Dear High Mistress, Uncategorized

Dear High Mistress #13

10:26 PM.

Folarin was staring at the time on his wristwatch and thinking to himself that his hand needed some moisturizer. He also had that feeling he normally got when he was in the mood to have another tattoo done. He rebuked the urge and tried to banish the memories of the past few hours. The evening had been a long one, filled with anger, tears, hurtful words, and shame. But Folarin had managed through it with a smile. He had just seen Cyrus to his car, having done his best to calm him over Cyrus Junior’s latest act of impregnating his girlfriend.

β€œYou guys shouldn’t have let him have that apartment and that car. I know that boy’s medicine. Too much independence is going to destroy him.”

β€œNobody is getting destroyed, Cyrus.” Folarin was almost giving up. Cyrus was most times unnecessarily difficult on CJ. β€œHe’ll be fine.”

Cyrus connected his phone to charge and looked up at Folarin, his angry face coming to a calm demeanor. β€œSo, she’s back home?”

β€œYeah.”

β€œAnd you guys are back together for good?”

β€œIt seems.”

Cyrus nodded. β€œThat’s what we all want. She’s an awesome woman, Folarin. You know that already. She’s learned her lesson.”

β€œYeah.”

β€œI’m rooting for you guys.”

β€œAnd you? Any plans of settling down?”

Cyrus laughed. β€œI have a baby on the way. And CJ who is more than any parent can take. That’s the most settling I can do.”

Folarin moved away from the door and Cyrus shut it. As the car left the compound, Folarin made it back to the house, rubbing dry palms together. Christie was occupied with the activity of sweeping the living room when he got in. The place was in good shape but Folarin understood that she needed to expunge the humiliation she had just faced in the presence of strangers. Cyrus Junior’s girlfriend had visited with her parents. They were a family of low means but bursting with ego. The news of their daughter being put in the family way was not received well by them. According to their version of the story, Cyrus Junior had manipulated and deflowered Lillian despite all efforts to ensure that she stayed away from him. She was betrothed to one of the pastors in their church. Her pregnancy was going to bring dishonor to their family’s reputation. They were demanding that Cyrus Junior get married to their daughter as soon as possible.

Christie had objected to the idea, as did CJ himself. The reaction to the rejection fueled a verbal fight that turned into name-calling. Folarin tried everything to broker peace but the girl’s mother, after incessant insults, rose up and promised hell on the Adedirans if her daughter was not made to become part of the family. She then stormed out of the house. Her husband followed, after reiterating her words but in a subtler manner. Lilian, at a loss on what to do, went after them, but she was chased back to the house by her mother and assaulted with slaps until she was rescued by Cyrus Junior and Folarin.

β€œDon’t you ever step foot in my house again or I will disown you! Useless child!”

Leaving them in shock, the woman made her exit the second time. Cyrus Junior looked into Christie’s face pleadingly. β€œCan she stay here?”

Christie’s reply came in silence borne by angry feet that carted her off to the bedroom. Folarin gave Cyrus Junior permission to have Lillian stay in the guestroom for the night. Afterward, he walked Cyrus Senior to the car. Now that he was back, he hoped to help Christie see why being antagonistic toward the young couple was not going to help the situation.

β€œI don’t want her staying here,” Christie made clear.

β€œCome on, Chris.”

β€œI just can’t. I’m not that type of mother.” She nudged a couch with her hip to put it in place while molding a throw pillow back into shape.

β€œAre you looking for a way out of this mess or not?”

β€œWhy is she staying here, though? It’s just a way to bully CJ into marrying her. The boy is not ready. It would be a big mistake. A colossal one. My son is a kid.”

β€œHe is not, Chris. He’s a man and he’s about to man up even more with a baby on the way. He has to take responsibility. Obviously, Lily is not safe at home. Where else do you want her to go?”

β€œIs the baby even CJ’s?”

Folarin shook his head in a show of disappointment. β€œReally?”

β€œI’m just saying.” Christie slammed the throw pillow on the couch. It rolled to the floor. She went after it and slammed it a second time. It rolled to the floor again. β€œThis thing, behave!”

Folarin picked it, placed it gently on the couch and took her hand while resting his left hand on her waist. β€œIt’s okay, Christina. Calm down. Everything’s going to be fine.”

β€œYou don’t know that.”

β€œI know.”

β€œI didn’t ask for this.” Her face rested in his neck.

β€œI know.”

She cried. He held her for as long as she let him. She then pushed away from him and went into the bedroom. Folarin let her be for a while as he sat and watched the news. Cyrus Junior emerged from the guestroom just when he was about to leave.

β€œIs Mom asleep?”

β€œI doubt that she’ll sleep for days. Maybe weeks.”

The boy scratched his head. β€œI didn’t mean to. Please, can you tell her that? I wasn’t deliberately out to disgrace her as she said earlier. I know I already disgust her by just being me.”

β€œDon’t say that…”

β€œI know, Dad. Imagine you being a constant reminder to your mom that her brother abused her and got her pregnant and she had no choice but to have you. Just imagine that. I see her look at me and see him. And now, I do this… She’ll think she’s done something wrong to deserve me.”

The brokenness on his son’s face crushed Folarin.

β€œWe didn’t plan to get pregnant. It just happened. It’s not he first time, though.”

“What?”

“Yeah, I’ve been careless.”

“CJ!”

“But I’m not bothered about me. It’s Lily. I’m thinking that maybe we should get married if it’ll make her parents happy. She’s been crying. I can’t stop her.”

Folarin let down the volume of the television. β€œCome here.”

Cyrus Junior went to him. Folarin put a hand behind his head and brought his face to his. β€œDon’t ever tie yourself to someone for the wrongest reasons. You will regret it. Do you hear me?”

β€œYes, Dad.”

β€œHer parents are angry but they will calm down. If not now, then when they see their grandchild. Don’t be pushed into trying to please them. Okay?”

β€œYes, Dad.”

β€œLily will stay here until she has the baby. We will take care of her and get everything she needs.”

β€œThank you.”

β€œSo, stop getting ahead of yourself in this issue. Relax. We got you.”

β€œThanks, Dad.”

β€œGo and ask your mom for a nightie and a blanket for Lily.”

β€œDad, she’s angry at me…”

β€œDon’t give her the space she’s looking for to be mad at you. She’s your mother. Go and ask her.”

Cyrus Junior did as he was told. When he returned, he showed gratitude to Folarin.

β€œNo naughty business in this house, CJ.”

β€œYes, sir.”

Folarin turned off the television and the lights and retired for the night. In the bedroom, Christie was spread on the bed. Brooding eyes stayed on the ceiling. A short cotton kimono barely covered the lower part of her body. She had her legs hiked up and spread apart. Folarin pulled her legs down and sat astride her. She brought her eyes to him. Words were not said; just eyes communicating. She made the first move by taking a tuft of his t-shirt and tugging him down to have her lips meet his. He stretched out over her as her thighs parted again and allowed him space between them. Neither of them had the patience for foreplay. But they were not as urgent as they were gentle. He entered her slowly, stretching her as if it was her first time, and she clung to him like she would fall if she let go.

When he was buried deep inside her, he replied to the question she had asked in the morning. β€œIt wasn’t worth it being with another woman because I didn’t find what I was looking for.” His voice was rusty with desire as he moved out and in again. β€œYou’re more than enough, Christie.”

β€œThank you for coming back.”

He smiled. β€œIt was you who went away.”

β€œBut it was you who came back.”

Β ***

β€œMaserati SUV 2017. My nipples are getting hard just looking at it. God help me not to sin on this blessed Sunday morning.”

β€œYou’re so unserious, Tish. You want to have sex with the car?”

β€œIf possible.”

Toni walked away from Leticia and Khanyi toward the magnificent beast on wheels that was parked outside their compound with a black ribbon stuck on the hood. She knew Imade’s handiwork when she saw it. But she was not impressed by him trying to impress her. In fact, she hated when a man went over the top for her. Small gifts meant he was thoughtful. Extravagant gifts indicated that he wanted to own her.

β€œThis is a beautiful car, Toni,” Khanyi said in her way of romanticizing little things. Her eyes would sparkle like a teenage girl in love for the first time just to describe the beauty of something as basic as perfectly-lined eyebrows.

She was now standing beside Toni. Leticia had also walked up to her.

β€œVery sexy. Seems our sugar daddy is generous with birthday presents.”

β€œIt’s your birthday?” Khanyi asked Toni.

β€œMy birthday is on the eighth.” Toni peeled off a black envelope fixed to the driver’s door. Out of it she pulled out a card that had a note which read:

Scarlet,

You should have this SUV if you’ll take nothing else from me. You should also have this amazing house the SUV would do a good job of complementing. Happy birthday in advance.Β 

I. H

β€œThat is the most unromantic note I have ever seen and yet it reeks of so much power I am turned on.”

β€œSo he calls you Scarlet?” Khanyi asked.

β€œYeah.”

β€œStrange pet name.”

β€œAre you going to accept the gifts?” Leticia looked into Toni’s frowning face.

β€œNo.”

β€œWhy?”

β€œBecause he wants something. That’s why he’s doing this. It’s not because of my birthday. But whatever he wants, I don’t think I can give him.”

β€œToni, just take what he offers and dump him. You seriously can’t be thinking of continuing with him. This has gone on far too long. I’m getting scared that you and Dre might never get back together.”

β€œMe too,” Khanyi agreed.

β€œTish and Khanyi, don’t you two have church to go to?”

β€œKeep the car, dump him,” Leticia repeated and walked back to the house.

β€œSay what you want to say.” Toni gave Khanyi her attention. β€œI can take it.”

β€œLeticia is right. This thing with Imade Harrison has to stop. I understand your reasons for doing it…”

β€œWhat are my reasons?”

β€œYou’re trying to numb your heart. You are also doing everything to destroy what love and relationship mean to you. This is beyond getting back at Andre. And like I said, I understand. But I have to let you know that remaining in this relationship with this man stands against all you believe in as an independent, empowered woman. Being a sidechick demeans you.”

β€œKhanyisile, don’t Beijing-conference my ass this morning. I’m not an afterthought to Imade. I’ve never been less than who I was to all the married men I dated in the past. I redefined what it meant to be a mistress and I own it.”

β€œStop lying to yourself, Toni. You’re hurting inside and you don’t want to face that hurt. Imade is a distraction, but a bad one. End what you have with him.”

Toni hadn’t the strength to argue with Khanyi. β€œI will take a minute later on to ponder on your wise words, darling. Now, go to church.”

β€œOkay. See you later.”

Khanyi turned toward her apartment. Toni took out a key fob from the envelope and unlocked the SUV. She got in. The fragrance of new leather gave her a moment to appreciate the vehicle. She held the gearshift, caressing it in a sensual manner before she pushed the keyless ignition. The engine cranked into life. Google Maps went on. An automated voice gave instructions to Toni to take the next left turn. When she peered into the screen, she discovered that a destination was already set for her. She followed the instructions and several minutes later, she was driving into a compound in an exclusive estate. Towering above her was an impressive duplex surrounded by nature and a setting fit for a family. Toni spied a playground for kids and a swimming pool.

She alighted from the car and walked to the entrance door. She went in without knocking. The house was furnished and had the fragrance of newness. Imade was seated on one of the settees with his legs resting on the center table. He was watching a game of lawn tennis.

β€œWelcome home, Antonia.”

β€œI’m not impressed, Imade.”

He sniggered.

β€œI told you from the start of this relationship that I’m not in it for the money or what you think you have to offer. I make my own money.”

β€œI know.”

β€œThen why did you break the rules with the car and this house? You think you can buy me?”

β€œNot exactly.”

β€œWhat do you want from me?”

β€œI want something?” Imade smiled. β€œYou think low of me.”

β€œWhat do you want, Imade?”

β€œTo make you more comfortable. You and your kids – as you call them. Ruby’s bedroom is to die for. She has everything in it to support her art. Duke’s too. It has this Voltron and Transformers theme.”

β€œThat car costs about forty million naira. I don’t even want to know how much this house goes for and all the furnishings you put in it. You certainly can’t spend all that money just because you want me to be more comfortable. What is it you want?”

Imade dropped his legs to the floor. β€œI have an offer you would like. Sit down.”

β€œSay what you want to say.”

β€œI’d like you to have my child, Antonia. I’m not asking for a commitment. No marriage. Nothing. Just have my child. My first spawn ever.”

β€œAnd be eternally stuck with you. Lucky girl I am.”

β€œThere are benefits if you get pregnant. A stake in CIPRON Oil and other juicy privileges.”

β€œWhy me? Why not Rita?”

β€œBecause I chose you and not Rita.”

β€œI hate when you give stupid answers to my questions. I know you’re divorcing Rita.”

Imade showed a curious face. β€œWho told you that?”

β€œAre you?”

β€œYes, but I can’t disclose the details…”

β€œRita and I had a talk, and in my opinion, trying to ditch her because she slept with your cousin is phony. But then, it’s none of my business. That’s why I kindly ask you not to drag me into your shit.”

β€œI won’t.”

β€œI want you to stay with your wife so that she’ll stop being creepy by following me around and threatening to ruin both our reputations with pictures of you and I having sex.”

Imade grimaced.

β€œIf pictures of me fucking you hit the internet, I will destroy you, Imade.”

β€œNoted.”

β€œNo, I don’t want you to note anything. I want you to go and iron out your issues with Rita and leave me out of it.”

β€œI’ll take your request into advisement. Now, back to our discussion. Take your time to think really hard about my proposal.”

β€œI have, and it’s a no from me. Find someone else.”

β€œBut I want you,” he said like a sulky child. β€œAn offspring with a combo of our brains is going to be a child prodigy. A wunderkind. Think about it.”

β€œNext time you want something from me, just ask. Don’t go buying expensive gifts to bribe me.”

β€œI have no apologies to make. The house and the SUV belong to you. If you don’t want to have them for the mere reason of having them, then accept them as an early birthday present.”

Toni was incensed by his arrogant manner but showed nothing of it. β€œLet me have your car key.”

β€œMy car key?”

β€œThat’s your BMW outside, isn’t it?”

β€œYeah.”

β€œGive me the key.”

Imade rose from the settee and went to her. He put his arms around her. She remained stiff in his hug. β€œFor some very nasty reason, I want you right now, Antonia. When you get angry, you make me horny.”

Wandering hands took a fistful of her bum and pressed her into a hard-on.

β€œYour car key.”

He produced a single key from his pocket. She took it, pushed away from him and left the house. She got into his car and drove off.

***

The ebony goddess that stood before Leticia, glaring down at her, stirred abundant amounts of jealousy in her. She possessed the type of skin Leticia spent thousands of naira trying to achieve. It was dark, radiant and spotless. Perfectly-shaded brows angling up over bright, oval eyes left an expression of rude curiosity on her face. Leticia reacted with a grin.

β€œYou want to see Andre? Who are you?”

Leticia kept grinning. β€œI’m a friend.”

β€œYour name?”

β€œLeticia. Tell him I’m here.”

Camille cast Leticia a second glance before disappearing into the house. But Leticia went after her, pushing the front door in. Camille turned.

β€œYou should have waited…”

β€œDre?” Leticia called. β€œIt’s Tisha!”

Andre emerged from his bedroom with a smile.

β€œHey, Tish.”

He went to her with a hug and kept an arm on her shoulder while speaking to Camille in French. Camille retreated to his bedroom, unsmiling.

β€œI had to come see for myself, Dre. Why nau? We have a plan. Getting a girlfriend is not part of it.”

Andre dragged her to a couch and they both sat.

β€œBody no be firewood,” he muttered.

β€œWho is she, though? Her accent stinks.”

β€œShe’s Camille.” He leaned toward Leticia and whispered. β€œAnd I like her.”

β€œI don’t.”

β€œI miss your friend, Tisha. Badly. Camille is my way of coping.”

β€œWell, you seem to be coping terribly because babe has marked her scent all over you. It’s going to be war to extract her from you.”

β€œHow is Arinola?”

β€œPretending you don’t exist.”

β€œI don’t think I do.”

β€œGet rid of your new girlfriend, please. She’ll ruin our plan.”

β€œYou still think the plan would work?”

β€œJust trust me. It will.”

β€œForgive my manners. Can I get you something? You look like you’re just getting back from church.”

β€œYeah. Khanyi invited me to hers today. It’s not far from here.”

β€œWhat do you want to drink?”

β€œNothing. Did you even attempt to go to church?”

Andre shook his head.

β€œLet me guess, you were fucking all morning.”

Andre nodded.

β€œThat’s sad.”

β€œSad works for me. Leave me and my extracurricular activities, abeg. Your friend, is she not constantly getting dicked down by Harrison?”

Leticia shrugged.

β€œAnd there goes your silence. Am I lying?”

β€œI don’t know. Maybe they fuck, maybe they don’t. She won’t tell me.”

Andre rested his back and pushed his legs forward. β€œIf I catch Antonia in a room alone ehn, I will hold her ransom and won’t let go until I get her pregnant.”

Leticia laughed. β€œYou’re savage, and I don’t mean it in a fancy slang way. You are savage like an African caveman.”

β€œI know. I’m pissed that all my silent attempts to impregnate her didn’t work.”

β€œSilent attempts?”

Andre allowed himself a thin smile. β€œNot silent. We sort of had a bet that I could get her pregnant immaculately.”

β€œNa una sabi.” Leticia drew herself to an upright posture. β€œI just came to confirm the girlfriend news. I am disappointed in you, and I will ask you very nicely to dump her.”

β€œYes, ma.”

β€œI’m not joking.”

Andre laughed. β€œLeticia! My surest babe!”

Leticia gave a snort and stood up. Andre accompanied her outside to where her car was parked.

β€œMy love to Toni and the kids. Also hail Dapo for me.”

β€œI will.”

Leticia kicked the car into motion and left Andre’s neighborhood. She drove to GRA, Ikeja, where Dapo lived. She found him outside in the company of Tayo and a friend. They were hurdled over the engine of Tayo’s car. Dapo looked up when he saw her approaching.

β€œHi, guys.”

Tayo spared her a side hug, apologizing for having his hands smeared with grease. She waved at the friend and allowed Dapo take her waist. They went into the house.

β€œI was just about to order food,” Dapo said. β€œThank God you’re here. I want okra soup and eba. I haven’t had eba in a while.”

Leticia pressed her lips into a frown as she dropped her handbag. β€œShebi they wrote cook on my forehead, Oladapo?”

β€œI miss your cooking.”

β€œAnd I didn’t miss your demanding ass. Get a cook, boy, and stop bugging my life. I’m not your mommy.”

He gave a charming smile. β€œCan I spank your ass, Mommy?” He said this while falling backwards onto a couch and taking Leticia along with him.

β€œWhat is wrong with you?”

His hands lifted her gown to find her thighs. She hit him. β€œThem Tayo can walk in. Stop it.”

β€œLet’s go inside.”

β€œDapo, I’m just from church where I gave my life to Christ after crying and saying I won’t fornicate again. For the millionth time. Allow me to enjoy my salvation, even if it’s just for one day.”

But Leticia was speaking from the side of her mouth. Minutes later, she was pinned beneath Dapo in sexual bliss. When they were done, Dapo called a nearby eatery and ordered lunch while she cleaned herself and slipped into a t-shirt.

β€œI was thinking…” Leticia began, head laid on his chest. β€œIt would be good if you did a fertility test.”

β€œHmm?”

β€œJust to be sure the problem is not from your side.”

β€œYou’re kidding, right?”

β€œI’m not. Remember the first doctor we went to see suggested it?”

β€œTish, I’m good.”

β€œI know. I just think we should be sure.”

β€œI am good.”

Leticia lifted herself up. β€œWhy does the problem have to be from me, though?”

β€œSeriously? You doing this now? After we just had bomb sex? You want to spoil the mood?”

β€œBecause I asked you to go get yourself tested?”

β€œTish, I’m not infertile.”

β€œWell, I don’t know that. And I’m simply asking you to prove that you’re okay and the problem is not from you.”

Dapo covered his face with a pillow. β€œTisha!” he groaned.

β€œDP?” Leticia pulled the pillow but he held it down. β€œWhy are you doing like this?”

β€œI am not going to any hospital to do any test. I can have kids, for fuck’s sake!”

β€œHow the hell do you know?”

β€œBecause I know!”

β€œHow?”

β€œI just know!”

β€œHow, Dapo?!”

β€œBecause I once got a girl pregnant!”

Leticia felt something in her sink. She dropped her shoulders. Dapo let down the pillow.

β€œNot just her. There was another girl. Woman, rather. And maybe there was a third. They all aborted.”

β€œSo,I’m the one with the problem…?”

β€œThis is why I didn’t want to tell you.”

Dapo tried to hold her hand but she tugged it back. Tears left a hot sensation in her eyes as she got on her feet.

β€œWhere are you going?”

β€œHome.”

β€œFor what?”

β€œI just want to be alone.”

β€œTish…” Dapo crawled towards her. He held her hand; she yanked it away. β€œBaby, come on. The doctors say you’re fine…”

β€œFine?” She laughed. β€œDapo, once upon a time, I could get pregnant at just a thought. Now that I need a baby most, nothing is happening and nobody is giving me any explanation, let alone a solution. So no, I am not fine.”

Dapo was in front of her in a flash. β€œWe’ll have a baby. Just be patient and stop stressing.”

β€œIt’s easy for you to say.”

β€œIt is not. It bugs me too, but I know the baby will come.”

She pushed him away. β€œI want to go home.”

β€œYou’re not going anywhere.” He held her.

β€œDapo, please let me go.”

β€œNo.”

β€œDapo!” she screamed. He froze. She made an attempt to move away but he held on tightly.

β€œIf we’re going to get married, you have to learn to express your emotions in front of me, Tish. You can’t be running to your house all the time to go and cry when I’m here and you can cry on me. What you think you’re going through alone right now, we’re going through it together. Your struggle is mine, baby. So, sit down, let’s talk about it. Let’s talk about this past of yours you keep sharing with me in bits. I want to know everything. Your body count, the number of abortions you’ve had, all of it.”

Fear stole into Leticia’s eyes. She recalled a warning from Toni about revealing her past to Dapo. It was a good time to take her friend’s advice seriously, but the deadpan look on Dapo’s face showed he wasn’t playing.

β€œSit, Leticia.”

She heard Toni’s voice in her head… issa trap!

Dapo took her hand and tugged her down. He then lay on his back, resting his head on a pillow. β€œOya, talk.”

Β ***

The last thing Christie wanted was to become the overbearing mother that gave her son’s girlfriend a hard time. But she couldn’t help it. She knew nothing about Lily. She was angry that she had to accept a child she wasn’t prepared for; and of course, she hated the fact that she had to be made a grandmother in her thirties. But the bulk of her anger was for Cyrus Junior. Regrettably she couldn’t express it for fear of losing him entirely. She knew this was a test of her love and commitment to their relationship. How she handled the present dilemma was going to determine what would become of them in the future. It was her chance to undo all the neglect he felt while growing up, yet it was difficult for her to come to terms with reality.

Church today had been a bore. Not because it had been, but because she couldn’t connect with anything happening. She hadn’t waited until the final prayers were said before she hurried out to the children’s church to get Vanessa and Tamilore. Arriving home, she found her kitchen occupied with the presence of Lily. The girl stopped her activity when Christie made her appearance known by dumping her handbag on the counter.

β€œGood afternoon, ma.” Lily bent the knee a little.

β€œHi Lillian. How are you doing?”

β€œI’m fine.”

β€œYou’re making lunch?”

β€œYes. I saw that Daddy and CJ haven’t eaten, so…”

β€œIt’s fine. You don’t have to. There’s stew in the freezer. I’ll just boil rice and some veggies and we can all eat.”

β€œBut the spaghetti I made is already done.”

Christie tried not to frown.

β€œI’m sorry.”

Christie picked up her handbag. β€œIt’s okay. When you’re through, call CJ to help you set the food on the table. Meanwhile, have you called your parents? You mother, especially?”

β€œShe won’t pick my calls. My dad’s phone is bad. I can’t reach him. But I spoke with my sister and cousin. My parents are fine. They just don’t want to see me at home. My sister said my mom has packed all my things and kept them outside.”

Christie foresaw the tears before they escaped her eyes. If there was anything, she felt Lily’s shame and pain. She had been in her shoes twenty-one years ago, facing her parents’ wrath, being looked down upon by church members, dealing with her own guilt and self-condemnation. She understood Lily’s distress, but didn’t know how to reach out to her. Christie stood awkwardly while the girl battled with her tears. When she mustered up words, she simply said, β€œEverything will be fine,” and left the kitchen.

Christie’s bedroom was warm. Tan drapes were spread open at the windows to let in air, but the weather was hot, caused by a scorching sun outside. Folarin sat before the balcony’s open doors. His laptop rested on his lap but he wasn’t occupied with it. In his hand was a glass of liquor. His eyes gazed out.

Christie dropped her handbag and went to him. The tree right outside their bedroom offered the right amount of cool breeze needed for the weather. Folarin took the hand Christie rested on his shoulder and kissed it.

β€œHow was church?”

β€œOkay.”

β€œYour pastor ask about me?”

β€œAs always. He shook my hand as I got into church and went, β€˜how is Richard? I thought about him this morning.’”

Folarin laughed. β€œHe always thinks about me in the mornings.”

β€œHow was your day?”

β€œQuiet. I’ve been writing. Just taking a break.” He put the laptop aside and brought Christie to his lap.

β€œThis new book of yours, what’s it about?”

β€œIt’s something different.”

β€œCare to share?”

He touched her cheek and then her nose. β€œNo, not now. You’ll read the first draft when I’m through.”

β€œOkay o.” Christie stood. β€œI need to get out of this place.”

β€œYou saw Lily in the kitchen?”

β€œYes.” Christie walked to the closet.

β€œShe insisted on making lunch.”

β€œIt’s fine.”

β€œNo, it’s not. I can hear it in your voice. That silent grunt.”

β€œIf it’s silent, then you didn’t hear it.”

β€œChris…” There was some hesitation in his tone but Christie knew he was going to say what he planned to say. β€œYou have to get used to the fact that she’s going to be here a long time…”

Christie turned. β€œIt’s not her I’m angry at. Yes, I don’t want to see her face, but it’s not her.”

β€œIt’s CJ.”

β€œYeah. And I know I ought to get past this and work on our issues, but it’s hard, Fola. It’s very hard. I’m so disappointed. Cy was right. We have been too lenient with him. He drinks beer in front of us, parties, keeps late nights…”

β€œHe is no longer a child. And don’t forget he’s not under your roof anymore.”

β€œBut his girlfriend and unborn child are. We don’t trust him enough to adequately care for them. If that doesn’t reek of irresponsibility on his side and bad parenting on ours, I don’t know what does.”

β€œChill, Christie. Just chill. I spoke with Cyrus earlier. He’s getting CJ a job. He will work and make money for his baby while he schools. He will take responsibility. He can’t undo what has been done. Neither can we. All that’s left is for us is to adapt and make the best out of the situation.”

β€œOkay.”

β€œI understand how hard it is for you to let people into your personal space. Lily looks like she’s an intruder right now, but things will sort themselves out soon. Okay?”

β€œI hope so.”

As Christie undressed, she mulled over the idea of a vacation. She needed one badly.

***

Sundays were for sleeping. Every Sunday, Salma spread herself on her bed in the nude while the sounds of carefree laughter from her kids lulled her into dreamland. It was in keeping to this weekly tradition she stripped out of her clothes some minutes ago and fell facedown on her bed. She could hear the nanny scolding Fahad for pulling Deejah’s hair. She could hear Deejah wailing. She could also hear the distant sound of Northern-inspired music playing from the gateman’s radio.

Soon she was gone and her subconscious toyed with the idea of a pleasant dream, but a loud scream from Fahad jolted her up. She dashed out of the room and out to the staircase where she found Fahad at the bottom of it, facedown and crying his lungs out. She sighed.

“Ma, he was sliding on the banister and fell down,” the nanny explained.

“Did he injure himself?”

“No, ma.”

“Leave him there let him be crying. He doesn’t hear word.”

Salma returned to her bedroom. Unable to sleep, she picked a novel and got lost in it. A tap on the door brought her back to alertness.

β€œWho is it?”

The door pushed open and Raji walked in. Salma covered herself with the bedspread, although she had a bra and a panty on.

β€œYou know you have to wait before being let into a bedroom before you enter, right?”

β€œI’m sorry.”

β€œWhat do you want?”

Raji looked around. β€œAren’t you feeling the heat? The weather is steaming. Can I close the windows and turn on the AC?”

β€œThe gen is off.”

Raji went to one of the windows and called out to the gateman, instructing him to turn on the generator. Salma watched him shut both windows.

β€œWe need to talk about some things,” she told him as she rose up. She held the bedspread over her chest.

β€œI’m listening.” He dumped his weight on the bed. β€œWhat’s it about?”

β€œThis. The way you barge in here as if it’s still your house, as if I’m still your wife, as if we still have something going on… We’re done, Raji.”

β€œHaba, Sal. We’re not that done.”

β€œWe are.”

β€œWell, this still feels like home to me and you’re still the woman I love…”

β€œThe same woman you cheated on. Twice.”

β€œSalma, the chemistry we have is still strong.”

β€œIt’s over.”

Salma moved away from the bed and to the dressing table.

β€œBut I still love you, Sal.”

β€œRaji… ” She was exasperated. “I want you to stop coming over.”

He laughed. β€œYou’re not serious. Come here joor.”

β€œI’m serious.”

β€œJust one kiss would–”

β€œI don’t love you anymore!”

Raji’s laughter died on his face.

β€œI’m not sexually attracted to you as I used to be. We are divorced, Raji. We have to stay that way or I’ll be forced to take drastic measures.”

β€œLike what?”

β€œLike cutting you off totally.”

Raji went cold. He drew his weight up. The expression on his face wounded Salma.

β€œI’m sorry,” she whispered and walked to the closet to pick a jalabia.

β€œI can be what you want me to be, Sal. I’ve changed. You know that.”

β€œI know, Raji. But you’ll still go back to the man you used to be once I give you a chance.”

β€œNo, no, no.” He walked to her. β€œSal, I’ve truly changed. You’ve been the only one, and I haven’t been with another woman since we stopped. Come on, baby…”

β€œI can’t.”

She left him standing and sat on the dressing stool.

β€œIs it the guy with the dreads?” he asked.

β€œHmm?”

β€œThe guy that makes your hair. I’ve seen him with you more than a couple of times. Is it because of him? Are you guys…?”

β€œNo.”

β€œBut you like him.”

Salma’s head dropped.

β€œYou like him?”

β€œMaliq is my hairstylist, Raji. And that’s that.”

β€œSalma, you and that guy are from separate worlds. It would be a huge mistake–”

β€œThere is nothing between us! Ah! Stop jumping to conclusions!”

β€œI’m sorry.”

β€œJust go.”

β€œYou don’t really mean all you just said, right?”

β€œGo, Raji. I’ll call you tomorrow and we’ll talk about the kids and new visiting arrangements.”

Raji gave a short, sad laugh. β€œThis is not happening.”

β€œIt is, Raj.”

β€œDon’t let me fight for my kids.”

β€œIt wouldn’t have to get to that if you respect my wishes.”

β€œFine.” He looked around, but this time, with a bit of wistfulness. β€œI’ll be expecting your call. Meanwhile, about the girls’ birthday…”

β€œIt’s going to be handled by me as usual.”

β€œI want to be part of it this year.”

β€œRaji, I will handle it. Don’t bother.”

β€œFine.”

Salma was sad to see him go. She locked the door after he left and stood until she heard his car screeching out of the compound. Being that her Sunday bliss was interrupted, she took off her jalabia and went on Maliq’s Instagram. He had close to three hundred pictures and almost six thousand followers. Salma thought he was a little too vain, but it didn’t bother her that much. He took awesome pictures and constantly slayed with his fashion sense. He hadn’t posted anything in a while, which was a bit unusual. Salma fed her eyes with old images, nonetheless. But soon she switched back to her novel,with her mind half on the story and half on him.

***

β€œDinner was wonderful.” Christie looked into her husband’s eyes like she was falling in love with him for the first time.

β€œIt was?”

She nodded. β€œEspecially the part where you made it hard for me to eat because your hand kept rubbing my thighs under the table. What was wrong with you?” She laughed. β€œI thought you graduated from that.”

β€œRemember that time we were caught because we thought the table cloth was long enough to hide what was going on?”

Christie’s head was thrown back in laughter. β€œPlease don’t remind me. Everyone saw us. Jeez!”

Folarin gazed into Christie’s eyes, warmth coming from his. β€œI just wanted to recall the past. I’m glad you had fun tonight.” The silent hum of the car and the soft music playing from the speakers gave the feel of something amorous. He had set the mood from the moment when he dragged her out of the house for an unexpected dinner date a few hours ago.

Folarin freed himself from the clutch of his seatbelt. He also shut the car engine. Christie leaned toward him for a peck but he took her mouth entirely.

β€œWe should go out like this more often,” she told him in breathlessness when he freed her lips.

β€œWe should do a lot more than go out,” he responded. β€œI’m serious about getting married again.”

β€œRemember our first honeymoon night?”

β€œAhhh,” Folarin breathed reminiscently. β€œIt was fire.”

And there was some fire in his eyes now as he said those words. Christie could read the wanton thoughts he threw her way. She giggled when his eyes indicated that they should move to the backseat of the SUV. But a sudden tap on his window brought a stop to their plans. He let down the window for Vanessa. Holding a restless Tamilore in her arms, she looked from one parent to the other in exasperation.

β€œPlease, take your baby.”

She thrust the toddler at Folarin.

β€œMommy, Aunty Lily has been sitting at the back of the house since. She’s been crying. I told her to enter that I want to release the dogs for the night but she refused.”

Christie mourned the end of a wonderful evening with a sigh. For a moment she had forgotten Lily existed. β€œAnd where’s CJ?”

β€œHe went out.”

β€œHe’s not back? He told me he just wanted to buy a few things.”

β€œHe hasn’t come back. Mommy, please come and talk to her.”

Christie didn’t feel like having a word with Lily, but she had promised Folarin she would do everything to make the girl comfortable.

She stepped down from the car, taking her phone with her. She dialed Cyrus Junior as headed to the backyard. The sounds of honking cars burst into her ear from his end.

β€œWhere are you?” she demanded.

β€œMy car broke down. I’ve been trying to fix it. I’m almost done. What’s going on?”

β€œNothing.” Christie spotted Lily sitting on the stirs that led up to the kitchen. Her head was bowed over her thighs. β€œDo and come back.”

Christie hung up and walked towards Lily.

β€œLily? Lily?”

The girl lifted her head up. Swollen eyes tried to focus on Christie.

β€œWhat are you doing here and why are you crying?”

β€œNothing,” the girl answered. She tried to push away a couple of braids falling over her face. Skinny fingers trembled as she did so. Christie felt pity for her. She was a fragile-looking girl. The stress of her present condition made her look gaunt.

β€œYou’re sitting out here, crying, and it’s nothing?”

β€œI’m fine.”

β€œTalk to me, Lily.”

β€œI’m okay, ma. I just want to stay outside for a while.”

β€œThere are mosquitoes. You’re pregnant. You should protect yourself from malaria. So, get up and go inside.”

There was no hesitation from Lily. She went up on her feet and pulled open the backdoor of the kitchen. Christie followed her in.

β€œWarm up something to eat, have a warm shower and then go to sleep.”

β€œYes, ma. Thank you.”

Christie hurried out of the kitchen. She still didn’t feel like connecting with Lily. She needed time to accept reality and to slowly let her in. Maybe the birth of the baby would make things real for her. For now, the whole thing was still a haunting nightmare.

She retired to the bedroom. Folarin was putting together a bottle of already prepared guinea-corn pap for Tamilore. The baby pushed away from him when her meal was ready and lay on the floor to have the moment to herself, sending her parents to stitches.

β€œSometimes I don’t know what she wants,” Christie stated.

β€œThe babe has her moods.”

Both parents stripped out of their clothes. Folarin occupied himself with his laptop while Christie stood before her idea board with a felt pen hovering over it. Tamilore was soon fast asleep, her hand clutching her bottle. An hour went by before Christie took a break from the new ad concept she was working on for a beauty product. She put Tamilore to bed and went to Folarin. It was at that moment Cyrus Junior came knocking. He entered the room with a distressed expression and a water bottle containing a greenish-brown liquid.

β€œDad, mom, were you here when Lily’s mom came?”

β€œNo,” Christie responded.

β€œShe came with this.” CJ lifted the bottle. β€œShe told Lily to take it to abort the baby, that if she doesn’t, she’s going to disown her.”

Folarin shut his laptop. Cyrus Junior sat on his parents’ bed. β€œShe also told her to get 200k from me.”

β€œAnd what’s Lily’s reaction to this?” Christie asked.

β€œShe’s seriously thinking about it,” he answered in embarrassment. β€œMom, I want this baby. Can you talk to her, please? You’ve been in her shoes. You understand what she’s going through.”

β€œCJ, I don’t think I’m the best person…”

β€œPlease. And then her parents, talk to them too. They should leave her the fuck alone. If they’re scared that I don’t want to get married to her, they shouldn’t be. I’ll do it…”

β€œNo, no, no…” Christie hurried to him. β€œNo. Both of you are not ready for marriage. You’re too young.”

β€œBut you married dad when you had me and you were still a teenager.”

For a second Christie was speechless. β€œI…I did it because I needed you to have a good foundation. I couldn’t let anyone know who your real father was.”

β€œYou chose Dad because he was responsible, right?”

β€œYeah.”

β€œI’m responsible too. If Dad could take care of me, I can take care of my child too.”

β€œCyrus, you’re not ready.”

β€œI’m getting a job, mom. I already have a house and a car. I’m ready.”

β€œNo, you’re not. You just want to make Lillian comfortable.”

β€œAnd what’s wrong with that?”

β€œThere’s nothing wrong with it. It’s not a bad thing, but…”

β€œI got her pregnant, Mom! She is my responsibility! Why can’t you see that? She and the baby are my responsibility!” He leaped to his feet. β€œIf getting married to her is going to stop her parents from treating her like trash, then I’ll do it! End of!”

He charged out of the room angrily. Christie looked at Folarin who stretched out a hand to her.

β€œIf there’s anything, you should be happy that your son is owning up to his responsibilities. You should be proud.”

β€œProud?” Christie settled on Folarin’s lap. β€œHe wants to get married for the wrong reasons, just as I did. He is too young, Richard. And this Lily’s mother of a human being, who the hell does she think she is to barge into my house whenever she feels like to stir trouble?”

β€œShe’s a disturbed mother. Just like you. She’s dealing with the problem the best way she knows how to.”

β€œI am not trying to murder my grandchild.”

β€œI think you should do as CJ suggests. Have a one on one with her. Mother to mother.”

β€œHell no. she insulted us the last time she was here. She questioned my parenting skills. She called me names. I am not going anywhere near her.”

β€œJust try.”

Christie got off Folarin’s lap. β€œI’m going to bed. I don’t want to talk about this again. I have a busy day tomorrow.”

Folarin lifted the lid off his laptop as Christie tossed aside the numerous pillows at the head of the bed. She picked one of them and dove beneath the covers. It took a while after saying her prayers to fall asleep.

Β©Sally@moskedapages

Sally

Author. Screenwriter. Blogger

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25 Comments

  1. JustDotun says:

    This is getting crazyyyyyyy. Thank you Sally. Keep us hungry for more.

  2. Kemi says:

    Hmmmm……..

    Sally mi o, thank you for this and for the marathon that has commenced. You know how much I appreciate you.
    I really feel for CJ and Lilian though, when you have to grow up before you are ready……
    Leticia, i hope you will have sense sha
    Arinola and Andrea are beginning to piss me off but sha no matter what you both will end up together.
    But one question sha, do men like Cyrus still exist? He is a rare man
    Looking forward to tomorrow

    1. ADEYEMI says:

      Very rare

  3. loolah says:

    Finally Christie and Fola are back together, abeg it remains Andre and Toni oo, Imade can just like to disappear for all i care sef. i really feel for this lily girl. The issue of teenage pregnancy and parents reactions to it is really a big one in our society nowadays. As always amazing write up. More grease to your pen. Patiently waiting for tomorrow’s episode.

  4. slimshawty says:

    Hmmm!!! #deepsigh… this episode opened up a kinda situation I was b4 dat I tried forget dat memory… I feel for Christy&Lily in deir own respective ways coz v bn there b4. Thank u Sally

  5. ADEYEMI says:

    Deep sigh…..i didnt want this to end. Thanks Sally

  6. Ejiro says:

    Let the marathon begin.

    Thank you Sally for this. So so happy for Folarin and Christie.
    Hoping Andre and Toni get back together.

  7. Ogoo says:

    Great story. Can’t wait to see it unfold.

  8. Sayrah says:

    Andre and toni… hmmm… i choose to sit back and watch as thier story unfolds; they are driving me crazy. That’s how people use excessive shakara to chase their loved ones away. Well then, there’s a saying- love is not always enough…

    The societal scorn that comes with having a child out of wedlock; whether as an adult or a teenager is disheartening. Yes they should have known better, but that is never enough reason to throw the baby out with the bath water. I guess as humans faced with such situations, we must go through the myriads of emotions, depending on your role in the situation before coming to terms with the reality of things; for those who do, and make the best of things.
    Christy, lily, and Cj will all be fine. Good thing Christy can relate. I believe that would be the middle ground for her and lily.
    Somehow i feel for raji and wish salma wil give him another chance.

    This marathon is doing things to my brain sally. Thank you. You are the bestest yet!

  9. I feel like Lilian’s pregnancy is a false alarm sha. Nobody has even thought to go do a proper test. Thank you for the long read Sally.

  10. The part where Vanessa asked her parents to take their baby cracked me up.
    Thanks aunty sally for this episode❀❀❀

  11. Datoks says:

    I so feel for CJ, I made should please park well with his money bike. Thanks Sally. Looking forward to tomorrow

  12. I think Antonia is just plain stupid, someone needs to slap some sense into her. I’m so proud of salma’s decision with raji. She’s officially my favourite right now.

  13. Chinonso Wyre says:

    Waooo. So long. Thanks Sally. Sensing something is going to go down between Salma and Maliq.

  14. Zinnie says:

    I’ve tried to understand dre and Toni but I just can’t. They were my favorite after Fola and Christy, but they’re really beginning to piss me off. I really feel for Lily and I respect Fola for his understanding in the situation.
    Tisha and Dapo sha. I hope all the lovebirds get over their problems like Christy and Folarin did, I don’t know about Salma and Raji though but I suspect Maliq ain’t for real.

    Thanks Sally for this long and sumptuous read

  15. Turban Girl says:

    Awwww, CJ and Lily, the whole confusion of it, I try to understand that is not the situation parents want for their kids, but a little more understanding and care would surely go a long way.
    Salma, my hottie! I am glad she is finally holding firm to her decision, I like her relationship with Raji, but I think they need space, away from each other to really understand what they want from each other.
    I am surrounded by babies, so I totally understand that Tamilore’s scene, babies are such adorable monsters.
    Leticia, homegirl!! Issa trap ooo, don’t divulge too much oo. I strongly believe Dapo should get tested too, even if he claims to have impregated 3 women, things might have changed joor
    I agree with Leticia, Camille already sounds like she wld be hard to get rid of oo, even harder than psycho Imade and his psycho wife. She knows fully well Andre is not really into her, but she no go gree commot.

  16. TY says:

    Hmmm, wouldn’t wish for someone to be in Christie’s shoes, it almost seems like history repeating itself. Leticia should let us in on her plans for Andre and Toni and she should reveal all about her past to Dapo, i agree with Toni “issa trap”.

  17. TY says:

    ‘shouldn’t

  18. Ola says:

    Marathon has begun…drumrolls
    Hope its till January 1st
    Sally no fall my hand o

  19. Amy says:

    This is a wonderful read…… Weldone Sally

  20. Seye says:

    This is one lovely ri4de for me. Every character was touched.
    It’s nice to see Christie and Fola gerring together again. In the kind of CJ’s situation, way forward should just be the main thing, not blame trading. And of course, Lilian’s people wanna push her into a hone where they see confort, not knowing the challenges those ones are facing themselves. I say people should not force people to marry because of pregnancy. It isn’t always the best.
    Toni and Andre ehn! I just hope they both won’t regret this their yanga in the end. With Camille marking territory already, it’s gon’ be interesting to see how their love plays out.
    Salma loves Raji but she’s trying hard to be safe, safe from the Raji she knew. Who won’t be anyways.
    This Dapo and Tis tho. Their Matter na another thing.
    Thanks for making me watch a movie while reading Sally, thanks for the marathon too.
    Blessings

  21. Lilian says:

    Pls no baby is allowed between imade and Toni. Me I sha fear for Leticia after she tells her story

  22. Amina says:

    There is something about that hairdresser guy that i cannot put my hands on. Salma be careful
    Christie’s reaction to CJ’s baby being pregnant is classic. Most of us are so busy wondering what a young girl’s family will do to her when they discover that shes pregnant that we dont give a thought to what the guy’s family think too and how it affects their expectations for their child.
    See ehn, Toni, pick one hustle o. Is either you pick Imade and the craziness that comes with him or accept the LOYL back. Andre, you sef dey annoy me with this your plan wey no dey work.
    I like the tune of this story, we are seeing things from the man’s POV. Just like Christie’s reaction to Lilian’s pregnancy, its good to have it in the open that its not only women that trap a man with pregnancy, (thats what Andre tried to do).
    Tish! DONT YOU DARE TELL DAPO, issatrap.
    Christie and Folarin be humping themselves like rabbits every chance they get, starvation things. Even Vanessa has gotten so used to it. That girl na agbero-take your baby, made me laugh out loud.
    I feel sorry for Raji and i shouldnt given his yeye history.
    Thanks Sal.

  23. Lele says:

    Hey Sally, I discovered your blog last month and I just want to tell you your stories are amazing and you’re doing a good job

  24. Ifeanyi Onochie says:

    The new dimension of CJ’s baby is a huge, welcome distraction to both Folarin and Christie. I hope he makes the right choice for he, Lily and the unborn baby. Let Lily not be thrown into the same problems that Tish now has. I liked this long episode. I hope the next one is just as long.

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