Boys With Toys

Boys With Toys #9

Happy Valentine’s Day, people! And happy birthday, KKN.

Have fun reading this Valentine episode. Unfortunately, I would be absent for a while. Guest posts will continue.

So enjoy and please, share this across social media. It’s just once click and it’s done. and yes, talk to me about it in the comment section.

Make love and not war!

Thanks.

 

Read Previous Episodes and Episode Eight

Bankole was beginning to hate his boss, Mr. Duro. The man was a taskmaster and particularly had it in for him. He often loaded him with work that wasn’t under his area of specification and didn’t understand the use of an email to pass messages. He would either call him or ask to see him to get information or results over projects in person. This particular afternoon, he wanted to see photo concepts for their March magazine issue which he ordered Bankole to work on just three days before. The assignment had kept Bankole awake all night. He prayed the man approved it.

β€œOga is inside,” Mr. Duro’s secretary informed Bankole as he got to the man’s office. The girl looked annoyed, like she would rather be elsewhere.

Bankole knocked and entered. Mr. Duro raised his eyes from his laptop and looked at him.

β€œHello, Banky.”

β€œGood afternoon, sir.”

β€œYou got what I want?”

Bankole walked to him and handed a folder which he dumped aside.

β€œI’ll go through it later. You may leave.”

Bankole made a turn for the door.

β€œSo how are you spending Valentine’s?”

Bankole stopped. The question was odd, coming from him.

β€œI’m ehm… going for that Smush party.”

β€œOh. Everyone in Lagos seems to be going. You’ll be with your girlfriend?”

β€œYes, sir.”

β€œYou kids should have fun.”

Bankole faced the door again. When he touched the handle, he heard the man’s voice one more time.

β€œI hope my wife didn’t strip naked at her last photoshoot with you?”

Bankole almost choked on air. He stopped, breathed in and steered his feet to face the man.

β€œYour wife?” he asked.

β€œYes, my wife. Angela.”

β€œShe’s…your wife?”

Mr. Duro made a sound like a scoff. β€œLike you didn’t know.”

β€œNo…” Bankole choked. β€œNo, sir.”

β€œShe’s my wife.”

Bankole, at this point, just wanted to dissolve into the air.

β€œLeave.”

He hurried out, perspiring. He didn’t wait a second in the area. He left the floor and the entire building as if chased by the wind. He only caught his breath when he got to the parking garage. As he was about getting into his car, he heard a familiar female voice speaking to someone in agitation. Training his ears, he discovered it was Ruky. She sounded on the verge of tears. He turned around and saw her standing beside her car; she was on the phone. He got into his car and turned on the engine. He was about putting the car into gear when he saw her head resting over the hood of the car and her body shuddering.

He became torn between whether to drive off or find out what was wrong with her. He could have easily taken the former option but she had seen him already. He didn’t want to come off as ungentlemanly.

He killed his engine, got out of his car and walked to her.

β€œRukayat?”

She made no answer.

β€œRuky?” His hand touched her shoulder and she looked up.

β€œBanky?”

She was crying as he had suspected.

β€œWhat’s wrong?”

She gave a shake of her head but turned and sought comfort on his shoulder. Bankole patted her back to calm her, then opened her door and helped her into the driver’s seat.

β€œGuy problems?” he asked.

She reached for some tissue from a Kleenex box behind the car and blew her nose.

β€œOn fucking Valentine’s Day! Geez! You men are so heartless!”

β€œHe cheated?”

β€œNo. That would have been better, at least I would have known it was another woman.”

β€œOkay. So what’s worse than a cheating man?”

β€œA shallow man! A mommy’s boy!”

β€œYou want to talk about it?”

She hesitated.

β€œIt’s okay if you don’t want to….”

β€œI’m not from a rich family,” she revealed. β€œAnd right now, I’m struggling, Banky. I won’t lie. I’m the breadwinner in my family. Everyone relies on me. Okay, so my guy came into my life like six months ago and kind’a helped my financial situation a bit. But the problem is that his family hates me because I’m not up to their level. Shey you get?”

Bankole nodded. He felt like he was walking down memory lane.

β€œThis car you see me always pose with is not my own. It belongs to him. In short, I’m not the girl you think I am.”

Bankole liked her brutally-honest persona. One would never know she had this side to her. Being the company’s stylist, she was always on top of her game with her appearance. No one ever looked beyond that to see this side she was revealing.

β€œBut that’s not the issue. This guy just woke up this morning of all the days in the world and decided that we should break up. Today! On Valentine’s Day! Haba! Who does that to somebody?” She pursed her lips together but they shook in a despondent sob. Bankole took her hand to console her.

β€œAnd he’s even asking for the car back. Imagine. He has three cars o!”

Bankole didn’t know what to tell her, so he held her hand until she calmed down considerably.

β€œYou love him?”

β€œI don’t know jor. We’ve been together only six months. But it’s all good. A girl’s gotta move on.”

β€œYeah. You have to.”

β€œWhat is paining me now is all the guys I turned down that would have shown me a good time today.” She hissed. β€œMy Val will just be rubbish!” She hissed again. β€œI’ll just go to that Smush party, get drunk and have a one night stand with any guy that asks.”

β€œFara bale.”

β€œKini? Take what easy? In short, now-now-now. I’ll take this car to his house and smash the windscreen in front of him. After he has kpansh me finish, he wants to clean mouth and not pay his dues. He hasn’t seen anything!”

β€œAh. You women sef…”

β€œBanky, just forget that thing.”

Bankole let go of her hand.

β€œThanks, hon and um…you have some lipstick on your shirt. Sorry.”

β€œHa, this babe. You want to put me in trouble.”

β€œIf madam fights you just come over to mine,” Ruky teased. Bankole smiled.

She started her car and he walked back to his. They both drove out of the parking and waved goodbye to each other as their cars took opposite routes. Bankole headed straight for home. He was famished when he got in and was glad that lunch was ready and waiting. Not quite used to eating at a dining table, he chose the bedroom and had lunch with Beatrice there. It was a meal of peppered yam porridge with smoked fish.

β€œThat’s how you didn’t tell me happy valentines,” Beatrice accused as they began eating.

β€œToday is Valentine’s Day?” he held a pokerface.

She eyed him.

β€œI didn’t know o.”

Her countenance changed and remained sour for the rest of the meal. He acted as though he didn’t notice until he was done and his empty dish put away. He waited for her to be through as well but she left her meal halfway.

β€œHappy Valentine’s baby,” he smiled and took her hand.

β€œLeave me, abeg.”

β€œCome nau.” He pulled her close and had her sit on his laps.

β€œSo you thought I forgot.”

β€œDidn’t you?” she crossed her arms.

β€œClose your eyes.”

β€œFor what?”

β€œJust close your eyes jor.”

And just like that, the frown on her face lost its bearing. Her crossed arms also dropped to her sides as her eyes went shut. He put his hand beneath the bed and pulled out a small gift box.

β€œNow, open your eyes.”

She lifted her eyelids and grinned at the first sight of the box in his hand.

β€œYou got me something?”

β€œOpen it.”

With the excitement of a little kid, she unwrapped the box to reveal a gold jewelry set that brought instant tears to her eyes. Her hand went to her mouth to curtail her emotion.

β€œIt’s so beautiful.”

β€œYou like it?”

She answered him with a warm squeeze.

β€œRemember I used to tell you that when I eventually make it I’ll spoil you silly?”

β€œYes.”

β€œWell, I’ve just started.”

β€œThank you, Banky mi.”

Taking her hand, he laid her on the bed and leaned over her.

β€œI’m sorry I didn’t get you anything,” she said. β€œI’m mad broke.”

β€œI wasn’t expecting anything from you, Bea. Just allow me spoil you.”

He kissed her hand. β€œSo what did we miss this week?”

It was an invitation to make love to her but Beatrice didn’t seem quite in the mood. She sat up instantly as she recalled something.

β€œI have good news!” she said in a squeak and reached for her phone somewhere on the bed while he laid his back to rest.

β€œAn email I was expecting came in this afternoon. See!”

She passed her phone to him. On the screen was an opened email and it was a job offer to her.

β€œYou got another job?”

β€œYes!”

β€œWhere?”

β€œHere, in Lagos. At Muri Okunola. It’s a small consultancy firm.”

β€œReally?” His tone didn’t match hers. β€œHow and when did all this happen?”

Tucking stray strands of her weave behind her ears, she replied, β€œA colleague from my old job referred me to one guy at the firm. I went to see him on Wednesday and I got the job.”

β€œI didn’t know you went out on Wednesday.”

β€œI was going to tell you when the guy called and asked me to come but I forgot. I went there and was given the job there and then but I was waiting for this email to come in so that it’ll be a surprise to you. So, ta-da!”

Bankole propped himself up on both elbows. β€œWait, you went to see the guy and he offered you the job just like that.”

β€œYep.”

β€œJust like that. You didn’t write an application or…”

β€œNo, he was impressed with my CV and we spoke for just few minutes and he said, β€˜hired’.”

β€œOkay.”

β€œBoo-boo, what’s wrong? Why these questions?”

β€œNobody offers a beautiful girl like you a job just like that in this town.”

β€œWhat are you saying?”

β€œIt’s either you gave him something or he’ll get it later from you.”

β€œG-gave him something? What are you saying, Banky? That I gave him… what exactly?”

β€œI don’t know. I just know that you’re not taking the job. Does he know you’re pregnant?”

β€œNo. He doesn’t have to know.”

Bankole sat up fully. β€œHe doesn’t have to know. You hear yourself?”

β€œI need this job. I’m tired of staying at home already.”

β€œYou are not taking the job. Period.”

He scrambled out of the bed as she stared at him through moistened eyes.

β€œWhat’s your problem? First, it’s that I gave him something and now, I’m not supposed to work? Why are you doing like this, Banky?”

β€œBea, it’s simple. You are pregnant, so you can’t work. My money is enough for both of us.”

β€œI don’t have friends in Lagos o! And me, I can’t stay at home!” she screamed at him.

β€œFriends?” a sarcastic laugh escaped his lips. β€œWe’ll make friends together as a couple but if you want to occupy yourself, register at the gym down the street, stay at home and watch cable. It’s full bouquet.”

He made for the door and walked out.

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

The Smush party was exactly how Urena had described it would be. A classy crowd enlivened with the presence of celebrities filled the venue. It was held at a fancy but massive residential building that had featured in a couple of music videos. The place had an expansive exterior that was covered with partiers entertaining themselves with music, an unending flow of drinks and barbecued chicken from suya stands scattered about the place. Inside the building was another party enjoyed by a more conservative crowd. It was there Guru chose to sit himself. Urena had dragged him out of his house with his mother’s approval, kicking and screaming. He hated the loud music, the partiers and the environment entirely. As he sat in a corner as a mere observer, Monet came to him.

β€œHaving fun?”

She was wearing a piece he designed five years ago and he thought she looked absolutely gorgeous in it, even though she seemed over-dressed for the occasion. She was holding two glasses of champagne and offered him one but he declined. He didn’t drink at social events.

She sat beside him and was quiet for a second, both of them watching the people around them who had now become animated characters of children at a playground. There were mascots of famous superheroes and clowns that entertained them. Candy floss and ice-cream were in surplus; the kids were having fun.

β€œHope had a blast today at the mall,” Monet said. β€œYou should take her out more often. You’re like an elder brother to her now. She absolutely adores you.”

Guru narrowed his eyes on a little boy just ahead of them who was tugging at a girl’s hair unmercifully.

β€œSo when are you going to get laid, Roy?”

Guru looked at Monet.

β€œYeah, I’m asking you,” she said in her cockney accent. β€œYou’re twenty-eight, boy. Look around you, so many beautiful girls. Just pick one this night and pop that cherry,” she said, poking him with her finger.

He looked away.

β€œYou know you can use a condom, right? And even if you wanted to go bare, you couldn’t pass the disease to anyone. Your viral load is almost non-existent.”

A girl’s excited scream drew his eyes farther away from Monet.

β€œJust do it. Trust me, it’s better than wanking to porn videos of Asian women.” Monet snickered.

He wished her away and she got up.

β€œBe careful of Madu.” She blew a kiss and began to walk away. The train of her gown dragged across the sand as she went. The glasses of champagne fell to the ground at different points and he watched their contents spill and sip down to the shimmery beach sand beneath.

β€œHey, Roy!”

He blinked and came back to the real world. Urena was standing before him.

β€œCome, let’s go and eat chicken outside and dance.”

She took his hand. He wanted to protest but she made a frown. He let her drag him outside. They stepped out to louder music and the smell of barbecue in the air.

Not far from them, Bankole and Beatrice were sipping on drinks, sitting on bar stools at a makeshift bar table. Bankole was having a cocktail while Beatrice enjoyed chilled juice. They were not speaking to each other, following their fight earlier in the day. There had been another minor quarrel just before they came for the party which was about what Beatrice had chosen to wear. Bankole had held that it was too tight and short, and ordered her to wear something more decent. They argued over it and in the end, she settled for a pair of leggings and a top. He still didn’t approve of the top because of the way it pushed out her cleavage but he couldn’t get her to change her mind about it. That spat distanced them the more. Now, they shared that awkward silence where they were both too proud to apologize. Fortunately for Beatrice, someone she knew from way back recognized her and came over. After hugs and delightful girly-screams, Beatrice introduced the stranger to Bankole and asked permission to accompany her to say hi to Don Jazzy who had just made an appearance.

Bankole nodded and both girls disappeared into the crowd. He turned his attention elsewhere. There was a girl dancing alone in a corner. She had declined dancing with anyone and it was a shame because she was sexy and danced pretty well. He was going to entertain himself with her but a familiar voice called out to him.

β€œHey, Banky!” Ruky came by and gave him a hug that ended with a kiss on his cheek.

β€œHey, you!”

He admired her. She was stunning out of office clothes, wearing a red, mini gown that revealed much of her back and curved her bum perfectly. Her hair was worn down stylishly and cascaded over a pair of moderately-sized breasts that were not aided by a bra. He could see her nipples straining through the delicate material of the gown.

β€œEnjoying the party?” she asked.

β€œYeah. Can I get you a drink?”

β€œSure.”

Bankole demanded the attention of the barman and ordered her a cocktail.

β€œI hope I’m not encouraging you on your mission to get drunk and laid tonight.”

Ruky laughed and he noticed she was already tipsy.

β€œWhere’s your girlfriend?” she leaned towards his ear. They both had to raise their voices to be heard above the din of the party.

β€œSomewhere around with a friend.”

β€œI’d have loved to see her o.”

β€œShe’ll be back soon. So how did it go with your boyfie?”

Ruky hissed, pursing out luscious lips. β€œI went to return the car and you can’t believe that he was asking for shags, telling me one for the road. The way I designed the body of that car with the car key ehn.”

β€œWindscreen nko?”

β€œI didn’t see stone in the compound.”

Bankole laughed loudly.

Just then the music died. There was a general murmuring of complain from the crowd but Madu’s voice came up on the PA system and silenced them. Bankole stretched out his neck and saw him standing at the poolside. A small stage of some sort had been erected there.

β€œI hate this Madu ehn,” Ruky muttered.

β€œYou and a million others. And yet, see the mob that gathered.”

β€œHe’s so full of himself and he’s a complete agbaya. We went to the same school.”

β€œFor real?”

β€œYeah. He wasn’t popular then sef. Just one of those rich kids nobody sent.”

Madu was making an announcement neither Bankole nor Ruky were interested in.

β€œHere’s your drink, ma.” The barman pushed a cocktail glass towards Ruky. She pouted when she stared at it.

β€œYou didn’t put that tiny umbrella for me,” she carped.

β€œSorry, ma. We just ran out of them.”

β€œAwww.”

β€œTake mine,” Bankole offered, placing his umbrella into her glass.

β€œThanks, darling.”

Madu’s voice came on louder. β€œSo in case you’ve been wondering who Guru is, wonder no more! I specially invited him here. He’s a very private person so, it’s quite a privilege to have him around! You know, big boy tins!”

β€œHmm?” Bankole held a perplexed face at Madu’s utterances.

β€œLadies and gentlemen, introducing the guy behind the designs… Guru!”

The partiers looked around, mumbling to themselves. Somewhere in their midst, Urena had dragged Guru to the poolside and left him under bright lights and the attention of everyone.

β€œDude, show face nau!” Madu called him forward and Guru made a brief appearance with a short wave. He pushed his hands back into his pockets and disappeared instantly.

β€œNo mind am!” Madu joked. β€œNa shy guy! Ladies, feel free to engage!”

β€œInteresting,” Bankole muttered.

β€œWhat is?” Ruky asked.

β€œNothing. Just thinking out loud.”

β€œWe’re back!” Beatrice and her friend returned. β€œHey baby,” Beatrice added the moment she spotted Ruky.

β€œHad fun?” Bankole asked.

β€œOh my God! Don Jazzy is bae! He was with Ebuka too!” she squealed silently. β€œI took a photo!”

Bankole shook his head. β€œYou’re going to meet more of them, Bea. Na you go tire.”

She linked her hands with his. β€œBoo-boo, you didn’t introduce me.”

β€œOh, sorry.” Bankole apologized. β€œBea, this is Ruky, my colleague. Ruky, meet my girlfriend, Beatrice.”

β€œHi.” Both girls waved at each other and Beatrice turned to Bankole. β€œSo, I wanted to get us some chicken. You mind?”

β€œNo. Please, go and bring.”

β€œOkay.”

Beatrice went off with her friend again.

β€œAwww, she’s so cute,” Ruky complimented.

β€œThanks.”

β€œYou like big girls?”

He raised and dropped his brows in answer.

β€œBad boy. But what were you doing with that chick in that picture I saw in your phone? That one was lepa nau.”

β€œWho told you that was me?” Bankole asked. β€œYou only saw her face and what she was holding…”

β€œWhich was impressive and beautiful. Are you saying it’s not yours?”

Bankole let out a small cough. β€œLet’s change the topic, Ruky.”

β€œThat’s an admission right there.”

He made to reply her but stopped in a laugh. β€œSeriously, let’s gist something else.”

Luckily for him, Ruky had a ton of office gossip at the tip of her lips. As she drank away, she opened the closets of their colleagues and let skeletons out.

Inside the building, Guru was alone again, although he now got stares from people who had previously ignored him. One of them came to him.

β€œHi Guru.” She grinned.

β€œHi.”

β€œCan I take a selfie with you?”

β€œUm…okay.”

β€œI am a mad fan! Can you see what I’m wearing?”

He looked at her from top to bottom. She had one of his designs on.

β€œYes. Thanks.”

β€œI’ve always wondered who you were. I’m so glad to finally meet you. Sorry about Monet. We’ll all miss her.”

β€œYeah.”

The girl sat beside him, struck a pose and took a picture with her phone.

β€œThank you!”

β€œSure thing.”

Grinning like a shark, she ran off just as Urena returned.

β€œI want to go home,” Guru told her.

β€œJust when the party started banging. Haba, Roy.”

β€œGuru, my man!” someone passing by, hailed. Guru gave a half-nod at the guy. He didn’t know him.

β€œPhyno is performing outside,” Urena informed. β€œLet’s go and watch.”

β€œDo I look like I understand a word in Igbo?”

β€œOkay, ehm… Want to drink?” her hand was extended to him. She had a plastic cup in it.

β€œYou know I don’t drink at parties.”

β€œFor fuck’s sakes, Roy! Just make my night.”

Urena didn’t swear often. Whenever she did, she was on nerves. Guru felt bad that he had upset her. To make nice, he took the drink offered.

β€œThanks.”

She still looked upset. He apologized. β€œI’m sorry, Ure. You know me and parties. And the loud music just gets to me.”

β€œMaybe we can go upstairs. The VIP rooms are there and there’s no music.”

He only wanted to go home but fearing that he would hurt her feelings further, he obliged and followed her out to a lobby that led up a flight of stairs. A bouncer stopped them halfway.

β€œGuru.” Urena pointed a finger at Guru and they were let through.

β€œJust like that?” he asked.

β€œI think sometimes you underestimate the status of your name. Start getting used to it.”

They came to the second floor but continued to the third via another flight of stairs. There, a second bouncer was waiting.

β€œAgain?” Guru mumbled.

β€œVVIP.”

β€œOh.”

β€œGuru.” Urena pointed again and just as before, they got a pass.

β€œWait, how come you know this place already?”

β€œYou think I’m like you, sitting downstairs and boring myself to death? And just in case you didn’t know, you are like the guest of honor or something like that. Madu hardly ever introduces anyone.”

β€œMadu hates my guts.”

Urena said nothing. They were on the third floor and true to her words the sound of music was subdued there. A door opened and Patoranking emerged from it with a couple of friends. They walked past them.

β€œLet’s take their room. I heard there’s food and enough shacks in every VVIP lounge. And that you can ring the kitchen and order anything.”

β€œWait, where does Madu get the money for these parties?” Guru asked as he followed Urena on.

β€œSponsors,” she replied.

They got to the door Patoranking had materialized from and opened it. They walked into a bedroom turned private lounge. The place was unoccupied. A table laden with champagne, chocolate and finger foods invited them over and Urena dragged Guru in.

β€œIsn’t this way better than downstairs?”

β€œNow you’re talking,” Guru answered.

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

Ruky had long abandoned Bankole, whisked away by some guy who came by and claimed her waist possessively and planted a steaming kiss on her lips. Bankole remained in his position and ignored a girl who had come up to the bar and was seeking his attention via subtle means.

Beatrice came back with the promised chicken. She was alone this time.

β€œWhere’s your colleague?” she questioned.

β€œGone.”

She tugged him towards her. β€œBanky mi… I’m sorry about our fight earlier today.”

β€œIt’s okay, Bea. Me sef I’ve forgotten the whole thing. So, let’s go home and…” he whispered something into her ear that got her giggling.

β€œOkay. But can I go and say hi to Banky W?”

Bankole lost his smile. β€œYou want to famz all the celebs in this party? Just now I saw you hugging Patoranking.”

β€œBoo-boo, it’s Mr. Capable fa. How can I see him face to face and not say hi?”

Banky W was her favorite artist. She had mad love for his music.

β€œI told you you’ll see more of them, Bea. My line of job gives me access to them. Just on Monday I was in KCee’s house for a private photoshoot. I’m now a celebrity photographer and I don’t think my girlfriend should be a groupie. It’s embarrassing.”

Beatrice let out a sad face that touched him.

β€œOkay, just go.”

β€œNo…”

β€œSeriously, go.”

β€œYou’re sure?”

He nodded and she kissed him on the lips before dashing off. And as if cued, Ruky came back.

β€œWhat did I miss, handsome?”

β€œNothing.”

β€œAre you okay? You seem bored? Where’s our sugar spice?”

β€œOff with Mr. Capable.”

β€œEhya, pele. He always steals the ladies.”

β€œChicken?” Bankole offered the paper plate of chicken Beatrice had come with. Ruky took one.

β€œWant to dance?” she asked.

β€œNo.”

β€œWell, I do.”

Woju by Kiss Daniel was playing and she began to move her body to it. Bankole could tell she was high but felt it wasn’t his business. So far, she was behaving herself. He didn’t even complain when she moved in front of him and positioned herself before his bar stool to shake her backside provocatively at him. She was just a friend. He had never entertained fantasies of them being romantically involved.

β€œSo who was the guy that took you away earlier?” Bankole asked. She didn’t hear. She drew backwards until their bodies touched.

β€œWhat did you say?”

β€œThe guy that took you away earlier.”

β€œOh. Some guy I met last week at the mall. He’s married o. Imagine.”

Bankole held his tongue. It wasn’t his business.

Ruky continued dancing. The only problem now was that he could feel her body rubbing against his crotch. He did nothing to stop her, just merely leaned back and focused on the party. It was then he saw Beatrice looking their way. She was walking towards them but stopped and took another direction.

β€œRuky.” Bankole held Ruky’s waist and stood up. β€œGive me a minute.”

β€œYou’re leaving?”

β€œNo, I…”

β€œThere you are!” Ruky’s married friend appeared. β€œWhy did you run away?”

Before Ruky could give an answer to the guy, Bankole dashed off. He followed the direction Beatrice took, pushing through people as he went. He noticed she was leaving the venue. He caught up with her outside the gate.

β€œWhere are you going?”

β€œHome.”

β€œWhy?”

β€œYou’re asking me? Weren’t you the one rubbing your dick on your colleague?”

β€œRubbing my… whoa!” he laughed. β€œIs that what you saw?”

β€œYou were dirty-dancing with her.”

β€œI was not.”

β€œYou were!”

β€œNo, I wasn’t.”

Bankole noticed the bouncers at the gate watching them.

β€œYou’re just not a nice person. You were mean to me throughout today only to come here and be monitoring me like a child and allowing Miss. Bootylicious to be giving you nyash!”

Bankole let out his hands in innocence, although he wasn’t surprised at Beatrice’s outburst. She had the emotions of a teenager.

β€œI wasn’t dirty-dancing or even dancing with her. She is drunk and not thinking clearly.” A distracted glance towards his left revealed Ruky approaching with her man friend. She was laughing and staggering while the guy’s hand made itself at home on her bum.

β€œSee?” Bankole pointed. Ruky walked by without noticing them. The man led her down a tight street where cars were parked, that got darker as it stretched.

β€œCan we go back and enjoy the party or go home now?” Bankole suggested.

Beatrice’s anger seemed to have simmered down at this point. β€œThey’re handing out gift bags inside. I want to collect my own.”

β€œOkay. Go ahead.”

Beatrice turned back towards the gate but Bankole didn’t. His eyes had followed Ruky and her companion and he noticed the man was being indecent with her in the open, having pushed her over a car and was ravaging her body with his hands. At this juncture, Bankole knew it was his business to ensure that nothing nasty happened to her.

β€œBea, please go back in. I’ll come meet you.”

β€œWhere are you going?” Beatrice followed his eyes. β€œWhat do you want to do?”

β€œGo back in.”

Bankole made straight for the assault scene and he arrived there just as the man had opened the backdoor of his car and pushed Ruky in against her will. Bankole dove in-between them and dragged Ruky out. The man jabbed him with an elbow but Bankole held his feet and pulled Ruky away. She was more inebriated than he thought and had little cognizance of her environment.

β€œRuky?” he called gently as he led her away. He only got a mumble that came with tears down the sides of her face. She had no phone or purse with her and he knew it was useless asking. He crossed her over to the other side of his street were his car was parked and literally dragged her to it. He opened the backdoor and laid her in. She passed out straightaway. He shut the door, locked her in and went back in search of Beatrice whom he found stopping a cab.

β€œBea?”

She gave him one angry look and entered the vehicle.

β€œBeatrice!” he called.

The cab sped away.

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

Upstairs at the VVIP, Guru was having his own Ruky moment as his eyes began to dim for reasons he couldn’t explain. When he tried to think about it, his brain gave him a mishmash of images. Sweet sleep called to him and he couldn’t fight it. Urena was speaking in her usual manner with her mouth full but to him she sounded like she was warbling.

By careful means, he lowered himself down to the lounger he was seated on and shut his eyes in deep sleep.

Urena immediately stopped speaking and tapped him.

β€œRoy? Roy?”

There was no response. She got off the chair and looked about her as if she was expecting something else to happen. Subsequently, she hurried out of the lounge and made a phone call. In no time, Madu and a hunky guy appeared.

β€œHe’s out,” she said.

Madu opened the door and peeped. β€œGreat job, Urena.”

Urena didn’t smile. She looked like she was about to cry.

β€œI have something for you.” Madu bobbed his head at the guy who retrieved a brand new iPad from a sling bag he was carrying. He handed it to Urena.

β€œI don’t want it.”

β€œYou have earned it, darling,” Madu took the Ipad. β€œTake it. I know you want it.”

β€œWhat do you want to do with Guru?”

β€œNothing he can’t handle. Come on, have this.”

Urena took the iPad from him.

β€œNow, off you go.”

β€œPlease, don’t hurt him.”

β€œWe’ll be good to him. Get out of here.”

Urena turned around and faced the corridor but her heart was with Guru. If anything bad happened to him, she would never forgive herself.

Sally

Author. Screenwriter. Blogger

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80 Comments

  1. Kay Kitty says:

    Thanks sally for the birthday wish. you’re a darl.
    Lemme go and read!

    1. Sally says:

      πŸ˜‰

  2. salim says:

    Nice…but it just had to stop here???

    1. Sally says:

      was it short? this was like the longest episode i have written in months o

  3. kenny says:

    Urena y dint u say somting now,mayb tell Guru,he wunt forgiv u for this u know.

    1. Sally says:

      do you think she really had a choice?

  4. And here I was thinking Urena was a friend. Bankole should make up his mind already instead of pushing Bea. No khalid today? *pouting why na… Nob sorry Guruuuuu hmmm

    1. Sally says:

      Did you read episode 8? Khalid featured there o. check it out if you haven’t

  5. toyenlon says:

    Oh no, Madu is just a bad guy. I hope nothing bad happens to Guru o. Thanks Sally and happy val.

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks, Toyenlon!

  6. chibaby says:

    I hope they re not going to man rape guru ooooo? Beatrice is overdoing some things sef after all her misbehaving. Thanls sal & happy val.

    1. Sally says:

      Ha, she shouldn’t overdo? when she get fine boyfie like that?
      thanks, Chibaby

  7. Kemi says:

    Madu wants to set guru up as gay, Urena is a goat, Bankole still has to take a course on womanology 101. Sally is the best.

    1. Sally says:

      Haha! Banky sure needs to be schooled.
      Thanks a lot, Kemi, for always being here

  8. ugo says:

    Thanks for making my val. I missed Khadlid. This Madu no b beta pikin ooo. Can’t wait for d next read.

    1. Sally says:

      Hope you sha read episode 8. It was posted on Friday. Khalid featured there.
      Thank you for dropping a line!

  9. fola says:

    I wish you all the best in your project, Sally! Please, don’t take too long before you come back. I’ll miss you πŸ™
    I thought Urena was Guru’s true friend. And Guru was trying not to hurt her o. Chai! Na wa for Madu sef.
    Bea and Banky still have trust issues between them which they really need to sort out if they want to make their relationship work.
    Good job as usual. Well done!

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks, Fola
      I’ll try not to stay long
      Have a fab week ahead!

  10. temidayo says:

    Madu is jst arghhhhh!!!! Gud wrk sally. Kip it flowing. I will miss u during d brk, success in ur endeavour nd project.

    1. Sally says:

      Amen, Temidayo

  11. Phortunate says:

    Urena, you just dared d God’s and dug your grave….

    1. Sally says:

      *horror music playing in the background*

  12. AOS says:

    Haah Guru ooh, photos of him & diff gurlz scandal. This Bea nah waoh, well this their r/ship is just for a short time bcuz no trust anymur. Madu is just a big fool as usual….making fun out of people.

    Sally Lurv Happy Valz, enjoy ur trip & have fun ok.

    HAPPY VALZ 2 EVERYONE.

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks sweetheart!

  13. Uche says:

    This is what happens when trust is betrayed, Bankole is going to keep a suspicious leash on Bea for a very long time eventually she will get tossed considering she has tendencies to be infantile. I foresee Bankole and Ruky riding the bus to sin city.

    Hmmm Madu! The guy has evil tattooed on his forehead… But I think he will be the character that brings the most twists to this story.

    Kudos Sal.

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks Uche. Always looking through different eyes.
      God bless!

  14. jumes says:

    dat madu z just pure evil. feeling for guru already, poor him. Banky z just Banky. Bea shld chill for him. . . Looking forward to episode 10. Well done sally.

    1. Sally says:

      Awww, Jumes epi 10 will take a while before it comes. But it will
      Thanks!

  15. Noreen says:

    Well, whatever Madu intends doing…all that is in my mind is that Guru has HIV. Urena…smh

    1. Sally says:

      Lol! I hope it doesn’t get to that level of ‘doing’ o!

  16. sarah says:

    Monet warned Guru abt Madu but he ignored it, what more reason did Madu made him the guest of honour than that he has something bad install for him, I hope nothing happen to Guru. Thanks Sally and Happy Valentine to you too!

    1. Sally says:

      I don’t think Guru could have escaped this trap being that someone he trusted was used. Its unfortunate.
      Thank you for reading Sarah

  17. Olamide says:

    OMG! What does Madu want from Guru? I knew Bankole and Bea would have lots of trust issues. Oh Sally, please don’t take too long. I miss you already.
    Happy Valentine’s day everyone!

    1. Sally says:

      Thank you, Olaamide.
      Cheers!

  18. Ustyn says:

    Like i said yestrday the men are all wired together with women and cash,the women are lame and weak,Onsachi is desperate,Uju sharp bad girl,Ruky seem lose,Urena is so lame,Beatrice is just plain selfish and Mrs Angela is a Jezebel,in all they all made the story what it is.

    Happy valentine all
    Happy valentine Sally and thanks for such a lovely story,God bless you

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks a lot, Ustyn
      Always appreciate

  19. Madu the. Schemer, Urena the back-stabber, bea the drama queen; Banky the confused; Ruky the drunk and Guru the victim. Didn’t really miss Khal. Thanks for this beautiful valentine gift Sally. Cheers. Xx

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks, Luv!
      Nice tagging of the xters

  20. Leon says:

    Look at this BEATRICKS O!Drama queen make Banky come dey beg you,okwa ya?

    Choi! Why Guru?
    What’s wrong with Madu? As his name implies,he is truly ‘Madu ka anaya’.

    1. Sally says:

      Lol! You got that right!

  21. anthony says:

    Sigh… A bro decides to bend his rules so a supposed “FRIEND” doesn’t feel offended and look what happens. This life na pot of beans sha! Now its safe to assume Guru’s chance meeting with Urena was staged; yeah Madu seems that devious jare sote even imaginary Monet warned against him. Lemme wait n see what dirt he manufactures on Guru.
    And Beatricks better chill abeg. So she’s allowed to famz Mr. Capable and Don Jazzy; she seems to have a thing for celebs with BIG Heads sha, and Banky isn’t allowed to be a gentleman? like she has forgotten she’s still on probation sha, she’s not allowed to feel jealous for any reason o.

    1. anthony says:

      so i just noticed episode 8 now, someone needs to put Madu in his place abeg.

    2. Sally says:

      Your comment is so hilarious. She really likes big heads, I guess
      Thanks for reading, Anthony πŸ™‚

  22. Haleemah says:

    Bea is feeling that way coz of her betrayal of Banky. Everybody should just wise up abeg. Nice job Sally. Cheers!

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks, Haleemah
      Have a great week ahead!

  23. Rida says:

    I’m enjoying this Sally. Dunno why the comments are few sha. Abi people are not reading?
    And u said ur going away? Pls don’t stay long. Please!!!

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks, Rida, for enjoying my work. I promise I won’t stay long. Just have a a lot to do and blogging has to take aa break for me to put food on my table. Lol.
      As for the comments, worry not yourself dear. I am not breaking my head over them. People are reading and that’s what’s important. As a writer, I concentrate more on my work. If I write solely because people comment or not, it means I’ve lost focus. I write because I love to. Soon, my efforts will be rewarded; that’s what I’m working towards. All the same, I appreciate people like you who take time to drop a line. It means a lot!

  24. Dayo says:

    This Madu na goat. I just hope Guru will be okay.

    1. Sally says:

      i hope so too

  25. mary says:

    Ahhhhhhh!Sally pls b4 u go,just one last episode!!!!!!!!This Banky will fall in love with Ruky.I’m so sorry 4 my darling Guru.Sally u r d bomb!!!!!!!

    1. Sally says:

      i’ll give one more episode if you write us another sweet story?
      for how long nau πŸ™

  26. jessie says:

    Happy val.Guru and madu lets watch and c

    1. Sally says:

      take front row seat….

  27. adekola funmilola says:

    Bea is still given that long rope to pull just as long as that baby belongs to Banky! Madu biko am begging for ya life o, hmmmn bc Guru’s revenge will be worse o!

    1. Sally says:

      Thank you for reading!

  28. gbemmy says:

    Eewo, dis girl has played devil’s advocate,hope Guru won’t be hurt!

    1. Sally says:

      i do hope so too

  29. Sally Bonn says:

    Waoh finally updated my self from episode 1 to here now…this story is sth else…still trying to figure out my fave chatacter…thanks Sally…very good writer you are

    1. Sally says:

      Thank you, Sally. Glad to have you on this train.

  30. cleo says:

    Hmmmmmmmmm!!!!!!!!!!!!! This MAdu is wicked sha. Bea and Bankole be acting drama up and down. I still have a feeling that Bankole is not the father of the child. I might be wrong.

    Goodwork Sally. Cant wait to have you back

    1. Sally says:

      Thanks, dear Cleo

  31. pgent1 says:

    this is d worst form of betrayal,urena dey mad and i just got one more reason to hate madu

    1. Sally says:

      Yeah, friends betray worse than others

  32. lizzie says:

    This urena abi na urine is a backstabber.no disrespect to those who bear the name.just pissed at the character ni.haba she could av atleat talked to guru about the blackmail.I really feel for guru tho.madu is a pig.good job sally

  33. Sally says:

    Lizzie, thanks. Have a lovely week!

  34. znb says:

    Banky and ruky sitting on a tree, k.i.s…. That Madu is a bastard ooo, but I have a feeling he’ll get a taste of his own medicine too, if not soon. He reminds me of Bashorun from Novocaine knights. Fantastic job ma’am. Please don’t leave us hanging for too long.

    1. Sally says:

      I will be back this weekend, Znb. By God’s grace

  35. znb says:

    P.S I read your post about ghost readers, I promise to move out of that league. So help me God.

    1. Sally says:

      lol! okay, Znb

  36. Seye says:

    Madu, devious Madu. Blackmails and arm twists Ure just to get some dirt on Guru. How far he’ll go and what he’ll do is the major concern now.
    Banky and Bea, hmmmmmm. Maybe I’ll just watch and see how things pan out. I just think Banky is a young man whose persona is simple. Loves easily and doesn’t want people around him hurt.
    I’m stuck on this, like I am on any Sally story. Good work mami πŸ˜€

    1. Sally says:

      You’re right about Banky. i hope it doesn’t hurt him in the end, Thanks, Seye

  37. Temmy says:

    Okay wait a minute what is Beatrice feeling like? Some star or what I don’t just get it.
    And urena is a Bitch, how could she have done that to guru?

    1. Sally says:

      i wonder for the babe o. She has a boyfie who has her time, that’s why

  38. roy says:

    Been patiently waiting gor the next episode.. Seems its not coming soon. I will amuse my self by reading the episodes all over again but first bring back my namesake and make sure nothing happens to him…You er such a darling sally. Thank you for this.
    halpy val in arrears…..

    1. Sally says:

      i’ll do ask you ask, Roy.
      Thanks a lot!

  39. Lol beatrice needs to chill. Urena is a fucking bitch. This is why Niggas should never trust people too much. Madu will definitely get his. Guru is a man of action, so whatever Madu is planning will blow up in his ugly face.
    And am I the only one who noticed Guru talked to Monet? Isn’t she dead? Lol

    1. Sally says:

      Monet might be dead but not to Guru, if you noticed in previous episodes. his head is somehow.

  40. mz Fusiyin says:

    Hmmm I read the whole episodes this week. This is amazing sally! Weldone do n come come back dear. Bea n Banky my best characters lol!

    1. Sally says:

      Glad you caught up. thank you for reading, dear

  41. Ody says:

    Smh@ Urena! Betraying ur fren Guru is rily low and dirty!

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