

# Dysfunctional Family

By Nambayo Sibetta

Copyright © 2018 Nambayo Sibetta

Smashwords Edition

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Also by Nambayo Sibetta

23 YEARS LATER

THE MISERY OF TITANIA

BLACKMAIL

NEW JOB

MEETING OF THE TWO SISTERS

VLAD ATTACKS

RETIREMENT

DEADLY ACCIDENT

FRIENDLY UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

DUNCAN DIES

CLEANSING RITUAL

Also by Nambayo Sibetta

Colour of Fate

Sister's Betrayal

Poultry Farming Guide

Major Chicken Diseases, Prevention, & Cure

How to Smoke Poultry

How to Produce Your Own Chicken Feeds

Standalone

A Cry for Love

How to Last in Bed

African Lover's Guide

Business Analysis for Start-ups

COMING SOON

Entanglements

# Prologue

### ~1994~

Jeanette's tears kept flowing, wondering what she had done wrong, how did this happen?

She watched as blood gushed out through her wrist. She knew she was on her last legs, & she couldn't have it any other way. It was for the best. Her daughter would have to understand.

** *** **

A few hours ago, she, & her friend were delivering two women in the same ward, both of them as professional nurses had taken it upon themselves to deliver the babies since she was a mid-wife & her friend just a nurse, but knew the job well as she had been a nurse for over a decade & already knew the procedure.

The woman her friend was helping deliver bore twins, identical girls; but hers gave birth to only one. All of the babies were girls. As they walked to the babies ward to dress the babies, she realized hers wasn't making sounds anymore. Getting to the baby's ward, Jeanette realized the baby wasn't breathing anymore.

Her: "Leticia the baby is not moving."

She said to her friend, terrified & already panicking. Leticia immediately placed the twins down & walked to her friend who was already crying.

"Jeanette calm down!"

She said softly trying to calm her friend down as she took the dead baby from Jeanette's hands. She soon realized the baby indeed was dead.

"The baby is dead."

She said to Jeanette, herself already shaking. Jeanette had swiftly sat down at the corner of the room crying, a few babies in the ward were already crying like they could sense it all.

"Jeanette this happens, let's just... I don't know...take care of it?"

"Take care of it? How? Leticia the baby is dead."

"I have a plan." _Leticia responded to her frightened friend._

A few minutes later, Leticia & Jeanette had wrapped the dead baby in a black plastic, took one of the twins & registered her in place of the dead baby. They quickly took the black plastic with the dead baby to the back yard of the hospital, dug a hole & buried the baby, then quickly went back to the baby's ward. Jeanette took the twin they had given to the woman whose child had died while Leticia took the other twin then off they went back & gave the two women their babies.

The woman whose other twin baby had been stolen was the first to talk, thrilled to see her baby.

"Oh thank you Jesus, she's so cute, the way my tummy was so huge I thought I was going to deliver twins."

She said holding her baby. Jeanette uncomfortably smiled holding her tears looking at the woman they had stolen one of her children from.

The woman with the dead child just held the stolen baby as hers, smiling, obviously joyful.

"Very beautiful, she's my treasure."

She said with tears cascading her cheeks. Jeanette could no longer hold hers so she walked out leaving Leticia attending to the two ladies. She went straight home without looking back & arriving home she just sat down on the floor crying.

How did it happen? What had she done?

The next day Leticia didn't spot Jeanette anywhere, unlike Jeanette, Leticia didn't have any guilt conscience up in her sleeves, and she refused to feel guilt as all she did was help her friend. She had even moved on.

Later that day at work it was announced that Jeanette was found lifeless by her neighbor, she cut her wrist; Leticia knew Guilt had killed her drastically, leaving her one year old baby girl.

## 23 YEARS LATER

### SCARLET

My reflection on the mirror was adequate enough to make me restrain from the mirror & take my bag. Michelle kept her eyes on me all this while, with a perplexed face as always.

"Are you a lesbian?"

I turned to her, completely stunned. That was a first, she never asks if I'm Lesbian or not, but then I get that from a lot of people.

"My friends say you dress like a tomboy, so you are a Lesbian."

Me: How old are you again?

Her: 11

Me: Good. Now do you see any of your age mates around here?

She shook her head no, probably wondering where I'm going with this.

Me: Now Ms. Smart Mouth, be quick, turn & look at the door & match your eleven years old ass out.

Her mouth dropped open.

Me: Out!

I said one last time, & quickly she stood up & left. After a while Twanda walked in.

Him: Are you working the whole night?

Me: Yeah.

Him: Saving for?

Me: College.

Him: I wish we were like other families.

Me: Well we are not Twanda, so wishing we were the President's kids won't get you anywhere.

Him: Right.

Me: Let me roll.

I walked out leaving him in my room. I went to the kitchen, Mum was serving dinner.

Her: Carl I have served you.

Me: Mum. I'm ok, I have to go to work.

Her: I hate it when you work at night.

Me: I don't understand because I always work at night.

Her: Yesterday I was talking to Jezabella, she said there's a job unoccupied at some jewelry shop in town.

Me: Mum you know Jezabella likes people's things; obviously she was trying to fish out a story from you so she can fill the whole streets on what's going on in your life.

Her: There's really a job vacancy Scarlet, I called them.

Me: It's Carl! & I don't want the job, Mum please! You know Jezabella is the same one who always spread lies about you, about us!

Her: They are expecting you on Monday for an interview.

Me: I can't believe you, look I'm going, and it's getting busy.

Her: Ok, I love you.

Me: Yeah, me too.

And from there I walked out exasperated.

That was my family, Michelle, my younger sister & Twanda, small brother who's 18, then mum. We were not just 4 at first, we were 6, I had a brother & a father but they both passed away a few years ago. My father was from Uganda, no wonder my strange surname, Semakula.

They were involved in a car accident. That was the most painful moment of my life, but then its life, we move on. I walked out of the gate, it was dark but the darkness never really scare me. I work as a bartender at a nearby bar. It was just a few streets away. When my father passed away, everything just spiraled out of control. We had no money so mum had to look for a job that she still has till today.

She's a receptionist at some large Pharmacy company. She gets paid well but it's only a matter of time till they stop her because of old age & look for more fresh people, with qualifications.

Her wage including mine helps around the house & keeps us going each day. Yes at first, it was about saving for school because I really did well on my high school results but unfortunately I didn't get any sponsorship even though I had applied for one. As time went on, I realized mum's salary wasn't really covering up much so I decided to help. We have a car, dad's old Mercedes Benz, which has a lot of problems but that's the only mode of transport we have.

Well, as Michelle had already said, I do dress like a tomboy & not that I'm a Lesbian, just that I always feel more comfortable when I dress like a tomboy. And then there's Jezabella, who happens to be my neighbor. That woman loves Gossip, you would swear she's the goddess of gossip. There's nothing she doesn't know. I walked to work listening to my favorite song.

Roughly 30 minutes later, I had arrived at bar where I work. It is really big & is making a success. I started working here when I was 22 so I know my way around. I got in, and then went behind the counter where Katongo was, but I call him Kat.

Me: Dude.

Him: You early today.

Me: I had a mosquito buzzing nonstop.

He laughed.

Him: Next time you should be like... _'bitch be humble, sit down.'_

I laughed

Me: Next time, let's get the night started!

Him: Yeah.

### TITANIA

"Turn left. Yeah a bit right... good... give me a smile... A devious smile... Good... yeah... a sexy smile... throw it in baby... yeah... that's it... beautiful... We are going to take 5."

Dave said as he put the camera down. I walked away from the pool as one of the interns gave me a towel to wrap around my half naked body.

Dave: You were amazing Tits.

Me: Thank you.

Dave: Yeah. I think the shots we just took are perfect.

Me: That's great.

Dave: Yeah, have you thought about it?

Me: Dave you don't understand. Duncan will hunt us down.

Dave: He's going to kill you. Does he even know you are here?

Me: No!

Dave: Your dad is tremendously rich, but here you are, busy getting beaten up. You have a sister. Who is-...

Me: You know dad doesn't want me, he disowned me for marrying Duncan, & either way Miyo is the golden egg.

Dave: If he knows what's going on then he will take you in, no parent would leave their child to die, he beats you for getting out of the house of all the silly things.

Me: And for sleeping with you! I think we should get back to work.

I walked to my makeup stylist, blinking away my tears, & that's my life.

I met Duncan when I was 21, everything was ok, he loved me, did everything for me, he was that boyfriend who was just perfect. A few months later he proposed, convinced me into marriage. Dad didn't agree but he had no choice. We got married a month later, & then I realized I was pregnant. Being a model & being pregnant is like water & oil. I aborted the baby without Duncan knowing & that's how the abuse started. I can't even tell my parents about it because they will tell me I started it. He forced me to try for another child, & I lost that one naturally. The abuse got even worse.

Just a few weeks ago I slept with Dave. Well, that didn't go well because Duncan beat me up until I passed out & I woke up with a big face. He blamed me, & I knew he was right. If I didn't abort the baby all of this wouldn't be happening. If I didn't cheat on him then he wouldn't have to beat me up. We do go for couple counseling but then nothing works.

After a while we were back at the shoot. After we were done, quickly I packed my things & drove to the penthouse. I had to get there before him because I'm not allowed to go out of the house. I got inside the yard & his car wasn't in the garage, indicating he wasn't home yet. I took a deep breath of relief as I took the elevator. When I got inside the house, I went to the kitchen to drink water.

_"_ So we are back,"

He said making me drop the glass I was holding & turning to him, my heart was beating fast, he was going to kill me today.

Him: Now we don't talk?

### MIYOBA

I fixed my skirt as I walked inside my office. I placed my laptop down as my Personal Assistant followed behind me.

Her: Ms. Hichilema welcome.

Me: Betty!

Her: Here's your coffee.

Me: On the table.

Her: You have a meeting with people from the law firm.

Me: Ok what time again?

Her: 10:00 hrs.

Me: Ok, my mum is coming in right now, Please go get her from the reception.

Her: Yes Ma'am.

Me: And yeah, whilst you are at it, please tell security to never let Anthony in again.

Anthony is my current ex-boyfriend or ex douchebag rather. We broke up 2 weeks ago due to... well I lost interest. Just then my phone started ringing. It was Jeffery, my best friend.

Me: Poodle.

Him: CR7.

Me: What's up?

Him: Anthony called me.

Me: Gosh! I'm fed up.

Him: What did he do?

Me: I don't know... I got bored?

Him: Miyo... you got to stop all this shit.

Me: What did you want me to do?

I said sitting down.

Him: Try make things work?

Me: I didn't feel it anymore.

Him: Whatever! Still on for the drinks tonight?

Me: Yeah, why not?

Him: Maybe you might, you know catch a hottie?

I laughed but swallowed my laugh as my mother walked in. She & I don't really get along because of my father. I & my father are like water & oil. We don't get along at all but I'm their only child so they have to tolerate it.

Mum: Yoyo!

Me: Mother!

I stood up & hugged her.

Mum: How's office life?

Me: Okay, how are you? The check up?

Mum: Sweetheart you know how doctors are.

Me: You have blood pressure, you need to listen to them.

Mum: I know, butI was hoping we go out for breakfast.

Me: Ok, I bought a new car.

I said standing up.

Mum: That's great, only the best for you baby.

We walked out to my new Audi 8.

Mum: When am I meeting your boyfriend?

Me: When I find one?

Mum: Yoyo... you are growing up.

Me: I'm only 24. There's no hurry & it's... gosh Mother! I hate that name... Jesus me!

Mum: I'm sorry, your dad! He's losing his patience with you.

Me: What does he want?

Mum: He's going to wed you.

Me: Yeah. Tell him that will never happen. What about the company?

Mum: The son in law-...

Me: That's not happening! Friendly Fashions is mine! & mine alone!

Mum: Calm down.

Me: I own 52% of the company! It's mine nobody can vote me out. As for dad, tell him to fuck himself.

# _CHAPTER 1_

## THE MISERY OF TITANIA

### SCARLET

Me: 2 cocktails coming up.

Quickly I poured the cocktails into 2 glasses & hand them to the guy who had asked for them. It was now around 22: 45hrs.

"Hey!"

A voice called out making me turn.

Me: Yes?

Him: Ciders... & keep them coming.

Me: Right up.

I gave him the ciders. Kat was behind me, wiping the glasses.

Him: Hey, I forgot to ask.

Me: Yeah?

Him: Do you still feel like you are being followed?

Me: Well yeah, sometimes.

I have been having that feeling of being watched for the past week now, but it doesn't really scare me, but then, a lot of shit happens these days.

Him: Maybe it's time to report to the police.

Me: Are you kidding? No, cops is just inviting more trouble, I will deal with it, plus if there's anything I will handle it my own way.

Him: Tell me something. Are you a gangster?

Me: Gang-what?

Him: Whatever... just that life is dangerous & I do hope you never get into it.

Me: Stop being crazy.

Him: Ok but you have to tell someone.

Me: Yeah!

"What the fuck man? I told you to keep them coming"

I looked to where the voice is coming from, they always annoy me when they are drunk, I swear one day I'll throw someone out through the window.

Kat: Dog dick!

Kat whispered as he poured more shots for the guy, & this is how it's always like. I can't complain because I love doing what I do. Being a bartender isn't my dream job but it does make me happy.

"Hi, can I have absolute vodka please!"

A voice said, much huskier than anything I have ever heard. I looked to where the voice was coming from.

Me: Coming right up.

I said taking a glass & opening the vodka for him.

Him: With ice please.

Me: Ok, Kat.

Kat: Yes?

Me: More ice.

Kat: A sec.

He disappeared to the fridge then came back with ice blocks. I dropped 2 into his glass then gave it to him. Handing the glass to him, I got the chance to actually see his face. He was just fine I guess at least he's not throwing no attitude at me. I have never really been interested in guys because there's no guy who ever interest me that much, even at high school, well maybe one or two.

I gave him the glass then retreated.

"Are you a man or woman?"

Another voice says, & this time I turned already turned off.

It was just some guy... looked fancy & all the shit.

Me: Are you blind or just trying hard to be stupid?

Him: Oh... You are a she!

Me: And you are some dumb ass.

Him: Dry vodka.

I poured him the dry vodka.

Him: I see you are feisty. I like aggressive women.

I just chuckled & moved away from him. I would hate it to regret my words tomorrow. A few hours more & we were closing. Only a few people where inside the bar.

Me: Party time over, let's get going.

I said to some lady who was now sleeping on the table. Trust alcohol to do this to you. I shook her a bit & that's when she finally opened her eyes.

Me: Time to go.

Her: I want another glass.

Me: I want you to go home.

Her: I'm paying.

Me: I know that, now stand.

I helped her stand up & led her out. When I came back inside, Kat was already packing His things.

Me: Night went well.

Him: Yeah. I'm super tired.

Me: Me too.

Him: Let's go. I will walk you to your house.

Me: Nope. I'm fine.

Him: Carl!

Me: I'm serious, I'm good.

Him: I'm not arguing with you.

Me: Are you still dating Charity?

Him: Yeah but you know how it is.

Me: Go home, surprise her.

Him: I know what you trying to do.

Me: Kat, go sort your relationship.

Him: I will, after I know you are safe.

Me: Ok, I will take a cab home.

Him: Ok, let's go.

We walked outside with him locking up. I stretched my arms as we walked to the road.

He's phone rang.

Him: Hello? Yeah... Ok I'm coming. Relax I'm coming.

Then he hung up.

Me: Everything ok?

Him: No. Mum just had a seizure again.

Me: Oh my goodness, go.

Him: Shit! What about you?

He was now shaking.

Me: The fuck? Nigga I can take care of myself. You go home.

His house was just a few minutes away.

Him: Ok bye.

He said already running. My heart was also beating fast, what if that was my mum. I know we don't always click but I never want to lose her. Not after I lost my father & brother. There was no cab coming so I decided to just go home. I started walking, then I saw a car behind me.

I still walked, not bothering about it. After a while, it was still behind me, at slow speed like it was following me. My heart started beating fast, this has never happened before, only in movies. I took out my phone wanting to call Vlad, my friend who knows his way around with a few illegal shit. But then it was late. I'm sure his girlfriend would throw a feet. I put my phone away & started walking fast. As I walked I was looking for some corner to run to, at times like this being smart & street wise works out best. The car got much closer to me that I even wished I wasn't there. I picked up a brick, for just in case. The window of the car rolled as the car was now next to me.

_"Hey"_ a voice said, a male voice rather. It was a familiar voice. I looked at him & yes, it was the guy of the absolute vodka.

Me: What the fuck?

Him: I'm not a kidnapper.

Me: So why in God's name are you following me around?

Him: Trying to make sure nothing happens to you?

Me: What the fuck is wrong with shit ass niggas these days? So?

He smiled then stopped his car, I didn't stop walking. Pissed, couldn't even explain how I felt that moment. After a while I heard the car door closing & foot steps behind me.

Him: By the way I'm Oliver, you can call me Oli.

I just kept my silence, not willing to entertain him.

Him: Mute? Ok.

He walked with me until I was just two yards away from my house.

Me: Mr. What-ever your fucking name is, I think you should go now.

Him: Are you home?

Me: You left your car in the middle of nowhere, aren't you scared that they will remove some parts from it?

Him: No, but I'm scared they will remove some parts from you.

Me: Hey you don't know me, & one thing I'm sure about is that the street thugs won't be so happy about your presence, can you just go back? You're draining my energy.

He just stood there, looking at me. He wasn't backing down & he was irritating.

He finally went away when I literally had to get at my neighbor's yard, pretending that's where I stay. After I was sure he was gone I walked home & as usual I took my spare keys from my bag, unlocked then silently walked in my room. I took off my beanie as I sat on the bed. I wanted to text Kat but then it was late & maybe he's still busy at the hospital.

### TITANIA

He walked towards me, my heartbeat accelerated. I couldn't read his facial expression & this made it super scary.

Him: Were you with him again?

I was shaking, my mind just froze that instant. My heart wanted to leap out of my chest.

Him: Tits, I'm talking to you. You were with him again, isn't it?

Me: I'm... I'm sorry.

Tears poured.

Him: How would you feel if I hang out with the whores I cheat on you with?

He walked up to me & picked me up placing me on the kitchen stool.

Him: How would you feel? Are you still fucking him?

Me: No. I'm not.

I shook my head. He retreated from me but before I knew it my cheek was burning, he had slapped so hard that I fell from the stool hitting the tiles hard.

Him: How many times must I talk about this whoring tendencies?

I tried getting up but I was in too much pain to even support myself up. I could taste blood in my mouth. He came towards me & picked me up, walked with me to our bedroom & threw me on my bed. I hissed as the pain got worse, tears were just there doing what they do best.

Him: You little whore! After making you, is this how you repay me? Huh?

He went to his closet & took his belt.

Me: I'm sorry... please... Duncan please...

Him: What the fuck am I doing wrong? Aren't I giving you everything? You spend my money like I pluck it from trees but yet you cheat on me, better still you kill my children like pests!

He was mad, super mad poetry couldn't describe it. When he started beating me, I knew there's no stopping him. The beast was unleashed. He beat me like tomorrow doesn't exist, like he wanted to kill me. I could feel my skin peel off with every stroke.

After a while my body was numb but he kept on going & going. Tears even stopped falling. He stopped after a while, breathing hard. Grabbed me by my leg so that I fall down from the bed then dragged me to the bathroom. He picked me up from the floor. The tub was filled with water which had ice. My heart started pounding hard, I tried to talk but I just couldn't seem to take the words out of my mouth. My mouth hurt, he placed me in the icy water that froze my body.

Him: That's for your whoring tendencies!

He said before tying my hands with handcuffs to the taps, then also tying my legs together.

Him: Enjoy the punishment babe.

He kissed me passionately before walking out, leaving me dying. It was a hurtful passion.

I was woken up by a slap, I opened my eyes but I still felt weak, my eyes were even giving up on me. Duncan stood in front of me, smoking.

Him: Enjoying?

My whole body was trembling even though I was just numb.

Him: You know you just made me cancel the plans I had for us today? All because you can't keep your legs closed.

He threw his cigarette down then came towards me & freed my hands, & got me out of the tub. My skin colour had just died out. He threw me on the bed, then turn on the air-conditioner.

Him: Meredith is here, we are discussing our new business deal, stay here if you know what's good for you.

I couldn't even move, I had curled my body into a small ball. I knew there's no business meeting he's discussing other than fucking her. I know he has been sleeping with her, reason why I slept with Dave in the first place. He's been sleeping with her ever since I aborted our baby. A tear rolled down as he walked out. Which business deal could possibly be discussed at this hour of the night? I knew he was probably fucking her this moment but I wanted to see with my own eyes, so with my frozen body I slowly got up, took one of his shirts & slowly wore it then walked out of the bedroom.

Getting at the stairs I could hear the moans, I didn't have to walk any further to confirm it. If it was that easy I could have walked away, & never looked back but apart from the fact that he will kill me, he will destroy me in a blink of an eye. I walked back to our bedroom just thinking. I wanted out, & this time I would rather die if it's the case.

I waited for him till he finally came, he was a bit surprised to see me still awake.

Him: Why are you awake?

Me: You slept with her didn't you?

His upper body was naked, & his jean was undone. It was proof enough & not to mention the scratches he had on his body.

Him: Who?

Me: Meredith.

Him: You are the last person to talk about cheating.

Me: It was only once!

Him: Cheating is cheating. I'm going to take a shower.

Me: So you are sleeping with her?

Him: Tits can you stop fucking irritating me? I'm not the one who goes around aborting babies or who goes around opening my legs to every Jack & Jill of the streets. No wonder your own parents don't want you, you are nothing but an embarrassment to them. I'm sure your mother even regrets you.

I kept quiet, this is what he always does.

Him: Busy acting like a prostitute in my house, your whoring propensities have no level!

Me: I want out!

I finally managed to say.

Him: You what?

Me: I said I want out... I want a divorce Duncan... then you & your little Meredith can fuck freely.

He laughed.

Him: You know you are who you are because of me sweetie, without me you nothing.

Me: Then I'd rather be nothing.

He walked towards me then grabbed my arm tightly.

He took me to the vault & threw me there.

Me: You cannot keep me here forever you dog!

I got welcomed by a strong slap that led me to the ground.

Him: Maybe a week will do you good.

I stood up.

Me: Please don't leave me here.

I was now crying.

Me: Babe please. I'm sorry!

I know Duncan can lock me up for weeks. I couldn't have that. I needed to escape.

Me: Please!

Him: Not a chance. You are staying here tonight. Maybe this will teach your whoring ass a moral!

### MIYOBA

I sat with Jeff at far corner table in the club. The club was just too dull. I was starting to get bored.

Him: CR7... look... no! Don't look just... oh fuck!

Me: What?

Him: Girl Mr. Quinton Lance is coming our... no this side.

I turned to look, involuntary though. I'm not a fan of colored men, never have been, but I swear Quinton just changes my views. He walked in, in his suit, looking good as always. He even looked hotter in person than what I always see on TV or over the phone, or newspaper. I didn't even realize I was starring till Jeff had to kick me from under the table.

Him: And then? Girl y'all cannot be gazing at a nigga like that!

Me: Why? He's hot as shit!

Him: Girl! It's wrong. Spell wrong. W then R, O & N then a G... WRONG!

Me: Maybe. Oh God, maybe I can like... propose that his company handles my-...

Him: That's being desperate. Niggas hate desperate girls. Hell no!

Me: I was just suggesting.

Him: Well, wrong suggestion! You look tense. What is it?

Me: A lot of shit that I want to forget tonight.

Him: What happened now?

Me: Apparently dad wants to marry me off.

He started laughing.

Him: Are you being serious right now?

Me: Yeah. I'm going to get us shots.

Him: Let me come with you.

We walked together.

Him: Anyway, what happened with your ex?

Me: I don't know. Sometimes you fall out of love or whatever you call it.

Him: You were never in love with him to begin with. The only person you ever loved was Natsu.

Me: Don't tell me about high school. I still hate that place. I just hate my dad for sending me away to the boarding school.

Him: You hate your dad for everything.

Me: Yeah, sometimes I wonder what would have happened if maybe I had different parents, maybe if I never stayed with Claudia, Maybe-...

Him: Don't do that to yourself.

Me: I'm going to him.

I said standing up & fixing my skirt. He was alone on his table.

Jeff: They surely don't call you Miyo for nothing.

He said as I walked up to him. I smiled as I got to his table, he raised his head & looked at me.

Me: Can I seat?

Him: Sure? Why not?

I smiled as I sat down.

Me: I'm Miyo.

Him: Nice to meet you.

Me: I was hoping we could get to know each other.

He leaned back then looked at me with squinted eyes.

Him: What's your name again?

Me: Miyo, I'm Miyo

One drink, became two, three & so forth. I was really drowning myself in alcohol.

Him: Wanna go out? Out of here?

Me: I was wondering when you were going to ask.

He helped me stand up then walked with me outside, to his car I guess. I didn't protest. He drove to some hotel I guess, & immediately the moment we got inside the hotel room clothes were already flying. Even though I was drunk but he's rough deep thrusts were able to make me sober. Even though he was rough I loved every minute of it. He knew his way in bed. Waking up the following morning, I was alone on the bed. There was a note on the bed. I took it & read it.

"Hey, morning. Really had a great time yesterday. See you around"

The note had money wrapped in it. I laughed. Did he think maybe I was a Hooker? I looked around looking for my phone, & thank God I found my handbag. I took out my phone & there were two missed calls from dad. Shit!

I dialed his number as I staggered out of bed.

Him: Miyoba!

Me: Father!

Him: You need to come home, we have to talk

Me: I'm going to be busy with-...

Him: Does it sound like I care?

Me: Father-

Him: Miyoba, do what you want but I want you home tomorrow early morning, your bride price negotiations are taking place.

I started laughing.

Me: My what?

Him: Your dowry is going to be paid for tomorrow, you need to be there.

Me: My bride price? You must be joking. I'm not getting married to no one's son!

Him: We will see about that. Miyoba don't think I'm joking because I'm not.

Me: What... What about the company?

Him: Your husband will-...

Me: No! & I'm not coming!

Him: Miyoba! Watch-...

Me: I'm not getting married & that's that... simple as that.

Him: Then you leave me with no choice but to remove you from my company.

Me: Remove me? I own 52%-...

Him: You think you do, those shares are still mine Young lady, in case you have forgotten. If I were you I would avail myself because if you don't! If you don't Miyoba, you will regret it young lady.

I threw my phone against the wall, but then picked it up after a while. Sometimes I wonder if my father is my father because sometimes I don't understand how he treats me, like I'm not his child.

Ever since my young age, that also includes sending me to boarding school, I guess it was because he hated me, he still does. I sat down on the bed. I worked so hard to take over the family business, all my life this is what I looked forward to & now suddenly it was being taken away from me. I couldn't let that happen, I wasn't going to let that happen no matter what. Quickly I put on my clothes then walked out from the hotel room after throwing the note & the money in my handbag. It still seemed funny to me that he would think I'm a hooker.

Walking out I called Jeff. Nigga hadn't even tried calling me.

Him: Oh you're alive. Praise the Lord!

Me: He thinks I'm hooker.

Him: I would also think so.

Me: What's that supposed to mean?

Him: Girl, you were literally throwing yourself at him.

Me: So?

Him: Only hookers play such kind of games. Why are you calling this time...? I'm tired, I want to sleep.

Me: You got yourself some dick?

Him: Why not? At least mine is still here. Where is yours? Gone?

Me: Obviously. Even left me money. My dad is getting me married.

Him: Arranged marriages long stopped.

Me: Tell that to my father, I really think I'm not his-...

Him: Don't talk like that... you know he's also like that with your sister.

Me: She did herself a big favor by getting herself disowned because if she had stayed. I don't know.

Him: Maybe the guy you are getting married to is hot.

Me: I don't care if his hot or not! All I know is I'm not getting married. Quinton yesterday was-...

Him: Quinton? Don't tell me you like him Miyo.

Me: No I don't. But what if I do?

Him: You will never have him!

### SCARLET

The following day the first thing I did was to call him, he's phone rang unanswered for a few seconds then got answered finally.

Me: Kat!

Him: Hey it's Charity.

Me: Oh, where is he?

Her: He...

Me: Talk!

Her: His mum, Bethany. She passed on last night.

I thought I didn't get her correctly but my heart had already started its own marathon.

Me: What?

Her: She had a heart attack?

Me: She's gone!?

Her: I think you should come.

Me: Clearly.

I walked to the bathroom & took a quick bath. It's not easy losing someone you love. Bethany is all that Kat had, that was his pillar of strength. I kept wondering how he's holding up. Quickly I dressed up in my Chino jeans, with a black top, black converse & a black cap. Getting inside the kitchen I found mum sitting by the dining table in total silence with Jezabella who was talking. She was already dressed up for work.

Me: Morning.

Her: Have you heard?

Me: Heard? Heard about-...

I soon kept quite as I got what she was talking about, then just nodded. She also nodded then went back to her silence.

Her: You know life is precious Carl, life is very precious.

Jezabella: Very, I always tell Sabina that in Australia where she is studying, she should...

Trust this woman to say shit like this.

Me: Mummy can I make you tea?

Mum: Not so long ago I was with her, she looked ok to me, not once did I ever think that something like this would happen.

Me: I'm going there now.

Her: Me too. Let's go.

Jezabella: Let's leave together. Such a shame.

She said standing up. This really had gotten to my mother. We walked out to the car. Twanda was already gone together with Michelle I guess because they leave before my mother goes to work. She drove us to Bethany's house & we were welcomed by a large crowd of people. We walked inside the house, I was looking for Kat. Walking inside I spotted Charity.

Me: Hey!

She stopped & turned. I walked up to her.

Me: Where's he?

Her: Come!

She walked with me to the back room. He was there, sitting on the floor at the corner of the room in total silence. I walked up to him & sat beside him.

Me: Hey.

Him: Carl. Arrived safely yesterday?

Me: Yeah.

Him: I came late, maybe if I arrived a little bit early... Then I don't know...

Me: You did your best.

I have never been that kind of person who can offer emotional support. I never know where to even start with any emotion whatsoever.

Him: This is the time you give me a hug Carl.

Me: Yeah, sorry.

I put my hand on his back then pat him softly.

He stood up making me stand with him.

Him: Let me teach you... this is how you hug.

He wrapped his hands around me. I just stood there, I'm not really used to this kind of hugs or being so close with anyone like this physical contact. He left me after a while.

Him: That's how it's done.

He was looking at me, like really looking at me that I even started feeling like there was something wrong with me.

Me: Is there something on my face?

Him: Nah... You are just...

Me: What?

I don't know how but without warning, he smashed his lips on mine, kissing them. Myself instinct, quickly shut down immediately. He pulled out.

Him: I..ummh I'm sorry.

I walked out quickly, not looking back, not giving care if he was screaming my name or what. Katongo & I have been friends for some time now, we may not be that close but we are friends. I've always had a problem with female company. The fact that he kissed me, even though we are friends left me fazed. My body just felt numb as I walked down the street going home.

### TITANIA

I held the fire extinguish, then hit the door hard with it, but the door wasn't budging, not even a little bit. I threw it on the floor, frustrated, angry. Duncan did make me sleep in the vault, it wasn't the first time. I just wanted a divorce, I was done now. I sat down trying to think of another way out. Just then I heard the door being unlocked & he opened it & walked towards me.

Duncan: Slept well?

I kept quiet.

Duncan: If you would stop cheating on me Tits.

I still kept quite as he looked around.

Duncan: Still want a divorce baby?

He said walking past me. He had his back on me so I slowly stood up with the fire extinguish then hit him on his back with it, making him stumble & fall. I raced out of the arch as he cursed. I ran to the bedroom & got my car keys that were on the dressing table, then my handbag which always has all my travelling documents. After that I raced to the elevator then out from the building.

Him: Well done baby! I've always known you were smart... I know you always had it in you.

He said as I approached my car. I unlocked my car then tried to get in but he was too fast to grab my hand.

He slapped me hard then threw me on the ground.

Him: You think you can run away from me Tits?

He came over to me & started kicking me endlessly. After a while he was using his belt but I felt numb & weak. Silently I closed my eyes then darkness took over.

# CHAPTER 2

## BLACKMAIL

### SCARLET

The rest of the day was just numb for me, everything didn't seem real. What happened kept on replaying over & over in my head like a song on repeat, making me shut my eyes tightly, trying to erase my memory. I couldn't just seem to wrap my mind around it all. He had tried to call a few times but I just couldn't talk to him so I ended up switching off my phone. I spent the whole day at home because again, I was going to be taking the night shift, usually I take it with Kat but tonight I'm not sure because he might have gotten himself a leave due to the sudden death of his mother. I was rather relieved at that thought because I don't think I can face him right now.

Later that day I was sitting with Twanda on my bed.

Him: I'm hoping that maybe I get sponsorship.

Me: Me too.

Him: You seem quite today, what's up?

Me: Nothing, Just Bethany's death.

Him: It's such a shame.

Me: Yeah.

Him: How's Kat holding up?

Me: Fine I guess, look, let me go to work.

I said taking my bag.

Him: Can I come with you?

Me: It's full of drunkards, I don't want you to be exposed to that kind of environment.

Him: Come on, I'm 18 not 8.

Me: Mum would trip & what about Michelle? She needs to be with someone since mum will be at the funeral.

Him: Yeah... it's ok.

Me: I'm gone!

I said walking out, I passed Michelle who was watching TV.

Michelle: Carl?

I stopped on my tracks & looked at her.

Me: Yeah?

Michelle: I saw Travor today.

My heart stopped, Travor is my late brother. I looked at her.

Me: you what?

Michelle: Nothing

Me: Michelle!

Michelle: I said its nothing.

I walked out. Travor? I brushed my mind over it, Michelle really loves playing mind games. Getting to work Kat wasn't there, only Nate, the manager.

Him: Carl! You are early.

Me: I'm always early.

Him: Today you will be with me, Kat lost his mother, and I'm sure you heard.

Me: Yeah.

Him: I'm sure we will manage, Fridays are always busy.

Me: Yes

Him: Good! I'm coming.

He then walked out leaving me handling a few customers that were there. Fridays are always busy as he said. Usually Katongo & I always find the fun in the pressure Fridays give. After a while it was getting full. Keeping busy helped take my mind off some things.

As I wiped some glasses I heard someone call me. I looked back. It was just some guy.

Him: Hello.

Me: Hi.

Him: Can I please have-...

Just then Nate came towards me.

Nate: The place has just been booked right now Carl.

He whispered.

I looked at him.

Me: What?

Him: For $3000, just for tonight.

Me: Who booked it?

Him: Someone I don't know. They want to use this place for something.

Me: You don't even know what they are using this place for, you don't even know the people. What if they are using it for illegal activities?

Him: I'm the manager Carl, not the other way round. We are closing.

He said walking away leaving me confused.

"Hello?"

The guy I was serving said.

Me: I'm sorry about that.

Him: You guys are closing?

Me: Seems like it.

Him: OK. Then I should probably go.

Me: Yeah. Sorry for whatever this is.

He smiled.

Him: It's ok.

He then walked out. Getting people out of the bar was hard. People had come to have fun but now they were being asked to leave, it wasn't even 20:00hrs yet. We spent almost 30 minutes to get everyone out.

Nate: Thank God they are gone.

Me: Am I also going?

Nate: Yeah. We all are going.

I took my bag then got out. My mind was busy contemplating on what to do either go to Kat's house or going home.

I found myself walking towards Kat's house.

### TITANIA

Waking up again I was in the hospital, I closed my eyes. How did I get myself in this hell hole? I looked around & the nurse & Doctor were busy writing something.

Dr: Finally you are awake!

Me: Doctor.

Dr: Nurse a moment please.

The nurse nodded then walked out.

Dr: What happened Mrs. Roads?

Me: I... My husband. He beat me up.

Today I wasn't going to lie, I wanted out.

Dr: What?

Me: He beat me up. He always does it.

Dr: Are you ok Mrs. Roads?

Me: Am I ok? I'm not... he's going to kill me. Please help me.

Dr: Any reason why you never reported him?

Me: I'm sure he has the cops under his payroll. Please

Dr: Mrs. Roads, you fell on the stairs after overdosing antidepressants.

I laughed.

Me: I'm not depressed. I got beat by my husband! I didn't overdose any pills or fall down the stairs, he beat me up.

Dr: I'm going to give you something. Its ok, you are in the rightful place. A minute I'm coming.

He then walked out. It didn't take me much longer to realize that this doctor is probably under Duncan. Before I could move some guy got in, wearing a hoody & a cap. His face was hidden under the cap. I started getting scared.

He removed the cap, & it was Dave.

Me: Oh God! Thank God it's you... I want out. I want a divorce Dave but he's going to kill me.

I said ignoring the pain that had me. Every part of my body was painful, I even had a bandage on my forehead.

Him: I thought so too. Take, I have organized you a fake passport, & some more fake travelling documents. There's a car waiting for you outside. You are going to have to leave this place because Duncan has his people on you. Get inside that car & it will lead you to the airport. There's a plane leaving in 30 minutes to Dubai. From Dubai you are going to board another plane to Zambia. It's time to go home Tits, when you arrive in Zambia, someone will be waiting for you at the airport, her name is Mwangala. Stick with that person & she will make sure your divorce will be taken care of by the best law firm. You have 5 minutes to get to that car.

He threw some bag on top of the bed.

Him: Wear that. Call me as soon as you are in Zambia. Oh, your new name is Vanessa Bruts.

And he was gone. Quickly I stood up & took off the hospital gown then changed into the clothes he had left for me. It was a jean & hoody, with sneakers, a wig with a cap. After changing, I took the travelling documents then walked out from the room. Rushed outside. Indeed there was a car that was parked

Immediately I got inside it started moving. My heart was beating fast as the car moved. It stopped at the airport. Quickly I got off then rushed inside. I was very scared as they were scanning through my fake passport but it seemed real to them. Sitting down in the plane I felt some sense of relief, finally I was free, I have made it. I wiped my tears away as I lay my head back. Finally I was free.

### MIYOBA

I looked at the documents my lawyer gave me. Dad was right; the 52% was legally his. I gulped down the wine that was in my glass. He had me where he wanted. I wasn't going to run the company either way because even if I get married, the person I'm going to be getting married to will be running the company & even if I refuse he will just kick me out because I practically own nothing in the company.

My lawyer suggested that I call a board meeting tomorrow morning, & have the shareholders vote on making me the official CEO of the company because at the moment I was still the acting CEO. Besides that, I had a plan, one of the shareholders is selling his shares & I heard he likes sexy young girls a lot. I walked to my room then wore my red jacket & my heels. Maybe a little convincing that he sells them to me, & a bit of blackmailing. He was the second shareholder who owned a lot of shares from dad. He owns 20%. His 20% is enough to keep me within the company. I took my car keys & drove to the hotel he lives.

After doing my research, I found out that he didn't come with his wife so it was an advantage to me. Getting to his hotel room, I i passed by the receptionist who winked at me. I softly knocked on his hotel room. The old man opened the door after a while.

Him: Ms. Hichilema.

Me: Mr. Sikanyika.

I bit my Lower lip that he swallowed.

Him: Wanna come in?

Me: Yes.

He moved away from the door. I walked in.

Him: I didn't know you would be coming, especially this late.

I smiled taking off my jacket, so that I could be left with my black lingerie. His eyes popped out as he gawked at me lustfully.

I walked up to him.

Me: I have a deal for you Mr. Sikanyika.

He nodded.

Me: I want those shares you are selling.

I whispered in his ear softly.

Me: And in exchange of me buying them, you get all of this!.

I said squeezing my boobs.

Me: What do you say?

Him: I... I... there are other... Other people who-...

Me: I will make you extremely happy Mr. Sikanyika.

Him: Yes.

Me: So what do you say?

Him: Yes. I will talk to my lawyers.

Me: How about now?

I asked taking the lingerie off.

Him: Ok.

He went over to his phone & started pressing it with shaking hands as I took off his rob then started caressing his dick.

Him: I'm selling my shares to... to Ms. Hichilema. Yes... yes... ok.

He then hung up.

Him: They shall be sold to you.

By this time my Victoria's secret panties were lying on the floor. This old slag was about to run me through tonight. _(Lucky bustard)_

Me: You are such a good boy.

I stood up & pushed him on the bed then sat on him, slowly sliding his length in my now throbbing and wet pink oven, feeling his every inch as his girth kept bulging inside me. I watched him roll his eyes back into his skull. The old man was really satisfied; he couldn't stop praising me as I rode him. Until I felt a gush of pressure erupting from his prick busting into my womb, filling my walls and tickling my fancy. It was nicer than I expected.

After we were done I wore my clothes & left after collecting the memory stick from the receptionist. Dad won't know what hit him.

Getting home I was welcomed by Jeff who was sitting on the couch drinking wine.

Him: So you went ahead with your plan.

He was totally against the plan because to him it made me cheap.

Me: So you'd rather I get married?

Him: How was the sex? Did you cum? Would you still want some more?

Me: Does it matter?

He started laughing.

Him: Of cause it does. Did you cum with Mr. Quinton?

Me: I have been trying not to think about him the whole day.

Him: How much did he leave?

I looked at him, trust my friend to be like this. Jeff & I met in high school. He was a loner all because the other students regarded him being gay as twaddle so no one ever hang out with him. I was a new comer by then & so we made perfect friends. From then we have been so close, more than anything. He is the only one who understands me.

Me: K1000. ($100)

He started laughing.

Him: Other people get less, your pussy game must be fire.

Me: Mxm. I still can't believe he thought I'm a hooker.

Him: I'm sorry. So tomorrow? What are you going to do?

Me: I have my sex tape with Mr. Sikanyika, if he thinks I'm a little stupid girl then he got it all wrong. I want those shares, & I'm going to get them, whether he likes it or not.

Him: That's my girl! So you're not going to show up at your bride price negotiations?

Me: Showing or not, he's still going to wed me so I might as well just stay.

Him: You are supposed to go with your in-laws.

Me: I will only agree to be married if he gives me the 52%.

Him: What are you smoking again?

I laughed as I sat down.

Me: Things are looking up.

Him: Yes! Maybe we should take a vacation. You know.

Me: A vacation?

Him: Yes, to Hawaii maybe... the beach?

Me: That would be great. After I get the shares.

Him: Great!

A vacation seemed good to me. I have been working so hard & I deserve a break.

### SCARLET

Yesterday I didn't arrive at Kat's house; I went home when I was a few yards from his. Getting home I had just crawled into my bed & slept. The following morning I was woken up by noise. It seemed like Twanda was already awake, hence the noise. He always makes noise during weekends & nobody can stop him & not that I'm complaining, we have the same taste. I walked outside & he was cleaning the car, singing along to the music.

The way he was dancing was enough to make me laugh that he turned & looked at me.

Me: Who taught you how to dance like overcooked chicken?

Him: Mxm. Mum left for the funeral, she says you should land for support.

Me: Later.

Him: Let's go buy bread, I'm hungry.

Me: The heck? You were waiting for me all along? What if I didn't wake up?

Him: You did, that's the main line.

Me: Michelle?

Him: Went out to the neighbour's houses.

I walked back inside the house. Weekends are usually slow & boring for me & because of that it's rare to find me home. It's either I would be with Vlad & his crew or at the graveyard. I took a quick bath then changed into my loose Adidas sweatpants, a vest then a hoody with some Adidas sneaker not forgetting my Adidas cap. I had a cornrow, I always have cornrow in my head but I was planning to do dreadlocks. I walked out & Twanda was putting away the buckets he had been using.

Me: Let's go.

Him: Let's use the car.

Me: And the old lady? You know how she is.

Him: It's this once. Let's go.

He opened the passenger's door for me. After a lot of hesitation I finally jumped inside the car & so did he. We drove to the tuck-shop with the radio on full explosion.

The tuck-shop was a street away, a five minutes' walk. Getting there we got off & Twanda went to buy the bread. As I looked around I saw a car park alongside mum's. Oliver or whatever he calls himself got off the car. He smiled as he walked towards me.

Him: Hey.

I kept quite looking at Twanda who was now paying.

Him: Still mute I see?

Twanda finally came back.

Me: We go?

Twanda: Yes.

Oliver: Hey, wait!

Me: What's your problem?

Oliver: Can we talk? For a sec?

Me: I'm about to insult someone's mother! Nigga get lost!

Just then I caught sight of Michelle. She was surrounded by her friends & they were screaming. Slowly I walked up to them & what I saw was enough to shrink my whole body. Her face had just changed, her eyes had rolled back. Her dress was tattered. It was like something had possessed her.

I walked over to her with Twanda who was now behind me.

Me: Michelle!

She turned to me.

She let an involuntary loud scream before collapsing to the ground. I rushed over to her, she wasn't moving, she was completely still. I tried feeling her pulse with my shaking hands & I couldn't feel anything.

Me: Michelle? Baby?

I said as I held her in my arms.

### TITANIA

I turned to look & it was some lady.

Her: Titania? I'm Mwangala.

I smiled out of relief.

Her: Scared you?

She asked as we walked to the parking lot.

Me: Kind of.

Her: Your face is pretty messed up.

I always avoid looking at my face every time after Duncan hurt me because I know that he would have rearranged it.

We got inside the car then she started driving away.

Her: You are going to be staying with me for a while, well until I don't know. Do you have a relative you may want to call?

Me: Ummh... For now no!

Her: Ok.

She drove to her apartment I guess. It was simple but nice. I loved the simplicity.

Her: Okay, I stay here, it's just a simple 3 bedrooms house & I share it with my brother.

Me: Okay.

Her: You will use the other room, come.

I followed her to the room she was talking about.

Her: Here, an-...

She got cut off by her phone ringing. She answered it looking at me.

Her: Yes. It's really messed up, don't worry, I got her. Ok.

She hand me her phone.

Me: Hallo?

Caller: Hey. It's me.

It was Dave.

Me: Oh hey... I just arrived.

Him: How are you finding the place?

Me: It's okay, I still can't believe this is happening.

Him: It is, you are safe there with Mwangala.

Me: What about you?

Him: There's a reason why Duncan never comes closer to me, Keep safe Tits.

Me: Of course.

Him: You will stay with Mwangala till things are ok. Till Duncan is no longer a threat.

Me: Ok.

Him: We will talk.

Me: Ok, cheerio.

I gave the phone back to Mwangala who hung up.

Her: I will give you space to settle.

She said then walked away. I closed the door & started looking around. Just a few colour changes here & there then-...

I started having this feeling, a feeling like something was wrong. Sometimes it happens that I just feel happy for no reason & sometimes I feel just sad. I always try to ignore it most of the time but today it was much stronger that I even felt emotional.

### MIYOBA

Me: Betty make sure the meeting takes place on Monday first thing in the morning, if I have any appointments, cancel!

Her: Yes ma'am.

Me: Good.

I then hung up. I was sitting across my lawyer & Mr. Sikanyika's lawyer, together with him.

Me: How much are you going for?

Him: $550, 000

Me: 5-what?

His lawyer decided to jump in.

Lawyer: Actually they are going for $1, 000, 000 because these shares are worth a lot so $550, 000... See it as a discount.

Me: $550, 000? For 20%?

Lawyer: Yes.

Me: $450, 000!

I looked at Mr. Sikanyika as I ran my hand on my exposed cleavage.

Mr. Sikanyika: $500, 000.

Me: I think we are having misunderstandings here.

I stood up then handed Mr. Sikanyika an envelope that contained our pictures. Knowing him full well, he wouldn't want them to be exposed because of his wife, plus it would tarnish his reputation costing him a lot.

Me: $350k today, you will talk with my lawyer, have a good day Mr. Sikanyika

I said as I walked out with my lawyer behind me. As we walked downstairs to the garage my phone started ringing, it was mum.

Me: Mother.

Her: Miyoba! Do you know the shame you have put the family through?

Me: I don't think so.

Her: Your father is mad.

Me: Did the bride price negotiations take place?

Her: Yes, how could they not?

Me: Whatever! As far as I'm concerned I'm good as single, I will call you.

Her: Your father wants to see you.

Me: Why are you even marrying me off? All my life I had been obedient, did what made you happy but today suddenly you want to marry me off?

Her: It's... you don't understand.

Me: Make me understand then!

Her: You are destined for other things not the company Miyo.

Me: So who's destined for the company? Wait! It's Tits? She disrespected you. She doesn't deserve the company. I worked hard to be where I am, she's busy posing naked & getting married & today the company is destined for her?

Her: Miyoba calm down, that's not what is going on.

Me: Tits will never see the gates of Friendly Fashions!

Her: Miyoba! That's not what's going on!

Me: Then what is going on?

Her: Your father also inherited Friendly okay. It is his inheritance & from him it has to go to a son, your father's son. Unfortunately he doesn't have one so we consulted the ancestors. The rightful leader is there but it's not you or Tits or the man you are getting married to. The son in law is just there to buy us time with the ancestors just until we find the rightful owner because if you lead the company, the whole family will face the biggest storm ever, that company is the root of the family, you might think it's all about making money, you are wrong. That company is the pillar of the family & if it falls apart, then it is over for us.

Me: But I worked hard to be the leader of the company. I worked so hard for it, why couldn't you tell me this all along?

Her: We were hoping that the ancestors were wrong.

Me: So what will happen if the rightful owner, the rightful leader isn't found?

Her: Things will fall apart.

Me: I just can't leave what I worked hard for. I just can't, I'm sorry. I don't give a fuck about the ancestors.

Her: Yoyo!

Me: No! I'm not just going to let dad walk all over me! Not this time around, Friendly is mine.

I then hung up. The ancestors could go to hell for all I care.

# CHAPTER 3

## NEW JOB

### SCARLET

I Had my eyes closed, trying not to think of the worst, trying to keep the positive spirit alive but it was just too hard. It was just too hard, rushing Michelle to the hospital she wasn't breathing any more. It's like everything just crushed down. A soft tap on my shoulder brought me back to life. I looked up & it was Oliver. He had been the one to help us drive Michelle to the hospital.

Him: take... its coffee.

I took the cup he was handing me. Mum was sitting near me with her hands on her face while Twanda sat on the floor.

Me: Thank you.

He was holding two more cups. He looked at me then mum.

Me: Mummy!

I said as I softly rubbed her hand. She removed her hands from her face & her eyes were red. She was trying so hard to be strong. I had called her immediately after we arrived here.

Oliver: I bought you coffee ma'am.

She slightly moved her lips, trying to smile but it was nothing close to a smile.

Her: Thank you son.

She said taking the coffee, he gave the other cup to Twanda. We sat there waiting for the doctors to tell us what was going on. Finally when the doctor came, we all stood up, praying & hoping that she was still with us.

Dr: It's such a miracle that she's still with us.

That was a relief, I finally could breath.

Dr: We couldn't find anything wrong with her.

Oliver: How come?

Dr: We also are failing to understand but we are going to keep her in tonight, just for observation.

Mum: Is my baby going to be ok?

Dr: We believe so, you can go in to see her... have a good day.

He said then walked away.

Mum: Thank you Lord Jesus!

Twanda: Let's go

They walked away leaving me with Oliver.

Him: How are you feeling?

Me: Relieved obviously.

Him: Can we start afresh? On a clean plate?

Before I could respond, his phone started ringing. He took a few steps away from me as he answered but I could hear.

Him: Hello. I was busy... it doesn't matter because I don't care... she doesn't want & neither do I.... She's your wife not mine.... You can't be serious, you marry someone on my behalf then you want me to play happy family with that person..... I'm not going to & that's that!

He then hung up then turned to me. He looked rather surprised to find me still standing where he left me. Probably he expected me to go.

Him: About that-...

Me: I don't like you! I'm just tolerating you right now because you helped me & my family. If it wasn't for that I would have long insulted you & your whole family. Leave me alone, you're not my type either way so please!

Him: Carl-...

Me: Carl? You stalking me?

Him: I had to know.

Me: Whatever. Please stay away from me, you are irritating me, go try your wife.

I said walking away, I didn't like him & that was a fact. I walked to the ward Michelle was. Mum was holding her hand while Twanda brushed her hair. She was sleeping & she looked peaceful. I still couldn't understand what happened, something like that has never happened to Michelle. After a while we left & went home. I didn't see Oliver anywhere & I was rather happy I didn't see him.

### MIYOBA

I sat by the balcony drinking my wine & smoking my cigarette. I looked at the view as I sipped on my wine. Sometimes I wonder how I turned into the person I have become. I wasn't born like this. I was never like this. I also had a dream, like any other person & my dream was to be the best Author out there.

As always that was too dull, it was way too common for my father, it wasn't a career. He burnt all the short story books I wrote in high school, brainwashed me, and made me have the mindset I have today. From when I was 4years old to when I was 10 Years old, dad made me stay with his sister, Claudia.

Aunt Claudia was the devils daughter in flesh, no day passed without her telling me how much of a failure I was, how I will never make it out there because I'm a lost sheep. She kept telling on & on how I don't belong with them, how much of a curse I am. It got to a point where I became immune to the insults, where I just took them & buried them deep where nobody would ever find them. When I was 10 that's when mum came to take me. All along they were staying with Tits, I used to hate her. I still do, because no matter how much she messed up she never got punished like how I would get punished. I blinked away my tears, being me, being the Miyo I am today is what kept me going, it's what kept me alive. I quickly wiped the tear that had dropped as I heard the intercom. I walked back inside the house holding my glass, at such moments, Jeff would be great company, and I threw the remaining cigarette in the ash tray. I opened the door & some dude was standing by my door step. He was some fine nigga no lie.

Me: Evening.

Him: Hey.

Me: How can I help you?

Him: I'm looking for Miyoba.

Me: You are looking at her.

He looked at me, more carefully this time around.

Him: Gracious God!

He mumbled.

Me: How can I help you?

Him: Apparently you are my wife.

I laughed.

Me: Oh shit!

Him: Yeah. You smoke?

Me: Yes.

Him: You drink.

Me: Pretty much.

Him: Girls like you are never the marriage type. No offense.

Me: None taken. I know I'm not marriage type.

He looked at me again.

Him: I'm Oliver.

Me: Miyoba.

Him: I just wanted to see the person I'm engaged to.

Me: Married is a big word.

Him: Tell me about it. It was nice meeting you.

Me: Yeah.

I said closing the door. I was sure by now Mr. Sikanyika had looked at the pictures. I was sure about the shares & now there was nothing stopping me from leading Friendly Fashions.

### TITANIA

It was a struggle falling asleep that night, opening my eyes it felt like I had only slept for a few minutes. I took a deep breath as I sat up straight on the bed. The moon was reflecting light. I got off the bed & walked to the dressing table. My reflection wasn't something pleasing, I had bruises all over. I took off the wig. Duncan had really done a number on me.

Finally I retreated from the mirror. I walked out of the room. I could hear a voice talking, a male voice. I followed the voice & it led me to the kitchen. My mouth dropped open when I realized who it was. He was on a phone call so immediately he hung up.

Me: Jeff!

Him: Titania! What am I seeing? Is that you?

Me: Long time.

Him: Yeah, long time really.

He said walking towards me & giving me a brief hug. Jeff was or still is my sister's best friend.

Him: What happened to your face?

Me: Story for another day, how's Miyo?

Him: She's perfect.

Me: That's great!

Him: Yes, what are you doing here?

Me: I'm your sister's friend.

Him: I never knew, what a small world it is.

Me: Yeah. Please don't tell Miyo that you saw me.

Him: How can I not? I just saw her sister.

Me: You know how it is with her.

Him: Ok, for now I will keep quite. Your face girl! You look like a truck just hit you.

I smiled.

Me: I will be fine.

Him: Let me help you.

After a while we were sitting in the living room with him applying some lotion that was going to make the bruises vanish. Jeff hadn't really changed that much, he was still the bubbly Jeff I knew, though he couldn't stop telling about how Miyo was a success. Miyo & I have always been different, & we never get along.

Him: Apply this for a week & trust me those bruises will be good as gone.

I smiled.

Me: Thank you.

Him: Your husband was beating you blue black?

Me: I don't want to talk about it.

Him: It's ok.

Just then Mwangala walked in, I never really got the chance to look at her carefully yesterday. She is a bit shorter than I am, has curves that could last me a life time! Her round face just completes her beauty.

Her: I see y'all have made friends.

Jeff: Oh no, Tits & I know each other from way back, you see Miyo-...

Her: That spoilt brat you call best friend?

Jeff: I will pretend I didn't hear that, Miyo is Tits's sister.

Mwangala looked at me.

Me: Yeah, but we are not close.

Her: I can see, so I have found you a good lawyer, your divorce will go smoothly trust me.

Me: Thank God.

Her: Yeah, you will have to go see her tomorrow at her work place so I will drop you there.

Jeff: You are getting a divorce?

Me: Yeah.

Mwangala: Don't worry, everything is going to be fine.

Me: I hope so.

Mwangala: I'm going to church now. You want to come with?

Me: Nope, next time.

Mwangala: Ok.

She then walked out, God & I long parted ways.

Jeff: Divorce at 23?

Me: Story of my life!

Jeff: If you wanna talk... I'm here.

Me: I will keep that in mind, thank you.

Jeff: Want to go out for a drive?

Me: Yeah sure, why not?

### SCARLET

In the morning we drove to Bethany's house, it was her burial today. We were going to attend her burial in the morning then later go pick up Michelle because the doctors found no reason to keep her. Katongo was with his uncles so I couldn't go up to him though our eyes met. He gave me a smile, a smile of appreciation. Bethany's funeral was really heartbreaking, she was the quietest person I ever met. Never once in my life did I catch her screaming on top of her lungs, she was a beautiful soul.

Around lunch I was standing by my mother's car with Katongo, I was going to pick Michelle at the hospital alone because mum had to help around. Twanda also had to help around clearing up. I, on the other hand had to buy a few groceries because due to what had been happening, mum didn't find time to go to the store, so from the hospital I was going to go shopping.

Me: I'm really sorry about your mum.

Him: It's ok. I heard about Michelle.

Me: I'm going to pick her up from the hospital.

Him: Is she going to be ok?

Me: I believe so.

Him: Carl, about what happened, I'm sorry.

Me: It's ok.

Him: I shouldn't have done that.

Me: No, you shouldn't have.

Him: Can we please still be friends?

Me: Yes, keep Strong.

Him: Yeah.

Me: Let me get going.

Him: Adios.

I got inside the car then drove to the hospital. Getting to her ward she was awake.

Her: Carl!

Me: Hey sweetheart.

I gave her a hug, my siblings are my life.

Me: How are you feeling?

Her: I'm ok.

Me: You wanna go to the store?

Her: Yes!

Me: Ok, wait.

After she got discharged I drove to the mall. She was quite & that wasn't the usual Michelle, usually, she's the person who makes a lot of noise. Getting at the mall I took her with me inside the shops. I was only shopping for the basics because Michelle didn't look too well.

As we walked around I accidentally bumped into someone.

Me: Sorry.

I said taking a step back & looking at the person I had bumped into. His face was familiar but I couldn't really place where I met him but it's probably at the bar.

Him: It is ok, but you can help me with something as an apology.

Me: Ok.

Him: I'm trying to find the best soup for beef stew.

I looked around then pointed at the one we usually use at home.

Me: I usually use that one.

He smiled taking it & throwing it in his basket.

Him: Thank you so much.

Me: No sweat. Michelle let's go.

Him: Is that your sister?

Me: Yeah.

Him: She's cute. Hi.

He said waving at her.

Michelle waved back with a slight smile.

Him: Thank you again.

Me: Cool.

As I walked away, I finally remembered where I saw him, it was at the bar on Friday just before Nate told me we were closing.

I paid up then drove home. Getting home, I started with dinner, Twanda & mum weren't home yet. They arrived shortly after I was done cooking.

Mum: Where's she?

Me: Watching TV.

She walked to the sitting room, followed by Twanda. That evening went well, at least things were not as tense as they were the previous night. Trouble only started at night. Michelle was finding it hard to breath, she was breathing heavily. Her temperature was at its peak that we stayed up the whole night. Early in the morning mum prepared to go to the hospital with her.

Mum: Carl you need to go to the job interview I told you about, it pays well.

Me: Mu-...

Mum: Please. Take.

She handed me a small business card.

Mum: Please. I hate it when you work at that bar, bad things are likely to happen to you at the night shifts you take.

Me: Nothing has ever happened to me.

Mum: Not yet that is. Just go.

Me: Whatever!

After a while she was gone with Michelle. Twanda couldn't go with them considering his exams were nearing. I prepared later that morning that around 7AM I was done. Arriving at the jewelry shop, I was actually surprised, what I saw wasn't what I had in my mind. It was a big store rather & it was only full of jewelry & ornaments, only expensive for that matter. I looked around until my eyes came across this lady, pretty lady. She was busy with a customer. I walked up to her.

Me: Morning.

Her: Hi, please give me a second.

After the customer she was with paid, she turned & looked at me with a very beautiful smile.

Me: I'm here for an interview.

Her: Well you are-...

She got interrupted by another customer, it rather looked a bit busy.

Her: What's your name?

Me: Carl.

Her: Right! Carl please go to the other counter & help the other customer.

I walked to the other counter. She seemed like she couldn't handle all the customers at once.

Me: Morning Ma'am, how can I help you?

The white lady looked at the diamond necklaces under the counter.

Her: I'm looking for something for my daughter... how about that one?

She said pointing at some piece, it was a pretty piece but very expensive.

I took it out so she sees it properly.

Her: Yes, I want this one.

Me: Ok.

After she paid for it she left. I looked around again & we were now alone.

Her: God! Hi.

Me: Hey.

Her: I'm Kris you are Carl right?

Me: Yeah.

Her: Okay, so Carl, this shop opened on Friday. I have workers but they haven't showed up till now. I only needed two extra workers & after I have seen you, you are hired. I don't have time for a formal interview.

She walked to the door & closed it.

Her: Come!

I followed her to some office.

Her: Seat!

I sat down as she sat opposite me.

Her: Take! It's the contract.

I took the contract & read through it while she was looking at me. The pay is the one which got my tongue tied.

It was K12, 000 ($1200) it was four times my pay at the bar.

Me: 12K?

Her: Yeah. You will get bonus probably after showing great work.

Me: Wow!

Her: When do you think you can start?

Me: Anytime.

Her: Thank God! How about now?

### MIYOBA

I sat on my chair looking at Mr. Sikanyika as he signed his shares over to me. As he signed my mind darted back to what happened with the Oliver guy. Just the way he was looking at me, like I'm something he wouldn't even touch, something disgusting. Mr. Sikanyika then stood up, I looked at my lawyer who took the document.

Me: And?

Him: It's done!

I looked back at Mr. Sikanyika.

Me: It was great doing business with you.

Him: I wouldn't say the same. You are nothing like your father.

Me: Obviously. And oh in that meeting make sure you know which side of your bread has cheese.

He walked out leaving me with Hidan, my lawyer.

Me: Do you think I will win this?

Him: Yes, the sales will make you win.

Me: I hope so.

I stood up.

Him: I will give you space.

Me: Ok.

He then walked out. I fixed my skirt, taking my tablet then walked out to the boardroom. Getting inside my eyes met my fathers. I occupied my seat as everyone looked at me.

Me: Good morning, I really apologize for the short notice meeting.

They all nodded. I looked at Dorothy, our sales manager.

Me: You may take over.

She stood up & started presenting on how the sales have drastically changed from when I started leading the company.

Dorothy: Friendly Fashions is on most billboards because of the great work we are posing.

She continued as I looked at every shareholder, they were listening attentively. When my eyes met my father's, surprisingly he was looking at me. He had the disapproving look but I couldn't care less. After she was done, they applauded her as she sat down.

Me: It's no lie that ever since I came in this company the sales have been increasing each day.

Dad: Let's cut to the chase Miyoba, you want to be elected as the official CEO?

Me: Yes & I also need your support to take this company higher places.

Dad: Those in vote to make Miyoba the CEO may you please show by raising your hand.

Most of the people raised their hands. I sighed in relief.

Dad: There, we have it, you are the official CEO of Friendly Fashions.

After a while my father & I were walking in my office.

Dad: Do you realize what's at stake here?

Me: What's at stake Father?

Dad: Our lives are at stake!

Me: Because I'm running the company supposedly?

Dad: No! Because you are the wrong blood!

Me: Wrong blood?

Dad: There is a specific person for this! This isn't just a company. It's the root of the family & it should be led by the rightful person & it's not you.

Me: Says who?

Dad: The ancestors.

Me: The dead people?

He sighed then walked out. I sat on my chair with a smile. Finally, I was where I've always wanted to be.

Dad came back after a while but he wasn't alone. He was with this other man, a very old man for that matter.

Dad: This is the Seer.

Me: Ok.

Dad: He's the shaman for the family.

Me: You are not about to do the Mumbo-Jumbo thingy in my office father.

Dad: Miyoba!

I kept quite & the Seer sat down on the carpet. He took out some things, weird things for that matter. After a while he was burning some shit creating smoke in the office.

Me: Father-...

The Seer: She's close yet so far.

I looked at Dad who was focused on the Seer.

Me: So it's a she?

The Seer: Yes, it's a female... She carries the voice of a leader, the ancestors are trying to locate her.

I laughed that Dad looked at me.

Me: The ancestors don't even know where she is! Great!

The Seer: They won't stop until she's found.

I started rocking my chair.

Dad: So what's going to happen in the mean time?

The Seer: She's a replica to one of the daughters.

Me: I have a replica?

The Seer: I don't know but there's a replica, the son in law has to lead till she's found.

Me: Father I have a meeting to attend, we are hosting a fashion show, what you are saying is not making sense.

The Seer packed his staff as I opened the windows & sprayed my perfume around to get rid of the smoke.

Dad: You need to be at your in-laws house.

Me: I met my husband.

Dad: You did?

Me: Yes. I'm not wife material according to him.

Dad: You are perfect.

Me: Why should I be the one to get married?

Dad: Because your sister is already married.

I stood up & took my handbag.

Me: I don't like him.

Dad: You will learn to, we need him!

I walked out.

Me: Close the door on your way out.

I didn't care about what dad & his shaman were saying but what hit me was the replica talk. I kept wondering if I have a twin or was it Tits? I don't exactly remember Titania's birth. If the replica has to be the one to run the company then why not find the replica first? I took out my phone & called Josh, my Private Investigator.

Me: Hey.

Him: Hi.

Me: Can you look for someone for me?

### TITANIA

I sat down in the office all alone. Mwangala had dropped me at the lawyer I'm supposed to see. I was waiting for her. I was really nervous, my hands were even shaking. Obviously Duncan was going to contest the divorce. If he ever finds me then that's the end of me. After a while the lady walked in. I stood up as she gave me a handshake.

Her: I'm Mrs. Lubasi

Me: Mrs. Roads

Her: Please sit.

I sat down as she sat opposite me.

Her: You want a divorce, am I right?

Me: Yes.

Her: Okay. Why if I may ask?

Me: Due to... he is abusive.

Her: Ok, you are married in community or property or.

Me: Yes but I don't want anything

Her: Who are you married to?

Me: Duncan Roads.

Her: So you want nothing from the marriage?

Me: NO, I just want to be free, that's all.

Her: How did the abuse start? I need to know everything because every detail is very essential.

I nodded as I took a deep breath. I have never told anyone about what I go through with Duncan. I don't have friends, he got rid of them.

Her: Take your time.

I didn't even know where to start.

# CHAPTER 4

## MEETING OF THE TWO SISTERS

### MIYOBA

I Kept my head down, trying to focus on the file that was before me but his stare still tortured me.

Him: So you are going to do that till when?

Me: Until I'm done.

Him: Its 8 AM, I have been here since I don't know.

Me: You have been here for 20 minutes.

Him: Still!

Me: I'm... Just trying to..

Him: Trying to what Miyo?

Me: Jeff please!

Him: What's going on with you?

Me: What do you mean what's going on with me?

Him: You ar... you are changing... All for Friendly?

Me: Changing? I'm not changing... I'm still me but I'm just standing my ground & suddenly I'm changing?

Him: The depths you are willing to go are beginning to scare me Miyo.

Me: I'm not going to hurt her! How many times must I say that?

Him: Oh! So what are you going to do with her? That person is supposed to take over, so what? You're just going to say hi & leave?

Me: Of cause not... I'm going to offer her a deal she can't refuse.

Him: Wow!

Me: What do you suggest I do?

Him: I don't know! But definitely not what you are doing

Me: I will let it go.

Him: When? Its two days already & your Josh can't find her.

Me: I will let it go today.

Him: Good, when am I meeting your husband?

Me: There's no husband. I don't like him.

Him: Why? Because he said you aren't wife material?

Me: No. Just because... I don't have a reason.

He started laughing.

Him: I give up on you.

Me: The vacation you suggested that time?

Him: What about it?

Me: How about this weekend together with the rest of the coming week?

Him: Oh great. Finally Hawaii here we come!

Me: I just need a break from everything that has been happening lately. The whole I'm the wrong blood shit is just getting to me.

Him: Wrong blood?

Me: Dad said I'm the wrong blood to lead the company. I just want to clear my mind.

Him: Yeah.

I leaned back & looked at Jeff.

Me: Can I come to your place tonight? I'm bored at home.

Him: What about Mwang-...?

Me: I can handle Mwangala, I got bigger shit to deal with than her.

Him: Or I can always come to your place.

Me: My place doesn't feel like home. I'm coming to your place then we can watch anime the whole night!

Him: Miyo-...

Me: Or we can rent a movie? I'm sleeping over!

### SCARLET

We had just opened at the jewelry store. I took the job because it pays well but I'm also keeping the job at the bar. At the end of the month I will be making a lot of money that will help my family in many ways. Mum was pleased when I told her I had gotten the job but wasn't so happy when I told her I was keeping my old job. Michelle has been sick lately, the doctors can't find anything & its really stressing. Jezabella had even suggested we see a shaman but mum is a full believer, she's a Christian who never miss church & she's totally against the traditional ways. In the morning when I left she was still sleeping, mum had taken some days off from work to take care of Michelle. As I wiped the counters Antoinette got in, my work mate.

Her: Carl!

Me: Nette.

Her name is pretty long so cutting it short is much better. She was a bit wet. That made me look outside, it was drizzling.

Her: Oh God, I'm going to catch a cold.

Me: Pretty much.

She got to her counter.

Her: Wow! Your hair is really long.

Me: Thank you.

I had unplaited & just held a bun. I hate my hair when it's unplaited because it puts me through a lot combing it. Its natural hair. Antoinette is a South African Afrikaans girl; so basically she's white. Just then, the first customer got in. I didn't see the person until they were standing on my counter. He was holding a kid in his hands.

Him: I'm seeing you again?

Me: I believe so.

It was the guy I had accidentally bumped into at the shop.

Him: I'm looking for something for her.

He said looking at the kid he was holding, she looked like she was five or so.

Me: Ok.

I looked around for a necklace. I finally took out the one with blue fine points.

Me: How about this one?

She clapped her hands.

Her: It's pretty, I love it.

I looked at him.

Him: Ok, I'm taking it.

After paying for it he made her wear it.

Him: Perfect.

Her: I'm looking pretty.

Him: You look beautiful sweetheart.

He looked at me.

Him: Thank you.

Me: Just doing my job.

Him: I thought you worked at the bar.

Me: I don't know how that is any of your business.

He chuckled.

Him: It's not, it's just a conclusion I had made naturally.

Me: Next time don't make conclusions about things you don't know.

Him: Whoa!

Me: Anything else?

Him: No... no... Makeila, let's go sweetie.

He picked her up & walked out.

Antoinette was just looking at me.

Me: What?

Her: I can't believe you just spoke to... oh my!

Me: I just told him to mind his own business

Her: Do you know who he is?

Me: No & I don't care!

Her: Either way, you can't talk to customers like that... it's rude.

Me: He was busy putting his head in my business & I just simply told him to fuck off, how's that being rude!

Her: Carl! You are something else.

Me: So I have been told.

The rain got worse that not even one customer got in.

Just then my phone started ringing, it was Uncle Dee, my father's elder brother.

Me: Uncle!

Him: Oh Scarlet! How do you do?

Me: How do you do?

Him: I'm afraid we have trouble, I'm coming to your house today.

My Uncle stays in Botswana, Jwaneng.

It must have been very important for him to travel such a distance.

Me: Ok, I will alert mum.

Him: No, I have called her but I want you there. I want to have a word with both of you.

Me: Oh, ok. I will be there.

Him: Thank you, we will talk.

Me: Yes.

He then hung up, I couldn't help but get worried. I kept wondering what the problem could be. I took my earphones then plugged them in, due to the rain, it was going to be a slow day.

### TITANIA

I was with my lawyer, Cristobel Lubasi, she was now basically my lawyer. What I love about Cristobel is that she's a good listener, or maybe that's what she's trained to be. She was making the whole divorce process seem easy.

Her: The Judge will rule in your favor.

Me: That's great.

Her: Yes, about the assets.

Me: I really don't want anything.

Her: I know but look, this man basically ruined your life, you don't have a job, and you don't have money. You don't have anything, so after all the years of suffering you want to walk out with nothing?

I looked at her.

Her: Unlike you, he has everything, but he managed to isolate you from everyone that you were left with no one & you just want to walk away?

Me: I don't want Duncan's Money.

Her: It's not about wanting Duncan's money, it's about him paying for the torture he put you through.

Me: How much can I get?

Her: I have looked into Duncan Roads, he's loaded. You can walk out with a least an amount of 5 million Dollars if you don't want his money but if you really want to make him pay you can get more.

Me: 5 million?

Her: Yep! So what is it going to be?

Me: God! That's a lot of money.

Her: It is, you can have your new start with that money.

Me: It's more than a lot!

Her: He's loaded, when he's grandfather passed on, since he was the only grandchild he had, Duncan was the only one in the will surprisingly, so he inherited almost everything he had.

Me: I don't want to dig in his inheritance.

Her: The 5million won't be part of the inheritance. Trust me, that asshole is rich.

Me: If he finds me, he's going to kill me... the 5million won't mean anything.

Her: That's if... a given if, go think about it Tits, you can be anything you want or you can be absolutely nothing. Think about it.

She stood up.

Her: I have to be in a meeting in 10 minutes. We can meet up on Friday. How's that?

Me: It's ok.

Her: Good, think about it.

She walked out. I also stood up & walked out of her office. I walked out of the building, it was raining real hard & I didn't even have an umbrella to make matters worse. Not even a car. Maybe if I take the 5 million... I shook my head.

Me: Stop it Titania! Stop it!

I got out from the building because all along I had been standing by the door. I saw a taxi parked at the other side of the road. I took a deep breath before rushing towards it. Trying to get the door, someone also put their hands on it. We looked at each other for a while there before he decided to let go. I smiled then got in & he also did, & sat beside me.

Him: Hi!

Me: Hello.

He took off his raincoat.

Him: How are you?

Me: I'm good.

The way he was talking, it was like he knew me from somewhere but I didn't know him from anywhere.

Him: How's your sister?

I looked at him.

Me: She's ok.

Him: That's great. I know you must think I'm a weirdo right?

Me: Kind of.

He chuckled.

Him: I'm sorry.

Me: It's ok

Him: So Carl... I'm not really sure if that's your name.

Me: Carl?

Him: Yeah..no..ummh what's your name, I'm Oliver... please don't be rude or pissed this time, I'm just trying to make a conversation.

I looked at him again, he looked really nervous making him look cute. He was even rubbing his hands together.

Me: I think you are mistaking me for someone but my name is Titania or you can just call me Tits for short.

He laughed.

Him: Tits? Are you serious? Anyway, I'm not mistaking you for someone just that you look a bit different today... you... wanna go out for coffee.

Me: What's your name again?

Him: Oliver... or Oli.

Me: You are mistaking me for someone really.

Him: Do you have a twin out there?

Me: No.

Him: All I'm asking is to be friends. That's all, please.

I took a deep breath, I don't know what was going on, the way he was talking to me was like he knew me, even the way he kept on looking at me. The only thing I could think of is Jeff, because yesterday he kept telling me that he's going to hook me up, with a knight in shining armor who will sweep my feet away. I'm sure he had filled him in every detail, sometimes Jeff is just Jeff. I smiled.

Me: Ok. I don't know what you have been told about me but I-...

Him: Don't worry about that, so will you be my friend?

Me: Yeah why not?

Him: Whatever that is happening to you Carl-...

Me: Titania... its Tits

Him: Sorry... Tits

I nodded

Him: Wanna catch coffee?

Me: It's still raining.

Him: Yeah... I know.

Me: Ok.

I don't know what was happening to me but somehow I just, felt safe with him. I didn't even know how I trusted him. My mind that moment was just free.

He stopped the taxi at some spot then paid for the fare. He made me wear the raincoat then we rushed into some restaurant, I realized it was mug & bean when we finally settled down.

Him: So what do you do for a living apart from you know?

Me: Well I... I'm model.

He looked at me surprised.

Him: A what? I never could guess.

I laughed.

Me: Yeah.

Him: Dresses look good on you.

Me: Thank you but I'm going to look for a job, a real one that pay bills.

Him: And one that doesn't expose you to danger, I can fix you something.

Me: Where?

Him: Where I work.

Me: Ok.

Him: I thought you were going to protest.

Me: No. Beggars can't be choosers.

Him: You are really different today or-...

The waiter then came to our table. He ordered for both of us.

Him: Can we just start on a new plate... like get to know each other better because all along I was thinking I know you but surprisingly I don't know shit about you..

Me: well I'm Tits, I'm 23, I'm a model, have one sister & my parents disowned me.

Him: That's a lot.

Me: It's only half of it.

Him: Well I'm Oliver, 28, I'm a marketing manager at an advertising Agency, I'm not disowned & I have a brother & a sister, they are fraternal twins actually.

Me: Ok.

Him: Yeah.

Our order came.

Him: I thought you were very rude & mean... but you're actually the opposite of that.

I just laughed.

Me: Shouldn't you be at work right now?

Him: It's my day off today.

Me: Ok.

Him: Your voice sounds a bit-...

Me: A bit what?

Him: Nothing. You are really pretty.

I just smiled.

### MIYOBA

The rest of the day I spent it planning the fashion show that was supposed to take place on Friday. I was looking at the designs we had. They were just perfect. Betty came towards me as I was looking at the models wearing the new designs.

Betty: Ma'am, there's a phone call.

Me: I told you I don't want to be disturbed Betty!

Betty: yes Ma'am but it's from Josh.

I took the phone from her.

Me: Josh!

Him: Miyo.

Me: Found her?

Him: No, it's kind of hard to look for your twin.

Me: Look harder, if I have a twin then I should know about it.

Him: I will... but I happen to have seen your sister today.

Me: What?

Him: Your sister is back.

Me: Where is she?

Him: I saw her at mug & bean.

Me: Where is she staying?

Him: I don't know.

Me: Find out where she stays & what she's doing here.

Him: On it.

Me: Good.

I hung up then gave Betty back the phone. I was actually surprised that Titania was here. What was she doing here? I looked back at the models.

My mind wasn't in place anymore. I wanted to know what Titania was doing here.

Me: Ok it's a wrap!

I said walking out. I walked to my office, getting there I dialed Jeff's number but it led me straight to voicemail.

I exhaled. Quinton Lance's number caught my eye. It were on my desk. I had asked Josh to get it for me. At first it was funny that he thought I was a hooker but now it wasn't so funny.

"You are nothing but a lost soul! You are useless Miyoba! If you are not a prostitute in the future, I'm sure snakes would have grown legs!"

Aunt Claudia's words came back, they kept stabbing me continuously.

I was starting to find it hard to breathe. I was gasping for air. Tears were already cascading. After a while, Betty got in my office. I felt like I was dying.

She came back with some guy.

Betty: I'm calling the ambulance.

The guy came & made me lie down.

Him: Hey... hey... look at me, its ok.

It took him a while to get me to calm down.

Me: Oh God!

Him: You are ok now.

He helped me stand up.

Him: Was this your first time?

I nodded.

Him: You will be fine.

Me: Thank you.

Him: No sweat.

Betty was still shaking.

Her: The... the-the ambulance is on its way Ma'am.

Me: I'm fine now.

Her: I thought you were... that you were.

Me: Dying? I thought so too... I'm fine now.

I wiped away my tears then took a deep breath.

Me: Thank you again, so much.

Him: Its ok... panic attacks don't kill.

Me: It didn't feel like it.

Him: Yeah.

Me: What's your name? I really want to thank you.

Him: Cecil... & no, it's ok, I did what anyone could have done. Have a good day.

He then walked out.

Me: Who is he?

I asked Betty who was now sitting opposite me.

Her: My brother.

Me: Oh.

Her: Yeah... I'm glad you are ok.

Me: Me too.

Just then my phone started ringing... It was Jeff, Betty excused herself.

Me: Friend!

Him: I'm sorry i-

Me: I almost died!

Him: What?

Me: I couldn't breathe.

Him: What? What happened?

Me: Aunt Claudia just-...

Him: You shouldn't think about her.

Me: It's hard.

Him: I'm coming after work.

Me: No... don't, I'm picking you up since I'm sleeping over, guess what?

Him: What? Found a new dick?

I laughed.

Me: No... Tits is back.

Him: What?

Me: Apparently.

Him: Who told you?

Me: Josh.

Him: Oh.

Me: Yeah... I wonder what she's doing here.

Him: Yeah.

Me: Ok bye. I will see you later.

Him: Yeah... later.

I then hung up, I was still shaking with what happened. My office phone then started ringing. It was a call from the reception.

Me: Hello.

Good morning Ma'am, Mr. Sikanyika would like to talk to you

Me: Let him through.

I held the phone for a while until I heard his voice at the end of the line.

Him: Little girl!

Me: Mr. Sikanyika. How can I help you?

Him: You skanky dirty girl! You are going to pay for ever blackmailing me.

Me: I would mind my words if I were you Mr. Sikanyika.

Him: You are going to pay. I promise you.

Me: As I pay I'm sure the media would be having a great time with our little movie, I don't have much to lose, unlike you.

Him: You are good as dead little girl... I promise you, be careful because you might never know where the ghost is! Keep those pictures & see what will happen to you.

He then hung up, I stood up. Fear is weakness. I kept telling myself that, he was just trying to scare me probably. I wasn't going to show him that I'm weak. I'm Miyoba & I'm anything but weak.

Betty got in my office startling me a bit.

Her: I'm sorry but the magazine people are here. For the interview.

Me: The interview is now?

Her: Yes.

Me: Ok... let them in.

Her: Right away.

She walked out, I hate the magazine, and they are always trying to dig in your life. Quickly I fixed my make-up.

Betty came back with some lady.

Betty: This is Hinata Senju from Crimson Magazine.

Me: Well, Hinata please sit.

She got in as Betty left.

Her: Good morning Ms. Hichilema.

She said setting her recorder.

Me: Morning Hinata.

Her: How does it feel to be a remarkable woman that is envied by most women out there?

Me: It's overwhelming really, knowing a lot of people look up to me... its irresistible.

Her: What is your motivation? What motivates you to keep on pushing?

Me: My motivation is success, every day when I wake up I tell myself that I want to be more than what I am today, that I want to make myself proud... not anyone else, but me.

Her: What about the fact that you just took over your father's company, you didn't have to go through the struggle that other people go through, your future was given to you on a silver platter.

Me: People are different, I didn't chose to be born in my family, it just happened. Yes I did take over my father's company but I'm making my own name, I'm making this company a success.

Her: Ms. Hichilema do you perhaps think that your family somehow has something to do with where you are today?

Me: Family is important, their love & support inspired me to be here today, their believing in me.

Her: Ms. Hichilema, why is it that instead of your sister, Titania you got the company?

Me: My sister has her own career path & that is to be a model, we are different. She's not into business. If you don't have more concrete questions to ask I believe this interview is over Ms. Senju.

### SCARLET

The rain didn't stop at any moment. The day wasn't even that busy due to the rain. Immediately after work I packed my things & left. Antoinette was the one to take the keys today. I left them still inside the shop, her, together with other workers. I didn't mind the drizzles, all I wanted was to get home. I went to the bus stop waiting for a taxi. I had even started to shiver. Just then a silver BMW parked at the stop. I kept looking at the time. After a while the person got out. I don't know why but I was really starting to get annoyed by continuously seeing this guy's face. I was even regretting ever meeting him at the bar or at the shops.

He was holding an umbrella.

Him: Hey, want a lift?

Me: No, I'm fine.

Him: I'm no serial killer.

Me: I never said you are.

Him: I'm with Makeila, I won't hurt you... I'm just helping out, since it's raining you might maybe want a lift home.

Me: Thank you for the offer but I'm fine.

My phone then started ringing, it was mum.

Me: Mummy.

Her: Are you coming now?

Me: Yes.

Her: Ok, hurry, your uncle has arrived.

Me: I'm coming.

Her: Ok bye.

Me: How's Michelle?

Her: Much better.

Me: Ok.

She then hung up.

He was still looking at me holding the umbrella over us.

Me: I think you should go.

Him: Mn, ok, at least keep the umbrella because the rain is getting worse.

It was really getting worse & there was no taxi coming.

Him: Please let me drop you... or you will just sit in the car till a taxi comes.

Me: Why are you doing this? Go home!

Him: I just happen to... I... you know what, forget it but you can keep the umbrella.

He gave me the umbrella then walked to his car. I looked at the time again, it was getting late & dark, & it was raining. I closed my eyes contemplating on what to do. I had no choice. I rushed to his car. He smiled as I stood by his window then he gestured that I get in. I took a deep breath then got inside his car. I closed the umbrella & closed the door. It was warm in his car. The little girl was at the backseat.

Him: Should I drop you?

Me: Yes please.

Him: Ok, by the way I'm Quinton & that's my niece Makeila.

I nodded shivering.

Him: Keila, give... ummh-...

Me: Carl.

Him: Give Aunt Carl that fleece blanket.

She smiled giving it to me, I smiled back.

Me: Thank you Makeila.

Her: You are welcome.

I put it around my shoulders.

Him: Can you direct me.

After about 30 minutes, his car was at my gate. We were much faster. I could see Uncle Dee's old Isuzu inside the yard.

Me: Thank you very much

Him: It's ok.

Makeila: Your hair is wet.

Me: Yes... I will have to dry it.

Her: Just like mummy does.

Me: Yes... thank you again.

Him: Don't sweat it.

I gave the small blanket to Makeila then got off the car & rushed inside. He drove away as I got inside the house. Getting inside the house my eyes were met by mum's, she was in the kitchen.

Her: That was fast.

Me: Yes.

Her: Who was that?

Me: Who was who?

Her: The man with the car?

Me: It's nobody.

I said walking out of the kitchen. Getting inside the sitting room, Michelle was actually laughing. She hadn't been going to school this week because she was very sick & seeing her laughing like that made me feel like a heavy load had been removed from my heart. They were laughing with Uncle Dee together with Twanda.

Uncle Dee then turned & looked at my direction.

Him: Scarlet!

Me: Uncle.

Him: Wow! You are so big!

I smiled.

Me: Let me go wear warm clothes.

I said walking to my room.

Getting there I changed into my tracksuit, my hair was really wet. It took me about 20 minutes to dry it. After I was done I went back to the sitting room. Mum served the food. It was fun as Uncle told his tales. He only could keep everyone laughing in the family. After we were done eating Michelle went to bed.

Him: I have a reason to be here. After you called me Gloria, I called the elders back home in Uganda to tell them about Michelle's sickness. Their response wasn't something I expected. This is all happening because our ancestors are being provoked. There is someone in our family who does not carry our blood.

Mum: Someone where?

Him: Someone among your children.

Mum started laughing.

Mum: My kids! All these children are my husbands' children! I have never committed adultery. Never! This is an insult.

Him: I know that Gloria, that's what I told the elders but they kept telling me that there's someone who's not our own.

Mum: Dee please leave my house!

Him: Gloria you don't understand.

Mum: I don't have to understand anything, leave my house I will take Michelle to church!

Him: Gloria-...

Mum: Leave!

She stood then went to open the door. Uncle Dee just stood up & walked out with mum banging the door behind him. I had just froze.

### TITANIA

Him: That was fun.

Me: Yeah.

He said as he parked in front of Mwangala's house. He had finally gotten his car. We spent the whole time together trying to get to know each other better, of cause I kept out Duncan, it was just too soon for me to be telling him those things. Oliver seemed like a nice guy.

Him: We should do this more often.

Me: Definitely, it was awesome.

He looked at me.

Him: When did you start staying here?

Me: A few days ago.

He nodded.

Him: At least this place guarantees safety, staying in Ghetto isn't safe.

Me: Yeah.

Him: I'm glad you are looking for another job, can I have your number so I call you tomorrow?

Me: Ok.

I gave him my line.

Him: Ok... I will call you tomorrow.

Me: Alright.

He leaned over slowly closing the gap between us, my eyes shut involuntary as I felt his warm breath against my lips. His lips brushed over mine softly before he eloped me in a slow tender kiss making me feel things in my tummy. My whole body fell on his spell. As I was still caught up in the kiss Duncan came back in mind. Quickly I pulled away opening the door already.

Me: I have to go.

I said then got off his car. Getting inside the house I shut the door behind me & closed my eyes as I leaned against the door. What just happened? I touched my swollen lips. Duncan would kill me if he ever found out. I took a deep breath then walked to the sitting room where I could hear voices. Getting there my whole body got frozen as I saw Miyoba. She was busy arguing with Jeff about something while they sat on the couch. Jeff went silent when he saw me. It didn't take much time for her to notice me.

Miyo: What on earth!?

I took a deep breath.

Me: Miyoba.

Miyo: What on earth are you doing here? What is she doing here Jeff?

Jeff just looked away.

She stood up & walked towards me.

# CHAPTER 5

## VLAD ATTACKS

### TITANIA

She was still looking at me, I just wished for the ground to swallow me.

Her: Titania!

Me: Miyoba!

Her: I see you are back, in my best friend's house.

She turned & looked at Jeff.

Her: Jeffery?

Jeff: Just because you hate her doesn't mean everyone should.

She laughed.

Her: Yeah... what business do you have here? Shouldn't you be with Duncan?

I kept quiet.

Her: I wonder how dad will feel about your presence.

Me: I'm going to bed.

I started walking away but she grabbed my hand.

Her: You are not going anywhere until you tell me what business you have here.

Me: Miyoba please leave me alone, let my hand go.

Her: Not until you talk.

Me: What I'm doing here is not your business! Stop acting all crazy!

Her: If you are here to... to take the company away... I know how prodigal children can be.

Me: Company? I'm not here for your company or any of you people so be my guest & tell your father!

She looked at me, I could easily see the pain in her eyes. Something was just wrong with her.

She finally let me go then took her car keys & walked out.

Jeff stood up, going after her. I took a deep breath as I walked to my room. I lay on the bed immediately when I got inside. So much had happened in one day. My mind darted back to Oliver, a part of me still felt like he was mistaking me for someone else but then I have no twin out there.

### MIYOBA

The moment I got in my car I sped off. I was mad, I felt betrayed somehow. How could Jeff keep her, in his house then pretend he doesn't know anything when I talk about it?

My hands were shaky & sweating. The moment I parked in the garage I got off the car & got inside the house. My hands were just shaking. The bottle of whisky caught my eye, I walked up to it & opened it.

"I'm not a drunkard... I'm not crazy"

I kept chanting this in my head until I smashed the bottle against the wall.

"I'm not a drunkard... I'm not a failure"

I walked to my bedroom then took my pills from the dressing table. I didn't understand why I had to take these pills because I'm not crazy, I'm anything but not crazy. I threw them on the floor that they scattered all around. Before I knew it I was crying...I'm not crazy.

"You are not crazy, you are special..."

I remembered his words. He believed I was not crazy. Natsu was my first real boyfriend. It all started off when I went to boarding school. Things were a bit hard for Jeff & I. Natsu was the head boy, was a year older than me. It all started as a simple hi, which turned into a lot of heys. Jeff never liked him because it was clear enough that Natsu was a player. I told myself I will never fall for the arrogant womanizer but the opposite happened. I fell hard for him, I was still young & probably didn't know what love was but I knew I loved him.

Our relationship was bumpy as hell but I always managed to store the good moments & cherish them. When I was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder, he was there for me. Only him, knows that I have bipolar disorder, we had to pay some guy & his girlfriend to pose as my parents because I didn't want my parents looking at me as a crazy girl. There are many times I felt like I was crazy but he always managed to make it all feel better. Then he left, he left me. He had to go to China for school. I felt betrayed because we had planned our future together, that we would go at the same school but he chose to leave me.

After a while I found myself picking up the pills, one by one & putting them back in the container. I drank my regular dose then crawled into bed & closed my eyes. It didn't take me long to fall in darkness.

I could hear my name being called out but it was faint. The voice continued to grow louder by the second. I opened my eyes lazily & they came across moms'. She had the concerned look on.

Her: Miyo are you ok?

I just looked at her.

Her: Baby...your house... Was there a break in? The gate wasn't closed & the doors were unlocked. What's going on? There are broken glasses all over the floor... Are you ok?

She said helping me sit up straight.

Her: Are you ok?

Me: I'm fine.

I looked at the time, I was going to be late for work. I got off the bed.

Mum: Where are you going?

Me: To work mother!

Mum: Miyo... I'm here with your Aunts.

Me: Aunts? Why?

Mum: You need to meet your man's family.

Me: I'm going to bath!

I walked inside my bathroom closing & locking the door behind me. I took a quick shower. After I was done I walked out of the bathroom & mum was still sitting on my bed. She was holding my pills now. My heart momentarily stopped beating.

Me: Wh-what are you doing with those?

Her: What are these?

Me: They are for Jeff's friend, she was here yesterday & had a breakdown.

Her: She has bipolar? I know these pills. Remember your cousin? Shikaku? She has bipolar & these are the pills she takes.

Me: Yes, Jeff's friend has bipolar... We had to take her to the hospital yesterday so I came back late & was tired.

Her: Ok. As I was saying Miyo, you need to be with your husband's family.

I took a deep breath of reprieve as I walked to my closet.

Me: And I need to be in a meeting at exactly 8AM.

Mum: Miyoba!

Me: Mother who is going to run the company while I play wife?

Mum: You will. You just have to move there. Its tradition.

Me: So I stay with his family. What about him?

Mum: You will stay with his family until he marries you. White wedding.

Me: White wedding? There's no white wedding happening!

I said putting on my clothes.

Mum: Ok fine but you have to go there.

Me: Or what?

Mum: You are an engaged woman Miyoba! Stop acting like a child! If you don't want to go to his family's house then you are going to his house today!

I kept quite putting on makeup, after I was done I took my handbag & a few files.

Me: I'm going to work!

Mum: You will find us here when you come back.

Me: Do as you please. Can I get those? I need to drop them at the hospital.

I said pointing at the pills. She gave them to me.

Me: Bye

I said walking out of my room. Getting in the sitting room, various women were sitting there. I only recognized one or two, the rest I didn't know them.

Me: Morning.

They all responded. I walked out immediately after they responded, straight to my car then drove to work.

### SCARLET

I was trying to tie my hair when Twanda walked in. He was already dressed for school.

Him: Hey... where is mum?

Me: Please there is something called knocking & she left already.

Him: I'm sorry... do you think maybe what Uncle Dee was saying is true?

Me: What he was saying was total bullshit! Mum would never cheat

Him: Or maybe they picked me up from the garbage can?

I started laughing.

Me: Yeah. Maybe.

He laughed.

Him: I have a football game today.

Me: I thought you quit?

Him: Not exactly. Can you please come?

Me: I work the whole day.

Him: The game is starting at lunch. Please?

Me: Ok.

Him: So yesterday. The silver BMW X6 which dropped you!

Me: It was a lift I was offered.

Him: I wouldn't mind if you have a boyfriend who drives such a car!

Me: Can you go to school?

Him: Shit! I love that car.

Me: Bye!

Him: These days you dress differently.

Me: I don't want to scare customers off.

I was wearing a reaped jean, a white vest that I had tucked in, a denim oversized shirt unbuttoned with a vans sneaker not forgetting a cap.

Me: I'm out!

I walked out of my room, kissed Michelle who was eating on her cheek then left. She was feeling much better today that mum even went for work. As I walked to the bus stop, I heard someone calling me that I stopped on my tracks & looked around. It was Vlad. The moment he reached me, he stepped out then we did our own handshake.

Him: Where are you going?

Me: Town. I found another job.

Him: So you are juggling two jobs at once?

Me: There's no other way.

Him: Yeah... let me drop you.

I got in his car & he started driving off.

Him: I need a favor Carl.

Me: Talk to me.

Him: Lilith was arrested yesterday.

Lilith is his girlfriend.

Me: Shit!

Him: Yeah, someone framed her.

Me: That's fucked up.

Him: Yeah... & we had a deal we needed to pull off today.

I kept quite & listened.

Him: There is this guy we wanted to give a little visit, he keeps money in the house.

Me: Oh, ok?

Him: Lilith was supposed to distract him as we took the cash so now since she's in jail... we need to find another girl.

Me: You want me to help you find a girl?

Him: These days people aren't loyal so you never know. We need someone we can trust not to snitch on us.

Me: Wait, & that person is me?

Him: Think about it... we talking fat money here.

Me: Vlad!?

Him: I know it's not your style. But it's just a once off.

Me: No! You must be kidding me!

Him: It's just a once off job, you won't have to do much. Just distract him that's all.

Me: You want to put me in your illegal equation!

Him: Carl... Please... You are the only one... come on... we from long back! I helped you get the job at the bar. Come on.

Me: So you want me to repay you for helping me get a job?

Him: No... Carl you are my last stop right now.

Me: Whatever you are smoking is destroying your brain!

Him: Ok... you are forcing me to do this... how's Michelle?

Me: You are going to put my family into this?

Him: It's your choice. Either you do it or...

Me: I thought we were friends

Him: Yes & friends help each other!

Me: You bastard!

His car was at the bus stop, he had long parked there. I got off, luckily there was a taxi. I got in the taxi. I still couldn't believe he wants me to be part of his illegal business. Illegal business is dangerous. It always ends in two ways & that is death or jail. All my life I vowed to myself that I will never find myself doing illegal shit. I arrived at work right on time. Antoinette & other workers were already in.

Antoinette: Hey.

Me: Hi.

I got behind my counter.

Antoinette: Boss lady was here.

Me: Oh.

Antoinette: Yeah... she just hired a manager for this place.

Me: Ok.

Antoinette: Some Lady called Mirajane.

Me: Ok.

Antoinette: And there are flowers which came for you.

I looked at her surprised.

Me: For me?

Antoinette: Yeah.

She took out some red roses from under her counter then handed them to me.

Me: They are from?

Antoinette: I don't know.

They were fresh flowers & smelt nice. There was a note. I took it out.

"Hope you didn't catch a cold"

It was Quinton & I was sure. I walked with the roses to the dustbin & tossed them in.

Antoinette: What did you do that for?

Me: I don't need them.

Antoinette: They are beautiful.

Me: Who cares?

Antoinette: I do!

She walked to the dustbin & took them.

Antoinette: I will keep them for myself.

Me: Whatever.

### TITANIA

The whole morning I was in bed talking to Oliver, well he called me around 6AM. He was actually surprised that I picked up because to him he expected me to hang up before he even said more than two words. To be honest Oliver is very sweet, I spent the whole morning laughing in my bed. He made me forget all my problems, made me forget Duncan. For the first time I found myself laughing so hard, but then that's how it was with Duncan at first.

Him: We can always meet up today.

Me: Yeah.

Him: And yeah... there is a vacancy at my friend's wife's company.

Me: Ok?

Him: Yeah, but it's not that much of a special job.

Me: What is it?

Him: They need a personal assistant for the Magazine Editor.

Me: A Personal Assistant?

Him: Yes.

I laughed.

Me: That's great.

Him: That's what I thought too & the pay is good.

Me: How much is it?

Him: K5000 ($500) monthly.

Me: That's not bad.

Him: Yes... & I can always put in a good word for you whenever they need a model because it's a fashion company.

Me: Yeah... beggars can't be choosers.

Him: We will still keep on looking for a better Job... do you have a degree?

Me: No.

Him: So you will take it?

Me: Yeah.

Him: Great... let me come over & pick you up.

Me: I'm starting today?

Him: Yeah... before they find someone else.

Me: Ok.

He then hung up, the job wasn't exactly my ideal job but at least I will be making money. I got out of bed then went & took a quick shower. After bathing that's when I actually realized I had no enough clothes. Only a few jeans Mwangala gave me. I just wore the jeans then fixed my weave. After I was done I went to the kitchen. Mwangala & Jeff had already left for work so I was alone.

I fixed myself instant porridge as I waited for him. He's car pulled at the gate after I was done eating. I rushed to my room & looked at myself on the mirror. The bruises were gone. I grabbed my bag then got out, locking the house. It seemed like each person had their own key so Mwangala even made one for me. I walked to his car as he got out. He greeted me with a tight hug & I could smell his Cologne. He smelt so good that I wished to hold on to him forever. We broke the hug after a while.

Him: Hey.

Me: Hi.

Him: Ready?

I nodded.

He held me by my hand then walked with me to the passenger seat & opened the door for me, something Duncan could never do.

I got inside the car then he closed the door for me. He walked to his door & got in.

Him: How did you sleep?

Me: I slept well, do you think this is good for a first impression?

Him: To me it is but we can always pick something formal for you.

I was only left with about K200 from the money Mwangala gave me. It wasn't enough to buy me a good cloths.

It's like he read my mind.

Him: Don't have enough money?

Me: My cards are all declined.

Him: I won't ask but I will pay.

Me: You don't have to.

Him: I want to.

He drove to some boutique. Getting inside the prices of those clothes were just insane.

He picked out this other Lacey black skirt, with a black silky long sleeve shirt then some heels.

Him: Go try them on.

I took them then went to try them, surprisingly they fit perfectly. I walked out.

Him: You look Beautiful.

Me: Thank you.

He took my hand & walked with me to the cashier. He paid for them while I had them on. As we walked out he removed the price tags.

He opened the door again for me. He used the back gate that led to the underground garage when we arrived at the company.

Me: What's the name of the company?

Before he could respond his phone started ringing. He answered it with an annoyed look.

Him: Hello... Isn't she supposed to stay with you just until...? I'm kind of busy right now. Bye.

He exhaled putting his phone in his pocket.

Me: Everything ok?

Him: Yeah... let's go.

We got off the car & walked in using the backdoor. He was holding my hand all along.

Me: Why are we using the backdoor?

Him: It's much faster.

We walked inside the elevator. The way he was looking at me I was starting to even feel shy.

Me: What is it?

Him: You are really beautiful.

Me: Stop it.

Just then Elevator doors opened & we got out. He led the way until we got in some office. It was a lady & she was pregnant. The moment we got inside she stood up & walked up to him & gave him a tight hug.

Her: Oliver!

Him: Natasha!

Her: How are you?

Him: I'm good, you?

Her: I'm happy.

She said rubbing her tummy.

Him: That's great, how far are we?

Her: 7 months.

Him: It's almost time.

Her: Yeah. I know right?

She looked at me.

Her: And who is this beautiful woman?

Him: She's a special friend.

She came over to me then hugged me.

Her: Hi, I'm Pat.

Me: I'm Titania

Her: Wow. You so pretty.

Me: Thank you.

Oliver walked up to us & put his hand on my waist.

Him: This is her.

Her: She's perfect.

Him: Yeah, this is the magazine editor.

Me: Nice to meet you.

Her: Likewise. I'm glad you are here... I really need help around here, this pregnancy is making things a bit difficult for me.

Him: Can I leave now?

Her: sure.

He gave me a kiss on my cheek.

Him: I will pick you up after work. Is that ok?

Me: Of course.

Him: Ok, adios.

He then walked out leaving me with Patricia. She looked like a nice person.

Her: So can we get started?

Me: Yes.

Her: Can you start with my table first. It's kind of messy in here

Me: Ok.

I cleaned her table. Placing files in alphabetical order & just putting everything in order.

Her: Thank you... now we can start with my personal preferences.

She started telling me what she wants in the morning & on lunch. How she likes her things to be done. It was pretty simple.

Her: Do you think you can manage?

Me: Yes.

Her: Good, we have a meeting just after lunch with the CEO, she's hands on everything that happens, so she needs to be updated.

Me: I can't wait to meet her.

Her: Great! Oliver tells me you are a model.

Me: Yeah.

Her: That's nice.

Me: Yeah.

Pat was a bit talkative & also at the same time comfortable to be with. I was sure I was going to enjoy my time here.

### MIYOBA

Me: This is beautiful!

Him: Thank you Ma'am.

Me: These pieces are really beautiful.

I said brushing my hand over the jewelry. Not only do we make clothes but we also make jewelry. I was sitting with the jewelry making team.

Me: This fashion show is going to be a blast!

They smiled.

Me: You can go now, I'm happy.

They stood up & left with the jewelry. I tried to push mum at the back of my mind but she kept on creeping in. There was no way I was moving in with him or his family. Jeff has been calling me but I have not been picking his calls. What he did was just too much. I was still hurt. It was almost lunch when I realized I hadn't eaten anything the whole day. I stood up, took my bag then walked out. Getting to my car I drove to my favourite restaurant. As I sat down I saw Quinton Lance, he's very hard to miss. He wasn't in a suit today but he still looked hot.

Our eyes met, he then walked up to me. I smiled as he sat opposite me.

Him: Hi.

Me: Hey, small world it is.

Him: Yes, how are you?

Me: I'm good but not so good.

Him: Why?

Me: I'm not a hooker.

He chuckled.

Him: My bad.

Me: Yeah. I'm actually an influential woman.

Him: You are?

Me: Yes, I'm the head of Friendly Fashions.

Him: Wow! Who ever knew?

Me: Yeah. Maybe we can do coffee some time.

Him: Yeah.

He looked at his watch then stood up.

Him: I'm afraid I have to go.

Me: It was nice seeing you.

Him: I know.

He then walked out holding his take away. I took a deep breath as I watched him walk away. I bit my lower lip trying to stop myself from blushing. Just then Jeff walked in & sat opposite me.

Him: You talked to him?

Me: Yeah.

Him: How did it go?

Me: Why is my sister staying with-...

Him: She's Mwangala's friend! I couldn't kick her out & she asked me not to tell you so to try to avoid what happened yesterday.

Me: Still you should have told me.

Him: I'm sorry.

Me: It's ok.

Him: What were you guys talking about?

Me: That we do coffee some time.

Him: You have really fallen for this guy.

Me: I have to have him... I have to.

Him: And how do you plan on doing that?

Me: I don't know but I really like him.

Him: Such guys are the type to only want to hit it.

Me: As long as I have him... I don't care.

Him: You are going to get hurt because to him it's going to be all about sex.

Me: I can't help it... let's go out for a drive after this.

Him: What about work?

Me: I will cancel all my meetings. What is Tits doing here?

Him: She's getting a divorce.

Me: A divorce?

Him: It seems like her husband was abusing her.

Me: That's interesting... So she ran away?

Him: Seems that way.

Me: Ok...let's order.

I said calling the waiter.

After the waiter took our order I looked at Jeff.

Me: So mum is at home... she has to drop me at my in laws house.

Him: Tell me you are joking.

Me: I'm not actually.

Him: So what are you going to do?

Me: I'm going to sleep at the hotel tonight.

Him: Then what after that?

Me: I will figure it out, right now I'm going to focus on the fashion show, that's all.

Him: I wouldn't wish to be you!

### SCARLET

Immediately when it was lunch hour I walked to the bus stop. There was a queue, and it was just long. I sighed as I joined it. I was even starting to wonder if I was going to make it back at work on time.

As I was still standing on the line the silver BMW parked right on the bus stop. He got out after a while & walked up to me.

Him: Hey.

I just looked at him then looked away.

Him: This queue is pretty long.

Me: What do you want?

Him: Did you get the flowers?

Me: They're in the bin.

He laughed.

Him: Ok... want a lift?

Me: Until I ask for it then I don't want it.

Him: You are never going to ask for it.

Me: Then get lost.

Him: Am I going to beg to help you again?

Me: You can always leave.

Him: I'm not leaving you, the line is not even moving.

Me: Can you just leave me alone?

Him: No.

Me: I have enough to deal with... I don't have to be dealing with your shit.

Him: You seem stressed.

Me: I'm getting tired now.

Him: I'm also getting tired let's go, its hot.

He said pulling me by my hand then opening the door.

Him: If you cause a scene they might call the police on me & I will get arrested but I have my sister's daughter to look after... she still needs me.

Me: I just-...

Him: Please get in.

He said pushing me inside then closing the door. He also got in.

Him: Where are you going?

Me: To my brother's school.

Him: Where's that?

Me: Where I stay.

He drove back home, the journey was filled with silence & I didn't care. All I kept thinking was Vlad. If I go to jail that will be the end of my mother, it will kill her. What example will I be setting for my siblings?

I came back to this world with him softly petting my shoulder. I looked at him.

Him: Are you ok?

Me: Yeah.

He was parked a few houses from mine.

Him: Where do we go from here?

I directed him to Twanda's school. He parked by the gate.

Him: What are you here for?

Me: You can go now.

Him: No.

Me: Quinton you don't have no business here.

Him: You are my business.

Me: Something is wrong with you.

I said getting off his car. I walked to the ground where I could hear noise. He walked behind me. When we got to the grounds, the school kids had crowded the whole place even the local residents. We walked across the crowd to the other side. I could now see clearly, it wasn't really hard identifying him. He was still playing I guess I came on time. Quinton was standing by me.

Him: Where's your brother?

I pointed at him.

Him: He plays way too good..

Me: He always played football from young age.

Him: How old is he?

Me: 18.

After a while they were on half time. I walked towards him.

Twanda hugged me.

Me: You are sweaty let go!

He let me go.

Twanda: You came!

Me: Yeah... but I need to go back to work

Twanda: Yeah.

Twanda then looked at Quinton.

Me: This my brother & Twanda this is... Quinton.

Quinton: I'm a friend.

Twanda: Nice to meet you Sir.

Quinton: No... please call me Quinton.

They smiled as they shook hands.

Twanda: How was I?

Me: You were great.

Just then some girl came. She looked at Twanda then at me.

Twanda: Mn, Carl this is Euphie, she's my girlfriend & Euphie this is my sister Carl & her friend Quinton.

She smiled shyly while I just looked at Twanda. I was just lost for words to say.

Euphie: Vlad's crew is coming.. They want to cause havoc for you Sis' Carl.

I looked at her.

Me: What?

Euphie: Yes.

Me: Quinton you should leave.

Quinton: Who's Vlad?

Me: Someone you don't want to meet... please leave... your car is... God you need to go.

Quinton: I'm not leaving without you.

Me: I can handle it, please leave.

I turned & they were really coming, I knew things were going to end bad if he doesn't leave.

Twanda: He's right... he will probably hurt you too. Leave with him.

Me: What about you? They won't leave you. You know what? Let's go.

We started walking away as Twanda bid farewell to his girlfriend, I hated doing this to him. He was in the middle of a game.

Me: I'm sorry

Twanda: It's ok... as long as you are safe.

Me: They won't come home... They respect mum.

We walked to his car, they had broken Quinton's Windows on all the doors.

It was really bad.

Me: Oh God no!

Quinton: It's ok... Let's leave.

He said unlocking the car. As we got inside he got cut by a glass on his hand.

Quinton: Fuck!

I took off my shirt then took his hand & tied his hand with it. He drove back home & parked inside the yard. I didn't care about Jezabella who was sitting by her veranda. We got out & knocked because it was locked but I was sure Michelle was in. She opened the door after a while, she was actually surprised to see us all. We got inside & he sat on the couch while I went to take mum's first aid kit. I walked back with it, He was talking with Twanda.

Twanda: Uncle Quinton says he can help me get sponsorship.

Me: You need to leave after this.

I said sitting next to him & unwrapping the shirt.

Quinton: While I'm still in pain?

Me: I will give you some painkillers.

Quinton: They make me sleepy.

I looked at him.

Me: Stop trying to piss me off! Your mother will come running for you.

Quinton: She passed on.

I kept quite as I treated his hand. I could see that it was painful but the quicker I get done with his hand the sooner he would leave to avoid him to getting hurt more.

After I was done bandaging his hand I gave him painkillers.

Me: Michelle please go get water.

She stood & came back after a while with the water.

Michelle: Mum is back.

Me: What?

Michelle: She's back.

# CHAPTER 6

## RETIREMENT

### SCARLET

My heart was just beating fast, black parents never understand things easily, and especially things like bringing a man inside the house, Their house. I knew mum was going to trip about it. I looked at Twanda.

Quinton: I'm sure your mum won't kill you.

Me: She won't kill me but she will kill you! You shouldn't have come here in the first place. God!

Quinton: But I'm here.

Me: Twanda?

Twanda: Ok.

Me: Can you go with him to his room, stay there until I tell you to come out.

Quinton: What about my car?

Me: I will deal with it... just go.

They stood up & left as I took the first aid kit & placed it in my room. When I came back in the sitting room mum had already gotten in.

Me: Mummy?

Her: Shouldn't you be at work?

Me: Yeah but we closed early today.

She just nodded.

Her: And the car outside?

Me: Some man parked it... he asked to park it there because he was going to the police, apparently the kids... the students at Twanda's school broke it.

Her: Ok... I'm going to rest.

She then walked away. Something was wrong but I didn't want to ask because it would prolong the conversation. The minute she closed the door I rushed to Twanda's room.

Me: Quinton you have to go.

Quinton: What about work? You should be there in 5 minutes.

Me: I will go to work tomorrow. You have to leave now!

Quinton: My hand is in pain.

Me: What the fuck nigga? Or you white?

Quinton: I'm 100% black.

Me: Don't make me throw you out through the window.

Quinton: I'm serious it's in pain... I didn't drink the painkillers, they make me drowsy & I hate pills.

Me: What do you do when you are in pain?

Quinton: I just face it.

Me: What do we do now? You need to leave!

Quinton: Let me call my friend so he picks Makeila from preschool then come & pick me up.

Me: No! You need to leave right away!

Twanda: How about you drive him to town? Then the friend will take it from there.

Me: Ok... let's go.

He stood up then we walked out to his car. I could see it wanted to rain. I got inside his car withhim at the passenger seat.

Me: Shush Michelle.

I said to Twanda who was standing by the window.

He nodded. I started driving away. As I was driving I saw Vlad's car parked by the corner of the street.

Me: Oh shit!

I turned then used another street.

Quinton: Why did you just turn?

Me: The street thugs were waiting for you, you should never come to the Ghetto, and they don't appreciate fancy half breeds like you.

Quinton: So basically it's not safe here.

Me: For you? Yes.

Quinton: What about you?

Me: I was born there, in the Ghetto... I grew up there, it is normal for me not sissy niggas like you.

Quinton: Won't you call your work place & tell them you won't be coming back?

I took out my phone from the pocket.

Quinton: You can't drive & be busy on the phone Carl.

I sighed in annoyance, then gave him my phone.

Me: Look for Antoinette.

He browsed through then put the phone on loud speaker as he dialed her number. It rang for a while until she answered.

Her: Carl?

Me: Hey, I might not come back, I have been caught with an emergency.

Her: Oh, ok, tomorrow then?

Me: Yes.

Her: Ok bye.

Me: Bye.

She then hung up.

Him: Can you please drive to Makeila's school?

Me: Where is her mother?

Him: Deceased.

I kept quite not knowing what to say.

Me: Can you please direct me.

He directed me to the preschool. It was actually a fancy preschool.

I parked by the gate.

Him: Let me go get her.

He got off the car then came back after a while with her. She was dirty & was holding some painting.

Quinton opened the door for her then she got in. After that he also got in.

Me: Can you now call your friend? I have to go back home before it starts raining

I said as I drove away from the preschool.

Quinton: Ok.

He Took out his phone then called the friend.

Him: Blank! Buddy I need a favor. Can you meet me at Arcades? I want you to take Makeila home... yeah... ok thanks.

He then hung up.

Me: What about you?

Him: I'm going to make sure you arrive safely at home!

Me: Do you have a death wish?

### TITANIA

I was inside the office fixing Patricia's schedule for tomorrow. Apparently the CEO had cancelled the meeting. It was almost time up.

Patricia: Are you done?

Me: ummh Yeah.. all done!

Patricia: Great, so tomorrow you will come on time.

Me: Definitely, thank you so much for the job.

Patricia: You are welcome sweetie.

I smiled as I stood up. My phone then started ringing, it was Oliver. I picked up almost immediately.

Me: Hey.

Him: Hey, are you done?

Me: Yes.

Him: You can come to the parking lot.

Me: Ok.

I then hung up.

Me: See you tomorrow.

I took my bag then walked out, straight to the elevator. Getting to the garage I spotted his car. I walked up to it & got inside, he was on the phone. He smiled as soon as I closed the door & kissed my cheek.

He dropped the call after a while.

Him: Hey.

Me: Hi.

Him: How was it?

Me: It was okay for a first day.

Him: That's great. I want to pass by some restaurant I'm ravenous.

Me: Is this what you do normally? Eating at restaurants?

Him: I'm not really a good Cook & I stay alone.

Me: I don't mind cooking.

Him: Really?

Me: Yeah.

Him: Should we go to my place?

Me: Sure.

Him: Great! But I don't have groceries.

Me: Can't we shop?

Him: Great idea.

He started driving away. We did some little shopping then he drove to his house. It was a flat, simple but very beautiful & a bit messy.

Him: I'm not the tidiest person on earth.

Me: I can see.

Him: Ok let's go to the kitchen.

He led me to the kitchen.

Him: Ok... this is it.

The kitchen wasn't so bad either way.

Me: I think it will do.

Him: Great!

I unpacked the groceries.

Him: I'm going to take a quick shower.

Me: Alright.

He kissed my cheek before walking out. As soon as I started cooking there was a knock on the door. I kept still for a while but the knocking still persisted & Oliver wasn't coming. I walked to open it, it was some man & woman. They didn't look so happy to see me.

Me: Evening.

The woman clicked her tongue then pushed me out of the way & got inside the house followed by the man. I took a deep breath praying that he would just come downstairs already!

Me: Good evening.

Man: Who are you?

This man looked like an old version of Oliver, no doubt that he was the father.

Me: I am Oliver's friend.

Woman: You see your son has started! Already bringing prostitutes home!

Man: Where is he?

Me: He's-...

Before I could respond he finally came, I was so relieved. Maybe he could just clear the whole misunderstanding that was going on.

Him: Mum! Dad?

Man: What is the meaning of this?

Him: Meaning of what?

Woman: Who's she?

She said pointing at me.

Him: That's Titania, my girlfriend.

His mum started laughing.

Her: The ancestors must be testing me!

Man: Young lady can you get your things & leave right now!

The mum saw my bag on the couch then she walked up to it & threw it at me!

Her: Out! And stay away from my son! Where did you get this whore?

I looked at Oliver, waiting for him to say something but he just looked down.

Man: Young lady!

I took my bag then walked out. I don't even know how I felt that moment, it all felt like a dream. I walked out of his house, out through the gate & just started walking. I was just feeling numb that moment. My phone started ringing, I didn't check who it was but I just answered.

Me: Hello?

Caller: My dearest wife!

I froze...

Me: Duncan?

Him: Stop pretending like you don't know me.

I couldn't talk.

Him: Ok Tits, how about we play nice. Just come back home on your own, I booked a flight for you for tomorrow. If you know what's good for you, you will get in that plane because if I get you Tits! I swear we will attend your funeral so I suggest you do what's best for you.

He then hung up. I started running ignoring that I was wearing heels. I just ran to wherever the road led me, shaking & crying.

After a while a bright light revealed my way, it was a car. It stopped then after a while I heard his voice behind me but that didn't stop me. I only stopped when I felt strong arms on me holding me in place.

Him: I'm sorry.

Me: Oliver no... Please.

Rather he held me tight & I couldn't hold it anymore. I let my tears out.

### MIYOBA

I lay on the hotel bed with my mind overworking each second. All I kept thinking about was Quinton. Our conversation earlier went well I guess. I took out my phone then googled him. I saved a few pictures in my phone. He is the most handsome man I have ever seen. He's dark eyes made him look a bit mysterious. I finally put my phone down then fell asleep.

Waking up the following morning I called at work. I needed an outfit from one of the best designs. As I waited for my clothes I had breakfast while busy on my tablet. I had to reply to a few emails but there was one which caught my eye. It was from Natsu surprisingly. Natsu & I stopped talking a year after he went to China when we broke up. I was surprised to actually receive an email from him. I opened it with my heart beating fast. It was just a sentence.

"Hey, how are you? Happy Birthday Miyo"

I sat there all confused, then it finally clicked on my mind that it was my birthday. How did I even forget my birthday? I stood up & walked to the mirror. I still looked the same, nothing had really changed except the fact that I was now 24. I retreated from the mirror due to the knock on the door. I walked to the door & opened it. It was Betty, with my outfit.

Her: Good morning Ma'am.

Me: Morning Betty.

She smiled handing the outfit to me. She was holding a small box.

Me: Oh thank you.

She also gave the small box to me.

Me: What's this?

Her: A birthday present from Friendly Fashions.

Me: Thank you so much.

She smiled then walked away.

After I changed into my outfit, that's when I finally opened the small box, it was a diamond bracelet & it complemented my outfit perfectly. My reflection on the mirror was pleasing but deep down I knew what I saw on the mirror wasn't what I was, it was just a cover. Quickly I left the room, I couldn't handle the lie anymore. I walked pass the reception & checked out. Just then my eyes met Betty's brother. He was standing right by me.

Me: Hi.

He turned & looked at me, then smiled.

Him: Miss. Hichilema.

Me: Miyoba please.

Him: Miyoba it is, how are you?

Me: I'm fine, I'm forever grateful for what you did.

Him: It's nothing, ever had more panic attacks since then?

Me: No... thank God!

He smiled again.

Him: Yeah.

Me: You look like Betty, in a male version though.

Him: I get that a lot.

Me: Because it's true, it was nice seeing you.

Him: I get that a lot too.

I then walked out straight to my car, as I was walking towards my car, my phone started ringing & it was mum. I had been ignoring her calls the whole night.

I finally answered.

Me: Mother!

Her: We have moved all your belongings to your husband's house.

Me: You what?

Her: We have moved all your belongings to your husband's house Miyoba! This game you are playing has to stop. Don't even bother to come to your house.

Me: Mother!

Her: I asked you nicely, you refused to listen.

Me: I'm going to Hawaii tomorrow.

Her: You are what?

Me: I'm going to Hawaii tomorrow.

Her: Miyoba, as you go to Hawaii who is going to take care of your husband?

Me: Whoever has been taking care of him! I have to go!

I then hung up, trust this woman to crush my morning.

### TITANIA

Last night when he held me in his arms I just lost all ability to fight. My life was finally going well or so I thought. My encounter with Oliver's parents left me heartbroken, and the call from Duncan just destroyed me. I didn't want to go back to the hell hole because no doubt he would kill me this time around. Oliver took me to a hotel, I didn't even fight him. I slept with him holding me tightly in his arms, I felt safe with him.

It took me a few hours to finally just sleep, because whenever I would close my eyes Duncan's face would just appear. Maybe I deserved it, I shouldn't have aborted the pregnancy, and I shouldn't have lost the second one. It was much clear that it was all my fault. When I finally fell asleep the whole world became peaceful, at least then I couldn't feel the pain.

When I woke up Oliver was still sleeping. Slowly I got off his embrace & walked to the bathroom. I washed my face with water then walked back in the room & took my phone that was in my handbag. There was a missed call from Mwangala, but I just ignored as I dialed Dave's number while I walked to the bathroom. It took him a while to answer & when he finally did a female voice was at the end of the line. My first instinct was to hung up but I needed him.

Her: Hello?

Me: Hi.

Her: Who you?

I rolled my eyes at the English.

Me: I'm Dave's sister, can I please talk to him?

Her: He aren't here, he bathing.

Me: It's about mum! Give him the damn phone!

Her: Dave!

I heard her call out. After a while I heard his voice at the end of the line.

Him: Hello.

Me: Dave, it's me!

Him: I know, what's good?

Me: Duncan called me yesterday!

Him: Shit! Don't worry, I'm on top of you, what did he want?

Me: He said he booked a flight for me & if I know what's good for me I should get in the plane.

Him: Don't come back, I will deal with it, he's going far this time.

Me: Ok

Him: Don't worry I got you ok, how are you?

Me: I don't know. Everything feels just numb.

Him: It will get better with time.

Me: I doubt it. I'm scared of my thoughts.

Him: Please don't hurt yourself. You still have a long way to go.

Me: Every turn I'm taking keeps on crushing.

Him: Just hold on ok... its life & it has its own ups & down. You will get through it. Have you contacted your family yet?

Me: I'm scared.

Him: Your parents love you so much, no parent can ever hate their own child.

Me: You don't know anything.

Him: Try calling them. Look, I have to go ok? Don't worry about Duncan, I will handle it... focus on getting your life back in line ok?

Me: Ok.

Him: Good.

He then hung up. With shaking hands I dialed dad's number. The one I had memorized when things started getting worse with Duncan. I had always wanted to call him but deep down something kept telling me he wouldn't want to hear any of it. The call led me straight to voicemail but I didn't hung up, maybe a voicemail would do.

"Hello... Dad it's me, Tits. I... ummh... I just wanted to say I'm sorry... I'm really sorry."

I immediately hung up, regretting doing that. I washed the tears away. I took a long shower & when I finally walked inside the room, Oliver was awake.

Him: Hey.

Me: Hey.

He walked up to me & held my hands.

Him: I'm sorry.

Me: It's ok.

Him: It's not... Come.

He said walking to the bed with me & making me seat on his laps.

Him: I think you are very special, & that you are very beautiful. First time I saw you I just knew I loved you somehow, through all your stubbornness I just knew it. I know it's too soon to say I love you but I do honestly. My parents... they married this woman on my behalf.

He kept talking but everything fell on deaf ears. The word married lingered in my mind making it hard for me to concentrate on what he was saying.

Him: Babe I know how it sounds like, trust me, but they engaged her without my knowledge & I don't love her.

I stood up.

Me: I have to go to work.

Him: Tits!

Me: I'm going to be late.

He hand me clothes that were on the bed.

Him: I bought more clothes.

Me: I will repay you.

Him: Babe you don't have to... please let's talk about this.

Me: You are engaged.

Him: I know & I didn't know. They just paid bride price without letting me know. I swear I didn't know.

Me: Still Oliver! Still! I have-...

He smashed his lips on mine, interrupting my speech that was being accompanied by tears. His kiss was full of hunger, desire but most of all the tenderness which lingered with lots of emotions. I followed suit behind his lead as he held me against him until I could feel his manhood on my tummy.

He didn't stop at any moment, but rather he pushed me on the bed without breaking the kiss. I was just lost in the kiss that I even forgot about everything & focused only on the kiss. My body shivered as he's hand went under the towel I had wrapped around my body. The way my body was just reacting to his touch was just too much.

He unwrapped the towel then his lips moved from my lips to my neck as his hands massaged my boobs. An involuntary moan escaped my mouth as he sucked on my neck. I could feel myself getting wet each second. His lips moved from my neck, to my boobs then down to my navel. The moment he buried his head between my legs I lost all my senses, I just lost it. He kept flicking & sucking, making my toes curl. He had my legs on his shoulder as he worked his tongue on me.

I found myself pushing his head deeper with my feet as I felt my body muscles build up. My body went stiff for a while before falling into an explosion that reaped me apart into smaller pieces. As my body tried to recover he was already kissing me hard, making me taste myself on his lips. He paused then looked at me.

Me: It's ok.

That was assurance enough to make him continue. He kissed me as his fingers made their way down to my cookie jar. Oliver was just different from Duncan, he knew where to touch & when to touch it. The way he kept on touching me, the way he kept on kissing me made me give up my body to him. He kept on whispering sweet nothings to my ears making me feel like I'm the only one in the world.

* * *

Him: Done?

He said as I fixed my weave.

Me: Almost.

Him: Hurry, you will be late for work.

Me: Done.

I walked out of the bathroom. He was already dressed.

Him: Can we go?

Me: Let's go.

He took my hand then led me out. We walked to his car then he drove me to work. The mood had changed, he was all touchy & I loved it but I still hadn't forgiven him for keeping that from me. That thought made guilty crap in my heart, I also hadn't told him about Duncan. At least on his side he didn't know. He parked by the parking Lot. Today I was using the front door.

Him: I will see you later so maybe we can discuss the way forward

Me: Yeah.

He briefly kissed my lips then let me go. I walked to Patricia's office & she was already in. She was on the phone. After a while she hung up.

Her: Morning.

Me: Hey...Am I late?

Her: No you are right on time, can you please go get me something to eat from a nearby restaurant! God! I'm so under pressure.

She said giving me money.

As I took the money I saw a glimpse of what looked like Miyoba from a magazine. I picked up the magazine & it was her. She looked beautiful no lie, actually she is. She's very beautiful that when we were Young I used to envy to be her. She's just pretty & when we were young I used to call her Angel because she was beautiful as one, & that was before she changed & started shutting me out. I put the magazine down.

Pat: That's the head of this company... She's just amazing, unlike her father.

Me: She's-... she's the CEO?

Pat nodded taking the magazine.

Me: Oh no.

I felt stupid for not even knowing the company I was hired in. If I knew this was Friendly then I wouldn't have taken the job.

Pat: She's pretty right?

Me: Very pretty in deed.

I walked out with the money. I just needed fresh air to think of my next move & I was sure its quitting the job. I walked to a nearby restaurant & for a while there I thought I wasn't seeing right. I walked closer & his voice confirmed it.

What was he doing here? Oliver should be at work not in this restaurant. I was already walking away when I realized he was with my sister. They looked like they were on deep talk that I listened closely to their conversation.

Oliver: Thing is I have a girlfriend & I don't want her to be dealing with this type of shit.

Miyo: Yeah... I still can't believe we are engaged!

### SCARLET

Her: You just don't leave when you want to, this isn't your mother's shop. You have to respect your job, who on earth do you think-...

Me: I think we are wasting time, can I please get back to work because this conversation doesn't seem fruitful anyway.

I said trying not to sound too annoyed. This Mirajane girl is really something, her being manager seems to be getting to her head. I get that I left but I informed Antoinette.

Me: Or am I getting sacked?

Her: You can go back to work.

Me: Thank you.

I walked out of the office then went to my counter.

Antoinette: How did it go?

Me: She's too loud!

Antoinette laughed.

Antoinette: I thought I was the only one who grasped that.

Just then a customer came inside or so I thought. She walked straight to my counter.

Her: Morning.

Me: Hello.

Her: You must be Carl.

Me: How can I help you?

She gave me the flowers she was holding then walked out. I was really starting to get pissed honestly.

I took the card.

"Can I pick you up after work? I'm coming either way... Please don't throw the flowers away"

Not that it was enough the trouble he put me through yesterday. His friends did come yesterday. Two friends in two different cars. One took Makeila & went away while the other one went with the BMW leaving us with the car he had come with. Quinton was unbending to drop me at home. We did argue about it but he wasn't backing down so he ended up dropping me at home. To be honest he was starting to become a nausea & I was starting to hate him.

I took the flowers & walked with them to the bin & without thinking twice I threw them inside together with the card. The way he was so persistent was so annoying & irritating. This time Antoinette didn't say anything but rather just stood up & walked to the dustbin & picked them.

Antoinette: They smell good.

She said sniffing them.

Antoinette: And they look expensive.

Erza: They sure do.

One of the workers said, I've never heard her talk. She looked shy, very shy for that matter. She's the type when you look at her she would look away instantly.

Antoinette: I'm going to keep them for myself.

She said placing them under her counter. I didn't say anything, I didn't have the energy to talk. I kept on thinking about Vlad, I didn't show up. I just couldn't do it, the way I'm so scared of Jail. I just hoped that Michelle was ok wherever she was. The shop started getting busy as time went on, for the first time I didn't feel like going to the bar. The whole week I had asked for days off & luckily Nate didn't give me trouble at permitting me but asked that I show up today. I didn't feel safe anymore, what if Vlad attacks me after work? I pushed the thoughts away as a customer stood in front of me. It was actually a young couple, Twanda's age or less.

They chose some cheap piece. Around lunch I went over to a nearby restaurant then bought a pie & a can of soft drink. After I was done eating I left the restaurant. Just as I walked out some white lady decided to bump into me & spelt what looked like soup on my white basketball T-shirt.

Me: Fuck!

I said taking a step back.

She looked at me.

Her: Watch your step!

I chuckled trying to calm down because I was really losing it.

Me: Excuse me?

Her: You are excused. What's wrong with Negros!?

Me: I will fucking discolour that white ass of yours, don't fuck with me! The fuck is your mummy teaching you?

She was actually surprised I talked back.

Her: Do you know who I am?

Me: Fuck you & who you are! I don't give a rat ass!

I said walking out, I knew if I keep talking I was just going to bang her head against the wall. My mood had just gotten worse. My T-shirt was just green in front now & I was smelling like fish too.

Antoinette: What happened?

She asked as soon I got inside the shop.

Me: Some whore!

She took off her jacket.

Antoinette: Wear this.

I took off the T-shirt & wore the jacket on top of my vest.

I was really pissed no lie. There was nothing wrong with her being apologetic. The rest of the day was just ruined. After work I walked to the bus stop. There was a queue as usual. I just stood there with my mind at home. Yesterday mum didn't tell me why she came back early & I didn't bother asking. I was just caught up in covering my lie.

I just stood listening to music. After a while I felt a soft tap on my shoulder. I raised my head & it seemed like it was my turn to get in the taxi. I got inside & sat down. My feet were already hurting.

Getting home, mum was home. She was cooking humming to only what she knew that she didn't even notice me when I made my way in the Kitchen until I closed the door.

She looked at me.

Her: Carl?

Me: Mummy?

Her: I need to talk to you.

Me: Ok but let me change first.

I walked to my room passing Michelle & Twanda who were caught up in the daily soaps. One thing I know is that you can't separate Michelle & Twanda from TV. I walked to the bathroom. I took a quick shower before going to my room. I wore my dungaree with converse with a bucket hat. I walked back to the kitchen. Mum was already done cooking & she was serving.

Her: Are you going to the bar?

Me: Not this today please!

Her: Sit down.

I sat down & so did she.

Her: Yesterday. I was given my retirement package.

I looked at her.

Me: What do you mean? Did you lose your job?

Her: I'm too old for the job.

Me: But you need that job!

Her: Scarlet, everything happens for a reason, I believe God has a plan for us because there is nothing that he can't do. He knows my tomorrow before I even know it.

### TITANIA

My sister & I have had a rough relationship from teenage years & I always try not to step on her toes. Maybe I was going to deal with the fact that he's engaged but not to my sister. Not to Miyoba. Immediately after work I caught a cab home. He being engaged to my sister changed everything. I switched off my phone on my way home, I just couldn't face the fact that I slept with my sister's husband.

# CHAPTER 7

## DEADLY ACCIDENT

### SCARLET

I Looked at her, she didn't look devastated that she had lost her job. I took a deep breath.

Me: ok... either way at the end of the month I will be making more than enough money.

She smiled.

Her: I know... how is it there?

Me: It's ok.

Her: Jezabella was here.

Me: You told her?

Her: Not that I got fired, but that I resigned.

Me: Thank God!

Her: She came to tell me something.

Me: Oh yeah?

Her: Yes, apparently there was a man in my house yesterday.

I stood up.

Me: Oh.

Her: Is it true.

Me: No it's not, bye.

I took my bag & left. The moment I stepped outside I took a deep breath. I was in for it & all because of Mrs. Gossip. I wished to just go to Jezabella's house & tell her what I think of her! No wonder her husband left. I quickly walked to the bar. Getting there, Katongo surprisingly was in.

Him: Carl!

Me: What are you doing here?

Him: I'm getting tired of sitting & not doing anything.

Me: So it's you & me tonight?

Him: Appears so.

It was already a bit busy.

Him: How have you been?

Me: Okay, I got a job in town.

Him: That's great actually. I was thinking of moving.

I looked at him.

Me: Moving? To where?

Him: Go hustle for a while.

Me: It's growing up.

Him: Yeah. I mean if-...

He got cut off by Vlad's squad getting inside the bar.

Him: What's going on?

Me: I think they are here for me.

Him: What did you do?

Me: He wants to put me in his illegal shit & I refused.

Him: Fuck! Should I call the police?

Me: You know they are not scared of the police.

Just then they were already at the counter. They were about 5.

One of them spoke.

Guy: Its either you come with us nicely or we drag you... Which one will it be?

Me: I'm coming.

Carefully I took my phone & put it on my waist then walked out with them. People were just looking at us & I could see that Katongo was panicking.

We walked outside & Vlad was there sitting on his car. To be honest I was scared.

Vlad: Carl! Carl! Carl! Aren't you happy to see me?

I kept quiet.

Vlad: You stood me up & that's not how friends treat each other.

He said getting off of his car & coming closer to me. He stood right before me then squeezed my cheek. I could easily smell marijuana & alcohol on him.

Vlad: And now you are going to pay.

He took off the bucket hat from my head, then removed the hairband that was holding my hair together setting it lose.

Vlad: What do you say? I trusted you as a friend & you chose to disobey me. What you did isn't what friends do. What should I do with you?

"How about you let her go!"

A voice said making me turn. I wished for the earth to just swallow me instantly. It was Quinton, this guy will be the death of me I swear! I don't think he understood how messy this could become.

Vlad: Oh there comes white boy!

Vlad walked up to him taking out his gun. I swear my heart just leaped in my mouth. Quinton didn't seem fazed, rather he kept his cool. His eyes darkened as he looked at Vlad.

Vlad: What are you looking at? It takes only a single bullet to end your life. Do you not know?

Quinton: This can get dirtier & I'm sure you don't want that.

Quinton didn't look like he was backing down. Vlad finally placed his gun back in his pants.

Quinton: Carl let's go.

Vlad: This is not over!

I looked around then back at him, a small crowd had already formed.

Quinton: Carl I said let's go!

He repeated again but a bit firmer this time around. I walked up to him. He walked to some car, he was using a different car today. We got in & he drove away.

Me: Do you realize what you have done? They are always going to make my life a living hell.

Him: I thought it was normal to you.

Me: You shouldn't have done that!

Him: I thought I was helping. What did you want me to do?

Me: I don't know, fuck off?

He didn't say anything but just continued driving. My phone started vibrating & it was Kat.

Me: Kat!

Him: Hey, you ok?

Me: Yeah.

Him: I don't think you should come back now.

Me: Alright.

I then hung up. We were in silence as he drove to God knows where.

Me: Where are you taking me?

Him: Nowhere, I'm just driving around to waste time because if I drop you home right now it will raise questions with your mother.

Me: For all I know you could be a serial killer!

Him: I'm not going to hurt you, I'm not serial killer, just a simple lawyer.

I kept quite then looked out through the window.

Him: Are you hungry?

Me: No.

He finally stopped his car. We were parked in front of a cinema.

Him: What could have happened if I didn't show up?

I shrugged my shoulders.

Him: You threw the flowers in the dustbin again?

Me: Did you expect different?

Him: Won't you ever get tired of doing that?

Me: Will you ever stop irritating me?

Him: No.

Me: Then I'm never going to get tired.

### TITANIA

Arriving home at Mwangala's house, I found them watching TV, well, she was, while Jeff was packing his clothes.

Jeff: Tits!

Me: Hey.

Mwangala: You look nice.

Me: I found a job but I think I'm quitting.

Jeff: Why?

Me: For the sake of peace.

I said as I walked to my room. It was the way I left it. I took off my shoes & the clothes then wrapped my body with a towel. My mind went back to what happened in the morning, his repeated thrusts, how he was handling me. Just then Miyoba came back in my mind. He's engaged to my sister. Had I known, I'm sure if she ever finds out she won't ever forgive me. I stood up & walked to the door. Opening the door I found Mwangala standing there.

Me: Hey.

Her: Hey, Dave called me.

Me: Okay?

Her: I'm glad you didn't go back.

Me: I was terrified.

Her: Where did you find a job?

Me: Friendly.

Her: Your sisters' company?

Me: Tell me about it.

Her: And you working there is going to cause problems?

Me: Too many problems.

Her: I understand but you don't have to quit for her. You have your own life to fix & you can't be making decisions based on other people.

Me: I guess you are right. Let me take a bath, it's been a long day.

Her: Okay.

Me: Hey do you have a morning after?

She smiled then walked to her room. She came after a while holding a glass of water & the pills.

Me: Thank you.

I drank the pills then gave her back the glass.

I walked to the bathroom & filled the bathtub. After a while I was just sitting in there wallowing in my world of pain. I got out of the bathtub after some time. All I wanted to do now was to sleep. Walking past the sitting room my eyes got stuck on Oliver. He was sitting with Mwangala & Jeff.

Me: What are you doing here?

Him: Can we talk?

I looked at Jeff & Mwangala.

Me: Wait for me outside.

I said walking to my room. Quickly I wore some jeans & the first top I saw then walked out. He was standing by his car.

Me: What are you doing here? You can't just budge in as you want, it's disrespectful.

Him: What's going on?

Me: Nothing.

Him: It can't be nothing... I couldn't get hold of you the whole day & you didn't wait for me after work.

Me: My battery died.

Him: Tits... please.

Me: I don't think we can be together anymore.

Him: Is it the marriage issue?

Me: No... it's me... I'm just not good for you.

Him: Babe... all you have to do is give me a chance, give us a chance.

Me: I want to but I'm just... Not good for you... I think you should try your marriage.

Him: I don't love her! She doesn't love me neither... we are being forced into this.

Me: I know but maybe its fate bringing you guys together.

Him: I love you & we are going to make this work Tits, no walking away.

He said holding me tightly. If my parents ever find out that I'm sleeping with my sister's husband, they will further be disappointed in me. Miyoba will never forgive me for this.

I pulled away from the hug even though I loved being in his arms.

Me: I'm sorry... I can't do this... I really can't.

I said before running back into the house, my heart couldn't take it anymore. I locked myself in my room.

### MIYOBA

Mum moved all my clothes. I was in my house looking around. There were no clothes in wardrobes. When I got here the door was locked, I had to call a few people to open it for me. As I looked around my phone started ringing & it was Jeff.

Me: Poodle

Him: CR7 I'm done packing already.

Me: Can't say the same.

Him: Why?

Me: My clothes are at my dearest husbands'.

Him: That's messed up.

Me: Yeah... we actually talked today.

Him: You did?

Me: Yeah... he has a girlfriend.

Him: Ok.

Me: Yeah & he so doesn't want this so we made a plan.

Him: Which is?

Me: That we will just go back to our normal lives & forget all this shit! We are not engaged.

Him: What about the rents?

Me: They will just have to deal.

Him: They are going to want grandkids.

Me: I'm sure I can get a doctor to write that I'm infertile.

Him: That's twisted but okay.

Me: Yeah... so I'm just going to buy a few clothes tomorrow before we go, then shop again when we get there.

Him: That's a plan.

Me: Yeah, the fashion show went well.

Him: That's great.

Me: You should have seen it.

Him: So where are you sleeping tonight?

Me: Hotel obviously.

Him: Alright, see you tomorrow.

We were leaving for Hawaii the following day. I took my bag then walked out. I drove out after closing the doors. I had planned to fetch my clothes when I return from the vacation. I drove to the hotel. When I got inside the hotel room after checking in, I finally took it upon myself to reply Natsu's email.

"Hi, I'm fine you? Thank you"

That actually took me a while to type because I kept on thinking it wasn't good enough but I didn't want to sound as if I want him back. I closed my laptop after replying. I was really bored that I decided to call Anthony.

Him: Yeah?

Me: Hey... be nice!

Him: We broke up, so what do you want?

Me: Are you already married, engaged or something?

Him: What do you want Miyoba?

Me: Can I visit you?

Him: No you can't.

Me: Ok... bye.

I then hung up. I never really call my Ex's but Anthony was rather good in bed & this moment I needed a really good fuck. I got off the bed, took my phone & walked out. I drove to some shop first then bought some sexy lingerie before driving to Anthony's house. He wasn't expecting to see me when he opened the door.

Me: Hey.

Him: Miyoba you-...

I kissed him, & as I suspected, he did kiss back.

Me: Can I come in?

He heaved a sigh before opening the door wide. I got inside & he's apartment still looked the same. Always messy with his artworks. Anthony is just an ordinary guy & we met at Pamodzi Museum. I actually went there with Jeff, or make it Jeff had dragged me there. I met Anthony there.

Him: What do you want Miyoba?

Me: You.

Him: We can't keep on playing this game... I get that you are the big shot out there but you just can't play with my feelings like this. I'm trying to move on.

Me: I'm sorry about what happened last time... it's just... Jessy was-...

Him: I told you she's my friend.

Me: I'm sorry... can I make it up to you?

I said getting closer to him.

Me: I know I have been a bad girl & I want to teach me a lesson.

I kissed his lips. He responded by taking off my dress. Before I knew it he was having me on the kitchen counters. Anthony is like a sex machine, he's the type to fuck you so hard that you will wake up & adjust to a new walk. Going to Anthony's house was definitely worth it. I woke up the following morning before him & tip toed out.

### SCARLET

I was already awake by five in the morning, my mind still couldn't comprehend what Vlad wanted to do. Quinton did drop me home at the usual time I knock off. He had to park a few houses from mine. The whole time we were in his car we were just quiet, I didn't want to talk to him because I was still mad. Maybe all he wanted to do was to help but doing that was going to make the problems worse. I was glad it was Saturday so I just woke up & started cleaning while listening to music while singing along.

" _I don't think she understands the sacrifice that I made,_

Maybe if this bitch had acted right I would have stayed

But I've already wasted over half of my life

I'd have laid down and died for you

I no longer cry for you

No more pain bitch you took me for granted

Took my heart and ran it straight into the planet

Into the dirt I can no longer stand it now my respect I demand it.

I'mma take control of this relationship command it.

And I'mma be the boss of you gaddamit

And what I mean is I will no longer let you control me"

After I was done cleaning I started washing clothes from outside. Washing in the bathtub makes my back hurt. As I was Washing, Quinton's car parked by the gate. He got out of his car & walked up to me as I removed my ear phones.

Me: God! I think I need to go to church.

Him: Hey.

Me: What do you think you are doing?

Him: What does it look like?

Me: Can you please... I'm literally begging you please leave

Him: I'm here for your mum not for you.

Me: Are you nuts?

Just then mum stepped out. Her eyes went on Quinton immediately. He walked up to my mother.

Him: Good morning Ma'am.

Mum: Good morning, how can I help you?

Him: I think we need to sit for this.

Mum: Ok, let's sit there.

She said pointing at the garden chairs that were by the veranda.

Mum: Carl please go cook soft porridge.

All I wanted to do was just grab Quinton & throw him out through the gate. Mum gave me a look when I kept standing that automatically I walked inside the house. Twanda was already awake.

Him: Whose car is that?

Me: Someone I hate so much.

Him: Don't you just hate everyone?

I started cooking the soft porridge. I was really curious on what they were talking about. Mum came inside after a while.

Her: Carl please go & bath.

Me: Why? Am I smelling?

Her: Scarlet!

I snorted walking away. After bathing I found her on my bed.

Me: Anything wrong?

Her: You have to dress accordingly.

She said pointing at a navy blue pencil skirt she bought me months ago but I never had the heart to wear, together with the top which had stripes & the heels.

Me: You know this is not my style.

Her: You have to dress accordingly.

Me: I'm not wearing that!

Her: you are going to wear it! You like it or not. You are not going to dress like a thug today, forget it. If you can't follow my rules then you might as well leave my house.

Me: What?

Her: You heard me... dress up.

She wasn't joking, she was being serious that I ended wearing the clothes. I didn't like what I saw through the mirror, not even one bit. I didn't feel comfortable. The skirt was hugging my body tight that it was hard moving my legs, then the top exposed all my shoulders & not to mention the shoes. They were just uncomfortable. If I had to dress to my own choice I was just going to take some jeans & a T-shirt. Mum even went to the length of fixing my hair & dressing my lips in her lipstick. I looked like someone I didn't know.

Me: I don't like how I look.

Her: You don't have to...take.

She said handing me my certificate.

Me: What's going on?

Her: Your friend outside managed to get you sponsorship. You will be going to school next year.

I looked at her.

Me: What?

Her: Yeah, so there is some paper work they need. You have to go there.

I was just speechless, I didn't even know what to say.

Her: Please don't disappoint me Scarlet Semakula.

Me: He... he got sponsorship for me?

Her: Yes... God has finally answered my prayers. Things are looking up. I told him you want to study business administration or has it changed?

Me: No.

Her: Let's go.

She said after spraying her perfume she got from work on me.

She also gave me her blue handbag, it was just a normal bag. When we got to the kitchen Twanda & Michelle couldn't believe it was me. I still couldn't too. I felt exposed.

Twanda: Who are you & what have you done with my sister?

Me: Ask mum.

Michelle: You look beautiful.

I faked a smile. Mum led me outside & he was still sitting by the chairs. He stood up & walked up to us.

Him: Is she ready?

Mum: Yes she is. May God be with you Carl, I will continue praying for you.

Me: Thank you.

He took my hand then we walked to his car. I wiggled my hand so he let's go.

He opened the door for me. I got inside then so did he.

Him: You look beautiful.

Me: What the fuck is this?

Him: I got you sponsorship.

Me: Yeah... yippee! What do you want?

Him: Why would I want anything? Because everyone always wants something in return?

Me: Yeah so say it... what do you want?

Him: I just want to see you happy that's all.

Me: I'm happy.

Him: Nah... You are always angry.

Me: That's just how I am.

Him: Hardcore, feisty, independent... that's what you are & I can't seem to get enough.

Me: Stop watching too many movies... You sound gay.

Him: If expressing my feelings sounds gay then so be it... I could be at a golf course right now, trying to get clients or working on some cases but I just don't want to be anywhere but here.

Me: Sissy ass nigga you are!

Him: I like you... you are different from anything I have ever seen.

Me: I hate you.

Him: I know you do but why?

Me: Because you are irritating & annoying.

Him: I shouldn't annoy you if you have no feeling towards me whatsoever.

Me: I do have a feeling... & that feeling is hate.

He smiled then started playing some song.

Him: Its Makeila's favourite even though she doesn't understand the lyrics.

" _In the middle of the night,_

In my dreams you should see the things we do,

Baby In the middle of the night,

In my dreams I know I'm gonna be with you so I take my time"

### MIYOBA

I was in a boutique trying to pick a few clothes with Jeff by me. The plane was leaving in an hour.

Him: You did what?

He asked raising his voice a bit high that he caught a few people's attention.

Me: Keep it down.

Him: You slept with Anthony?

Me: Yeah.

Him: I thought you got bored.

Me: It was just a one night thing.

Him: That nigga loves you, obviously it's not to him.

Me: He will get over it.

Him: No! He won't! Do you know you are breaking his heart? You cannot be hurting people like that.

Me: So what should I do?

Him: You are going to call him right now... you can't just be using people like that.

Me: What? I'm not calling him.

Him: Yes you are.

Me: Sometimes Ex's are useful.

Him: Call him.

I laughed dialing his number. Jeff was giving me that look.

He answered after a while.

Him: So you left?

Me: I'm sorry. There was an emergency at home... there was a break in.

Him: Really? You should have woken me up.

Me: I'm sorry, but you were peacefully sleeping.

Him: It's ok... I'm submitting my art work to a museum today. Wanna come with?

Me: I would love to but I can't... I'm trying to get a client from Hawaii. It's a major client & I can't just drop her.

Him: Alright, it's cool.

Me: Yeah... ummh. I love you.

Him: I love you too.

Me: Ok I have to get going... Bye.

Him: Bye.

I then hung up.

Jeff: You love him?

Me: I only say what I have to say at a particular moment.

Jeff: You scare me.

Me: Let's go pay.

We went & paid. After that we were going to be driving to the airport. As we walked Jeff stopped & looked at some restaurant.

Me: What?

Him: I thought I saw Tits.

I walked up to him & looked through. The girl was facing the other side but I could tell that it wasn't my sister.

Me: That's not Tits, Tits doesn't do hair buns. I know her & that's not her & look at the way she's sitting. Tits always maintains a certain position.

Jeff: The way you know her like the back of your hand.... maybe you need to call her.

Me: No! I might know her but I have no business with her.

Jeff: I give up!

Me: Thank you.

We walked to my car. From there I drove straight to the airport. Just as I took the turn to the airport I don't know where the girl came from but I just saw her running in the road. I panicked stepping on the breaks. I don't know what happened next, the last thing I remember is Jeff's voice calling my name.

### TITANIA

Early morning I received a call from Cristobel. She wanted to see me for breakfast. I was forced to wake up a bit early. My eyes were swollen from all the crying I did last night. I was just heartbroken. After bathing I took a cab to where Cristobel said we should meet up. She was in her car that I had to get inside.

Her: Hey.

Me: Hi.

Her: Can we handle this at my house?

Me: Ok.

She drove to her house. It was a beautiful house. I was surprised when I saw kids running around, two kids.

Me: Are they yours?

Her: Yes, the boy is Luffy & the girl is Lucy.

Me: Beautiful names.

Her: Yeah.

We got inside the house.

Her: Let's go to the study.

We walked to her study.

Once we sat down she took out some papers.

Her: So what have you decided?

Me: I want my half share of what I should get.

She smiled.

Her: Now you are talking business. I'm sure he's going to bring big lawyers but don't worry, Lance firm Agency got you.

I smiled.

Me: I'm glad.

Her: Don't worry, Mwangala gave me some pictures of how your face looked like.

Me: Duncan is dangerous.

Her: But is he dangerous enough? You also said he's having an affair?

Me: Yes, but so was I.

Her: Yours stopped but his is still active. I'm going to turn this whole thing on him.

Me: Am I missing something?

Her: No... but my father was very abusive & I never got the chance to get justice for my mum.

Me: I'm sorry.

Her: I know through you I will be doing justice for her.

Me: Yeah.

Her: Want juice?

Me: Yes please.

She stood up & walked out. After a while she was back... or so I thought. It wasn't her, rather some man, huge chest handsome dark man.

I have to say this, he was super sexy, and he had that déjà vu with him. He was really hot. His pinkish lips just looked so tasty. I looked away when he chuckled. He was just making things very hard for me as he was shirtless. He looked like he was from a run.

Him: Hey girlie!

God his voice, so deep & rich. God!

Me: Hello.

Him: Where's Cristobel?

Me: She-...

Just then Cristobel got in.

Her: Oh, Tits this is my husband Dyna & babe this is my client Tits.

How I wanted her to say that's her husband's brother.

Me: Nice to meet you Sir.

Him: Please... Dyna will do.

He said smiling, I kept a straight face. I wouldn't want Cristobel to think I'm all hovering on her husband.

He walked out after a while. Cristobel handed me the juice.

Me: What a beautiful family you have.

Her: Don't judge the book by its cover... what meets the eye isn't what the truth always is.

Me: Problems?

Her: Yeah but anyway, looking at Duncan's assets he-...

She was cut short by my phone ringing.

Me: I'm sorry...

I said taking it out. It was Mwangala.

I answered.

Me: Hey.

She was quiet.

Me: Mwangala?

Her: Your sister got in an accident with Jeff.

My heart stopped for a moment. I couldn't comprehend, I just froze.

Her: And Jeff... he...he didn't make it.

Me: Oh My God!

# CHAPTER 8

## FRIENDLY UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

### SCARLET

I Zipped my jacket while fixing my cap. I was on my way to work in Quinton's car. Ever since he charmed his way into mum's heart he has taken advantage of the situation & is always on my door step every morning. He, & mum agreed on keeping me 'safe' because Quinton decided to tell mum what happened at the bar. They even made me quit my job at the bar. It's been 2 weeks after he told mum about the whole sponsorship program. Apparently he registered me at his company, his boss agreed on sponsoring me to do business administration surprisingly. Well I didn't meet the boss, thank God because I was sure I was just going to freeze, so he spoke to his boss on my behalf, then submitted my paper work. Next year I will be going to school & I was very pleased. Yes, he is still bilious but since the last two weeks I have been trying to learn to tolerate him.

It was raining as he drove to town, not very hard, but he constantly had to reduce the speed here & there. He was busy talking to someone through a Bluetooth device.

I wasn't listening to him because it was just things I didn't understand. He was in a suit, I have gotten used to see him in a suit now. He stopped talking after a while.

Him: Coffee?

Me: Are you talking to me?

Him: Yeah, do you want coffee?

Me: No. I'm good.

Him: Ok. How was your night?

I looked at him, he has a tendency of asking personal questions. I just kept quiet. Vlad hasn't bothered me ever since & I too have been making sure I don't bump into him.

Him: I take it as 'it was good.'

Me: Whatever keeps your ship sailing.

Him: How's Twanda's exams coming, I hardly see him these days.

Me: He says they are fine.

He parked in front of the shop. When I tried opening the door I realized it was locked.

Me: What's this now?

Him: I want to ask you something & please be honest with me.

Me: What is it?

Him: If you ever had to lose anything, what would you lose by being with me?

Me: My peaceful environment?

Him: You think?

Me: Yes & I would gain you irritating me further, I don't want that.

Him: You have never been in a real relationship have you?

Me: What's that got to do with anything?

He unlocked the doors then got out of the car. He came to my side & opened the door. I got out of the car together with my bag.

He took off my cap.

Me: Quinton-...

Him: Stay still... don't move & no talking. Can you do that?

Me: It's too early for this.

Him: Just for a minute please. Just stay still, don't move or talk.

He said leaning over to me. Quinton is tall but not that much taller. I get up to his shoulders I think. The way he was looking at me was different from how he ever looked at me & that made the air around me very hot. Slowly he closed the gap between us, my heart was just beating hard against my chest. I'm sure he could just hear it. I was in that situation where I just wanted to turn & run but my body just felt heavy, my legs couldn't move. Softly he brushed his lips on mine making my eyes shut automatically. I could easily inhale his intoxicating Cologne. His lips were so cold, my body calmed as he wet my lips & clumsily claimed them. I've never kissed before, only been kissed & that was by Kat, besides that I have never experienced such. His kiss was slow & I don't know but I found myself moving & following the flow. His hands cupped my face. After a while he stepped away from me leaving me standing still.

Him: How about you think about that?

He said before walking back to his car & driving away. It was still raining but in that moment it didn't even feel like it was raining, everything had just stopped.

### TITANIA

How I wish Mwangala hadn't called, how I wish she would have just laughed it out & told me what a joke it was, but soon after she said Jeff didn't make it, she broke into a loud cry. Cristobel had dropped me at the hospital Miyo was at, it all felt like a nightmare & I dreaded to wake up.

Getting there I was in tears, no one was telling me anything. It was frustrating, when the doctor finally spoke to me I just felt my knees get weak. Miyoba had suffered a lot of injuries & it was by miracle that she was still alive. Apparently she bumped into a bus which had 16 people & about 10 were injured but conscious, 2 were in intensive care unit just like her & 3 died.

What hurt was Jeff, he passed on right on the spot. It was very painful, Jeff & I were not close but it hurt so badly. His family buried him a few days ago. The way Mwangala cried. It hurt. Seeing Miyoba connected to so many machines just broke my heart. It's been 2 weeks since she's been like that. I know when she finds out that Jeff is dead it will kill her. Jeff is the only closest person she's ever had. Mum & Dad, well I had to be the one to inform them. When mum answered her phone I ran out of words to say. She, & I hadn't exchanged any words ever since I got married.

When I finally spoke I could sense she was surprised. Breaking the news to her was very hard & when I finally did she let out a scream. It took them a few hours to arrive at the hospital she was at. I expected them to isolate me but the opposite happened, they embraced me. I wouldn't trade that moment for anything, feeling the love from my parents.

It's been 2 weeks of pain but also of reconciliation. I had finally told them what Duncan put me through. Dad said what he only could say.

Him: I knew he wasn't good for you!

I didn't argue with him because I too had finally realized that he wasn't good enough for me. Cristobel had the divorce papers finally sent but there hasn't been any response so far. I was standing in Miyoba's room, holding her hand. She looked pale like there wasn't any life in her. Sometimes I wonder how God works!

I haven't seen Oliver ever since the day I broke it off with him. It hurt a bit that he didn't even bother running after me. Surprisingly I also haven't seen him here, even though he doesn't love her but it doesn't change the fact she's his wife to be. He can't possibly use the excuse of I didn't know because the news was all over, every newspaper & every magazine.

Me: Hey... it's me again. I wish things were different, I wish you & I were close. What happened Miyoba? Was it me? Did I do something? I'm sorry if I did.

I kept quite wiping my tears away. My heart felt heavy.

Me: Please stay... don't leave yet... I know maybe we aren't close but I still need you. When you wake up, can we fix things? Please. I will do anything to have my sister back.

I wiped away my tears. I removed the flowers that were in the vase then replaced them with the ones I had bought today. I opened the curtains then sat on the chair next to the bed.

Me: No one has taken Friendly, the Human Resource has been handling things pretty well. The fashion show paid off, the sales have been increasing surprisingly.

I just sat there the whole morning talking about nothing that made sense even making petty jokes. After that I went to work. Immediately when I got there, I got a call from Human Resource department that there was a meeting. An immediate meeting called by Mr. Hichilema, the chairperson of the company. That was my father & I kept wondering what the meeting may be about. I did tell him that I work at Friendly.

Patricia came after a while.

Her: Hey.

Me: There's a meeting in 10 minutes called by the Chairperson.

Her: Oh? What is it about?

Me: I don't know.

Her: Ok let's go.

I followed after her to the boardroom. Getting there, most people were already sitting down. I sat next to Patricia. Dad came after a while & sat down.

Him: My apologies people.

Everyone just nodded.

Him: The reason I called you here today is that this company can't be running with no head. It needs a leader who will lead it just until Miyoba comes back.

They all nodded.

Him: That person will lead up until Miyoba comes back or until the shareholders have decided otherwise. That person is Oliver Pelekelo.

That was a shell, for a moment I prayed & hoped it was not him but when he finally showed up & stood beside dad, I swear I died. I couldn't believe I was seeing him & neither could he when his eyes struck on me. He was shocked, I could almost see the shock in his eyes.

Dad: This is Mr. Pelekelo, your acting CEO. Please welcome him with love.

They applauded him.

Oliver: Thank you, I'm sure with your support there's nothing that will stop us from reaching higher places.

Dad: Meeting adjourned. Titania, can I please see you.

He said leaving everyone shocked. No one knew he was my father, I hadn't told anyone.

I followed after him.

Dad: Tits.

Me: Dad.

Dad: How have you been?

Me: I'm holding on.

Dad: And your divorce?

Me: It's... it's still pending.

Dad: Ok, I just wanted to tell you that you can't be working as a P.A in your own family's company. You are going to move positions, since your work mate is heavily pregnant we have decided to give her some days off. So you are going to be taking over her place.

Me: Me?

Him: Yes you... Starting from tomorrow.

### SCARLET

The whole day my mind wasn't in place. I just felt numb. Nothing & no word could explain my emotions that moment.

Antoinette: Carl!

She called out as I had zoned out.

Me: Yeah?

Antoinette: I have been talking.

Me: Sorry, what's your story?

Antoinette: Since its Thursday I was thinking maybe we can have an outing tomorrow after work.

Me: Yeah but I don't think I will manage. I have somewhere to be.

Antoinette: Its ok, the weekend is always there.

Erza: I'm free tomorrow.

Antoinette: Great then we will have the outing.

It was around Lunch & so it wasn't so busy. Today I just didn't have an appetite. Just then some flowers were brought in & they were for me. I knew it was him. I took out the card.

"Is what happened worth it Carl? Or I wa's just a mistake?"

I still couldn't answer that question, it's like my brain had just shutdown. I placed the flowers under my counter.

Antoinette: Wow! Today you didn't throw them away!

Me: yeah.

Antoinette: It's going to rain apples and chocolate.

I didn't respond to that.

When I finally knocked off I didn't want to see him, I just didn't want to face him but as usual he's car was parked right in front of the shop.

I was even starting to think to just ignore him & walk to the bus stop but I knew he would drag me. I walked to his car & got inside. Surprisingly he was with Makeila & she was sleeping.

Me: Hi.

Him: Hey.

There was something a bit off about him today but I wasn't going to ask.

Him: How was your day?

Me: Ok.

Just then Makeila woke up. She started sniffing while clumsily wiping her tears.

Me: What happened?

Makeila: Lisanna... She let a scorpion bite me.

She said crying.

Me: Who's Kiana?

Him: A friend... its Lisanna.

Me: Come here sweetie.

I took her then made her sit on my laps.

Me: I'm sorry ok... did you take her to the hospital?

I said looking at her bandaged hand.

Him: Yeah.

Me: She's your girlfriend?

Him: Who?

Me: The person who did this?

Him: She didn't do it on purpose... Makeila was busy playing with the scorpions.

Me: Still!

Him: She's going to be fine.

I looked at her & wiped off her tears. She looked so cute.

Me: You are going to be fine Okay?

She nodded.

Me: So how was school?

Her: It was boring as usual but I went to music lessons.

Me: So you sing?

Her: Yes.

Me: Wanna...ummh sing for me?

Her: Yes.

Me: Ok... hit it!

" _Not tryna be indie_

Not tryna be cool

Just tryna be in this

Tell me how you choose

Can you feel why you're in this?

Can you feel it through?

All of the windows

Inside this room

'Cause I wanna touch you, baby

& I wanna feel you, too

I wanna see the sunrise & your sins

Just me & you

Light it up, on the run

Let's make love, tonight

Make it up, fall in love, and try"

Her tiny voice caressed the lyrics so well. She sang too well for a 5 year old really.

Me: Is that what you sang today?

Her: Yes.

Me: You were wonderful.

She smiled.

Her: Even Mrs. Matakala said so.

Me: Because it's the truth.

Her: I can teach you some time, you can come home, right Daddy?

Him: Yes baby.

Me: Great! I would love to.

I said looking at him, "I thought Makeila was his sister's child."

She smiled.

He drove to some mall. I didn't say anything as Makeila was beginning to sleep. He went to buy some take away then came after a while. She was asleep then.

Him: Is she's sleeping?

Me: Yeah.

Him: Can I please drop her at home, she has had a long day.

Me: It's ok.

Him: Thank you.

He drove to this house I guess. It was just big but not that much huge, just a two story. He parked behind the BMW then got off the car. He came over to my side then tried to take Makeila from me but she held on to my neck not letting me go.

Him: Can you please-...

Me: It's ok.

I got off the car holding her. I think she was awake though. He led the way inside his house. Getting inside, it was really nice but there was a lot of space with no furniture.

Him: Welcome to my little cave.

Me: Yeah.

Him: Come.

He started walking upstairs. I followed behind him, minding my every step. Finally getting inside Makeila's room it wasn't what I expected. I thought I would find pink & a lot of dolls but it was the opposite. It was mainly purple & not even one doll.

I placed her on the bed but she still wouldn't let her grip off my neck.

Me: Makeila?

Her: Please don't go.

She said with her eyes closed.

Me: I have to go home.

Her: Please... I'm scared to be alone.

Quinton: Aunt Rose is-...

Her: I don't like her... please stay.

I exhaled before lying beside her. Quinton just shrugged his shoulders before walking out.

Me: Makeila?

Her: Please don't leave me just like mummy left me.

That touched my heart.

Me: I won't.

Her: Promise me.

Me: I promise.

Her: I hate Lisanna.

Me: Hate is a strong word.

Her: She doesn't like me.

I laughed.

Me: Why?

Her: She's a freak!

Me: That sucks!

Her: You are not... I like you.

Me: Well I like you too... can you sleep now?

She giggled before burying her head on my neck. It didn't take long for her to fall asleep.

Slowly I got off bed then walked out. Going downstairs he was sitting by the stairs.

Me: So your girlfriend let's such things happen to a child?

Him: She didn't let it happen on purpose.

Me: It shouldn't have happened in the first place.

Him: Mistakes happen plus Makeila was-...

Me: Stop making lame excuses for your girlfriend.

Him: Will you stop making noise?

Me: Fuck you & your girlfriend! Asshole!

I said walking out. He grabbed me just before I could get hold of the door & pushed me against the wall.

Him: Fine! You drive me crazy! She was wrong. I admit... I'm sorry. Please don't go... just yet. Stay a little longer.

### TITANIA

I placed my bag on the bed then stripped off my clothes & went to take a quick shower. After bathing I wore my PJ's & sat in front of the TV. I had finally Bought clothes, or make it mum did. I was still staying at Mwangala's house but she wasn't back yet. She was still mourning her brother. It still hurt, just yesterday he was here packing & now he's gone. Life sometimes is really unfair but I was just glad Miyoba was still alive. It could have been worse. I started browsing through the channels as my mind went back to my day. I spent the whole day avoiding Oliver, I just didn't want to see Him but I knew soon enough we will have to talk.

I hated to even think about it. Just then my phone started ringing. It was mum.

Me: Mum

Her: Tits, how are you?

Me: I'm good & you?

Her: I'm ok, I was thinking that maybe tomorrow we could meet up for lunch.

Me: That would be great.

Her: Ok. I love you baby.

Me: I love you too Mummy... don't worry about Miyo, she's going to be fine.

Her: I'm praying so.

Me: How's your blood pressure?

She has been going from hospital to hospital lately because of her blood pressure. This whole issue is affecting her badly.

Her: It's ok.

Me: Alright, I will see you tomorrow.

Her: Ok bye.

Me: Bye.

I then hung up. Mum blamed herself for what happened, the day she came to the hospital she kept on saying it's all her fault. I didn't even know how to calm her down, not even dad knew. The doctors had to sedate her.

Before I could put my phone down Cristobel called me.

Me: Cristobel!

What I heard wasn't Cristobel's voice, it was a male's voice.

Him: Hi.

Me: Who is this?

Him: It's Dyna, Cristobel's husband.

Me: Oh how can I help you?

Him: Cristobel says she wants you guys to meet up tomorrow at lunch.

Me: I can't, I'm meeting up with my mum.

Him: Well then, maybe after work?

Me: Okay.

Him: Yeah.

There was silence for a while.

Him: How are you?

Me: I'm fine Thank you.

Him: Me too.

I laughed.

Me: I'm sure.

Him: Yeah... I didn't see a ring on your finger, are you single?

Me: I'm divorcing my husband.

Him: But you look so young, how old are you?

Me: 23.

Him: And already divorcing?

Me: It was that bad.

Him: I'm sorry.

Me: No its ok, I'm over it.

Him: That's the spirit.

Me: Yeah.

Him: If you need a friend... I'm there.

Me: I will keep that on mind.

He then hung up. I went back to watching TV. Dyna seemed like bad news, real bad news. He looked like trouble & I knew I had to stay away, stay far from him. Just then as I relaxed my mind a text came through & it was Oliver.

"We need to talk!"

I switched my phone off after that. He & I didn't have anything to talk about as long as he's my sister's husband to be.

# CHAPTER 9

## DUNCAN DIES

### SCARLET

My breathing was slowly hitching with every minute he was staring down at me. He still had me against the wall.

Me: I want to go.

Him: Carl...

I couldn't even look at him, that's how much the heat was.

He moved away from me, taking a step backwards.

Him: I don't want to upset you.

Me: Then take me home.

Him: Ok.

He looked defeated somehow. He opened the door for me. I walked out with him behind me.

He unlocked his car & we got in.

Me: Who's going to stay with Makeila while you drive me home?

Him: Her nanny, you didn't see her but she's there.

Me: Ok.

He started his car & started driving. I was looking out through the window as he drove.

Him: You know I can never hurt you right? Physically I mean.

I looked at him.

Him: You don't feel safe around me do you?

I kept quiet, because honestly it's not like I don't feel safe around him or he's going to hurt me, it's just that I don't want to feel the way he claims he feels.

Him: You didn't throw away the flowers did you?

Me: I forgot them.

Him: So you kept them?

Me: I think so.

Him: That's something.

Me: Who's Makeila's mum?

Him: My sister... I told you.

Me: Then why does she call you daddy?

Him: Because my sister ran away when she gave birth to Makeila, I took it upon myself to raise her & so I'm the only parent she knows.

Me: Where's your mother?

Him: My step mum is there but she didn't want her.

Me: Your biological mum?

Him: Dead... I'm adopted.

Me: So your sister. Was she your biological sister or..?

Him: Biological.

Me: Does Makeila know about her mum?

Him: She's too young for that... But she seems to have figured it all out.

Me: Will you ever tell her?

Him: I don't know Carl... what should I say? Hey Makeila, your mum left you.

Me: But she already knows.

Him: Then I will leave it at that.

Me: Why did your step mum-...

Him: Carl please... let's not talk about her or anything that has to do with that.

I could see it was getting him upset so I kept quiet.

Him: You were smiling today, something you rarely do.

Me: Smiling?

Him: Yes... with Makeila.

I looked out through the window silently. Somehow I was feeling stupid for reacting the way I did & I couldn't seem to explain why I even did it in the first place. He finally parked by my gate then turned off the engine.

Me: I'm going.

Him: Wait... I'm going to Russia tomorrow.

Me: So?

Him: &I will be gone for a week or so.

Me: It concerns me how?

Him: I have planned transport for you.

Me: I can take myself to work.

Him: I know you can but still... I have prepared transport for you.

Me: Whatever.

Him: You won't be seeing me from tomorrow because my flight is at 6AM.

Me: Thank heavens!

Him: Please take care of yourself sugarplum.

Me: I've always taken care of myself.

Him: I know. See you when I come back then.

Me: Sharp!

Him: You are really something, not that I'm complaining but sometimes you just never fail to amuse me.

Me: Yeah... can I now go?

Him: Ok.

I got out the car & so did he. He walked with me to the gate.

Him: Can I please get a hug?

Me: NO.

Him: Until when will you stop running away from me?

Me: Please go back to your car.

Him: After this.

He swiftly pulled me in his arms & held me tightly. I tried to set myself free but he just held me tightly.

Him: The sooner you stop fighting me the better.

He said as he brushed my back. Finally I let him be, I finally relaxed my body trying to ignore the shivers from his arms around me, trying to swallow the feeling that was growing deep within me. He let loose but not fully letting me out of his arms.

Him: I'm scared when I come back you will be gone.

I looked at him, my brain had just shutdown. I couldn't even think of anything that moment.

He leaned over like he had done earlier, when his lips took over mine I just had this funny feeling erupting from deep within. He held me tightly like before, then forced his tongue between my lips. Sheepishly his tongue coaxed mine, teasing me here & there. I pulled away after a while, I was already breathing heavily. I pushed him a bit on his chest with my hands.

Me: I can't-i can't... I just-...

Him: Carl... listen-...

I didn't wait for him to finish up, I just ran to the door. Luckily it was unlocked. I refused to feel the way I was feeling.

### TITANIA

I sat on the chair, my new chair then rocked myself a bit. I stood up & walked around. I was confused a bit. I mean just yesterday I was a P.A & today I'm the boss. It was actually an advantage to me that I knew the drill now of how things work around though I don't think I was ever ready to be the magazine editor. I sat down again, just a few changes especially on the colour then it would be perfect. The colors in the office were a bit dim for me. I had been given a new laptop to work with & the company's credit card even though dad had given me one last week. He didn't exactly like the fact that I was squatting in someone's house so he gave me a credit card so to fend for myself. I haven't really used it but thank God he gave it to me because I was running low on cash.

I switched on the laptop then focused on the draft Patricia had been working on, speaking of Pat, she was actually relieved. She called me in the morning telling me how she was actually glad to just take a break from work. I was a bit early today because I was still on the mission of ' _avoid Oliver'_. As I was still busy on fixing here & there on Pat's draft I heard a soft knock on the door. Raising my eyes, it was Dorothy, one of my colleagues.

Me: Hey... come in.

She got in.

Her: I'm so happy for you.

Me: Thank you but Pat will come back.

Her: Well then better enjoy the moment while it lasts.

Me: Yeah... What's up?

Her: Oh yeah... there's a meeting in 3 hours, the acting CEO wants a preview.

I looked at her.

Me: A preview?

Her: Yes, he wants to be updated.

Me: How I wish Miyoba was here.

Her: Me too... I miss her. She is always smiling. She's a good person

Me: Yeah.

Her: We all miss her but you have to prepare your presentation.

Me: My presentation?

Her: Yes, you are going to be standing in for Pat.

Me: Oh no.

Her: Yeah but I'm sure you will pull it.

Me: I hate this.

Her: Have you seen how hot he is! I swear that nigga just makes the air around me thick. God! Even though I miss Ms. Hichilema, but hey! CEO bae is hot!

I just looked at her as she giggled like a high school girl with a crush.

Me: Let me start preparing for my presentation.

I said in order to dismiss her, she was beginning to annoy me.

Her: Good luck.

She said before walking out.

I smiled as she waved, walking out but soon rolled my eyes when she was gone. I took a deep breath before starting to work on my presentation. Those three hours I worked my ass off, trying to pull off a spectacular presentation. By 10 I was almost done or make it I was only left with wrapping up. It was pretty hard putting everything together. After a while, I walked into the boardroom. I smiled at everyone as I sat down. It didn't take him long to actually get inside & sit down. He was in a suit & looked good no lie.

Him: Good morning everyone. I would like to take this moment to apologize for this sudden meeting.

He said looking around until his eyes found mine. I took a deep breath breaking the eye contact & looking down.

Him: I was introduced yesterday but I'm still going to introduce myself again. I'm Oliver Pelekelo & I will be your acting CEO just until Ms. Hichilema comes back which I highly hope she does.

I could feel his eyes on me as he continued talking, I stopped listening & focused on my thighs. I couldn't find anywhere to look rather than looking at my thighs. I was brought back to earth as people where clapping their hands. I looked up & just joined in, I'm sure he was done with his speech now. From there each department started presenting. He kept on looking at me, his eyes would move around then come back to me. I was trying so hard to avoid his eyes but it just was hard.

When it was my turn to present, I just wished I wasn't there. His eyes were on me the whole time. He never took them off of me & I wished he would just stop. After I was done with my presentation an applause rose from my colleagues, even Dorothy winked at me.

When the meeting was over, I quickly stood up, packed my things & walked out. I just wanted to lock myself in the office & never come out. As I walked down the corridor I heard a voice calling my name, I turned to look & it was Dorothy.

She rushed towards me.

Her: That was off the hook!

I smiled impatiently as she went on praising me.

Her: You just took it all, you were amazing really.

Me: Thank you but I have-...

Her: You just surprised everyone, even impressed Mr. Pelekelo, the way he was looking at you I'm sure he was taken aback.

Me: I'm sure but Dorothy... I'm pressed right now, I'm going to pee on myself if I keep standing here.

She laughed, her cheeky laugh.

Her: Ok... see you around.

Me: Yeah.

I started walking again, I went to the elevator. My office was on the third floor while the boardroom was on the 6th floor. I walked to the lift, as it closed someone stopped it with his foot. I looked up & he was standing right there.

Him: Running away?

Me: Oliver!

He got in the lift then directed it to his floor which was the top floor.

Him: I think you & I need to talk, don't you think so too?

Me: I have to get back to work Oliver.

He pushed me against the walls of the elevator.

Him: Don't test me Tits!

He whispered in my ear softly but seductively.

He slightly moved the weave that was getting on my face then trailed his hand on my face making me inhale sharply.

Him: Don't even try it!

Just then the door opened. He walked out grabbing my hand. We walked inside his office. His P.A wasn't on her usual desk as always so we just walked inside the office. The office was just huge, maybe 3 times mine. The style was on point. He locked the door as soon as we got inside.

Him: What happened?

Me: With what?

Him: You shutting me out.

I couldn't tell him Miyoba was my sister, I didn't want to embarrass myself. He probably would start thinking of me as a whore.

Him: Talk to me babe.

Me: I... I'm not a home wrecker.

Him: You are not. My supposedly wife doesn't want this, she doesn't even like me, I also don't.

Me: You don't understand.

Him: Then make me... make me understand.

Me: I don't know how to.

He tilted my head so I look at him.

Him: I love you.

Me: You should stop.

Him: My heart is refusing. These past weeks my heart has been refusing to stop loving you.

Me: We can't be together.

Him: Until you give me a reason why, & don't give me the _'you are married'_ excuse because I have explained my situation to you... then we are going to be together.

Me: What if one day you start loving her? You can't just disobey your parents. You know how parents are... they are going to force you to make things work with her... then what about me? Where will I be? I'm just going to be _'the other woman.'_

Him: I won't start loving her, not today, nor tomorrow nor any other day for that matter... & nobody is going to force me to do anything.

Me: These are your parents we are talking about!

Him: I know & I don't give a fuck either way... I told her I love someone else & that person is you... we will deal with everything together.

Me: I know how arranged marriages work... it starts off with you hating each other, then ends with you falling for each other.

Him: That's how they work, but not with me... it's not going to be like that with me.

He grabbed me by my waist then kissed me hard. His hands quickly unbuttoned my shirt, then took it off. He unhooked my bra stepping away from me.

Him: I love you, & you are mine Tits... I'm not going to lose you like this.

He came closer then kissed me again. I helped him take off his clothes on the upper body. He raised my skirt so it was on my waist. He picked me up so I wrap my legs around his waist. He then walked with me to the wall & pressed my body against the wall as he tore my panties.

Me: Condom?

Him: Too late.

He said as he was slowly sliding his meat in, making me feel every inch of him. My toes curled as he tapped me like a mad man. He was going harder & deeper making me mourn out loud. His dick was roughly hitting my pussy walls making me dig my nails in his skin.

He groaned as he held my waist tightly then walked with me to his desk. He pushed a few things on the floor before making me sit there. He had my legs on his shoulders as he roughly pounded me.

* * *

I fixed my skirt as I walked out of his office after a while. Thank God his P.A was still not in, so I just got in the lift. He was standing by his door leaning on his door frame as I got inside the elevator. When doors closed I took a deep breath. I didn't regret but I felt guilty. Walking out of the lift I felt like everyone knew what I had just done.

Quickly I walked inside my office. As soon as I got inside, I could finally breathe but soon stopped when Cristobel showed up.

Me: Cristobel?

Her: Hey, I couldn't wait to see you.

Me: I thought we were meeting after work?

Her: Yeah but I couldn't wait.

Me: Ok. What's going on?

Her: Duncan was found dead this morning.

### SCARLET

Today the shop was very busy but that didn't stop my mind from slipping into last night's events. I didn't even know how I felt about what happened. His kisses left my brain dead. Last night when I looked at my lips on the mirror they were a bit swollen & I could still smell him on me.

He didn't show up in the morning, rather there was a car waiting for me. The car he had prepared for me, it's like now I had a chauffeur. It felt a bit weird not seeing him because I was getting used to him.

The customer I was helping finally left. I looked down on my counter & the flowers were still there. The note was also there. I took it out.

"Is what happened worth it Carl or it's just a mistake?"

For the first time I actually didn't have answers.

# CHAPTER 10

## CLEANSING RITUAL

### TITANIA

Me: What?

Her: Duncan Roads was found dead this morning, due to an overdose of drugs.

I could hear what she was saying but I was failing to understand.

Me: Drugs?

Her: Yes... apparently he overdosed drugs.

Me: Duncan wasn't an abuser of drugs.

Her: Turns out otherwise.

Me: Unbelievable!

Her: Yeah... Look I just wanted to tell you this, don't come after work.

Me: Ok.

Her: Bye.

I took a deep breath placing the phone down. I still couldn't believe Duncan was a drug addict. It all seemed impossible in my mind. I knew Duncan could be anything but not a drug user. I tried to get back to work but it was just hard. I finally took it upon myself to call his mother. His mother & I, we really are not that close, not that she hates me or anything, just that we never really had that close relation. She picked up her phone after a while.

Her: Hello?

Me: Hello.

Her: Who is this?

Me: It's Titania, Mrs. Roads.

She was silent for a while.

Her: Tits, how are you?

I couldn't say I'm fine, this is her son who just passed away.

Me: I just heard.

Her: I'm so sorry dearie... I know it must be hard on you.

Me: It is.

Her: Duncan's friend tells me you guys were separating.

Me: Duncan was very abusive Mrs. Roads.

Her: He told me, I'm sorry you had to go through all that. Duncan was never like that, I wonder what went wrong.

Me: I know.

Her: I will see you at the funeral.

Me: See you.

Her: Bye.

I then hung up. That went well. I thought she was going to put me through a lot. I rubbed my face, it all seemed real, and it was sinking now. He's dead.

At noon mum texted me the restaurant she was at. Before driving there I passed by the pharmacy to buy morning after. I just couldn't afford kids now, or pregnancy for that matter. Mum waved at me as soon as I got inside. I walked up to her & sat down.

Her: Hey, I have already ordered.

Me: Ok, how are you?

Her: Better, I want us to go see Miyoba after this so we better be quick.

Me: Okay.

Her: your father told me about your new position at work.

Me: It feels good.

Her: That's great.

Me: Duncan passed on, he was found dead this morning.

Her: He's dead?

Me: Yes.

Her: Good eradication!

I looked at her.

Her: Don't look at me like that! This man was abusing you. He deserves whatever God is throwing at him! I hope he's burning in hell.

I looked around then back at her. I couldn't hold it anymore, I just laughed. She joined me as the waiter placed the food on the table.

Her: I'm glad you came back.

Me: So am I... but I'm forced to attend his funeral.

Her: I will come with you for support.

Me: Thank you so much.

Her: It's ok. Miyoba is engaged.

Me: Oh.

Her: Yes but you know your sister. She's refusing this marriage & she's just angering the ancestors.

Me: She doesn't want the marriage?

Her: No, she's being stubborn. She's not the one who's supposed to be running Friendly no wonder she got in an accident.

Me: What do you mean? She worked so hard to finally be where she is.

Her: Yes but she's not the rightful leader.

Me: That's not fair, so who's the rightful leader then?

Her: We don't know yet.

Me: She won't accept that.

Her: Then bad things will keep on happening to her.

Me: This is not fair.

Her: Life has never been fair Titania.

No wonder she accused me of being here for Friendly, she's probably scared. I know my sister enough that she's going to fight with everything she's got, she won't just give it up just like that. After eating we went to see her at the hospital. She was still in the same condition but we still had hope that she will wake up. As I said, my sister is a fighter. She won't just give up.

After seeing her, mum went to the car, I just wanted some personal time with her but that wasn't the reason. I had received a text from a guy Anthony that he was in the hospital. I texted him back that he should come at her ward. After a while some dude was walking towards me, he wasn't bad.

Him: Hello Ma'am I'm Anthony.

Me: Hi, I will wait here as you talk to her.

Him: Thank you so much.

He got inside. I stood by the door watching him. He talked holding her hand. He looked really hurt to see her lying there lifeless that after a while he was wiping his tears. Moments later he finally walked out.

Him: Thank you for letting me see her.

Me: You are welcome.

I smiled then walked away.

### MIYOBA

I could hear the voice pretty well, but I couldn't really make out what the voice was saying. After a while I heard sobs, I just wanted to open my eyes but it felt like my body was tied to something & that thing just wasn't letting me go. No matter how much I tried fighting, I still felt a heavy weight on me.

### SCARLET

After work I got in the cab, the car was already waiting for me at the usual spot Quinton waits for me at. I sat at the back, the driver started driving. We didn't exchange any words & I was cool with it, besides that, he seemed business like. He dropped me at the gate. Stepping inside the house, I had this strange feeling & it made my heart beat fast. I looked around & I couldn't see anyone but then I heard voices in my mother's room. I placed my bag on the sofa then walked inside my mother's bedroom. The first thing that I saw was Michelle who was lying on the bed.

Me: What's going on?

I asked with a shaky voice.

I looked around & Twanda was sitting on the floor at the corner while mum sat on the bed & Jezabella was up on her feet.

Mum: Michelle has a fever.

Me: What?

Mum: The doctors see nothing wrong with her.

Me: What do you mean?

Jezabella: They can't find anything, this is not something that these doctors can find! You need to consult the ancestors Gloria.

Mum: I'm not going to take my child to a witch doctor!

Jezabella: What if things get worse?

Mum: God is watching over my child.

Jezabella: Don't say I didn't tell you.

I walked up to Michelle, her temperature was just high. I really don't understand why this was happening to my sister.

Me: Mummy call Uncle Dee.

Mum: I won't do such Scarlet! Neither will you!

Me: I'm calling him! I'm not going to seat here & watch my sister die.

Mum: She's not dying. This is a storm & we will overcome it!

Me: So what do we do in the mean time?

Mum: We pray.

I laughed then walked out. I took my bag then walked inside my room. As soon as I got inside I took my phone out so to call Uncle Dee but my airtime just couldn't let me. I walked out to go buy airtime. I bought the airtime then finally called Uncle Dee.

Him: Scarlet!

Me: Uncle. Michelle is sick again.

He kept quiet for a while before heaving a sigh.

Him: We need to perform a cleansing ritual.

Me: For her?

Him: For the whole family. You see Scarlet, what I told your mother was not something that I made up. I was also informed. They are not saying your mother committed adultery or something like that but they believe they must have been a confusion. The ancestors were consulted, they are being provoked because there is someone who is not ours in our midst.

Me: And that person is between me, Twanda & Michelle?

Him: Surprisingly yes.

Me: Can it be Michelle?

Him: No one knows. I will come there this weekend then I will perform that ritual for Michelle not to always be the target. But please don't worry yourself too much, she won't die. This is not meant to kill anyone but those who happen to die will be the sidelines. I'm sure with time everything will come clear.

Me: Can it happen sooner, Michelle's has a fever.

Him: She will be fine. Don't worry yourselves much.

Me: Ok.

Him: Bye.

Me: Bye.

He then hung up, I'm not a fan of spiritual things or church but right now I just didn't care, all I wanted was my sister to get better. I didn't go home immediately, I walked to Kat's house. We haven't been seeing each other a lot lately due to my job I guess. Getting inside the yard I was welcomed by loud music.

I knocked on the door but nobody opened, I don't think anyone even heard me. The music was just too loud. I opened the door & got in. Katongo was in the sitting room busy on a laptop. I walked over to the radio then switched it off. That was when he finally looked at me.

Him: Carl? What's up?

Me: Michelle's sickness has started again.

Him: Fuck!

Me: Yeah.

Him: Don't worry, I'm sure she will be fine.

Me: I hope so.

Him: I think you need juice.

He walked to the kitchen, I looked at what he was doing on the laptop. It seemed like he was applying for a job.

Me: Looking for a job?

I screamed. He came back holding two glasses of juice. He handed one to me.

Him: Yeah... I need to be serious with my life.

Me: Now you are talking sense.

Him: Besides Michelle what's up?

Me: I got sponsorship for school.

Him: You are lying!

Me: I'm serious. Like next year I'll be in school.

Him: I'm happy for you.

Me: Thanks.

Him: I heard you have found yourself a chauffeur.

Me: News travel fast.

Him: You know how it is.

Me: It's just a friend.

Him: The same friend who rescued you that time with Vlad?

Me: Yes.

Him: I never knew you love them fancy.

Me: What's that supposed to mean? I don't like him not even for a second... he's forever irritating... Just that he's on the good side with mum.

Him: If you don't like him then why hang out with him?

Me: Its mum... after what happened at the bar... She doesn't want to take chances.

Him: So if it wasn't for your mum?

Me: I wouldn't be hanging out with him.

He laughed.

Him: I never knew!

Me: What?

Him: I saw you guys kiss & hug. Then you ran away.

I looked at him.

Me: Are you spying on me?

Him: No... I had come to see you actually, I wanted to ask about the job hunting thing then I saw you guys kiss.

Me: It meant nothing.

Him: Stop being in denial... what are you scared of? Getting hurt?

Me: I'm not in denial & I'm not scared. I just don't-...

Him: You just don't what? Don't want a relationship?

Me: I don't want anything.

Him: You see? You are scared of relationships.

Me: Can you stop it?

Him: I'm just looking out for you.

Me: I'm going home.

Him: Wait... let me escort you.

We walked out together. He escorted me half way.

Him: Do you like him?

Me: Like who?

Him: Him. White guy.

Me: No. And he's not white!

Him: Half breed?

Me: Yeah.

Him: Ok...see you around.

The rest of the way home I was just locked up in my thoughts. When I got home mum & Twanda were eating, or trying to.

Mum: And you are back.

Me: Yeah... I'm going to sleep.

Mum: Scarlet!

I turned & looked at her.

Mum: I'm not trying to kill my child.

Me: I didn't say that.

Mum: Not in so many words... you did. I'm not just sitting there watching your sister die.

I kept quiet, but what I really wanted to say was _'so what are you doing?'_

Mum: Michelle is my child, I would never just sit & watch her die. She's my nine months! I love her.

Me: I know. I'm sorry.

Mum: You can go.

I walked to my room. I wasn't feeling hungry, all I wanted was to sleep.

### TITANIA

Sunday morning I was packing my clothes. I wasn't going to stay long, I had finally accepted that my future is here. After packing my bags I walked out to my mum's car which was outside, she was going with me & I couldn't thank her enough.

Her: Ready?

Me: Ready.

She started the car then drove off.

Her: Yesterday I tried to call you but your phone was unreachable.

Me: Yeah... I was working on a magazine that's supposed to be released on Monday.

That was a pure lie, I wasn't reachable because I spent the whole day with Oliver. He came early morning & forced me to go out with him. He drove around the whole day, stopping here & there at the most beautiful places. It wasn't much but it was fun & I enjoyed myself. I didn't feel the way I felt when I found out that Miyo is the wife to be because after mum told me that Miyo doesn't want the marriage I felt a bit better. I told him that I'm attending a funeral but I left out the part of my husband's funeral. After the way I reacted when I found out he was engaged, I'm sure he would do the same. Somehow I was glad that Duncan actually died, I'm now finally single officially.

Settling in the plane I started feeling somehow different. I was going back to the place which was a hell hole to me, where I shed most of my tears. Mum squeezed my hand, I was glad I had her support. I closed my eyes as the plane took off. This was it!

After a while I had calmed down & mum & I were going through a magazine. We stopped when we came across Miyoba, I have gotten used to seeing my sister in magazines. She's one of the people who are just all out there. There was an article beneath her photo.

"It was after a blast fashion show that took us by surprise that our beauty goddess, Miyoba Hichilema, was involved in a fatal accident. The beauty goddess was believed to have been on her way to the airport with her friend, Jeffery Mukelabai, heading to Hawaii. The 24 year old Miyoba was rushed to the hospital but unfortunately her friend did not seem to have made it. Not only did Jeffery Mukelabai pass away but also Pretty Mangolwa, Pearl Dalitso & lastly Johnson Mundia. The other three people were in a bus carrying 16 people that Miyoba hit head on with her car. Two people are believed to be still in intensive care together with Miyoba but the rest have been discharged without permanent damage...."

Mum closed the magazine not willing to read further more. She wiped her tears.

Me: It will be alright Mum.

Her: Why is God punishing me like this?

Me: Mum please don't do this to yourself.

Just then an air hostess came.

Her: Is everything ok?

Me: Yes thank you but can we please have water.

Her: Coming right up.

She came back holding a glass of water. I took it then gave it to mum who only drank half.

Me: Thank you.

I said giving the glass back.

Me: Mum please calm down.

Her: I know she thinks I hate her.

Me: You know that's not true.

Her: I know Tits, the way she looks at me... I can see it in her eyes... she thinks I hate her but I don't... I love her so much... she's my child no matter what... she's my daughter... when she had to stay with Claudia I had no choice.

Me: Why did you send her there?

Her: I was forced to. I didn't want to, your father & I didn't want to but we couldn't keep her. I should have just kept her, regardless of the situation.

Me: What situation?

### SCARLET

I had Michelle in my room, I was holding her tightly against my chest. Uncle Dee was just done with the cleansing. Mum was against it but this time around Uncle Dee stood his ground. Traditionally mum should have been married to Uncle Dee after my father passed on but mum wasn't interested, she refused & even if she had agreed I wasn't going to let it.

Uncle Dee said Michelle would be the old Michelle by tomorrow, it's just a matter of time. Her temperature had decreased & she was sleeping. I held her, brushing her back. As I was sitting on my bed I was looking at myself on the mirror. Amongst everyone in our family I'm the only one with long curly hair. Mum said God blessed me with nutritious hair roots. It used to be funny then but now I realize I'm the only one with such hair. My hair isn't exactly black, but it's a bit brownish... Just like Twanda's.

I brushed my mind off the matter, I guess I was thinking too much on the matter Uncle Dee talked about.

TO BE CONTINUED!

# OTHER BOOKS BY AUTHOR

  * Sister's Betrayal

  * Major Chicken Diseases, Prevention, & Cure

  * How to Smoke Poultry

  * How to Produce Your Own Chicken Feeds

  * A Cry for Love

  * How to Last in Bed

  * African Lover's Guide

  * Business Analysis for Start-ups

  * COMING SOON

  * Entanglements

Did you love this book? Then you should also read Entanglements.

# Entanglements Book Preview

Have you ever wanted something so bad that you can't just wait till you have it? But if you chase it too hard then you might chase it away? Or you might catch something you didn't wish for? Maybe she was too hungry for success and ended up with the horror of her life.

Tried, tested, bruised, broken, battered, and molested. The truth is, she had nothing to her name and nobody on her side. She was tired! Tired of life, tired of poverty and all she wanted was to go on for a day without worrying about her next meal, and so the journey to her nightmare begun.

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