Prologue: Clear Skies
Nonso lies on the edge of a heap of sand at the beach, staring into the vast, star-studded night sky. The waves gently lap at the shore, a soothing rhythm that contrasts sharply with the turmoil inside him. It’s been a year unlike any other: surviving COVID-19, losing his job, and enduring the fallout of a disastrous relationship. He chuckles bitterly, tears streaming down his cheeks, their warmth a stark reminder of his vulnerability. Life, he muses, is as uncertain as it is certain. The unexpected has become the norm; in the blink of an eye, everything can change. He reflects on the past months, a kaleidoscope of moments flashing before his eyes. The steady pay check that vanished without warning, leaving him grappling with bills and an uncertain future. The relationship that seemed so promising, only to dissolve into misunderstandings and heartache. And the virus, an invisible enemy that brought the world to its knees, reshaping everyday life in unimaginable ways. Nonso closes his eyes, letting the cool night breeze wash over him. He remembers the nights spent in isolation, the endless news reports, the fear that settled in his chest like a heavy stone. He thinks of the countless job applications sent into the void, each rejection chipping away at his confidence. He recalls the arguments and the eventual silence that marked the end of his relationship, the empty space beside him a constant reminder of what he had lost.
Yet, here he is, lying on the sand, the universe spread out above him in all its infinite beauty. There's a strange comfort in the stars' distant light, a reminder that even inthe darkest times, there is something vast and enduring. He takes a deep breath, the salt air filling his lungs, grounding him in the present moment.
As he gazes up, a shooting star streaks across the sky, a fleeting burst of brilliance. Nonso makes a wish, not for something specific, but for the strength to keep moving forward. For the resilience to face whatever comes next, and for the wisdom to find peace amidst the chaos. The night grows colder, but Nonso doesn’t move. He stays there, a solitary figure on the shore, feeling both insignificant and connected to something greater. Life is unpredictable, but it is also full of possibilities. And perhaps, just perhaps, the dawn will bring a new beginning.
Episode 1: The Match Stick
"At the Babasola Ladi Mall on a bustling Saturday, the crowd swells with activity. In the midst of the mob, two young individuals meet at the food court. By the pillar of a busy food vendor stands Oyinda, a young woman in her early twenties. She is caramel in complexion, standing at 5'7" tall, and wearing a black and pink polka-dot dress that gently sways with her movements."
Oyinda: Hi, I’d like a mix fried rice and jollof rice, one goat meat and plantain, please.
Attendant: Is that everything?
Oyinda: Yes, that’s all.
**The attendant calculates the total**
Attendant: That’ll be three thousand, twohundred and fifty (3,250) naira.
**Oyinda hands over her atm card**
Attendant: Here's your card and receipt ma.
Oyinda: Thank you.
Attendant: Enjoy your meal.
**Oyinda finds a seat and sits down to eat. **
Oyinda: Finally, time to satisfy this oracle asking for food in my belly.
**A youngman dressed in a wine-coloured shirt and black trouser pant walks to her table**
Young man: Excuse me, is it okay if I sit here?
Oyinda: Yeah, sure, that's fine.
Young man: Thank you.
**Oyinda continues with her food whilethe young man sits, frequently checking his phone, like heis waiting for someone. He checks his phoneagain, still nothing. Oyinda continues to munch on her food and also paying attention to the stranger sitting on the same table. 2 hours later, still nosign of anything or anyone appearing for the young man. After a while, Oyinda notices his unease, decides to move for a small talk.**
Oyinda: Hello, would you like a drink? i have two, you can take the extra.
Young man: **smiles politely** Thank you very much, i am good.
Oyinda: Are you sure? because i have no issue with you sharing my extra.
Young man: I don't mean to be rude to your kind gesture, but I am good. I really do appreciate.
Oyinda: Alright. It looks like you are waiting for someone, because i noticed you checking your phone at intervals. So, it is quite obvious that you are definitely waiting for someone.
Young man: Well, I was but i guess the person had a second thought of not showing up.
Oyinda: Awwwn, I know how it feels. I am sorry about it.
Young man: It is fine.It happens. I'm sure there must be a reason the person failed to turn up.
Oyinda: I like your heart, still finding light in this situation. What's your name?
Young man: I'm Nonso.
Oyinda: Nonso, I'm Oyindamola, nice to meet you.
Nonso: Same here.
Oyinda: Errrrm, is it safe to say you were waiting for your date?
Nonso: Yes, apparently looks like she stood me up.
Oyinda: Sorry about that. You know what?
Nonso: What?
Oyinda: Let's play a game.
Nonso: Ok?
Oyinda: Let's assume you are on a blind date.
Nonso: Hmmmm, ok.
Oyinda: How would you approach the situation, assuming i am the date?
Nonso: Ok, give me 10 seconds. Let me get into character. Ok, I am set, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
**Nonso stands up andacts like hewas approaching the table.**
Nonso: Hi, you must be Oyinda? **He said with a smile**
Oyinda: Hi, yes, Nonso right? **She stands up to hug him**
Nonso: It's nice to finally meet you.
Oyinda: Same here.
Nonso: What would you like to eat? anything?
Oyinda: You don't have to stress. Had something before coming here. So let's not complicate my stomach.
Oyinda: It's not like i don't want something ooo **she rolls her eyes**, just letting my home training lead the way.
**They burst out in laughter.**
Nonso: You are a funny person. I like you, yes i do.
Oyinda: I like me too. The world needs many cheerful people. It feels good to get a laugh out of people all the time. It makes me feel good being good to people's heart.
Nonso: That's good. So, what do you do?
Oyinda: I work as a commercial executive for one of the big 5 companies in the country.
Nonso: Which one is that?
Oyinda: Guess?
Nonso: Errrrrm, Dangote?
Oyinda: Nah.
Nonso: Lilypro, myWakapartner, Magic House Franchise?
Oyinda: Ahahn, pick one na.
Nonso: Ok, Lilypro Limited
Oyinda: You are right.
Nonso: Wow wow wow...all hail the queen.
Oyinda: **rolls her eyes** What's so special about it?
Nonso: Lilypro? What's so special? stop whining me. You know how many people apply for jobs at Lilypro? I don't even need to ask sef. You know.
Oyinda: I get the buzz around it, but it is just a drab place for me. Planning to leave there soon.
**(Lilypro is a top HR/Audit firm in the country. Joint owned/founded by the Idadawa family, Mr Tesshuda Idadawa and Mrs Grace Hyeladi-Idadawa.They are both top professionals in the country and international bodies across countriesof the world).**
Nonso: I get the feeling of wanting to leave. Sometimes we get that desire to push our lives further especially when we are done with a particular environment.
Oyinda: As true I would love that to be, it isn't the case here. It's a long story, hopefully i get to tell you someday.
Nonso: Hmmmmn...okay. So, tell me more about you.
Oyinda: You haven't told me what you do.
Nonso: I work as a creative director in Afri-Alpha Tech.
Oyinda: Boss...Boss....Odogwu.
**Nonso bursts out in laughter.**
Nonso: I don't even know what to say to you.
Oyinda: Ahahn, so i am sitting with a 5-star general
Nonso: Oyin, you will not kill me with your humor. Ooya answer my question
**Oyinda's phone rings**
Oyinda on a call: You are outside already?
Caller: Yes ma, at the car park.
Oyinda: I'm coming outside now.
Nonso: Hope there is nothing wrong?
Oyinda: No ooo...my ride home is waiting outside. I have to go now.
Nonso: Thank you for making my day.
Oyinda: It's my pleasure. See you some other time. Bye.
**Oyinda makes a call and hurries outside to the car waiting by the entrance to pick her up. Before Nonso could say jack to get her phone number, she was gone.**
Nonso: **feeling disappointed** Damn, why didn't i think of this earlier. I hope we will surely meet again. At least, I know where she works.
Episode 2: Burning flames on water/In Loving
Memory.
It is no longer news that Afri-Alpha Tech is having the biggest takeover in the history of intra-industrial takeovers in Africa. Afri-Alpha Tech acquires Amazonian L'Afrique De Joux in a multi billion dollars tech takeover. Word on the streets of all social media platforms goes back to how Afri-Alpha Tech was started by a young woman, Gbejule Asar, as a center to promote information technology for womenand help them grow, seeing how swarmed up the industry is saturated by the male gender. In her words on 'The Women Hub' Magazine, "It all started like a hobby for me, though i didn't take it all too serious. But after getting series of advice from friends and family, i decided to push forward my dream, my goal and here we are with investors/partners making the dream better".
**In an event hosted by the company to celebrate their win.**
Journalist 1: Ma'am, Today is a great day. A moment we've all been waiting, I'd like to ask, did you see this at the start of your company.
Gbejule Asar: Truthfully, i did not. All i was concerned at that time was getting things in place and going.
Journalist 2: Afri-Alpha Tech, I'm very sure this is not the name you started with, did you settle for a more professional or catchy name as your company grew?
Gbejule Asar: AA Tech as i like to call it wasn't its original name. AA Tech is more of communal name for everyone of us in the company.
Journalist 3: We heard that the United States of America are personally invested in the finances of the company, more reason the influencing body for the takeover, is thistrue?
Gbejule Asar: Rumors will always be rumors. The United States of America government are not in any form involved in this takeover. Everyone at AA Tech worked really hard to be here. When i say everyone, it includes every single staff working for AA Tech. Our dreams merged and evolved.
Journalist 2: We hear you keep an open-door approach, why is that?
Gbejule Asar: I'm always accessible to my staff. The door might be quite opened, I always trust my staffs never to abuse the opportunity.
Journalist 1: How does this takeover impact the country at large?
Gbejule Asar: The focal point is the economy. This has opened our economy and trade options for the outside world to trust our market in whatever form in terms of their money being invested. This is an opportunity for investors outside the country to come and see that our economy isn't as bad as it is portrayed in the media.
Journalist 3: Final question, are we looking at more employment opportunities?
Gbejule Asar: Yes, definitely. That's the purpose of this takeover.
**GbejuleAsar walks away to attend to other dignitaries.**
Mr Finsit: Nonso, Nonso ***He calls from afar, hegestures with his hands for him to come***
**Nonso walks to meet Mr Finsit. Mr Finsit is the General Manager Admin**
Nonso: You called sir?
Mr Finsit: Yes, I want you to meet our new HR, Miss Dera Idama-Adkins. Dera, this is Nonso Alabi, our creative director.
**Nonso extends his hands in attemptto shake her.**
Nonso: It's a pleasure to meet you.
Dera: Same here.
Mr Finsit: Do you know she graduated from your alma-mata?
Nonso: oh really?
Dera: Yes.
Nonso: What year? What set?
Dera: Class 14/15
Nonso: No way. I am 14/15 too
**They both laugh in amazement**
Dera: What department?
Mr Finsit: I will leave you two to catch up, let me attend to other things.
Nonso & Dera: Alright sir.
Nonso: L.I.D, Local and International Development.
Dera: Are you serious? same here too. Wait, wait, how come i can't remember you?
Nonso: I'm sure you must be one of those serious ones that sit in front of the class.
**They laugh out loud**
Nonso: I'm sure you remember Dr. Ajalasin's funny lectures.
Dera: At one point, i felt the man's intent was to make us fail by being unserious in our class.
Nonso: I know right but some of us did like his classes, comic reliefs for us especially with the whole school stress.
Dera: Ahah, what else should stress you in school if it is not the school itself?
Nonso: We cannot comman die ooo. I'm glad to meet a familiar face from my uni days, most especially excited that we will be working together.
Dera: Same here.
Nonso: I see your hand is empty, what drink would you like?
Dera: I can't really say.
Nonso: You know what? Let's go to the bar counter to get your order.
**Dera makes a choice for her drink. She settled for Ibadan Marco-polo (It's a cocktail with ginger, orange, pineapple, kiwi, bitter kola extract, and vodka).**
Nonso: I hope you know this drink can literally knock you out. Me i dunno what you people see in this thing ooo.
Dera: It is for the strong hearted dear. When you've been in tough positions, you will find something to help destress.
Nonso: I am a fruit juice person. I drink alcohol if it is necessary for the occasion.
Dera: I see you might not be a fun person.
Nonso: You don't judge a man by the kind of drink he takes. Wild things happen even in odd places, let's just leave it here.
**Dera laughs**
Dera: You are not serious. So, tell me what it is like working here.
Nonso: Honestly, this place is quite amazing. Maybe it's because i haven't tried other places to really decide but here, i love my job and the space for personal growth.
Dera: Hmmmmmmn, nice. I like the sound of that.
Nonso: G.A is the best boss i can ever ask for. An amazing woman and down to earth, i would go miles with her to see this company grows.
Dera: G.A? You meanMadam Gbejule Asar?
Nonso: Yes.
Dera: Tell me about every other person working here?
**Nonso and Dera turn to face the crowd as hepoints to everyone working for AfriAlpha Tech.**
Dera: Thank goodness, as much as i might still do my ownpersonal research, the information i got from you will go a long way to make my work easy. So i say thank you.
Nonso: Anything for someone from my alma-mata.
Dera: I think I’ve had my fill for this evening, i need to use the rest room.
Nonso: oh, alright...I’ll be here till you return.
**Dera heads for the restroom, Nonso could not stop feasting his eyes on thebeautiful faces hekeptseeing.**
Nonso: Wahala for who single ooo, let me turn on my 007 mode.
**He walks with his drink in his hands in a bidto get the attention ofthose bachelorettes that came as guests to the event. His phonerings.**
**Grrrrr Grrrrrrr - Focus, a song by Joeboy plays, Andiett Kenzo calls, He picks...**
Andiett Kenzo: My guy, how far na?
Nonso: I dey ooo, this one wey i see your call, what's happening?
Andiett Kenzo: O boy, you won't believe it, you know that level i have been working on for a while?
Nonso: That travel plan?
Andiett Kenzo: Yes, yes, it finally clicked. I got a job with a company over there and guess what?
Nonso: What?
Andiett Kenzo: The pay is maaaaaaaaaaaad!!! Like 7 figures in foreign currency.
Nonso: A.K the chief chief, guy i'm happy for you, like super happy for you.
When you dey move?
Andiett Kenzo: Na money be the problem now ooo, that's why i'm calling. My guy, i need like "1.5 meters"(i.5 million) from you, to help balance up what i have. I sold all my properties.
Nonso: You know wetin? Make i check wetin dey ground first. I'm not assuring you, but let's see how it goes.
Andiett Kenzo: When do i get feedback from you?
Nonso: Let's say tonight or best tomorrow evening.
Andiett Kenzo: Thanks a lot my guy, i really appreciate the effort. Wait sef, no be groove i dey hear so?
Nonso: Na groove oooo.
Andiett Kenzo: Guy guy, you no do well.
Nonso: As how na?
Andiett Kenzo: Why you no invite me?
Nonso: haba, no be like that, you sef know sey i no fit sideline my people from premium fun. It's my company that is hosting a party for our takeover, so it's strictly by invitation.
Andiett Kenzo: Oh Oh, i get, no wahala na, make i leave you to enjoy.
Nonso: How far your babe na, Lisa?
Andiett Kenzo: She dey ooo, Lisa and trouble, 5 & 6, but we good sha.
Nonso: My regards to her, tell her well-done for not reaching us ooo.
Andiett Kenzo: **Laughs** I go deliver your message. Ooya na, we will talk later, no forget me ooo.
Nonso: Yeah, later.
**Call ends**
Episode 3: Fire & Ice
The next day at the office, Nonso receives a mail to attend an event on behalf of the company in Benin.
Mr Finsit: Nonso, please come in.
Nonso: I was told you wanted to see me sir.
Mr Finsit: Yes, I’m sure you saw the mail sent to you this morning as well as the e-invite from the organizers.
Nonso: Yes, i did.
Mr Finsit: You will be representing the company as well as also speaking in that event too.
Nonso: Alright sir.
Mr Finsit: Transportation & Accommodation are being paid for the number of days you will spend there. I will forward the flight ticket and accommodation details as well as the necessary information to help build your speech.
Nonso: Ok. Let me go back to my office.
**Nonso walks back to his office, two of his office colleagues come to tease him.**
Alero: Man of the hour.
James: Odogwu one of Africa.
**They burst into laughter**
Nonso: This one wey i see una for my office.
James: O boy, we hear sey you dey go vacation for benin.
Nonso: Na real vacation.
Alero: Afar na, i get one smallie wey i fit run you for benin, better massage.
Nonso: No stress yourself, i have it covered.
Alero: Badooo, Baddest Gee.
Nonso: Abeg abeg, nauna worse pass me.
James: Wait, una dan see the new HR?
Alero: O boy, that girl fine die, though small pride with her kom kom shoe that won't let the office rest.
Nonso: Una no well.
James: E be like sey i go run this parole.
Nonso: No try am ooo, i dan give you my warning, anything you see, you collect.
Alero: Eweleke, you mean am?
Nonso: Yes ooo. Una know that guy for audit?
Alero: Joseph?
James: Ehn, na Joseph na wey get bald head
Nonso: Na so HR fire am warning paper for sexual assault, the guy is on suspension for 2 weeks.
James: Abeg abeg abeg, nothing go happen. No be me? I go share testimony come una side.
Alero: I dan wash hand comot from anything wey concern James matter.
***They burst into laughter***
Alero: Abeg, wetin be time?
**James checks his wrist watch**
James: 12:45 p.m.
Alero: Make i dey go my office. **Alero rushes out of Nonso's office**
James: wait for me na.
Nonso: These boys no go kill me.
**A mail pop up on Nonso's mailbox. He opens it, displays all the details Mr Finsit was going to send.**
Nonso: It's definitely going to be a work full 3 days. Let me check my flight time.
**He checks ** I will be leaving Lagos early, wahala no dey finish. Let me just go through the event details.
***Nonso works on hisspeech for the event coming up in the Benin city. His phone rings. ***
Caller: My guy, N to the o- n- s- o
Nonso: Who is this?
Caller: Guy, you no well ooo, you no recognize my voice? Na Remi.
Nonso: Fool, you dango change number again ehn, which girl you dey run from again?
Remi: O boy, you no go understand. Man must stay away from these containers a little before they leave you dry.
Nonso: I thought you are capable na.
Remi: My guy, body no gree for capable, make e no be say na "he died in active service" dem go write for my grave
Nonso: So you dey fear woman? Things are happening.
Remi: Nonso free that matter abeg, how far na, your face scarce small for street, make we see this evening na, for our usual spot.
Nonso: No wahala, na just the two of us?
Remi: You know na, some smallies dey show na, how drink wan take go down if dem no dey?
Nonso: Oooya, king of enjoyment princesses, aka Bashorun gaaa for the women
Remi: **laughs** no dey whine me, you na badoo too, we sabi as you dey run things. We go see later na.
Nonso: Ok na.
**Calls ends**
**Nonso meets up Remi in their regular spot in the heart of Lagos, Numero Uno, an outdoor lounge, the evening weather seems nice and friendly for everyone seated. He walks in, trying to locate where Remi is seated. He calls his number. Remi finds him.**
Remi: My guy, How far na? **they shake hands**
Nonso: This place no too bad ooo, abeg wey our table?
**Remi points to a table having two ladies seated and a champagne bucket. Nonso greets the two ladies.**
Nonso: You no go introduce me to these beautiful women here?
Remi: You know na...This is Olivia **seated on the right to Remi**, then Diane **The ladies give off beautiful smiles**. Ladies, meet my friend, Nonso.
**Nonso exchanges pleasantries with theladies. The evening was going so well. The music, the exotic drinkon their table, thefood, theweather. Diane caught the attention of Nonso. Their conversation was going so well, thus exchanging numbers. It was time for Nonso to leave.**
Nonso: Remi, time is up here. I'm going home, i have a long day tomorrow. So let me rest my self early.
Remi: No wahala, i understand.
Nonso: Ladies, I have to leave, i have a lot to do.
Olivia & Diane: Take care...**they wave at him as he leaves.
**Nonso drives home in his 2020 Honda civic car. He tunes to the radio station, 96.7 fm, Trickle FM vibing to the latest Nigeria hits songs. Suddenly, a breaking news interrupts. **
Radio Host:We would like to inform thegeneral public about therestrictions for airline operators in thecountry. For those that want to travel outside Lagos, all flights have been suspended till further notice. This is due tothe impending strike by the association of pilots over their salaries and benefits. **
Nonso: Haaaa, what kind of thing is this? Why does it have to be the time i'm about to travel. I guess i will have to tell the office to book a bus instead.
**Nonso calls Mr Finsit to update him about the latest regarding his trip.**
Mr Finsit: Oh, i heard it too. I will tell the logistics department to change the transport plan. We might have to get you an escort vehicle to the location.
Nonso: Oh wow. Whatever the plan would be sir, please let me know so i can also prepare for the road trip.
Mr Finsit: I'll talk to them now. You should receive an official email with the details in about 30 minutes.
Nonso: Alright, thank you sir.
**Thirty minutes later, Nonso receives an email confirming the travel arrangements.** Dear Nonso,
We have made arrangement for your trip via a private transportation company. Please do well to send a landmark and address for them to pick you up. The time for movement is 7:30am.
Regards, Logistics Team Lead.
Nonso: Finally, i can get this travelling arrangement over with. I need to make one more call.
**Nonso dials his phoneto call his mom**
Nonso: Mama, good evening ma.
Nonso's mom: You are a true son of your father. I was just thinking about calling you.
Nonso: Oh really? i know it is all for good. Mama, i am travelling to Benin city tomorrow for a work event.
Nonso's mom: This una work ehn. There's no day we speak and i hear you are at home resting.
Nonso: Mama, that's why they pay me huge salary to cater for my discomfort.
Nonso's mom: You know everything is not money. Just know what you are doing. Be careful and don't forget to always pray, you cannot do anything without God being involved.
Nonso: Mama, I've heard you. That's why i love you.
Nonso's mum: Ehn, lest i forget, Nonso, nonso, nonso, how many times did i call you?
Nonso: Three times ma. Before you talk, i know what you are about to say and i am working on it.
Nonso's mum: What do you know that i am about to say? anyways, when am i going to meet your girlfriend?
Nonso: Mama, you know how these girls of nowadays are, someone has to be careful with them. Besides, you always say "It is not every house you see that you enter."
Nonso's mum: You are right. That's why i am constantly reminding you. Don't just feel to relaxed. Make attempts, pray too and i know God will provide you your ownwoman. I am not rushing you ooo, but i just want to know starting a family is also a priority as a young man.
Nonso: Mama, i am trying my best.
Nonso's mum: Ooya, let us pray...
**The prayer lasts for5 mins** in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen
Nonso: Mama, let me get my things ready for travel. I will call you later.
Nonso's mum: Ok my son. Take care of yourself. Wait wait, didyou hear from younger sister, Sarah?
Nonso: We still spoke this morning. Is there anything?
Nonso's mum: She told me she needed money to buy a book in school.
Nonso: I just sent her money this morning.
Nonso's mom: That girl will not kill me. Ok my son, take care ofyourself. Ngwanu later.
**Calls end**
Chapter 4: I am bad for you
Oyinda: **on a phone call** See i don't care what you think of me, but everything ends today. I am tired, i am done. What have i done to deserve this? **she sobs**
Caller: **in a loud angry tone** You are going nowhere. Shey you are proving to be stubborn abi? You've not seen the last of me. When I come home, I will deal with you mercilessly.
Oyinda: **she cries** Seyi, what have I done to deserve this constant abuse? All you’ve done is beat me and raise your voice when you want things done your way. All I have ever given you is sincere love. But you, you have the audacity to impregnate another woman and expect me not to have an opinion? To keep quiet like a slave?
Seyi: **Responds without remorse** What isunder the sun that no one has seen or heard before? It’s not like your opinionmatters here. I will do whatever I like, anytime I want, with whosoever I choose, and there's nothing you can do about it. You are stuck with me, you have nowhere to go. Wait sef, what do you think you were going to do? Run away? To where? Which family? The same family you ran away from? **laughs** You are quite a clown. A big clown at that.
Oyinda: Seyi, my God will judge you. If I have ever lied to you, let Him punish me. I don't even know why I am crying. But this evil you have done to me ends today. **call ends**
**Oyinda begins to pack her bags to leave thehouse. Suddenly, Seyi comes in with fury.**
Seyi: Oyinda! **hescreams** Oyinda, where are you? I will deal with you today. So you think you can insult me and won’t get punished for it? I will show you what a bastard can do today.
**Oyinda, hearing his rage, locks thedoor andstarts crying. Seyibangs the door.**
Seyi: Oyinda, open this door for me. **he bangs thedoor** Oyinda, 1, Oyinda, 2, Oyinda, 3, open this door for me!
**Oyinda, crying, responds.**
Oyinda: No, I won’t. Leave me alone. Seyi, leave me alone. Somebody help me, Seyi wants to kill me! **She slides to thefloor crying, hoping for a miracle. Thereis a sudden quietness in thehouse. Seyi goes to look for a hammer to break the door. A loud bang on the door from the hammer in Seyi’s hands. Oyinda who is already fearing for her life, begins to shout for help**
Oyinda: Somebody help me **shecries** somebody help me.
**Seyi burst the door open with thehammer, grabs Oyindaby theneck**
Seyi: Today is that day i will show a lessonof a lifetime. You improper fool. I will deal with you. How can you be letting me shout unnecessarily in my own house?
**He punches her deeply, to her face, her ribs, her back, to her lips. Oyinda, cries for help, till hewas donebeating her. Seyi goes to the sitting room to smoke, and have a sip of alcohol, leaving Oyinda to mop after her injuries.**
Oyinda: ** whisperingto herself** God, I don't know how long i am going to continue like this. If i don't find a wayout of this house, my dead body might be the first to leave. **she goes to the shower to clean up herself andtreat her wounds. Seyi comes toknock on thebathroom door**
Seyi: Oyin, **heknocks**, babe, i am sorry,i don't know what came over me. I don't even know what to say. I am sorry.
**Oyin still washing all the blood stains on her body, shouts atSeyi**
Oyinda: Please leave me alone. You keep doing this every time.When are you eventually going to stop, until i am dead? Please just leave me alone.
Seyi: I promise not to do it again. I promise. This time i am really really sorry.
Oyinda: **She screams** Please go away. I don't want to see you, i don't want to ever see you.
**Seyi being a temperamental person, couldn't just fathom why she doesn't wantto see him or listen to hisapology, then his ragebuilds up**
Seyi: You better open the door now. Do you think i will have to wait here all day to beg you?
**He bangs at thedoor hard, which got Oyinda scared**
Seyi: Oyin, i am going to count to 10, if youdon't open this door, i am sure you don't want to see the other side of me.
**Oyinda shivering in fear and what to do, began crying out loud**
Oyinda: Seyi, please, please, i will open the door, let me finish. Please. **she cries**
Seyi: Ooya, i will be waiting here.
**Oyinda, wrapped in towel with blood stain and bruises all over her body, proceeds to open the door with tears in her eyes. Seyi, immediately lands a slap onher face. She fell to the ground, having seizures.**
Seyi: Oyin stop, if this is one of those your tricks, please stop now.
**Oyinda continues in seizure, jerking continously. Seyi lifts her, trying to wake up, becomes scared.**
Seyi: Oyinda, wake up, wake up, ooya, i am sorry. **He lifts her into his arms and rushes to the car, to take her to thehospital.He drives her to the nearest hospital, Mt Mothermot.** Somebody help me, **he draws the attention of the nurses. They got her on the emergency bed**.
Nurse 1: Oga, please stay here, we will attend to her.
**Seyi pacing around**
**In theemergency treatment room**
Doctor: Give her xxml of epinephrine **Oyinda gradually regains consciousness**, **The doctor writes some prescriptions for the nurse to do**
Doctor: Please attend to the patient while i see the family outside. **Thedoctor calls for Seyi's attention in his consulting room**
Seyi: Doctor, doctor, how is she now?
Doctor: Relax, she will definitely be fine as soon as she gets the treatment i recommended to restore her. So, if i may ask, how did she get to that position? is she epileptic? has some form of mental illness?
Seyi: **stutters** she is not epileptic, maybe a little mental illness signs once in a while. I got home and suddenly found on the bathroom floor in that position.
Doctor: Hmmmn, so if get you correctly, no previous epilepsy episodes.
Seyi: Yes.
Doctor: We will recommend some scans for her to do, meanwhile i will be placing her on drip, thus admitting her.
Seyi: Let me use that opportunity to get some her items, like a new dress and food.
Doctor: I will hand you over to these nurses at the station opposite her ward, they will sort anything out.
**Seyi leaves the hospital back to thehouse as he said, hegets home, walks straight to the fridge to drink some vodka, drinking himself to stupor. He lays in the couch, picks up his to call one of his other side chicks**
Seyi: Lade baby
Lade: Seyi, this one that you are calling me, hope nothing, after all you abandoned me.
Seyi: How can i abandon my favorite girl na? you know its not possible.
Lade: Na so una go talk, lies and men, 5 & 6. I hear.
Seyi: Check your bank app, sent you something.
**Lade briefly checks her phone to a bank alert**
Lade: Awwwn, see i know you are correct guy, you know how to apologize in the right way. Ooya, what do you want? Should i come over?
Seyi: You should be on the road already.
Lade: Shey you will pay my uber fare.
Seyi: Enter road na, don't worry about that. I need you right here.
Lade: Just give me 20 minutes, let me look and smell good for you. I hope there's food to eat, cos me i am hungry ooo.
Seyi: Use your money, i will refund you.
Lade: i don dey road like this.
**Call ends. 30minuteslater, a car drops by atSeyi's place. Lade, a light skinned chubby lady, steps out of the car. Seyi opens the door for her to come in. They greet each other with a longhug and they proceed in to the house.**
Seyi: It's good to finally have you here.
Lade: Me sef don miss you.
Seyi: How far? did you buy my own food?
Lade: Trust me na, I bought your favorite, amala and abula with goat meat.
Seyi: I know you are the one that will finally kill me.
**Lade bursts out in laughter. They ate thefood, discussing over a movie too.**
Lade: We both know i can't do anything. **she gives him a side eye**
Seyi: Lade baby, my one and only lade baby, i have really missed you ooo, how you used to make me feel good, it's the best feeling i have despite all my plenty stress. You keep me centered forreal.
Lade: Really? because you don't used to act like you want me around you except for when you need to satisfy your sexual needs. I don't have an issue with it ooo, but well i might become unavailable soon. If you are really interested in me as you claim.
Seyi: Stop na. You know how much i want you, maybe i don't saythis too often, but i know within my heart that it is you i want to marry.
Lade: Seyi and lies, 5 & 6. You better stop, if there's someone you want to be lying to just to have sex with them, it better not be me. Anyways, let me goan shower.
Seyi: Yummy, we canshower together na.
Lade: Abeg abeg, shift jare.
Seyi: I know you want me to join you.
Lade: Sha come like that.
**Lade and Seyi both go in to have a steamy shower, then proceeded to the bed, turning her over and over like 2k suya**
Lade: Seyi, you will not kill me ehn. You want to destroy my natural factory
**Seyi bursts out in laughter**
Seyi: This woman you are funny. See who is saying i should not kill her. I was about calling emergency lines to come and rescue me because i can't explain what got over you.
Lade: Lie lie, mister man. **Lade laughs**
Seyi: I have quite missed you. Honestly, this is like the best sex I've had in a long while.
Lade: Another lies.
Seyi: I am being truthful. The last time i had sex was the last time we saw.
Lade: So, you are saying you and that your girlfriend has not done in a long while?
Seyi: If i explain, you will still not believe. Whatever i say is how it is for me.
Lade: Are sure after today, you will not disappear like usual.
Seyi: shift jor. Let'sgo on a vacation together. Any place of your choice.
Lade: Really?
Seyi: Yes, any place of your choice. To show i want you around me more than usual.
Lade: Well, today is my lucky day. I have been looking at some places for some time. I will send them to you, and let me know what you think.
Seyi: Ehehn, that's nice.
Lade: Though, i already have a favorite place in mind. I don't know your budget, reason why i want to send the ones i have in mind.
**Seyi's phonebeeps**
Lade: I have forwarded them to you. Hope you are not playing with me? because let me not goan pack my bag and you become unreachable.
Seyi: I meant what i said. I want to spend more time with you.
Lade: okay baby. You know i love you.
**Seyi giggles**
Chapter 5: There's nothing left for me here
Two years after Nonso's career break into management level, giving his 100 percent into making sure the company successes are continuous. He stayed away from social life all through those years, most especially relationships because of the many dramas here and there to focus on his career.
**Phone rings, Nonso'smum appears on the screen. He picks**
Nonso: Hello Mama, Good afternoon ma.
Nonso's Mum: my dear good afternoon. Why your voice dey sound like this? are you ok?
Nonso: Mama, i am fine. I just woke up. Busy work week. I no too dey sleep.
Nonso's Mum: Sorry my son. Make i call you back so you can sleep?
Nonso: Mummy, No ooo. You can talk.
Nonso's Mum: Ehehn, thank you my son. There are things i wan to discuss with you.
Nonso: Mummy, i am with you.
Nonso's Mum: Chinonso, Chinonso, Chinonso. How many times did i call you?
Nonso: Three times mama. What is going onexactly? This one you are calling my name like this.
Nonso's Mum: I am getting worried for you ooo.
Nonso: Mama, what do you mean?
Nonso's Mum: I am seriously getting worried. How long do you want to continue like this? ehn. How long? Every time work this, work that. No time to rest. No companion. Do you think you are still young ehn? When will you have time to settle down? Every time i want to talk about this, you shut me up. If i am not concerned for you, not just as your mother, I will let you live your life the way you want it. After all, you are an adult. You deal with your choices and be responsible for them.
**At this point, Nonso is speechless.**
Nonso's mum: So, you will not say anything ehn?
Nonso: Mama, what do you want me to say?ooya, I’ve heard you. I know you are just looking out for me. I will put all your words into consideration.
Nonso's mum: Thank you my son. I pray the universe continue to favor you. You will find calm in the hands of the human that is yours.
Nonso: Amen, Amen. Mummy, when last did you go for check up?
Nonso's mum: I went to the hospital yesterday. My bp is ok and every other thing. The doctor only advised that i don't stress myself.
Nonso: Thank God. Ihope you are eating and using your drugs as at when you should?
Nonso's mum: Yes i am. I dey eat ooo. Abeg abeg, i have only one life
**Nonso laughs**
...Ehehn, i just remembered. Do you remember that our neighbor that stays at the back flat in that our former house?
Nonso: i think mummy Oyinda?
Nonso's mum: Yes yes. I met her on my wayto the market two days ago. We spoke at length. My son, it is good to be good ooo.
Nonso: Yes ma.
Nonso's mum: So, her first daughter, Olivia, is getting married next weekend.
Nonso: That's nice ooo.
Nonso's mum: We willbe going to the wedding together.
Nonso: Mama, i am not so sure about my availability. But i will try.
Nonso's mum: Please try ehn. God bless you. I will send you the Invitation card so you can see the location of the venue.
Nonso: Ok ma.
Nonso's mum: Let me allow you continue your sleep. Take care, i will call you later.
Nonso: Ok mama.
**Call ends**
**Nonso goes back to sleep. Then hehad a dream.**
DREAM SCENE
Nonso finds himself wrapped in an all-white apparel in a strange house looking empty. Suddenly, a child appears to him from afar all dressed in a white apparel and painted in white, making a "follow me" gesture. Nonso looking confused and scares at the same time. The strange child repeated the same hand gesture.
Nonso: Hello, who are you? what is your name? **fearfully speaking out loud**
**The child suddenly disappears. Now, Nonso looks extremely scared wondering how he got there and whatkind of being that was.Thechild appears beside Nonso, this time holding his hands.**
Nonso: Blood of Jesus. Who are you? what are you? **He struggles to leave the grip of the child**
Strange Child: You have nothing to worry. Just follow me.
Nonso: Follow you to where? who are you? i am not going anywhere unless you explain yourself to me.
Strange Child: You really want to know?
Nonso: Yes.
Strange Child: Then follow me.
**The child walks in front with absolutely no legs touching theground. They gotto a fountain and a well with a bucket by theside.**
Strange Child: Come, Come, Come. Help me fetch a bucket then you will know who i am.
**Nonso picks up thebucket and uses it to fetch water from the well. Something strange happened as hedipped the water into the well. He saw an image of himself looking Old, with a woman carrying a child.**
Strange Child: What did you see as you are fetching the water?
Nonso: I saw myself with a woman and a child. what does it mean?
Strange Child: When the time comes, you will know. But i have an assignment for you to do for me in the human world.
Nonso: You still haven't explained yourself to me.
Strange Child: I am Ugbanko Medewo, the spirit of your ancestors. I was with your forefathers, so also your father.
Nonso: **looking confused** Ok?
Strange Child: My job is to protect your lineage. This was what i swore to your forefathers. You are in grave danger. That's why i am appearing to you. Now listen to me. When you wake up, take a naira note out of your pocket, and saw a word or two onit. Give it to the first beggar you see. Leave the rest to me.
Nonso: How do i know you are who you say you are? You could literally be anybody or any spirit claiming to know me.
**The strange child gives off a wicked laugh**
Strange Child: You are just like your father. The Sun is fast approaching. Don't forget all i told you to do.
**The air around Nonso started getting thinner and difficult to breathe. He collapses. Wakes up feeling choked and gasping for air, sweating profusely.**
Nonso: Blood of Jesus, blood of Jesus, blood of Jesus.
**He regains calm and proceeded to rinse his face in thebathroom. Looking atthe mirror, he tried recounting thewhole dream. **
Nonso: God abeg, which kind dream be this ehn?
**He rinses off his face and went back into the room. Checked his time, it was already 6:30 am, changes into his sport outfit to go jogging. He took money out of his wallet to do exactly as hewas told in the dream.**
Nonso: Let's see what will truly happen.
**Nonso's phone rings, and he checks, it's hisfriend Remi.**
Remi: Guy, how far? Where you dey?
Nonso: You already know by this time i will be jogging.
Remi: You and this jogging, no be by who sabi run pass ooo.
Nonso: Remi, rest. You lazy since 100 level days.
Remi: You dey mad.
**They both laugh it off**
Nonso: So, what's up? this one wey you call me this early, hope no be woman hold you for neck?
Remi: Chai, God no go shame me sha. Ehn, na woman, abeg you fit run me 50k sharp sharp. i go refund you tomorrow abeg. Make i use am disperse this one wey dey my bed. Herwahala too much.
Nonso: **makes a transfer of themoney** I don run am. Check your alert.
Remi: My guy, e be like say na you i go marry **Remi laughs**
Nonso: You don kolo i swear even if you turn woman, i no fit. Your lifestyle na another thing entirely.
Remi: Guy, thank you.I appreciate a lot.
Nonso: Anytime my Gee. You dey available next weekend?
Remi: Wetin dey sup?
Nonso: E get one family friend wedding wey i suppose go but i no wan do the waka alone. Though mumsy follow join the movement but you know as e be na
Remi: i go come if you agree for me to come with my "peakful" women
Nonso: mudafucka **Laughs** I hope women won't be the end of you. Time na around that 1pm for Falomo side.
Remi: Falomo? i get one consignment for there. I go show my guy.
Nonso: Stay safe bro.
**Call ends**
Chapter 6: Twice shy, Once bitten
**Wedding Scene**
A loud music from the event hall by the DJ, Brymo - For you, the event planner putting finishing touches to the beautiful, Caterers arranging their stands as guests come in little by little. Some from the church event preceding the reception, and others from their various houses. Guests in their different colors as given by the bride and groom color of the day code, taking pictures at the red carpet. The hall divided into two, guests sitting in their respective sections. Olivia's mum going about trying to get her guests comfortable, greeting every knownface as well. Each table has been tagged with the respective guests tag to make things for people. Gradually, the hall is getting filled, the MC is set, MC Landlord (one of the best in the country), both the groom and bride guests filling up table spaces. Olivia's mum makes a call to her daughter and entourage to find out their location.
Olivia's mum: Where are you people now? can't you see the time already?
Olivia: Mummy we are almost ready. The make up artist just finished my makeup. I am about to dress up.
Olivia's mum: I give you people 20 minutesto leave that hotel. Have you heard from your Adewale?
Olivia: **feeling tensed** Mummy no. I will call him now.
Olivia's mum: Me, i don't understand all these things you people are doing. By now i expect everyone of you to be in the hall by now. You people don’t know we have guests coming from far places and need to return home early enough ehn?
**She ends the call. Olivia's mum approaches her in-laws to hasten Adewale and his groom'smen.**
Olivia's mum: Mummy Adewale, please helpus call Adewale, i just called Olivia and i expected them to be in the hall by now.
Mummy Adewale: These children will not give us headache. Let me call him now. **Adewale's mum makes a call to Adewale, and reiterated the timing.They should have been hereby now.**
**The new couple eventually arrived atthe reception hall. All theguests areseated. Including thespecial guests of honor seated on the high table**
MC Landlord: Dj, dj, reduce the music. Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, we welcome you all to the wedding between Adewale and Olivia. Just as we all know; the couple will be having their ceremonial walk-in dance before they sit. So DJ, play the music.
**The DJ plays Flavor - big baller. Thebridal train and the grooms’ men come in dancing, whilst thecouple follows behind dancing as well. Guests standing up to take pictures and videos of the colorful couple. Some also spraying them money as well. The bride and groom eventually got to sit down. The chairman of the occasion gave his opening speech toast and other fun activities to keep thewell-wishers entertained.
Nonso, his friend, Remy and his plus ones wereall seated too as well watching as each activity went. Then theMC played a game which involved thebridal train. They were each asked to bring a bachelor before thegame could proceed. Oyinda, being the chief bridesmaid was also part of this. One of the ladies picked Nonso. **
MC Landlord: Now that you all have finally brought man to us for blessings, here's the twist, swap your manwith the next person.
** They all swapped themselves. Nonso and Oyinda got matched. Oyinda still hasn't recognized Nonso yet. **
MC Landlord: You all will do 3 activities for me. You will dance to 3 song choice. The crowd will vote the best couple.
**The first song came, they danced. Some pairings were eliminated. Same as the second as well. **
MC Landlord: See the last song, you will have to make it believable for everyone.
**The DJ played a slow song, Luther Vandross - Dancing with my father. Nonso and Oyinda held themselves close to suit the purpose of music.There was this tension between the two of them. So intense, then Nonso being a terrible dancer decides to move for a small talk as they weredancing**
Nonso: Do you recognize me?
Oyinda: No, but i have a feeling i do.
Nonso: Do you remember Afolabi obe street, that your neighbor that would always stand at his balcony watching and when he sights you, runs back in?
Oyinda: **she bursts into laughter and in amazement** No way, noway. Nonso.
Nonso: Yes?
Oyinda: oh wow, see how grown you are now. Who would believe we would be finding each other in this position?
Nonso: You have also grown into a beautiful lady.
**MC Interrupts**
MC Landlord: Crowd, who is the best couple here? is it couple 1? **the crowd agreed with a Yes**, Is it couple 2? **they said No**, Is it couple 3(Nonso and Oyinda)? **They responded with a loud No**
MC Landlord: Bros, you don marry?
Nonso: No
MC Landlord: Aunty, you sef don marry?
Oyinda: No
MC Landlord: By the power vested in me as the MC, you may take your woman back to your seats, but bros, no dance like this for your wedding day o. I fit recommend YouTube videos wey go help you.
**crowd erupts in laughter**
MC Landlord: Make una no forget me for the wedding. Na police go settle the matter.
**participants proceed back to their seats. Nonso points to where heis sitting. **
Remi: Guy guy, you don land one big babe ooo.
Nonso: Na you know that one ooo
Remi: Ode, you go dey do like innocent person for here. Na who no know you go dey assume say "Nonso is a good boy".
**Oyinda comes by their tablewith some wine**
Oyinda: Hi hi **She greets Nonso and everyone at their table**
Nonso: You can sit.
**Oyinda sits close to Nonso, and they have a little chat. **
Nonso: Wow, i must say again, you look amazing in this dress.
Oyinda: **Flattered** Thank you. You are not bad yourself.
Nonso: It's been ages. Like really, really long. The Oyinda i used to crush on back then.
**Oyinda blushes**
Nonso: You don't look like how i used to know you.
Oyinda: What do you expect? **they both laugh**
Nonso: I think i still have an old birthday with you in it when we were little.
Oyinda: Really?
**Nonso brings out his phone and searches for the picture in his gallery. Hands the phone over to her. She looks though them andfound one picture that reminds her of an event that happened 4years ago**
Oyinda: Wait, wait, wait, where did you take this picture? it looks like someone i can remember.
Nonso: At Babasola Ladi mall.
Oyinda: This should be that Wing B side, abi?
Nonso: If i remember correctly, yes.
Oyinda: You were with someone that day?
Nonso: Why do you ask?
Oyinda: I’m trying to remember somethingjor. Did you by any chance put on a wine-colored shirt and sit on a table with a lady that wore a polka dot gown?
Nonso: No ooooo, it can't be...You were the Oyinda i met that day?
Oyinda: Yes, Nonso that his date did not show up.
**They both laugh**
Oyinda: Life can be funny ehn. So, we met 4 years ago and didn't recognize each other. I am shocked.
Nonso: Same here. I am happy, surprised, and surprised. To think, i regretted why i didn't get your number.
Oyinda: Awwwwn
Nonso: You were in arush home.
Oyinda: It's a long story. I will tell you someday.
**Weddings proceeding still going on in thebackground.The MC asks that the cake be cut. The couplestandsup to cut it. Photographs follows. Theweddingcomes to an end with Dance songs. Nonso's mum walks by their table.**
Nonso's mum: My children, how are you doing?
**They all greet her**
Nonso's mum: Una don chop? are you people ok?
Nonso: We have all eaten. Oyinda took take care of us.
**Oyinda taps Nonso's shoulder for his goofy response**
Nonso's mum: Oyinda, it seems your mum is looking for you.
Oyinda: Haaa, ok ma, let me goan meet her. Nonso, we will talk later, right?
Nonso: Sure.
**Oyinda proceeds tomeet her mum**
Remi: Gee, how far? you don ready to move?
Nonso: If you say make we dey go now, no wahala. Make i follow mumsy talk say i don dey comot.
**Nonso bids hismum goodbye. Remi and Nonso exits theparty heading to their houses. On their way, they encounter a policecheckpoint. The policeman leading the checkpoint flags them to slow down**
Remi: Wetin these ones want na?
Nonso: Abeg, no talk. Let me handle it. Hope sey you no carry any contraband
Remi: Na just cigarette dey my hand.
Nonso: Ask your girls ooo.
Remi: Babes, hope nothing jiggy dey una hands.
**The ladies respond telling him No. The policeman approaches their vehicle**
Policeman: My Oga, good evening.
**Nonso responds**
Policeman: Can i see your driving license? where are you guys coming from?
**Nonso hands over his licence to the policeman**
Nonso: Oga, we are coming from a wedding **shows him thesouvenir from the wedding**
Policeman: Make i carry this one dey go?
Nonso: Oga, no ooo.
**They both laugh. Thepoliceman returns Nonso's license.**
Policeman: You guys should drive safely.
**They drive off continuing their journey.**
Episode 7 - Better half of me
Nonso sits on his chair in the dinning, realising he has been awayfrom a relationship for quite sometime. He recollects his disastrous relationship with his ex, Alero Amadi.
Alero Amadi: Babe **She calls out from thekitchen**, where is the Spaghetti i kept in the fridge?
Nonso: Which one? **he feigns ignorance**
Alero Amadi: The same one i bought last night and i said i will warm this morning when i wake up?
Nonso: Oh, that one? i have eaten it oo. Sorry babe.
Alero Amadi: Ooooooooo, babe, no na, you should have told me.
**Nonso comes to hug her to apologize**
Nonso: I will buy another one for you, find something else to eat.
Alero Amadi: I have heard you, i will cook indomie. Babe, i have class by 11am today.
Nonso: No problem, i will drop you at your campus.
**Alero gets ready for school while Nonso waits for her in the car. She joins thecar and off to her school. Alero Amadi schools in the prestigious university of Lagos as a student of Mass communication. **
Nonso: So, babe, when next will i be seeing you?
Alero Amadi: Awwwwn, so cute, i know you will be missing me.
Nonso: Talk jor.
Alero Amadi: I think i should be free from lectures this weekend. So, i will come on Friday.
Nonso: Alright, i have a surprise waiting for you till you come.
Alero Amadi: Babe, really? Tell me na
Nonso: I can't tell you until you come on Friday
Alero Amadi: No problem. Just know that if it is one of those your jokes, i will do my own back.
Nonso: Let Friday come na.
Alero Amadi: Okay babe. Take care **She kisses him on the cheek**
**Alero walks into her own hostel. There shemeets her friend who were hailing her because of her return from her boyfriend's place. She gets a text on WhatsApp from her sugar daddy Alhaji Danladimeji "Sweetie, i will be coming to Lagoson friday. Meet me atProtea hotel". **
Alero: Which kain man be this na? **She responds to the text with "ok"**
**On Thursday evening, Alero calls Nonso."
Alero Amadi: Hey baby
Nonso: How are you doing?
Alero Amadi: Wo, i am stressed from this school matter.
Nonso: Sorry my love. It will soon be over.
Alero Amadi: So, babe, i won't be able to come tomorrow. My uncle that stays in Abuja is coming to Lagos, and he needs me to come see him to collect some items for my parents.
Nonso: It's fine my love. We can always see another time.
Alero Amadi: Can i come over today?
Nonso: Sure. Where are you?
Alero Amadi: Can you come pick me in my hostel?
Nonso: Babe, i will let you know as soon as i am done here.
**Nonso comes to pick Alero and they both go to his house.**
Alero Amadi: Babe, where is my surprise?
Nonso: Be calming down na.
Alero Amadi: Show me na.
Nonso: Ooya, close your eyes. **Nonso brings out a silver bracelet in a box to her**, you can open them.
Alero Amadi: Awwwwn, my baby **she kisses him** i love you baby.
Nonso: I love you too.
**They both continue the steamy momentandend up making love on the bed. They cuddle and sleep off afterwards. Nonso wakes up with a suspicious feeling with the need to check Alero's phone. Prior to this, hehas never it done. He unlocks her phone, checks her WhatsApp,sees the Alhaji's name and the address of thehotel he asked her to come visit him. Suddenly, he remembershe saw the address onhis bolt receipt. Then hesaid to himself, well it canbe her uncle. So, hedrops thephone to sleep back.
**
**The next morning, Alero prepares to go seethe man**
Alero Amadi: Babe, i am going back to school. From there, i will go and see my uncle.
Nonso: it's ok. Take care.
**Alero leaves to her school while Nonso prepares to go to work. Nonso comes to meet a client in Protea hotel. During theirmeeting, he receives a payment notification from Bolt on his card bearing the same location he is. He carries on with hismeeting with the client. He steps outbriefly to speak to the receptionist so as to makereservations for the client and their entourage. Suddenly, hesees Alero in a short miniskirt and a revealing top walking with the man assumed to be her uncle whose hands his wrapped around her waist as they come out of the lift. Their eyes lock for some seconds. You could see theguilt written all over Alero's face. Nonso continues with his discussion with the receptionist. Feeling distraught, hewent back to meet his clients and they continue their meeting.As soon as they weredone, hegoes through his email to check through each bolt receipts, hesees the same address she usually comes. He goesback to his WhatsApp to match those days with their conversations.**
Nonso: Jesus, Alero has ruined me **feeling sad**. There's nothing i have not done for this girl
**Nonso goes through each chat with the boltdays, they weremet with lies about her going to see her uncle. He leaves for his house. Nonso goes home, hadhis shower and brings out the whiskey in hisbar. Feeling sad and disappointed, Alero's call came in.**
Alero: Nonso, please i can explain.
Nonso: What do you want to explain? You have constantly lied to me.
Alero: I’m sorry.
Nonso: What i have done to deserve this hurt you have done to me?
Alero: **crying over the phone** please let me explain myself, please, please, i am sorry.
Nonso: Every time you told me you were going to see your uncle; this is what you were doing? You looked me in the eyes, telling me you love me and putting a knife through my heart while you lied to me.
Alero: Nonso, please **she continues to cry**
Nonso: I don't hate you. It is myself i hate. you give your heartto someone and they choose to mess it up. See please don't call me anymore, don't text me as well. **hesobs**
**Nonso ends thecall. Alero continues to call his number, Nonso rejects it as they come to his phone. He drinks till hefeels wasted, then proceeds to sleep. **
**As the night grew darker, Nonso's mind wandered through a cloud of confusion and heartache. His emotions were a tangledmess, torn between love and betrayal. He couldn't fathom how someone he trusted, someone he loved with all his heart, could deceive him so deeply.Alero, on the other hand, was consumed by guilt and remorse. Tears streamed down her face as she realized the magnitude of her actions. She had hurt the person she cared about themost, andnow she was left with nothing but regret. Nonso's phone continued to ring incessantly, each call a painful reminder of the shattered trust. He couldn't bring himself to answer, knowing that itwould only reopen the wounds.
Instead, hechose to drown his sorrows in alcohol, seeking solace in thenumbness it provided. As thealcohol coursed through his veins, Nonso's exhaustion finally overpowered him. He stumbled to his bed, his thoughts still plagued by memories of the lies and deceit. Sleep claimed him, but it offered no respitefrom theturmoil within his heart. Days turned into weeks, and Nonso tried hisbest to move forward. He distanced himself from the pain, focusing on rebuilding the shattered pieces of his life. Yet, deep down, thehurt lingered, a constant achethat reminded him of the love he had lost. Alero, unable to let go of her guilt, made countless attempts to reach out to Nonso. Each rejected call and unanswered message served as a painful reminder of the consequences of her actions. She knew she had caused irreparable damage, and she longed for a chance tomake amends.
Time passed, and wounds slowlybegan to heal. Nonso, though scarred, found strength within himself to forgive. He realized that harboring resentment and anger would only imprison him in the past. With a heavy heart, he decided to meet Alero one last time, to find closure and say his finalgoodbyes.
They met in a quiet cafe, the air heavy with the weightof their emotions. Alero's eyes were swollen from endless tears, and Nonso'sface carried the burden of heartbreak. As they sat across from each other, their silence spoke volumes.**
**Nonso finally broke the silence, his voice filled with a mix of sadness and acceptance**
Nonso: Alero, what we had was beautiful, but it's time for us to let go. We can't change the past, butwe can choose how we move forward.
Alero: **nodded, tears welling up in her eyes once again** "I am so sorry, Nonso. I never wanted to hurt you. I was lost and made a terrible mistake. I will always regret it.
**Nonso reached out and gently held Alero's hand, offering her a small smile**
Nonso: I believe you, Alero. But we both need to find our own paths now. It's time for us to heal and find happiness within ourselves.
**With a final moment of shared understanding, they parted ways. Itwasn't an easy farewell, but it was necessary for their own healing and growth. Theywalked away from each other, carrying the lessons learned and the scars that would forever remind them of their past. And as life moved on, Nonso and Alero eventually found their own peace.
The pain of the past slowly faded, making way for new beginnings and the hope of a brighter future. They both learned that forgiveness is a journey, and sometimes, letting go is the only way to truly find happiness once again.**
Chapter 8: We are almost there
Nonso and Oyinda became really close, calling and texting each other day and night. This helped rekindle the bond they had during their childhood years and leads to a romantic one between them.
**In Nonso's House. Nonso is sitting on the couch, lost in thought. His mum enters, carrying a tray of vegetable leaf. **
Nonso's Mum: **placing the tray on thetable** Nonso, you've beenquiet all day. What's on your mind?
Nonso: **sighs** It's Oyinda, Mum. I think I'm in love with her.
Nonso's Mum: **smiling** That's wonderful, dear. Oyinda is a lovely girl. Have you told her how you feel?
Nonso: Not yet. I'm not sure how she feels about me. And then there's her ex, Seyi. I don't want to complicate things for her.
Nonso's Mum: **sitting down beside him** Love is always a bit complicated, Nonso. But you should follow your heart. Oyinda deserves to be happy, and so do you.
Why don't you invite her out and talk to her about it?
Nonso: **nods** You're right, Mum. I'll call her and set up a meeting.
**He calls Oyinda to ask if she was ok to meet, as it was an urgent situation.**
Nonso: **phone rings. Oyinda picks up** Hey dear, how are you doing?
Oyinda: I'm fine, trying to round up an assignment i have been working on for a while.
Nonso: That's nice. Is it ok we meet at a cafe? I have something important to discuss with you.
Oyinda: That's fine. So where?
Nonso: You know that one i always tell you about?
Oyinda: The Lucia?
Nonso: Yes. Would 4pm tomorrow work for you?
Oyinda: That's fine. I'll be there
Nonso: I'd see you tomorrow. Take care.
Oyinda: You too **Call ends**
**The next day in a cozy café owned by the Ifueko, a popularbusiness tycoon in Lagos**
Nonso: **Sitting at a corner table, nervously fidgeting with his coffee cup, looks up as Oyinda enters** Oyinda, over here!
Oyinda: **Smiling, walks over and sits down** Hi, Nonso. It's good to see you. You sounded a bit serious on the phone. What's up?
Nonso: **Takes a deep breath** Oyinda, there's something I need to tell you. It's been on my mind for a while now.
Oyinda: **Curious** What is it, Nonso?
Nonso: **Looks directly into her eyes** Oyinda, I have feelings for you. I've liked you for a long time, and I want to be more than just friends.
Oyinda: **Eyes widening, then softening** Nonso, I... I don't know what to say. This is unexpected.
Nonso: **Quickly** If you don't feel the same, I understand. I just couldn't keep it to myself any longer.
Oyinda: **Reaches out and takes Nonso's hand** Nonso, this is actually perfect timing. I just got out of a very dark relationship. It was painful, but being around you has been alight in my life.
Nonso: **Squeezes her hand gently** I'm so sorry you went through that, Oyinda. You deserve so much better.
Oyinda: **Smiles** And I think I might have found it with you, Nonso. You make me feel safe and happy. I want to explore this with you if you're willing.
Nonso: **Smiling broadly** I'm more thanwilling, Oyinda. Let's take this step together.
Oyinda: **Nods** Yes, together. To a brighter and happier chapter in our lives.
**They both smile, holding hands, feeling thewarmth of their new beginning**
**Scene ends with Nonso and Oyinda talking animatedly, thecafé filled with a hopeful and joyous atmosphere. Nonso returns home, his facebeaming with happiness. His mum is waiting in thekitchen.**
Nonso's Mum: **seeing his expression** So, how did it go?
Nonso: **grinning** She feels the same way, Mum. We're going to give this a chance.
Nonso's Mum: **hugging him** I’m so happy for you, Nonso. You two deserve all the happiness in the world.
Nonso: Thank you, Mum. For everything.
**They share a tender moment, knowing that love has found its way into Nonso’s life.**
**In Nonso and Oyinda's homes. Both arewatching theevening news.**
**News Anchor: **onTV** Tragic news from Lagos today. A gang of notorious armed robbers attacked a popular bank, leaving several dead, including a young man identified as Seyi Njoku. Authorities are investigating the incident...
Nonso: **staring at the TV in shock** Oh my God..
Oyinda: **covering her mouth in shock, tears trickle down her eyes** Seyi...
**Nonso calls Oyinda regarding whathe saw in the news, and tries to console her knowing the history they had, even if it wasn'tall that a good experience for her. With the drama surroundingSeyi's death the past couple of weeks, and thetoll it has taken on her, Oyinda didn't let it affect her work. She has been working very hard,meeting deadlines, delivering her KPI, which caught theattention of theMD of Lily Pro, who then decided to reward her.**
** A sleek office inLilyPro Limited. Oyinda sits across from theHR Manager and the MD.**
HR Manager: Oyinda, thank you for coming in. We have some exciting news to share.
MD: **smiling** Oyinda, you've shown exceptional performance and leadership. We are pleased to promote you to Commercial Director for the West African Division.
Oyinda: **beaming** Thank you so much! This is an incredible opportunity. HR Manager: You've earned it, Oyinda. We look forward to seeing your continued success in this new role.
Oyinda: **shaking their hands** I won't let you down. Thank you again!
**She chats Nonso's to share thegood news**. He sends a champagne glass emoji** Nonso: To new beginnings and incredible achievements.
Oyinda: To us and the amazing journey ahead.
Nonso: I'm so proud of you, Oyinda. And I'm so glad we’re together for this next chapter.
Oyinda: **smiling** Me too, Nonso. We're almost there.
Chapter 9: ...even darkness serves a purpose
Nonso and Oyinda sit quietly in their living room, the weight of Seyi's death palpable in the air.
Nonso: **softly** Oyinda, I can't imagine what you're feeling right now.
Oyinda: **tearfully** It's... complicated, Nonso. Seyi was a partof my past, a painful part.
Nonso: **nodding understandingly** I'm here for you, Oyinda. Whatever you need. Oyinda: **squeezing his hand** Thank you, Nonso. Your support means everything to me.
**Oyinda spends days revisiting memories of her relationship with Seyi, moments of joy tainted by fear and abuse. She struggles with conflicting emotions as she processes his sudden death, trying to make sense of their tumultuous history.**
Oyinda: **looking atold photos, speaking softly** Seyi, you were part of my journey. Despite everything, I never wanted this for you.
**Scenes flash through Oyinda's mind, times when she felt trapped, isolated, and afraid. She wrestles with guilt over her relief mixed with sorrow atSeyi's tragic end. Nonso remains a constant source of strength for Oyinda, offering unwavering support and understanding as she navigates through her complex emotions.**
Nonso: **holding Oyinda as she cries** It's okay to feel conflicted, Oyinda. You don't have to figure this out alone.
Oyinda: **finding solace in his embrace** Thank you, Nonso. For being here, for listening.
**In theaftermath ofSeyi's death, Oyinda finds herself drawn to advocacy work for survivors of abuse. She channels her pain intopurpose, using her voiceto raise awareness and support others in similar situations.**
Oyinda: **speaking at a supportgroup** Seyi's passing has reminded me of the importance of speaking out and breaking the cycle of abuse. We can turn our pain into power.
Abusive relationships are tricky and, just as a fish doesn't knowthat it is wet, we often don't see the subtle markers for abuse in a relationship, because we are in it. Further, relationships fill our needs, and when our needs are being met, we don't necessarily have an imperative to look at how they are being met. If you are being abused by your partner, you may feel confused, afraid, angry and/or trapped. All of these emotions are normal responses to abuse. You may also blame yourself for what is happening. But no matter what others might say, you are never responsible for your partner’s abusive actions. Dating abuse is not caused by alcohol or drugs, stress, anger management, or provocation. It is always a choice to be abusive.
Holding abusers accountable sends a message to others that abuse of any kind will not be tolerated in our community. Unfortunately, there are still many barriers to justice in the criminal justice system, and when professionals do not
understand the dynamics of domestic violence, it can make it difficult to adequately identify and prosecute abusers. In addition, many women cannot rely on the criminal justice system due to institutional barriers, including discrimination or homophobia. Therefore, it is important for us to hold abusers accountable on an individual level as well. Do not blame the survivor. Teach your children that violence is never the answer to a problem, and that controlling another person is wrong.
Here's the thing: It all comes back to us, to our responsibility and accountability. But, in this case, it comes back to responsibility to ourselves and accountability to ourselves. Instead of just riding the wave, if we choose to mindfully examine the nature of our relationships and make a determination of what is acceptable and not acceptable to us, of what feeds us, rather than bleeds us, then we are living, and loving, authentically and with mindful awareness.
Support Group Member: **nodding in solidarity** Thank you, Oyinda. Your courage gives us hope.
**Nonso and Oyinda lean on their faith in Godas they navigate through grief and healing. They attend church services together, finding solace in prayer and scripture.** Nonso: **reflecting inprayer** Lord, give us strength and wisdom as we walk through this journey. Help us to find peace in Your guidance.
Oyinda: **finding comfort** Amen. God has been our anchor, Nonso. He's guiding us through every step.
Epilogue: A bolt of Lightning
Months pass, and Nonso and Oyinda continue to support each other through life's ups and downs. They celebrate small victories, share moments of laughter, and cherish their growing bond, knowing that their faith in God sustains them. They thought to host a family thanksgiving, thanking God for life and their wonderful families.
Nonso: **raises his glass to make a toast** To resilience and growth, even in the face of darkness.
Oyinda: **raising her glass** To finding strength in vulnerability, and to our future together, guided by His grace.
**Everyone raises their wine cups, cheers to the good life. Thebackground music continues, "Brymo – Adedotun, for you, Olanrewaju & Market Square, Burna Boy - Alone, the atmospherefilled with merry feeling here and there A lot of food to eat and drinks as well. Children from their extended families running and playing round the house. **
**On a warm Saturday afternoon, in Lakowe resorts, Nonso and Oyinda sit hand in hand by the lakeview, watching thesunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.The wind blowing across thelake gently lap at their feet, a soothing rhythm thatmatches the peace they feel within. Love.**
Nonso: **smiling at Oyinda** Look how far we've come, Oyinda. From darkness to this moment of peace.
Oyinda: **leaning intoNonso's embrace** Yes, Nonso. Our journey has been challenging, but it brought us here, together, stronger, with God's guidance. Nonso: **softly** I love you, Oyinda. Thank you for letting me be a part of your life.
Oyinda: **gazing intoNonso's eyes, her own filled with love** And I love you, Nonso. You've shown me what true support and unconditional love mean, guided by our faith.
**As they stand together, surrounded by thebeauty of nature and thepromise of a new day, Nonso and Oyinda know that their love has weathered storms and emerged stronger. They areready to face thefuture, hand in hand, knowing that even darkness serves a purpose to illuminate thepath to love, healing, and happiness, guided by their unwavering faith in God.**