Dear High Mistress

Dear High Mistress #15

β€œI’ve told you to stop coming here, and stop bringing food to me as well. I’m fine, Salma.”

Salma bit her lip. It was hard not to break down at the sight of Maliq. Standing behind the enquiries counter at the police station where he was held, he was all bruised and messed up from the famous brutality of the police. He could barely look at her as both eyes were injured and inflamed. From the moment she led a team of policemen to his house and they bundled him like a criminal to their station, she had regretted her actions. The look in his eyes that day when he stared into hers still haunted her.

β€œSalma, you know I didn’t steal from you,” he had said as they tried to push him into the police vehicle. β€œYou know I’d never hurt you like that.”

But he received a slap at the back of his head from one of the policemen. It had stung so badly he lurched over and his forehead slammed over the hood of the car. Salma squeezed her dress in distress.

β€œRaji, please, tell them not to hurt him.”

β€œThey’re only doing their job, Sal.”

β€œSalma, I didn’t do it!” Maliq shouted before he was forced into the car. And from then on, Salma’s nightmare began. She cried for most of the day, refusing to eat anything. By the next morning she was up before the sun appeared. She fixed a meal for him and rushed to the police station, only to be told that he had been moved elsewhere.

β€œWhere?”

No one had an answer for her. An hour later and she was still told stories. When she reported the matter to Raji, he was casual about it.

β€œLeave the police to do their job.”

β€œRaji, I need to know where they took him to.”

β€œDon’t bother yourself with that. He’ll be fine. He just needs to confess. Relax.”

But she was unable to stay calm. She fretted all through the day and at night, she stayed awake. The following morning, she was back at the police station. After threats, the policemen agreed to give her some information about his whereabouts.

β€œHe will be here tomorrow,” one of them assured her. Raji’s cousin who had spearheaded the arrest was not in his office. Salma’s only option was to take the police by their word. Early the next morning she was there again, but they kept her waiting for a couple of hours before someone brought Maliq to her. She had expected to meet him as she had seen him the day he was arrested, but a brutalized version of him was brought to the counter. At the sight of him she broke down and began to question the police officers, demanding to know why they had laid their hands on him. Their retort was silence, and when one of them spoke, he told her they were doing their job and she was to mind her business.

β€œI no even understand you sef, madam. Na you accuse am. Na you come dey form concerned person. Which one you dey?”

β€œNice question,” Maliq said quietly through swollen lips.

β€œI’ll get you out,” she promised.

He rejected the food she brought for him and begged her not to return. Salma left the police station to Covet, bursting into Raji’s office without being invited. Raji dissolved a small gathering of employees he had with him to attend to her.

β€œHe didn’t do it. You have to get him out,” she said the instant they were alone.

β€œSal, you disrupted my meeting just to tell me this nonsense?”

β€œGet Maliq out of that police station, Raji. He’s innocent.”

β€œStop being ridiculous, Sal.”

β€œThey’ll kill him in there! Get him out!”

β€œNo. He has to confess.”

β€œHe didn’t do it, Raji Asepita!” Salma screamed in frustration.

β€œSalma, don’t cross my wires this morning. Allow the police do what they do best.”

β€œBeing beasts, you mean? Brutalizing innocent people?”

β€œHe will confess when they are done with him.”

β€œSo, you’re not going to help him?”

β€œNo.”

She stared at him in suspicion. β€œHow am I sure you didn’t even set him up?”

Raji’s jaw fell. β€œAre you serious?”

β€œYou had the same access to my bedroom…”

β€œAre you serious right now, Salma?”

β€œDid you set him up or not?”

Raji’s head shook in amazement.

β€œI need to know!”

β€œI may be many things but I can never stoop so low. Don’t ever accuse me for shit like that again.”

β€œYou’re still heartless for refusing to help him.” With that, she stormed out of his office. On her way home, she called a lawyer friend and furnished her with details of the case. She begged her to represent Maliq. The woman accepted the job. Later that evening she reached Salma and explained that the police had strong evidence against him. They had found out, from going through his Whatsapp messages, that he had been selling gold to clients over the past year, and even on that morning they had found a chat where he claimed he had new pieces to sell.

β€œBut he insists that they are not yours,” the lawyer informed Salma. β€œDo you know anything about him selling gold jewelries?”

β€œNo. He never mentioned it.”

β€œAsides that, the police have it in for him. He has been actively involved in the #EndSars campaign on Twitter.”

β€œOh God. Muyinat, please get him out of there for me. If anything happens to him, I won’t forgive myself.”

β€œBut do you really believe he didn’t steal from you, given the new evidence?”

Salma hesitated with her answer.

β€œSalma?”

β€œMaliq is not a thief. He didn’t do it.”

Salma had no reason for her conviction, but in her heart, she knew he had been accused wrongly.

β€œI’ll do my best. The police are dragging their feet in charging him to court,” Muyinat told her. β€œBut have no worries, the case will be tossed away.”

Salma waited with bated breath for Muyinat’s next phone call, but Muyinat’s sick mother had suddenly passed away and she was forced to withdraw from the case, referring Salma to another lawyer who was only going to be available on Thursday. Salma waited impatiently, and on Thursday morning, she drove to see Maliq with the new lawyer. Waiting outside, she got on the phone with Raji.

β€œCall your cousin to end this. It’s gone on for too long. If Maliq really had my stuff, don’t you think he would have confessed by now after all the torturing?”

β€œSalma…” Raji groaned. He was just stirring from sleep.

β€œPlease, Raj. I’m begging you here. Please.”

β€œFine.”

She didn’t thank him. She felt he didn’t deserve it.

β€œI’m curious, though. You love him enough to accept that he stole from you and is going to get away with it?”

β€œYes.” Her reply was to hurt Raji. She was convinced that Maliq was innocent.

β€œAlright.”

Raji hung up without saying goodbye, which was a first for him. Salma walked back into the police station just as the lawyer was stepping out of it.

β€œI can’t do anything today. He will be arraigned in court next week. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.”

She thanked the lawyer and escorted him out. On her way back in, a policewoman called her over to the counter.

β€œOur oga wan see you.”

The β€˜oga’ turned out to be Raji’s cousin. He questioned her decision to have the case tossed out.

β€œAre you sure?” he asked.

β€œYes.”

β€œThis man is a real, hardened criminal, an enemy of the police, which means he is an enemy of the state.”

Salma was silent.

β€œEven if I choose to let him go, how about all his hateful speeches on the internet against the police?”

Salma sustained her silence. The man was riled.

β€œI don’t even know why Raji bothered me with this whole thing. Madam, you can go. We will release him by evening.”

β€œWhy not now?”

β€œAre you to tell me how to do my job?”

β€œI’m sorry, sir.”

β€œYou can go.”

Salma left his office a little elated. She bore the same joy when she asked to see Maliq. But when he was brought out and she saw fresh wounds on him, tears thronged her eyes. She offered him food. He declined.

β€œI am so sorry, Maliq.”

β€œStop apologizing.”

β€œI won’t. I shouldn’t have brought you here.”

β€œYou did what you had to do.”

β€œWell, I have good news. You’ll be out later today.”

β€œThey told you that?”

She nodded, wiping her eyes. β€œSo, please, eat.”

β€œNo, thanks.”

β€œMaliq…”

β€œGo home, Salma.”

He turned away. Salma took the food she had come with and made her exit. She arrived home just in time to dress up for the children’s end of year party. Comfort was there with them. She demanded to know why Salma looked depressed. Salma lied, explaining that she had lost a friend.

β€œEiya. Sorry.”

β€œThanks.”

β€œMeanwhile, one alhaja like this came to see you. She said she’s been calling your line but no answer.”

Salma remembered ignoring the woman’s calls. She hadn’t been in the mood to speak to anybody in days.

β€œShe told me she’ll come back, that she just wants to pick up a few things at Obalende.”

β€œI hope we’ll be around when she comes back.”

Salma hurriedly showered and changed her clothes. On her way out, the said alhaja came driving into the compound. Salma wasn’t so pleased to see her. She had never liked her. They were acquainted via Raji’s side of the family. She was one of those overly-loud rich women that did nothing but show off their husband’s wealth. Even now as she walked towards Salma, she was glittering under the sun like a walking pin board for gold knickknacks. Salma recalled a rather unpleasant encounter with her where she tried to make Salma feel small at an occasion by insinuating that her jewelry was cheap.

β€œGood morning, Salimot,” Salma greeted. She had also hated the fact that they shared similar names, but she enjoyed addressing her that way, knowing how much she enjoyed the β€˜alhaja’ title better.

β€œAs-Salam-Alaikum, Salma.” Salimot, for the first time since knowing Salma, didn’t seem to have her usually haughty air.

β€œHow is the family?” Salma asked.

β€œAlhamdulillah. Please, can I speak with you privately?”

β€œI hope all is well?”

β€œYes. But please, let’s go in and talk.”

When Fahad saw that Salma was retreating to the house, he made a show of impatience.

β€œComfort, just go with them. I’ll be with you in a bit.”

β€œOkay.”

Salma led Salimot into the house and offered her a seat and a drink. The woman declined the latter.

β€œThe thing that brought me here is a very shameful one, Salma.”

Salma watched as she opened her handbag and took out a white polythene bag and spread it before her. All of Salma’s stolen jewelry was in the bag. Salma gasped.

β€œWhere did you get this?”

The woman also took out the wad of dollars that had gone missing.

β€œAllah sarki!” Salma exclaimed. β€œAlhaja, what is all this? How did you get this?”

β€œIt’s my daughter o. The one that just turned fifteen.”

β€œFirdaus?”

β€œNot Firdaus. Falilat. She was here for your children’s party. You remember?”

β€œYes.”

β€œMe I thought I was bringing a human being to come and enjoy herself with her younger ones here, only for her to disgrace me like this. I didn’t know at all. It was my youngest son who told me just this morning that he saw her counting dollars. I now called her and questioned her and searched her room and found this.”

Salma looked on in shock.

β€œHer stupid reason was that shaytan deceived her to steal from you. If you see the way I beat that shaytan out of her body this morning ehn! Even her father had to beg me. I cannot have a useless child in my house who is working hand in hand with the devil. God forbid!”

β€œThis is shocking.”

β€œI know, my sister. That is why I’m begging you not to hate my family. You know I am more than this. Is it these jewelries that I cannot buy two times? Why would Falilat disgrace me this way? What does she know about gold and diamonds that she would feel the need to steal them?”

Salma’s eyes tried hard not to blame Salimot.

β€œI mean, we try to live modestly. I teach them to be content with what they have.”

β€œIt’s youthful exuberance.” Salma was trying to be kind.

β€œI wanted to drag her here to apologize in person but her father has taken her to the chemist to treat her.”

β€œYou beat her that much?”

β€œI said I wanted to kill her. It’s better not to have a child than to have a criminal as a child.”

β€œTake it easy, Salimot.”

β€œPlease, forgive and forget, my dear. I beg you in the name of Allah.”

β€œIt’s okay, Salimot. It’s all forgiven. Please, give me a second, let me send a quick text.”

Salma got out her phone, and in the pretense of sending an SMS, she took discreet pictures of Salimot holding the dollars and jewelries. There was no way she was going to convince Maliq, without evidence that he hadn’t been set up. After she was done, she collected her property and bade the alhaja a fine farewell. She was bursting to give the good news to Maliq but her children’s school party was of utmost importance. On her way there, she called Raji’s cousin and explained the latest development to him. He didn’t seem pleased by the news. Salma also informed Maliq’s lawyer, sending him the pictures she had taken. She then permitted herself some laughter and relief after a long week of tears.

The children’s end of year party ended in the evening and she left the kids in Comfort’s care. On her way to the police station, she got a distressing call from Maliq’s lawyer. He informed her that Maliq had collapsed and was rushed to a general hospital. When Salma got there, she requested that he be transferred to the family hospital on Victoria Island for better care. She sat by his side for hours until he finally opened his eyes by 1AM.

She was asleep when she felt his hand on her. She jerked up.

β€œWhat are you doing here?” He rubbed her hand.

β€œYou’re awake. Are you okay?” she asked.

β€œI’m good. Just exhausted and really sleepy. Why are you here?”

β€œWhy shouldn’t I be here?”

β€œGo home, Salma.”

Salma checked the time. β€œI can’t. It’s too late.”

β€œGo home…” he said weakly and fell back to sleep again.

Salma returned home only when the sun came up. Comfort was waiting for her, as was Raji.

β€œI got an alert from the bank this morning,” Raji stated as she walked into the house. “It was from Reddington. I was worried. I thought it was Raheem. I called Comfort and she said he was fine. I came here to look for you because I couldn’t reach your phone and I met Comfort here. Are you okay, Sal?”

Salma ignored him. β€œGood morning, Commie.”

β€œI was worried about you last night,” Comfort said. β€œI didn’t want to call Raji because I thought you were…” Comfort looked at Raji.

β€œYou thought she was with a man.”

β€œAre you okay though?”

β€œYes,” Salma replied.

β€œOkay. I just wanted to be sure you were fine. I should be going. The kids are still sleeping.”

β€œThank you, Commie.”

Salma walked her to the door. When she shut it, she faced Raji. β€œI had Maliq admitted at the hospital. He passed out due to the cruelty of the police. That was where I spent the night.”

β€œYou’re joking, right?”

β€œDid your irritating police cousin tell you that he was innocent? Alhaja Salimot’s teenage daughter was the one that stole from me. Her mother returned everything yesterday. We owe Maliq more than healthcare.”

β€œOf course, you owe him a lot more.”

β€œGo to hell, Raji.”

She started towards the stairs.

β€œSo, you and him are serious?”

Salma stopped and turned. It was just occurring to her that what she had with Maliq was a thing.

β€œYes. We’re serious. You’re still having an issue with that?”

β€œNo.”

β€œGood.”

β€œI’m just…jealous, I guess. I wish you’d defend my honor the way you did his.”

β€œThose days are gone, Raji.”

She continued up the stairs.

***

At thirty-five Toni didn’t have any particular birthday wish. She had fulfilled all her dreams, none of which included having a man in her life. Hence, she ignored when Leticia whispered in her ear that she should wish for a good husband as she blew the candles on her cake.

If she had considered Leticia’s suggestion, it would have been easy, but only if her candidate for marriage had been present for her birthday dinner. But he was not. Every other person that mattered in her life apart from her parents was there. Even her younger sister who had flown in from Port Harcourt for a wedding had shown up. Toni was let down by Andre’s absence. Both of them had planned for this day a year ago. He had wanted to fly her to Paris for the weekend. Not like she hadn’t been there before; it was going to be his special treat to her.

As she sat on the long table in the high-class restaurant where her dinner held, surrounded by those who meant the most to her, she reminisced on her last birthday and how Andre had taken her to Greece but she had stayed in all day because of a stomach bug that left her sick. He had worried over her like a mother over a sick child. When she ended up in the emergency room, he was there, holding her hand and telling her a story in French that was partly hilarious and partly annoying. That night, he lay on the hospital bed with her. It was his face she saw first thing in the morning peering into hers worriedly. She had thought it was the most inspiring sight to wake up to. Later that day when they left the hospital, he took her to see the sights to bring the color back to her face. They lounged about lazily, taking pictures and listening to the sea.

He presented her with a single cupcake that evening with a burning candle stuck in it because she couldn’t stand the sight of an entire cake. He asked her to make a wish.

β€œI don’t have a wish.”

β€œNone?” He gasped comically, making her laugh.

β€œNone.”

β€œNot even to get married to me?”

β€œNo.”

β€œThat’s sad.”

She laughed again and felt her lower lip crack.

β€œJust wish for something.”

β€œMust I?”

β€œYes. I don’t know who made the rules, but I think on birthdays, angels are there to make our wishes come true.”

β€œOkay. I wish for whatever you wish for us.”

She blew the candle. He gave a slow, silent laugh that made him sound like a movie villain.

β€œWhat’s funny?”

β€œYou did not just wish for what I constantly wish for us.”

β€œAnd what’s that?”

β€œThat I get you pregnant and put a ring on your finger.”

β€œGood Lord.”

β€œBut let it be as you wish. From my heart to yours to God’s ears.”

β€œAre you kidding me? I take back the wish.”

β€œYou can’t. Candle already blown.”

“I won’t get pregnant, Andre.”

“Should we make a bet? I get you pregnant immaculately.”

“What?” Toni laughed and AndreΒ leaned over and kissed her, ignoring her protest over how her mouth tasted like drugs.

β€œToni!”

Leticia’s voice sounded like it was coming from afar. Toni straightened up and found two burning candles before her. She looked ahead and saw that everyone on the table was staring.

β€œDid you just wander off into thinking about Andre right now?” Folarin asked and he got a round of laughter.

β€œGuilty,” Toni said, smiling, and blew the candles.

β€œDon’t worry, he’ll be here,” Raji assured. β€œI personally invited him.”

β€œMe too,” Christie said.

β€œAnd me.” Khanyi waved a hand.

β€œSame here,” Folarin added.

β€œLooks like we’re expecting four Andres,” Toni quipped, making her guests laugh more. It set the tone for the rest of the evening. But none of the Andres invited made an appearance. Toni settled for friendship, jokes, laughter, gifts and well-wishes. She saw each guest to the door and every one of them either had something comforting to say about Andre or had a calming hug to give her. She hated that they had somehow made the end of her special night about him. Still she understood that they simply cared. Christie alone had something different to tell her.

β€œThirty-five is a good age. Your mom would be proud. Keep slaying, sweetheart.”

Toni hugged her tightly. β€œHow are you coping with CJ?” she asked.

β€œWe’re getting by.”

β€œLily?”

β€œShe’s depressed mostly. I’m trying really hard to connect but it’s not working.”

β€œPace yourself. Don’t force it.”

β€œI’m more concerned about CJ. He’s too young to be a father.”

β€œHe’ll be fine.”

β€œAnd the shame of it…”

β€œShhh. It’s nobody’s business.”

β€œThank you, Toni.”

Christie walked up to Folarin who was waiting. He enwrapped her with his arm and they sauntered to the parking lot. Toni admired their relationship. They were that one couple she always looked up to. Despite what had happened to them, she saw that the love still burned. She wondered if she would ever have the guts to love anyone that way, to plunge her entire self into another human being without looking back now and then. Even after all these years, love still scared her.

She turned her attention to Leticia and Dapo. They were standing beside Leticia’s car. It had been five days since his great reveal. Leticia had gotten over the shock so quickly that Toni began to worry about her state of mind. Now, she was playing with a smile on her face as she interacted with Dapo.

β€œSis?” Dapo called, pulling away from her. Toni smiled at him. β€œGoodnight.”

Unlike Leticia, Toni’s anger at him still festered. But it was her birthday and she was in good spirits. She blew him a kiss as she made for Leticia’s car. Leticia came to her with a scarf.

β€œHave you guys reconciled?” Toni asked.

β€œHas he killed the baby he has with Daisy?”

β€œTisha?”

β€œNo, we’ve not reconciled. That’s by the way. Remember I told you that I had a surprise for you?”

β€œYeah?”

Leticia folded the scarf in her hands and placed it over Toni’s eyes.

β€œWhat are you doing?”

She went behind her to secure the scarf.

β€œTish?”

β€œRelax. I’m not going to sell you.”

β€œYou know I hate being blindfolded.”

β€œJust relax, birthday girl.”

Leticia held her hand and guided her to the backseat of the car.

β€œSit here like the queen you are.” Toni heard the door shut and soon another opened. β€œSit tight.”

β€œTish, if this whole thing you’re doing involves Andre, just drop me off now-now.”

β€œShut up and listen to some cool music while I ferry you to your surprise.”

Cool music, according to Leticia, was a playlist of all Rihanna’s songs.

β€œDo you listen to anything other than Rihanna?”

β€œRiri heals my broken heart.”

β€œI’m happy for you.”

And Leticia was inspired to sing along really loudly to Rihanna’s music while Toni sat behind, wishing she had an icepick to stick in her throat. Each time she tried to take the blindfold off, Leticia would screech and instruct her to keep her hands down.

β€œGreat. An hour has passed on this our surprise journey.”

β€œDon’t be silly, Toni. It’s been just about twelve minutes.”

β€œIt could be the whole day. And listening to you makes it feel like forever.”

β€œMy voice is sublime. I used to be a chorister back then. Remember?”

β€œUntil you fucked the choirmaster.”

β€œNo, he fucked me.”

β€œWhat difference does it make?”

β€œHe was the fucker and I was the fuckee. Huge difference.”

β€œSame difference. The fuckery was out of this world though.”

β€œDon’t remind me.”

β€œTish, just get back with Dapo and stop being weird.”

β€œYes, ma.”

But Leticia kept singing until the car came to a halt.

β€œCan I take off the blindfold now?”

β€œNo. Actually, this is the real blindfold moment.”

β€œThen why was I blindfolded the entire time?”

β€œI don’t know. But don’t take it off now.”

Toni waited until Leticia helped her out of the car. Leticia left her standing for a bit and returned to her. She hooked her arm in hers and tugged her forward.

β€œJust follow me carefully. You won’t fall.”

They stopped after a few steps and Toni heard a door open. Leticia guided her into a place that smelled of oranges and left her to stand on her own. Leticia untied the scarf.

β€œWe’re here. Ta-da!”

Toni blinked until her eyes came into clarity. They were in a small room that had long couches that leaned on three of the walls. The floor was covered in a fluffy black rug and the only other thing in the room was an air conditioner. There was no television. But there was a hidden sound system that began to play a Sam Smith song as if on cue.

β€œWhat’s this?” Toni demanded in a frown.

β€œOh sorry. Wrong room.”

β€œCome on, Tisha.”

Leticia took her hand and led her through a door that Toni hadn’t noticed. She brought her into a lounge where everyone she had just had dinner with and other friends were waiting in an atmosphere of hazy lighting and serene music. It took Toni a few seconds to realize that it was a surprise party. No one had screamed out the clichΓ© β€˜surprise!’ and this left her curious. But they blessed her with smiles as the DJ steered the party into full revelry mode.

Toni was snatched up by a friend and forced into a hug.

β€œHappy birthday, Toni.”

β€œThank you,” Toni answered. The friend let go and Leticia dragged her in for a squeeze.

β€œI know you said you didn’t want a party, let alone a surprise one. But I couldn’t help it, boo. You haven’t thrown a birthday party in a while. You deserve this. Happy thirty-fifth, bestie.”

Toni hugged her back. β€œYou know I can never stay mad at you. Thank you, Tish.”

Leticia freed herself from the embrace. β€œYou’ll want to see this.”

Leticia nodded at some guy who in turn nodded at the DJ. The music went down. A screen lit up and on it showed a video of Toni from ten years ago. It was her birthday but in her usual way she was spending it at home dressed in gym shorts and a bra, a cigarette in one hand and a glass of red wine in the other. Striking red eyes with long lashes looked into the camera.

β€œWhere I want to be in ten years?” she laughed, fluttering her lashes. β€œI want to be the boss of my own ad agency, I guess. I want to pursue my PhD too. I don’t know about getting married sha. I’m over men. So, yeah, CEO of an ad agency and my PhD. Let’s start from there.”

Party guests applauded.

β€œHappy birthday, Toni!” Leticia’s voice came from behind the camera. The video cut to a black screen on which was written: To Antonia Arinola Braithwaite…Just because you’re phenomenal.

Videos and images of Toni were displayed, gathered from friends and colleagues. Toni laughed through most of them until short clips that were gotten specifically from Andre came on. Toni felt her eyes water.

β€œIs he here?” she asked Leticia.

β€œNo. Watch.”

Andre’s face appeared on the screen at the end of his videos. He seemed to be seated in his office. A spotless white shirt, folded at the sleeves, hugged his torso. He scratched his beard and smiled at her.

β€œMa chatte, I know you didn’t want this. But this is me making up for not taking you to Paris as promised. You deserve to have fun once in a while. Bon anniversaire.”

He winked, the video ended. The music came back on. For a stretch of two hours, Toni was given the time of her life with friends. She danced like she was sixteen again, drank like she had no care in the world. Turned out there was a party host and he entertained with games and giveaways. The party came to a point where ten bottles of champagne were auctioned to raise money for a child that needed an open-heart surgery. The bottles were then emptied on Toni as she shrieked until she lost her voice. Subsequently, Leticia dragged her away from the crowd, soaking wet.

β€œAre you guys kidding me?” Toni licked her lips, giggling. β€œI don’t even have a spare dress.”

β€œHasn’t it yet occurred to you that I got you covered? Shut up and follow me joor.”

Leticia took her through a different exit that led them up a flight of stairs. They came out to a hallway and it was only then Toni realized they were in a hotel. They entered an elevator. Leticia pressed a button with β€˜P’ written on it and they rode up to the last floor. When the door parted, another door was facing the elevator on which was scrawled Penthouse Suite.

β€œAndre did all this?” Toni asked.

β€œYes.”

β€œSo, where is he?”

β€œI have no idea.”

Leticia unlocked the door to the suite and they got in. Posh settings welcomed them. Toni followed Leticia to the master bedroom. Sprawled on the bed was a dress.

β€œHe bought that too?”

β€œYeah.” Leticia unzipped the dress Toni had on. She also took off Toni’s wig.

β€œIt’s just occurring to me why you kept insisting that I shouldn’t make my hair and you bought me this wig instead. You knew I’d be soaked with champagne. You had this perfectly planned.”

β€œStop analyzing and shower jare. Enter.” Leticia pointed at the bathroom. Toni obeyed. She stripped off her underwear and got into the shower. She was soon done and stepped out to wrap herself in a towel. She realized Leticia was gone when she walked back to the bedroom; but a distinct male fragrance slowed her movement. She followed her sense of smell to the living room and found Andre leaning on a sofa.

β€œHappy birthday, Ma Chatte.”

Silence was her response. Calm eyes regarded him. On his face was that composed, overconfident expression she had seen on him the first time they met. It struck nostalgia in her. She was filled with a sudden overpowering desire to kiss him.

But her feet remained rooted to the floor.

β€œI was asked to wish for something when I was about to blow my birthday cake earlier. Crazy thing, I wished that I could see you tonight. And somehow, you’re here.”

β€œWishes still come true, Tone.”

β€œThank you for a great birthday party.”

β€œYou deserve it.”

β€œSo how does it work? You throw an expensive party for me, I show gratitude by parting my legs for you and then we’re back to the way we used to be?”

Andre smiled. β€œIs that how you want it?”

β€œI just want to know what to expect next.”

Andre dashed towards her so fast she missed a breath. She lifted her eyes up at him, waiting for the kiss she had wanted so badly in recent times. But Andre put his arms around her in a sheltered hug.

β€œI can’t start telling you how much I’ve missed you, Tone.”

With her ear pressed to his chest, his words seemed like they were being delivered straight to her soul. The familiarity of his touch and sturdy beating of his heart took her to a place of syrupy memories. And for no convincing reason, Toni felt her eyes betray her with tears. She tried to rein her heart in but it handed her over to Andre’s affection. He stroked her back gently.

β€œI’m so sorry, ma chatte. I was selfish and stupid.”

β€œI’m sorry I shut you out.”

β€œI deserved it. I failed to see that the kids meant so much to you, that they were changing you as you were changing them. If only I had been patient…”

β€œLet’s stop talking about the past, please.” She sniffled. β€œYou’re here, I’m here… Do you still want to take me to Paris?”

He pulled back and lifted her chin. β€œIsn’t it too late to catch a flight?”

Toni had a certain twinkle in her wet eyes. β€œLearn to keep your promises, Frenchman.”

He undid her towel with one tug, sending it to the floor.

β€œArinola…” he whirred, eyes worshipping her body. β€œYou know I can’t cheat on my girlfriend.”

β€œIt’s not cheating if she doesn’t drive you crazy like I do.”

Andre came down on Toni’s lips with a soft kiss that bore more of his breath than his taste. But she didn’t break contact. Her hands reached for his neck to pull him closer. They kissed hungrily, with sighs and feverish urgency.

β€œIt’s not cheating if she would be dumped tomorrow,” Andre said.

Toni giggled and then shrieked as he suddenly picked her off the floor and put her across his shoulder.

β€œFabrice!” she yelled, laughing. He took her to the bedroom and dumped her on the bed. And then he lay over her.

β€œMarry me, Arinola. Have my babies. Let’s build our lives together.”

Toni held his face, lost in his eyes. Maybe it was the fact that she was slightly intoxicated, or it might have been that she was too excited to see him that she didn’t think her answer through. But she gave him a quick reply that came in the likes of a gratifying moan, a bop of her head and a word that sounded much like β€˜yes’.

Andre grinned and sent his lips on a journey to her chatte.

Β©Sally@moskedapages

Β Image: @livinglifesynco

Sally

Author. Screenwriter. Blogger

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43 Comments

  1. Oluwakemi says:

    Waoh!
    Merry Christmas Darling Sally, thank you for adding spice to my year.
    God bless you and yours and the entire fans of Moskedapages.

  2. Damilola says:

    Merry Christmas Sally. Thank You For always making my day

  3. Ola says:

    Merry Christmas Sally

  4. Oluwakemi says:

    Reading this again and I am just so happy Andre and Toni are back and I hope it’s for good this time, it Is just that Ms. Sally can’t be trusted.
    Thank God for Maliq’s innocence o

    1. Sandra says:

      I am seeing Sally making Andre’s girlfriend pregnant and then Toni will get angry and break up again…sigh

      1. Kemi says:

        i hope not o

  5. Nwanne says:

    Sigh…… Merry Christmas and a wonderful year ahead Sally

  6. Antonia says:

    Merry Christmas Sally, have been waiting for this all day, thank you for posting. So happy for my namesake and Andre.

  7. abiba says:

    Nice one Sally Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance

  8. ejibabe says:

    Love sweet sha especially with d right person.so happy for Toni and her french man Andre. U just made my Christmas sweet, it has been boring all day. Grazie

  9. Zeeniey says:

    Damn! One great episode

  10. Anjie says:

    Merry Christmas Sally.
    I just love love. I smiled all through. I hope toni and Andre stay together.

  11. slimshawty says:

    Merry Christmas Sally!!! Thank God Andre&Tone has make up, pls dnt let dem v any issues again, I think Toni too deserves sm sunshine in her life too

  12. Ejiro says:

    Merry Christmas Sally,

    Finally!!!!!!! I’m happy my favourite couples are back together but I’m sad that this means Dear High Mistress is about to end.

    Thanks Sally, God bless you.

  13. Patience Bassey says:

    Awwww! I love this. Merry Christmas!

  14. Adeola gem says:

    Merry Christmas Ms Sally. May God’s blessings and favor continue to be sure on you and yours this Christmas and forever. Ameen.

    I thought as much when I didn’t sight you anywhere. Yeah! Nepa issa bitch n petrol is gold now?
    I do hope you are better now.
    Thank you for this episode. Interesting read as usual. Well done sis

  15. Mariam says:

    Merry Christmas Sally! Hmmmmnnn Andre and Toni, that was very quick. I wish it was Maliq that stole that jewelry sha, I don’t know why I like Raji………

  16. Pacesetter says:

    Merry Christmas

  17. Beautiful episode, just beautiful ❀❀❀finally the moment I’ve waited for arrived.

  18. Datoks says:

    Yah, they are back together.. Merry christmas Sally .

  19. Sandra says:

    Merry Christmas Sally, and wishing u a most rewarding year ahead. Thanks a million for the read, great job?

  20. gift says:

    awwwww,, what will be will be, toni and andre are meant for each other, thanks sally

  21. Nykky says:

    Merry Christmas to you and yours Sally thanks for the update.

  22. Bimpe says:

    Merry Christmas Sally and thank you for lighting up my 2017..may God give you joy on everyside.

  23. Simplygold says:

    Merry Christmas Sally, beautifully woven together as usual!

  24. Fdee says:

    Merry Christmas Mrs. Sally
    Thanks for the episode
    Tones and Andre…. ? ???

  25. girl says:

    Dear Sally,
    They joy you bring to this girl’s heart is indescribable really.
    I refreshed everyhour I was awake since the 22nf for an update.
    I’m glad it came today, cause this is absolutely the best Christmas gift ever.
    I had a stupidly goofy grin on my face when Andre and Toni got back together.
    Thank you Boo for being amazingly you.
    Merry Christmas.

  26. Aum says:

    Merry Christmas

  27. Chinonso Wyre says:

    Waooo. Merry xmas Sally

  28. mide says:

    Merry Xmas sally. Wish u great health

  29. Etoya says:

    Great job as usual. Team #tondre# Thank you Sally.

    Merry Christmas to you

  30. Ifeanyi Onochie says:

    Thanks Sally. The three stories over Christmas were totally worth it. I knew Andre wouldn’t miss the event and that Tish wouldn’t make it so easy for Tobi to have her wish. Nice ending. Am I safe to wonder when the next clog in the wheel of their romance will be? Because I think those two people can’t do without a little friction in their relationship.

  31. Cheyi says:

    Merry Christmas to you and yours! Thanks for this…..

  32. Thanks Sally, it was an interesting read. Compliment of the season

  33. Bimz says:

    Happy holidays Salz. Thank you for the great episodes. You never fail to deliver.
    Me oooo, I sha don’t want Salma and Maliq together at alllllllll!!!! I wish he were the thief.
    So happy for Andre and Tonia. Friends like Leticia are diamonds.
    Thanks again Salz

  34. Turban Girl says:

    Haaaa, Falila alakoba!!! I am glad everyone came out smelling like roses, Maliq and Raji, no thief, no evil set up, just Falila.
    Happy 35th Arinola!!! I hope this reconciliation lasts forever.
    Happy Holidays Sally!!!

  35. Amina says:

    Raji is that asshole that a girl just loves for no reason. I knew he wouldn’t stoop so low. Every one has an acquaintance like Alhaja.
    Salm and Malik…Rihanna’s love in a hopeless place song is for you.
    Good to see Commie.
    And Yesssssssss Tondre are back and I’m not even scared of them parting anymore because they have finally seen what living without each other is like. If Andre’s rebound refuses to let go, na she go suffer.
    Tish is just that friend that you can’t imagine not having.
    Sal, please me I’m realm curious about what happens to Ruby.
    Khanyi should find love too o abeg. Thank you Sal and compliments of the season. We love you.

  36. Nyah says:

    I hope you had a great Christmas Sally. Thanks you for this x

  37. Zinnie says:

    Wow!
    This is mind blowing. Thanks Sally

  38. Iyanuoluwa says:

    Omg!!!! Such an exciting episode ?? thank you Aunt Sally ?❀️ Merry Christmas my love to the family ?

  39. Knonye says:

    Thanks Sal. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the marathon episodes

  40. Seye says:

    I don’t know if I dropped my comment the last time out. The wicked people of the world sucked my data as I was reading.
    Glad that Malik was finally exonerated.
    Shebi Toni and Andre will sha quit their drama now. They should have learnt a few lessons. Sha don’t lemme stall on this, I’m going to read the 16th .
    Big ups Sally. Thank you *wheels away to read episode 16*

  41. Damilola Akin says:

    Happy new year maama

    Thank you for letting us into your beautiful mind

Comments are closed.