"Till It Happens To You" - Fiction

"Till It Happens To You" (Once upon A Time)- CONT'D

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 36-

Sandra is drinking orange juice and reading a magazine as Akin walks in wearing a dark suit and sunglasses.

“Ha, please tell me you have something to show” Sandra asks

Akin drops an envelope on the table and takes a seat opposite Sandra. Sandra tears the envelope open to see pictures, she glances through some of them and drops the rest on the table.

“How do you feel Sandra? I think you should have left sleeping dogs alone” Akin says
“No!” Sandra responds “I suspected Jude is cheating but now I have proof and I have seen that woman in my house” Sandra says
“How dare him” Sandra continues
“So what next, you divorce him and then what?” Akin asks
“I don’t know” Sandra responds with a teary eye
“Listen, you do not know what you have until it is gone. What your husband did or is doing may be wrong but you must think past yourself and consider your unborn child. Are you going to deprive that child a father and a home just because you can’t stand a cheating husband?” Akin asks

Akin wasn’t a counselor or has he ever been in a relationship long enough to advice other people but he grew up without a father and turned out badly despite his mother’s effort. Father’s are very important in a child’s life whether women can stand them or not and children should not be denied that right. He had seen Jude with his son and could tell that he will be a good father. So, if he could save another child from growing up without a father. He would

Sandra sobs and then composes herself
“Okay, I will forgive him.” She says in the mist of tears
“Good” Akin says as he stands up to leave
“What do I owe you?” Sandra calls out as she searches her purse for her check book. She looks up and realizes Akin is out of sight.

As Akin leaves the eatery, he feels light and fulfilled. For once in his life, he had done something right. Little did he know that he forgot to remove the picture of Jude’s son from the pile after showing the pictures to Jardon awhile ago

Sandra picks up the pictures and promises to burn them. Akin is right, her child deserves a home but as she looks through the pictures again, more carefully, she sees the woman-Elizabeth carrying a child. She brings out her phone, checks through the media to check for her husband’s picture. She looks at the picture of the boy and then her husband, looks at the picture again and swipes her tears.

In shock, she says “No...No...It can’t be”

    -FICTION-

-CHAPTER 37-

Jude sits in a detective’s office as the detective introduces himself as Kola and they shake hands. Detective Kola takes out a paper and pen, getting ready to write.

“Thank you for coming down Jude” Detective Kola says
“I want to help. Anyway, I can” Jude says
“Well, murders and suicides happen on a daily basis so it is not new that your maid’s husband is killed” Detective Kola responds
“But, you wouldn’t know anything about it, right?” Detective kola continues

“Um, I don’t think I am knowledgeable in this area. What I know is that the cause of death is strangulation and it is a professional job” Jude responds
“Did you ever meet the deceased?” Detective kola asks
“Yes, I knew him a little” Jude responds

“How would you describe your relationship?” Detective Kola asks
“Casual.”Jude responds
“Did you know he was in debt?” Detective Kola asks
Jude laughs
“Um, I don’t think I do. I can’t remember” Jude lies
“Where were you the day Jamal died?” Detective Kola asks

Jude stands up

“I don’t seem to understand why you are interrogating me when the culprit is out there. If you do not have any court order to demand I speak any further, I am sorry there is not much I can say” Jude replies

“It is a simple question, sit down. Just tell me where you were the day Jamal died?” Detective kola asks again
“I was with my wife” Jude replies and sits
“Which one?” Detective Kola asks
Jude looks confused
“I beg your pardon” Jude responds

“Walls have ears. I did a background check and what I gathered is you seem to have two women in your life. So, which one were you with?” Detective Kola asks

Jude bites his lips

“I was with the other one” Jude responds
“Does your wife know about the other woman?” Detective Kola asks
“I don’t think that is any of your business or does the information has anything to do with this case” Jude fires back
“You see Jude...I can call you Jude, right?” Detective Kola asks while Jude nods in agreement

“How it looks from my end is that your wife doesn’t know you have a side chick and a child. Mr Oyemade on the other hand who is the husband to your wife’s maid probably finds out that you are keeping a double life and he blackmails you. Since you two already have a casual relationship like you say, it is easy for him to hold you down for a few Naira and cancel his debts. But you do not give in to his demands, he threatens to tell your wife and you have him killed while you go on vacation to see your other woman that gives you an alibi. After Jamal dies you get interested in the case because you want to know when we find you out so you can either cover your tracks or run. So Jude, every question I ask you is my business” Detective Kola continues

Jude looks at Detective Kola in disgust and starts to laugh. He laughs hard
“I am so sorry. I have never ever considered myself as a suspect. The theory you just laid out is impressive but they are only theories until proven. You do not have any evidence to back up your claim” Jude says and stands up to leave.
“If you ever find the culprit, please do not hesitate to contact me” 
Jude continues and leaves the Detective’s office.
“Oh I will call you sooner than you think” Detective Kola calls out behind Jude

“What insolence” Jude responds and storms out of the police station

   -FICTION-

-CHAPTER 38-

In the evening, Chief and Sandra have dinner together. Chief watches Sandra so close, it is noticeable. They make frequent eye contact and Sandra starts to get uncomfortable. Sandra requests to be excused from the table.

“How did your day go” Chief replies instead
Sandra stammers, not knowing how to lie to her father
“It went well. I just need to rest early” Sandra lied
Silence
“Have you been stressed out?” Chief asks
“A little” Sandra responds
Silence
“Well, my day went bad” Chief says
Sandra looks at her father in a suspicious way because he never talks to her about how he spends his day or how his day went.

“I was in a board meeting all day with your father in-law proposing preposterous things. Then I remember you are coming over and I rush to the house only to find out you have gone out again. I head to my study and stay there till I hear you come in” Chief Continues

Sandra starts to get uncomfortable with the discussion not knowing what her father is trying to achieve with his narrations.

“I am sorry. I needed to settle some things” Sandra responds
“Please, can I be excused” She continues but does not wait for a response. She stands up and takes her plates to the kitchen. Her father follows her with his own plate.
“It gets interesting dear. After I hear you come in, I leave the study to come greet you and see you are not in the living room but your bag is there opened up. I get curious seeing bits of photographs in it and I open it up to see for myself.” Chief continues

Sandra drops her plates in shock as they chatter on the floor
“No privacy? I can’t leave my things and not get you snoop into my bag?” Sandra calls out
Chief slaps Sandra hard on the face and she hits the floor
“This is my house. You are my daughter. If you won’t grow up and act responsibly I will have to do the growing up for you” Chief says
“What were you thinking? I thought I explained to you what this marriage is all about and you agreed to it.” Chief continued
Sandra with her hand on her face just stares at her father.
“I have tried to protect you long enough, it seems you think you can now protect yourself” chief says
“You knew?” Sandra shouts

“Of course I knew...Do you think I will leave my only daughter out there with those thugs without protection?” Chief shouts back
“Why daddy? Why didn’t you tell me Jude had another family?” Sandra asks
“I didn’t tell you because I was trying to protect you” Chief responds
“Protect me from what; from whom? The Casanova you made me marry?” Sandra asks
“You will know in due time.” Chief says as he walks to the sink and drops his plate and walks out of the kitchen leaving a confused Sandra behind.

At early hours of the morning the next day, Chief is sitting behind his study desk scribbling something down when a maid knocks and announces he has a visitor. He beckons for the person to come into his office.

Detective Kola walks in and takes a seat.
“Detective Kola, I hope you have good news for me?” Chief asks
“I do” Detective Kola responds
“What were you able to dig up?” Chief asks
“We can pin the murder on Jude” Detective Kola says
Silence
“How will you do that without his father’s bailing him out?” Chief asks
“That is why I am here. Sir, you work close with his father and have inside details. If you know anything incriminating that can be given to EFCC or get his father arrested, Jude won’t have anyone to help him out while his father is under scrutiny.” Detective Kola says

Chief drops his paper.

“Great idea, I may have something that we can both work on. We first get his father arrested for fraud then get Jude arrested for murder. One way or the other, they are ruined.” Chief says
“Yes sir” Detective Kola agrees
“I know they killed Jamal. Not long after the poor man came to me as an informant did they find his dead body. They can’t go scout free with it” Chief says
“Good job detective. You will hear from me soon” Chief continues as the policeman stands to leave shutting the study door behind him.

“The reign of the Jardon is almost over. It is just a matter of time now” Chief says to hi

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 39-

Meanwhile, Elizabeth takes her son to the supermarket and doesn’t notice the stranger following them. She gets to the isle where they have ice cream and she stops, trying to figure out what flavour to buy for her son when the stranger joins them.
“Excuse me, I couldn’t help but notice we live in the same compound” Akin says
“Really? I don’t think I have ever seen you” Sandra says and wonders why men like to use pickup lines
“I just moved into the boys quarters” Akins replies
“Oh, isn’t that Mr. John’s apartment? “Sandra asks
“Yes, it used to be but the man travelled and told me to occupy the place while he is away” Akin replies
“oh okay, I am Elizabeth and this is my son Eli” Elizabeth says
“Eli in Elijah” Akin asks
Elizabeth giggles
“No Eli in Elliot” She responds
“Am Jim...Jim in Jimmy” Akin says
Elizabeth blushes
“Good to meet you Jim” She says

They smile at each other and Akin walks away to do some shopping. He is curious and drawn to this woman because she reminds him of his mother and himself. Almost the same scenario that happened with him but his father never came back for him after leaving his mother.
He is going to protect this woman. That is why he went over to Mr. John and struck him on the head to take full occupancy of Mr. John’s apartment. 
Mr. John won’t be coming back from his journey forever, that’s for sure, giving Akin the opportunity to be close to Elizabeth and Eli.
Elizabeth and her son leave the shopping mall with Elizabeth carry many nylon bags as they leave the mall; they are approached by a car with Akin driving.
“Why don’t I give you a ride home?” Akin asks
“Oh thank you. That will be so kind” Elizabeth responds

She enters the vehicle with her son and Akin drives to their compound. He parks inside the compound, gets down and helps Elizabeth with her nylons.
Elizabeth is impressed
“Thank you Jim” She remarks
“You are welcome” Akin responds
Over the next week, they become very good neighbours.

******************************************************************One day, Elizabeth is having lunch with another neighbour’s wife. The woman envied Elizabeth because Elizabeth was obviously cared for by a man. It shows in everything Elizabeth does unlike her. She lives with a husband who expects her to do everything, she works like an elephant and gets pampered like an ant. Her neighbour’s wife can’t even remember the last time her husband bought her anything.

But Elizabeth has this constant glow until recent. She noticed Elizabeth has a gloomy face and a not so bright attitude so she invites the woman for lunch to find out the latest scoop on her as they eat a plate of Jollof rice with beef.
After Elizabeth neighbour’s wife gets updated on Elizabeth, she is not so envious of Elizabeth and empathises with her instead and is grateful for the husband she had for once. At least the man has never left her or threatened to leave her and her children.
“I am so sorry Liz” the woman says
“I don’t even know what to do” Elizabeth replies

Akin walks into the restaurant

Elizabeth stops eating

“Remember that new neighbour I told you about?” Elizabeth asks 
“The nosy one at the BQ” the woman responds
Elizabeth laughs
“He is not nosy joorh....He just walked into this restaurant” Elizabeth says

Her neighbour’s wife takes a look but Elizabeth stops her

“Don’t look...He will know we are talking about him. Oh my goodness, too late, he is walking towards us” Elizabeth says
“Hello Elizabeth” Akin says
“Jim good to see you here, this is Joke Mr. Adelana’s wife” Elizabeth says
“Hello” Joke says
“What are you doing here?” Elizabeth asks
“Very interesting coincidence; Well, maybe I find you interesting and have decided to follow you everywhere” Akin responds with a grin

Elizabeth blushes. This man was hitting on her

“The last thing my friend needs right now is a psycho obsessing about her” Joke says defensive
“Ha Joke” Elizabeth says
“I am not obsessing; I am just curious and made a Joke...Joke...” He laughs in sarcasm. “I came to grab something to eat while on my way to the stadium for rehearsals” Akin continues
“Are you an athlete?” Elizabeth asks
“Yes, Taekwondo....I am an eight-degree black belt. Just about to get to a nine-degree which is almost the highest rank” Akin responds
“Wow, really?” Elizabeth asks impressed
“Yea” Akin responds

Akin looks at Elizabeth and searches her eyes...Beautiful, he thought. Elizabeth becomes unnerved and looks away. Akin smiles knowing he got the reaction he wanted and walks away from them towards the counter. He purchases some things and walks out of the restaurant.

“He is scary” Joke comments
“He is not scary but confident, kind and a true gentleman.”Elizabeth responds
“You should be careful with him” Joke remarks
“My life over the years has been from one drama to another. I am trying to have a drama free life for once” Elizabeth replies
“Dating this guy will bring more drama. Giving your life to Christ...EHhn! That’s the only drama free life I know” Joke advises

Elizabeth chokes on the drink in her mouth

“Ehn! Pastor Mrs Adejoke Adelana” Elizabeth jokes
“Don’t say I didn’t warn you” Joke responds as they change topic, finish lunch and head home.

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 40-

Detective Kola is excited on his new case. Chief has paid him in abundance to find the culprit that killed Jamal and figure out a way to pin it on Jude. It was as simple as ABC because finding the guy who did it was easy.

He had gone to the morgue to look at the body. Jamal’s family had not buried him because of the ongoing investigation. One last time, he asked for a doctor’s opinion; a forensic pathologist who told him something vital. The professional was an athlete; taekwondo/martial artist. The wound marks shows a chokehold technique; in Judo this is called shime-waza, Japanese for constriction technique.

It is a grappling hold that reduces or prevents air or blood from passing through the neck of an opponent. The restriction may lead to unconsciousness but in Jamal’s case; death if the hold is maintained. Choke holds are used in martial arts, combat sports and self-defence applications. They are superior to brute-force manual strangling which requires a large disparity in physical strength to be effective. The doctor explains as Detective Kola listens and later explains to Chief who is so sure it had to be Akin.

So finding Akin was the job at hand.

He heads out to the national stadium and starts discussing with an official at the stadium pretending to be a movie director because people do not talk to the police even a detective. The justice is not perfect so people are mindful of the police.

“To inflict traumatic pain on an opponent, what rank will the person have to be as a black belter?” Detective Kola asks
“A 7 or 8 degree belter,” The official responds
“Hmmn, those are the highest rank in taekwondo right?” Detective Kola asks
“Yes... Well. The highest right now is a 9 degree black belter but none have reached that level, only a few is on the 8 rank here,” The official explains
“Can you give me their names?” Detective Kola asks
the official looks at the detective curious 
“You say you are a movie director ehn!” The official confirms
“Yes, I am,” Detective Kola responds
“I need a stunt man for an upcoming movie. It has to be done so I do not mind using a real black belter instead of an actor. It will cost more money training the actor to be a black belter, so why don’t I turn the black belter to an actor instead.” Detective Kola says
“I have always wanted to feature in Nollywood,” The official tells the detective.
“Well? If you give me the information I need, I may get you a cameo on the movie,” Detective kola replies

The official smiles at the possibilities, he becoming famous, quitting this job, getting women at his disposal.

“Okay, follow me to my office,” The official says.
As the detective and the official walk to the office, there are different belters practicing. A woman is kicking a man hard between the legs and slamming him on the floor which catches the detective’s eye.

“The woman is good,” The detective commends
“She is here for self-defence training. She is a doctor by profession,” The official responds
“Wow!” if women have those skills; no man will mess with them and there will be less abuse on women, the detective thought as he follows the official.

As they walk on, he spots a man walking into the stadium. The man looks familiar from the pictures Chief had showed him. Detective Kola does not forget a face. He stops in his tracks but the man had gone somewhere else. So, detective Kola continues following the official into his office.
Ten minutes later, the detective is holding a paper with a list of names scribbled on it.

“Is that of them,” The detective asks
“Yes!” the official responds
“I need to meet with them. When can I meet with them?” The detective asks
“There is a competition coming up in one month; two 8 degree belters fighting for the 9 degree title. Everyone will be here to witness it,” The official responds
“Okay, thank you.” Detective Kola says and flashes his ID card/badge. The official looks at it and frowns.
“Why didn’t you say you were a police man?” The official asks
“You will not have given me this information,” Detective Kola responds.
The official hisses... There go his dreams of going to Nollywood.

Detective Kola walks out of the office and checks to see if he cites Akin in the crowd like he did before but he doesn’t. Instead, he sees the woman who had impressed him earlier.
“Your skills are commendable,” Detective Kola tells her
“Thank you,” Chioma replies 
“No guy will ever want to mess with you,” Detective Kola comments
“That’s the point.” Chioma replies
“But I am trying to be fit for my wedding,” Chioma continues just in case he was hitting on her.
“Your future husband and patients should beware,” Detective Kola says and walks out of the stadium leaving Chioma wondering how he knew she was a doctor.

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 41-

Jude has been misbehaving since his visit to the police station. He drank, hasn’t responded to communication, and the nightmares were back in full force.
He lay awake remembering the discussion with the detective as his wife sleeps beside him as he stares at the ceiling, recounting the conversation.

The detective was right unless he said he paid someone to kill Jamal. The detective’s story if presented in court is strong and it will take a superb lawyer to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Jude is not guilty. If this case goes to court, Jude doesn’t think he can handle the humiliation because he is a public figure and the public were not too forgiving. Besides, Jude hasn’t forgotten his old sins; the rape. Maybe that one will catch up with him too and be presented in court.

He imagines himself in jail and envisions the day he will meet Chioma again and his fears are becoming a reality. She will be one of those to watch him get electrocuted on a chair or hanged on a tree.
Chioma’s thought brought back memories of the night he is with her in his car many years ago.

“Oh, how he misses Chioma.” Jude dreamt

He wishes she was the one sleeping right next to him as Sandra opens her eyes to listen to the rhythmic brush of Jude’s hand masturbating under their bed sheet calling out the name “Chioma” with a drunken breath.
“What are you doing Jude?” Sandra asks in shock
Silence
Sandra shoves Jude hard on the shoulder
“What do you think you are doing?” Sandra asks again and gets out of bed, switching on the bedroom light
“Where you just masturbating?” She continues the questions
“I was not.” Jude responds
“Yes, you were,” Sandra says
Jude brings out his hands from underneath the sheets and they are wet.
“I haven’t had sex in a while Sandra.” Jude explains
“Because I am pregnant,” Sandra says and rolls her eyes repelled
“What is wrong with you Jude? Since I came home from my father’s place you have been so distant and now you get drunk most nights which I can stand but never masturbate while I am right there beside you and you are calling another woman’s name.” Sandra shouts
“Okay, I was masturbating... What’s wrong? I still have blood pumping, my heart beating and am still your husband with needs. I haven’t died Sandra, so stop denying me sex because I am not dead.” Jude shouts back
“Never turn this on me Jude. I am expecting our baby and can’t do sex for now until the baby is born. Is that too much for you to understand?” Sandra asks and reaches for her pillow and a bedspread
“Where are you going?” Jude asks
“I will sleep downstairs and when the day breaks, I am going back to my father’s house until you stop acting unwise,” Sandra says and walks out of the room

Jude sinks back into the bed. He remembers that while Elizabeth was pregnant, he had Sandra and now that Sandra is pregnant, he has no one. At first, he looks sad but after a moment he smiles, looking content. He still had Chioma

Jude barges out of Chioma’s office at the hospital shaking with blood on his hands. He breaks in tears at the door post.
“What have I done?” he asks looking at his blooded hands
what he wanted to do was talk with Chioma. He went back to the hospital earlier to confirm if the Chioma his wife had mentioned was the same Chioma. After confirming it was her, he had gone back to apologise; beg for forgiveness.
But she walks him out of her office and threatens to get him arrested. He walked over to where she is and tries to beg her only to be kicked between the legs and thrown on the floor. 

Chioma had crossed over him, heading for the exit while he asks her to stop but she didn’t stop.
Jude couldn’t allow her leave and perhaps call the police so he brings out a gun. His father’s gun, he had stolen weeks back for protection.

He fired the gun and kept firing until there were no more bullets.

 

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 42-

Chief had agreed to Jude’s father was proposition. Jude’s father explained that they were going to make fraudulent withdrawals from accounts of customers and invest it in smuggling drugs; the bank gets their money back with interests in less than two weeks, keeps the profits and return the borrowed money before the customer, EFCC or SFU-Special Fraud Unit- will notice.

For the first pickup of cash invested, Chief accompanies Jude’s father. He is kitted with a spy wrist-watch to get evidence for future purposes.
Jude’s father does not suspect a thing.

It is 12 am as Chief and Jude’s father walk into a night club. The exterior is dark, but the interior is lit with coloured lights. As they enter the club, they see young people jam-packed. They walk past the dance floor, the Dj and a bar to the back of the club.

“Remind me why we are here,” Chief says in sarcasm
“Relax, I want you to witness everything, we are in good hands,” Jude’s father tells Chief

They reach a connecting door at the back of the club and Jude’s father opens the door to show an office. They walk past bodyguards and seat in front of the club owner who is a major drug dealer in the city.

“Ha Jardon... You came in time,” The drug dealer says
Jude’s father smiles as a large case is set on the table by a bodyguard and opened to show a box filled with 1000naira notes.
“Nobody uses Ghana-must-go anymore?” Jude’s father jokes
“It is pay day!” Jude’s father announces and turns to Chief who positions his left hand enough to make sure his wristwatch has a good view.

In a sudden action, the office door swings open and another bodyguard enters.
“We have a problem sir,” The bodyguard announces

Everyone in the room looks at the guard

“Another guy has overdosed himself,” the bodyguard continues
“Well, take care of it. I am in the middle of something important?” the club owner responds

The bodyguard walks out of the office and business continues. 
Chief is in complete shock the whole time. Then Jude’s father stands up to leave with the suitcase in his hand as he beckons for Chief. Chief stands up too, exchanges pleasantries with the club owner and leaves strutting behind Jude’s father.

On their way out, they see the commotion in the club. A guy is convulsing from a drug over dose. 
“This is what I am afraid of.” Chief announces pointing at the victim
“This is not our business Chief. Our business is to make money,”

Jude’s father tells Chief as the club owner walks into the conversation apologising for the commotion.
Jude’s father and Chief walk out of the club straight to where the car is parked. As they drive off, they pass the back of the club and see two men throw the body of the victim into the streets.

They drive the remaining journey in silence

Jude’s father heads for the bridge connecting the mainland and island to drop Chief at his residence.

“I am disappointed in you,” Chief says breaking the silence
“How long has it been? How long will you continue to live this way?” Chief asked Jude’s father
“Please, can we not talk,” Jude’s father replies
“This life killed your wife and you still live it not worried, didn’t you love her? This life is going to rip you of everything you have, don’t you know that?” Chief continues
“Don’t bring up my wife,” Jude’s father warns
“I remember you were a straight “A” student in school but you got caught up in the wrong crowd. They dragged you into a fraternity and you graduated, start your own business and get married with a son. Is that not enough?” Chief asks
“You are blessed with everything! But you still seek for things that will ruin you,” Chief says
“Enough!” Jude’s father shouts, stops the car and demands Chief steps out
“Are you insane? It is 3 am, on a bridge with water underneath... How will I get home?” Chief asks
“Well, you should have considered that and kept your mouth shut. Now get out!” Jude’s father yells
“You will regret this,” Chief says and alights from the vehicle.

Jude’s father drives away.

Chief did not understand Jude’s father was dying; he is diagnosed with an invasive prostate cancer.

   -FICTION-

-CHAPTER 43-

Akin and Elizabeth had started a relationship and Akin was in love with Elizabeth. He couldn’t tell her the whole truth so he kept lying; one lie after the other he tells her daily but keeps a diary so he remembers what he told her and when.
Keys turn the lock to the Boy quarters where Akin lives and Elizabeth steps into the apartment with nylons as Akin walks in behind her.

“Thank you for helping out,” Akin says
“I learnt good manners from the best,” Elizabeth says

She had changed in the few months she had been with Akin. She is calm and feels loved. Akin gives her the attention she requires and they communicate well.

Elizabeth glances around the apartment and as usual the apartment is clean, she spots his camera

“Are you a photographer?” Elizabeth asks
“Photography is a hobby,” Akin replies
“You are a man of many talents,” Elizabeth teases
“Come and see pictures I have taken.” Akin walks over to the camera and Elizabeth follows
He unpacks the kit and pulls out the camera as Elizabeth watches. He had not asked Elizabeth for sex and Elizabeth wonders why.

When Akin is done showing her the pictures, Elizabeth realizes how close they had been and shrugs after she remembers her new found status.

“What's wrong?” Akin asks
“Nothing,” Elizabeth lied
“Are you scared of me?” Akin asks
“No, off course not, why will I be.” Elizabeth replies
Akin studies her and senses fear.
“It hasn’t always been easy for me. I had a tough childhood; my father beats my mum every day until one day he doesn’t return home. He left without saying goodbye. Although my mum and I were happy he is gone because it meant the beating stopped but we missed him. I missed him more and fell to the streets for solace and I learnt to fend for myself and be street smart which made me overcome my challenges,” Akin explains
“I know what you mean;” Elizabeth says
“There is so much good in the world Liz. Whatever the past has brought to you; you should focus into the future and be hopeful,” Akin continues

He takes her hand and leans to kiss her but her phone rings. The caller ID shows Jude which they both see and they separate. Elizabeth cuts the call and apologises for the distraction. Akin walks to the nylons on the table and unpacks its content but watches Elizabeth. Her body language shows she is upset.
She looks his way and Akin looks away, concentrating on the task at hand.

“Is something wrong?” Akin asks
“Every time I look into the future, my past catches up with me... Somebody needs to put him out of his misery,” Elizabeth says
“Eli’s father?” Akin asks
Elizabeth nods
“Do you want me to kill him for you?” Akin asks 
Elizabeth laughs at the thought of murdering Jude
“If I hadn’t followed Joke to Church yesterday and given my life to Christ, I will say please go ahead. Pop the guy in the head as many times as possible but too late. I am born again, Christ like... Old things are passing away for new beginnings,” Elizabeth exclaims

Akin brightens

“Born again... Wow! I am proud of you,” Akin says
“I am proud of me too,” Elizabeth responds
They start another conversation of her new faith and spend the afternoon making plans for the future.

******************************************************************At night, Jude is tied up to a chair and blind folded with a gag in his mouth. Right in front of him is a table and on top of the table is his mobile phone.

Akin drags another chair and sits beside him
“You shouldn’t be toiling with women and their feelings,” He tells Jude
Jude makes mumbling sounds that cannot be understood
“No one ordered me to kill you but putting you out of your misery is a good idea and I agree with it. So, I have put your phone in front of you and if you can reach it in this predicament, then you get to walk away with a few hurtful memories of what could go wrong if you keep toiling with women. But if you never get to your phone before the battery dies, am afraid you will starve and choke in your own vomit or something. You will die because no one knows where you are or will ever find you here and that should put you out of your misery.” Akin says as he stands up and walks out of the room leaving a murmuring Jude behind trying to speak but can’t get the words out.

 -FICTION-

-CHAPTER 44-

“I want that man to pay for his crimes,” Chief yells in Detective kola’s car at 5 am

Chief had called Detective kola after the fiasco with Jude’s father and more than an hour later, Chief was calling fire and brimstone as Detective Kola drives him home.

“I don’t care how you do it but I want this to end next week. I can’t stand the sight of that man and I refuse to continue pretending to stand his guts,” Chief shouts

“Sir, I have it under control, I have closed in on the hit man and when we confirm Akin as the culprit, we will have him arrested. Once he is in custody, we will offer Akin a deal; telling him to pin the murder on Jude to get a reduced sentence. Then we can get 
Jude arrested for the murder of Jamal while we leak these recordings you have through the spy watch as evidence of a criminal act on the internet for EFCC to arrest Jude’s father. It is a matter of time.” Detective Kola assures Chief

Chief gets home, takes a bath and tries to sleep only to be awakened by a maid and informed that his daughter is back in his house with her luggage.

He grunts under his breath and curses the day he suggested a merger with Lauren Onochie Osondu aka the Jardon
******************************************************************

Akin wakes up and realises his kidnapping Jude, tying him up, gagging his mouth and leaving him to die was a dream.
He leaves his bed and smiles at the thought of having Elizabeth for himself. Maybe he will do what he dreamt about, or not. Only time will tell.
Later in the day, he goes over to Elizabeth’s apartment.
“I have a Taekwondo competition tomorrow and I want you to be there,” Akin asks Elizabeth
“Me? Taekwondo! No.” Elizabeth says
“C’mon, it will be fun and I will appreciate your presence. You will be my good luck charm. Praying for me to win while I beat up someone else,” Akin says

Elizabeth giggles

“Okay, I will consider it,” Elizabeth says
“There is nothing to think. You are going and that’s final,” Akin tells Elizabeth

They both laugh

The next day, activity going on in the taekwondo court at the National Stadium and contestants prepare and large crowds are present to cheer them up.

Elizabeth is present looking radiant, Detective Kola is in attendance and Akin is in clear view of the policeman.
Detective Kola’s phone rings. The caller ID reads Jude
Detective Kola picks up at the third ring.

“Detective Kola,” Jude says
“Oh Jude, how may I help you?” Detective Kola asks
“From the background noise, it is obvious you are in a busy place,” Jude says
“I am at the National Stadium,” Detective Kola responds
“Oh ok, that is not too far from where I am. Can I come and join you? I have a pressing issue I want to discuss with you,” Jude says
“You can but what is the matter?” Detective Kola asks
“Murder, I committed murder Detective and I will like to confess to it,” Jude says
“Oh, I see... Okay, come over then,” Detective Kola says and hangs up in total confusion

Moments later, after hours of preparation, the fight begins. There are head-height kicks, jumping spinning kicks and fast kicking... At first, Akin is ahead but in an instant things change and his opponent catches on. In the final match, Akin’s eyes meet Detective Kola’s own, and he is distracted, he gets a jumping kick to the body from his opponent, a kick to the head thereafter which knocks him to the ground. As he hits the ground, his opponent gives him another jumping kick just in time for the final whistle blow by the referee signalling the end of the match.

After the fight, people are congratulating Akin although he lost, but he looks agitated.

Jude is seen with the Detective drunk and the Detective is trying to listen to what Jude has to say and focus on Akin at the same time.
He can see that the Detective is not concentrating on him but has his attention in another direction

Jude looks at the direction Detective Kola is staring.

Elizabeth walks up to Akin and gives him a kiss just as Jude looks their way.
Jude sees Elizabeth kissing Akin and his face darkens... Then he smiles. Jude excuses himself and staggers towards the kissing couple.

Elizabeth jumps out of her skin as she sees Jude approaching them.

Jude grins at Elizabeth as he walks towards them.

“Nice to see you Elizabeth, you haven’t been picking my calls,” Jude says
Elizabeth struggles to appear nonchalant
“Um, likewise Jude... What are you doing here? “Elizabeth asks looking at Akin confused)
“Where is Elliot, Elizabeth?” Jude confronts her
Akin sights the Detective once more and motions for Elizabeth and him to leave.
“Jude, we were just leaving,” Akin says
“I wasn’t talking to you Akin,” Jude shouts
Elizabeth is confused... Who is Akin? I thought his name is Jimmy and how come he knows Jude and Jude know him?” She asks in her thoughts
“What is going on,” Elizabeth blotted out

Akin motions for them to leave, Jude stands in the way but Akin gives him a stern face that reminds Jude he is toiling with the wrong person so he steps away and lets them pass as they head out of the Stadium fast.

They head towards Akin's car, they enter and Akin grabs the wheel, shifts gears and drives.

Detective Kola joins Jude

“Save your confessions for later Jude,” Detective Kola tells Jude as he walks out of the Stadium leaving a very disorientate Jude.

    -FICTION-

-CHAPTER 45-

Elizabeth sits on the sofa in her living room with her legs crossed under her chin... Shaking and crying
she is terrified when she hears a knock on her front door.
Akin walks into the room
“If I had to leave the city now, will you come with me? You and your son,” He asks
Elizabeth still in shock asks “What?”

“If I need to move to another state or country depending on the money I gather, will you come with me?” Akin asks again
“Where will we go?” Elizabeth asks
“Far away from here.... Abuja or Canada... Anywhere but here,” Akin says

Elizabeth looks away

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want...” She recites

Akin walks to her and holds her face and stares at her eyes
“Runaway with me, people that owe me big time and I have money saved. We will be fine; the three of us together. Pack your bags Liz and wait for me. I have to go settle things when I return we leave,” Akin reassure Elizabeth.

“Okay” Elizabeth says
“I will come back tomorrow latest... Just make sure you are packed, and set to leave.” Akin calls out as he heads out of the house.
“Okay” Elizabeth called out behind him
Meanwhile, detective Kola goes to Chief and confirms the killer is Akin.
“That’s the Jardon’s right-hand man. Why, I am not surprised.” Chief remarks
“We need to act fast. Akin may have recognised me or something close. He felt the need to run at the sight of me,” Detective Kola informs Chief

“Get your men ready. I will handle it from here. We will raid him when he least expects it and detain him.” Chief says.
Chief’s phone rings, and the caller is Akin

The man freezes and shows the phone to Detective Kola so that he sees who is calling

Detective Kola tells him to pick the call

He picks the call to hear a disoriented Akin. For the first time, the composed man looks scared. He tells Chief, Jude’s father is trying to get him killed, and he needs to leave the country or state... He needs to disappear and will need money.

Chief calms him and agrees to his terms. I will give the money to him in cash, non-traceable at chief’s office the next day.
Chief cuts the call and informs Detective Kola that the lure had to be that day,
“The ambush has to happen in my office building” Chief buttresses the point as Detective Kola agrees.
******************************************************************

The next day, Sandra has had sleepless nights. She doesn’t understand what her father was planning and was only concerned for her marriage.

“Who is Chioma?” Sandra wanted to know...”is that Elizabeth’s native name?” Sandra wanted information

She paces back and forth in her father’s house, trying to decide. She decides and grabs her keys, dashing out of the house.

******************************************************************Jude is in a doctor’s office drunk; a psychiatrist. He paid for one session and hopes that at the end, his hallucinations will stop.
“Doctor, the hallucinations have increased,” Jude explains
“Tell me,” The doctor says
“I don’t know what is real and what is not. First, I murder a girl I have loved my life and then I see the mother of my child with my father’s handy man kissing.” Jude says, looks up and continues “My life is a mess doctor, fix it.” 
******************************************************************

Elizabeth more than a mile away had packed everything; she was just waiting on Akin’s arrival. The only clothes hanging in the closet were Jude’s clothes he left. She grabs as many as she can and pulls them to her, burying her face in them as she cries. Elizabeth sinks to her knees and prays, asking God for help and forgiveness then she hears a knock on the door and rushes for the door knob but as she opens the door, she finds Sandra on her doorstep instead of Akin.

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 46-

Akin walks into Chief’s office building, nothing unusual. People are in the lobby as usual and he walks to the receptionist, unaware that most people there were police officers on mufti.
The receptionist calls Chief’s secretary who calls Chief and announces Akin’s presence. As the Chief gets off the intercom with his secretary he texts Detective Kola who is on standby in another office downstairs that Akin is in the building.

Afterwards, Chief adjusts everything including his spy watch to make sure proper transmission and record every detail.
While people go on their normal business and nothing is suspicious. Akin goes up the elevator with people in it. Nothing unusual as people exit at different floors, Akin is still in the elevator going to the last floor. After several minutes the elevator stops at the last floor, the elevator door opens and Akin walks out straight into Chief’s office.

Akin walks into the office and sits opposite Chief. He takes out his phone and places it on the table.
“What’s this for?” Chief asks
“I need money Chief, enough money to disappear and you will give me the money I need. I don’t want to blackmail you to get this money out of you today but I won’t hesitate to ruin you if need be,” Akin says
“So it has come to this ehn?” Chief asks
“Let’s just call it pay day for me as a reward for my loyalty,” Akin says
“What if I say no. Tell you to go to hell,” chief asks
“Don’t force me to send parts of your little girl one box after the other as presents for you on every holiday,” Akin warns
Silence... Then
“I will give you two million naira and you will walk out and disappear forever. Non-negotiable,” Chief says
“You insult my intelligence,” Akin replies
Chief leans forward angry
“Listen, you this ingrate the reason I am paying you off is not because I am obliged to but because I pity you. You think I am not aware you were in the same cult with the Jardon and now he wants you dead, you mentioned. So I am saving your life here, you should thank me,” Chief says

“5million Chief,” Akin says and stands.
“I don’t have 5 million here with me, just 2” Chief responds
“I will come back here before the close of day and I expect to walk out of here with the money. Not later than this evening Chief,” Akin warns and steps out of the office
Chief picks up the intercom and asks the receptionist to hand the phone to Detective Kola. Two minutes later, the detective was on the phone
“He is yours detective. Lock him up and throw away the key this time,” Chief says and hangs.
The policemen in the lobby take position waiting for the elevator door to swing open to arrest Akin but instead Chief’s office door swings open and Akin strolls back into the office.
******************************************************************
Elizabeth is at her front door and Sandra is in front of her at the receiving end.
“Elizabeth,” Sandra says
“You remember my name,” Elizabeth replies
“I do,” Sandra says
“Aren’t you going to invite me in,” Sandra continues
“Sure...Please come in,” Elizabeth says making a way for Sandra
Sandra walks in and notices Elizabeth is packed up and ready to leave. She sits on the sofa in the living room
“Are you going somewhere,” Sandra had to ask
“Yes, I am going on a trip,” Elizabeth says
“Oh, okay.” Sandra says dying to discover if she is absconding with Jude

“Are you going alone,” Sandra asked
“What do you want Sandra,” Elizabeth says instead
“I want to meet my husband’s mistress. It sounds ridiculous but I need it for me. This visit will give me peace, the peace I seek,” Sandra says
“You want us to be friends Sandra...Best friends right,” Elizabeth says being sarcastic
“I don’t want you to be a silhouette in my mind. I want you and your child to have a face.” Sandra says
“I figure Jude started dating you before he married me to save his father’s business. I do not blame you for still holding on to the relationship despite your knowing Jude is married. I was the one who stole him away from you...” Sandra continues but is cut short
“Yes,” Elizabeth yells
“You took him away from me and I hated you so much for it,” Elizabeth continues

“I hated you so much that I helped him get rid of two pregnancies you had,” Elizabeth confesses
Sandra cries
“I know... Through my doctor’s confirmation and can’t be anybody but Jude,” Sandra says
Elizabeth is shocked
“So why did you stay?” Elizabeth shouts
“I don’t know” Sandra shouts back “I don’t know why I stayed.” Sandra says
“Maybe I did not want you to win and have him for yourself or I wanted to fight or I wanted to forgive him or I was stupid...I can’t explain why I stayed,” Sandra says
Elizabeth looks at Sandra with pity
“Sorry I caused you pain,” Elizabeth apologises
“I am honestly glad to see you are with child” Elizabeth continues...God is faithful, despite our plans He still made you come out strong,” Elizabeth continues
“Sorry I came into your life and took everything from you,” Sandra apologises
“Jude loves you not me and I want us to share him. I have always been an only child and never had to share with anyone but I have thought this through and it is the best for us two. He has a son here and I won’t deny the child an opportunity to grow up with a father.” Sandra continues
“No, no, no... I don’t want Jude anymore. You can have him for yourself. I gave my life to Christ and got rid of old things including Jude, I am in love with someone else...Plus, Jude never loved me,” Elizabeth tells Sandra
“Oh yes, Jude loves you...I have heard him call your name so many times before but it never stuck until now.” Sandra informs Elizabeth

“It is not my name... I am not Chioma,” Elizabeth tells Sandra.
They both laugh
“Really?” Sandra asks
“Really,” Elizabeth says
“Then who is Chioma?” Sandra asks
“I have no idea, but whoever she is, I hope she knows how much influence she has.” Elizabeth says
“She is my role model... Tormenting Jude without even coming near him,” Elizabeth continues
Sandra laughs hard

They both feel relaxed and hear a knock on the door but before Elizabeth could respond and ask the person to join them, Joke walks into the apartment because Sandra had told her earlier she will leave the house and Joke came to say goodbye.
Joke is introduced to Sandra and is shocked to see Elizabeth and Sandra in the same room looking cosy with each other.
“God is faithful,” Joke mutters

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 47-

Akin walks into Chief’s office with Chief in shock, thinking Akin has decoded what was happening and he came back to kill Chief first.
Akin walks towards a horrified Chief, he is wearing his dark suit as usual but with his hands in his pocket and he takes out his hand in slow motion. Chief almost has a heart attack and stops breathing but then Akin gets to Chief’s table, removes his empty hands from his pocket and picks up his phone on the table where he left it.
“I left my phone,” Akin says
Chief breathes and announces “Oh, I see”

Akin picks the phone up calls out “I will be back” and leaves Chief’s office heading straight for the elevator.
He presses the button to the ground floor and after a few minutes, the elevator door swings open and troops of policemen rush at him, push him to the floor before he could react, they handcuff Akin.

One policeman lifts Akin up and he comes face-to-face with Detective Kola.
“Your time is up” Detective Kola says as an officer walks him out of the building.
******************************************************************As Sandra heads out of Elizabeth’s house, Elizabeth walks beside her and smiles.
“So what happens next?” Elizabeth asks
“We trust each other and try to live in peace,” Sandra replies
“I can do that” Elizabeth says as Sandra enters her car and drives away
As Sandra leaves Elizabeth’s house, Elizabeth's phone rings, and the caller is Jude.

Elizabeth picks the call

“Funny, your wife just left my apartment” Elizabeth says with a sheepish smile on her face
“My what?” Jude asks
“Sandra... Your wife came over for lunch,” Elizabeth responds
“I should warn that you watch your back from now. You do not call the shots anymore but we do,” Elizabeth says
“Well, I should say the same for you. Watch your back Elizabeth because your boyfriend just got arrested, and only a matter of time before they come and pick you up as an accomplice,” Jude says
“Arrested? Why?” Elizabeth asked
“Someone paid him to kill Jamal Liz. Your boyfriend is a murderer,”

Jude buttresses the point but remembering his own crimes, he gulps more alcohol 
“Why are you so wicked Jude?” Elizabeth calls out
“Everything terrible that has happened to you, you brought upon yourself... Dating a killer,” Jude says
“I didn’t know he killed anyone,” Elizabeth says
“Does it matter, tell me? You expose my child to a killer ehn,” Jude shouts on the phone unable to control his jealousy
“I didn’t know he was a killer,” Elizabeth shouts back
“It is a good thing Sandra knows everything, so I won’t have to explain myself when I take my son from you and bring him to stay with us,” Jude threatens
“You can’t take my son from me Jude,” Elizabeth warns

Jude laughs

“Once I prove to any Judge how promiscuous you are and how you have exposed my child to killers... They will give me custody of my son on a platter of gold,” Jude says
“You won’t dare” Elizabeth warns
“You don’t understand what I am capable of,” Jude says and cuts the phone

That evening, Elizabeth attends a weekly church service with Joke and Eli by her side. It is a prayer session, and the Pastor announces different prayer points. The congregation prays after each announcement of the points.
Then...

The Pastor announces “Someone here, everything is taken from you and the enemy is threatening to take what is left. You need to let God and let go, come out and let me pray for you,”
Many people troop to the front of the pulpit for this prayer and Elizabeth joins the crowd.
As they assemble in front of the altar, the pastor tells them to call out “FIRE!”

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 48-

Jude is sober sitting opposite his wife in a restaurant with divorce papers on the table.
“Are you certain you want a divorce?” Jude asks
“Yes, Jude” Sandra says
“I deserve another chance” Jude says and grabs her hands
“You always do this Jude; say you will change but you don’t change instead things get worse,” Sandra says
“I promise you this time I am different. Do you realize I stopped drinking and am sober? I saw a psychiatrist who helped me set things straight. There is nothing to hide any more Sandra, just spending the rest of my life with you I expect,” Jude says
“Sign the papers” Sandra says instead and releases her hands from Jude’s grip

“How is our baby kicking?” Jude asks
“I am due soon” Sandra replies
“I want to be there for the delivery,” Jude tells Sandra
“Sure... Nothing has changed there, you are her father,” Sandra replies
“How about Mrs. Oyemade, How is she?” Jude asks
“She is expecting a boy, a large one. He weighs 3 kg,” Sandra says
“That’s good news... I miss that woman,” Jude says
“She hasn’t spoken in awhile since you two left for your father’s house again,” Jude continues
“What do you expect? She is grieving for her husband,” Sandra responds

“I am so sorry Sandra, I didn’t set priorities right, and I learnt from my mistake. I don’t want to lose you. You are everything I ever wanted.” Jude says apologetic
Jude looks at Sandra with so much love in his eyes, the same look he gave Chioma many years ago.
“It doesn’t change you lied. Attempted to kill me when you drugged me to get rid of my babies, anybody can say those words Jude but sorry won’t heal the pain and fill up the vacuum. Human emotions are not to be toiled with,” Sandra responds

Jude grabs her hands again

“I am so sorry, I was just so obsessed with my past and it blinded my future but no more. I got rid of my past and I am free now because I hurt people who I love and I want it to stop, just give me another chance,” Jude says
“No more secrets,” Sandra asks
“No more secrets,” Jude says
“If I stay, I am only staying because of our unborn child. Work hard to convince me, you have changed,” Sandra warns

“Okay dear, I will do whatever you want. Just don’t leave me and come home,” Jude says
“Okay” Sandra agrees
“We are moving to a bigger house on the mainland, a house near your daddy. So that when we have issues you don’t have to pack everything and move to his house, Just a handbag will suffice.” Jude says mocking Sandra
Sandra grabs the divorce papers and places it in her bag.
“I haven’t seen your dad in a while. Where is he?” Sandra asks
“Um, he told me he had to travel but he will be back soon,” Jude responds
“Cheers, to a new beginning” Jude continues changing the discussion, lifting his glass of juice and sharing a toast with his wife.
“You are a good woman. I don’t deserve you and I will never take you for granted again,” Jude says
******************************************************************

Inside the investigation room where Akin is paraded daily for weeks since his arrest because he refuses to cooperate, Detective Kola is tired of using the same tactics. The detective remembers Elizabeth and Akin kissing at the National Stadium and uses it against Akin so he threatens Akin that if he doesn’t comply, he will pin Elizabeth as an accessory to murder or an accomplice.
He gets an immediate response from Akin

“Leave her out of this,” Akin warns
“Until we agree, I can’t guarantee what you are asking,” Detective Kola says happy he had made headway and hit a soft spot in Akin because Akin had refused to talk despite everything they had done. Akin admits killing Jamal but won’t say who sent him. Detective Kola is confused why Akin hasn’t even mention Jude’s father who they know was the culprit - Little did the Detective know that in a fraternity, the bro code is never broken-
So, Detective kola pulls a chair across from Akin and Akin puts his face to the ground, thinking.

“Okay, I will do and say whatever you want but you have to sign legal papers exempting Elizabeth from all this no matter what,” Akin says
Akin would go to jail, so he did one final good deed.
“Done... So tell us your story again,” Detective Kola asks pulling out a recording device and setting it up in front of Akin before pressing play
“Who paid you to murder Jamal?” Detective Kola asks
“Jude” Akin responds
“Jude Osondu paid me to kill Jamal because Jamal was blackmailing him,” Akin responds

Detective Kola records the whole staged confession and promises Akin he will be comfortable in prison, spending the rest of his life there and Elizabeth will be free from everything.

 

-FICTION-

-PAGE 49-

The Jardon was dying. He is diagnosed with high blood pressure and prostate cancer and late detection had made the cancer spread to his bones.
Jude’s father tried to hide it from everyone. He didn’t want his enemies getting any ideas of getting rid of him or Chief taking full charge of the Bank.

So he had taken a trip abroad to undergo radical prostatectomy. His surgery was a success but a 7 to 14 day period of catheterization is required- where a thin tube is inserted in the body to further treat the Jardon of the disease.
The procedure was a success
and his doctors prescribed 3-6 weeks of rest before returning to normal work schedule   due to his increased blood pressure. Jardon returned home and his son updates him on everything that happened while he is gone. Jude’s father is relaxed when he hears Akin is arrested because he knows the man will never talk due to their bloodline fraternity but he is very concerned with Sandra and Jude’s marriage.
Ever since finding out Sandra is expecting a girl, the Jardon makes a back-up plan for the future of his business.
Elizabeth’s son; Eli will have to suffice as the heir just in case Jude’s father dies before Sandra births a boy.
The Jardon calls his lawyers and changes his will with no one knowing.

Jude likes to throw a party, and this one was no exception. He was celebrating his wife’s return home; their baby shower and new home... Everything in his life was perfect, so he needed to celebrate.
There is a small gathering filled with friends and family at Jude’s new residence near his father in-laws house. Jude is wearing a tuxedo, white shirt and red tie while Sandra is wearing a red dress showing her huge baby bump. Mrs. Oyemade is in the gathering not serving anyone but being served by other maids. She is now part of the family.

Everyone is merry except Chief.

Chief had waited for this day for a long time. He had planned every move possible and was glad that everything was falling in place. Little did the Jardon know that Chief knows of his illness and he is making plans to kick Jude’s father out of the Bank through controlling interest by bribing other shareholders follow his plans.
Controlling interest is when one shareholder-Chief- or a group acting in kind hold high enough percentage of ownership in a company to enact changes at the highest level. Chief was going use his ownership of stocks plus other shareholder’s stocks to vote Jude’s father out as CEO to head the Bank himself.
Detective Kola had informed him of Akin’s confession and they had picked that present day for the police to arrest Jude.
It was perfect.

Jude was busy celebrating his stupidity, Chief thought and Chief is happy that his daughter will be rid of the boy soon.
He regrets pushing his daughter through these and promises to pay her when he controls the company. He will train her on everything she needs to know to take over from him when he is long gone and her children shall be successors.
Jude and Sandra dance in front of the crowd and everyone else joins them on the dance floor.
Sandra sites her father, kisses Jude on the cheek and goes over to her father and asks him to dance with her.
“How are you?” Chief asks her as they dance
“I am fine dad.” Sandra says
“You will soon be okay. I promise,” Chief says
“I know dad” Sandra says
“Sorry for putting you through everything,” Chief says
“Dad, you sold me on a platter of gold,” Sandra teases
Chief frowns
“I am a terrible father,” Chief says
“I agree but I consented to it, remember?” Sandra says
“That makes you a terrible daughter too,” Chief says and they both laugh

Sandra leans on her father’s shoulder as they dance and sights police men walk into their premises.
They fill everywhere with Detective Kola heading the team. The Detective walks over to Jude who is discussing with his father.
“What is this entire disturbance,” Jude’s father asks
“Your son is under arrest,” Detective Kola says
“Me, what did I do,” Jude asks
“You are under arrest for the murder of Jamal Oyemade” the Detective shouts as the music stops and everyone goes quiet.
Mrs Oyemade stands from her sit and goes to grab Sandra’s hand
“What is going on,” Sandra asks
“Justice...” Mrs Oyemade tells Sandra
“Justice is being served” Mrs Oyemade continues as the police men drag Jude out of his premises and the Jardon gets a health attack and drops to the ground.
There is chaos in the premises of Jude Osondu.
A week later, Jude hangs himself using bed sheets in his cell to the wall while his father lay in an intensive unit in the hospital from ischemic stroke.

Chief walks into the Bank and declares himself the new CEO of the company while Sandra births a baby girl which Jude never gets to see.
Sandra couldn’t explain why but it felt right, so she gives her daughter the name Chioma which literally means “good God”.

******************************************************************A large crowd is at a wedding ceremony. The bride in a white wedding veil walks through the aisle as the pianist plays.
The groom stands at the end of the aisle, near the Pastor.

Kunle is wearing tuxedo and looking handsome waiting for his bride to get to him

   

-FICTION-

-CHAPTER 50-

Chioma looks at herself in the mirror in an inner room in Church as she prepares for her big walk through the aisle. Chioma smiled at the woman who stirred back at her as the memories flood her and remembers her journey. In the past, she had a journey and in a few minute, she will begin another one.
She remembers discussing her mother many years back and how her mother’s singular action helped her get back on schedule.

Her mother told her “the motivation to live is not in anyone else but in you”, and Chioma believed every word.
So she cut her hair as a sign of renewal and focused on her books getting only distracted by Kunle.
Chioma aced most papers in her secondary school final exams scoring A’s in 7 courses and a B in Igbo language. She enrolled into medical school in a federal university in Lagos.
In 2016, the school raised its standards increasing the cut off points from 2.50 to 4.0 for students to continue medical training in the institution but Chioma scaled through and graduated from the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, faculty of clinical sciences as one of the best students. Chioma chose the department because of her experiences; she wanted to help other people.

Chioma’s mother was so proud, the woman took more than 15minutes sharing her testimony in Church on the pulpit after Chioma’s convocation day. The technical unit removed the tone from the microphone to get Chioma’s mother to stop talking.
Chioma’s father was proud of his daughter. He couldn’t hold back his joy seeing his daughter turn out well. The only issue he is having with her is her distant relationship with a boy- a Yoruba boy.
He refused to consent to the relationship after Chioma confided in him she is in love with a boy from another tribe and despite pleas from Chioma’s mother, her father still didn’t want to hear it.

He wanted to keep the bloodline flowing he said. It isn’t tribalism; he will say in his defence. He might have consented if Chioma was a boy and wanted to bring a woman from another tribe. Since the woman was marrying into their family, to Chioma’s father, the woman was Igbo by marriage but Chioma is a woman and she will marry into another family, another tribe. She will no longer be his or carrying the bloodline.

Her father is pragmatic even after Chioma left for her postgraduate studies to get her masters of medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in the Netherlands but soon he had no choice.
Chioma went to the Netherlands to join Kunle for a full-time program for one-year and it was heaven.

Kunle couldn’t wait to see Chioma having not been able to travel back home, but he made sure he made up for it in cash and in communication. 
Kunle got a part-time job working in a restaurant when Chioma gained admission into the university and he transfers more than half of his earnings to Chioma every month.
Juggling work and school shook Kunle and his 5 year course in computer engineering took him 6 years plus to finish but he finished and got a job.
Chioma lived as a queen throughout her university days as money was never an issue for her. She concentrated on her books and did not have time for social events.

Chioma wasn’t so sociable and kept not many friends-even the opposite sex. She is still traumatised by her past and signed in for martial arts to learn self defence techniques just in case someone else wanted to mess with her.
She realized she enjoyed the sport and continued at it which helped with her figure and kept her healthy.
After graduation, Chioma is posted to Lagos for her youth service and she spent one-year in the same rape clinic, helping other women pass through their ordeal by sharing her own experiences for young girls.

She will quote her mother to them, telling them “Do not destroy your life; do not let this experience limit you. Let it become your motivation to achieve the best in life. My mother told me “You are not the first person to get raped and you will not be the last but you can let these traumas become the reason of your greatness; trust me it will suit you and shame the devil.” Chioma will say and most patients experienced quick recovery afterwards.
She is awarded the most outstanding NYSC corper for her role at the clinic after her service year and the state government gave her scholarship for postgraduate studies so Chioma applied to a school in the Netherlands through Kunle’s help... Kunle is proud of Chioma for her achievements and is elated when her postgraduate admission was a success.

Kunle couldn’t wait to see her and the anxiety was obvious in his workplace. Everyone is anxious just as he was, they couldn’t wait to see Chioma and when the day came to pick Chioma at the airport, Kunle branched over to a jewellery store and purchased a very expensive ring. It cost him his whole salary, but it was worth the buy.
Chioma had not seen it coming and didn’t expect the proposal to in the airport on arrival. It was romantic as Kunle had staged the whole event using a friend who had a sister working at the airport and a colleague whose wife is a flight attendant.
Kunle knelt on one knee and asked a screaming Chioma to marry him.

She said yes.

During her one-year program in Netherlands, they got married and planned for their African wedding.
Chioma’s father had no say in it anymore and he had no choice but to comply. At least that was what Chioma’s joyous and proud mother reminded him of their marriage in court.
Chioma came back home after her postgraduate program and got a temporary job at the general hospital while planning for her wedding.

Her short stay at the general hospital was memorable telling a 48- year-old woman she is expecting her first child after just losing her husband or when she is briefed by a nurse on an incident which had happened in her absence. A man had come into the hospital asking for Chioma in a depressed state, the nurse narrated to Chioma. After telling his story to the nurse on how he had wronged Chioma and wanted to apologise because he hasn’t been able to sleep due to nightmares of his ordeal, the nurse had seen he is not well and had given him Lunesta(eszopiclone); a sleep aid known to cause hallucinations. Not long after the nurse handed the drugs to the disturbed man, had the man popped the pills in his mouth and swallowed. The nurse not knowing the man will take the pills forgot to warn him that the drug takes effect fast. 
In no time did the man take the pills did he stagger, losing his balance and bumping into an accident victim on a stroller who was bleeding and wheeled by doctors into the emergency unit for immediate care. The man had someone else’s blood on his hands and body; he went into shock as nurses came around to make him stable. The head nurse had asked them to lay him in Chioma’s office to rest because he came into the hospital looking for her but Chioma didn’t show up early for work that day due to martial arts practice. Only to be told the whole story when she later arrived by mid-day, she suspects the individual is Jude with the description the nurse gave her of the stranger and knowing he is the only person who has hurt her till date. But the nurse said the man woke up and fled the hospital without waiting for someone to explain why he had blood stains over his hands and body. She never heard from the stranger again.

Chioma’s mother was right; she had said everything will be fine and so far everything has turned out just fine. Her maid of honour walks into the room and announces it 
is time to do the walk through the aisle in Church.

THE END