INFORMATION (READ!!!!)

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The Final Episodes would be out by next week Friday. I Know you can't wait, but just some days away (8.02.2013)

It isn't over yet. i would keep you updated with the new series which would hit you soon, and also, i would keep you informed on my Novel.

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Cheers!

Tomi Adesina

COURT ROOM (EPISODE 24)

PBMH (2)-EPISODE 24 (COURTROOM)

EPISODE 24

                The Court Clerk ran through the proceedings. “Resuming the case from Wednesday 25^th April, 2012, Tunji Davis versus Chidi Obi for Fraudulent Acts.” He started. I stared at Mr. Davis who seemed relaxed in his seat. Jumoke Bankole came to court with her Father. Subomi Bankole was all smiles. The Jury was seated. Dora, Kolapo, Dare and Jacob were also seated.

                Judge Fatoye adjusted his glasses and cleared his throat. “This case was adjourned because the alleged witness of Ms. Darlene Williams didn’t show up in court last week. So, the case resumes with Ms. Williams. Over to you, Ms. Williams.”

                As I stood up, the Court door flung open. I turned round to see Sir Kunle Williams in court. “Dad.” I whispered, with a smile. He winked back and took his seat. I took a deep breath and faced the judge. “Your Honour, I would love to apologize to this honorable court for not being able to present my witness at the case last week. This was due to circumstances beyond my control. To that effect, I have prepared a fresh file and submitted to your office, Please accept my apologies.”

                                “Enough of the apologies, you little liar! Just end the sham here!” Subomi Bankole shouted.

                Judge Fatoye cleared his throat. “There would be order in my court, Mr. Bankole.”

                                “I am sorry, your Honour. I just can’t stand this little girl deceive the Nation.”

                Judge Fatoye hit the deck. “That’s your Final warning, Mr. Bankole. No slandering!”

                A wry smile lurked around my lips. “I apologize to my learned colleague, Mr. Bankole. I promise to put an end to the ‘sham’ now.” I said and swayed in confidence around the court room. “Last week, I told this court that Mr. Davis had bought the Land from Mr. Sameer Ali, the son of the Late Sheik Ali, and I am still standing by that.”

                There were murmurings around the court. “Everything would be revealed in due time.” I said, as I continued. “There are legit documents belonging to Mr. Davis showing that he is the sole owner of the land as they were signed duly by Sameer Ali.

                                “Objection, your honour!” Subomi said, as he sprang to his feet.

                Judge Fatoye declined his request. I smiled and continued. “On that ground, I would say I smell Forgery around the corner from Chidi Obi’s camp.”

                                “Objection, you honour!” Subomi interrupted.

                Judge Fatoye’s patience was growing lean. “Mr. Bankole, please contain yourself.”

                I smiled confidently. “Sameer Ali couldn’t show up in court last week, but today, I present to you the Witness, Mr. Sameer Ali.”

                Everyone watched the door carefully for Sameer Ali to show up. I stared at it patiently. My patience was soon rewarded as two Policemen flung the door open and SAMEER ALI walked in.

                                “IMPOSSIBLE!” Chidi Obi shouted. “I just spoke to Akume and he said you were with them.” Chidi Obi tried to rush at Sameer who made a grand walk up the aisle to the dock. Chidi Obi was restrained by Policemen.

                I smiled triumphantly. Subomi scratched his head. GAME UP!

                                “This is Sameer Ali, son of Sheik Ali.” I said, passing Sameer’s documents to the Court Attendant.

                Judge Fatoye nodded. “Now we have a case. Mr. Ali, could you tell this court the reason for your absence last week?”

                                “Thank you, your Honour. Last week Wednesday, I went for my early morning walk, but I was abducted by two goons from Mr. Obi so that I won’t be present in court.”

                The Judge stared at him. “How are you sure that they were from Mr. Obi?”

                                “Mr. Obi showed up himself at the place where I was kidnapped.”          

                Judge Fatoye nodded. “Tell us all you know about the Land case.”

                                “My late father instructed that on his passing away I sell the land to his good friend, Mr. Davis. After my father passed, Mr. Davis came with Mr. Obi to see me about the land. I sold it off to Mr. Davis in the presence of Mr. Obi at Dubai. Later in the evening, Mr. Obi came to me asking me to sell the same land to him, I explained to him that I had already sold it to his friend before his very eyes, but he begged that I retract it. I refused.” Sameer paused to drink some water. “The next morning, I noticed that the duplicate of the land deeds was missing from my safe, it was evident that Mr. Obi took them. I believe he must be parading this court with it as his own. I never sold any land to Mr. Chidi Obi.”

                The Judge sighed. “But the documents also look authentic?”

                Sameer nodded. “Yes, your honour. There’s a blue seal on the document, because he was able to imprint it from the duplicate, but there’s no signature on it, and that’s the main reason why I was abducted. But I can assure you that I have still not signed the documents.”

                Chidi Obi screamed. “He is lying. He is lying.” He yelled.

                                “Mr. Obi, last warning, or you are out of this place.” Judge Fatoye warned.

                Judge Fatoye looked over towards me. “Ms. Williams?”

                                “I would love to call Mr. Chidi Obi to the dock your honour.”

                Chidi Obi took his seat. “I AM NOT GUILTY.” He shouted

                I nodded with a smile. “Mr. Obi, you have been accused by Mr. Ali for Kidnapping him and Fraudulent Acts. It might please you to know that your two goons- Akume and Obaro have confessed to the Kidnapping and I have their statements here.” I said, handing it over to the Court Attendant.

                                “I…I don’t know those names.” He said, fidgeting.

                  I smiled. “Of course…you do, Mr. Obi. Anyway, I would love to know the reason why you tried to rob your friend, Mr. Davis?”

                                “I said I am INNOCENT!” He shouted.

                                “Of course you are not!” Caro said, as she flung the court door open.

                Mr. Obi sank in his seat. “You too?” he shouted.

                                “Who are you?” Judge Fatoye asked.

                Caro straightened up. “My name is Caroline James, and I am a Nurse by profession, your Honour.”

                                “And what do you have connected to this case?” he probed.

                She sighed. “I come here as a Witness for the prosecution against Mr. Chidi Obi.”

                                “Please register as a Witness and come over to the dock.”

                Caro immediately obliged and walked over to the dock. She went through the swearing formalities and it was time for examination.

                                “Tell this Court how you are connected to the case, Ms. James.” I started.

                She took a deep breath. “I am Caroline James; I was employed by Chidi Obi to administer drugs that would make Sameer Ali lose his memory during the time of his kidnap. I did as instructed, but I always administered an anti-dote because I couldn’t bring myself to reducing Sameer Ali to a vegetable. I have with me statements from Chidi Obi’s credit cards which I used to buy the drugs and doses that I administered.” She said, and the court attendant collected them from her.

                Chidi Obi was now sweating. He had been provided with a bottle of cold water.

                                “That would be all from me, your Honour.” I said.

                Judge Fatoye took a deep breath. “Mr. Chidi Obi to the dock, please.”

                                “With all the charges counted against you and evidences laid down, do you claim to be INNOCENT or are you GUILTY?” he asked.

                Chidi Obi took a deep sigh. “Your Honour, I have a family and two lovely grandkids.” He started.

                I smiled. VICTORY TIME, CHIDI OBI WAS CONCEEDING DEFEAT.

                                “Please have mercy on my good name, I am sorry.” He continued, shedding some tears that I didn’t know if they were real or fake. Old people shouldn’t cry, it sounds like chuckles!

                Judge Fatoye nodded. “ARE YOU GUILTY OR INNOCENT?”

                                “Guilty as charged.” He said, with his head down. The court roared in victory. And the Clerk immediately restored order.

                Judge Fatoye looked up. “We would have a brief Adjournment for just thirty minutes, after which I shall pass my verdict.” He said, and walked in.

                The Court remained silent as the Jury clustered for their verdict and we waited anxiously for Judge Fatoye’s return.

                The Appointed time soon came. “Before I pass my final verdict, have you anything to say, Counsels?”

                                “I am satisfied, your Honour,” I said, with a radiant smile.

                He looked at Subomi. Subomi Bankole struggled up to his feet. “Since my client…erm…has pleaded guilty…erm…I plead for minimal sentence for him, taking into consideration that he is a family man, with grandkids.”

                Judge Fatoye straightened up. “The society has become ridiculous thanks to people like Mr. Chidi Obi making use of dubious means to have whatever they want. This has got to stop; I want to hail the character and determination of the young and brilliant Ms. Darlene Williams, who took the pain to find her witness against all odds. This is something worthy of emulation. Our country needs more people like you.”

                I bowed courteously.

                Judge Fatoye cleared his throat. “This is my verdict. To Akume and Obaro, and other goons of Mr. Chidi Obi, they are to appear in court at a later date. Ms. Caroline James is also to be arraigned in court at a later date; all are accomplices of Mr. Chidi Obi and would be dealt with appropriately. Surprisingly, at the break, Mr. Obi sent in the name of Mr. Femi Ade-Cole as his close accomplice, an arrest warrant should be issued for him and he would be tried accordingly.” He said.

He took a deep breath. “Mr. Chidi Obi has been charged with Kidnapping and Fraudulent Acts, HE IS FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED and is hereby sentenced to 50 years imprisonment, not subject to trials. This is my Judgment!”

                “May the Court please rise.”

We all waited the exit of Judge Fatoye. Philip saw Caro out of the courtroom. The court erupted in celebrations as soon as Judge Fatoye left.

                “Dad!” I said as I hugged him.

He was full of smiles. “Congratulations, Darlene. Thanks for sparing our family’s blushes.” He said, as we laughed.

A policeman man handcuffed Chidi Obi and moved him along. Chidi Obi stopped when he got to us. He saw Dora. “Sandra Jite, right?” he asked.

                “No, it’s Dora Williams.” She replied, with a smile.

Chidi Obi looked stunned. “What? Oh no…it was you who did her coming-out recently, right? You fooled me.”

Dora nodded. “Yes, you wanted to make a fool of my family, so we found out everything and here you are Old man.”

Chidi Obi sighed and the Policemen escorted him out. We all laughed.

I hugged Dora. “Thanks Sis. You are the best.”

Toni came rushing. “Hi darling…” she shouted. We hugged tightly. “I am so proud of you, the Press is massive outside, and they are waiting for you.”

                “Let them wait.” I replied, with a smile.

Kolapo came over. “Hi Darlene, Congratulations. You did it.”

                “We all did. I am so proud of you. Thanks a lot.” I said, hugging him.

I turned around to see Dare. “Hey…Thanks, Dare.”

 He smiled. “I am so proud of you, Darlene.” he said, as we hugged. “And I am sorry that I am not the man you love.” He whispered.

I smiled. “Oh well…and still I didn’t get my heartbreak from you.” I replied, with a smile.

                “The Press really just wants to have a picture of you, right now.” He said, with a smile.

I nodded. “I know, but they would wait to see to smile a little more.” I replied and walked over to Jacob who was sitting by the window. “Hi wedding boy.” I said, trying to be funny.

                “Really, Darlene?” he gave a questioning look with his eyebrow raised.

I nudged him in the waist. “Have a sense of humour.”

                “Darlene, I am so proud of you.” he started. I was all smiles. Jake never had to say much to tickle me. “I just wished you knew how much I love you.” my eyes lit up with excitement. “I mean, right now.” He said, and stuck his tongue out.

I hit him on his shoulder. “You are so mean.”

                “Yet…you just love me, don’t you?” he said, smiling.

I felt a light tap on my shoulder. I turned round to see Subomi Bankole. “Congratulations, Ms. Williams, I guess I couldn’t get another one over a Williams.”

                “If my Dad lost to you based on your lies, I would like that case revisited, you never won.” I said, standing up to him.

He nodded. “Of course, I can’t say much right now. But Congratulations, all the same.” He said and walked away.

Jake nudged me. “Darlene, you are mean.”        

               

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                                “Ms. Williams…look over here. Ms. Williams, How did you mastermind the finding of your witness? Are you going to Charge Subomi Bankole too as an Accomplice?”

                Dad suddenly halted and whispered to me. “Try to answer the press for once. You deserve it.”

                I smiled and stared at them. “Three questions only.”

                                “My name is Peju Adeoye from BABSS WORLDWIDE… Ms. Williams, how do you want to describe your achievement? Against all odds you have successfully locked up one of the city’s biggest tyrant.”

                I nodded. “ALL THANKS TO GOD.”

                                “I am Gbenro Adejare. Ms. Williams, it is a big shock to the city that you beat Subomi Bankole, is this revenge for your Father’s losing to Subomi years ago?”

                I sighed. “Erm…when the facts are right and the truth is obvious, it is not a matter of revenge, it is a matter of Justice.”

                                “Ms. Williams, Me!!! Ms…Williams…Over here….Please Ms. Williams”

                I turned round to see Bobby from the BRT bus. “Hey Bobby.” I said with a smile.

                                “Congratulations.” He said. “Would you take my question?”

                I nodded. “Most definitely.”

                                “My name is Bobby, and for my school term paper on- ‘The Fall of Chidi Obi - a modern day tyrant’, Can I submit it now?” he asked, with a sly smile.

                I nodded with tears in my eyes. I had told Bobby to submit after the Case just in case I didn’t win, so that his paper won’t seem ridiculous. Journalists immediately turned to Bobby requesting for his piece. It was obvious that Bobby was on his way to being popular. Some journalists murmured about how Bobby wasted their opportunity to ask a ‘killer question’. Do they ever get tired?

                I walked away from the crowd to the Car where Dad was waiting. “Thanks Dad.”

                                “For what?” he asked.

                I smiled. “I always wanted to see you at something important to me.”

                                “Come here.” He said, and hugged me. “I am so sorry, and for the record, I am proud of you.”

                I looked up. “Dad, do you forgive me for Mom’s death?” I asked. Mom had died while running to attend to me when she heard me scream. I had always felt responsible for it ever since I knew the story.

                Dad sighed. “I have never held you responsible, Darlene Williams.” He said. “I am sorry.” He said, and gave me a kiss on the forehead. “Can we be friends again?” he asked.

                                “Were we ever friends?” I asked with a grin.

                He ruffled my hair. “You little rascal!” he smiled. “Let’s go, the others are waiting.”

               

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                                “Sameer would be on the next flight to Dubai. I have arranged for Protection for him on his way there.” Dad said as he drove.

                I smiled. “Thanks Dad.”

                                “It’s nothing. It’s something I should do for you.”

                I nodded. “Dad, you know, for the first time in my life, I am glad we are doing something together.”

                                “Come off it, Williams. Now, I have a special proposal for you. Are you going to join my Firm?”

                I scoffed. “Really? NO!” I laughed, mockingly.

                                “Oh come on Darlene, it’s a rare opportunity. It won’t affect your salary or your monthly stipends as my daughter. I won’t have a say on your contract fees.”

                I rolled my eyes. “NOOOOOOOO…..”

                                “Darlene, don’t be a mean child. You can still live in my house till you get married, eat my food, and drive any car you want, since you can drive. Use my credit card if you wish, just work for me.”

                I stuck out my tongue. “I didn’t need your credit card before, why would I now?”

                                “Are you turning down your old man?” he asked, making a sad face.

                I nodded. “I want to work as a contract lawyer, not tied to anyone.”

                He sighed. “I understand, anyway, I would hire you frequently. I would make you my employee by all means.” He said, smiling.

                                “I want you to close your eyes.” Dad said, as we walked in. I obliged and then he covered them with his eyes. “Ta-da!!!!!!” he said, and opened it.

                There was a victory party in the house. “CONGRATULATIONS!” Everyone shouted.

                                “Thank you everyone. This victory is not mine, but ours. I hope we have a nice time together. Cheers everyone.” I said, raising my glass.

                I walked away from the Party as my friends seemed to be having more fun than myself. I took my seat at the Pool, my usual spot. I had time to reflect on my defeat where I almost drowned myself in the same pool. I took a deep breath and smiled. I felt fulfilled.

                                “Should you be alone?” Jake asked.

                I turned round and smiled. “Come.”

                He joined me by the pool. “Darlene, I am so happy for you.” he said, with a smile.

                I placed my head on his shoulder. I would take advantage of my last moments with the man I love before he got married. “I missed you, Jake. I am so sorry.” I said.

                                “It’s alright. It was my fault. I guess I babied you too much.” He said, giving me a kiss on the forehead.

                I stayed in his arms until it was night. We talked about our childhood and laughed about memories.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                                                                                                                A week after the court case

I joined Jake to carry a glass table into the living room.

                                “Be careful.” He said as we dropped the table in the centre. “I think this would look good here.”

                I nodded. “And the Plasma would look good right there.” I said, pointing at the wall. “Or not?”

                Jake shrugged. “I don’t know. This place would be temporary though, probably a year after the wedding, we would move into my own designed house.”

                                “Is Dora aware of this place? I get the feeling I am playing her role here. You should be doing this with her.”

                He shrugged. “She doesn’t know. It should be a surprise.”

                                “But, couples usually pick out their things together, I even picked the sheets for the bed and kitchen wares, I don’t feel right about it. I don’t want to hurt her.”

                Jake sighed. “Come on Darlene, don’t be such a pain. I am here with you, simple. Why are you so stressed?”

                                “I won’t feel good if my man picked out our house things with another woman.”

                He nodded. “Sorry. Tell your man that. I do what I please.” He said, and left to fetch the wallpapers.

                Jake had bought a Porsche Bungalow on the Banana Island, it cost him a lot, but it is a beautiful flat. We had chosen wallpapers to decorate the Flat. Jake had returned his BMW to his father’s house and bought himself a Car from his Paycheck. He was really bent on being ‘his own man’.

                                “Darlene…” he called from outside.

                I joined him as we brought in the rest of the house furniture. The best part of our shopping was helping him pick out some Neck Ties, I had always wanted to do that forever. My Jake was going to wear a Suit.

                Jake left for the Bedroom. “This is beautiful.”

                I nodded in agreement. The Bedroom had a verandah. It exposed one to the beautiful trees. I took a deep breath and felt the rush of air from the sea breeze. “This is beautiful.” Jake stood behind me. At that moment, I was tempted to tell him that he shouldn’t marry Dora, but I couldn’t stop him.

                                “Erm…I want to check the backyard. There’s a pool and a space for a grill there. Wanna come?” he asked pulling my hand.

                I smiled. “You leave me no choice.” I said, and followed him.

                The backyard looked spacious. The pool wasn’t as big as the one at Dad’s house but it was a decent size. There was a field for proper grilling. Jake’s house looked good. I only hoped that it would be a home with Dora.

               

               

               

PBMH 2 - EPISODE 23

PLEASE BREAK MY HEART (2)-EPISODE 23

EPISODE 23

                Chidi Obi’s Range Rover pulled up in front of ‘CHIDI TYRES WAREHOUSE.’ Philip and Kolapo hid around the fence far away from the security guards.

                                “This must be where they are keeping Sameer. Wise choice.” Philip said and sent a message to Darlene.

                Kolapo sighed. “So what do we do now?”

                                “We can’t take any action now; it’s like going into a death trap. I suggest we go back and come up with a plan on how to take down this warehouse.”

                Kolapo nodded. “I hope Sameer is fine.”

                                “We can find that out.”

                Kolapo and Philip waited for some minutes to see if anyone would come out of the warehouse, but no one did. “I suggest we take our leave now. We have to come up with a plan.” Philip whispered.

                                “Hey…bend down.” Kolapo said as the warehouse gate opened. Chidi Obi came out with Nurse Caro.

                Chidi Obi cleared his throat. “Caro, I am paying you to take care of the man, not to come up with suggestions. I don’t want him leaving for the hospital. It is as simple as that.”

                                “Boss, I understand. But, this man is gravely ill and could die at any time if he doesn’t get proper medical attention, that’s why I suggested that we take him to the hospital and watch him carefully.” She replied.

                Chidi Obi snarled angrily. “No hospital!” he hissed. “Now run along and get all that he needs for proper medical attention, I gave you my card, right? Use it well.” He instructed and returned into the warehouse.

                Caro hissed. “Foolish man.” She said and walked along the path.

                                “Let’s follow her.” Kolapo said and they walked slowly behind Caro until they got to the highway.

                Philip grabbed her. “Hey.”

                                “What do you want from me? I already said told the boss that I would go get him drugs.”

                Kolapo shook his head. “You are such a fool, aren’t you? Blurting out information like that, not knowing if we are the police. Anyway, get into the car.” He instructed.

                Philip grabbed her and put her into the car while Kolapo drove.

                                “My name is Philip, and we don’t intend to hurt you, but if you don’t cooperate with us, you may leave us no choice.”

                She nodded. “What do you want?”

                                “The Arab man, Sameer. Is he really sick like you told Chidi Obi?”

                She shook her head in disagreement. “No, I am trying to get him out of there.”

                                “Well…in that case, you have to help us. We also want to get Sameer out, so how do you think you can help us.”

                Kolapo stared at her from the mirror “You are safe. Talk.”

                                “I can give you the description of what the warehouse looks like on the inside and the room where they have Sameer guarded. There are about ten guards in all in the warehouse, so it might be difficult to take him out unnoticed.”

                Philip nodded. “Hmm…so, we have to prepare to kill if we have to, KP.”

                                “Of course man, we just have to draw up a proper plan. Hey, you are the nurse, right?” he asked. Caro nodded. “What drugs have you given to him?”

                She bowed her head. “They are meant to make him forget everything, but I also inject the antidote so that his memory isn’t faded. Sameer is aware.”

                                “Where are you going to get him drugs?”

                She raised her head. “It’s a Pharmacy not too far from here. Just take the right turn.” She said.

                Philip grabbed her phone and dialed his number on it. “We would keep in touch with you on our plans, we promise not to hurt your old father, just cooperate with us.”

                                “Please don’t tell my father about this job, please.” She begged.

                Kolapo pulled up some meters away from the Pharmacy. “Thank you, Caro. Don’t call if anything comes up, just send a message.” He said. She nodded and left.

                KP stared at Philip. “How did you know about her father?”

                                “I just took a wild guess.” He said, grinning.

                KP grinned and drove off.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                                “So you found the Nurse that treats Sameer?” I asked as we ate breakfast.

                Philip nodded. “Yes, she would help us. The place is heavily guarded and it is a warehouse.”

                                “When can we strike?” Jake asked.

                Dare smiled. “The later the better.”

                                “I don’t follow.” I said.

                Dare sat up. “I suggest we move him out of there on Tuesday night, so that nothing is noticed before the court case. It would be a huge shock to Subomi and co.” he said with a smile. “Payback.”

                                “How do we deal with the guards?” Dora asked.

                Philip took a deep breath. “KP and I can use guns, and if anyone is ready to join us, we would kill if we have to.”

                                “Hey man, we don’t want blood on our hands. We are not cops like you.” Jake interrupted.

                I smiled. “Jake, why are you scared of killing all of a sudden? It’s not like you haven’t killed before.”

                                “I haven’t killed human beings.”

                Philip nodded. “It’s okay. I have a few friends in the police district there. I would talk to them to help us.”

                                “We would ensure that there’s no contact between Chidi Obi’s men and Chidi and if there would be, we would intercept it on their behalf, so that they don’t smell a thing.” Dare added.

                Jake clapped his hand. “Smart plan guys, now we have to watch over the warehouse. You never can tell.”

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                Jake pulled up fences away from the warehouse. “Here we are.”

                We were taking turns to watch the warehouse and it was Jake and I first. “Hmmm…hopefully we find things worthy.” I said as I adjusted by baseball hat.

                Jake smiled. “You look good in that hat.” He said, hitting it.

                I smiled. I knew I had to straighten things with Jake, so I took the lead. “Jake, why did I have to find out from Dora about your marriage? I mean we are very close, you should have told me.”

                He scoffed. “She’s your sister.” I nodded. “Are you happy for us?”

                I nodded. “Of course. Anything that makes you happy makes me happy.”  

                                “Thanks D.”

                I took a deep breath. “So when are you going to do the proposal, as in the official proposal?”

                                “Immediately after the court case, I would love to have a rehearsal with you first so that I could be sure of whatever I am going to say to her.”

                I nodded my head. “Just the environment perfect, I would love to see your proposal.”

                We stared at the gate waiting for any movements from the warehouse, but there seemed to none. There was silence in the car.

                                “Darlene, I got a job.” Jake said, breaking the silence.

                I stared at him. “What job?” I said, almost laughing.

                He smiled. “Someone hired me to draw up a plan for his building, so I am more like a contact architect.”

                I smiled, obviously bemused. “That’s fantastic.” I said, hugging him. “So how did you get the contract?”

                                “Well, Dora introduced me to the man, and the he had me do a few sketches on the spot, thankfully, I haven’t lost my touch, so it went well.”

I nodded. “So, for how long have you hidden this from me?” I asked.

                “It’s not been too long, I wanted to be sure that I was doing the job right, before telling you a thing. I have my first earned paycheck. I have another Job after this case is over too.”

I smiled. “Jacob, that’s good to know. Now, you are a salary earner.”     

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                Dare’s phone rang. “Hello Dad.”

                                “Where are you, Son?” he asked.

                Dare moved away from the window and took his seat. “I am on a holiday.”

                                “Holiday? Dare, how could you walk out on what you have labored to build because of a woman?”

                Dare sighed. “Darlene is not just any woman. Darlene Williams has been a pillar to the Firm, and it’s a shame that you allow Uncle Femi to influence you so much.”

                                “Don’t speak about your Uncle like that. He has the Firm’s best interest at heart; he works tirelessly to ensure that we attain a proper standard.” He said. “Thanks to the mess that Williams’ daughter made, we would have had our name smeared if not for your Uncle who issued a public statement in our defense.”

                Dare scoffed. “That’s enough, Father. You and Uncle Femi can go ahead and ruin the Firm, I am not coming back.”

                                “What do you mean by that, Dare? I won’t have you talk bad about my brother.”

                Dare hissed. “Father, Uncle Femi is the reason you divorced my mother, he is the reason you are in the shadows of Sir Kunle Williams, he is the reason why Darlene is out of the Firm and he is the reason why your Firm, would Crumble.” Dare said and hung up.

                Dora walked in. “You really gave it to your old man, Dare. Are things that bad?”

                                “Look Dora, it’s not a big deal. It’s something that I should have said to him a long time ago. Just bottled it up too long.” He replied and fetched himself a drink from the Fridge. “You care?”

                She shook her head. “No, thank you.” she replied as she took her seat.

                Dare and Dora refused to say a word to each other and then the silence was broken together. “Do you love…” they said, and laughed.

                                “You go first.” Dare said, laughing.

                Dora smiled. “Do you love Darlene?”

                Dare took a deep breath and smiled. “Yes, I do.”

                                “Define your feelings for her.” She said, smiling.

                Dare chuckled. “I really can’t explain it, all I know is that she made me better, and she definitely is the woman that makes me happy.”

                                “Happy? What if her happiness lies with someone else?” she asked.

                He nodded. “Then, I would give her up.”

                                “That easy? You won’t even fight for her?”

                He smiled. “I may be in love with her, but as long as she won’t be happy with me, what’s the essence of keeping her?”

                Dora looked at him carefully. “Really?”

                                “Yes, and that leads to my own question. Do you love Jacob?”

                Dora blinked. “I can’t discuss that with you.”

                Dare scoffed. “I just told you about my feelings for Darlene. Why won’t you say about yours?”

                                “It’s a bit complicated.”

                Dare adjusted in his chair. “Face it like a grown-up. If you love the guy, admit it. If not, leave him alone, and let him be with Darlene.”

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                Chidi Obi sank in his chair and dialed Femi Ade-Cole. “Femi, Sameer is sick.”

                                “You can’t take him to the hospital; you know what would happen, Chidi.”

                Chidi sighed. “Femi, but if he dies, he is of no use to us.”

                                “Hey, I don’t care what you do, but I must have my 40% on the land stake intact.”

                                “But he has to sign the documents before we can claim the property, for now, the property is in a serious contention, if he becomes worse, he might die.”

                Femi hissed. “CHIDI, force him to sign then, cut off his legs or pull out his eyes, make him SIGN!”

                                “Femi, when you talk like that, it scares me. Anyway, how is Williams’ daughter doing? Has she been to the court of recent?”

                Femi laughed. “That little loser is buried indoors, and from what I gathered from a few sources, she might be joining her Father outside the country soon. Probably after Wednesday, but she has conceded defeat.”

                                “How do you know?”

                Femi sighed. “I have my sources. Now finish your own end of the deal, and if you have to kill that Arab man, do it.”

                                “Bye Femi.” Chidi said, hanging up.

                Chidi rang Caro up. “Caro, how much effect have those injections had yet?”

                                “Sameer is about to forget everything, but he still has vague memories.”

                He sighed. “How many more days would he need before he is totally zapped out. I need us to make him sign; I believe that once he has forgotten all, he won’t hesitate to sign.”

                                “Erm…with the way that the drugs have been administered, he can only lose everything by Next week Saturday.”

                He snarled. “WHAT??? That’s too far, the case is on Wednesday. Can’t you increase the dosage?”

                                “No boss. If the dosage is increased, he would die. And our mission won’t be accomplished.”

                He sighed. “I would get back to you, but I would make sure that he signs before I return to Lagos on Monday.”

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                                                                                                                       MONDAY (10:30pm)

                       “You have to sign else we would wipe your whole family out.” Chidi Obi shouted. “And of course, you would still sign when we have killed them.”

                Sameer gasped for air. “I WON’T SIGN.”

                Akume hit him with a log of wood on the back.

                                “AARRGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Sameer let out a loud scream.

                Chidi Obi held his head up. “Would you sign?”

                                “NO!”

                Chidi took a deep breath. “Cut off his legs.”

                                “Boss, there would be no need for that.” Caro interrupted. “I swear to make him sign; we have to be careful not to provoke him. He would never sign with Torture. I have better means.”

                Chidi Obi sighed. “Can I trust your methods?

                                “Have I ever failed?”

                Chidi Obi took a deep breath. “Alright then. Erm…I would take some of the boys with me back to Lagos, we need to keep an eye on Williams’ daughter.”

                                “Sir, how many would you need?” Akume asked.

                Chidi shrugged. “Four would be fine, so you guys would be six here.” He said, and approached the door. “I would keep in touch with you frequently. Thanks Caro.” He said and walked out. Akume and Obaro walked out after him.

                Caro lifted Sameer’s blood stained face. “I am so sorry.”

                                “We have to hurry, Caro. It’s almost Wednesday.”

                She nodded. “There’s a big plan, we need more patience.”

                Akume and Obaro returned. “The Boss is heading for Lagos now. So we are going to be here, trying to get this idiot to sign.” Akume announced.

                                “Were you deaf? I told the Boss that I would use my own means to get Sameer to sign. I don’t need intruders.”

                Obaro stared at her. “Do you now have special powers that would make Sameer sign?”

                                “You are so daft. It is called the Power of seduction.”

                Akume and Obaro laughed. “Seduction?” Obaro asked. “Even if I am a foolish man, a man like Sameer, in his state can never fall for you.”

                Caro loosened her button a bit. “Really? I think Sameer is into me?”

                Akume cleared his throat. “Erm…Obaro, let the lady do her job. I think she’s really going to make him sign.”

                They headed for the door and Caro accompanied them. Akume turned sharply. “Erm...Caro, do you think we can get some special treatment too?” he said, smiling sheepishly.

                                “Of course boys…you just have to be good and let me use my means to get those papers signed.”

                Akume clapped his hand. “Yes her majesty. Get out, Obaro.” He said and they walked out.

                Caro stared at Sameer. “First we have to get you cleaned up.” She said and started to dress his wounds.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                                                                                                                                TUESDAY (11:30PM)

                                “All units check in.” Philip called over the radio.

                I watched from the Laptop in the Police vehicle. Philip had arranged some policemen to accompany us to the warehouse. My crossed my fingers as I watched Jake and Kolapo take out two guards from behind with sleeping injections on their necks. Dare and a Police man immediately tied them up and dumped them aside.

                                “Four more.” Philip announced and drummed on the warehouse door.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                Akume hissed. “Didn’t I tell those fools to get enough water and food for watching over the warehouse? What do they want now?” he said, standing up.

                Obaro shrugged. “Never mind, I will tell Bozzo to check. Bozzo! Bozzo!”

                Bozzo rushed in. “Yes Boss.”

                                “Check what those two fools want. Tonight is our night with Nurse Caro and they are about to ruin it.” He ordered. Bozzo nodded and disappeared.

                Nurse Caro walked into their room and unbuttoned her gown.

                Akume cleared his throat. “Erm...Caro, please go easy on us.”

                                “Of course.” She replied, with a sly grin. “Gents, please come together, we would have a threesome.”

                Obaro nodded. “Perfecto! It means we get to share together, not Akume going ahead of me. Oh Lord…have mercy.”

                Caro smiled and flung the door open. “We are going to need so much air. Someone might die.”

                                “Definitely, Obaro.” Akume said, grinning. “I am a power horse.”

                She nodded. “Let’s see who the power horse in the both of you is” she said.

                                “Start Caro…please Start.” Akume said.

                She smiled. “Patience boys…patience.”

                                “I am losing it. You can’t keep scintillating us and telling us to have patience.”

                Caro looked over her shoulder but there was no sign of Kolapo or Philip yet, she knew she had to delay them the more. “I am wearing perfect lingerie. Do you mind a lap dance?” she said, fetching a chair.

                                “Anything….” Akume said letting out some air. “Just give it to me.”

                Akume and Obaro drooled over Caro as they watched her strip to her Lingerie. Gunshots went off.

                                “What’s that? Obaro asked, jumping to his feet.

                                “It’s nothing. The hunters are probably gunning down animals.” Caro said, immediately.

                Akume nodded. “Ya...sure, Eh….Caro…I am coming for you now…” he said, rushing over to her.

                                “GET DOWN EVERYBODY!” Philip shouted as he rushed in with the Policemen.

                Akume and Obaro laid flat and Caro also did. The policemen cuffed the three of them.

                Philip opened the door to the room where Sameer was kept hostage. “Sameer?”

                                “Yes. Is it Wednesday, yet?” he asked.

                Philip smiled. “We’ll get you out of here now.”

                I waited anxiously for the warehouse door to open. And yes it did…Jake and Dare were helping Sameer out and the Policemen pushed Akume and Obaro out with Caro.

                                “Hey, give me the girl.” Philip said, and put Caro into a separate vehicle.

                Akume shouted. “She’s with us. She’s not innocent.”

                Philip nodded. “I know. I want to complete what you guys never did.” He said, and winked at them.

                Philip ensured that all of Chidi Obi’s men were loaded into the Police trucks and then he walked over to the Policemen. “Thanks guys. We would head for the district in Lagos. I have the phones of Chidi’s main men, we would ensure that there’s no contact and that if there would be, we would be speaking as Akume and Obaro.”

                                “Its okay, Philip. You have got your hands on a big case. Congrats man. We would get these ones locked up for sure, and the big fishes would join soon.”

                Philip smiled and watched the truck move.

                Caro was now dressed.  “You are one hot Policeman, I won’t mind flirting with you.” she said, as Philip approached. “I guess my work is done here.”

                                “I have one favour to ask, Could you please come with us, as another witness?” he asked.

                Caro’s face fell. “I can’t. I don’t want to walk into my own trap.”

                                “I would ensure you don’t go to jail.” He said, holding her hand.

                She shook her head. “I am sorry.” She said, and walked away.

                I could feel Caro’s fear and Pain. She had done everything for her sick old father and now she was scared of losing him. If he knew that she committed such horrendous crimes or that she went to jail, the old man would be devastated.

                                “Philip…do you think she would go to jail?” I asked as Philip as he approached the Car.

                He nodded. “You are a lawyer, you should know better. She has big crimes, she would be charged as an accomplice. She might just get minimal.”

                                “If we pull strings, right?” I asked.

                He shrugged. “I don’t know. It’s a bit cold out here, let’s get going.” He said, and hopped into the front seat with Kolapo. I took my seat with Sameer.

                                “I am sorry, Darlene.” he said

                I smiled. “I am the one who is sorry. I should have taken care of you.”

                                “Must Caro go to jail? She really helped me.” he asked. “She even treated my wounds.” He said.

                Sameer looked awful. I bet he was worse before he was treated. I let Sameer sleep off on my lap. I couldn’t wait for noon.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************

                Toni showed me Sameer and me a grey suit. “This should fit him perfectly.”

                                “Thank you.” he said.

                                “The bathroom is right around the corner, do hurry up.” She said, looking at her wristwatch “8:45am”

            I sighed and took my seat. “Toni, now I understand what it is to be in this game.”

                                “You really have some nerves going to fetch Sameer by yourselves. You guys should form a detective team. You guys did well.”

                I smiled. “Thank you. I have some bad news though.” I said. Toni straightened up in her seat. “Jake is going to marry Dora.”

                                “What? That’s impossible!”

                I nodded. “It is. After all, Paul married Marie in less than 2 weeks, I guess.” I said, smiling.

                                “How are you holding up about that?”

                I took a deep breath. “I am devastated. I even saw the ring. I can describe it in my sleep.”

                Toni reached out for me and hugged me tightly. “It’s okay, honey. Maybe, you just deserve this for being so indecisive.” We both laughed and tears started to flow from my eyes. “It’s okay, love.”