does that also means a yes that you will go out with me someday¡­ soon..¡±


    I nodded shyly without minding if Phil was watching or not.


    Danielle suddenly walked closer to where I stood, her eyes were on the bag in my hand


    ¡°You¡¯re wasting your money buying such expensive gift for amon sales girl. I bet you that she doesn¡¯t know the value of what you just gave her. She will appreciate cash gift more, even half of the money for the bag will mean a whole lot to her than the bag itself. She clearly doesn¡¯t know the value of the designer bag and never had anything like that before. Sell the bag to me and give her half of the money then you will see what I¡¯m talking about¡­¡± Danielle said. She obviously wasn¡¯t ready to agree to the fact that somebody like me is the owner of such expensive handbag.


    ¡°You should stick to your boyfriend to get you another designer bag and leave us alone. I got the bag for her specially, you mentioned selling earlier but I rejected your offer. The handbag is rightfully with the owner now, quit bothering us please¡­¡±


    ¡°My worries is that this handbag is in the wrong hand. It will be misused, undervalued and not well appreciated. She may be walking about in her local street and some area boys who know the value of the handbag she carries will attack her and take the bag from her to either resell and make alot of money or they gift it out. I¡¯m only concerned for her and the designer bag offcourse. If you truly cares about her like you im then you should be concerned too. You can¡¯t be doing all this romantic nonsense in front of everyone and endangering her life in the process. This handbag deserve to be in the right hand and be admired by the right clique not some peasant. Is notte to consider my offer, I have money and my boyfriend is also rich. How much do you want for the bag.. let¡¯s talk business before hoodlumse after your cheap Cindere with a very expensive designer in hand..¡±


    Jerry¡¯s friend suddenly brought out his phone and began taking pictures of Danielle and Phil.


    ¡°¡­ what¡¯s all this for? Why are you taking my picture?


    ¡°Just in case the bag go missing or April is attacked by some area boys like you mentioned then you and your rich boyfriend will be on the wanted list..¡± Jerry¡¯s friend said.


    ¡°And we will stay behind until her closing time so that we can take her safely home. Because you¡¯re too desperate for this bag and ready to do anything just to get it¡­¡± Jerry added.


    Danielle walked towards Jerry¡¯s friend ordering him to delete the pictures of her and that of her boyfriend that he took.


    ¡°No ma¡¯am, I¡¯m not doing that. You can rant all day but the picture serves as a security purposes just in case anything happens to April or the bag..¡±


    Phil who was quiet all this while called back Danielle so that they can leave, he has paid for everything she picked while she was looking for means to convince Jerry so that she can have the bag.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving here until this guy takes off our pictures from his phone..¡±


    She came at him and was ready to harass him until he delete the pictures.


    I asked Jerry¡¯s friend to delete the pictures and he did after a minute of daring Danielle to hit him first and see what he will do.


    Phil stood at a distance watching and when he can no longer watch he left, I guess he went to sit in his car and wait for his tigeris girlfriend.


    ¡°Is a shame that after all your royal princess, marketing strategies you still can¡¯t have the bag. You must be very disappointed in your wealthy self and ashamed of your pretty face. Your boyfriend must be regretting right now.. poor guy didn¡¯t know what he was getting at..¡±


    Danielle cat walked away after heavily hissing at us.


    Jerry and his friend burst intoughter which made her missed her steps twice on her way out.


    I was alsoughing and myughter erupted into something serious when I saw my other colleagues struggling not to show that they were equallyughing.


    I seriously begin to pity Phil and i wish he will caution his girlfriend to quit bullying people with her too much money, who knows if she¡¯s only boasting with Phil¡¯s wealth and may not have the so much money like she ims.


    Jerry and his friend hanged around waiting for me until I was done for the day, they took me home but I made them stop close to my street.


    I didn¡¯t want them to know exactly where I stay.


    I appreciated them for being  gentlemen, and the gifts from Jerry.


    Jerry¡¯s friend¡¯s name is Cody, I learnt of his name while they wereing to drop me off.


    Jerry gave me his mobile number and said I should let him know whenever I¡¯m ready to go on a date with him.


    I bid them goodnight and walked to my apartment.


    The first thing I brought out was the bag, the very bag that caused so much drama today and nearly caused a fight between Danielle and Cody.


    I gave it a long caresses all over it¡¯s body, wondering what was extra ordinary about it that almost gave Danielle a heart attack.


    Danielle made me feel I should be looking over my shoulder whenever I¡¯m going out with it.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    I could have collected the money that she was offering in ce of the bag but I enjoyed the look of defeat on her face when her money couldn¡¯t get her the very thing she wanted so badly.


    I thought of Phil and wondered what he will be doing or thinking after everything that went down today.


    I feel really good today, I sang even while in the shower and while preparing for bed.


    Jerry and his friend, Cody made me feel really special. I used to think I¡¯m undeserving, unworthy, filthy and do not deserve anything good but today defiled all of that.


    Maybe because Jerry doesn¡¯t know of my past like Phil does but some people don¡¯t need to know of your terrible past before blessing you.


    I could have cried myself to sleep seeing that Phil has moved on, but knowing that I was well mannered than his Danielle makes me rxed.


    She maybe pretty, stand tall like a model, rich and outspoken but her bad attitude follows her everywhere and that¡¯s notmendable.


    And God sending those two gentle men to give me a Royal treatment right in front of Phil and his woman felt like heaven.


    I will never forget this day in a hurry.


    It has be one of my best day


    I watched short movie on my television, check the designer handbag that I stationed on my sitting room centre table so that i will always look at it and remember the story behind it.


    I touched it onest time, carried it into the room and put it close to my bedside so that it will be the first thing I will see when I wake up in the morning.


    I whispered many thanks to God for his undeserved blessings.


    I looked at my special handbag for thest time, whispered a tiny goodnight to It with a smile


    I heaved a satisfying sigh of relief before I finally close my eyes to sleep.

 Episode 46

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I was getting ready to go out and get few foodstuffs since is a Saturday.


    I saw some of my texts books which I was going throughst night on the table, I packed them up and kept them properly on one side of the table.


    I was still processing my admission for a part time school but most schools were on holiday then and I was asked to hold on until resumption before starting.


    I have been able to write two of their exams which I wasn¡¯t really prepared for and that made me not to score high mark but I got a credit in one of the exams which wasn¡¯t bad but it was just by luck I happened to get up to a credit.


    I was afraid I will fail but luckily I did not only pass I got a credit.


    The second one was a pass which they said I will have to rewrite when the school resumes


    I have been able to obtain the school form, filled the ones I can fill and submitted before the end of the semester.


    When the school resumes, I will know what is my fate.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    I still have two exams before I will be epted.


    Somebody told me that if I have money I can work my admission quicker and get into school


    But I don¡¯t have the kind of money that was mentioned to bribe anyone just to get admitted into the school.


    I will rather go through the legit way to avoid another future disaster.


    I will resit for my exam, write any other one they bring.


    If I fail I will rewrite until I get admitted.


    Life has made me realize that doing things the right ways pays and also makes your conscience to be at rest.


    I¡¯m saving up for school and already gotten few texts books rted to the course I intend to do which isw but the school said they can¡¯t offer that, I have to choose between socialogy or political science


    I really don¡¯t want to do anything outsidew but since i desperately wanted to get into school, I decided to go for sociology.


    They said my new line of study is a bit rted tow, that¡¯s like trying topensate me. I understand that part.


    I wanted to studyw, to be awyer, not anything rted tow.


    But I had no choice than to go with my second choice.


    And the first exam was a general questions but the second was carved out from sociology, I have no idea about it.


    After getting a pass, I decided to buy one text book to be able to understand it better.


    I haven¡¯t been able to study much.


    I still have time because school resumption will be in six weeks time.


    I¡¯m very hopeful that the rest of the admission process won¡¯t be as difficult as it was initially.


    I¡¯m so happy, hopeful and expectant as I look forward to one day bing a graduate.


    The only thing that I¡¯m not happy about is the fact that part-time takes more years than the normal finishing time, that is what I was told and another thing is having to go for a total different course other than the major one I wanted to do.


    I¡¯m not a student because I haven¡¯t been giving a full admission yet but if anyone asks me, I let whoever that cares to know that I¡¯m a student.


    I¡¯m a student and saying it feels good.


    I¡¯m going to work hard to take care of school bills so that i won¡¯t be a dropout and also house bills so that the house owner won¡¯t evict me from the house and make me homeless.


    That¡¯s why I¡¯m more serious with my life than ever


    I can¡¯t deny the fact that I need little help but I won¡¯t put my hope on any one to avoid disappointment which can be heartbroken.


    Tomorrow is the day I will finally go out with Jerry.


    He seems like a nice guy, who will love and pamper me if I ept to date him.


    We have been chatting and getting very close. I¡¯m having feeling for him and wouldn¡¯t mind going into a serious rtionship with him.


    He said he loves me and his utmost desire is to one day make me his woman.


    I really want to be sure of who ever I will be in a rtionship with, I don¡¯t want any sad ending again in my life.


    Phil has obviously moved on with his Danielle, I have given up on hoping he will somedaye back.


    I¡¯m moving on and will be very careful with whoever that will be my man.


    I don¡¯t need another Louise in my life, it still feels sad to remember everything I went through under Louise.


    I thought someday I will have another chance with Philip but it obviouse that it will never be possible.


    He moved on way before I even know, now is also time for me to move on.


    Tomorrow will make a big difference, tomorrow is the day I will get to ept Jerry¡¯s rtionship request.


    He¡¯s a nice and caring guy and that¡¯s two of the major qualities that matters to me.


    I took my small clutch handbag and a shopping bag to put in whatever that I will buy.


    I forced it into the small hand bag that hung on my shoulder.


    I dressed smart like those university girls I usually see acting like they¡¯ve made it in life.


    That¡¯s the way I was feeling with my outfits


    I was heading to the door when I heard a knock.


    I wondered who will be knocking, could it be my neighbor or who exactly.


    I couldn¡¯t think of anyone that will be looking for me because I wasn¡¯t expecting anybody.


    I walked to the door and asked who was there, I was too curious and didn¡¯t have time to start checking the security hole on the door.


    I was dumbfounded immediately I opened the door and saw who was actually knocking.


    He stood staring at me without a word.


    I was perplexed, speechless.


    He was thest person I was expecting to see at my door step today.

 Episode 47

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± He managed to say


    ¡°Hey..¡± I replied in return.


    ¡°I guess I came at the wrong time, right?


    I didn¡¯t reply to that.


    ¡°¡­ Are you alone in the house or you have somebody in there? Are you going out on a date. Just wanted to know if you¡¯re alone..¡±


    He asked calmly as he stared into my eyes, my lips, by body then back at my eyes again.


    Why is he asking if I¡¯m alone, who was he expecting to be with me in the house


    ¡°I¡¯m alone Phil, i was actually going out?


    ¡°Yea, that¡¯s quietly obvious..¡± he replied and gasped out slowly.


    ¡°¡­ I.. don¡¯t know if you have few minute to spare, I came to speak to you..¡±


    Ever since the incident at the boutique which is more than two weeks, he finally decided toe and talk.


    ¡°About..? I retorted. I wasn¡¯t ready for any war with Phil.


    He has moved on and I was trying to do the same too.


    Beside, does his girlfriend knows that he is here? I just don¡¯t want any trouble, especially from all this rich people.


    Danielle said I¡¯m from the slum and don¡¯t have anything good going for me, she wanted to analyze my life history when she doesn¡¯t even know anything about me and Phil stood watching in silentContent property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I know with the kind of person that Danielle is, there is no way Phil will be able to convince her to keep quiet.


    He must¡¯ve understand her kind of person before going into a rtionship with her.


    Is just unfortunate that he went for her kind of person of all the whole homely, disciplined and well mannered girls flirting around him.


    ¡°¡­ i¡¯m here to talk to you but Since you¡¯re going out¡­¡±


    He paused and looked away then back at me


    ¡°¡±¡­ maybe I will  check back some other time. Will you let me know when next you will be avable please..¡±


    He was all calm, handsome and wore his gentleman¡¯s attitude so well.


    Phil is really a fine man, and I missed this nice part of him because after the big discovery of who I am and who Louise is to me, Phil changed dramatically.


    He changed so much that I sometimes wonder if he was still the same caring, loving and sweet man I used to know who respects me and ready to do anything just to make me happy.


    The man standing before me is the old Phil I have longed for but is alreadyte.


    I understand I hurt his feeling and he didn¡¯t fail to make it very known to me. He showed it in his attitude, actions and harsh words that by betraying the trust he had for me, things will never patch up or remain the same ever again.


    And that¡¯s why when I realized that he now has a girlfriend, I was sad but is better that way.


    He won¡¯t have to be reminding me of my past always


    Moving on was actually the best ideas for everyone and I was doing same too.


    ¡°¡­ will you? He asked again


    ¡°Sure.. I will¡± I replied


    He nodded quietly.


    I saw that he was not making attempt to leave.


    ¡°Maybe I can spare few minutes, do you want toe inside¡­?


    He nodded and I asked him into the house.


    As he walked in, he stood looking at the entire house.


    ¡°You¡¯ve a nice apartment..¡±


    I smiled sheepishly. For Phil tomend my apartment means I really tried in putting it in perfect piece.


    It was through his help I was able to get a ce of my own and even furnished it to my taste.


    Danielle haven¡¯t seen my ce, if she know that I¡¯m actually a big girl on my own with a well furnished apartment she won¡¯t say that I¡¯m from the slum or that I live in a dirty, poor, gutter smelling street.


    She was judging me without even knowing who I am. She felt because I work as a customer attendant in a boutique I¡¯m a nobody.


    She kept saying how rich she was and that of her boyfriend, Phil was obviously embarrassed by her whole drama,  from the look on his face that day, it was ring.


    ¡°.. Is lovely in here..¡± he said again while still standing.


    ¡°Thanks Phil..¡± I replied with a smile.


    He saw some text books on the table and walked to it.


    He checked them up before setting them back exactly the same way he met them.


    ¡°Are this for you¡­? He asked pointing at the books.


    ¡°Yes, they¡¯re my school books..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re in school now..? Wow¡­ what school is that and what are you studying..?


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m studying sociology in crown star university and is part time though¡­¡±


    I said feeling like I¡¯m on top of the world.


    I understand I haven¡¯t gotten admission yet but I know that I will soon.


    Nobody has to know that I¡¯m still processing my admission


    I know I said I wasn¡¯t going to lie, especially to Phil but who cares.


    It wasn¡¯t really a lie, I¡¯m almost there. The dy I had was the holiday and once is over I will continue working towards getting into school.


    Phil no longer care and wouldn¡¯t even remember most of what I said when he¡¯s out of here and in Danielle¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Why part time..? He asked puzzled.


    ¡°Be.. cause I have to take care of my own bills without depending on anybody. You¡¯re aware that I¡¯m alone in this city and have to hustle for everything. Running a part time program gives me time to work and make some money. I¡¯m not a rich princess like your girlfriend, some of us have to work for our money.. you know..¡±


    He turned and gave me a strange look before going about looking around the sitting room.


    I just have to remind him that I¡¯m not a spoilt brat like his girlfriend who was ready to do anything it takes just to have a designer handbag.


    Phil really helped me in getting to where I am. I know there was a point in life I had to lie and collect a huge sum of money from him.


    He was really kind but I know the ground I stand in wasn¡¯t safe at all when Louise started threatening and ckmailing me.


    I had to act fast and Phil was my only escape route


    I just had to act before I¡¯m left at the mercy of Louise who would have made me beg for every crumbs.


    Phil walked slowly towards where I stood.


    He took my hands into his, held it a little tight.


    ¡°April¡­¡± He called my name in a whisper and pause.


    ¡°.. April. I miss you..¡± he said very quietly as he breathed in.


    I was just staring at him without a word.


    Should I jump on him or start dancing because he miss me.


    He miss me yet he went ahead and start another rtionship.


    ¡°¡­ I.. hmmm!


    I guess whatever he wanted to say hung on his throat.


    He drew me closer and kissed me.


    It feels good at first and didn¡¯t want him to stop but had to hold back myself, I¡¯m not the same girl I used to be.


    I¡¯m dependent, fearless and I don¡¯t ever want to be a second option for anyone.


    I stepped away from him.


    ¡°What are you doing? Why did youe visiting Phil?


    I asked.


    He moved closer and try to hold my hands again, I was really tempted to be in his warm arm and allow him kiss me all over but no, not this time.


    I have learnt enough life lessons. I want to be loved and appreciated by the right person, not pitied and admired.


    ¡°.. you have a girlfriend Phil. Whatever you are trying to do isn¡¯t right to me and not to her either. Do you even care to know if I¡¯m already in a rtionship too, you didn¡¯t care to know if I have a boyfriend before kissing me..¡±


    ¡°Because I don¡¯t care, I don¡¯t care to know about your boyfriend. I¡¯m not in a talking terms with Danielle. Listen April, I just want you and don¡¯t want to care about any one else and I know you still want me..¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t work that way Phil, not anymore. I¡¯m trying to be straightforward in life and avoid troubles. You have to respect me as a person and respect your girlfriend too. I thought you came to talk? You understand I was going out when you came¡­¡±


    He stared at me for a while with a straight face


    ¡°So should I leave?


    He finally asked, I don¡¯t even know what to reply.


    I don¡¯t want him to leave yet I don¡¯t want us to continue this way.


    He still has a girlfriend which he wasn¡¯t in a talking terms with but can actually settle their misunderstanding anytime and I will be left hanging.


    Although i still want Phil but Jerry is in my life now, not fully but he knows I¡¯m going to be his woman.


    I can¡¯t betray him, it will be devastating.


    I¡¯m going on a date with Jerry tomorrow and will be starting another rtionship with him.


    Phil Showing up all of a sudden to kiss away the breach that was created, it doesn¡¯t work that way.


    ¡°¡­ should I leave he asked again..?


    I swallowed hard as I try to muster courage on what to say next.

 Episode 48

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°No..¡± I breathed it out.


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t want you to leave Phil, but you must try to understand that I¡¯m trying to move on too with my life just like you already did. I don¡¯t want to fight with you either, you have to do things properly¡­¡±


    He took me to a chair and we sat down.


    ¡°What do you want me to do, then I will do it¡­¡± He said.


    ¡°, Is not about what I want you to do. You have to decide what exactly you want to do¡­¡±


    ¡°I want to kiss you, I miss you April and want you¡­ please..¡±


    ¡°Phil youuuuu¡­.¡±¡±


    He suddenly cupped my face in his hands and began kissing me again. I melt under his arm and couldn¡¯t struggle. I want to stop yet I don¡¯t want him to stop.


    I felt helpless and moan silently as he held me close, his hand traveled under my loose blouse.


    Hey me gently on the cushion and went fierce as he was almost pulling off my bra.


    I had to push him away.


    ¡°April please..¡± he begged with so much passion in his eyes.


    He moved to hold me but I stood from the chair, readjusting my clothes


    When do Phil bes this strange person.


    The Phil I used to know is gentle, loving and will never forcefully pin me to a chair and tries to make out with me.


    This must be all the effect he got from that Danielle or Phil is trying to take advantage of me.


    ¡°You¡¯re mistaking me for a harlot or something close to that..


    I kept trying to readjust my cloths, my bra fell to the ground.


    I felt so cheap and loose as I shamefully picked it up.


    ¡°¡­ please leave..¡±


    I¡¯m very certain now that I wanted him to be gone.


    He just walked back into my life after several months of staying away and cursing me for hurting him which I took full me for.


    I was hoping it will still work out only for him to move on and suddenly reappeared in my work ce with his rich girlfriend who did not only bully me but threatened me right in his front.


    Showing up after two weeks with no apologies to the scary event, he wants to forcefully sleep with me right in my sitting room, on my cushion.


    What sensible man does that kind of thing.


    This is definitely not the Phil I used to know.


    Everything has changed about him


    I could have fallen for this if it happened during the time I was trying to do everything for him to forgive me but not now that I was over brooding the past.


    ¡°I¡¯m sor¡­¡± He paused, looked up at me and gasped out again as he tried toplete what he was trying to say.


    ¡°.. I¡¯m sorry. I thought that¡¯s the way you liked it..?


    ¡°Like what? I asked ready to fire backBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the way you like your man to make out with you? I thought I was too gentle, not man enough for you. Louise was the man with the action and you gave him yourself on a daily basis and lied to me..¡±


    I opened my mouth speechless.


    ¡°Are we going back to this again..?


    ¡°Yes, yes April. I just want you to tell me what I wasn¡¯t doing right. I haven¡¯t been the same man ever since then. I can¡¯t get you out of my head, I can¡¯t be happy even as I decided to move on and forget about you. I felt miserable, broken and can¡¯t trust any woman because of you. You hurt me beyond repair April. Danielle was actually the seconddy I was trying to move with. It still didn¡¯t work out, not just because of her arrogance and disrespect but because I was trying to forget you yet I bought. And then this other guy showed up and started presenting designers and flowers to you and asking you to date him and I was there praying that you won¡¯t. I almost went crazy watching the show, I don¡¯t care about Danielle or her ill attitude problem. I was more after you April. What did I ever do to you that made you hurt me? I try to be the best I can be for you, I never know that I was being deceived. It hurts.. everyday it hurt, April¡­¡±


    He heaved a heavy sigh, emotional anger was written on his face


    ¡°¡­ the bitter truth that I hate to admit to, is the fact that I still love you despite everything. I can¡¯t find happiness elsewhere or move on for really. You think I moved on, I was only trying to escape from the whole emotional attachment for you. I understand that you¡¯re in a rtionship. Well, I¡¯m not in a rtionship anymore, I ended things with Danielle that very night and I¡¯m not trying to get into another, I¡¯m not going to force myself into another rtionship just to forget you. I¡¯m done trying and won¡¯t force things to happen between anotherdy and I knowing that it won¡¯t end well. I will heal faster if maybe you tell me the truth what I did wrong or why you will hurt me knowing fully well I meant good for you. I will never deliberately hurt you¡­ never. and I¡¯m really sorry if i did that in anyway without knowing. If you¡¯re not ready to talk then don¡¯t talk, I will just leave like you want. I don¡¯t know when or how long it will take but I hope to really move on for real someday..¡±


    He readjusted his clothes and began walking towards the door.

 Episode 49

    ¡°They must be worried sick searching for you. You need to do things right this time¡­¡±


    ¡°How.. how exactly? I asked


    ¡°By going back home. You need to go see your parents, your entire family. Let them know that you¡¯re alive and well. Will you rather be happy to go back and realized that your Mom is in critical condition or you lose a family member because of your disappearance? Maybe one member of your family developed a high blood pressure and the condition kept getting worst and at the end, the person passed¡­¡±


    ¡°God forbids it¡­¡± I eximed


    ¡°Yes, God will forbids it but is high time to do things right, you need to put the past behind and focus on embracing the new. You can¡¯t continue like this April, you¡¯re not an orphan neither are you without a family¡­¡±


    I heaved a heavy sigh


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure they miss or care about me. They¡¯re better off without me and I feel the same way too¡­¡±


    The whole memory came flooding back. I blinked back severally to keep the tears from running down.


    I¡¯m d that Phil stayed, he was just about to open the door and walk out after our little fight, when I asked him not to go.


    He decided to stay without much plead.


    We sat down and I began to narrate my story all over again.


    As sad as it feels, I was ready to tell it all to him, just maybe he will understand me and why I was in the situation where he found me


    Why I had to cohabit with an animal in human form.


    Louise, changed from the nice human that promised me so much love, peace and safety to a monster.


    He became a monster who molested, stole from me and wanted to make me his ve.


    He turned into a ckmailer after finding out that Phil who showed so much interest in me was rich.


    Out of fear, I almost make him seed in ckmailing Phil.


    Louise would have not only gotten an expensive car from Phil but he would have also be a rich man if I had danced to his tone.


    He abused me s3xually, emotionally, even deceived me and took all my life savings.


    He threatened me even after all this and I lose my self-esteem.


    I felt i had no real value anymore.


    I became a shadow of myself.


    I couldn¡¯t return home to my people and couldn¡¯t escape from Louise.


    It was through Phil that I was saved


    After which the war between Phil and I started


    I have had enough to chew in life.


    In my vulnerable state, in my helpless condition Phil stepped in and gave meaning to my life.


    He showered me with love, gift, attention and gave me hope again.


    I will never deliberately hurt such an angel.


    I was devastated, broken, I hated myself when Phil found out about Louise and I.


    I still managed to push through Life because I only got myself in this big city and wanted to be a better version of me.


    I wanted to return back to my people as a better person, not as the angry child that had to run away from home because I felt unloved.


    Life thought me a lesson and I learnt in a hard way.


    It breaks off my prideful wings and humbled me.


    Now I¡¯m wiser, better than I was yesterday, more dependent, hardworking and more loving and forgiving.


    I¡¯m d that the war between Phil and I has finallye to an end today, the war is over after several months of unending trouble, regrets, guilts, heartache, emotional breakdown, fear, jealousy and hurts.


    Phil is back and this time he¡¯s ready to stay by myself as a true friend.


    I so much desired friendship with Phil, even if we¡¯re not going to be lovers.


    I just wanted us close.


    It initially seem like is not going to happen but is finally happening and I just can¡¯t hide my joy.


    He¡¯s the man God sent to my life to rescue me from the cage Louise put me


    It felt so good to be finally free from Louise but it was heartbreaking knowing that the man who indirectly saved me wanted nothing with me.


    I¡¯m liberated once again and will do anything to cherish every moment with Phil.


    I pray our friendshipst and breed more trust, understanding and love between us.


    I don¡¯t want to lose Phil again but life has thought me that anything can happen unexpectedly.


    I don¡¯t know if he has totally forgiven me from his heart.


    I don¡¯t want the past to keep us hostage or apart.


    I don¡¯t want my past toe between us again.


    I don¡¯t want to be reminded of it either.


    I hope Phil feels better with me as time goes on, so that our friendship can blossom.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure they miss you and will give anything to have you back..¡± he said bringing my mind back to the present.


    In truth, I really miss home. I miss my Mom and Dad.


    I miss my brothers and only kid sister


    Is been years, I sometimes imagine what they will be doing without me and wish I¡¯m with them


    I wish I never left home.


    But I couldn¡¯t take the partiality anymore, I couldn¡¯t take the favorites card they kept ying around me.


    I have had enough and decided is time to flee.


    While running, I ran into the wrong hand.


    But my story is gradually taking another new shape and I¡¯m so loving it.


    ¡°Do you think so? I asked


    ¡°Sure, I know so. From all that I gathered, they didn¡¯t do any of what they did to you deliberately. I¡¯m sure they don¡¯t even noticed that you were feeling unloved or left out. They see it as a way training you but I agree, it was not the best way. You have every right to be angry but running away was a mistake. Louise could have hurt you or even kill you and nobody will know what happened to you. That¡¯s scary right?


    I nodded.


    It was indeed scary when I think about it.


    He continued


    ¡°¡­ What do you say? Do you want to visit home or you¡¯re still not ready for that. I don¡¯t want to force the ideas on you, is your call, I need you to decide if is what you really want to do or you will rather give it a proper thought first..¡±


    I draw a long breath. The whole thing sound harder than Phil can imagine.


    ¡°Let me think about it, atleast a week..¡± I finally said.


    ¡°Is totally fine April. Take all the time you need alright? Whenever you¡¯re ready, let me know. And concerning your school..¡±


    He paused


    I used the silent moment to let him know that I¡¯m actually seeking for admission and not fully in school yet.


    ¡°, Oh you lied..? He said while raising an eyebrow.


    I couldn¡¯t make anything out of his expression. I suddenly had fear that he will be mad at me for the lie


    ¡°Well, I did. I didn¡¯t want to appear like a loser, like I haven¡¯t been able to achieve much in life. Saying I was in school makes me feel like I was atleast headed somewhere in life. A big goal I needed to personally score¡­¡±


    I gasped out and continued ¡°¡­ I¡¯m sorry for lying. I don¡¯t want you to be mad at me again. I promise not to lie to you.. again..¡±


    He chuckled


    ¡°, I¡¯m not mad at you April. From now onward, can we try to be transparent to each other? You know how much I hate lies. No matter how it hurts, please still tell me the truth. Nothing can shake or shock me anymore when ites to you. I really want us to start in a clean page, let¡¯s leave aside the old and embrace the new going forward. Alright?


    ¡°Sure.. I agree..¡± I said.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Like I was saying, concerning your school? Hope you don¡¯t mind going for a normal school.. full time, not some part time? Working and studying is not an easy thing. I want you to study whatever you want and focuse only on your studies. I will take care of every expenses¡­ but only if is okay by you..¡±


    I nodded excitedly, I thanked him all over again.


    He asked me to walk him to his car, he will also drop me off to wherever I intend going initially.


    I locked up the door and we left.


    This is indeed a new chapter of my life.


    I know this new page will be super interesting.

 Episode 50

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°Congrattions again¡± he said


    ¡°Thanks..¡± I replied with a smile.


    The happiness inside of me wish to explode like a volcano.


    I was excited to finally get to where I am.


    There¡¯s no doubts that I couldn¡¯t have made it if it was left to me


    I wouldn¡¯t have gotten here on my own without the great help from my super hero.


    Yes, Phil is indeed a God sent, sometimes I wonder if I¡¯m deserving of all the blessings that God has showered on me through him.


    I owe him a great lot.


    I have finally gotten admitted into a private University, courtesy of Phil.


    The money is huge, I begged him not to spend that much but to allow me go to one of those normal Universities since he had already refused me from the one I was initially seeking admission from.


    Phil insisted that he wanted me to befortable while schooling and to pay attention to my studies with any distraction.


    I was given admission today to studyw, the very course I always wanted.


    I almost settle for less, I was even ready to substitute it for a socialogy in the old school that I was seeking for admission but Phil was just in time to save the day


    As he took me out to celebrate, he congratted me again


    This time I began to blush like a child.


    I resigned from my ce of work as Phil wanted.


    He said that from the drama he saw, alot of men will be disturbing me and he doesn¡¯t want that.


    He refers to the romantic drama with Jerry and said it will be better I stop working.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Even before he started processing my admission into the private University, he wanted me to stop working.


    He said that my school is a full time school and requires my whole attention,


    Studyingw will also mean that I have to study hard.


    I totally agree to everything he says and immediately I drop my resignation letter at the boutique, my colleagues weren¡¯t happy.


    They all said they will miss me greatly,


    The manager didn¡¯t want me to go, he even wanted to give me another promotion with a better sry but no matter what I couldn¡¯t just stay any longer.


    I had to go.


    The manager said that i bring lots of customer to the shop and must of them enjoy the way I attend to them.


    He said I¡¯m good with customer service and will be ready to wee me back anytime I changed my mind.


    I know I will miss all of them too but in this new page, in this second chance with Phil, I have to do everything that pleases him, anything that will bring back full trust.


    I want him to love me like he used to and trust me without doubt.


    I want to be transparent and straight forward in my ways.


    I don¡¯t want any little lies or big one like I used to do.


    I want if I tell him that a particr thing is white, when he checks it will exactly like I said it.


    As of Jerry, I still went on a date with him during then but it was just to honor his invitation and to let him know that I can¡¯t date him.


    I wanted to be very polite about it, because he was indeed a nice person who showed me love and make me feel special


    Remember how rude and untrained Danielle was ready to bring me down, trying to announce to everyone that I was from the trenches and don¡¯t deserve anything good. Jerry stood by me and with his friend, they both supported me and gave me the most expensive gift I have ever gotten.


    I appreciate him for that and it was only normal to see him face to face and exin why I can¡¯t date him in a kind way.


    He felt hurt and said he will give me more time to decide properly, but it was no use because I knew that no matter how long it takes I can¡¯t be his girlfriend.


    Aside the fact that Phil was in the picture, I don¡¯t have any feeling for Jerry and I initially wanted to give it a try, hoping with time, along the line, I will learn to love him but fortunately, Phil showed up unexpectedly and everything changed.


    Jerry stopped trying to convince me and decided to move on.


    Is over six months now and I have never be this happy


    I¡¯m already in school, big private University like one of those rich kids.


    Phil gave me the best like he promised and has gotten everything I needed for school


    He even took me shopping and I got more new wears despite the loads of clothes in my wardrobe that I¡¯m yet to even wear.


    ¡°You are in school now April, what next? Are we still on the n..¡±


    He asked after toasting to a new life with our expensive wine


    I know exactly what he¡¯s talking about but I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m ready yet.


    ¡°Yes, is still in n but I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m really ready for such a big journey..¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to be ready April, you may never even be ready. But because is the right thing to do so you have to embark on it..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. But can I atleast finish this first semester before preparing towards the journey. I don¡¯t want to travel as a fresher, but finishing a semester will be better..¡±


    He was quiet, after sometime he nodded.


    ¡°Alright then. Focus and finish a semester, I really don¡¯t want to rush you because is your call. But I want to keep encouraging you, is very important that you go back in time and right the wrong created in the heart of your people, erase the fear and clear the doubts. So that you can as well be at peace with yourself knowing well that all is finally well..¡±


    I nodded before thanking him again.


    With those encouraging words from Phil, I was more determined than before.

 Episode 51

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    It has all been strong will, determination and  persistent for me to finally finished my first semester.


    Yes, I have nailed it and grades were good too.


    I¡¯m doing great with this University thing and the most important part is how proud Phil will be when he sees my overall results for this first semester.


    At least he will be happy that he¡¯s money is well spent.


    I¡¯m already proud of my good self because I put in so much to be able to achieve this great score.


    I feel good and can¡¯t wait to see Phil tomorrow evening


    That¡¯s when he will be driving down to pick me so that we can hang out.


    Returning from school after a long time, my apartment appears new.


    I kept looking around, wondering if it was still my apartment.


    Everything appears new, even the walls, the tiles and even the ceiling.


    I have been gone for about seven months, I stayed in school all this while, my room back in school was veryfy


    Phil makes sure of that.


    I enjoyed my stay and aside thefort, and the lecturer, the course mates were very nice, friendly and helpful.


    They teach with kindness and ready to guide and correct when there¡¯s a setback.


    It could have been a little difficult attaining this good score that I¡¯m currently holding, my present grades makes me real happy.


    I don¡¯t know how the second semester will be but looking at how this first one went by gives me confidence that the rest will be awesome.


    I breathed calmly as i unpack my bags, and after I was done unpacking, I began to clean up my apartment.


    Dusting, sweeping and washing.


    I was very tired by the time that I was done with the entire chores.


    I showered and stepped out to look for what to eat.


    I stopped at my neighbor¡¯s house to check up on her and she was very delighted to see me.


    The baby was bigpared to thest time I saw him and he had already started school


    I promised to get him a gift when I was leaving for school of which I couldn¡¯t, not because I forgot but there was no children shop around me back in school.


    I  told her that I haven¡¯t forgotten my promise to her child and I will definitely do the needful.


    I stepped out to get what to eat, maybe by tomorrow I will do proper grocery shopping.


    As I was going back home after getting the things I needed, I ran into John, he wasing over to visit his sister for the weekend


    We both began to walk back home together


    ¡°My run away girlfriend is back..¡± John saidughing.


    I chuckled a bit ¡°who¡¯s your girlfriend? Hope you aren¡¯t referring to me..¡±


    ¡°See the seriousness on your face, i was only joking before your fine rich boyfriend will send boys after me..¡±


    I chuckled again


    While John continuedContent property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°¡­ is good to see you again April, I heard you¡¯re schooling in one of the biggest University in the country. How¡¯s school treating you..¡±


    ¡°Good, infact great. I¡¯m enjoying school Life¡­¡±


    ¡°Obviously, is written all over you. Look at how fresh your skin looks and you added extra weights, especially around the waist. It¡¯s now more round and charming.. organically carved, no surgery or artificial added to it¡­¡±


    I suddenly began tough. ¡°John, please leave me alone. With this mouth of yours manydies, nurses and patients in the hospital that you work will be after you, like how ants are attracted to sugar..¡±


    ¡°Never, work is work, I don¡¯t mix it up with pleasure. But outside work, we can do as we please. Is you that I¡¯m targeting, April you¡¯re the skeleton in myboratory. Uh hahaha! I want you, especially now that you¡¯re looking hotter than fire. Who wouldn¡¯t k! ll just to have you..¡±


    ¡°Thanks for thepliments John, is good to see you too¡­¡± I said, trying to dismiss him as we approach the gate.


    ¡°Can Ie over and visitter? He asked


    ¡°No.. no, my boyfriend will be around. You remember thest time he saw you at my ce, war broke out and I wouldn¡¯t want the second war to happen again..¡±


    ¡°That your fine rich boyfriend is a jealous lover indeed. Alright, I will see you whenever you¡¯re outside, at least I have all through the weekend, is being a while I saw my sister. About three months, that¡¯s why I insisted in visiting them after her long plea. I will get to see more of you around, that¡¯s if your fine rich boyfriend will allow you¡­¡±


    He paused and then continued.


    ¡°¡­ one of my friend, I call him Lu, he will being over to visit tomorrow, we have an event we will be attending. I told him I will be at my sister¡¯s ce and I already sent the address to him. Is a wedding ceremony of one of my guy which I would¡¯ve love if youe with us but I guess your rich boyfriend won¡¯t let you step an inch close to another man¡­¡±


    I scoffed loudly but didn¡¯t say a word.


    John continued


    ¡°¡­ you know what I said is true. Your boyfriend ced a restriction order on you, you can¡¯t go to anywhere without his permission. Another man is not allowed to love you or go out with you, look at how pretty you are, he only wants you for himself alone. Did you know that this my guy I mentioned earlier, who will be following me to a wedding ceremony, he used to have a girlfriend who¡¯s name was April, I never met her but my friend told me so much about the girl. this particr girl ditched him. She emptied his apartment and cart away with all his things¡­ including his money. He came back from work one day and met an empty house, the girl was gone like the wind, Lu said that the girl sold all his things before running back to her old lover whom she was secretly cheating on him with. Some Ladies are not to be trusted at all¡­¡±


    I turned to my apartment to go and John said again


    ¡°¡­ I know you are full of life and a very lovable, free spirited soul. Don¡¯t let your fine boyfriend cage you, or ce an embargo on you. You know, like trading restrictions in economic. You can¡¯t do nothing of your own ord untill he approves. You always wanting to please him at all times even when you know deep down you¡¯re not happy or satisfied with some of his decisions. I know he is super rich and that¡¯s the power he has over some of us that are still working our a$$ off round the clock to be able to make it too¡­¡±


    I had to interrupt him at this point.


    ¡°I¡¯m not dating Phil because he¡¯s rich, I¡¯m not without choice in my rtionship. I make decisions too which he respects and does not impose anything on me. I don¡¯t understand anything you¡¯re talking about because I can¡¯t rte to any. I¡¯m sorry to say but You don¡¯t really have what I need in a man or maybe because our mind works differently. Phil understands me and he brings out the best in me. You will get a woman some day that will cherish you but don¡¯t carry out your annoyance on my man, he is actually not your problem..¡±


    I began to walk away


    ¡°I was only looking out for you April, you¡¯re too pretty for one man to hold you down with either money or influence. I want you to be happy and free in any rtionship you find yourself. I¡¯m just a concerned friend..¡± John said behind me.


    ¡°Thanks John for your sincere concern, but I neverined to you..¡± I replied before walking into my apartment.


    Are they thinking that I¡¯m being caged in my rtionship because Phil is rich.


    That¡¯s absurd


    Phil is thest man that will do such.


    And I¡¯m d that he found reasons toe back again to me.


    I wonder how life will be for me without Phil in it.


    John mentioned his friend, Lu or something. Can¡¯t even remember the name he called him who had a girl friend that ran away with his things and went back to her secret lover.


    I can¡¯t rte to such and who knows what made the girl do such to him.


    I could have rted it to me and Louis story but theirs a huge difference.


    I don¡¯t have secret lover, I didn¡¯t empty Louis house or stole his money. I picked only what was mine and left his own properties for him without touching them.


    If I had such mind like the girl had I would have really emptied his house but even at that it wouldn¡¯t be enough for all he took from me.


    Well, life has been good to me, Louis is a past tense, I disposed everything about him into the trash can.


    I¡¯m d that


    I don¡¯t want to think or  bring up his case for any reason and pray never to see him ever again.


    Bringing back those sad memory and letting his thoughts hurts me is thest thing I want to do.


    Indeed, I¡¯m in a better ce


    Phil changed all the narrative and he brought flood light to my life.


    I can¡¯t thank him enough for that.


    John and his Lu friend, that has a girlfriend that¡¯s my name sake are less of my problem.


    John even generalized women that they¡¯re not to be trusted.


    He added that I¡¯m being caged and shouldn¡¯t let Phil¡¯s influence or money to keep me trapped.


    That was very annoying to say, yet I kept my cool and didn¡¯t react like I intend.


    I¡¯m d I maintained my dignity and walked away.


    John was only bitter because he knows clearly that he can¡¯t have me and he can¡¯t measure half of the man that Phil is.


    I look forward to seeing my Phil tomorrow, nothing else matters to me anymore.

 Episode 52

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    After the long kiss, he took my hands into his, massaged it gently, he looked at me and said the exact words that I so much longed to hear


    ¡°I¡¯m very proud of you April, you deserve a special gift for your beautiful performance and I will definitely get you one and if you keep up like this, trust me you will be getting gifts from me at all time¡­¡±


    I love gifts, especiallying from Phil, it¡¯s always outstanding.


    It has been a great time out with Phil and I enjoyed everything about this evening.


    He picked me up like it was agreed on, took me to one finest foreign restaurant where we get to eat some continental meals.


    After which we drove to a sit out steak joint, we were served with a cooked, garnished potatoes and a well marinated steak.


    I thought we will be going home from there, but Phil was not done spoiling me with food.


    We went to a cocktail port to have a drink and stayed for over an hour talking andughing like new lovers.


    As evening approached, I thought we were finally heading home but he drove me to a sea food kitchen, where all manners of sea food were prepared


    The food presentations were outstanding, it came in a round mudded local te


    The whole new way that we were served was beautiful, the face of the sea food was beautiful to behold, seeing it alone I began to salivate, the taste was worth the packaging.


    I consumed it all dly within few minutes


    By the time we left, I was too filled up.


    It feels like I won¡¯t be able to eat any other thing for days but I doubt it, this will onlyst for tonight, by morning I¡¯m sure hunger will wake me up.


    ¡°, I had massive fun, you overfed me Phil, if I don¡¯t watch it, I will bl?w up in no time. I¡¯m overfed, I feel really heavy I don¡¯t want to grow fatter than my actual size. I want to remain smart and beautiful for you..¡±


    He tickled me and smile while I began tough.


    ¡°I will try not to overfeed you next time. I¡¯m d you had fun and more fun are loading for you and your gifts too will be delivered. Is a beautiful thing to watch youugh, to know that you¡¯re happy and safe, the most important is to know you¡¯re mine again¡­¡±


    I blushed


    ¡°¡­ there¡¯s still matters of importance that you¡¯re forgetting.


    I rolled my eyes, trying to think what exactly he meant and what could be that important.


    ¡°¡­ we had an agreement that you will be visiting home soon, to right the wrong that was done in the past. You said after a whole semester is over, that¡¯s the only time you can go..¡±


    I heaved a heavy sigh ¡°yeah, is true¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the n? When do you n to go?


    He was still talking as we parked opposite my house gate, when the gate opened


    I can see the gate from where I sat inside the car, while Phil was backing the gate


    His main focus was me as we were talking


    John stepped out, followed by another person, a young guy who was talking to John.


    My heart doubled skipped as I saw him fully.


    Louise!


    Jesus Christ. What in God¡¯s name is he doing here.


    How did he find my ce


    That¡¯s when I remembered that he was the one John was referring to as Lu.


    So I was the April that stole everything he got and ran away with my loverContent property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    My jaw dropped as it all began to dawn on me


    How can he fabricate such lies without any iota of guilt.


    None of what he told John and maybe several others was true.


    I stared at him as they came out of the gate and began to walk down.


    Phil try to turn to see what got my attention that much, that I wasn¡¯t listening to him anymore.


    Before he will turn back, I cupped his face and gave him a kiss.


    I can¡¯t just afford him seeing  Louis


    He will think otherwise, he may think I might be seeing Louis in secret, because what better exnation do I have in defense for this?


    Howe Louis knows where I¡¯m staying? The same Louise that brought so much problem to Phil and I.


    He deceived me, stole from me, manipted me, he even try using me as a ckmail to drain Phil


    He wanted to destroy my life but I escaped before he could execute his ns.


    Louise is ev! l and shouldn¡¯t be seen around me ever again


    I don¡¯t want another problem that will make Phil to distrust me, anything that will make him not to trust me again like it happened thest time, I don¡¯t want any part of it.


    I have to do everything I can to protect this second chance I have with Phil.


    ¡°What could be the thing taking all your interest, you¡¯re not even paying attention to anything I¡¯m saying..¡±


    Phil said, not understanding my reaction.


    ¡°Nothing serious, I was just thinking it all through. Yes, I will go. By next weekend I will be on my way. let me use this week to prepare for the journey. Alright?


    He agreed.


    After spending few more minutes with him, we bid each other goodbye


    I rushed inside, as I went to refresh for the evening, I heard a knock on the door.


    I went to the door and saw John.


    ¡°Hey John..¡±


    ¡°Fine girl, I saw your rich boyfriend¡¯s car outside earlier, I know he¡¯s the one. Is he a car dealer, always changing cars¡­¡±


    ¡°Is that why you came knocking on my door?  I asked quietly


    ¡°Not at all, I wanted it to sound like apliment, I¡¯m sorry if it sounded rude or annoying. my friend and I stepped out earlier but we¡¯re back, he will be going soon and I want you to say hi to him please, hope you don¡¯t mind?  I was boasting to him that I have a pretty neighbor and he wish to say hi..¡±


    I began searching for the right excuse but couldn¡¯t think of any at that moment.

 Episode 53

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°Well, tell your friend that your neighbor is not interested in saying hi. I¡¯m busy John and iste, you shouldn¡¯te knocking on my door at this time, you know I¡¯m in a rtionship and like you observed, my man do not like other men around me, especially a neighbor who wouldn¡¯t let me be..¡±


    ¡°April! That¡¯s ridiculous thing to say about me. Are we fighting¡­ I thought we¡¯re cool. The things I yfully said earlier, I already apologized, what¡¯s the problem then? I only wanted you to meet my friend because I have praised you too much to him and he¡¯s eager to meet you in person. I can¡¯t figure out where all of this ising from, I meant no harm and respect you and your man, don¡¯t misunderstood me..¡±


    I yawned tiredly as I pretend like I was really tired and sleepy


    ¡°I had a long day and need to go to bed. We¡¯re cool John, but I¡¯m not going to meet your friend because of how you boasted to him about me. Tell him that I¡¯m very tired and not interested in meeting him. Yes, say that to him¡­ you have my permission..¡±


    He stared at me in disbelief


    ¡°¡­ Goodnight John..¡±


    I moved back and closed the door right in his front


    Whenever he gets tired of standing by the door he will walk away.


    How can I even meet the same man that I have been running away from?


    Louise almost crippled my dream and rendered my life useless


    But God sent Phil again, he gave me another chance to be loved again like never before.


    Louise can¡¯te from nowhere to ruin my life again


    That¡¯s not even possible.


    This time, I will make sure that he pays, he will be put in his ce


    I silently hope that he won¡¯t bring another misunderstanding between Phil and I


    I went into the bathroom to freshen up so that I can finally go to bed.


    I was still in the bathroom when I started hearing another knock on the door


    Who could be knocking again at this time.


    It should be around 9:30pm.


    I hope it wasn¡¯t John, it can¡¯t be John because I dismissed him overnight 30 minutes ago.


    Wait, is it Louis?


    No way, he wouldn¡¯t daree knocking on my door.


    Beside he didn¡¯t see me, I was the one that saw him


    Who exactly is knocking on my door at this odd hour.


    I began to hurry up from the bathroom as each of the knock went from quiet knocking l to loud and then it became intense.


    I came out finally, wore a night robe before heading to the door.


    ¡°Who is there..¡± I asked worried and scared.


    ¡°Is me and my friend.. Louise..¡± John said


    I paused as I peeped through the door hole to see for myself.


    I saw them standing beside each other.


    I was not only worried but scared and confused on what next to do.


    What exactly do they want from me?


    Did Louis figured out that I¡¯m the one,?


    John must have described me to him and said so many things that made him came to my door so that he can see and confirm if I¡¯m the one or not, he can finally finish me from where he stopped.


    I cleared my throat, I tried to remove every trace of f¨¦ar in my voice


    ¡°What do you and your friend want.. John?


    I asked loudly and boldly


    Deep down I was afraid but I refused to act like I feel.


    ¡°Well, he wishes to meet you in person..¡±


    ¡°Who wish to meet me in person and what for? I asked, even though I already know the answer to the question I still had to ask.


    ¡°I mean my friend. He said your voice and the way I described you is simr to that of his girlfriend..¡±


    I almost open the door and give him a p.


    What girlfriend is he talking about


    ¡°His girlfriend, I¡¯m not sure your friend knows what he¡¯s saying. He¡¯s probably confused..¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    No reply came immediately but after few seconds Louise spoke with his frog, ¨±gly voice


    ¡°We¡¯re sorry to disturb, I just wish to see your face that¡¯s all. Your name is April and from what my friend here said about you, it fits perfectly to that of my girlfriend that I have been wanting to see for a very long time now. She disappeared without a trace and I have been searching to make sure that she¡¯s okay and maybe she will return back to me¡­ if possible..¡±


    I punched the wall hard, as I imagined the wall to be Louise.


    He really has guts to open his mouth and say such rubbish!


    The fo¨®lish guy is still referring to me as his girlfriend


    What a sh¨¢me.


    This time I will use everything I have to give him the taste of his own medicine.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you must be a terrible human for your girlfriend to disappear without a trace. If she wants to be found, she could have returned¡­¡±


    I paused and then continue


    ¡°¡­ But.. no problem, I will be out in the morning, you can finally see my face and check if I have any resemnce with your supposed girlfriend. It will be a good thing if you can sleep over at John¡¯s ce ore here in the morning because I may be leaving early. After then, I¡¯m sure you will keep a clear distance from me. Your st¨²pid self wouldn¡¯t daree close to me ever again after our encounter tomorrow morning¡­¡±


    ¡°April, what came over you tonight huh! My friend here mean no harm, he politely wanted to get to know you. None of this requires ins¨²lt and is very childish of you to be insulting him. He never ins¨¹lted you or said anything b¨¡d here..¡± John said, Louise mumbled something that I couldn¡¯t hear.


    ¡°We¡¯re done here John, please get away from my veranda with that friend of yours. I have told your friend what he needs to do. So, goodnight and see you two tomorrow..¡±


    No word was heard as I listen to the sound of their legs walking away


    ¡°¡­ She sound suspecious, which will make me want to be here as early as possible. She¡¯s very rude ..¡± I heard Louise said to his friend


    ¡°Is your runaway girlfriend also rude like this..? John asked.


    I didn¡¯t hear exactly what Louise replied.


    I walked back inside and called Phil.


    I just had to let him know, calling to inform him is because I know the whole thing was beyond me.


    He was unstable that night after I finished speaking to him, he kept calling me non-stop.


    He said I should have informed him immediately I noticed that he was around.


    He even wanted toe that night to arrest Louise and take me away from thatpound but I told him it was alreadyte


    Phil promised toe very early in the morning with some police men.


    Louise will finally be locked up, I can¡¯t wait


    I hope he he will be around by morning to see not only me but to see me with my man, Phil and also the police men that will handcuff and whisk him away


    I¡¯m sure Phil will make sure Louise write that he will never be found an inch close to me again


    Until tomorrow, let¡¯s wait and see his reaction when he will finally see me.

 Episode 54

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°Where¡¯s your friend, I ask you again..?


    One of the police questioned John that early morning


    ¡°Officer, what is going on, I have the right to know what is happening and what exactly is my friend¡¯s off¨¥nse..¡±


    ¡°You will know everything about your friend when we get to the station¡­¡± The first officer said


    ¡°You¡¯re equally a suspect in this investigation, so you¡¯ve to keep shut and answer only the question that you¡¯re asked and if at the end of the investigation we discover you are also in the game, then you will be cooling your a$s in cell..¡± the second police officer said


    ¡°All of you can¡¯t threaten me. I¡¯m innocent and my friend too is innocent. He only visited me after which he left. Thisdy here is my neighbor..¡±


    He pointed towards me as I stood few feets away from him


    ¡°¡­ April, did I do anything wr?ng? I¡¯m a medical practitioner and like you know, Ie visiting my sister often and on and have never being on any crime te. I¡¯m a good andw abiding citizen of this country and I don¡¯t move with vag¨¢b¨®nds. Ask my sister, she will tell you things about me?


    He pointed towards his sister who was standing close to him


    If not that his sister¡¯s husband leaves for work early, he would have also tell the police to ask the sister¡¯s husband about him.


    ¡°All this your long story is not what we asked you. Where is your friend..?


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. He was here yesterday andter left¡­¡±


    He looked towards me as Phil who was on phone outside walked in to join me.


    ¡°¡­ wait, April did you ask your boyfriend to call the police because of what happened yesterday night? You didn¡¯t evene outside and my friend didn¡¯t even get to see you. We never said anything b¨¡d to you except when I cautioned you for being too harsh with words. What exactly is the reason for inviting the police..?


    Just then Louise walked in


    He startled when he first saw the police.


    His focus was on John and the men in uniform standing beside him.


    He actually came to see if I¡¯m the real April that he¡¯s being searching for.


    I asked him toe today¡¯s morning and he did


    Louise was really determined in meeting me


    Unknown to him that I deliberately set a trap for him and knowing how gullible he was, he fo?lishly walked into the trap


    ¡°.. oh! thank goodness, my friend is here. He will testify to everything that happened. He never said anything to April or h¨¹rt her in anyway. He was with me all through the time that he was here. She was even the one ins¨²lting us. I don¡¯t understand why she will send her rich boyfriend to call the police on us¡­¡±


    Louise blinked severally when he finally saw me standing beside Phil.


    ¡°April!


    ¡°.. April is really you..? He asked looking lost and confused.


    He stared at me


    ¡°You¡¯re Mr Louise right? One of the police man asked him


    He didn¡¯t reply immediately


    He looked from the police man in front of him to John


    ¡°¡­ John, what¡¯s going on?


    ¡°I can¡¯t exin it guy, I¡¯m equally surprise just as you are. The police came knocking this morning at my door, asking for you¡­¡± John was interrupted by another police beside him


    ¡°We don¡¯t have time for all this back and forth. Are you Louise?


    ¡°Yes! He finally said


    ¡°Is obvious you know Miss April, how did you get to know her?


    ¡°She used to be my girlfriend butter ran away after emptying my entire apartment while I was away. I have been searching for her ever since and very surprised that she has been hiding in here after renting another apartment. It was through my friend, after he described his female neighbor that I became suspicious and wanted to meet her and that was why I came this morning¡­¡±


    ¡°Is a good thing you came. Can you prove any of this things you just said? Do you have evidence. Maybe even the stolen items can be traced and you will provide a receipt of every stolen thing..¡±


    He opened his mouth and closed, I guess he was caught unaware


    ¡°Officer, is over two years, I can¡¯t possibly have a receipt or anything to prove it. But if you search her apartment then you will definitely see alot of my stuffs, except sheter sold it all.. April is very smart..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d you know that Louise..¡± I couldn¡¯t keep mute anymore


    ¡°¡­ every item I picked from your apartment is all mine. I bought them and when I saw an escape route, I left with my things. You stole my money.. over a million, you molested me, harassed and wanted to turn me into your d¨®g as you revealed that you will invite other men to sleep with me while you collect the money¡­


    ¡°Officer, he illegally kidnapped her and turned her into a ve without a choice¡­¡± Phil added to my surprise.


    He continued from where I stopped


    ¡°¡­ officer, this man here forcefully kidnapped April, he wanted to turn her into a s3x ve and not only that, he also n to use her into duping people after he stole all the money she worked for which was over two million. He stopped every means ofmunication for her and also try to use her to ckmail me after he saw that I was interested in her. He told me that he was her cousin but they were not even rted in anyway. He lied to me so that I will loosed interest in her and after he seeded, he decided to make her life more miserable than it was, he wanted to start making more money out of her and the only means he can think off was to turn her body into market for other men like him. He did alot of ill things and after April managed escaped, he¡¯s been looking for means to get her back to the w?rst nightmare he initially put her through¡­¡±


    I was enjoying everything that Phil was saying.


    Is a real prove that Phil will remain my backbone of support.


    ¡°Thanks Phil..¡± I couldn¡¯t help but say to him


    Everything he said was not far from the truth.


    ¡°They¡¯re lying against my guy, I have known him for about six months and I can clearly tell you that Louise isn¡¯t like that. He¡¯s a gentleman and everydy¡¯s dream. None of what they said here is true, I¡¯m surprised at the smooth way they lie, this is outrageous. I never knew April is like this, so terrible. She left him when things were a bit tough for my guy, just toe be with her rich boyfriend. That¡¯s how g¨­lddigers behaves. My guy told me everything..¡±


    ¡°But he failed to tell you everything you just heard us say, he only told you what he wanted you to know. Very soon you will find out who among us is the real gold digg¨¦r..¡± I replied John almost immediately he was done talking.


    Louise chuckled


    ¡°I did none of what they just said. I¡¯m a good citizen,w abiding and straight forward. I have never supported any form of violence and will never h¨¹rt a woman. John, my friend can testify to that. April and her boyfriend do not like me obviously and they will say anything possible to make me look ev! l while they appear good..¡±


    ¡°Alright everyone have spoken, we have heard both sides, the only difference is that April here has provided evidence of everything and want the case to be charged to court and there you will be tried and persecuted ording to the level of your offense¡­¡± One of the officer said.


    ¡°What evidence are you talking about officer. I never did any of what she or her boyfriend said..¡±Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°She worked for more than a year and you asked that her sry be sent to your bank ount because you believe she was your personal property and she has no right to her money..¡±


    ¡°Officer, I never said that. I told her that I was saving it for her school. Instead of spending extravagantly, I decided to help her save..¡±


    ¡°You were helping her save yet you never gave her a dime out of the money or get a single school form for her. you wanted to use her as a ckmailing bait so that you can get millions and thetest car from me, you made me believe that April was rted to you. You never allowed hermunicate to her family after you brought her to this city, where she have no one or a choice of her own than to dance to your every tone. You did not only molested her, you threatened her Life until she found means to run away..¡± Phil said as I sensed his anger rising.


    ¡°¡­ can you d¨¦ny any of this. You were looking for April after she ran off on you, so that she won¡¯t expose you and she used to be one of your means of making money. If she hustle, you will spend it on other women and then abuse her. You are do?m Louise. There¡¯s enough evidence and witnesses..¡±


    Phil added.


    ¡°Is any of this true guy? John queried Louise


    ¡°Not totally John, they¡¯re lying against me.


    ¡°, You¡¯re in for it Louise because you are going to pay April fifty million for all the abuse, damages, mental break down and all the money you stole from her if not then you will remain in prison for a very long time and soon enough, your dear friend here who is obviously into the same game as you, he kept running his mouth of how much he knows you.. he too will be joining you in there¡­¡± Phil said


    ¡°¡­ Officer, please take him out of my sight¡­¡± Phil concluded


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I was calling him my friend earlier, I don¡¯t want anything about him to be attached to me. I¡¯m not sure is up-to four months that we met. So, I thought I know him enough but I obviouse that i don¡¯t. My apologies please, April.. I¡¯m sorry..¡± John pleaded while Louise was also begging at one end as the police held him.


    ¡°You referred to her as a g?ld digg¨¦r, you judged and condemned her before everyone just because your friend said some Sh! t about her. you won¡¯t go free, just like that. I will make sure of that..¡± Phil said to John


    Cecilia, John¡¯s sister started pleading on his behalf


    I know Phil want to give John a little scare before releasing him but as for Louise, he walked right into his judgement


    He could have stayed hidden or remain out of my way but his ego got the best of him and now he will be having a whole lot to chew


    Phil won¡¯t let him go without little torture and I¡¯m totally in support.


    The police whisked Louise and John away despite their plea


    Phil said I will be changing apartment and I¡¯m in for it.


    By next week I should be on my way to see my people, just like is being agreed with Phil.


    Until then, I want to watch the police deal with Louise until he shed sorrowful tears and offcourse I will be there with a joyfulughter on my face.


    He thinks he was untouchable and can get away with anything he did to me.


    His sins found him out, he will no longer be a threat to my life and happiness.


    I¡¯m happy that I spoke to Phil, he got me in a way bi never expect.


    JUST A LITTLE SIN

 Episode 55

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I went with Phil to the police station after two weeks


    I wanted to see how Louise was enjoying his new cell


    John was also going to be freed that week


    He had spent two weeks and his sister kept pleading, asking me to forgive so that his brother can be free.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I told her that it wasn¡¯t in my power, John was very fast in jumping into conclusion and defending a crimi??l like Louis


    He got what he deserved and I¡¯m sure that he had also learnt his lesson.


    I told Cecil not to fright, John will return home to her.


    They just wanted to teach him a little lesson, maybe next time he won¡¯t be fast with his tongue


    John waster released after two weeks and just within this period he has gone down drastically in size.


    I guess is because of f¨¦ar, unrest and troubling feeling thates with being in a police cell.


    He wasn¡¯t really beaten but they must¡¯ve punished him in another way.


    The lesson was well thought.


    moving forward, he will be more focused in Life and try not to interfer in people¡¯s afair that doesn¡¯t concen him.


    Visiting Louis in cell was to know if he was having the best moments of his life


    The police brought him out and I saw he was only on his undies.


    His ribs were begining to show off and he had dark patches on both his face and arms.


    His left eye was swollen to the size of a small tangerine


    The right eye has a blood shot on the white part of the ball.


    He appeared as if he has been in cell for more than a year already with the way he was looking.


    Is just two weeks and he looks unrecognizable, I wondered how he will look if he stays for more weeks.


    ¡°Are you enjoy your new home? Phil asked him


    He tried to say something but no sound came out


    He had tears gathered up in his eyes as he quickly bite his lips in regret before he quickly looked away.


    ¡°He asked you a question Louis, are you enjoying your new home..? I asked with a hard voice


    ¡°No..¡± he quietly replied


    I rolled my eyes, pretending like I was really angry


    ¡°No? no what..? You¡¯re still very disrespectful. I don¡¯t think you want to leave here anytime soon. I said, throwing off my face to another direction.


    ¡°, No ma¡¯am, no sir. There¡¯s absolutely nothing to enjoy here. I regretted everything I put you through, every of my b¨¡d behavior towards you April, I didn¡¯t know better but now I do¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have any right to look me in the eyes, you need to be trembling in fear because you don¡¯t know the next thing that I¡¯m cooking for you. The real regret will set in by the time I¡¯m through with you¡­¡±


    ¡°Please,  ma¡¯am¡­ April please. Forgive me, I¡¯m truly sorry and wish I could go back in time and right every wr?ng. I¡¯m going to drop d¨¦?d if I stay in here another day, I may notst a night in that cell¡­¡±


    ¡°So do you have the money? I mentioned that you will pay April 50 million for everything you took from her, all the danger you put her through, the trauma, mental breakdown and emotional damages you caused in her life. Without the money you¡¯re not getting out of here anytime soon..¡± Phil asked


    ¡°I don¡¯t have it sir, I don¡¯t even have up to a million in my bank ount. You can check if you doubt me. I initially had a million plus but I paid my rentst month, there¡¯s nothing much left with me again..¡±


    Phil chuckled quietly and said


    ¡°April used to be the one enriching your pocket, she worked so hard for a whole year plus and you took all her money. You d?c¨¦ived her that you¡¯re saving it but it was all a lie. Well, is unfortunate because you¡¯re still going to produce that money. The only good that can do for you is for you to pay lesser amount, instead of 50 million, you can pay 20 million instead. That¡¯s fair enough and  I believe that is also affordable now for you..¡±


    ¡°No sir.. please, I don¡¯t have anything aside what I just told you. I¡¯m not lying. You go and do check on my bank ount. I¡¯m trying to be very truthful here sir, I don¡¯t want to hide anything so that I don¡¯t get into more trouble. I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m deeply in regret of my actions. You and April should find it in your hearts to forgive¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey¡­. you didn¡¯t do anything to me. Is April you should be asking for her forgiveness not me. But obviously, you¡¯re not sorry, you¡¯re just ying the victim and acting as usual..¡±


    ¡°I am sir. I meant every word and i can prove how sorry I am in any other easier way aside this drastic measures that¡¯s carried out on me..¡±


    ¡°Shhuu shhuut up! what¡¯s drastic about putting you in cell and giving you a little beaten? You¡¯re only acting sorry because you¡¯re at our mercy. You¡¯re not really sorry Louis, you¡¯re a good actor and wouldn¡¯t be sorry if you weren¡¯t caught. Please, stop with the ¡°sir or ma¡¯m¡±, I detest the sudden fake respect. I will let April decideter on what exactly she want to do with you. But be certain that you have a long time to spend in here..¡±


    He was pleading as we walked out of there but we didn¡¯t pay him any attention.


    The next on my agenda was the long awaited journey.


    I got ready to travel home.


    My bag were set that weekend as Phil nned to take me to the airport.


    I wanted to travel by road since I haven¡¯t being on an arone before and don¡¯t know how the oue will be.


    But Phil insisted that it was stress free and morefortable


    That once I arrive at the airport, there will be taxis that will convey me straight to my destination.


    I agreed because it indeed sounded stress free and I wanted to experience being on an airne for the first time.


    I asked him what we were going to do with Louis since he was still in police.


    He said if I return back we will decide on letting him go but he should remain there for now.


    I don¡¯t intend staying long on this journey.


    School will be resuming in two weeks,


    I have only one week to spend back home that¡¯s if everything goes well.


    He booked my flight ticket and everything necessary for my traveling and was around that early morning to drive me to the airport.


    I sincerely don¡¯t know how to exin the way I feel about this whole traveling thing


    I¡¯m scared of the oue and don¡¯t know the kind of wee or dejection I¡¯m going to get.


    But since my mind is totally made up and Phil is really on it, he wants me to go back home and right every wr?ng, I just have to do this.


    I hope it won¡¯t be scandalous


    Louis will remain in police custody until I return back


    Until then, he should continue with his cell punishment.


    I hope the oue of my journey bring smile and not sadness.


    Is about five years already, is really a long time.


    Everything have changed


    I have dreaded this journey but I can¡¯t run from my past


    Is time to face it.

 Episode 56

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    As a cab man drove me down, I was busy reminiscing over the past.


    There was alot going through my mind and my heart beat was racing with speed.


    I was feeling tense, not a little bit kind of tension, alot of it.


    I described the ce the cab man will drop me and it was not too far from my house gate.


    When he stopped at the ce, I was reluctant to get down.


    ¡°Madam, is it not this ce again you want to get down..?


    ¡°Uhmm, is here.. I will get down, please give me a minute..¡±


    My phone began to ring.


    Thanks goodness, it was Phil.


    He asked me if I was home and I told him that I was almost home.


    It was just a walk down.


    I told him I was ufortable and don¡¯t know what the oue will be


    He said I should go and find out. I have taken the right step and already home


    If my people didn¡¯t want me again then I shoulde back to him.


    He will never turn his back on me.


    The call from Phil helped me get hold of myself a bit.


    I try to calm my racing heart as I walked out of the car and went to the boot to pick up my dre con designer traveling box.


    Is a very portable bag, it doesn¡¯t look like a huge luxury but is worth alot.


    All thanks to Phil who never stops pampering me with good things.


    I paid the cab man and began walking towards my family house which was few feet away.


    The whole ce was looking new


    The house have even been repainted and look finer.


    I got to the gate, the small gate was not open which was unusual.


    I knocked and in no time, there was a male voice asking who was there,


    He opened the small space on the gate and peep through before opening the gate.


    ¡± Good day, who are you..? He asked.


    ¡°Oh! I¡¯m.. I¡¯m April..¡± I can¡¯t think of a better way of introducing myself to the mean looking security guard on uniform.


    ¡°Who are you here to see..?


    ¡°The people living here..¡± I replied


    He stared at me with questions written all over him.


    I wondered why my parents decided to get a security on the gate and why will they employ a mean looking one.


    This must be my dad¡¯s idea, he thought putting a man like this on the gate will scare off Intruders.


    ¡°¡­ my people live here, I¡¯m a member of the family..¡± even though I sounded st¨²p¨ªd in my own ears, but I just wanted to go face my major fear without all this obstruction.


    ¡°Are you rted to my boss or my madam..¡±? he asked looking at me suspici?usly.


    Well, is understandable that he didn¡¯t know that the are both my parents.


    ¡°The two of them, your boss and madam are my biological parents. Please let me through, I need to go in. As you can see I¡¯m not a threat of any sort and shouldn¡¯t be questioned like a crimi??l.. this is my house..¡±


    He gave a short sarcasticughter


    ¡°Is not possible youngdy. Madam and my boss can¡¯t be your parents. They¡¯re too young to have someone like you as a child. You could have said their rtives, maybe a sister or cousin but not a daughter. I can¡¯t let you in because you¡¯re lying¡­¡±


    This guard doesn¡¯t know what he¡¯s talking about.


    I¡¯m even the third child, he doesn¡¯t know that I have two either brothers and one is married and lives outside the country.


    My parents probably are looking more younger and fresher than before because I see no reason why the security will feel my parents are not big enough to have me as daughter.


    ¡°Go and tell them that April, their daughter is at the gate first.


    If they say they don¡¯t know me, then I will walk away¡­¡±This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    ¡°¡­ as you can see I¡¯ming from a long journey, I need to get some rest. I will wait here..¡±


    He looked at me all over again before going back inside.


    I waited outside and after few minutes he came back and said that his madam  said she doesn¡¯t know me and they¡¯re not expecting any rtive.


    I gasped out in fear


    How can they deny knowing me.


    Where do I go from here now.


    This whole thing was my fear.


    The man walked back inside leaving me standing outside the gate.


    I stood there for several minutes thinking of what to do


    I decided to call Phil.


    ¡± Hey pretty, how did it go? I presume that it didn¡¯t go as b¨¡d as you thought right..?


    ¡°It was even w?rst Phil. They denied knowing me, they said they don¡¯t have any daughter, or rtive named April. I¡¯m still standing here, thinking of what to do next. You know I told you this kind of thing will happen, my fears were legit, you gave me the courage toe here and now I feel w?rst. I¡¯m in regret, I wish I never embarked on this journey..¡± I sobbed quietly


    I wiped off the tears clouding my eyes.


    ¡°Rx.. calm down first, hold on April, who told you that they don¡¯t know you.. your Mom or Dad?


    I began to narrate everything that transpired between the security and I.


    Phil asked me to go back and demand to see my parents or siblings face to face.


    I told him I don¡¯t have that right to demand for anything and I¡¯m not going back there


    The humiliation is too much, let me save myself from further embarrassment.


    Phil asked me to go check into a hotel and get enough rest but the following day, I should return back and ask to see my parents personally.


    I went to look for a hotel, I was directed to one but I don¡¯t like the ce.


    Another cab man took me to one in the main town.


    After checking two more, I finally checked into one.


    I didn¡¯t have appetit for food


    I felt so heartbroken and disorganized


    I spoke to Phil most part of the evening and night.


    Early the following day, it was a weekend.


    I didn¡¯t get up early untill the hotel room service workers came to clean the room and I told them that they can do the cleaningter.


    I return to bed and decided to see if I can sleep a little more.


    In no time I dozed off but another knock woke me up


    They brought in breakfast which I said they should bring for me by 9am


    They kept to time and after getting the breakfast, I freshened up, take my breakfast and get ready to check out.


    I left in a cab after speaking with Phil.


    I went back to my parents house.


    The mean security guy was not happy to see me and when I requested to see my people he refused to let me in.


    I wasn¡¯t going to give up


    I stood and kept asking him nicely


    He said the owner of house said they don¡¯t know me.


    I just wanted to see them and let them say so to my face then I will feel convinced and know how to move on.


    I was standing by the gate when a car drove and stopped right in front of me.


    The security opened the gate wide, as I looked inside thepound, a whole lot of things have changed


    I can see flowers nted all around


    Carpet grass and a small bicycle by the door.


    The entire house have been repainted and it really looks good.


    I began to wonder if I was at the right ce.


    If not that i spent my first 16 years in this house and know our house like the back of my palm, I could have doubted.


    I would have assumed that I was in the wr?ng address.


    The young man in the car greeted me


    I don¡¯t know him and is not one of my rtives.


    Maybe he¡¯s looking for my brother Mark


    Or could it be for Rachel my sister.


    He was really a good looking young man with a nice ent.


    He asked the security what was going on and he quickly narrated it in brief to him.


    ¡°Hi, you¡¯re probably looking for the people that used to leave here before. This property was sold to my brother three years ago, the upants no longer stay here. My brother who got married two years ago and wee a sontest year lives here with his family..¡±


    ¡°Woah, are you serious..? I was sh?cked at what I just heard.


    My parents sold their house. My Dad built this ce and we all grew up here. Why will he sell the house.


    ¡°Yea, The people you¡¯re asking to see are no longer living here. They¡¯ve moved..¡±


    ¡°Moved to where? Why will they sell..? I have so many question.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know where they¡¯re move to. I heard one of their kid went missing all of a sudden and after a year of the incident, they decided to move.


    I was speechless.


    ¡°Uhmm..¡±


    ¡°Are you alright? He asked


    ¡°Yes, yes.. I¡¯m fine. I will be on my way now. Thank you..¡±


    As I turned to leave he asked me to wait


    ¡± I guess you¡¯ve not been around for a long time and also have not beenmunicating with them. You probably don¡¯t know your way around here. Let me drive you around if you don¡¯t mind. Is weekend and I don¡¯t have anything important on my te. That¡¯s if is okay with you..¡±


    As I opened my mouth to reply, he interrupted


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m Dennis by the way¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m April..¡± I replied quietly


    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful. Pardon me but you¡¯re really pretty¡­¡±


    ¡°Thanks..¡± I managed to say.


    I admire the fact that he is cool and nice, just like Phil


    And he doesn¡¯t appear like a fl¨ªrt.


    My concern is finding my people and if he can help me out in that area, it will be great.


    I will appreciate any help I get in locating my people.

 Episode 57

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°Any luck..? I asked impatiently


    He shakes his head in response


    None of the neighbors have been able to give us any positive reply yet.


    Denis and I have gone round the neighborhood and we even have to do it separately so that we will be able to cover up more houses but so far, no one knows where my parents moved to.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Some after introducing myself, they became surprise and start throwing different questions


    Asking me where the kidnappers took me to, how did I escape, why I changed so much within few years.


    They said I was a small girl thest time they saw me and now I¡¯m a thick Madam.


    I did not only grow more tall, I grew bigger too, they said.


    I even started wearing a face mask and sses when the whole questions and onlookers where getting too much.


    Denis said I looked suspicious with the mask.


    I had to remove it.


    I remember some of my parents pals, brothers friends and Rachel¡¯s too


    One out of many might have heard something


    Denis drove me to their shops and houses.


    I will first of all introduce myself before asking of my people.


    They will leave the second question and focus mainly on the first


    I was asked all manners of things, even where the kidnappers kept me and what they were feeding me all the years that made me look so fine and fresh.


    One woman even asked if I was being abused while under the custody of the kidnappers because my br¨¦ast size is  big for my age.


    She mentioned that her daughter is same age with me and her own br¨¦ast is small and she still have lots of learning and growing to do but I look overgrown already.


    After going around with no positive feedback, I had three people in mind before I can retire for the day.


    It was the second person who used to be my family friend.


    The man has a big thrift store where my parents used to sometimes shop for us.


    He runs the shop along side his wife


    When I stepped in, the wife who was the first person that saw me, obviously didn¡¯t recognize me.


    She assumed that I was a customer, greeted me respectively and asked me what I wanted to buy with smile written all over her face after probably weighing my worth from my outfit.


    My parents calls him Mario.


    Immediately Mario turned and saw me, he seems so surprised and told his wife that I was the missing daughter of James.


    I was surprised that he even recognized me, he was the only one that have been able to identify who I was just by first nce.


    ¡°You have a striking resemnce with your father, is your younger sister that looks so much like your Mom. I recognize people easily and can dictate a thief just by a mare look¡­¡±


    I smile and greeted him.


    ¡°When did you return, your parents no longer live in this area or you came visiting someone..?


    ¡°No sir, I thought they were still here..¡±


    ¡°Which means you¡¯ve not even seen them. But where have you been, the news was that you were kidnapped or probably ran away with a man..¡± Mario¡¯s wife said


    She continued immediately


    ¡°¡­ you girls of this day are always desperate to move in with a man. Your Mom mentioned that you dropped a small written note but she refused to tell us the whole details. My instinct tells me you were not kidnapped rather you ran away because you felt too big to be under your parents..¡±


    ¡°¡­ Look at how big you¡¯re just within few years, looking like you¡¯ve reach twenty five or even thirty years when you¡¯re just a small girl. Or were you into hookup, I mean did the kidnappers gave you extra pampering while making money out of you. Your looks speaks opposite of suffering, far opposite of being kidnapped. The rumors is that you were kidnapped but those who stays in the kidnappers den appears pitiful, mentally and emotionally broken. But you look like you were enjoying yourself there, looking all fresh and bing a ssy big girl. Just look at how fresh your skin is, your expensive handbag and designers cloth. you¡¯re looking real good that¡¯s why I have my doubts¡­ anything is possible in this case and..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough..¡± Mario interrupted his wife


    ¡°.. you know she was kidnapped and we should be happy and thank God that she¡¯s free now. My friend, James is a disciplined man, him and his wife raised all their children well. You can¡¯t be saying that kind of thing in front of her. No empathy or humane in your choice of words. You really don¡¯t know what she has been through..¡±


    He turned to me and apologies on his wife behalf.


    I told him that I was trying to locate my parents, if he has any idea of where they moved to


    He said he has but is a long drive from his shop


    He said is only my Mom that changed her number recently but my Dad is still using his old mobile number and also the new one.


    He told me how to locate the ce and also gave me my Dad¡¯s  contact.


    Before I left, he asked me to wait a minute as he went around, packaged some thrift wears for both my Dad and Mom.


    He gave me another separate bag and said that was for me.


    His wife said she doesn¡¯t think I wear thrift, he shouldn¡¯t have given me because I¡¯m going to dispose it or turn it into rag.


    Looking at the expensive designer cloth and bag I was putting on, she already knows my type of girl.


    ¡°Let her do whatever she like with it, is hers to do as she pleases..¡± Mario replied her.


    I thanked him and his wife who also apologized for her precious statement but I know deep down she only wanted to please her husband


    She didn¡¯t mean it and I didn¡¯t care.


    As I turned to leave, I saw Denising inside.


    He had been waiting outside in his car.


    He must have been wondering what was taking me so long and decided toe and check me.


    Mario¡¯s wife thought he was a customer and greeted him kindly as she asked him what he will like to buy.


    I told her that we were together and started walking away with Denise after he greeted them


    Mario said I shouldn¡¯t forget to extend his greetings to my Dad.


    Immediately he was done talking, I heard his wife say something like a whisper to him.


    ¡°Maybe That¡¯s the guy she ran away to meet or maybe he¡¯s the one that she el?ped with, this girl was not kidnapped. I told you she¡¯s looking too good for someone like that ¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop talking nons¨¦nse..¡± Mario said out loudly.


    I stepped out and straight into Denis car.


    I wondered what my parents will also be thinking with my sudden disappearance.


    I remember dropping a note that I was leaving because I can no longer endure the way that I was been treated.


    Even if my Mom went about worrying and telling everyone that cares that i was kidnapped


    I doubt it if my Dad even care


    They decided to move on to a different location because they knew I may probably return.


    I was seventeen when I left


    I felt strongly convinced that I no longer want to stay and be treated like a garbage in my house.


    If not for Phil, I would have been looking worst than a sick patient.


    None of the people¡¯s gossip really matters and does not affect me in anyway


    Atleast I know where to find my parents, that will be my next stop by tomorrow


    Let me return back to my hotel, rx think and speak with Phil


    By tomorrow, I will start my journey to my parents house.


    Whatever the oue maybe, I think I¡¯m ready to face it.

 Episode 58

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    Denis called immediately I was about going into the bathroom to take a bath after the long day.


    He asked if I was already in bed and I told him that I was just about stepping into the shower


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s great then. Just called to check up. I¡¯m d we were able to make a good progress today..¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m relieved atleast..¡±


    ¡°Should I drive you down to meet your parents tomorrow¡­?


    ¡°That¡¯s not a good idea, I will love to go alone, I don¡¯t want to create another wrong idea in their minds..¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand me, I¡¯m not going to go in with you April, I just want to make your journey easier by driving you down. Maybe dropping you close by and leave immediately¡­¡±


    ¡°Thanks Denis but I want to go alone. I appreciate your help so far. I don¡¯t need any further assistance in getting to my parents, is something I will love to do all by myself..¡±


    ¡°Alright, no problem. Please don¡¯t forget to call whenever you need a friend. Hope you don¡¯t mind if I still call in the morning to check up and maybeter in the evening to know how the reunion went.¡±


    ¡°No problem..¡±


    ¡°Let me allow you go take your shower, tho I don¡¯t mind staying all night long talking with you. I don¡¯t know why I feel so much attracted to you, like ever since I set eyes on you, all I can think of is you and is not just because of your beauty, probably your personality and good spirit, that¡¯s your aura. You¡¯re like every man¡¯s dream. I understand we just met and you don¡¯t really know much about me, I bet you that in no time, you will know everything about me and I hope you will give me a good chance of friendship¡­¡±


    ¡°Uhmm Denis, I¡¯m in a rtionship and..¡±


    Denis quickly interrupted before I can say another thing


    ¡°I know April, you¡¯re too beautiful and well trained to be single. Of course I know that you must be in a rtionship. I¡¯m not asking you to leave your man, I¡¯m only asking to be just a friend. Although, I wish I¡¯m the lucky guy but I respect you and your rtionship and will try to register that in my mind. Hmm! I¡¯m talking too much right, let me allow you to go freshen up¡­¡±


    ¡°Goodnight Denis..¡±


    ¡°Good night pretty..¡±


    The call ended, I went into the bathroom took a long bath.


    I saw Phil¡¯s miss call when I stepped out of the bathroom.


    I nned to call himter when I¡¯m through with everything and fill him in on how my day went and share the good news of finally getting the address to my parents new house.


    I had a light dinner which I ordered from the hotel menu.


    Immediate I finished changing from my bathrobe, which I initially had on, I changed into one of my night wear.


    I released a satisfying breath as I slipped my legs under the duvet, ready to talk with the only man of my dream.


    Phil called just when I was about to pick up my phone to call him.


    Perfect timing, we¡¯re connected both physically and spiritually. I thought to myself and smile.


    ¡°Hey.. my love..¡± I said excitedly immediately I answered the call


    ¡°How was your day¡­¡± He asked coldly.


    ¡°My day was really good. I¡¯m going to fill you in bit by bit..¡±


    ¡°Good! I have been calling but no response from you, you got me worried April. There¡¯s a time I try but your line was busy¡­¡±


    Before he will finish, I interrupted


    ¡°Yes, that must be the time I was talking with Denis on the phone..¡± I said to him without thinking.


    ¡°Denis?? Who¡¯s Denis..¡±


    ¡°Uhh! Denis is a friend, he was the one driving me around and assisting me with the search today until I found my parents location..¡±


    ¡°Really! A friend, a childhood friend or some back in the hood friend that you used to have before leaving..?


    ¡°Not at all, I just met him yesterday at our former house, his brother lives there with his wife, Denis decided to help me out after we met and he has been the one driving me around since today¡­¡±


    Phil became quiet at the other end.


    ¡°¡­ hello Phil, are you still there..?


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here. I¡¯m just trying to digest what you just said April, you mean that you¡¯re confidently moving about with a man that you just met? You don¡¯t even know him before now, he only offered to help and you epted without a blink¡­¡±


    He was begining to sound like he was angry but trying to get hold over himself.


    ¡°Phil, I mentioned that Denis brother lives in our sold house and¡­¡±Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°And so what..? He cut in


    ¡°¡­ April, I don¡¯t have issue if he used to be your friend back then before you ran away from the house, my problem now is that your Denis is a random stranger, somebody you just met. He decided to drive you around and got you so engaged today that you didn¡¯t even remember to call, I was too upied today but kept looking out for your call after I called you twice and you said  no positive response yet. unlike you, no call from you all through, even after you finally seeded in getting your people¡¯s address, I thought I suppose to know first but you never called and when I decided to callter this evening, you¡¯re either not picking or on a call with Denis¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re over thinking things Phil. most part of the day, I was really busy going from ce to ce in search of my parents. I was hoping to update you this evening. I¡¯m sorry that I missed your call earlier or didn¡¯t call you back during the day. But Denis is really no big deal..¡±


    ¡°Oh wow! His no big deal yet he was with you all through the day and as if that wasn¡¯t enough, he¡¯s on phone with you this night and you probably wouldn¡¯t have called me if I didn¡¯t call..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true, I was about calling you when yours came in..¡± I replied getting irritated with the whole thing


    ¡°Let me guess, he¡¯s driving you to your parents ce tomorrow right..?


    ¡°Phil, you¡¯re getting unnecessary work up with this whole thing. Denis actually offered but I turned it down and he¡¯s aware that I¡¯m in a rtionship. There¡¯s no string attach, he¡¯s just somebody wanting to..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough¡­¡± He cut in.


    ¡°¡­ since you said I¡¯m getting unnecessarily work up with this whole Denis issue is better we drop it then. I¡¯m happy that you were able to get the address finally. So you will be going over tomorrow..? He suddenly said with a calm tune


    ¡°Yes, tomorrow morning I will take a cab to the ce¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright then, good luck with that and goodnight too..¡±


    Just like that, the call ended.


    I was irritated with the whole talk about Denis and is a good thing he decided to drop it off atst.


    I went to bed feeling exhausted with the whole event of that day.


    In the morning, I got up early, prayed, got ready and before I left I decided to call Phil.


    He didn¡¯t pick up.


    I picked up my things and went to check out from the hotel.


    I was still at the reception when Denis called me.


    I didn¡¯t pick at first, it was mainly because of him i had misunderstanding with Philst night and now he wasn¡¯t even taking my calls.


    I will try as much as possible to avoid him.


    I don¡¯t want further problem.


    Denis called for the second time, I cut the call


    It was the third time I decided to pick up


    ¡°Hello April, good morning.. hope you slept well..?


    ¡°Good morning Denis. sure, my night was good..¡±


    ¡°Is everything okay, you¡¯re ending my calls..¡±


    ¡°Everything is fine, just busy here..¡±


    ¡°, Okay, I¡¯m sorry to bother you. I just wanted to check up and know if you¡¯ve left or you changed your mind and want me toe and take you instead..¡±


    I was annoyed with his disturbance.


    ¡°I already told you yesterday that I¡¯m fine and don¡¯t need you to drive me. I thought I was clear enough? Please Denis, can we please keep this casual, I don¡¯t want the unnecessary closeness or inquisitiveness with my private life¡­¡±


    ¡°Ok.. okay April, calm down, I was only trying to be a friend and help out when you need me. I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯m pushing too hard. I didn¡¯t mean to get you offen..


    A sudden vibration from my phone shows that somebody was trying to reach me.


    I quickly checked and it was Phil.


    Without thinking twice I ended Denis call while he was still talking and answered Phil.


    ¡°I was in the bathroom when you called earlier. Are you set to leave¡­? He asked calmly after exchange of greetings.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m at the reception, I just checked out of the hotel..¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­ good. Is Denis there to pick you? I guess he was the one you were speaking on the phone earlier when I try reaching you..¡±


    I was speechless with the whole attitudeing from Phil.


    ¡°Denis only called to check up and I ended his call immediately I saw your iing call signal. I told you that I will be taking a ca¡­¡±


    ¡°Never mind..¡± he interrupted


    ¡°¡­ Just take care..¡± he said and ended the call.


    I sighed out loudly


    Picked up my bag and left to get a cab.


    Today is a big day for me, I don¡¯t know how it will all turn out.


    As I woke up this morning, I knelt down and prayed that God will go before me and make me find favor with my parents.


    My heart is racing and I feel really tensed


    Phil¡¯s recent actions is worsening the whole situation for me.


    I got into a cab and off I went to locate my people.


    No matter how this meeting turns out today, I¡¯m d I made this decision.


    I¡¯m moving ahead with whatever situation meeting them will bring my way.


    I will think about Philter, what upies my mind right now is majorly what the oue of this my journey will be.

 Episode 59

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I walked into thepound, is smaller than expected.


    There¡¯s no security guard at the gate and thepound and house appears smallpared to our old house.


    No car packed, my Dad used to have his long time blue BMW


    And is always parked within ourpound back then


    But no bicycle, no car and nothing fanciful about the house, not even flowers.


    I¡¯m not sure I¡¯m in the right address


    Mario must have given me the wrong address


    The thought of my parents and siblings living in this kind of ce makes me feel a little ufortable.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    I thought when they sold their house, they nned moving into somewhere bigger


    Thepound is very neat and there¡¯s a beach resting chair outside the door right in front of me.


    Could this be part of the d?sg¨²ise, maybe they thought that buying a smaller house will make people not to put too much interest in them.


    This could be my mom¡¯s idea, maybe she thought whatever that took me will note back if they make few changes to their lives.


    But I had my doubt, if this is even my parents ce


    I breathed in and was about to walk up to the door and knock when somebody walked into the gate.


    I quickly turned to check.


    It was a young woman, holding lunch bags with two kids in uniform.


    She obviously went to pick them up from from school.


    I don¡¯t recognized her, this only means I¡¯m in the wrong house.


    I said it, I was in doubt that this can¡¯t be the house my people moved too.


    They can¡¯t go from ¡°veryfortable¡± to a lower standard.


    Why will Mario give me the wrong address,? so I will have to go back to him for the right address?


    This is too much unexpected tr?uble for me.


    I stepped down and greeted her.


    Is mid afternoon and the sun was scotching.


    ¡°Yes, good afternoon¡­ can I help you..? She asked


    ¡°Probably! I was given the wrong address. I was searching for somebody and the address I had led me here..¡±


    ¡°Oh! Sorry about that. Are you from around here?


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not really from here..¡±


    ¡°Okay, your face kind of looks like Mr James, your facial physique. He¡¯s the tenant that lives in this front apartment with his wife..¡±


    She pointed towards the house facing us.


    ¡°Wait, did you say his name is James..?


    ¡°Yes, we call him Mr James. His an elderly man, not so friendly though but he¡¯s nice. Everyone keeps to their business in thispound. I live behind the main house, at the mini apartment with my family and there¡¯s another tenant at the back too. Mr James and his wife upies this front apartment..¡±


    ¡°Wow.! I exim loudly.


    ¡°¡­ the person I¡¯m searching for, his name is also James but not too elderly. What of his children..?


    ¡°You should go ahead and knock, he may end up being the one. Beside, you have some resemnce with them. I hardly see his children, Maybe once in a long while. I think he has only two and can¡¯t tell anything about them..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great then, thank you! You¡¯re very helpful. My name is April..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Lydia. Take care and good luck..¡±


    She and the kids walked away, I watched as they passed through a small passage way, at one side of thepound.


    Her daughter looked back and waved at me, I smile and waved back at her.


    I guess the small passage way will lead them to their own apartment which she said is at the back of thepound.


    I breathed in slowly and exhale out quietly.


    Could Lydia be right, that the tenants living here are my people?


    Tenant? Why will my parents sell their house only to be tenants in this ce, this house that¡¯s not even up to the standard of their sold property.


    That¡¯s ridiculous


    I doubt if the upants are even my parents. Is not possible.


    Coincidentally, the man¡¯s name is James and we kind of share resemnces, that¡¯s ording to Lydia


    It¡¯s all a coincidence and deep down, I¡¯m prepared to start throwing another apology at whoever that lives here.


    After knocking and theye out, I will as usual apologize for disturbing them and let them know that is a wrong address.


    I need to hurry up so that I can return back to Mario and let him know that is a wrong house.


    I forgot to collect his mobile number that day, I could have called him right away.


    I¡¯m just a bit worried about his wife that will start essing me from head to toe, to know the worth of my attire.


    I gasped out rapidly.


    I felt really nervous as I climbed up the few steps that leads to the front door.


    I raised my hand to knock but immediately drops it back, i breathed in again and then out


    I need to get myself together and focus.


    I decided to wear a ck shade, I don¡¯t know why I thought of using an eye ss,


    I guess is to disguise and to get my confidence back.


    I raised a hand to knock again after another long breath and immediately, the door swings open.


    ¡°Yes?? Who are you¡­?


    ¡°¡­ we noticed that somebody have been standing here, in the front door and feeling reluctant to knock. Who¡¯re you¡­?


    He asked again with a frown, it seems he was in the middle of something and I just distracted him


    He was acting impatient, I guess he wanted to go back to whatever he was doing before I interrupted.


    I n¨¦ver thought anyone could see me.


    The door was made with metallic products and ss.


    They must have seen my shadow standing at the door.


    I watched the wrinkled line on his face with grey hair lined up on his trimmed mustache and also on the short hair on his head


    I was standing face to face with my Dad.


    This feels so unreal, I don¡¯t really know how to react


    I felt frozen to the spot as I watched him.


    The changes is too much for me to take in


    My Dad has aged so sudden. Just five years interval and he aged this much.


    He looks like he was in histe seventies but I know my Dad should be in his sixty¡¯s


    I guess sixty seven years.


    He still maintained his trade mark look of short hair and well trimmed bears.


    Except that he slimed down and appears more aged than normal.


    Every other thing is still the same with him.


    ¡°¡­ Young woman, who do you say that you are here to see? I have things doing inside and don¡¯t have all day to w?ste..¡±


    He paused all of a sudden and looked at me closely this time.


    ¡°¡­ Apri!.. April? is that you..?


    ¡°Dad¡­ is me..¡± I replied quietly.


    He looks confused as I gently removed my ck shade from my face, it was indeed like a d?sg¨²ise but I guess my Dad still figured out that I¡¯m the one.


    ¡°April!..¡± his voice breaks as he called my name again while looking at me straight in the eyes.


    His face was expressionless


    I can¡¯t really tell if he¡¯s happy or sad.


    This is too emotional than I ever thought.


    Seeing my Dad after all this years, makes me want to burst into a loud cry but I blinked back t?ars severally as I stood before him


    Awaiting judgement of either condemn¨¢tion or eptance.

 Episode 60

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    He looked me over again, gasped and said


    ¡°You¡­ you look gigantic..¡±


    That wasn¡¯t what I was expecting but it was a great relief


    I giggled a little


    ¡°I can¡¯t say the same about you Pa..¡±


    Pa used to be the name I call him when I was a little girl.


    I dropped it off during my teenage days and started calling him Dad like every normal person.


    He managed to smile as he opened his arms


    ¡°Wee home April, my prodigal daughter..¡± he chuckled as he said that.


    I rushed into the awaiting arm


    It was far easier than I thought.


    He led me inside


    ¡°April is home¡­¡±


    He said quietly into the empty house.


    Obviously there¡¯s no one at home because the entire house looks so des¨¦rted and lonely.


    I saw picture frames on the wall of the sitting room, just like it used to be in our old house.


    I saw my parents picture, me and my brothers.


    My picture was actually there


    It was not taken ?ff despite I went missing.


    Seeing my innocent childhood and teenage picture I became so emotional.


    ¡°Where¡¯s everyone¡­¡±? I said quietly looking around the entire sitting room.


    My Mom, business woman must be out as usual


    I wonder when she will return


    I can¡¯t wait to see her.


    The inside house painting looks dull and strange.


    Apart from the chairs, TV and dining table there was nothing else attractive.


    The inside house was so stuffy and a bit dark.


    No enough venttion


    Only one window was open.


    No air conditioner, no standing or even a ceiling fan


    How do they surv?ve in this kind of ce with little air?


    I was sweating all over in no time because I easily get sweaty.


    My Dad walked into a door that seem like a kitchen, he took water in a stic cup and went to a closed that from my guess, is the bedroom but a bit dark.


    I wish my Mom cane back now, I so much look forward to seeing her again.


    My Dad came to join me in the sitting room


    He managed to smile as he sat in the next sofa close to mine.


    ¡°Dad¡­ I went to our house searching for you all and was told it has been sold..¡±


    I paused and continued


    ¡°¡­ i went asking around until I visited Mario, your friend. He was the one that gave me the right address finally. Not many people knows of your whereabouts.. I guess you choose not to tell anyone..¡±


    He breathed deeply before gasing out.


    ¡°I.. I can¡¯t still believe that this is you. I¡¯m trying to wrap my head around this whole thing..¡±


    ¡°Is me Dad. You may call me the prodigal daughter, that¡¯s actually who I am. I found my way back and you can¡¯t start imagining what has happened this past years¡­¡±


    He nodded as he heaved.


    I needed to keep talking to keep the mood warm


    My Dad wasn¡¯t saying much.


    I guess he was indeed shock


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Dad that¡­!


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t know where to start apologising from Dad, I¡¯m back and I regret my teenage decision of ever leaving home. But if I¡¯m to be sincere, I did not totally regret everything, although my life was exposed to danger but it also opened room for me to meet a great and caring man.. Phil. Philip is a kind man and he took care of me when my life was in disarray¡­¡±


    ¡°Philip..? My Dad asked and I quickly nodded.


    ¡°¡­ He¡¯s the same guy that you took off with..?


    Before I could say anything my Dad continued immediately


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m d that you were in a safe hand. We searched everywhere, involved different police. They promised to find you or the guy but nothing was heard. At the bakery where you used to work, they described the guy that usuallye over to check you but no one knows anything about him. The day you left, somebody saw you getting into his car with your backpack and they described the car to the police but they still couldnt track it down. Every searched proved abortive. We put up your picture on social media, paste on the streets and road, different organisation and worship centers were also informed in case they see you anywhere, they should try and call the number on the flyer¡­¡±


    He coughed out, heaved again


    ¡°¡­ No one had any useful information about you. We supposed to move from the house earlier than we did but we waited and kept hoping you will return but after two years no sign, we decided to leave..¡±


    ¡°¡­ your Mom saw the short note you left. You mentioned that you can no longer take in the ill treatment we melted out to you¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ April, i realized that we were a bit shrewd without even knowing it. All I wanted was for my first daughter to have the best upbringing. Maybe we went hard on that without even realizing. I can¡¯t start exining how much your disappearance has caused us. Is a good thing that you found yourself home. Although you look way bigger than I envisage, I was not expecting this huge transformation. What have you been eating or what did the Phil guy fed you that made you so big¡­¡± He said and this time, he managed tough out.


    I joined him in theughter.


    ¡°.. i know you¡¯ve a whole lot of things to tell us but we can always catch upter..¡±


    ¡°Yes Dad, a whole lot and the guy I took ?ff with is Louis. Phil is a good samirithan who saved me. There¡¯s a whole lot to tell.. maybeter like you said¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ Where¡¯s Mom, I can¡¯t wait for her to return. What of David, Mark and Rachel.. where¡¯s Rachel? I guess she¡¯s in school now¡­¡±


    I didn¡¯t wait for his reply, and went on talking


    ¡°¡­ Dad.. I¡¯m sincerely sorry that I caused you and Mom so much pain to the extent you¡¯ve really gone down in size. You sold your house Dad, all because of me. You moved to a rented apartment, inside here is s¨´ff?c¨¢ting because of the little airing in. this is far from your kind of house. You like space,fortable and enough air offcourse. I¡¯m sorry for everything that you and Mom went through because of me¡­¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t sell the house because of you April, rather because of your Mom¡­¡± My Dad said as he stood and asked me to follow him.


    I was still trying to understand what he meant as I followed him to the room he previously took a cup of water to.Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    I carefully walked in and stood close to the door.


    A window was open and the second one was closed.


    The breeze blow gently, flying the light white curtain around.


    The room was a little bit scanty, I saw a drip poll standing close to the bedside with a drip on it.


    There¡¯s a trash can close by, the trash in it looks like packs of drugs and tissue paper.


    I looked over at the bed and noticed there was somebody there.


    The cup of water my Dad took in earlier was on a table close to the bed.


    The figure was looking all bone and skinny.


    The head was wrapped up with a scarf.


    My Dad stood watching whoever the person with so much pain in his eyes.


    ¡°Dad¡­ who¡¯s there..? I asked like a whisper while still standing close to the door and stretching my neck to see if I can really recognize the person at all.


    Dad urged me to move closer.


    I did, I stood beside him but still couldn¡¯t recognize whoever the person was.


    It was a female obviously, so skinny that I can trace out her skeleton bones from the nighty hanging loosely on her body.


    There were so many medicine container lined up on the cupboard  close to the bedside.


    Almost everything was close to the bedside


    I guess why is so is because whoever  the sick person is, she can easily stretch her hand and get whatever she wants


    ¡°¡­ Dad..?


    I became scared that I had to look away.


    ¡°Your Mom..¡± he said quietly without turning to look at me.


    ¡°what do you mean my Mom? I queried as I looked at the unrecognizable sick person on the bed.


    ¡°¡­ No.. no way, Is not possible. This can¡¯t be Mom..¡± I said covering my mouth with my hand to avoid screaming.


    ¡°¡­ this can¡¯t be Mom. How¡­ what happened. This is impossible, you¡¯re joking right¡­¡± I said still trying to avoid the sleeping skinny figure on the bed.


    ¡°Your Mom has cancer. Is three years now April. The sickness is traveling with speed¡­ with no mercy it beat her hard. We¡¯ve spent almost everything we have yet the sickness do not want to let go. She has seen too much suffering but we¡¯re not giving up on this¡­¡±


    I couldn¡¯t stand any longer


    I rushed out of the room, I couldn¡¯t believe what I just heard and saw.


    Is this some sort of expensive joke


    It can¡¯t be true.


    I heard her coughing hard and long.


    I peeked through from the open door.


    Her entire body shakes with each cough.


    My Dad took out some drugs with the cup of water, he moved it closer to her mouth.


    She calmed down after the drugs and rxed back on the bed.


    I walked to the sitting room.


    This whole thing is way too much for me to take in.


    ¡°God ..!


    I eximed quietly as I wiped off a tear rolling down my face.

 Episode 61

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    ¡°Hey.. Mom, is me.. is me April. I¡¯m home..¡± I quietly said while bending over to her, with her frail, skeleton bonny hands in mine.


    I try to smile as I battled with tears clouding my eyes.


    She turned to look at me, her lips curved in the other direction, I assumed she was trying to smile.


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m home Mom. Please hang in there, you¡¯re going toe out of this. I may not know how but I know you will


    She said some inaudible words that sounded like gibberish to me


    ¡°¡­ Mom, do you recognize me. Is April¡­ your daughter. I¡¯m home..¡± I repeated while tapping her hand gently


    She closed her eyes, opened again before looking straight at me


    But it appears she was lost, her eyes seems to be focused on me but her mind was far.


    ¡°She can¡¯t remember you now April..¡± my Dad said while standing by the door


    ¡°¡­ she suffered memory losstest year as the sickness advanced and can hardly remember anyone.


    ¡°Oh my God!!¡±


    ¡°¡­ is there nothing we can do to help her apart from she lying hopelessly on this bed with all this uncountable drugs and tubes..¡±


    My Dad was quiet for sometime. ¡°There is only one thing left to do and it cost a fortune, this process is fifty fifty which means she may or may not make it..¡±


    ¡°Atleast we can try. Even if her chance of surviving is slim, let¡¯s still give it a shot. I believe she will survive this Dad because God has n¨¦ver failed me and he won¡¯t start now..¡±


    My Dad led me out to the living room


    ¡°April, I know you want to see your Mom get better but you won¡¯t understand when I tell you all the stages, different things, best hospitals, drugs and different special therapist that have tried, administered and that have attended to your mother. She got a little better earlyst year but after two months, she fall back again and it became even w?rst. I can¡¯t start exining it all¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­. your brother David had contributed to making sure she gets better. He got family too you know. He said if she cane over to the US, from there she will be transferred to India where he will get the best specialist that can attend to her case. All hope is not lost and even though the stage she¡¯s in is critical but we can only hope. The only issue right now is how to fly her out of this country right away. Money is the major pr?blem now, Alot of millions is required. Your brother with all he has spent so far, he said he needed to gather up a bit. We should give him to next month end. I hope it won¡¯t be too l¨¢te by then. I don¡¯t know where to borrow from to get her out of here immediately. Her health has eaten deeply into everyone¡¯s pocket. I have virtually sold my properties and every valuable I got just for this same sickness that has refused to go¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ I must confess that right now, I¡¯m exhausted from it all. I don¡¯t even know what to do anymore. The doctor that¡¯s assigned to her,es three times every week to administer treatment and check her up and he¡¯s being paid monthly¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ the doctor will be here tomorrow again. Mark is building up his engineering career but he still contribute whenever he has. Your sister Rachel is in school and will be rounding up next year. It has not been easy over here as you can see and the worse is that your Mom can¡¯t remember anything. Dementia,ck of appetite added up to the cancer..¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m sorry that you came back to all this. We¡¯re supposed to gather as a family, rejoicing over your return, celebrating together as a family that after all this years, God brought you home to us. Is something to truly rejoice over. I wouldn¡¯t say is wrong timing, I¡¯m deeply grateful to God that I can look at the face of my daughter once again..¡±


    He looked at me and began to smile broadly.


    ¡°¡­ I haven¡¯t been able to smile in a long while. I can¡¯t even remember whenst I smile like I did today after seeing you and still doing because is like a dream. Is a big relief, one part of my heart is rejoicing to your homeing and the other part hopes for a miracle over your Mom¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­. She¡¯s been my strength and back bone all this years. We¡¯ve been through so much together and just when thend was getting greener, cmity struck. I¡¯m not giving up hope on her yet. I¡¯m not very religious man, but deep down I believe in God and havee to seek him more often during this past terrible years. After your disappearance and your mom¡¯s illness, I thought God was trying to punish me for my sins. I know he¡¯s a merciful God and if he can lead you back to us, he will also bring healing to your Mom, even in d¨¨?th bed..¡±


    I nodded quietly as I wiped out tears multiple times from my face.


    After spending that evening with my Dad.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    I checked the kitchen to know if there¡¯s anything to cook.


    I left to buy things, which I prepared for my Dad and I


    My Mom has a special food which was very light, so watery.


    I watched as my Dad prepared it and also watch as he went to scoop few spoons into her mouth.


    The house wasn¡¯t very conducive for me but I managed to stay that night.


    I try to make sure I helped Dad in anyway possible


    Phil didn¡¯t call until in the night when I was getting ready for bed and was nning to call him too


    I told him that I was finally home.


    He asked how it feels like to be back home to my people, I told him it feels good but it would have been better if my Mom was well.


    He wanted to know what happened to her and i updated him


    While during that I broke down and weep again


    The burden was too heavy for me just in one night.


    I can¡¯t even imagine how it has been for my Dad and siblings who saw her draining off every stage, all this years


    Phil said he wish he could help in taking her out of the state to get the treatment she needed in another country


    I told Phil that it was 50-50 anyway. She may probably not survive it but I¡¯m hopeful.


    He said he invested arge sum into a business and the turn up will be by next year, that¡¯s why he can¡¯t help out as much as he really wanted to do.


    Taking her to US and from there to India will cost lots of millions and what if at the end she couldn¡¯t make it


    I thought within me.


    However, Phil said he needed to speak to his father first


    He will give me feedback the following day.


    I thanked him before the call ended but I had my doubts.


    Since Phil couldn¡¯t do anything due to his investment, I¡¯m not sure he¡¯s Dad will want to do that.


    That¡¯s like charity work that may probably still go down in drain if my Mom didn¡¯t get better.


    Denister called as I was in a deep thought since I couldn¡¯t sleep.


    I told him that I was home, he seems excited and wanted me to gist him how it all seems.


    I told him there¡¯s nothing special though, if my Mom wasn¡¯t sick maybe it would have been more exciting.


    Denis also wanted to know what happened and told him of the cancer stage.


    I also let him know of the huge amount involved for her to leave the country.


    He promised to help but wanted me toe visit him the next day so that we can talk better.


    The promises was too quickie and suspicious but I was ready to give it a try.


    Maybe I will wait for Phil to give me a feedback first before going to see Denis tomorrow.

 Episode 62

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I didn¡¯t know that my Dad called Rachel and Mark, he informed them that I was around but they didn¡¯t believe it.


    They said they will only believe if they see me with their eyes.


    And they were left breathless when they finally saw me.


    ¡°Jesus Christ..¡± is this really you April? Mark eximed with his eyes opened wide.


    I nodded with a smile because my own emotions was ch¨®king me real hard.


    I have cried most part of the night because of my Mom, I didn¡¯t want to cry again.


    ¡°You look different April, I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m looking at you live. I was afr¨¢id that I will never see you again..¡± Rachel said calmly while trying to keep her distance.


    Rachel has really turned into a very pretty girl, she can passed for a model.


    Pretty face, slender body with hips, her body figure is so beautifully carved, her long athletic legs can¡¯t be unnoticed.


    Mark rushed up before I can say anything and threw his arms around me in a very tight hug.


    ¡°Try not to squeeze life out of her..¡± my Dad said to Mark with a joking tone


    Mark loosened up and I can see him struggling with his emotions as he tries to blink back t?ars


    ¡°You¡¯re trying to be tough guy huh!? I said while blinking back t?ars.


    ¡°I can¡¯t help it sis, I so much miss you. This are tears of joy..¡± he said as he wiped off his eyes.


    Rachel quickly wiped out something from her face too but I saw her even though she did not want anyone seeing her doin that.


    ¡°¡­ Wee home April. I don¡¯t care about the circumstances behind your disappearance in the first ce, the search and so many troubles we¡¯ve been through ever since. All that matters to me¡­ to us is that April is home..¡±


    He threw his arms again around me but more gentle this time around.


    Rachel maintained her distance.


    ¡°¡­ You¡¯ve seen Mom right..? I know it must be very devasting..¡± Mark said.


    I breathed in with a nod.


    I was too emotional to speak.


    ¡°.. let me check up on her..¡± Mark said as he started moving towards mom¡¯s end with Dad.


    ¡°Hey.. are you alright? I asked a quiet Rachel


    She heaved a sigh ¡°not really..¡±


    ¡°Is it because of Mom? I¡¯m trying to see if there¡¯s a positive way for here. It most be super hard for everyone, for years now and I was just here for a day and still finding it hard to digest it all in. I¡¯m positive that miracle will happen on her behalf..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m positive too April but after all this years, I don¡¯t know if miracle can save her. I¡¯m used to Mom¡¯s illness and is not because of her that I feel so sad,¡±


    ¡°¡­ don¡¯t get me wrong April. I¡¯m very happy, seeing and knowing that you¡¯re alright. I know I was the reason you left the house and ever since, I have fought with guilt, I wasn¡¯t really the junior sister you wish to have..¡±


    ¡°No.. you maybe a pain in my neck back then.. asionally offcourse but it feels good to have a sister..¡±


    She manages tough


    ¡°I know you¡¯re trying to cheer me up April. I regret everything and wish I could go back in time and be there for you and with you Like is expected from little sisters rather than causing trouble and getting you into Mom and Dad¡¯s bad book all the time. I know they prioritized my needs above yours and I¡¯m sure they did it ignorantly because I wanted all the attention and care. I¡¯m sorry April.. I was st?p¨ªd and f??lish. It was toote when I realized it and have lived with regrets ever since..¡±


    ¡°Is all good Rachel,e here..¡±


    She took few steps and walked towards me ¡°can you forgive me? She said as tears settled below her eye lid.


    ¡°Offcourse Rachel. I can forgive you anything.. is all in the past now and I¡¯m so happy to finally be home and meet you and Mark, Dad and also Mom despite her current situation. Is a relief to be back..¡±


    I drew her into an embrace and we remain that way for a while.


    She didn¡¯t loosen up and I wasn¡¯t ready to let go.


    We remain so until Dad and Mark returned back to the sitting room.


    We sat talking before Rachel and I decided to take a walk around the neighborhood


    I told her about Phil and how he has been a God sent to me.


    We talked about things that are not so deep as she opens up to some of her own deep things that she haven¡¯t been able to share with anyone.


    Denis called me again asking me when I will being, I told him that evening.


    He asked if I will like to stay a little while so that we can talk, I told him I will but it depends on what he wants us to talk about.


    He mentioned that he just wanted to hear how it was getting home after all this while and everyone¡¯s reaction when I showed up.


    He added he likes me and wish I can be his friend, he wasn¡¯t asking for a rtionship but my friendship.


    I had to remind him of my boyfriend and also let him understand that we¡¯re just ordinary friend and he will be helping me on that ground and nothing more


    And I was going to pay him back whatever I take from him


    He said there¡¯s no pr?blem that he understands.


    I try calling Phil but he didn¡¯t pick up.


    Heter called me back that he will call meter that night


    I urgently needed financial help for the sake of my Mom.


    Since Denis is willing to help then I better not waste time going right away.


    I asked Rachel to go with me the following morning and she agreed immediately.


    We took a cab and went to see Denis.


    Denis had his own ce and that¡¯s the address he sent to me.


    When he saw Rachel and i he seems surprised.


    ¡°, I thought you will being alone, you didn¡¯t tell me that you will being around with somebody..¡±


    ¡°, Does that change anything now..¡± I asked annoyed


    He looked over at Rachel


    ¡°Nothing changed, I¡¯m d that you both came¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ Wow, your twin is really beautiful. I never knew you have a twin sister..¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not twins, she¡¯s my elder sister..¡± Rachel said as she sat in the well decorated sitting room.


    ¡°Really! This is very interesting. It¡¯s very obvious, the resemnce is strong. Wee to my home.. what¡¯s your name pretty one. ¡± Denise said as he extend a handshake to Rachel who took it before telling him her name.


    ¡°You¡¯ve a nice ce. Do you stay here alone..¡± Rachel asked him looking around the house


    ¡°I do with few of my staff. it get lonely in this big house and that¡¯s why I sometimes go over to my brother¡¯s ce and spend time with them..¡±


    He asked what he can offer us and I said I didn¡¯t want anything


    He brought a drink anyway and served us in a fancy ss cups.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry to hear about your Mom..¡± Denis said to Rachel and i


    He turned to me


    ¡°¡­ing back to such news and seeing her in that kind of state must be hard on you April. I don¡¯t know the state she¡¯s currently in but I¡¯m hoping to help in anyway possible¡­¡±


    ¡°Thank you Denis,¡± Rachel said.


    ¡°¡­ how do you intend to help us? April still believes in miracle for Mom, but I really don¡¯t know what to believe because her current health state makes us hopeless..¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t give up because miracle from God is the exact thing your family need. God wille through for her..¡±


    I was begining to like his sense of reasoning but I only nodded without a word.


    All I could imagine is my Mom getting well again


    ¡°You¡¯re a religious man right? You keep mentioning God but what if God has equally given up on Mom..¡± Rachel asked Denis


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that Rachel. God can¡¯t give up on Mom¡­¡± I said to Rachel.


    Hope is all I¡¯m holding on to, I don¡¯t want anyone to squash the tiniest hope left in me and won¡¯t want Rachel to say anything negative.


    ¡°God has your Mom in his palm and will breath his life into her again. until sickness is defeated all you have to do is to continue trusting God¡­¡± Denis saidBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°¡­ I came from a very religious home. My Dad is a Minister and my Mom is a Gospel artist. I have seen God work wonder in the lives of people, I have witnessed so many miracle and have also been saved from things that could have consumed me. I grew up wanting to also be a minister but along the line, I dropped that desire to pursue a career. I believe in God and there¡¯s nothing impossible for him to do.. absolutely nothing..¡± Denis said


    ¡°I believe too. This has rekindled my faith even more. Thanks Denise..¡± I said and meant every word


    Deniseter said he won¡¯t be able to afford even half of the money but he will give what he has and maybe with a collective effort from others the money will bepleted.


    He said he actually nned to invest the money into his business but there¡¯s no greater lose than loosing a love one because of unable to pay medical bills.


    His business can always wait but saving life may not and he was helping in the ground of friendship.


    I thanked him again.


    Maybe I misinterpreted him, misunderstood where he wasing from.


    Denis wasn¡¯t that bad after all.


    I wondered why I was nursing such ideas in my mind.


    He¡¯s nothing like Louis and talking to him opens my mind to a whole new thing.


    Rachel watched him in admiration and didn¡¯t stop smiling all the while he was talking


    I begin to wonder if she was even listening to anything Denis was saying or she was just living in her own imagination.


    He sent the money into my ount after I gave him the ount details


    After seeing the alert I was speechless.


    ¡°Thank you so much Denise. This was way more than I thought.. it means a lot to me and I will definitely pay back this kindness. Even though we met not too long ago, not even up to a month and you agree to do this without wavering¡­ I deeply appreciate¡­¡±


    I hugged him for the first time.


    Rachel did too


    He decided to drop us and I watched as Rachel jumped on the front seat.


    I sat quietly at the back and was just thinking and hoping to get a good feedback from Phil so that my mom¡¯s abroad medical treatment can begin.

 Episode 63

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    I got tired of listening to her talked none stop.


    Ever since yesterday, Rachel has been talking.


    This is 4:50pm, which is already a day after meeting with Denis and yet my ear have not rested from Rachel¡¯s talk.


    Days are running, time is going for my Mom.


    She¡¯s my priority right now and not this Rachel¡¯s distraction.


    I¡¯m trying to focus.


    I spoke with Phil yesterday night and this afternoon.


    I¡¯m still waiting for his promises


    Rachel is distracting my mind


    ¡°He¡¯s hot hot, woah.. did you see his house? How do you meet all this hot rich guys, you need to teach me your tactics April..¡±


    ¡°¡­ is not like I haven¡¯t been meeting them but they always have something that turns me off¡­¡±


    .¡±.. I don¡¯t like staying in a rtionship for too long. I get bored and wille up with a quarrel that will make us break up..¡±


    ¡°¡­ seeing Denis, I¡¯m speechless because he fits perfectly into the kind of man I want..¡±


    ¡°Okay Rachel, I have heard you..¡± I replied as I return my attention to my phone.


    I was trying to chat with Phil but he said I should give him few minutes.


    I held my phone waiting for when his chat will pops up.


    I have decided not to tell him anything about Denis or the fact he gave us huge sum of money for my mum¡¯s health.


    Phil may not fully understand that Denis did it out of the kindness of his heart.


    Phil will think otherwise and I really don¡¯t want to have another misunderstanding with him because of Denis again.


    We spoke yesterday and today and he said he was going to send some money to me today.


    He said he has spoken to his Dad and collected some money from him


    He will add little from his own and send it all to me.


    I¡¯m still waiting patiently.


    Once I get the alert I will start making prepparetion with my Dad on how to move my Mom.


    ¡°You¡¯re not responding well April, do you like Denis too because I don¡¯t want to have a jeal¨®us sister brewing down my neck. I thought you said Phil is your main man and Denis is just a friend and nothing more?


    ¡°¡­ why are you not responding or excited for me that I finally meet a man that¡¯s fully qualified. Denis is handsome, rich and eloquent. I don¡¯t care about his religiousness because I¡¯m not strongly rooted in one but I can worship him as god if that will please him..¡±


    She began tough at her own joke but I paid her no heed.


    Rachel haven¡¯t really changed like I thought, she said she was a change person but her actions speaks a differentnguage.


    ¡°I¡¯m trying to focus Rachel. All I think and care about right now is Mom. I¡¯m trying to do everything I can to make sure she survives this, I can¡¯t afford to lose her. I want Mom back in good health. I will go to any length to make sure of that¡­¡±


    ¡°I understand April but it could be a waste of energy and money. We¡¯ve literally given up. Whatever the oue will be is totally fine..¡±


    ¡°Is not fine Rachel and I¡¯m not giving up and don¡¯t care if is a waste of money or time. I will do everything I must for Mom..¡±


    ¡°Are you talking out of guilt because it sounds like that. We have been here and watch as she keeps disappearing into bones, we understand clearly that is alreadyte for her, there¡¯s no hope of survival in this her story, if there is, I¡¯m sure Dad and David would have found a cure. You don¡¯t understand how much has gone down in drain. David, even with his family abroad spent so much on Mom, Dad also spent almost all he has. You just arrived few days ago and thinks Mum can bounce out of cancer and be well again..


    ¡°¡­ do you know how much have gone into her health? Dad sold our big house, his car and move to this wretched environment that i h?te so much. My school suffered, my mental health and emotions suffered.


    ¡°¡­ I can¡¯t bring my friends home or let them see my Mom. I can¡¯t afford many things I wish for or live the kind of life I have always dream off. Her sickness has caused so much pain and reduce me to a lower standard if not that I refused to show my vulnerability to anyone. Is not like I¡¯m wishing her d¨¨?th but that will be a relief for her and everyone¡¯. If she happens to d¨ªe, that burden and pain will gradually be behind us. We will move on in no time..


    ¡°¡­ she¡¯s alive yet she does not know what¡¯s happening around her. She¡¯s walking d¨¦?d, alive yet her mind, brain and the cells that supposed to keep her mind alive are already d¨¦?d. Mum doesn¡¯t know or understand anything¡­


    ¡°¡­ Before she became worst, anytime I happen to go check her, she will refer to me as April, calling me April and asking me where I have been that she missed me. I see the frown on her face whenever I say that I¡¯m not April and she should stop referring me as you. Itter became worst, she does recognize or understand anything again. Is been months I stopped going in to see her. I will just peep through the door and walk away, that¡¯s if I manage to get close¡­


    ¡°I¡¯m actually exhausted from everything and need a break, maybe a vacation abroad that can distract my mind from the traumatic experience that this whole mum¡¯s sickness has caused..¡±


    I was quietly listening to Rachel rant.


    I realized her only pain was because the situation wasn¡¯t to her favor.


    ¡°This is not about you, is about Mom and maybe if you can just leave yourself out for once, you will begin to see and understand the whole situation better ¡±


    She was just self-centered and all she cares about is herself but that¡¯s not new, that¡¯s who Rachel has always been.


    She was trying to defend her nonsense analysis of how I shouldn¡¯t attach too much emotion to Mom so that it won¡¯t affect me psychological when she¡¯s finally gone.


    I deliberately choose not to reply her.


    A message came into my phone, I quickly check, thankful for the distraction.


    It was a bank alert from Phil.


    I opened it and screamed quietly ¡°oh my goodness..¡±


    Phil has credited my ount beyond my expectation


    Phill¡¯s call came in almost immediately, it was a video call.


    ¡°Thank you so much Phil, I¡¯m speechless¡­ I don¡¯t know how to thank you for your many kindness. You keep surprising me beyond words. My God will bless you..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee my love. I just want to do everything within my power to make you happy. I cherish every of your happy moments, is very important to me and I know this few days have been tough on you, seeing your family and your Mom in such condition¡­ is terrible. I needed to do all I can to make sure she¡¯s save. I hope is not too l¨¢te¡­¡±


    ¡°No, is not. After this call I will go and meet my Dad so that we can start processing how everything will go. I will definitely keep you updated. I have so much faith and with God¡¯s help she will make it..¡±


    Rachel rush to my side and started waving at Phil


    ¡°Phil, even with God¡¯s help, Denis help and your help Mom may still not make it but April has refused to give up¡­¡±


    Rachel said, she paused and began to smile sheepishly while overshadowing herself on my phone


    ¡°.. hi Phil, you¡¯re really cute¡­¡±


    ¡°Hi..¡± Phil replied back. He seems confused


    ¡°April is that your sister..? She looks so much like you¡­¡±


    Rachel grabbed the phone from my hand


    ¡°I look better, prettier and more fun than April. Take a look at me..¡± Rachel saidughing


    She wanted it to sound like a joke but Rachel meant it indirectlyBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Phil chuckled and said


    ¡°No one is more pretty than my April. She¡¯s the most beautiful girl in the entire world. But when ites to fun, April isn¡¯t very good with that but that¡¯s okay with me..¡±


    ¡°If you say so Phil. Is good to see you.. you¡¯re cute. I can¡¯t even tell between you and Denis who¡¯s finer or why April kept having fine men to herself. I¡¯m going to snatch one of you from her..¡±


    I was giving Rachel sign not to mention Denis to Phil.


    I don¡¯t want to spoil this happy moments but she paid me no heed and continue running her mouth.


    I try to collect back my phone but she dodged.


    ¡°Denis? You know him too, how¡­ did hee visiting? Phil asked and I can dictate anger in his voice.


    ¡°No, Denis didn¡¯te, April took me to his ce. We went to his fine house and he also gave April money that he promised her for mother¡¯s health..¡±


    ¡°What..? When was that..? Phil asked


    ¡°Yesterday and he drove us back after spending time with him..¡±


    ¡°That can¡¯t be true. Please give April the phone..¡±


    Rachel try to say something else but Phil barked


    ¡°¡­ I said give April the d¨¢mn phone..¡±


    Rachel returned the phone


    My heart was racing as I looked at his ?ngry face in the video call.


    ¡°¡­ You went visiting Denise and he gave you money..? Why didn¡¯t you tell me? I spoke with youst night and even today but you never mentioned it. If not for your sister, I wouldn¡¯t have known what was going on¡­


    ¡°¡­ Why will you do that? I make sure I give you everything April. love, emotional and financial support. I always try my best to be there for you. What were you doing in Denis house? I thought you¡¯ve changed after Louise but I¡¯m totally wrong..¡±


    ¡°Is not what you think, I was afr¨¢id you will be mad at me, that¡¯s why I didn¡¯t tell you anything about Denis. I¡­ I¡­ hello.. hello Phil..¡±


    He ended the video call even before I can exin.


    (Do NOT COPY OR SHARE)

 Episode 64

    I wanted to send an apologetic message to Phil, I sat thinking of what I¡¯m going to write.


    I was heart broken and couldn¡¯t function perfectly all through that period because of Phil.


    After much thought I began to type.


    ¡°My dear Phil, my love and hero. The only man i cherished. My heart aches for you and my love for you is undying. I¡¯m sorry for my behavior or in anyway I acted out of order. Although I expectedly you to trust me enough and know what I can do and things I can¡¯t do. I understand I have a horrible past of which you¡¯re very aware of but is only a past. I can¡¯t hurt you intentionally or cheat on you with another man. No, I will never do that to you Phil, I love you with all my heart and my entire being sings of your love. I swim in the ocean of your love for me and nothing else in any other man interest me. Denise helped me with some cash because I needed as many help as I can gather up. My Mom is all I care about at this moment and she¡¯s the reason I can go to any length to seek for help. Please try to understand and trust me enough because I truly love and trust you and that¡¯s simply the truth. Denise is just been nice to me and no string attached. Denise is a nice guy and I didn¡¯t go there alone to see him, I went with Rachel, my sister. She was there and saw everything that happened. Denise didn¡¯t make any strange move on me, he was only helping me because he saw that I truly needed the help. I don¡¯t know how to exin this whole thing because I never betrayed you or cheated on you Phil. My only mistake was not telling you and is because I was afraid that you will be mad. Exactly what I feared is what that happened. If you trust me enough and not bring up my past each time there¡¯s a misunderstanding, I will never hide anything from you but because I know that you¡¯ve not really given me the benefit of doubts that¡¯s why I can¡¯t be open with you. Please Phil I¡­ I¡­¡±


    I stared at the long written apologetic note, I don¡¯t know what to input anymore and I don¡¯t want to keep typing.


    Probably I wasn¡¯t even making any sense in the letter and some of the lines I used may get him mad because I¡¯m all agitated as I type.


    I¡¯m emotionally destabilized.


    I was getting angry with the whole thing as I wonder why Phil will keep judging me with my past and never trusting me enough.


    How long  will I continue to do this, how long will I be exining myself when I did absolutely nothing wrong.


    I concluded that I wasn¡¯t going to send him any message.


    The only message he will get from me is silence.


    I deleted the messages and move to go check on my Mom.


    My Dad was out to get some things for the house.


    I took a chair and sat beside my mom¡¯s bed.


    Her condition was an eye saw but I¡¯m hanging onto hope because that¡¯s all i got.


    I started talking to her, I don¡¯t know if she hear or understand me but I kept talking anyway.


    I reminded her of the good old days, the sweet memory she might have forgotten.


    I spoke to her about the man, my Dad, that truly loves her and never stop caring for her despite how devastated her sickness made him.


    I pleaded with my Mom to fight harder and fight well to remain alive because we need her.


    I needed her and my Dad also.


    If God was kind enough to keep her alive till date, making it possible for me to meet her still breathing, the cancer did not consumed her whole, then the same God will restore her fully.


    She will not die. I refused and reject such thought because I need her.


    We¡¯ve been separated for about five years, and I can¡¯t afford to agree I won¡¯t ever hold or hear my mother call my name.


    I became so emotional that I wept so hard, I have to leave before my Dad returns back


    As I was walking out, I saw my Dading in.


    He wasn¡¯t gone for long.


    He asked if I was OK and I nodded


    I told him I was with Mom


    I spoke with my Dad for sometimes before returning back to the room


    Rachel was avoiding me but I¡¯m not even surprise or angry with her.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    My mind was literally focused on more important thing and which is my mom¡¯s health.


    That¡¯s all that matters to me.


    Not Phil and definitely not Rachel.


    I kept assuring myself that all will be well


    I don¡¯t know how but I have faith.


    Faith is all I got.

 Episode 65

    arrangement was made as quick as possible and my Mom was transported out of the country for the medical treatment.


    My Dad was so happy, he couldn¡¯t stop thanking me for being able toe up with such a huge amount of money during such a very Short period.


    We can only pray shees out of this whole again. The sickness drained her to the bone, She has being through a lot.


    ¡°Aside medical help, we need a miracle. This cancer needs to go into remission or disappear for good. Only miracle can do it..¡±


    Those were my dad¡¯s words.


    My Dad travelled with her and we speaks on phone mostly.


    Someone that¡¯s trusted is needed to be by the side of my Mom always and my Dad who has not only proven to truly love and care for her,  he has being there through all the season


    In riches, in poor, in sickness and in health.


    My Dad kept to his vow and never abandoned my Mom


    I admire this great and rare things about him.


    He¡¯s not perfect but he is a good man


    A loving husband an amazing father


    That¡¯s the kind of man I want for myself and children.


    He promised to remain on the side of my Mom until there¡¯s a miracle which he was seriously praying for.


    I don¡¯t want any man that will abandon me when I needs him the most or continuously reminding me of my past mistakes.


    I want to be with a man that will put my heart at peace.


    My heart skips anytime I¡¯m greeting male friend or chatting with one and Phil calls


    I want to be open and truthful but he makes it difficult for me to truly open up


    And now, he had barely spoken to me for over a week.


    I called him and he picked and I told him that my Mom has left the state with my Dad


    He said OK


    He didn¡¯t have much to say but i tried to keep up with the conversation although it takes two to make a good conversation but


    I don¡¯t want to lose him, I don¡¯t want him to get angry with me.


    I have avoided all the trouble that may erupt it¡¯s head but no matter how long I run I guess Phil will never trust me.


    After that day, I made up my mind to focus on my mother¡¯s pressing health issue


    I know I need Phil but I can no longer give room for the continues disrespect and usations


    I have tried to gain his trust but each time I fall short in a little way, he doesn¡¯t failed to remind me of my past or how much he can¡¯t trust me.


    I¡¯m sick and tired of it all and will no longer care.


    I didn¡¯t confront Rachael, I acted normal around her and didn¡¯t allow whatever she did to get to me.


    Sheter came to apologise


    ¡°Are you still vexing because of Phil? She asked


    ¡± vexing? Not all. Why should I? I retorted while still focusing on what I was doing.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m sorry. I never meant any harm. I was only joking and didn¡¯t know he will react that way..¡±


    ¡°Is fine Richeal¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you sure..? She asked


    ¡± hundred percent.. ¡± I replied.


    She smile and came to hug me unexpectedly


    I shrugs a little then rxed


    ¡°I saw one jumpsuit in your bag, I like it..¡±


    I was about to ask her what she was doing in my bag and how she saw the cloth, Rachael rushed to my bag and brought out three of the jump suits i had with me.


    They are the only jumpsuit I came down with


    ¡°Give me one, I prefer this one with little touch of  flower¡­¡±


    She showed me the one that she liked


    They¡¯re the shopping gift i got from Phil, and the suit with a touch of flower is also one of my favorite.


    Rachael that I know will not give up until she get what she wants.


    I told her that she can have it


    ¡°Thank you anyway, although I nned to steal it if you refuse to give it to me..¡±


    I wasn¡¯t surprise neither did i react.


    ¡°¡­. I want to go and see Dennis, he said he will be around today. I have been wanting to see him all this while but he¡¯s hardly in the house¡­¡±


    ¡°Dennis? Are you two an item now..¡± I asked.


    ¡°Well, not really. We¡¯re just friends. Hoping to be an item soon off course..¡±


    She winked at me before catwalking away.


    The following day, I got a call from my Dad informing me that everything was moving on fine.


    That was a big relief.


    I started making arrangement to travel back, I need to go back so that I can resume school.


    After two days, I got a call from Phil twice trying to act normal and to check up on me.


    I thanked him for checking up.This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.


    He wanted to say something else but ended the call instead.


    I have made up my mind on what I want and moving forward, I don¡¯t want anybody, not even Phil to determine my happiness.


    I havee to realize that anytime Phil¡¯s is mad at me, I¡¯m always angry and disorganized.


    I even lost appetite for food or anything.


    I¡¯m so much into him that I can¡¯t do anything without involving him


    I¡¯m always sacred of getting on his bad sides.


    My fear of offending him or causing rift between us makes me feel less is myself most time.


    I no longer want that, he may never stop reminding me of my past or how difficult it will be for him to trust me again.


    I need peace and be with a man that will look past my mistakes, love and trust me wholly and not remind me of my shortings each time I make a mistake.


    Phil called a night before the day I nned to leave.


    He asked me if I was OK


    I told him that I was fine, he said I wasn¡¯t responding well to him for some days now.


    He asked if it¡¯s because of Denis, if Denis is the reason for my cold attitude and silent this past week.


    He also mentioned that anytime we had misunderstandings. I always call him and try to exin things but this time around, I never did.


    I only said I was alright and cool with him. Denis wasn¡¯t the reason for anything.


    I can hear him Chuckling, but I know that¡¯s one of his ways of expressing sadness.


    He asked me when I wasing back and I told him the following day.


    He became angry again that I didn¡¯t deem it fit to let him know of my ns or traveling arrangement.


    He mentioned that I must have told Dennis about it first.


    After that he jumped to another part.


    ¡°April, you¡¯re lying to me and you know it. You¡¯re seeing Denis right?


    I was already getting irritated with him bringing Denis up each time.


    Instead of speaking, I kept quiet.


    No matter how many times I said it or try to defend myself, it will fell on a deaf ear.


    He won¡¯t still believe me or take my words serious.


    I was over it.


    ¡°¡­ Hello April, you¡¯re not saying anything. So.. is true then, you¡¯re seeing Dennis right?


    ¡± Phil, even if I tell you otherwise you won¡¯t still believe me. I have told you time without number that I don¡¯t have anything with Dennis or any other man. Hmmm! anyway, there is no point going over this again. I¡¯m really not in the mood for all this. I want to sleep..¡±


    ¡°Goodnight then..¡± He said and ended the call.


    I went to bed.


    The following morning, my brother came.


    He said I should spare a day so that he can take me round the city


    It was hard for me to resist because I haven¡¯t spend quality time with Mark.


    He was busy with work all this while and has also mentioned that he will like to introduce me to his girlfriend.


    I agreed, got ready and we left on a cab.


    Dennis called to know if I have left,  he said Rachel just told him that I was traveling today.


    I told him that I was still around.


    He asked if he cane around that day or the following day, I told him that I wasn¡¯t home and I will be traveling very early the next day.


    He said there was no problem.


    Mark introduced his girlfriend to me, she was so please to meet me and evenmended that I was so beautiful, I giggled and told her that she was equally beautiful


    Mark took us out and we had a great time.


    Phil called during the day, Mark was talking with his woman when I picked up the call.


    ¡°Where are you, that ce is a bit noisy¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I went out with¡­¡±


    ¡°With Dennis right..¡± He interrupted.


    ¡°¡­ I can even hear his voice in the background. I thought you said you will be traveling back today. I was nning to go to the airport and wait for you but wanted to know the time of your arrival first. You¡¯re just unbelievable April.. I¡¯m not surprise..¡±


    I excused myself, stepped outside


    I wanted to give Phil a piece of my mind but I don¡¯t want to do it in front of Mark and his girlfriend.


    Getting outside, I had a changed of mind.


    I just said few things instead before ending the call.


    I returned back inside, Mark asked if I was alright and I said I was feeling great.


    Weter went home.


    Early morning the following day, the honking from Denis car woke me up.


    Rachel was with him, he said he wanted to take me to either the park or airport where i will then take the ride back to base.


    I thanked him, quickly got ready, my bags were packed.


    I left


    Rachel sat in front, I was at the back as Denis drove on.


    Rachel maybe forcing herself on Dennis I can¡¯t tell what exactly they¡¯re doing.


    She passed the night at Dennis house which means is more than just ordinary friend.


    I silently hope she¡¯s not the one forcing herself on a man.


    I also hope Dennis will be sincere and not try to y along


    One can¡¯t be too sure, probably he also wants her.


    He hadmended her looks, he mentioned she has a straight model legs, her fine shape and her general appearance on that first day.


    I hope they¡¯re not ying each other.


    I¡¯m going back to my base to face my own life.

 Episode 66

    By AMAH¡¯S HEART


    It¡¯s been a rough rideing back without informing Phil


    He didn¡¯t know I was back, after two days, I decided to call and inform him and it didn¡¯t go down well


    He was angry that I came back without informing him and not only that, it was two days after I decided to tell him.


    Already, I had my own stored annoyance, courtesy of him


    I was only waiting for the right time to explode it on his face.


    I was getting ready to return back to school the next weekend


    Cecilia came visiting, she weed me and also apologized again for her brother¡¯s misbehavior


    My neighbor informed me that Louise was still in custody and haven¡¯t been released.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    John, her brother travelled after the incident and not sure of returning soon.


    I wondered why Phil decided to leave Louise in police cell even after all the weeks that went by


    I was too upied with my personal pr?blem and didn¡¯t bother to ask or know if he has been freed.


    This was contrary to Phil¡¯s words but again, Louise needed to be thought a goodsting lesson that he won¡¯t forget in a hurry.


    I assumed that Phil was only trying to extend Louise stay because he wanted him to be de?lt with, he will n¨¦ver m¨¦ss with another Lady next time.


    I was nning on how to return to school


    I still have my personal savings which can sustain me for a period of time.


    Phil drove down to my side, this was fourth day of mying back.


    He has this scary frown stered on his face as I opened the door.


    ¡°Hi..¡± I greeted


    He ignored me at first and walked past me into the house.


    He stood looking around as if he was searching for something.


    I went to have my seat, leaving him to stand and look around


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this..¡± he finally asked


    ¡°Meaning of what.? I replied forming ignorance


    ¡°I came so that you will tell me what¡¯s going on?


    ¡°Nothing is going on Phil..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it, do you listen to yourself? Look at the way you called me Phil, no single emotions attached to it..¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that your name? I have always called you Phil, what¡¯s the difference..?


    ¡°The difference is that you used to call my name with love, some sensitivity, emotions in your voice but right now, it sound so ordinary. You mind telling me what exactly is happening..¡±


    ¡°¡­ I didn¡¯t drive all the way down here to get my questions asked back to me. Do you mind telling me now what¡¯s going on..?


    I ignored him.


    ¡°¡­ is this about Denise? Is that why you¡¯re acting up. I already know the answers to the questions I asked you, I only wanted you to say it with your mouth..¡±


    ¡°¡­. Denise is the new guy now right? Wow! You never stop surprising me April. Louise is still behind bars for what he did to you and now is Denise?


    ¡°.. listen, I won¡¯t do this again with you, you want Denise then go on with him. You already made it very obvious. I don¡¯t want to be lied to or h¨¹rt ever again. I put so much emotion in this rtionship and h¨¹rt greatly each time you do things you¡¯re not supposed to do¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re adding to my stress Phil, maybe you should leave me alone¡­ let me be please¡­¡±


    ¡°What! I¡¯m adding to your stress? He asked c¨®nfused.


    ¡°Stop trying to control my life Phil, I have a choice to make too and my life doesn¡¯t evolves around you. Because you got money doesn¡¯t give you any right to talk to me anyhow. I appreciate everything you¡¯ve been doing for me but you make it seem I have to worship the ground you walked on, I can¡¯t have friends or socialize with others. I can¡¯t even live a normal life. Every step I take that¡¯s not approved by you, there will be issue¡­


    ¡°¡­ you don¡¯t trust me or give me chance to be myself. You breath down on me anytime you hear a man around me. You judged me each time with my mistakes and n¨¦ver stops reminding me that I had a past. I¡¯m tired already and no longer want to do this, I¡¯m telling you now that I have had enough. I¡¯m done Phil, I can do better with or without you. You can¡¯t continue to make my life miserable or make me unhappy each time¡­¡±


    He was quietly staring at me, he seems very surprised but I wasn¡¯t bothered.


    ¡°¡­. if you don¡¯t want to do this, then leave me the h?ll alone. Go be with your kind, just as you once did before. Moving forward, I have made up my mind not to let anything bother me and that includes you. My Mom is the major thing on my mind, finishing school and getting my life in order is exactly what I¡¯m aiming for. Stop being chaotic and causing me pain. I¡¯m tired of it all..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one causing me pain April. You¡¯re the one making me feel like I made a mistakeing back¡­¡± He finally said as he approached me.


    ¡°¡­ maybe is because I love you so much, maybe because I prioritized your happiness more than anything else. I care so much about you April. I just don¡¯t want you to make another mistake..¡±


    ¡°Another mistake? When you put it like that, it makes it seems like I deliberately fell victim to my past faults. I¡¯m tired of being reminded Phil, I have had enough thinking and made up my mind that¡­¡±


    ¡°You want to leave me? I was only trying to protect you, I try to make sure youck nothing because I don¡¯t want you to be h¨¹rt. I just don¡¯t want anyone taking advantage of your vulnerability¡­  He said on top of his voice as he interrupted.


    He took a deep breath.


    Came to sit beside me


    ¡°¡­ you¡¯re breaking up with me for what exactly, because I¡¯m concerned about you and Dennis, because I¡¯m angry you never updated me that Denise also gave you money for your mom¡¯s treatment or you traveled back without telling..? He said again moving more closer


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not breaking up with you Phil but I won¡¯t fail to walk away for the sake of my peace if things continue this way..¡±


    He gasped.


    He became quiet as he stared, while I look straight at nothing.


    There was disturbing silent.


    ¡°I¡¯m.. I¡¯m sorry. Maybe I was little bit jeal¨®us that Denis was going to take you away from me or you are going to fall for him. Or.. are you already into him?¡­¡±


    ¡°No, Denise is just a friend. He¡¯s more an item with Rachel..¡±


    ¡°Your sister, Rachael? Are you kidding me..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m serious. Rachel likes him and they¡¯ve been close. I don¡¯t have interest in Denise or any other man..¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a relief, and again when you say it like that I¡¯m tempted to ask, what of me..¡±


    I raised an eyebrow, confused


    ¡°¡­ you said you¡¯re not interested in any other man. What of me..?


    ¡°Well, except you Phil. But you really gets me upset with your behavior sometime..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I promise that I will try to curtail my jeal¨®usy and fears. I was afr¨¢id that I¡¯m gonna lose you again. I don¡¯t wish for that. I¡¯m sorry for h¨¹rting you and for my ill attitude, for reminding you of your past or using a phrase that you detest. I¡¯m sorry April for everything. I love you..¡±


    I nodded quietly.


    ¡°You¡¯re nodding? Just a nod¡­ you no longer love me¡­?¡±


    ¡°Offcourse, I love you Phil. You¡¯re the only man that I have truly loved and no other have been able to b¨¦at that..¡±


    ¡°Hmm! That¡¯s so sweet. Are you sure..? He asked grinning. As he touched my hands and then my face, removing invisible dirts.


    I nodded again.


    He bent over and kissed me gently on the lips.


    I shr¨²gs.


    ¡°What¡¯s it? He said touching my eyebrows, my lips and my ear.


    ¡°¡­ did another man touched you, k¨ªssed you when you traveled..? he made it sound like a joke but I didn¡¯tugh


    ¡°You¡¯re doing it again, asking annoying questions. I thought I just told you now that you¡¯re the only man I love, who else will have the g¨²t to kiss me..?


    ¡°Pardon me April, you¡¯re resisting me that¡¯s why I asked. You don¡¯t used to resist my touch before. I was only wondering aloud¡­¡±


    ¡°Is because I¡¯m not in the mood. I have alot of things upying my mind and the major one is my Mom..¡±


    ¡°I understand. Your Mom is going to be alright. Let¡¯s be positive and keep trusting God for a miracle..¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I like the way you say that. I will keep trusting God for a miracle..¡±


    ¡°Permit me to put you in the mood..¡± he said k¨ªssing me all over.


    He bent over and kissed me gently on the lip and I responded.


    We passionately held onto each other as we k¨ªssed.


    His hands moved to my bra and unhooked and grabbed my b?obs.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the bedroom, I whispered, I was carried away by the moment.


    I was fumbling with his shirt button and belt.


    ¡°No.. I¡¯m sorry..¡± he paused and straighten.


    My body desperately wanted more.


    I went over him and began to kiss him, he responded and then again he stopped me halfway as my hand traveled down his trouser.


    ¡°¡­ let¡¯s not do this. He said again sitting up..¡±


    ¡°Why? I asked, confused and annoyed. I thought he wanted me like I so much wanted him.


    ¡°Because I want it to be difference and special. Not hasty, not a makeup s?x for every misunderstanding but something more. You¡¯re very special to me and I want to treat you as such in every way possible..¡±


    ¡°So, when are we going to get intimate..¡± I asked without thinking. My desperation could be felt in my bodynguage and tune..¡±


    ¡°April, you¡¯re.. Hmm, confusing me¡­¡±


    ¡°.. you used to be the one asking me to hold on because you¡¯re not ready or you don¡¯t feel like it. You don¡¯t always encourage intimacy between us, what changed now. Why are you sounding this way..?


    ¡°.. Tell me the truth, I promise that I won¡¯t be m?d. Did.. Denise, I mean did any man touched you or make you feel desperate for s?x. You¡¯re not the woman I used to know¡­ what changed..?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s absurd Phil. You always have a way of spoiling my mood. You set my whole body on fire and when I responded, you start asking silly questions. I¡¯m an adult, I just felt.. the time is right to get deep into each other but here you¡¯re again asking me the same thing we discussed few minutes ago..¡±


    I stood angry as I readjusted my clothes.


    My bra fell off, I picked it up.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry again. I was only surprised at the change but I¡¯m loving it. I¡¯m d you noticed that I finally set your body on fire because I have been wanting to do that..¡±


    He grabbed me from behind, kissed my neck before turning me over.


    He kissed me a little more and said.


    ¡°.. I told my parents about you and my intentions towards you. They approved and will love to meet you..¡±


    I smile shyly.


    ¡°¡­ I love you April, I want to make you my wife and that¡¯s only if you want me as much as I do..¡±


    ¡°Is this supposed to be a proposal..? I askedughing out..¡±


    ¡°Well, something like that. I don¡¯t know if I want to wait any further. I know this isn¡¯t formal enough, not to worry, I¡¯m going to make it a beautiful one, just like you dreamed..¡±


    ¡°Are you serious right now? Or this is another of your jokes..¡± I asked grinning from ear to ear. My expressions was a joyous one.


    ¡°You know that I hardly joke, especially not with something as sensitive as this. I don¡¯t want you to live here alone or live anywhere again aside my house as my woman. I want you to be my wife and mother to my kids. I have always wanted that, right from the moment I fell in love with you which have been over five years now. Louise tr?uble obstructed our lives but is all over. No obstruction, he¡¯s behind bars and he will be released anytime you give your orders¡­¡±


    I loosened from his arm and began to dance while shaking my waist.


    He wasughing, he grabbed me again and k¨ªssed me for a while before letting go.


    ¡°What of school? I¡¯m still in school I hope you¡¯ve not forg0ten. That can be an obstruction..¡± I said as I thought of my school.


    ¡°That¡¯s not a pr?blem. You¡¯re finishing school as my fiancee and we¡¯re getting married right away. And if school is taking too long toe to an end then you will be leaving school as my wife and Mama to my eleven children..¡±


    I bursted intoughter


    He couldn¡¯t also hold himself as we bothugh so hard.


    We had a good time before he finally leavete in the night.


    Louise was released after a week.


    I returned back to school and after that semester was over, I came back home.


    My Dad called updating me that my Mom was responding to treatment and she was getting better.


    I was joyous and didn¡¯t stop praying for her.


    Phil made it official by proposing to me one evening at a fancy restaurant.


    He took me out on a date.


    My engagement ring was the real rock


    Pure diamond and I couldn¡¯t stop staring at it.


    He took me to meet his parents and they were lovely and warm.


    They said I was one of the most beautiful ck girls they¡¯ve seen.


    I know that¡¯s just a joke because I¡¯m certain they must have seen a whole lot of beautifuldies.


    If they¡¯ve met Rachel, my sister who looks like a pretty ck model what will they say.


    But theirpliment made me feel really good


    They were really weing and I enjoyed every moment with them


    I couldn¡¯t just  stop smiling.


    Phil made attempt on us getting intimate, he said spending time together with me put him in a high mood


    So we agreed to see during weekends only, that will help keep us guided.


    I was on holidays before another semester will begin.


    Phil and I were slowly making arrangements towards our future wedding.


    I was so happy that I announced my engagement to my family.


    They were happy and was looked forward to me finishing school and then getting married to my dream man.


    Rachel told me one day that she wasing over to spend time with me and to also meet Phil in person since she haven¡¯t seen him.


    She said Denise was acting up and she wants to give him some space.


    She called again informing me that her bags were packed and I should either ask Phil toe pick her when shends at the airport or I should be there.


    Rachel said she was desperate to meet Phil as she wanted a man just like Phil who will propose to her too.


    She asked if Phil has any single brother.


    She may even get married before me if she meets a serious, caring and handsome man like Phil.


    I don¡¯t know how to react to this whole Racheling over.


    I asked her to hold on let me speak to Phil about it first.


    She wasn¡¯t happy that she has to wait but she had not choice than to wait for my feedback.


    I need to think and also to ask my man what he thinks.


    Rachel is tr?ublesom and I really don¡¯t want pr?blem in my paradise.


    But she¡¯s still my only sister, and I suppose to be kind to her despite her unruly behavior.


    I really don¡¯t know what to do yet with this new Rachel development.

 Episode 67

    By Amah¡¯s Heart


    I went with s taxi to pick Rachael from the airport.


    She was jumping in excitement immediately she saw me.


    I know I had my fears, I also have doubts about my sister but how worst can it get.


    Phil didn¡¯t have any problem with hering, he was rather happy that he will finally meet my close family member physical rather than on phone.


    I silently prayed that her stay won¡¯t bring any unnecessary drama to me.


    She has been disturbing me that her bags were packed and she just want to visit for few days that¡¯s all.


    ¡°, I was afraid that you will turn me down, you won¡¯t agree to mying..¡±


    She said immediately we were in the cab going back home.


    ¡°Why do you feel that way¡­¡± I asked feigning ignorance.


    ¡°, you know¡­ we don¡¯t really get along so well like sister do, despite we¡¯ve simr character attribute. And¡­ also you probably have a certain resentment towards me¡­¡±


    ¡°Why do you think so?..


    ¡°¡­ I don¡¯t have issue with you Rachel, I just don¡¯t want youing over with  strange, unnecessary behavior, that won¡¯t sit well with me, I guess you already knows that. My life is finally drama free and I want it to remain that way. Also, we¡¯re in no way shares simr attributes¡­


    She kept staring at my ring finger.


    ¡°I totally understand. I will try to be in my best behavior, I promise¡­ So help me God..¡± She said thest part with a hand on her chest.


    I chuckle a little before looking straight a head.


    She grabbed my hand, staring intensively at my ring


    ¡°¡­ permit me to ask, is this real? Like this is the real diamond. This is expensive rock girl, but are you certain it isn¡¯t fake because¡­ Wow, this cost a fortune..¡±


    I smile and nodded, which indicates that the diamond ring is real.


    ¡°Reminds me again what your Phil does for a living? That your man is damn rich. This is the kind of men that are rear and hardly seen. I don¡¯t know how hended in your but he¡¯s a big fish. That¡¯s the kind of man I hope to meet for myself someday..¡±


    ¡°Make it a prayer point and  also trash that mentality that is mostly targeted on the size of the man¡¯s pocket and you wille across one..¡±


    ¡°What are you saying April? The targets will always be on the bag, how big his bank ount is. Beside, you wouldn¡¯t have agree to marry Phil if he wasn¡¯t contributing financially which is the most important part of rtionship..¡±


    ¡°Everything is not arguable Rachel, that¡¯s why I beg to differ whenever you¡¯re generalizing women with such a myopic thinking. Lovees first for me before every other thing and my way of thinking mustn¡¯t align with yours..¡±


    She nodded absently but I didn¡¯t care less. All that matters is that she sensed the seriousness in my voice and kept quiet.


    When we finally got home, she was in aww all through as she couldn¡¯t believe how I can have such a spacious, nice apartment all to myself.


    She freshened up and we are but she never stopped wondering on so many things she was seeing in my apartment.


    I understand that she wasn¡¯t expecting that  and I try to make her feel at home.


    ¡°Oh my God! April, you¡¯re the real ssic Chic and there¡¯s nothing you will tell me about that. This apartment is mennhh! I¡¯m speechless. Phil really got eyes for quality and beautiful things. He carefully hand picked this ce especially for you¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ I know I wasn¡¯t expecting you to live in trenches but this is wild beyond my imagination. I wasn¡¯t expecting this kind of sweet, serene,dylike, lovely apartment. Phil is the real MVP¡­¡±


    I listened as she went talking none stop about the house.


    ¡°Phil didn¡¯t secure this ce for me. I wasn¡¯t even in good terms with him when I rented this apartment. I won¡¯t deny the fact that it was through him I saved up for this apartment. But I was so desperate and determined to get a ce of my own that I became victim of scam. I was duped Rachel, after I paid fully for an apartment, I didn¡¯t realized that the house agents were scammers. They collected my money with false pretense of getting me a ce and disappeared. I had to start saving again, I was also working and every dime went into renting an apartment and furnishing it. I worked so hard towards it, denying myself  so much and I was happy and proud of my achievement¡­¡±


    ¡°Why weren¡¯t you in good terms with him..? Rachel suddenly asked


    ¡± huh..? I replied confused.


    ¡°You mentioned that during the time you got this ce, you and Phil weren¡¯t good, so.. I want to know why. He was cheating on you? You caught him with another woman pants down..¡±


    I scuffed impatiently at the question and refused answering her.


    ¡°Of all the things I said, the only thing that registered in your mind is this?


    She nodded in a funny way


    I decided to ignore her.


    She followed me as I went about, she was inquisitively anxious, she wasn¡¯t ready to drop the question


    I know Rachel won¡¯t give up until she satisfy her curiosity.


    ¡± I didn¡¯t catch him cheating, rather is the other way round¡­¡±


    ¡°Which other way? Oh wait.. he caught you cheating.? You cheated on him..?


    ¡°Not exactly Rachel. Well since you Care to know I will tell you..¡±


    ¡°¡­ when I had enough of the maltreatment at home, I couldn¡¯t take the game of favorites anymore,  being tossed and turned around like a garbage, everyone condemning and making me feel I wasn¡¯t part of the family, I can¡¯t continue to be treated like a maid anymore in my father¡¯s house..¡±


    I took a deep breath as the emotional anger travels around my heart.


    Rachel wish I could stop talking because she must have remembered how she practically frustrated my life back at home.


    She will steal money, take food without asking and spoil things in the house and instead of my parents scolding her, I will be med and used for it.


    I will work so hard so that I can save up money for school since my parents weren¡¯t taking my education very serious rather Rachel was who they were concerned about.


    My hard savings will still be taking from me and given to Rachel to have party with her friends or to solve any personal pr?blem sheined off.


    I couldn¡¯t talk orin because I will be med at the end forining and questions like ¡°we feed you and take care of your bills yet you can¡¯t spare few change from your savings so that your sister can solve some school pr?blem and have good time with her friends..¡±


    They prioritized Rachel¡¯s needs above mine, praises her beauty and treated her like she was a princess or the only daughter.


    I felt invisible and when I had enough I decided to follow Louise and leave.


    I haven¡¯t really said all this out loud before, letting Rachel understand what her childish behavior caused me, makes me feel free.


    I saw her bent her head as she tries to avoid my stares.


    She said is okay if I don¡¯t feel like talking about it, but I assured her that I have already started and won¡¯t stop until I¡¯m okay.


    I took a deep breath and continued.


    I narrated how Louise turned out to be another nightmare. How I met Phil and he became my prince charming and I thought he was going to rescue me from Louise but he found out that Louise and I aren¡¯t rted like I made him believe


    And Louise even tried his blackmailing tricks as he tried scamming Phil through me but his ns failed


    I lost Phil and ran away from Louise.


    I narrated how I arrived at my current state with Phil and so many events that unfolded  during my journey.


    She had a watery eyes which she tries to hide, I assumed is tears and was a bit surprised that a stone cold Rachel, unrepentant Rachel can shed a tear.


    ¡°I¡¯m.. an architect of all this doom that came upon you. Oh April, I¡¯m deeply sorry. I was ignorant and st?p¨ªd too¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ I was just jeal¨®us because you were mostly admired on how beautiful, hard-working, courageous and homely that you are. Everyone appreciate you more, I have to try anything and everything to atleast get Mom and Dad on my side. I felt satisfied when I take things and I go telling everyone that you took it or you are the spoiler.


    ¡°¡­ I never thought of the emotional damage or the wreck on your mental health. I was leading and felt happy with such an achievement..¡±


    ¡°¡­ you made me realize now, fully, that I was not only s¨¦lfish but w¨ªcked.


    ¡°¡­ even as you returned, I saw that you¡¯re still having the best of things and getting most admired, the jeal¨®usy came back and I try topete and do everything to be on the limelight..¡±


    ¡°¡­ April! will you be able to find a ce in your heart and forgive me.. someday?


    ¡°¡­ I mean you could have died without any us knowing what bes of you. It was all my fault sis and I¡¯m deeply sorry..¡±


    ¡°¡­ I will try to be in my best behavior moving forward and be the sister I have never been to you. Can you ever forgive me April..?


    I heaved sadly, even as tears freely poured down from her eyes as she speaks, I was still not fully convinced.


    I was still skeptical about Rachel and all I intend to do is to watch her and see she has truly repented..¡±


    ¡°Sure, I can. atleast it wasn¡¯t totally sad journey, it was through my running away I met Phil, a man who loved me beyond words. Who despite how much I lied or messed up, he still came back and is making my dreamse through. Everything still worked together for my good and the good of the family too..¡±Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Rachel nodded as she came over and gave me a tight hug, I freely reciprocated.

 Episode 68

    I was back to school after my holiday was over, while in school my mind was not settled.


    Is been five weeks in school and I still can¡¯t concentrate.


    Rachel was home, she has decided to settle in with me for the main time.


    Phil met her and I can still remember the expression on his face.


    He couldn¡¯t take his eyes off Rachel.Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Rachel on seeing Phil was all over him as she showers him with lots of eulogy.


    She was opening admiring how cute he was.


    She mentioned his mustache is so cute, his natural eyeshes.


    The brows, his finger nails, his fresh looking muscle free hands.


    The way he walks, andugh.


    She even said she loves his kind of lips, she could imagine a man like Phil kissing her.


    She will melt at his touch because cute men, especially one like Phil are mostly her weak point.


    Yes, Rachel said all this and many more.


    She hugs Phil so tight anytime hees around or took us out, pressing her chest to his every time Phil visited.


    And I noticed that Phil was so cool with this kind of flirtatiousments and act from Rachel.


    He didn¡¯t caution orin, rather he had great admiration for Rachel too.


    Her figure, her pretty face, her liveliness, her heights and her attitude in general.


    He said he wish I was a little bit funny and crazy like Rachel, he makes it seem like a joke


    I didn¡¯t take offense immediately until I travelled back to school.


    As I began to think about everything, I became not only worried for those two but angry that Rachel is shamelessly flirting with my man.


    Or am i overreacting?


    N¨¦ver, the truth is ring, is only a fo?l that will ignore the signs.


    I didn¡¯t want to think much about it, I wasn¡¯t ready to start doubting my man¡¯s trust.


    He won¡¯t look at another woman twice.


    well, so I thought until he started fixing his gaze on Rachel.


    He willugh at her silly jokes and will not shun Rachel or ask her to keep off whenever she touches him inappropriately or get too close.


    I just ignored the signs and evenughed it off until I returned back to school.


    now, I can¡¯t even concentrate anymore.


    I call Rachel unexpectedly asking her where she was and she will sometimes say she¡¯s at home or taking a walk or in an eatery.


    I will stylishly ask her if Phil was with her and she will say no.


    st weekend, she told me that she was out with Phil and returnedte


    He didn¡¯t want her bored or home alone all the time, he decided to take her out.


    I wanted to know what they did together, if he brought her home after the outing and left immediately or he stayed.


    I was asking suspicious questions that made Rachel ask me if everything was alright.


    I know Phil was taking her out because he has already informed me and I said I was okay with it but is no longer okay with me.


    I can¡¯t wait to return back home and find out what exactly is going on.


    In most of the call with Phil, I¡¯m always asking questions.


    I want to know who he was with, why his line was busy when I called.


    If he still finds me beautiful


    Between Rachel and I, who is more pretty.


    If he will ever cheat on me


    What is the thing that another woman will do that will make him fall for her.


    I was always asking questions.


    He also wanted to know why I was asking such questions and thought I was just being funny.


    I pretend like it was indeed funny but deep down I wish I could get truthful answers to those questions.


    In no time, I was done with exam and without further dy, I picked up my things and didn¡¯t even tell Phil that I wasing back.


    He had mentioned that he was going to a baseball game practice that Saturday and asked if it was okay to go along with Rachel who happens to beining of boredom.


    I said it was perfect


    I wanted to atleast catch them doing something I refused to agree to.


    That thing that¡¯s on my lips, settled in my mind and concluded in my thoughts.


    I was afr¨¢id to say it out loud but my entire being has concluded that something fishy was truly going on.


    I¡¯m d I have only one more semester to go and this whole school trouble will be over.


    I put my phone on ne mode so that whenever Phil calls, he will assume it¡¯s badwork that made me unreachable.


    On my way home that very day, I will sometimes turn off the mode, call him to know his exact location, after the updates, I will change back my phone to ne mood.


    I travelled down and arrived in the evening, I know after the base ball, Phil will bring Rachel home.


    I hide, d?sg¨²ised myself with hood and ck eye shade, i waited patiently.


    Is obvious that they¡¯ve not returned yet.


    Because I didn¡¯t see Phil¡¯s car and thest time I spoke he was still out.


    While I was there waiting, Phil drove in and parked just at his normal parking spot, which was close to my house gate.


    I hide properly, I was watching from my hide out when Phil turned around to open the car door for Rachel.


    She was pretending to have knee injury.


    I can tell is all lies, Rachel is an actor and I wasn¡¯t surprised at her fake acting.


    I was ?ngrily boiling, why he will be opening the car door for Rachel?


    Rachel was on this short, mini skirt that¡¯s above her knees.


    Like a table tennis or cheerleaders female outfit


    It was a deep evening, darkness was settling in but I can still see everything.


    I bit my lower lip as Rachel rxed on my man while pretending to be having a fake knee injury.


    She was dressed s¨¦xily and her outfit wasn¡¯t proper at all for such game and definitely not right for my man


    The baseball game ended since 4 30pm,


    Who knows what they were doing before now and arriving thiste.


    Is already past 7pm


    Phil has totally loosed focus because of Rachel.


    I remember how he said something on wanting to make out with me and can¡¯t wait to kiss me all over and he said so many other dirty s¨¦xy things that he hardly say to me. That was few nights ago.


    We agreed to wait untill wedding night and do not do s?x talk, I was wondering why he was making those s¨¦xyments but I waved it off that night.


    As I¡¯m adding the whole piece together, I can no longer deny my fear in all this.


    He had refered to me as Rachel one night and immediately corrected himself.


    Alot of things that was begining to make sense.


    if I check well, I will see that something is obviously going on and I don¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell me otherwise.


    I knew that Rachel can never be trusted, I only wanted to give her the benefits of doubt, but I was wrong to have done that.


    Now she has my man but I will never allow Rachel to take the one thing that matters to me away.


    She has chewed on the wr?ng cord, I will put her in her ce but not after beating the h¨¦ll out of her.


    I sulked angrily as I watched them from my hide?ut going inside, side by side,ughing like lovers.


    I waited for sometime before leaving my hide?ut and went inside the gate.


    I already know that by then they will be inside my apartment.


    What will Phil be doing in my apartment by this time with Rachel.


    I have everything nned out.


    quietly, I try opening my apartment door but it seems it was locked inside.


    I have a spare key which is always hidden outside my door, just in case I lost my keys.


    I used it to unlock the door, very quietly and went inside.


    They were obviously not in the sitting room.


    I just knew it.


    My instinct was right all along.


    I definitely knew that this two have already started sleeping together.


    My instinct is never wrong.


    I was eighty percent certain that there¡¯s something fishy going on.


    I wish I can disappear to the bedroom right away.


    I can hear Rachel noisyughter.


    ¡°Oh my God, Phil.. my sister is really enjoying. You got it in you, hahahaha¡­ I¡¯m enjoying it. Ugh! Please I love it.. this is how I love it..¡±


    A shameless Rachel moaning sound wasing from the bedroom.


    I shut my eyes to remove such imagination but it was right there.


    Oh no! Rachel has stabbed me on the back and she will not go back to wherever she came from in one bit.


    This night is going to be real bl??dy.


    Phil has rubbed himself on the mud by stooping this low.


    He will get his share in this bloody f¨ªght and after which he can take his cheap, lying and disg¨´sting self and disappear from my life.


    Two shameless people that don¡¯t know that their doom was just by the door.


    I left my bag outside because I don¡¯t want anything that will obstruct me on this mission.


    As I was about to close back the door, it made a disturbing sounds.


    I hurried away after closing it and hide at the back of the curtain.


    I heard Rachel saying


    ¡°Please continue, I¡¯m sure is nothing. Is probably the television or just nothing to be worried about.


    Phil was safety cautious, I heard himing to check.


    I know he was the one, I can see him from the back of the curtain where I was hiding


    He looked around before going back.


    ¡°I told you is absolutely nothing, please continue. I love it..¡± I heard Rachel said.


    I came out and tiptoed towards the bedroom, but that¡¯s not where the noise wasing from, surprised.


    rather it wasing from the kitchen.


    I quickly aborted bedroom mission and hurried quietly to the kitchen


    Rachel must have talked Phil into the kitchen thing.


    She¡¯s always fantasizing over crazy things and ideas.


    Maybe he convinced Phil into making out with her in the kitchen, next will be bathroom and then sitting.


    Is this even normal?


    How much I dislike her, I feel disdain for her right now.


    I can hear her more clearly saying things about me to Phil right in the kitchen.


    How I was always the shining queen of the house, how everyone loves me back at home and treated me exceptional and she used to wish she was like me.


    Thest part was literally true.


    She was always envious of me


    Her jealousy wasn¡¯t hidden and always makes everything about her.


    She takes what belongs to me and get away with it.


    I even remember how my two jump suits and some of my expensive wears were missing after I came back from home.


    Rachel wasughing when I called to ask her.


    She went to my box, took my things and never told me.


    She never stopped stealing my things and now she wants to steal my man.


    It won¡¯t go down well this night


    I couldn¡¯t wait anymore and quietly went straight to the kitchen so that I can catch them red handed.

 Episode 69

    I walked in but not fully, I stayed close to the kitchen door where I won¡¯t be easily seen.


    I saw Phil frying chicken, Rachel was cutting veggies while chewing chicken.


    After every bite she made this nons¨¦nse sound that sent chill down my spine.


    Phil was still fully dressed and didn¡¯t even remove his face cap.


    He checked his wrist watch severally


    ¡°, I need to call your sister, I haven¡¯t been able to reach her..¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m already getting worried, we¡¯ve not spoken all evening. I told you while i was driving home that I haven¡¯t spoken to her almost all day, that was after she called and I try calling back and it was unreachable..¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯s probably upied with her too much reading or maybework or she¡¯s out with her friends and there¡¯s no service there..¡± Rachel said unconcerned as she took another bite from her chicken.


    ¡°Hmmm, so lovely. I¡¯m really enjoying this..¡±


    Phil who was still concerned said to Rachel


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel so, it gets me worried and makes me uneasy as if something is wrong. Sometimes I feel her presence very close, as if she¡¯s in this house with us..¡±


    Rachelughed out


    ¡°That¡¯s so cute, you¡¯re so funny. April is in school and alright. Stop troubling your mind..¡±


    She said and hit him gently.


    He chuckled worriedly and continued frying the chicken.


    She thanked him for helping her make a good meal because she wasn¡¯t much of a cook unlike me, but she was learning and getting better with it.


    Why at it, Phil brought out his phone and probably try calling me but it wasn¡¯t going through he put back his phone in his trouser pocket.


    Rachel was done with the veggies and showed Phil and he nodded.


    He began cooking the veggies.


    In no time he was done.


    She started telling him about her school, her friends and how much friends she made before she finally wrote her final exams and left school


    She also said she likes the fact that she came down to stay with me.


    She mentioned how she will Miss her friends and how she wants to marry a good man like Phil and have beautiful kids.


    She envisioned alot of beautiful things but none has happens as she ns.


    Phil told her to rx that it¡¯s only time, everything will eventually worked out.


    He checked the time again and sighed.


    He told Rachel that he was done and will be on his way home because it was already past 8pm, iste and he shouldn¡¯t be here when he haven¡¯t been able to reach me the whole day except the twice I called to know where he was.


    Rachel asked him to eat but he said he wasn¡¯t hungry, maybe until he hears my voice.


    ¡°I wish a man will love me like you love and care about April. Why do you even love her like this, I just want to know because it sometimes baffles me..¡±


    ¡°Love has no reason, love is pure, love is selfless and honest, love is undiluted, beautiful when you¡¯re with the right partner..¡±


    ¡°Awwn, you see this your love confession, I¡¯m falling for it. I wish my man can love me like this but unfortunately, I don¡¯t even have a man..¡±


    He was about washing his hand on the sink and startled all of a sudden


    He seems to sense my presence.


    Phil turned and there I was standing like an angry ghost staring at them.


    ¡°Jesus Christ! He screamed out of shock and that made Rachel to also turn to see me.


    ¡°¡­ April! he called out  as he tries to make sure I wasn¡¯t a ghost.


    even Rachel seems very shocked.


    ¡°¡­ are you alright, what are you doing here. I have been trying to reach you. How did youe in. You told me that you¡¯re still writing exam¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ my love are you alright..¡±  he asked moving closer.


    ¡°, April, is that really you? How did youe in, what¡¯s going on. You¡¯re scaring us..¡± Rachel said as she stared at me confused.


    Phil try touching me but I pped off his hand.


    Although I didn¡¯t see them doing anything suspicious aside the fact that they were cooking together like a couple and gisting, that alone made me very angry.


    ¡°¡­ wha.. what is going on, you scared me to d¨¨?th. Are you alright? You¡¯re scaring me April..¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here..¡± I asked with a suspicious tune.


    ¡°Phil was just cooking and I..¡± Rachel was talking but I quickly interrupted.


    ¡°The question wasn¡¯t for you Rachel, just keep shut. Shut up your mouth and let Phil, who I directed the question to answer


    ¡°, Ooh..! Rachel said shocked but she kept quiet anyway.


    ¡°April what¡¯s the problem, you¡¯re scaring me for real..¡±


    ¡°I want to know what¡¯s going on here? Why are you cooking with Rachel, by this time of the night? when did all this romantic nons¨¦nse between you and Rachel started¡­¡± I asked angrily


    ¡°Romantic what..? Phil asked back surprised.


    I didn¡¯t bother replying him.


    ¡°¡­ I only wanted her to try my cooking. We had argument back and she said men cant cook and I told her I was a good cook which you can attest to.


    She had a injury on her knee, she fell down at the field today and injured herself, we stopped at the hospital and have it checked.


    It¡¯s just a bruise an..¡±


    He was still talking when I inteterupted.


    ¡°All this cock and boo story is not the answer to my question. You prefer Rachel right? No pr?blem..¡±


    ¡°¡­ All the time I was in school, I knew something was definitely wrong. The rubbishments, the whole Rachel and Phil thing that both of you portray. You two are crazy and I can¡¯t do this¡­ I can¡¯t do this seriously..¡±


    I said walking out of the kitchen.


    Phil caught my arm


    I pped and hit him to let me go.


    ¡°What hase over you, what¡¯s the pr?blem¡­ what got into you April..¡±


    ¡°Since you want Rachel, then go be with her. Two of you are verypatible and seem so good together. Trust me, I won¡¯t be surprise if there is more between you two which I¡¯m yet to find out..¡¯N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    ¡°April, what¡¯s the pr?blem with you? Phil was innocently helping me, It was my fault, insisted he show me his cooking skills. If you don¡¯t trust me, please trust him, he can never hurt you, this man loves you with his Life, you¡¯re acting childish and this isn¡¯t good at all..¡±


    I rushed towards her immediately she said that I was being childish and pped her hard on the face.


    ¡°First thing tomorrow morning, I want you gone. You¡¯ve betrayed me long enough, I gave you benefits of doubt, hoping you have truly changed but unknown to me that your agenda is to take over my man. You jeal¨®us, gr¨¦edy fo?l. I wish I never had a w¨ªcked sister like you. You¡¯ve caused me so much pain and made Life miserable for me back then, but I will no longer give you that Chance to do as you please, I will so d¨¦al with you until you wish you n¨¦ver had a sister like me .¡±


    ¡°¡­ you think because you¡¯re beautiful and can take over any man or have anything you wish right? you will have to practice that g¨²tter behavior of yours outside my house. Because I will squeeze you until you beg for mercy..¡± I said pointing at Rachel.


    Her hands remained on her cheek


    She was shocked seeing me In a different form.


    I¡¯m sure she haven¡¯t seen me in this state of anger before.


    I can see her fears, it was written all over.


    Phil roughly dragged me out into the room.


    He pushed me roughly on the bed and stood a?grily staring at me after he locked the door.


    ¡°What¡¯s the meaning of this, what got you wired so hot? Why will you through such abominable usations on me.. with your blood sister? Are you crazy..?


    ¡°¡­ have I ever given you reason to doubt my faithfulness to you? Why will you leave school, turned off your phone and sneak into the state just for this d¨ªrty drama. I see why you¡¯ve been asking some rubbish questions¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­ you think I¡¯m cheating on you with Rachel. You¡¯ve a filthy mind April¡­ Jesus. What in God¡¯s name is all this. Where¡¯s this evening from¡­¡±


    For the fact he said I had a filthy mind I was ready to give him the taste of his own medicine.


    ¡°Yes, I don¡¯t trust you and won¡¯t be surprise if you¡¯re seeing another woman or even sleeping with my sister..¡±


    He opened his eyes shocked.


    ¡°¡­ you¡¯re probably sleeping with Rachel or some otherdy. You¡¯re not fully faithful and I can¡¯t be blinded by your fake love show, Phil. You¡¯ve not only been making remarks about Rachel and how fun she is, you¡¯ve also told me severally on how you wanted to have intimacy soon. I just added the whole puzzle together and it makes real sense now..¡±


    ¡°You called my love for you fake?  April, you opened your mouth and say all this to me?


    I boldly said yes and I expected him to walk away angrily but he stood staring at me unbelievably.


    ¡°Who¡¯s putting all this d¨ªrty ideas in your head because this is not you. Who exactly are you?


    ¡°¡­ You¡¯re not my April, what has p?ssessed you? The April I know will n¨¦ver¡­ never doubt my love for her. She have n¨¦ver disrespected to this extent..¡±


    ¡°¡­ my April trust me and I trust her too. April I know will not sneak down here, risking herself just because she wants to catch me pant down, in bed with another woman and the worse part is her own sister. April I know loves me and she knoyw that she¡¯s the best thing that has ever happened to me. She¡¯s all I got and i cherish her so much. she¡¯s my heart beat and the only one I have eyes for, she¡¯s practically the air that I breath, the woman for me. My own Sunita, the one I will spend my entire life with and she will bore my children, we will grow old together in love. My forever woman¡­ the one that kept me going..¡±


    He moved close to where I sat on the bed, knee before me while taking my both hands into his.


    I began to regret my actions.


    I felt so guilty, I shouldn¡¯t have doubted this man.


    Maybe I shouldn¡¯t have allow my jeal¨®usy, suspici?us and anger for my sister get the best of me.


    ¡°¡­ thats the April I fell in love with many years ago and haven¡¯t stop loving her ever since. The April I know is a calm, sweet and organizeddy. She¡¯s not crazy or  act like this tyrants who¡¯s trying to ambush me..¡±


    I chuckled loudly as he kissed my hands.


    My stomach made a loud noise.


    I realized I haven¡¯t eaten anything reasonable since morning.


    I have been so determined in my quest that I forgot about food.


    ¡°This is how it feels when you used me with Denise or some other men..¡±


    ¡°Is this your way of getting back at me? You just br¨²ised my heart, you h¨¹rt me April with your words and actions. You said my love for you is fake..¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t thinking right at all. I was afr¨¢id you preferred my sister and not interested in me, I¡¯m sorry..¡±


    He reassured me all over of his love and I believed him wholeheartedly


    He kissed me and we had quiet a moment in the room, before he released me.


    I wanted to shower and realized my box was outside.


    I was going out to get it and was surprised to see it by my room door.


    I guess Rachel stepped out, saw it and brought it inside.


    Phil brought in food for me and fed me like a little baby.


    He passed the night in the house


    We spent most of the night talking, I was in his arms and it feels good.


    I can¡¯t wait to spend this moment and many more with him and that¡¯s how we decided to take the wedding preparations more serious.


    I apologise to Rachel the following day but I noticed she started trading carefully after then.


    She was no more loose around Phil anymore, she was careful with her words and actions.


    Before she finally travelled back, she also apologized for everything she intentionally or unintentionally put me through.


    Iter went back to school


    Rounded up with my exams and dusted off with school.


    My Mom was better, she was back to the US with my Dad.


    I do video calls with them most times, my Mom was recovering beautifully.


    I was filled with gratitude.


    My parents and even my brother and his family will be traveling down for my wedding.


    The wedding date was already fixed


    Cards printed and distributed.


    I asked Rachel toe over and she was skeptical about it.


    She asked me if I was sure I wanted her over, and I assured her that it was fine.


    I went with her for my bridal shopping.


    I bought my wedding gown and a another beautiful gown for Rachel who will be my chief bridesmaids.


    Phil¡¯s sister was with us and we had a girl moment together after the whole shopping.


    Two weeks to our wedding my parents traveled back home.


    Phil got a new house for them.


    They didn¡¯t go back to the old house that has so much of the ill, saddened moment.


    I travelled back to meet my Mom and it was a great moment with them.


    My Mom was very grateful to me for not giving up on her like many did.


    She thanked me and Phil and also Denise and to everyone who seriously contributed to give her another chance to life


    Phil came down and met my parents.


    The two familiester came together to discuss on the marriage rite


    A big party was held for my mom wee back


    We can¡¯t thank God enough for this miracle.


    My brother, Mark also got married to his sweetheart.


    It was from one celebration to the other in my house.


    My wedding is in a week time and everything was almost set and good to go.


    Rachel said she and Denise has reconciled and he will be at my wedding.


    I¡¯m looking forward to my big day that¡¯s the major thing on my mind.


    Phil can¡¯t wait for the wedding to be over so that he can boldly call me his wife.


    I¡¯m loving the feelings thates with being Mrs Phil already.


    Just a little time and it will be a reality.

 Episode 70 (Final Episode)

    They say good things happen to them that believe, is not in all cases because I have seen a lot of people that believe and have a positive mind towards life but it never ended well for them


    They be depressed, sad, lonely and bitter.


    Life wasn¡¯t favorable at the end and that was never what they envisioned.


    All they had left is hope and hope never disappoint


    Mine was not just hope, I had a strong belief that things will eventually workout for me.


    I had faith, I believe wholeheartedly that even though my path might have been messed up along the line but I was determined to work really hard to make something good out of my life.


    I wasn¡¯t ready to return home the same way I came out.


    If things didn¡¯t work out with Phil, I wasn¡¯t going to relent, I will make sure I make a name for myself.


    I wasn¡¯t relying on anyone.


    I would have sponsored myself in school.


    It would have been a part time school that I can afford, studying something different and working hard to secure my future.


    It wouldn¡¯t have been the kind of big and expensive school I attended, courtesy of Phil.


    I will still graduate in my affordable University, get a better job and maybe a car which I would have driven home to see my people, so that they can also know that I¡¯m fine and I¡¯m not miserable.


    Well, that would have been the case but God brought Phil my way and he was loving and patient with me.


    Through his financial assistance my Mom became cancer free.


    That alone means the world to me and I will never forget his kindness in a hurry


    Is already a year after our wedding and can¡¯t seems to get over the honey noon.


    Phil pampered me like a little baby.


    He makes me understand the true meaning of loveBelongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    He brings out the best in me.


    He found me when I was lost and at Louise mercy.


    He came through and saved me even without knowing.


    Louise would¡¯ve messed up my life, even though I would have found my way out but Phil brought the miracle easier and quicker.


    Several challenges broke us apart and I thought I had lose him to another woman but God brought us back again to each other and despite how rough the road has been, I sometimes had doubts that we won¡¯t end up together but God had a bigger and better n and I¡¯m d that I was patient and hopeful


    My Mom traveled again for her final hospital check up


    She came backst week I drove down in mytest car that Phil bought for me to go see her.


    I stayed for two days and returned back to my dearest husband who was already missing me


    Mark married his sweetheart and his wife became pr¨¦gnant in no time andter gave birth to a baby girl


    Rachel was the next in line


    Denise became more serious with her after seeing that Rachel has changed


    After the fight we had back at my ce, Rachel became calm and considerate of other people¡¯s feeling.


    She was done with her selfish behavior and was ready to embrace the real change.


    She traveled back after my wedding and got a job in amercial bank.


    After seven months of been in a serious rtionship with Denise he finally asked her to marry him.


    Rachel was happy and sent me pictures of her ring.


    It wasn¡¯t expensive ring ording to her but she cherish it so much.


    She mentioned that she was equally saving for her wedding.


    Denise wasn¡¯t as rich as Phil but all that matters to her is the fact that he is God fearing and cares deeply about her.


    After a year and six months of marriage to Phil, I was already getting worried on why I wasn¡¯t pr¨¦gnant yet.


    Phil said i shouldn¡¯t allow that to bother me, we should enjoy ourselves first before babies starting


    Since we were medically okay, i shouldn¡¯t be troubled with the dy.


    He said we should rather trust God and have faith that at the right time, I will conceive.


    I have always trusted God, I heard faith that at right time I will carry my baby


    And my faith paved the way for me


    after 2 years I became pregnant.


    It was a smooth pr¨¦gnancy journey for me.


    Rachel gave birth to a baby girl on April 1st. My birth month, she said her name is Marvel and her second name will be April, not just my birth month but she was also given my name


    I felt so honored


    About a yearter of celebrating the birth of Marvel April Denise, that¡¯s Rachel¡¯s baby girl my little prince came forth.


    Exactly on the 1st of June.


    The special one that was perfected created by God.


    He was so pinky and cute, all I saw was God¡¯s gift to me.


    I have never loved like the way I fell in love with my June gift.


    It was love at first sight.


    Even Phil couldn¡¯t get enough of his son.


    We enveloped him in our warmth and love.


    We called him Joshua, he will grow up to be brave and strong.


    My story is almost looking like a fairytale, i don¡¯t want it to end.


    I¡¯m happy talking about this beautiful life journey and I¡¯m finding it difficult to conclude


    This felt like a new stage, another new begining.


    I¡¯m in love with this new begining and I have faith that the rest of the journey will be a great ride.


    No matter how rough it gets, I¡¯m a tough nut to crack


    I will adjust to every situation and keep moving.


    My family is my biggest gift.


    My faith is my wheels as I journey ahead.


    THE END.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!